NewzIntel.com

Category: Environment

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ19: Traffic incidents involving animals

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ19: Traffic incidents involving animals 
    Question:
     
         Under the Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374), the driver of a vehicle shall stop if an accident involving that vehicle occurs whereby damage is caused to animals not in the vehicle, and the Government included cats and dogs in the definition of “animal” under the Ordinance in 2021. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the following information in respect of traffic accidents involving vehicles hitting animals in each of the past five years: (i) the number of animals being hit (set out in the table below a breakdown by the type of animals (i.e. (a) horses, (b) cattle, (c) ass, (d) mules, (e) ‍sheep, (f) pigs, (g) goats, (h) cats and (i) dogs)), (ii) the number of reports received by the Government on such accidents, and (iii) ‍among these accidents, the number and percentage of cases involving hit-and-run drivers, (iv) the number of such accidents investigated by the Government under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), and (v) among them, the number of prosecutions instituted;
     

    Year(2) of the current handling procedures adopted by the government departments concerned upon receipt of cases of animals being hit by vehicles; the number of such cases in which animal carcasses were handled directly by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department in each of the past five years, and their percentage in the total number of cases involving animals being hit by vehicles;
     
    (3) as there are views that the deterrent effect of the existing legislation on accidents involving vehicles hitting animals is inadequate, whether the authorities will introduce fixed penalty or incorporate a demerit point system; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (4) whether the Government will allocate additional resources to assist in rescuing animals hit and injured by vehicles; and
     
    (5) whether the Government will review the legislation to include more local wild animals (including but not limited to monkeys and wild pigs) in the definition of “animal” under Cap. 374; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374) (the Ordinance) provides that the driver of a vehicle shall stop if an accident involving that vehicle occurs whereby damage is caused to specified animals not in the vehicle. Drivers are also required to provide particulars, including name and address, to any police officer or any person having reasonable grounds for requiring the information. Otherwise, the driver must report the accident to the Police as soon as possible and in any case no later than 24 hours after the accident. The Government amended the definition of specified animals under the Ordinance on November 7, 2021 to include cats and dogs. Currently, specified animals include horse, cattle, ass, mule, sheep, pig, goat, cat and dog.
     
    Having consulted the Transport and Logistics Bureau and the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF), the reply to the question from the Hon Chan Hak-kan is as follows:
     
    (1) In the past five years, the HKPF has received a total of 933 reports of vehicle hitting the specified animals (details set out at the Table below), 147 of them involved driver failing to stop after hitting the animals. The HKPF does not maintain breakdown of statistics by the type of animals, cases investigated under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), and the prosecution number.
     

    Year(as at April 30) 
    For the drivers involved, if such person did not stop after the accident, or provide particulars to police officers or report to the Police in accordance with the requirements of the Ordinance, the HKPF will investigate and follow up according to the established mechanism; and will instigate prosecution if there is sufficient evidence.
     
    As regards the disposal of animal carcasses, upon receipt of referrals from departments or reports from the public, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) will arrange for contractors to collect animal carcasses at the scene and deliver them to the landfills of the Environmental Protection Department for disposal. The FEHD does not maintain a breakdown of animal carcasses collected in traffic accidents.
     
    (3) Under the Ordinance, a driver failing to stop upon a relevant accident is liable to a fine at level 3 ($10,000) and imprisonment for 12 months, whereas failing to provide particulars and report to the Police according to the requirements of the Ordinance is liable to a fine at level 4 ($25,000) and imprisonment for six months. In general, enforcement by fixed penalty notices is targeted at cases which are simple, straightforward, clear-cut and capable of being easily established, but whether a driver has complied with the Ordinance requires further investigation of the Police, hence it is more appropriate to prosecute by issuing summonses. As regards demerit point system, considering the existing penalties have a certain deterrent effect, we do not intend to include the above offences in demerit point system at this stage, but will timely review them as necessary.
     
    (5) The Ordinance requires drivers to stop if they hit a specified animal, with the intent of facilitating livestock owners to seek compensation from the drivers concerned for the loss incurred. The Government’s inclusion of cats and dogs as specified animals under the Ordinance in 2021 aimed to enable cats and dogs injured in traffic accidents to receive timely treatment. As regards whether other wild animals will be included, making reference to the legislation in some overseas jurisdictions, similar stopping and reporting requirements generally only cover animals that are commonly kept by people but not wild animals. In fact, a number of stakeholders raised at the public consultation for amending the Ordinance in 2021 that if monkeys and wild pigs are to be included as specified animals, the drivers may suddenly stop their vehicles and lead to road traffic safety problems. The Government will closely monitor the implementation of the Ordinance and strive to strike a balance between safeguarding animal welfare and the safety of road users, and will timely review whether there is room to further enhance the Ordinance.
    Issued at HKT 11:45

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: New documentary exposes recycling fallacy and  health impacts of plastic pollution on Kenya’s waste workers

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Link to documentary

    NAIROBI, May 26th, 2025 – Greenpeace Africa has released  ‘ Dumped: A Waste Picker’s Story’, a powerful 18-minute documentary that reveals the harsh reality faced by waste pickers at Nairobi’s notorious Dandora dumpsite while challenging the plastic industry’s recycling narrative.

    The documentary follows Joyce, one of thousands of waste pickers who sort through mountains of plastic waste daily at the dumpsite. Despite working tirelessly to make a living, Joyce suffers from respiratory infections, requiring monthly medical treatment. Her doctor has explicitly linked her deteriorating health to the toxic fumes from burning plastics and pollution at her workplace.

    “What we’re witnessing at Dandora is a public health emergency masked as a waste management solution,” said Gerance Mutwol, Plastics Campaigner at Greenpeace Africa. “Joyce’s story represents thousands of waste pickers across Africa who sacrifice their health daily while the plastic industry uses their labor to greenwash its continued production of single-use plastics. These workers earn pennies while suffering from chronic respiratory diseases, skin conditions, and other serious ailments directly linked to toxic plastic exposure.”

    The documentary dismantles the plastic industry’s narrative that recycling can solve the plastic pollution crisis. In reality, only 9% of all plastic waste ever produced globally has been recycled, with the rest accumulating in landfills, dumpsites, and the natural environment.

    “The recycling myth has been perpetuated by the plastics industry to shift responsibility away from producers and onto consumers and waste workers,” explained Mutwol, “Our investigation reveals that most single-use plastics are not collected by waste pickers. These plastics often end up being burned in open air, releasing toxic chemicals that harm both waste pickers and surrounding communities. The truth is that managing waste is not enough to solve the crisis as long as plastic production continues to increase exponentially.”

    The film documents how low-value plastics like sachets, thin bags, and multilayered packaging have flooded African markets, creating an insurmountable waste management challenge while providing minimal economic benefit to waste pickers.

    Gisore Nyabuti, Secretary General of the Waste Pickers Association, emphasised the need for systemic change: “Our members work in dangerous conditions with little protection or recognition. We need solutions that don’t sacrifice our health and environment. We support a transition to refill and reuse systems that would create safer, more dignified jobs while eliminating the toxic burden of single-use plastics on our communities.”

    The documentary concludes that the only transformative solution to the plastic crisis is the widespread implementation of refill and reuse systems, highlighting successful models already operating in Kenya that demonstrate viable alternatives to the throwaway culture.

    “Dumped: A Waste Picker’s Story” will be launched in 5 countries and is available for online viewing on YouTube.

    Contacts:

    Ferdinand Omondi, Communication and Story Manager, [email protected]

    Gerance Mutwol, Plastics campaigner, [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana’s Environment Minister to Champion Innovation, Sustainability at Mining in Motion 2025

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ACCRA, Ghana, May 28, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Mining in Motion Summit (MininginMotionSummit.com) is pleased to announce the participation of Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Ghana’s Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, as a speaker. Hon. Muhammed’s involvement underscores the government’s commitment to environmentally responsible mining, technological innovation and scientific advancement in the extractive sector. 

    As the head of the ministry leading innovation and sustainability, Hon. Muhammed is spearheading initiatives to align mining operations with national development goals and environmental stewardship. His efforts include forging partnerships with global public and private stakeholders to implement science-based solutions and sustainable practices. In April 2025, the Minister met with Park Kyongsig, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea (apo-opa.co/45r33JW) to Ghana, to explore bilateral cooperation on climate change and environmental protection. Their discussions centered on leveraging Korean expertise to restore water bodies impacted by illegal mining and address the root causes of environmental degradation. 

    In February 2025, Hon. Muhammed reiterated the government’s commitment (apo-opa.co/4dV4wKZ) to leveraging local innovation as a driver of economic growth, particularly within key industries like mining, which continues to play a vital role in Ghana’s economy. Gold exports reached $11.6 billion in 2024, accounting for 57% of the country’s total export revenue, highlighting the sector’s significance in national development. In line with modernization efforts, the government, through the Minerals Commission of Ghana (apo-opa.co/3H8AM0P), is equipping the next generation of workers with skills in emerging technologies such as drones, which are being deployed to support automation and improve sector monitoring. 

    Under the World Bank-funded Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project (apo-opa.co/4kHR9Qr), the country is actively addressing land degradation and promoting sustainable practices among artisanal and small-scale miners, ensuring mining sector contribution to economic growth and long-term environmental and social sustainability. 

    At Mining in Motion, Hon. Muhammed will engage with key stakeholders from the mining industry, academia and civil society to exchange insights on policy, innovation and the future of mineral resource governance in Ghana. 

    The summit, led by the Ashanti Green Initiative under the leadership of Oheneba Kwaku Duah, Prince of the Ashanti Kingdom, is hosted in partnership with the World Bank and the World Gold Council. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public urged to report suspected waste crime as new heatmaps published

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Public urged to report suspected waste crime as new heatmaps published

    New maps published showing nearly 17,000 reports of waste crime across England in 2023 and 2024, demonstrating offending is rife

    Amid a government clampdown on rogue waste operators to clean up Britain’s streets, the Environment Agency has today (Wednesday 28 May) published new heatmaps showing the densest areas of waste crime reports in England.   

    Across England, 16,773 reports of suspected waste crime were submitted from 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2024. The maps show the highest number of reports were concentrated in the West Midlands (2,008 reports), Yorkshire (1,791 reports) and East Anglia (1,678 reports). 

    With the data demonstrating that criminals blighting towns, cities and countryside are active across the country, the Environment Agency is urging the public to report more suspected offending as it looks to shut rogue operators out of the waste industry for good. 

    Waste criminals cost the economy an estimated £1 billion every year. Estimates suggest a staggering 34,000 million tonnes of waste is illegally managed annually, enough to fill Wembley Stadium 30 times over or 4 million skips – but the true scale of offending is likely far greater due to under-reporting of incidents. 

    Under their Plan for Change, the government has confirmed rogue operators caught transporting and dealing with waste illegally will face up to five years in prison under new legislation. Longer prison sentences for rogue waste operators and new powers for councils to crush vehicles involved in waste crime will act as a strong deterrent and ensure the full force of the law comes down hard on those trashing the nation’s communities. 

    Emma Viner, Enforcement & Investigations Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

    Waste crime is toxic. Criminals steal business from legitimate operators, trash local communities, harm the environment, and avoid paying taxes which fund public services. 

    As a nation, we must stand united against criminals, working together to stop them. We can all play our part by taking steps to keep waste away from criminals in the first place and reporting any suspected wrongdoing.

    Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said:

    Through our Plan for Change, this government will crack down on the waste cowboys, seize and crush fly-tippers’ vans, and clean up Britain. 

    We will not stand idly by while organised crime groups profit from an avalanche of rubbish burying our communities and undercutting legitimate business.

    The Environment Agency’s National Waste Crime Survey shows just 25% of all waste crime incidents are thought to be reported. Every piece of information the Environment Agency receives is crucial in helping them to bring offenders to justice. The earlier an incident is reported to the regulator, the quicker it can deal with it and prevent an escalation. 

    To do so, the public can submit reports via the Environment Agency’s 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or to Crimestoppers via their website or by calling 0800 555 111, which is always 100% anonymous. 

    To prevent criminals getting their hands on waste in the first place, the public is urged to use only waste carriers listed on the public register to take away their rubbish. 

    Jacob Hayler, Executive Director of the Environmental Services Association, said:

    Waste crime harms the environment, damages communities and threatens legitimate waste services.  

    As citizens, we each have a duty of care, not only to stop our waste from falling into the wrong hands, but to report suspected illegal handling and dumping of waste when we see it – helping the regulatory authorities to catch and punish those responsible.

    Dan Cooke, Director of Policy, Communications and External Affairs at CIWM, said: 

    Waste crime at all levels continue to cause misery and anxiety to people and communities across the UK. Importantly, it also restricts the opportunities for local economies to thrive, as well as often causing real environmental harm.  

    We’ll continue to work with CIWM members, local authorities, and regulators to promote best practice and deploy all available resources in the ongoing pursuit of high-quality environments enabling thriving local economies for businesses and communities.

    The publication of the heatmaps comes amid the Environment Agency’s ongoing #WasteCrimeWednesday social media campaign, which targets the public, the waste industry, and waste criminals themselves as the regulator looks to stop waste crime for good. 

    As the environmental regulator for waste businesses operating in England, the Environment Agency uses an intelligence-based approach with its partners to bring waste criminals to justice through tough enforcement action and prosecutions. Its investigations helped secure numerous convictions in relation to waste crime in 2023 and 2024.

    Case studies

    West Midlands

    • In September 2023, a Worcestershire-based director and his company were ordered to pay nearly £110,000 following a case brought by the Environment Agency for the unlawful storage, treatment and disposal of waste without an environmental permit. Environment Agency officers found evidence the G R Shorthouse Ltd site in Hopton Wafers was being used for the storage of scrap metal, burning of wood waste, and unauthorised use of construction and demolition waste, offending described by the sentencing judge as an intentional and flagrant breach of the law aggravated by previous convictions and financial motivation. 
    • In March 2025, a Droitwich-based business was made to pay more than £52,000 after failing to comply with a demand for information about the materials they accepted. The information was required from Tetron Welbeck Limited Liability Partnership to allow the Environment Agency to conduct an audit of the site to ensure waste within the correct category was being accepted. 

    Yorkshire 

    • Following a successful prosecution by the Environment Agency, Stuart Bedford was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment for running waste operations in Bradford and Doncaster without the required environmental permit and keeping waste at the sites in a manner likely to pollute the environment or harm human health, while Vicky Bedford was sentenced to a 12-month community order and 15 days rehabilitation activity requirement for her involvement. 
    • Elsewhere, in June 2023, an East Yorkshire man received a suspended sentence and was ordered to pay £2,000 in compensation and costs, after illegally storing hazardous waste and running an illegal waste site in Aldbrough. An investigation by the Environment Agency found Stephen Coates was storing abandoned corroding chemical drums, intermediate bulk containers, shipping containers, old tyres and flooring materials appearing to contain asbestos on his land next to a residential house during a five-period from March 2017 to March 2022. 

    East Anglia

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council launches Westminster Climate Fund to help cut emissions  | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council is launching the latest Westminster Climate Fund, a grant scheme supporting local businesses, cultural institutions, and community organisations to reduce their carbon emissions and generate clean energy.

    Opening for applications today, the fund will support projects that empower communities and businesses to build a sustainable and resilient environment in Westminster, which fosters a healthier and greener way of life.

    The council aims to hold two funding rounds in 2025/26, with circa £6 million available in total.

    Grants will focus on key areas including city-wide decarbonisation, community-led energy projects, and behaviour change programmes promoting greener living. 

    This funding is collected through the council’s carbon offsetting policy, as part of our city plan. Last year, the council increased its carbon price as part of the retrofit first policy, to encourage new buildings that use little or no operational carbon in their operations.

    To date, the fund has supported projects that deliver carbon emissions reductions across Westminster. These include a grant of £120,000 to install solar panels on Soho Hospital, as well as a grant of over £250,000 to install LED lighting across St Marylebone School. 

    Cllr Ryan Jude, Cabinet for Climate Action, Ecology, Culture and Air Quality said:  

    This funding represents a major opportunity for Westminster organisations to save money, reduce their carbon emissions, and play a role in creating a sustainable future.  

    “Our net-zero target shows how serious the council is, but I hope we can build on initiatives like the sustainable city charter to bring organisations big and small along with us on this journey. “ 

    Applications will open on 28th May and will close on 18th July. More information about the fund and application criteria can be found on the council’s website:  Westminster Climate Fund | Westminster City Council

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE and ESCAP Convene Regional Stakeholder Consultations on Energy Connectivity in Central Asia

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    As part of the joint Programme on Energy Connectivity in Central Asia and the Caucasus, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) hosted regional stakeholder consultations in Astana, Kazakhstan, to explore pathways for financing enhanced energy connectivity in Central Asia. 

    Held in a hybrid format on the margins of the Astana International Forum (AIF), the consultations gathered more than 50 policymakers and energy experts from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan to discuss achievements made to date within the programme and to examine strategies for strengthening regional energy integration, improving system resilience, and advancing low-carbon transitions. It featured discussions on financing cross-border infrastructure, implications of fossil fuel subsidies and carbon pricing, the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and the impact of water availability on energy transition in Central Asia. 

    Preliminary programme findings suggest that improved energy connectivity in the region could yield up to USD 1.4 billion in annual electricity production savings and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 3% per year by 2050.  

    “As emphasized by ESCAP’s Regional Road Map on Power System Connectivity, regional energy connectivity with a focus on power grids is key strategy for advancing energy sustainability and security” emphasised Hongpeng Liu, Director of Energy Division ESCAP.   

    “Deeper integration of energy systems has clear economic and environmental benefits for Central Asian countries. Add to this a matter of energy security and greater opportunities for economic growth – and you will get an important piece of the energy transition puzzle which we will encourage our member States to adopt in their national and regional development strategies focusing on unlocking investments for renewables and cross-border infrastructure,” says Dario Liguti, Director of the UNECE Sustainable Energy Division. 

    The event built on two ongoing projects under the UN Development Account and with the support of the GIZ on behalf of the German Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV). This joint UNECE-ESCAP initiative forms part of broader efforts under the cross-Regional Commissions’ work to enhance energy security and resilience through regional integration, technical cooperation, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £30M Boost for Farmers Leading the Way in Nature Restoration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £30M Boost for Farmers Leading the Way in Nature Restoration

    Thousands of farmers will get a payment boost for restoring habitats and protecting landscapes.

    Thousands of farmers will benefit from a £30 million boost to payments received for nature-friendly farming practices under the Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) scheme. This uplift recognises and rewards the vital role farmers play in restoring habitats and protecting England’s iconic landscapes. 

    From 1 January 2025, payment rates for 157 HLS options will rise, rewarding farmers already delivering for nature – particularly in uplands and other sensitive areas where they protect rare species, restore habitats, and maintain traditional countryside features.

    Farming Minister, Daniel Zeichner said: 

    Farmers are the backbone of our countryside, and they’re leading the charge to restore nature. 

    This £30 million uplift in HLS payments recognises their essential role in protecting our environment – work that’s crucial for long-term food security, boosting productivity, and tackling climate change. 

    By backing them with fairer rewards, we’re investing in a stronger and more sustainable future for British farming, helping to drive growth in rural communities as part of our Plan for Change.

    Following the Environment Secretary, Steve Reed’s, pledge at the NFU Conference, this funding brings the HLS payment rates closer to those offered under our Environmental Land Management schemes. 

    This builds on a record £5 billion investment into farming, as well as the appointment of former NFU President Baroness Minette Batters to recommend new reforms to boost farmers profits. 

    We also have a record number of farmers enrolled in farming schemes, with more money being paid to farms than ever before. 

    Payments will be automatically increased, landing from December 2025.The government is committed to targeting public funds wisely, making farming more profitable and sustainable for decades to come as we deliver on the Plan for Change.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council issues information on changes to Building Control Regulations

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council issues information on changes to Building Control Regulations

    28 May 2025

    Council advises that anyone involved in the Construction Industry should note that an update in Building Control regulations from the Department of Finance has now come into effect, since May 6th.

    The updates and two new regulations have been added to the Building Regulations (NI) 2012 legislation in Part E. Regulation 37A relates to the provision of fire safety information while Regulation 37B relates to Automatic fire suppression systems.

    Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Director of Environment and Regeneration, Karen Phillips, said all building professionals should be aware of the changes. “I would really encourage contractors, architects and other professionals involved in the building industry to take time to familiarise themselves with the changes introduced by the Department, particularly as they relate to Fire safety,” she stressed.

    “Neglecting to introduce any recommended changes to current practice could mean a breach of the relevant regulatory requirements or result in causing risk or injury. If anyone has any questions about the changes they can contact a member of Council’s Building Control team for further information.”

    Further details on these changes can be found on Council’s website at www.derrystrabane.com/services/building-control/recent-changes

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Make sure you’re ‘scam aware’ this summer

    Source: City of York

    Published Tuesday, 27 May 2025

    Council leaders are warning residents to be wary of doorstop sellers, and potential scams over the coming months.

    With the weather improving we’re likely to see an increase in doorstep selling during the summer. Doorstop selling refers to someone who visits properties to sell goods or services in the home, or on the doorstep. These can include salespeople visiting homes offering a range of services, from garden makeovers to driveway repairs, double glazing and more.

    These sellers can sometimes offer a convenient option, and home visits from sales teams can be a technique used by many business. However, doorstop selling also comes with some risks, including people being pressured to buy goods or services they don’t want, being sold things for much more than their value, or paying for goods or services that never appear.

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for the Environment at City of York Council, said:

    Sadly, each year some residents are pressured into schemes or purchases by doorstop sellers and end up in difficult situations.

    “Our teams work very hard to try and keep the residents of York safe from scams or rogue traders, but we always encourage residents to be cautious, check for third party recommendations and take their time deciding on any major projects or works they’re planning.”

    To help residents avoid any issues, City of York Council are sharing some top tips to help make sure you’re buying from legitimate businesses, and ways to keep yourself safe. These include:

    • Be confident – if you don’t want to buy goods or services, you have every right to say no, ask for more time to think about it, shop around and get other quotes or discuss the purchase with someone else
    • Check the facts – any reputable business should be happy to provide you with all their details. Try to think about what you know about them, do you know about their training and experience, have they given you all the information you need for a quote, do you understand the rights and obligations of any contracts and are they offering any kind of warranty?
    • Be cautious – it’s sensible to shop around for any projects you might want doing, getting multiple quotes, talking to other people who’ve had the same work done and taking your time makes you a smart customer. Don’t forget, if something sounds too good (or too cheap) to be true, it probably is.

    Residents are also being reminded of their legal rights when it comes to doorstop selling. In most situations if you sign a contract worth more than £42 with a trader in your house, you usually have 14 days to change your mind and cancel, providing the right to cancel is given to your in writing.

    Different contracts will have different terms and conditions but some include ‘cooling off periods’ and cancellation fees. If you do want to change your mind and cancel a project, you should get in touch with the trader as soon as possible, and try to keep a copy of the cancelation in writing as proof. This could include emails, or even recorded delivery or proof of postage.

    Anyone looking for more advice on their rights, or to report a trader to trading standards, can contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 2231133, or by visiting www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scamsadvice.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Towards a Green Future: GUU Representatives Visit the NEVA Waste Processing Complex

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On May 27, representatives of the State University of Management visited the NEVA waste processing complex, the most modern complex in the Moscow region, equipped with the latest equipment and technologies that meet high international standards.

    Today, 100% of ordinary household waste ends up at KPO NEVA, more than 20% of the total flow is sent for recycling and turns into glass and plastic bottles, sports uniforms, school notebooks, cardboard boxes, as well as pipes, paving slabs and other building materials. Organic waste is converted here into safe technological soil for construction and road works, and another 25% goes to the production of modern RDF fuel.

    The general director of the EcoLine Group, the chairperson of the Commission on Utilization of the Council of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation for the Development of the Circular Economy and Ecology Elena Vishnyakova conducted a sightseeing tour for the guests. The representatives of the State Unitary Enterprise visited the automated waste sorting complex, where the components of secondary raw materials are selected, and the composting area, designed for processing organic fractions into technosoil or compost that does not pose a danger to the environment.

    At the end of the excursion, a working meeting was held with the participation of the Deputy Minister for Territory Maintenance and State Housing Supervision of the Moscow Region Svetlana Vikulova to discuss the interaction of the State University of Management and the Ministry on issues of optimization and improvement of processes at waste processing plants. On behalf of the university, the following took part in the discussion of areas of further cooperation: Vice-Rector for Research Maria Karelina, Chief Researcher of the State University of Management Alexey Terentyev, Deputy Director of the Center for Technology Management in Bioengineering Alexey Zaitsev and Researcher of the Research Institute of Public Policy and Management of Industrial Economy Alexey Akulov. The parties discussed issues related to the logistics component of the process of disposal of household waste and outlined promising environmental projects for the secondary processing of waste generated as a result of the life activities of the population.

    Let us recall that in 2024, specialists from the State University of Management developed a Methodology for assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of the activities of heads of management organizations in the field of housing and communal services in the Moscow Region, and the head of the Department for the Coordination of Scientific Research of the State University of Management, Maxim Pletnev, joined the working group of the Public Council for the Maintenance of Territories of Apartment Buildings in the Moscow Region.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Promoting traditional customs and cultural activities

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ6: Promoting traditional customs and cultural activities 
    Question:
     
    It is learnt that the traditional customs of “Petty Person Beating” and “Offering Sacrifices to the White Tiger” carried out underneath the Canal Road Flyover (commonly known as “Ngo Keng Kiu”) in Causeway Bay have attracted quite a number of tourists to view and experience them. However, due to the crowded environment at the location, there have been conflicts between tourists and local residents from time to time, which is not conducive to the promotion of the relevant cultural activities. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it has compiled statistics on the change in the number of stall operators carrying out the aforesaid traditional customs and cultural activities underneath the flyover in the past 10 years; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) of the details of the authorities’ work in promoting the aforesaid traditional customs and cultural activities in the past three years, and whether the effectiveness of such work has been assessed; and
     
    (3) as it is learnt that at present, the aforesaid stall operators only hold business registration certificates and there is no accreditation mechanism for such cultural activities, while the management of stall operators and related activities also involves different policy areas (e.g. environmental hygiene and cultural tourism), whether the Government has considered setting up an interdepartmental management group to improve the relevant accreditation and management work with the focus on cultural conservation, so as to reduce the conflicts between tourists and residents while balancing the operational needs of the industry; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    President Xi Jinping once pointed out that the outstanding traditional Chinese culture is the spiritual lifeblood of the Chinese nation. The current-term Government is committed to promoting the outstanding traditional Chinese culture and has introduced multiple measures over the past two years, including establishing the Chinese Culture Promotion Office and organising the Chinese Culture Festival. “Promote Profound Traditional Chinese Culture and Develop Cultural Contents with Hong Kong Character” was also formulated as one of the four strategic directions in the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development promulgated at the end of last year.
     
    From the perspective of traditional culture, whether a custom qualifies as “outstanding” traditional culture depends on its cultural values in terms of diversity and pluralism. The merit of traditional culture should also be evaluated based on among others, its transmission, dissemination, and level of prevalence.
     
    Both “Offering Sacrifices to White Tiger” and “Beating Petty Person” are traditional Chinese culture with certain folk customs and symbolic meanings. In folk belief, White Tiger is seen as a malevolent spirit believed to bring misfortune. Thus, the ritual of “Offering Sacrifices to White Tiger” aims to ward off bad luck and troubles. “Beating Petty Person”, a folk custom in southern China, involves striking paper effigies or wooden figures with various tools to drive away bad luck and negative energy.
     
    The “Offering Sacrifices to White Tiger during Insects Awaken Day” is included as one of the items on the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Inventory of Hong Kong. The item specifically pertains to the practice of “Offering Sacrifices to White Tiger” conducted on the “Insects Awaken Day” within the “Twenty-Four Solar Terms” system, which typically falls on the 5th or 6th of March in the Gregorian calendar. This practice conducted on the “Insects Awaken Day” may include “Beating Petty Person”, and the practice of “Offering Sacrifices to White Tiger” can take place at various venues across Hong Kong, without limitation to any specified location. However, the “Offering Sacrifices to White Tiger” and “Beating Petty Person” activities underneath the Canal Road Flyover (commonly known as “Ngo Keng Kiu”) in Causeway Bay are operated all year round in general. These activities, which are not included in the scope of the “Twenty-Four Solar Terms” social practices, constitute commercial operations conducted by service providers.
     
    In consultation with the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau and the Environment and Ecology Bureau, my consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Edward Leung is as follows:
     
    The area underneath Canal Road Flyover is a renowned location for “Beating Petty Person”. While peak activity occurs during the “Insects Awaken Day” in March each year, the stalls operate “year-round”. Currently, around ten stalls operate beneath the flyover for this ritual, primarily concentrated along the pedestrian walkway facing the Hennessy Road tram tracks.
     
    Relevant departments have all along been following up on the environmental hygiene and street management issues arising from “Beating Petty Person” and carrying out enforcement actions within their respective jurisdictions. The Wan Chai District Office (WCDO) co-ordinates interdepartmental clearance operations (Joint Operation) on a regular basis to mitigate nuisances caused by these activities to the local residents and the surrounding environment. On-street activities may involve the purviews of various departments. The work of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) is mainly to maintain environmental hygiene. The FEHD has been monitoring the traditional customs of “Beating Petty Person” underneath the Canal Road Flyover and officers will, during their routine inspection, take appropriate actions based on the actual circumstances to maintain environmental hygiene.
     
    From January to May 2025, the WCDO coordinated a total of nine Joint Operations at the aforementioned location. Prior to the operation, the Government will post notices on unauthorised articles placed on Government land, reminding owners to remove the obstructive items. During the Joint Operation day, any remaining articles would be cleared by the FEHD. The WCDO will advise the “Beating Petty Person” practitioners to maintain clear pedestrian pathways. The Hong Kong Police Force will be present to maintain public order and provide assistance as required. Furthermore, any unauthorised structures found to be occupying Government land would be referred to the Lands Department for follow-up action.
     
    In alignment with the objective of promoting the outstanding traditional Chinese culture, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) are committed to safeguarding, transmitting and promoting the ICH of Hong Kong while actively supporting the national policies on furthering the safeguarding of ICH. For ICH items across diverse domains, various corresponding measures are implemented to strengthen different aspects of work such as identification, documentation, research, preservation, promotion and transmission and to enhance the public’s understanding of ICH and engage the community in safeguarding ICH. An example of these measures includes the ICH Funding Scheme of the LCSD, which supports eligible local organisations and individuals in implementing meaningful local ICH projects to promote the items on the ICH Inventory of Hong Kong. In addition, the LCSD will also develop a mechanism and criteria in 2025 for recognising the bearers of the items on the Representative List of the ICH of Hong Kong, as well as organising the “Hong Kong ICH Month”. As to “Offering Sacrifices to White Tiger during Insects Awaken Day”, the first “Hong Kong ICH Month” to be held in June this year will include workshops to introduce “Twenty-Four Solar Terms”, including the introduction of this ICH item of “Insects Awaken Day”.  
     
    In addition, the one-stop travel information platform of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, DiscoverHongKong, features information on “Beating Petty Person” under Ngo Keng Kiu. If visitors are interested, they can experience this distinctive local custom firsthand.
    Issued at HKT 15:42

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Expanding scope of regulated mercury-added products under Mercury Control Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Expanding scope of regulated mercury-added products under Mercury Control Ordinance 
         A spokesman for the Environment and Ecology Bureau said today (May 28) that the newly regulated mercury-added products will be listed in Schedule 3 to the Ordinance, including some electronic/electrical/lighting products and cosmetics. For details, please refer to the Annex. The amendments related to the first eight mercury-added products will take effect from December 31, 2025. The effective date(s) of the amendments related to the other eight mercury-added products will be announced separately after the relevant international convention becomes applicable to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
     
         In terms of enforcement, once the amendments to the Ordinance come into effect, the manufacture, import, export and supply of the relevant regulated mercury-added products will be prohibited. Anyone who contravenes the above regulations commits an offence and, upon conviction, is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year. The Government has set a grace period (until January 2029) for the supply of newly regulated mercury-added products to help the public adapt. After the specified deadline (i.e. after January 2029), if anyone continues to supply the relevant regulated mercury-added products, the authorities will initiate prosecution after collecting sufficient evidence and will also include the above implementation arrangements in the relevant guidelines.
     
         The spokesman said, “Bringing these mercury-added products under the regulation of the Ordinance can safeguard public health and protect the environment. It will at the same time enable the HKSAR to implement the amendments made to the Minamata Convention on Mercury to phase out mercury-added products.”
     
         The Convention is an international convention aimed at protecting human health and the environment from the harmful effects caused by the anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury and mercury compounds. At the fourth and fifth meetings of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention in 2022 and 2023, the Parties agreed to phase out 16 mercury-added products progressively between 2025 and 2027, taking into account the availability of mercury-free substitutes.
    Issued at HKT 15:42

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Media release: Australia’s oil and gas industry welcomes Sussan Ley’s new Shadow Cabinet – Australian Energy Producers

    Source: Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association

    Headline: Media release: Australia’s oil and gas industry welcomes Sussan Ley’s new Shadow Cabinet – Australian Energy Producers

    Australia’s oil and gas industry congratulates Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s new Shadow Ministry and looks forward to working with the Coalition on policies that deliver more gas supply and investment for Australia’s energy security and economic growth.

    Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch welcomed the re-appointment of Shadow Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Susan McDonald.

    “Senator McDonald has been a strong advocate for the resources sector and regional Australia, and brings deep understanding of the critical role of gas in supporting jobs and energy security,” Ms McCulloch said.

    “Her work as Shadow Minister for Resources and Northern Australia has highlighted the importance of a stable and competitive investment environment to unlock Australia’s resource potential and drive future economic growth.”

    Ms McCulloch also welcomed the appointments of Shadow Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Dan Tehan, Shadow Treasurer Ted O’Brien, Shadow Minister for Environment Angie Bell and Shadow Minister for Industry and Innovation Alex Hawke.

    “Dan Tehan’s experience in senior ministerial roles brings a valuable perspective to national energy policy, and we look forward to working with him as he takes on this important portfolio. His electorate of Wannon runs on natural gas, providing energy to critical local industries like dairy and manufacturing.”

    Industry stands ready to work with both major parties to implement bipartisan policies that will:

    • Boost Australian gas supply to ease cost of living pressures
    • Restore Australia’s global competitiveness for investment
    • Deliver real emissions reductions with gas and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS)
    • Remain a reliable energy partner in our region

    “The next term of Parliament presents an opportunity for industry to work with the Government and Opposition to deliver enduring reforms to boost productivity and investment, to ensure reliable and affordable energy for Australians,” Ms McCulloch said.

    Media contact: 0434 631 511

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Bureau of Industrial Parks honored 112 model workers to celebrate the Labor Day, dedicating BIP to build a happier workplace together.

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    To recognize the dedication and contributions of workers across industrial parks, the Bureau of Industrial Parks (BIP) of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) held the “2025 Labor Day Commendation Ceremony” on April 29. This year, a total of 112 outstanding workers from the northern, central, southern, and eastern regions of Taiwan were honored. The commendations include both local and migrant workers. In addition, eight companies were recognized for promoting harmonious labor-management relations and fostering a happy and sustainable workplace together with their employees.
    In the speech, BIP Director-General Mr. Chih-Ching Yang indicated that the continued growth of industrial parks relies on the tireless efforts of all workers and the active participation of enterprises. Director Yang noted that this recognition not only affirms the excellence of the awardees but also aims to inspire more employees to demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and dedication. These efforts will help promote labor-management harmony, enhance overall competitiveness, and create a more attractive industrial ecosystem through continued improvements to the labor environment and service mechanisms. The BIP remains committed to “safety” and “sustainability” as guiding principles in governance.
    Among this year’s honorees, Mr. Chen Cheng-Hsiung from Orient Semiconductor Electronics, Ltd. was named a National Model Worker. Known for his proactive work ethic, Mr. Chen has applied innovative thinking and technical expertise to propose multiple process improvements, significantly increasing production efficiency while reducing operational costs. His outstanding contributions have earned high praise from the company and become a role model for others in the industrial park workforce. Another noteworthy honoree is Ms. Cherienne Gonzales from NXP Semiconductors Taiwan Ltd. who received the award for Outstanding International Migrant Worker. As the first foreign member to join the company’s STR team, she took the initiative to learn Mandarin and has played a key role in team communication. Ms. Gonzales has earned the company’s highest performance rating for six consecutive years, embodying the professionalism and diverse value that international workers bring to Taiwan’s industries.
    In addition to individual awards, eight companies and labor unions were commended for excellence in labor-management relations. Honorees included Taiwan Futaba Electronics Corp., NXP Semiconductors Taiwan Ltd., Canon Inc., Taiwan, and Brogent Technologies Inc. These companies have shown exemplary performance in areas such as sound management systems, open communication, and workplace improvements, and have long been committed to creating stable and harmonious work environments and becoming the model of industrials in the parks.
    Reflecting on the BIP’s labor policy initiatives over the years, the BIP has actively promoted workplace safety and improved labor conditions through the “Happy Industrial Parks” initiative. Now in its second year, the “Work-Life Balance Friendly Enterprise Award” honored eight companies across various sectors and scales for advancing gender equality, flexible working hours, and family-friendly policies. These efforts underscore the BIP’s strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and continued support for sustainable labor practices.
    The BIP emphasizes that this event is more than just a celebration–it is a meaningful platform to advocate for the value of labor. By recognizing workers’ contributions, it helps unite labor and management toward a shared goal and injects steady momentum into Taiwan’s economic development.

    Spokesman: Mr. Liu Chi-Chuan (Deputy Director General, BIP)
    Contact Number: 886-7-3613349, 0911363680
    Email: lcc12@bip.gov.tw

    Contact Person: Chen, Chiao-Fei (Acting Director of Environment and Labor Affairs Division, BIP)
    Contact Number: 886-7-3611212 ext.471
    Email: erin@bip.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Quigley, Garbarino Introduce Bill to Combat Wildlife Trafficking

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

    On Wednesday, Congressmen Mike Quigley (D-IL-05) and Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-02) introduced the Wildlife Confiscations Network Act of 2025, legislation to support federal law enforcement in combating wildlife trafficking and ensure the proper placement and care of confiscated live animals.

    From 2015 to 2019, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) handled 834 live wildlife interdiction cases, involving nearly 49,000 individual animals—an average of nearly 30 per day. Many of these animals require immediate medical care, secure quarantine, and long-term placement, often beyond the capacity of U.S. ports of entry.

    The USFWS and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) launched a limited pilot Wildlife Confiscations Network in Southern California in 2023. While the pilot has helped coordinate placement in more than 135 cases and provided care for over 4,100 animals, its scope remains geographically narrow and operationally constrained. The Wildlife Confiscations Network Act of 2025 would build on this initial framework and expand the program nationwide—ensuring law enforcement agencies across the country can access a coordinated, professional network of care for confiscated wildlife.

    “The Wildlife Confiscations Network has already placed over 4,100 confiscated animals into quality facilities,” said Quigley. “I am proud to introduce legislation that expands this law enforcement network nationwide, ensuring that law enforcement officers are not unduly placed in harms way, and animals receive the care they need.”

    “Our border agents and federal inspectors work tirelessly to stop illegal wildlife trafficking, but they lack the resources and infrastructure to properly care for seized animals,” said Garbarino. “This bill will strengthen the federal response, relieve logistical burdens on law enforcement, and ensure that trafficked animals are treated humanely and professionally.”

    Specifically, the Wildlife Confiscations Network Act of 2025 would:

    • Establish a Wildlife Confiscations Network within the Department of the Interior, in partnership with a professional zoological accrediting association;
    • Create a voluntary, nationwide program to coordinate the placement and care of confiscated wildlife seized at U.S. borders and ports of entry;
    • Designate a single point of contact to assist federal law enforcement in placement coordination;
    • Maintain a database of qualified facilities—including zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, rescues, and rehabilitation centers—that can provide immediate and long-term care;
    • Create a review committee to evaluate applications from facilities seeking to join the Network;
    • Authorize $5 million annually from FY2026 to FY2030 to implement and operate the Network.

    The bill is endorsed by 58 leading organizations across the conservation and zoological community, including the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Wildlife Conservation Society, National Aquarium, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, and Biologists Without Borders. Other supporters include Akron Zoological Park, Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy, Birmingham Zoo, Brookfield Zoo Chicago, California Academy of Sciences, Center for Great Apes, Charles Paddock Zoo, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Dallas Zoo, Dazzle Africa, Delaware Zoological Society, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, Detroit Zoological Society, Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Great Plains Zoo, Houston Zoo, International Fund for Animal Welfare, Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park, Lemur Conservation Foundation, Lincoln Park Zoo, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Lockwood Animal Rescue Center, Louisville Zoo, Museum of Life and Science, Nashville Zoo, Niabi Zoo, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Oakland Zoo, Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Oregon Coast Aquarium, Oregon Zoo, Philadelphia Zoo, The Phoenix Zoo, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Racine Zoo, Roger Williams Park Zoo, Saint Louis Zoo, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, San Francisco Zoological Society, Santa Barbara Zoo, SEE Turtles, Sequoia Park Zoo, Tennessee Aquarium, Turtle Conservancy, Wild Tomorrow Fund, Inc., Wildlife Conservation Society, Wildlife Defense, Wildlife Jewels, Woodland Park Zoo, Zoo Atlanta, and Zoo Knoxville.

    “We are grateful to Congressmen Garbarino and Quigley for sponsoring the Wildlife Confiscations Network Act,” said Dan Ashe, president and CEO for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. “This bill will allow an already proven program to go national, permitting law enforcement officers at the border to focus on catching criminals and curbing wildlife trafficking, while our expert Wildlife Confiscation Network partners provide emergency medical treatment, critical rehabilitation, and new homes focused on the wellbeing of these confiscated, and often traumatized, animals. When law enforcement and animal experts collaborate, we can put the criminals behind bars, help rehabilitate the animal victims of wildlife trafficking that are ripped from their homes, and reduce the impact on wild populations of threatened and endangered species. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums looks forward to working with Congress to pass this important bill.”

    The full text of the bill can be found here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Raining one week, dusty the next – how did a dust storm make it all the way to rainy Sydney?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tegan Clark, PhD Candidate, College of Systems and Society, Australian National University

    A false-colour satellite showing dust as a pink cloud Himawari-9 satellite, CC BY-SA

    Much to the surprise of Sydney-siders, a dusty haze settled over the city on Tuesday morning after a week of heavy rain.

    Satellite images reveal the dust storm formed in the Mid-North region of South Australia, east of Spencer Gulf, at around 11am on Monday. It then travelled through western Victoria into New South Wales, reaching Sydney approximately 18 hours later.

    It’s an odd time of year for a dust storm, but South Australia is in drought. The soil is very dry, bare and loose. So when a cold front with strong winds moved through SA earlier this week, it picked up lots of dust.

    This demonstrates how everything is interconnected in Australia, despite the nation’s huge size. Extreme weather events such as drought in one part of the country can cause trouble for people “downwind”, hundreds of kilometres away. Climate change is likely to further raise the risk of dust storms in the future.

    Sydney’s air quality tumbled after the dust cloud settled on the city | 7NEWS.

    The dust bowl era

    In the 1930s, prolonged drought in the United States coupled with poor land management practices caused devastating dust storms. This eroded valuable agricultural soils and forced many families off the land. All this took place across the Central Plains, which became known as the American Dust Bowl – later immortalised in Steinbeck’s book The Grapes of Wrath.

    Australia experienced its own smaller dust bowl about a century after British settlers arrived. Overgrazing in the late 1800s removed native vegetation from large parts of western New South Wales. Dust storm activity picked up dramatically from the late 1800s onwards and hit a maximum in 1944-45 during the World War II drought.

    Fortunately, the dust storms and drought experienced during the 1940s soon prompted a change in both policy and attitude. The focus of land management shifted from “taming the land” to more sustainable use, such as moving livestock around from time to time – allowing paddocks to rest and recover. The government also provided more financial support to manage drought.

    Growing awareness and the desire to protect environmental assets also led to development of the NSW Soil Conservation Service.

    Australia has continued to experience heightened dust activity and major dust storms after 1945. In 2009, Sydney awoke to what looked like apocalyptic scenes straight out of the movie Mad Max when a dust storm engulfed the city.

    The last big dusty period was the Black Summer of 2019-20. Parts of NSW such as Wagga Wagga and Sydney were shrouded in smoke and dust for days. But there were significantly fewer “dust storm days” compared to 1944-45. This is partly due to improved land management practices that value sustainability, including the revegetation of denuded land.

    The movie Mad Max featured apocalyptic dust storm scenes.

    More dust storms as the climate changes

    Around the world, climate change is expected to make dust storms more common globally.

    Recent research suggests southern Australia may experience longer and more frequent droughts in the future. Grazing and cropping will put extra pressure on the land.

    In addition, the cold fronts that typically trigger large dust storms are expected to intensify with climate change. This means a growing chance of major dust storms such as the one this week.

    Dust is a health hazard

    Dust consists of tiny particles, some smaller than the width of a single strand of hair. These particles may include sand, topsoil, pollen, microbes, iron and other minerals, lifted into the air.

    When these tiny particles enter the lungs, they can cause breathing difficulties and respiratory diseases such as asthma. Dust storms are also known to transport diseases such as Valley Fever.

    The 2009 dust storm in Sydney led to an increase in emergency hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses, especially asthma.

    During the latest dust storm, health authorities warned people with respiratory issues to stay indoors and monitor symptoms.

    Developing early warning systems

    The 2019-20 dusty period and the current SA drought shows Australia can still fall victim to these major dust storms. But there are things we can do to be better prepared and more resilient.

    The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification suggests better ways to reduce harm from dust. These include improving land management practices, implementing early warning systems and improving monitoring of dust events.

    On the ground, NSW is well equipped to monitor dust through the DustWatch network. The air quality monitoring network acts as an early warning system, particularly for people in Sydney living downwind of sources interstate. But usually no more than 12-24 hours notice is provided. This means the authorities might might start to prepare to issue a warning when they detect poor air quality in Western NSW.

    However, these systems pale in comparison to the predictive capacity available in South Korea and Japan. There, alerts of dust storms and poor air quality can be issued days in advance.

    Using our eyes in the sky

    My PhD research project involves using satellites to deepen our understanding of where dust storms are coming from and where they might travel to.

    For instance the Himawari-8/9 satellite scans Australia every ten minutes, allowing us to track the evolution of dust events from start to finish.

    We can pinpoint almost the exact moment a dust storm begins. These areas can then be targeted using satellites to understand the conditions of the land causing dust storms to form and monitor high-risk areas for erosion in the future.

    Putting technology to good use will get us part of the way to a more resilient Australia. There is also a clear need to adapt to the changing climate in our nation’s grazing and cropping systems.

    Tegan Clark receives support from the Australian Government Research Training Program to undertake her PhD. She also works for Connected Farms, an ag-tech company. She is a volunteer with IncludeHer, a non-for-profit focused on gender equity in STEM education.

    – ref. Raining one week, dusty the next – how did a dust storm make it all the way to rainy Sydney? – https://theconversation.com/raining-one-week-dusty-the-next-how-did-a-dust-storm-make-it-all-the-way-to-rainy-sydney-251600

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: North West Shelf approval brings Woodside’s toxic gas plans a step closer to Scott Reef

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    SYDNEY/PERTH, Wednesday 28 May 2025 — Greenpeace Australia Pacific has denounced the proposed approval of Woodside’s North West Shelf gas extension to run until 2070, a decision it says brings Woodside’s drills a step closer to Scott Reef.

    The decision was provisionally granted by Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt today. Greenpeace footage captured from the Rainbow Warrior shows how close Woodside’s planned drill sites are to Scott Reef, with up to 50 gas wells planned that would supply its North West Shelf facility.  

    David Ritter, CEO at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, said: “This is a terrible decision that brings Woodside’s destructive gas drills one step closer to Scott Reef, a magnificent marine ecosystem that is home to threatened species like pygmy blue whales and green sea turtles.

    “The North West Shelf facility is one of Australia’s dirtiest and most polluting fossil fuel projects. This approval brings Woodside’s toxic gas plans closer to Scott Reef, holds back the clean energy transition underway in WA, and fuels growing climate damage in Australia and around the world.

    “In the 1970s, Gough Whitlam led the initial charge to protect the Great Barrier Reef from oil drilling. It’s unthinkable today that we would allow a multinational company to drill for fossil fuels on the Great Barrier Reef, yet that is what Woodside plans to do at Scott Reef. The Albanese government has an opportunity to define its ocean legacy by protecting Scott Reef from Woodside’s destruction.

    “Despite what the gas lobby says, the reality is we don’t need more polluting gas. We’re over 40% towards powering Australia with clean renewable energy and setting our industry and communities up for clean jobs and economic growth — not pretending that the old polluting ways can just continue.

    “A healthy, thriving environment is good for us all: business, nature and WA communities. The Albanese government’s next decision on whether or not to approve Woodside’s Browse proposal will show Australians the true colours of the government — we urge Minister Watt to stand up for nature and oceans and reject Woodside plans to drill at Scott Reef.”

    -ENDS-

    For more information or interviews contact Kate O’Callaghan on 0406 231 892 or [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: DOC starts local conversations on paid parking pilots

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  28 May 2025

    “We’ve begun formally sharing important information with local stakeholders on the paid parking pilots including our plans and timelines,” says Catherine Wilson – Director Visitor and Heritage.

    “We’re keen for people’s thoughts on how we can make these pilots a success and are asking for feedback by 19 June.”

    The paid parking pilots are expected to begin in October for the coming summer season.

    “Piloting paid parking will allow DOC to test if it’s an effective tool for establishing better management of visitor car parking at busy DOC sites, improving the customer experience and contributing toward the financial sustainability of DOC’s visitor network”, says Catherine.

    “Other countries use paid car parking to manage visitor numbers and contribute to the costs of national parks and popular tourism sites. Paid parking also allows visitors to give back to the popular places they enjoy.”

    In 2018, approximately 500,000 people visited the Pancake Rocks walkway at Punakaiki and over 780,000 people visited Franz Josef. Numbers dropped significantly during COVID but are now recovering to pre-COVID levels.

    The paid parking pilots are part of DOC’s work to better manage visitors and their impact while delivering fantastic nature experiences.

    For further information on paid parking pilots or to provide feedback, contact PaidCarParking@doc.govt.nz.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: From surprise platypus to wandering cane toads, here’s what we found hiding in NSW estuaries

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Maarten De Brauwer, Senior Research Scientist in Marine and Estuarine Ecology, Southern Cross University

    Maarten De Brauwer

    Rivers up and down the north coast of New South Wales have been hammered again, just three years after devastating floods hit the Northern Rivers and Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley.

    The events of 2022 sparked our latest research into the estuaries of NSW. These special places, where the rivers meet the sea, are teeming with life. Now – for the first time – we can reveal what lives where, in maps based on tell-tale traces of DNA.

    Together with Indigenous rangers from six language groups, we surveyed 34 estuaries to capture evidence of living species – everything from microbes to fish, plants and mammals.

    We were surprised to find platypus in places they had not been seen for years. We also identified elusive native species such antechinus and rakali, and 68 invasive or pest species including cane toads – spreading further south than previously thought.

    This catalogue of species in NSW estuaries can be used by authorities and scientists – but anyone, anywhere can explore the map online.

    Mapping life in NSW estuaries (Southern Cross University)

    Estuaries are vital, yet many questions remain

    First Nations Peoples have long recognised the vital importance of the areas where land meets sea. Estuaries are have provided food resources for thousand of years and are home to important historical and contemporary cultural sites.

    Today, 87% of Australians live within 50km of the sea. This makes estuaries one of the most intensively used areas of NSW. They provide critical habitats such as seagrass or mangroves, host high biodiversity, and have a high social value as places for recreational activities such as fishing.

    Yet research into the species that live in estuaries is mostly limited to large estuaries such as Sydney Harbour, Botany Bay or Port Stephens.

    NSW has excellent water quality monitoring programs, and vital habitats such as seagrass meadows have been the subject of long-term mapping programs. However, large gaps remain.

    Understanding how biodiversity in estuaries changes over time, especially in response to extreme events, can help governments design appropriate responses to maintain or restore ecosystem health. But with nearly 200 estuaries in NSW, studying changes in biodiversity is not a simple task.

    Find out what lives in your local estuary free, online.
    Wilderlab

    Our DNA detective work

    Measuring salinity or oxygen levels in water is relatively straightforward, using equipment on the shoreline or hanging off the side of a boat. Finding out what lives where is much more difficult. This where new genetic methods come in.

    Collecting environmental DNA samples at the Clarence River estuary.
    Southern Cross University

    Life forms leave tell-tale traces of DNA in the environment. Animals may shed hair, skin or scales, as well as poo. Plants produce pollen and leaves that end up in the water.

    We matched small snippets of DNA to find the species it belonged to – a bit like scanning a barcode in the supermarket.

    This technique allows us to analyse the full extent of biodiversity in estuaries. This includes not just fish, but also species at the base of the food chain such as microscopic algae – all from a few litres of water.

    Indigenous rangers live and work on Country and know it well. We formed alliances with six groups of Indigenous rangers through the state’s Cultural Restoration Program:

    • Batemans Bay Local Aboriginal Land Council (Walbunja)
    • Bega Local Aboriginal Land Council
    • Jali Local Aboriginal Land Council
    • Jerinja Local Aboriginal Land Council
    • LaPeruse Local Aboriginal Land Council (Gamay)
    • Yaegl Wadyarr Gargle Land and Sea Contractors.

    Our research builds on the different strengths and interests of local groups. The rangers worked with us all the way through, from the design phase to selecting sampling sites of ecological or cultural significance, helping to conduct surveys and working with scientists to interpret the results.

    Trained in environmental DNA methods, rangers can monitor their Country independently in future.

    What did we find?

    We now have the largest publicly available biodiversity dataset for NSW estuaries. It covers everything from single-celled algae at the base of the food chain, to top predators such as great white sharks and white-bellied sea eagles.

    Anyone can explore the interactive map to find out what lives in the estuaries nearby or further afield.

    Rangers detected platypus in the lower reaches of Bega River, in places where they were thought to have disappeared. Totemic species such as dolphins were widespread across the state, including urban estuaries such as Botany Bay in Sydney, while mullet and bream were found shifting between the mouth and further upriver. Cane toads were found at Sandon River in the Northern Rivers region, and most recently in Coffs Harbour, much further south than expected.

    These results mean a lot to local Indigenous mobs. They can integrate contemporary scientific results into traditional ecological knowledge and use both approaches to better understand how estuaries respond to extreme weather events or activities such as habitat restoration.

    We also recently returned to sample sites following Tropical Cyclone Alfred and the extreme rainfall events in March. Being able to compare the data to a well-established baseline survey means we will be able to see which species were worst affected.

    Knowledge sharing for the future

    Two-way knowledge sharing between Indigenous knowledge holders and research scientists is improving our understanding of estuarine health.

    The results of this project will help Indigenous groups to care for their Country while also improving scientific knowledge to better respond to environmental impacts such as floods for decades to come.

    The project was a team effort. L to R: Kait Harris (NSW Departments of Primary Industries and Regional Development), Maarten De Brauwer (Southern Cross University), Shaun Laurie (Yaegl Rangers), and Amos Ferguson (Yaegl Rangers).
    Southern Cross University

    The authors wish to acknowledge this program was delivered collaboration with and on behalf of the Departments of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), Fisheries & Forestry, with funding provided by the Australian and NSW governments under Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements as part of the NSW Estuary Asset Protection program (NEAP).

    Maarten De Brauwer received funding from the federal government’s Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (Riparian Stabilisation Package) as part of the NSW state government’s Estuary Asset Protection program. He is a board member of the Southern eDNA Society.

    Kaitlyn Harris works for NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

    Kelly Gittins works for the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

    – ref. From surprise platypus to wandering cane toads, here’s what we found hiding in NSW estuaries – https://theconversation.com/from-surprise-platypus-to-wandering-cane-toads-heres-what-we-found-hiding-in-nsw-estuaries-257123

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Locus Technologies Releases Service Order Management App

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Locus Technologies, the sustainability and Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) compliance software leader, announced the release of its Locus Service Order Management (SOM) app, a user-configurable software-as-a-service (SaaS) to help complex organizations efficiently manage any work order lifecycle and streamline any service workflow with transparency, auditability, and AI modeling. The Locus Service Order Management app automates the scheduling, dispatching, and tracking of service tasks for any department, from inception to closure, all within a single unified platform. Locus SOM integrates with 30+ purpose-built apps in the Locus ecosystem, enabling seamless integration with adjacent apps for service order-centric initiatives, such as EHS and water compliance, incident response, and asset management.

    “Locus Service Order Management is the missing piece for organizations looking to streamline field operations and compliance response without adding another disconnected system,” said Neno Duplan, founder and CEO of Locus Technologies. “It makes little sense for customers to license and manage standalone service order software when they can use our fully integrated, AI-ready platform to initiate, track, and document corrective actions—whether responding to a water compliance alert, a refrigerant leak, or any other field event—directly from within the same system they already use to manage environmental data.”

    Locus SOM includes end-to-end workflow automation, dashboards and reports, process analytics, field service management (FSM), tasking, notifications, routing/territory planning, asset and equipment management, incident management, and corrective action tracking.

    All Locus apps are metadata-driven, which empowers users to configure the interfaces and workflows within Locus Service Order Management to meet the needs of any department, from compliance to customer service and ITSM. “There’s no limit to the types of business processes our customers can manage with Locus Service Orders; it could be equipment maintenance or service outages. The app flexes to any use case,” said Duplan.

    All Locus software is delivered via a multitenant cloud that centralizes and secures customers’ data, enabling scalability and AI that continually improves as the collective data grows. “The Locus Service Order app improves service delivery and reduces operational costs through the efficient, automated management of work orders and the generation of insights to optimize workforces and transform processes,” said Duplan.

    To learn more about Locus Service Order Management and the ecosystem of 30+ purpose-built apps for Locus Platform, please visit http://www.locustec.com.

    About Locus Technologies
    Locus Technologies, the global environmental, social, governance (ESG), sustainability, and EHS compliance software leader, empowers companies of every size and industry to be credible with ESG reporting. From 1997, Locus pioneered enterprise software-as-a-service (SaaS) for EHS compliance, water management, and ESG credible reporting. Locus apps and software solutions improve business performance by strengthening risk management and EHS for organizations across industries and government agencies. Organizations ranging from medium-sized businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, such as Sempra, Corteva, Chevron, DuPont, Chemours, San Jose Water Company, The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Port of Seattle, and Los Alamos National Laboratory, have selected Locus. Locus is headquartered in Mountain View, California. For further information regarding Locus and its commitment to excellence in SaaS solutions, please visit http://www.locustec.com or email info@locustec.com.

    Media Contact:
    Brenda Mahedy
    Locus Technologies
    media@locustechnologies.net

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 27 May 2025 Note for Media Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly – Daily update: 27 May 2025

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly approved a decision to update the Global action plan (GAP) on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), for discussion at next year’s World Health Assembly (WHA79) in 2026.

    An estimated 4.71 million deaths were associated with bacterial AMR as of 2021, according to the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD). The GAP update will offer a practical framework for the next 10 years to achieve the targets and commitments included in the political declaration of the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting on AMR in 2024 – including a 10% reduction in global deaths associated with bacterial AMR by 2030.

    Since the global action plan was adopted in 2015, over 170 countries have developed multi-sectoral national action plans to address AMR. The updated plan will ensure the latest guidance is available to help countries accelerate implementation. It will reflect a multisectoral One Health approach, which aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems.

    WHO and the other Quadripartite organizations – the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) – will develop this update in consultation with Member States and relevant stakeholders.

    The Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly also considered progress made in supporting countries to prevent infections; ensure universal access to quality and affordable diagnosis and appropriate treatment; strengthen surveillance, research and innovation; and enhance AMR awareness, governance and financing.

    Looking ahead, other WHO priorities include supporting countries to achieve efficiencies by integrating AMR interventions in health sector planning and financing, and enhancing coordination and governance of the AMR response at all levels, including with the Quadripartite.

    Related links

    Assembly adopts the Global action plan on climate change and health for 2025–2028

    At the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly in 2025, Member States expressed support for the first-ever draft Global action plan on climate change and health, marking an important step forward in global health and climate policy. The draft Global action plan 2025–2028 (EB156(40)) acknowledged the urgent need to address the health impacts of climate change, positioning health systems as part of the climate solution.

    It aims to provide a strategic framework to guide Member States, the WHO Secretariat and other stakeholders in developing climate-resilient, low-carbon health systems; enhancing surveillance and early warning systems; protecting vulnerable populations; and integrating health into climate policy and financing mechanisms.

    Building on commitments made at previous Conference of the Parties (COPs) and the outcomes of the Executive Board meeting in February 2025, this plan supports WHO’s work to promote health leadership in the global climate agenda and coordinate country-level action and implementation. By supporting this Global action plan, the Assembly affirmed that climate action is not only an environmental priority but also a strategic health priority.

    While recognizing this important progress, some Member States noted that more time and dialogue are needed to reach consensus on certain principles and language used in the action plan moving forward.

    Related links:

    • Climate change and health: Draft Global Action Plan on Climate Change and Health A78/4 Add.2
    • Documents A78/4, A78/4 Add.2 and EB156/2025/REC/1, decision EB156(40)
    • Draft Global Action Plan on Climate Change and Health as contained in decision EB156(40) and
    • EB156/25)

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Autonomous Tritium Micropowered Sensors

    Source: NASA

    Peter CabauyCity Labs, Inc.
    The NIAC Phase I study confirmed the feasibility of nuclear-micropowered probes (NMPs) using tritium betavoltaic power technology for autonomous exploration of the Moon’s permanently shadowed regions (PSRs). This work advanced the technology’s readiness level (TRL) from TRL 1 to TRL 2, validating theoretical models and feasibility assessments. Phase II will refine the technology, address challenges, and elevate the TRL to 3, with a roadmap for further maturation toward TRL 4 and beyond, supporting NASA’s mission for lunar and planetary exploration. A key innovation is tritium betavoltaic power sources, providing long-duration energy in extreme environments. The proposed 5cm x 5cm gram-scale device supports lunar spectroscopy and other applications. In-situ analyses at the Moon’s south pole are challenging due to cold, limited solar power, and prolonged darkness. Tritium betavoltaics harvest energy from radioactive decay, enabling autonomous sensing in environments unsuitable for conventional photovoltaics and chemical-based batteries.
    The proposal focuses on designing an ultrathin light weight tritium betavoltaic into an NMP for integrating various scientific instruments. Tritium-powered NMPs support diverse applications, from planetary science to scouting missions for human exploration. This approach enables large-scale deployment for high-resolution remote sensing. For instance, a distributed NMP array could map lunar water resources, aiding Artemis missions. Beyond the Moon, tritium-powered platforms enable a class of missions to Mars, Europa, Enceladus, and asteroids, where alternative power sources are impractical.
    Phase II objectives focus on improving energy conversion efficiency and resilience of tritium betavoltaic power sources, targeting 1-10 μW continuous electrical power with higher thermal output. The project will optimize NMP integration with sensor platforms, enhancing power management, data transmission, and environmental survivability in PSR conditions. Environmental testing will assess survivability under lunar landing conditions, including decelerations of 27,000-270,000g and interactions with lunar regolith. The goal is to advance TRL from 2 to 3 by demonstrating proof-of-concept prototypes and preparing for TRL 4. Pathways for NASA mission integration will be explored, assessing scalability, applicability, and cost-effectiveness compared to alternative technologies.
    A key discovery in Phase I was the thermal-survivability benefit of the betavoltaic’s tritium metal hydride, which generates enough heat to keep electronic components operational. This dual functionality–as both a power source and thermal stabilizer–allows NMP components to function within temperature specifications, a breakthrough for autonomous sensing in extreme environments. Beyond lunar applications, this technology could revolutionize planetary science, deep-space exploration, and terrestrial use cases. It could aid Mars missions, where dust storms and long nights challenge solar power, and Europa landers, which need persistent low-power operation. Earth-based applications such as biomedical implants and environmental monitoring could benefit from the proposed advancements in betavoltaic energy storage and micro-scale sensors. The Phase II study supports NASA’s Artemis objectives by enabling sustainable lunar exploration through enhanced resource characterization and autonomous monitoring. Tritium-powered sensing has strategic value for PSR scouting, planetary-surface mapping, and deep-space monitoring. By positioning tritium betavoltaic NMPs as a power solution for extreme environments, this study lays the foundation for transitioning the technology from concept to implementation, advancing space exploration and scientific discovery.
    2025 Selections

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s West Point speech brought partisanship to the home of the US military − 3 essential reads

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeff Inglis, Environment + Energy Editor, The Conversation US

    President Donald Trump delivers the commencement address at West Point on May 24, 2025. AP Photo/Adam Gray

    President Donald Trump’s speech at the graduation of the class of 2025 from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point included segments that were clearly scripted and portions that were obviously not.

    During the unscripted portions, Trump, who wore a bright red “Make America Great Again” campaign hat during his entire appearance on May 24, 2025, delivered remarks that hit many of his frequent partisan political talking points. That included attacking presidential predecessors Barack Obama and Joe Biden, describing immigrants to the U.S. as “criminals” and trumpeting other policy accomplishments in his first and second terms.

    That level of partisanship in a military setting – on the campus of the nation’s first military academy, and before an audience of cadets and their families, many of whom are veterans – is unusual in the United States.

    The Conversation U.S. has published several articles discussing the importance to democracy of keeping the military and partisan politics separate. Here are three highlights from that coverage.

    1. Cadets focus on the Constitution

    During the West Point ceremony, the graduates themselves took an oath to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.” And all of them had studied the significance of that oath, including in classes like those taught by Joseph G. Amoroso and Lee Robinson, active-duty Army officers who graduated from West Point and later served as professors there.

    As Amoroso and Robinson wrote, those classes teach cadets that, like all military personnel, they serve the Constitution and the American people, not a particular person or political party:

    “(O)ur oath forms the basis of a nonpartisan ethic. In the U.S., unlike in many other countries, the oath implies military leaders should be trusted for their expertise and judgment, not for their loyalty to an individual or political party. We emphasize to cadets the rules and professional expectations associated with this profound responsibility.”



    Read more:
    Military personnel swear allegiance to the Constitution and serve the American people – not one leader or party

    2. A tradition of nonpartisanship

    Retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Samuel C. Mahaney, who teaches history, national security and constitutional law at Missouri University of Science and Technology, observed:

    “(S)ince the days of George Washington, the military has been dedicated to serving the nation, not a specific person or political agenda. … (N)onpartisanship is central to the military’s primary mission of defending the country.”

    Mahaney wrote that if Trump’s actions during his second term meant a change from the centuries of precedent, “military personnel at all levels would face a crucial question: Would they stand up for the military’s independent role in maintaining the integrity and stability of American democracy or follow the president’s orders – even if those orders crossed a line that made them illegal or unconstitutional?”

    Presenting a key question for military personnel.



    Read more:
    Trump’s firings of military leaders pose a crucial question to service members of all ranks

    3. Dating back to the founding of the nation

    Marcus Hedahl and Bradley Jay Strawser, professors of philosophy who teach military ethics at the U.S. Naval Academy and the Naval Postgraduate School, respectively, explain the reason for this long-standing focus on keeping politicians and politics separate from military action.

    “To minimize the chance of the kind of military occupation they suffered during the Revolutionary War, the country’s founders wrote the Constitution requiring that the president, an elected civilian, would be the commander in chief of the military. In the wake of World War II, Congress went even further, restructuring the military and requiring that the secretary of defense be a civilian as well.”

    As they observed, “… the framers always intended it to be the people’s military – not the president’s.”



    Read more:
    Threatening ‘the enemy within’ with force: Military ethicists explain the danger to important American traditions

    This story is a roundup of articles from The Conversation’s archives.

    – ref. Trump’s West Point speech brought partisanship to the home of the US military − 3 essential reads – https://theconversation.com/trumps-west-point-speech-brought-partisanship-to-the-home-of-the-us-military-3-essential-reads-257673

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: BC Parks improves accessibility, inclusion

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Accessibility and inclusion continue to be front of mind in BC Parks so more people can connect to the beauty and benefits of being in nature.

    Following the release of the BC Parks Commitment to Inclusion in March 2023, facilities such as washrooms, parking lots and access trails to park features have been upgraded to accessibility standards in many parks throughout the province. The upgrades are among several initiatives that help remove barriers that restrict people from accessing outdoor recreation. 

    “Everyone should feel encouraged and supported to access and enjoy parks in B.C., regardless of their ability or identity,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “Creating meaningful access to nature involves more than removing physical barriers for people with disabilities. From our website to campsites, we remain focused on collaborating with communities and partners, and taking action to make parks more welcoming and meaningfully accessible for everyone.”

    BC Parks has been creating more accessible facilities for years and incorporates universal design standards into all new campground and recreation expansion projects, where possible. In 2024, accessibility upgrades were included in more than 25 projects. This year, more than 20 projects are underway that will improve park access for people with disabilities.

    Among the parks that now have accessibility upgrades is Ross Lake Park near Hazelton. The day-use area was recently upgraded with new accessible parking, compact gravel pathways, picnic tables and pit toilets. A lake-viewing platform and swimming/fishing dock is also accessible.     

    At Jimsmith Lake Park near Cranbrook, the beach was recently recontoured to improve access, and an accessible beach mat is available during the summer months. Other upgrades include an accessible fishing dock, accessible playground and an accessible picnic area in the lower day-use area, next to the lake.

    “Our communities thrive when they are inclusive – when everyone has the chance to participate, contribute and succeed,” said Dana Lajeunesse, parliamentary secretary for accessibility. “When we make parks more accessible, we are ensuring that more people of any ability can experience the beauty of B.C.’s natural spaces.”

    BC Parks continues to partner with diverse community organizations and collaborate on projects that break down barriers. This year, BC Parks partnered with the BC Parks Foundation and the Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre to give more people the opportunity to connect with the wonders of the natural world through virtual self-guided nature walks and park tours in American sign language (ASL).

    Children and adults who are deaf or hard of hearing can learn about parks through ASL videos that are accessed via QR codes and at DiscoverParks.ca. The initiative began at Goldstream Park and has grown to include Rathtrevor Beach, Cultus Lake and Golden Ears parks. A virtual sunset photography lesson is also offered at Porteau Cove Park.

    “As a deaf parent and advocate, accessible experiences in nature, especially those that include ASL, are life-changing for families like mine. Too often, deaf individuals are excluded from outdoor education and community events due to language barriers,” said Monika Lane with the Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre. “These ASL nature tours and resources not only provide access, but they foster a deep sense of belonging and connection. I am grateful to see BC Parks taking meaningful steps to make inclusion a reality.”

    The BC Parks Foundation works with BC Parks, funding equipment, upgrades to facilities, and new park experiences throughout the province. The foundation also supports the ASL project and trains Discover Park ambassadors in accessibility and inclusion.

    “British Columbians feel strongly that everyone should be able to access and feel at home in parks,” said Andy Day, CEO, BC Parks Foundation. “It’s who we are, and it’s good for B.C., boosting physical and mental health, creating jobs and wealth, bringing people together and making us all feel proud about being British Columbian.”

    BC Parks partnered with RAD Recreation Adapted Society to help buy two adaptive mountain bikes for programs in Vancouver and Invermere. Where park terrain is challenging to upgrade to an accessible standard, adaptive equipment, such as all-terrain wheelchairs, beach wheelchairs and adaptive mountain bikes, help improve accessibility, but the cost can be prohibitive.

    To help newcomers to Canada feel welcome in parks, BC Parks offers the Learn-to-be-in-Nature event series. The free community-focused events provide a fun, supportive space for people to build confidence in outdoor recreation, explore local parks, and learn safety and environmental practices. Three events will be held this summer:

    • Vancouver on June 7;
    • Terrace on June 17; and
    • Smithers on July 5.

    Created with input from community organizations that serve equity-deserving groups, the BC Parks Commitment to Inclusion outlines the range of actions taken to ensure provincial parks and protected areas are more welcoming.

    Learn More:

    For more information, visit the BC Parks Commitment to Inclusion webpage: https://bcparks.ca/about/commitment-to-inclusion/

    To learn more about accessibility in BC Parks, visit: https://accessibility.bcparks.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Fly-By: May 23, 2025

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Pfluger Fly-By: May 23, 2025

    Washington, May 23, 2025

    May 23, 2025

    Friend,

    Welcome back to the weekly Pfluger Fly-By, a roundup of events and updates to keep you informed on everything I am doing week by week to represent you in Congress.

    I am thrilled to report that after months of hard work, we officially passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act this week to advance President Trump’s America First Agenda. This bill is headed to the Senate and includes historic tax cuts for American families, funding to reimburse Texas for the border crisis, support for our farmers and ranchers, and much more.

    In addition to passing this historic legislation this week, I attended the signing of the TAKE IT DOWN Act at the White House, hosted the National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett at this week’s RSC members meeting, participated in an Energy & Commerce hearing with EPA Administrator Zeldin, spoke with Midland Classical Academy students, and more.

    I have included some photos and highlights from the week. You’ll also find information on how my office can assist you with any federal issues you may be facing. As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can ever be of assistance.

    Best,

    One Big Beautiful Bill Act Passes Out of the U.S. House

    I am proud that House Republicans united to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act this week. In November, 77 million Americans demanded change, and this vote will go down in history as promises made, promises kept. This legislation reverses four years of failed Democrat policies – restoring American energy dominance, delivering vital support to our farmers and ranchers, securing historic tax cuts for hardworking families, reining in wasteful government spending, and making the strongest investment in border security in decades. This legislation delivers all that – and more – for every American.

    It also includes $12 billion to reimburse the great state of Texas for costs it should never have had to bear during the previous administration’s border crisis. For four years, Texas was forced to protect its border when the federal government failed to. Those days are now over, and I was proud to spearhead this effort. You can read about my efforts to secure this win in San Angelo LIVE HERE.

    Immediately following its passage, I joined ‘Wake Up America’ on Newsmax. Watch my full interview HERE.

    RSC Members Meeting with National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett

    As Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC), I had the pleasure of hosting National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett at this week’s RSC members meeting. Hearing from Director Hassett was critical and timely as Republicans worked tirelessly to finalize negotiations on the One Big Beautiful Bill.

    E&C Hearing With EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin

    This week, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin appeared before the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Environment Subcommittee for a hearing titled, “The Fiscal Year 2026 Environmental Protection Agency Budget.” During the hearing, I thanked Administrator Zeldin for coming to West Texas, commended his efforts to rein in the EPA’s regulatory overreach, and asked about the status of several key policies.

    Under the previous administration, the EPA was weaponized against American energy producers in the Permian Basin and across the country. In stark contrast, the Trump Administration and Administrator Zeldin are rolling back burdensome regulations and ensuring that the EPA works with Congress and industry leaders to advance commonsense policies. These policies aim to protect our environment while supporting robust energy production.

    Watch my full exchange with Administrator Zeldin here or by clicking the image below.

    TAKE IT DOWN Act Signed into Law

    I was honored to join President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House this week to witness the TAKE IT DOWN Act signed into law. As a father to three young girls, I join many parents in being deeply concerned about the rise of deepfakes and nonconsensual intimate images.

    I was proud to co-lead this legislation in the U.S. House to protect victims of this harmful act while restoring online accountability. You can read more about the TAKE IT DOWN Act here.

    Discussing the One Big Beautiful Bill and the Golden Dome on Fox Business

    I joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business this week to discuss the One Big Beautiful Bill Act before its passage in the House, and President Trump’s push for the “Golden Dome.”

    Watch my full interview HERE or by clicking the image below.

    2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner

    This week, I was also proud to announce Korbin Jastrow, a Senior at San Angelo Central High School, as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for her piece titled ‘The Exception.’ Her winning piece will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for the next year.

    For yet another year, I was completely blown away by the incredible talent of students across Texas’s 11th Congressional District. In a blind selection process, the committee selected Korbin’s piece for its unique take on Texas agriculture.

    In her submission, Korbin explained how she created the piece, stating, “The cow was drawn with pencil, then stamped with handmade stamps representing the Indian paintbrush and bluebonnets. The background was done with acrylic paint, and the shadows behind the cow were done with tissue paper.”

    Congratulations, Korbin!

    2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner: Korbin Jastrow’s ‘The Exception’

    Midland Classical Academy Students in Washington

    I had a fantastic time speaking with students from Midland Classical Academy during their trip to Washington, D.C. this week. Gaining an understanding of our legislative process is invaluable for students, which is why visiting with them when they come to D.C. is a top priority of mine. I am always inspired by the next generation of leaders, and want to thank the chaperones, parents, and teachers who made their visit possible.

    If you are visiting Washington, D.C. this summer, my office would be thrilled to book a tour of the U.S. Capitol building for you and your group. My office can also assist in requesting White House tours and tours of other iconic buildings around DC.

    Visit https://pfluger.house.gov/forms/tourrequest/to book your tour today. The earlier you can get your request in the better.

    REMINDER: If you are in need of assistance with a federal agency, my office is here to help. For more information, please visit our website HERE.

    Thank you for reading. It is the honor of my lifetime to serve you in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) for daily updates.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Flood protection levelled up in Calgary

    Flood maps play a critical role in helping Alberta’s communities prepare for flooding and respond more effectively when it happens by guiding land-use planning, supporting emergency preparedness, and protecting people, property and infrastructure.

    Alberta’s government has released new Bow and Elbow River flood maps showing that Calgary’s flood risk along the Elbow River has been drastically reduced thanks to the recently completed Springbank Off-Stream Reservoir and other projects. More projects are already underway to keep strengthening flood protections in the city.

    The Calgary flood map shows the substantial reduction of the flood hazard area due to the new flood mitigation provided by the Springbank Off-Stream Reservoir (SR1).

    “We committed to protect Calgary and other communities from floods and we are seeing the results. These new flood maps are good news for families and businesses, but we are also going to keep investing in reservoirs, berms, updated flood maps and the critical infrastructure needed to keep people and their property safe.”

    Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

    “The new Bow and Elbow River flood maps are very important for Calgary. Since 2013, understanding of our rivers has grown and a range of resilience measures have been put in place, which substantially lowers risk in many of our communities. It’s critical, while facing housing and affordability concerns, that the best, up-to-date flood hazard information is available, so we can keep building an informed, flood-resilient Calgary. We gratefully acknowledge the expertise and collaboration of the province in the updated river modelling and mapping.”

    Frank Frigo, manager, environmental management, climate and environment, The City of Calgary

    Knowing where the water will flow during a flood is critical to understanding where it is safe to farm, safe to build, and how to best prepare for emergency situations. These maps will help the City of Calgary design and build for the future.

    While flood risks will vary at any given location, the newly released maps show significant decreases in major flood risks in many areas of Calgary. That is because, in the future, if water in the Elbow River rises to dangerous levels, the flow will be diverted into the Springbank Off-stream Reservoir and further reduced by the Glenmore Dam. This not only reduces the risk of flooding along the Elbow River in Calgary and other downstream communities, it also helps prevent future disasters like the devastating 2013 flood.

    Alberta’s government has finalized more flood maps in the past five years than in the previous thirty-five years combined, with many more studies now underway. The relocated Ghost Dam project continues to advance on the Bow River, and the province has launched the five-year $125-million Drought and Flood Protection Program to help protect families, businesses and communities across the province.

    Quick facts

    • Alberta has also finalized new flood mapping for Fort McMurray and multiple communities along the Highwood, Red Deer and Sheep Rivers.
    • All finalized and draft flood maps can be found on the Government of Alberta floods website (see link below).
    • Flood studies provide flood maps that are used to support emergency response, help build up long-term flood resiliency and show Albertans what flood protections are in place today.
    • Since 2020, the Alberta government has released new or updated flood mapping spanning more than 1,600 kilometres and has committed to creating more than 3,000 kilometres of new and updated flood mapping by 2028.

    Related information

    • Flood Awareness Maps
    • Flood Hazard Identification Program
    • Flood Mapping Basics
    • Canada Flood Map Inventory

    Related news

    • Alberta finalizing flood maps at lightning speed (April 9, 2025)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Proclaims May 25-31 North Carolina Heat Awareness Week

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Proclaims May 25-31 North Carolina Heat Awareness Week

    Governor Stein Proclaims May 25-31 North Carolina Heat Awareness Week
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Earlier this month, Governor Josh Stein proclaimed May 25-31 as North Carolina Heat Awareness Week to bring attention to key programs that keep North Carolinians safe and to bring awareness to ongoing climate warming trends.

    “North Carolina state agencies and community partners are working to make sure North Carolinians have the resources they need to stay safe when temperatures soar,” said Governor Josh Stein. “North Carolina is preparing for another summer of record heat. While you are outside this summer, please take the necessary steps to prevent heat exhaustion and illness.”

    Communities across the state are encouraged to prepare for high summer temperatures. Several communities across North Carolina experienced their hottest days ever recorded in 2024, and 2025 is likely to continue this trend. There were 4,688 heat-related illness emergency department visits in the summer of 2024, a nearly 20% increase from 2023.

    The state Resiliency Program has provided critical support to North Carolina communities as they prepare and develop plans for reducing local impacts of extreme heat. Last year, the program launched the Heat Action Plan Toolkit in collaboration with NCDHHS, North Carolina State Climate Office, and Duke University Heat Policy Innovation Hub. The toolkit includes a template for creating a heat action plan, public outreach resources, checklists, and protocols that can be customized in advance of and during heat wave events. In December 2024, the Resiliency Program and North Carolina State Climate Office partnered to launch the Planning for Extreme Heat Cohort to help North Carolina communities develop local heat action plans. In addition, the NC Resilience Exchange website provides a complete collection of resources to help local and state leaders easily find climate resilience information relevant to their area.

    Budget and staffing cuts at federal agencies like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have put programs that support heat safety at risk, including the state heat health alert system, the Heat-Related Illness Surveillance System, and a farmworker health training program. 

    “Our environmental health and epidemiology teams conduct critical work every day to inform North Carolinians of potential health effects of extreme heat, as well as ensure resources are available for those who experience heat-related illness,” said Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “Cuts to these services would be detrimental to the health and well-being of the more than 11 million people who call North Carolina home.”

    Among weather-related hazards, extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of deaths each year. Recognizing the symptoms of heat illness is key to preventing serious complications, including death. Some signs and symptoms include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, racing or weak pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, and nausea or vomiting. 

    While heat-related illnesses can affect anyone regardless of age or physical condition, outdoor workers, infants and children, older adults, pregnant people, athletes, low-income individuals and people with underlying health conditions are at a disproportionate risk of experiencing adverse health effects.

    Additionally, NCDHHS Operation Fan Heat Relief is underway through Oct. 31, 2025. Visit DHHS’s website to see if you qualify for a free fan for the hot summer months.  

    Read Governor Stein’s full proclamation designating Heat Awareness Week. 

    May 27, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How to create a thriving forest, not box-checking ‘tree cover’

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Thomas Murphy, Lecturer in Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth

    A Chinese proverb says that the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, and the second best time is today. But it’s not easy to ensure the trees of today actually become the healthy, functioning forests of tomorrow.

    This is a key issue in the UK, which recently announced it will plant 20 million trees to create a new “national forest” in the west of England. Given the UK is one of the least forested countries in Europe, and one of the most nature-depleted in the world, more trees are definitely needed.

    But I know from years of trying to research and restore native forest on Dartmoor in the south west of England, that creating healthy forests requires attention to detail. Unless we are careful, these new woodlands might damage rather than improve the environment: 20 million non-native conifers (or any single tree species), densely planted row on row is not a recipe for a healthy or resilient forest.

    So what could a successful forest expansion look like – and how could the UK get there?

    Forests for the future

    When planting a sapling, we are starting a journey not reaching a destination.
    The aim isn’t to just grow dense forests everywhere, but to create a diverse “treescape” that includes woodland, pasture, orchards and hedgerows. Including glades and clearings allow plants and animals from the surrounding landscape to move in, helping to create a richer, more complex forest over time.

    A wild pony hangs out in a glade in the New Forest in southern England.
    Helen Hotson / shutterstock

    In this ideal future, Britain’s bigger, more diverse, and better joined-up forests would have a higher chance of coping with the hotter summers, wetter winters and other climate changes including extreme weather. That’s because these larger more connected forests limit whats is known as the “edge effect” where the benefits of the forest’s microclimate is reduced. Having more different tree species – mostly native but not always – would help these woodlands cope with, and adapt to, the projected increase in pests, disease and other environmental stresses.

    These larger more biodiverse woodlands would also store more carbon in trees, soils and decaying wood. Research I published with colleagues showed new native forests can alleviate flood risk rather quickly too. Over time, many could also provide timber for low-carbon construction, and charcoal-like “biochar”.

    Where to grow a forest – and how

    Creating woodland for biodiversity and these wider benefits requires planning and management. This can be done by studying the land beforehand – looking at habitats, soils and the animals that graze there, but importantly considering the wider landscape. Digital tools can model a combination of land features, climate and other data to help planners decide where trees should be targeted for the biggest wins, especially as the climate changes.

    The idea is to support, not replace, Britain’s many existing ancient trees. Some new forests would help buffer woodlands from damage at their edges, while others help connect isolated forest fragments and lone trees.

    For example, in Britain’s wet valleys where temperate rainforests could grow, saplings planted in the 2020s might provide new homes for rare lichens and mosses. This will help shield highly vulnerable sites such as Wistmans Wood on Dartmoor from changes in climate.

    Restoring these rainforests will usually require active control of grazing animals. One promising solution is to plant small, carefully chosen patches of diverse tree species and protect them at first from the sheep, cattle, ponies and deer that eat young trees. Over time, through a process known as “applied nucleation”, these patches could help trees naturally spread, creating a mix of woodland and pasture.

    On Britain’s moorlands, hungry animals eat saplings before they can turn into fully-grown (and less tasty) trees.
    Digital Wildlife Scotland / shutterstock

    It’s true that sapling-munching deer have surged to unsustainable levels, and many uplands areas in particular are overgrazed by sheep. However, when moderated and managed carefully, these animals are essential ingredients for dynamic forests. Grazing, browsing and rootling (pigs and wild boar) animals create glades and clearings, and support natural processes. Trees and forests in return provide animals with forage, shade, shelter and more.

    We should embrace the potential for mutual benefit between animals and forests. By integrating more trees and forests into agricultural areas we may even make both our forests more dynamic and our agricultural areas more resilient.

    Local leadership and community roots

    The public generally considers tree planting a positive thing, but local people often feel left out of the process and its benefits. Getting them onboard and involved is critical. That’s particularly the case in Britain’s northern and western uplands, where few trees are left and many people feel threatened by national woodland policies that might affect how they use the land.

    Moor Trees community tree nurseries on Dartmoor, or collectively owned and community forests in 15 regions of England show there are ways to get locals involved and empowered.

    Larger forests near towns and cities would offer more space for recreation and education, taking pressure off smaller and more fragile woodlands. In the urban areas themselves, we could grow more micro “Miyawacki” forests. These are tennis court-sized areas of diverse and densely packed native trees, which allow children to connect with nature every day in their school grounds (the UK already has more than 280 such forests).

    Tree planting is only a start

    This is a rather optimistic vision for the future, of course. To get there, we’ll have to learn from experience. That means tracking what works and involving local people in citizen science. These projects not only help gather valuable data, they also give volunteers a meaningful experience and support their appreciation of the natural world.

    There are plenty of recommended guidelines for forest restoration, but turning young trees into healthy resilient woodlands isn’t about following a strict rulebook. Instead, success will come from using a range of strategies – working with local communities, supporting natural processes and adapting over time based on what is shown to work.

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

    – ref. How to create a thriving forest, not box-checking ‘tree cover’ – https://theconversation.com/how-to-create-a-thriving-forest-not-box-checking-tree-cover-254160

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Efforts to remove wrecked and abandoned vessels

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has directed the urgent removal of wrecked and abandoned vessels that pose significant risks to navigation, marine ecosystems, and the safety of coastal communities.

    These efforts reflect the bold steps being taken to address longstanding environmental and safety complexities in South Africa’s proclaimed fishing harbours, including Gordons Bay, Lamberts Bay, Saldanha Bay, St Helena Bay and Hout Bay.

    “For too long, these derelict vessels have been a blight on our harbours, endangering our marine environment and the safety of those who rely on these waters. I am committed to reversing this legacy of neglect and ensuring our coastal infrastructure supports both environmental sustainability and economic prosperity,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

    Under the authority of the Wreck and Salvage Act 94 of 1996, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has issued Marine Information Notice MIN 08-25, directing the owners of identified wrecks to remove their vessels by 16 June 2025. 

    Failure to comply by this date will result in further action by the authorities, with costs recoverable from the owners as stipulated in the Act.

    According to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment the removal of these wrecks will enhance the safety of harbours, protect marine biodiversity, and support the livelihoods of communities that depend on these waters. 

    “Our harbours are vital to our coastal communities and marine ecosystems. By removing these wrecks, we are safeguarding our oceans for future generations and creating safer, more sustainable hubs for maritime activities,” George said.

    The department, in consultation with SAMSA, will ensure that the process is conducted responsibly, prioritising environmental protection and compliance with legal frameworks. 

    The Minister has called on all vessel owners to cooperate fully with this directive and contact SAMSA promptly to arrange compliance by 16 June 2025.

    “I urge vessel owners to act swiftly and responsibly to meet the 16 June 2025 deadline. Together, we can restore the vibrancy of our harbours and protect the natural heritage of our coastline,” he said.

    For further details, refer to the SAMSA Marine Information Notice MIN 08-25, available at www.samsa.org.za, or contact SAMSA at marinenotices@samsa.org.za. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE launches capacity-building series on virtual assets taxation in Moldova

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE launches capacity-building series on virtual assets taxation in Moldova

    Participants learning about virtual assets taxation at a workshop organized by the OSCE, Chisinau, 26 May 2025. (OSCE) Photo details

    Practitioners from Moldova’s State Tax Service and the Ministry of Finance worked to enhance their understanding of virtual assets, their tax implications, and effective regulation and compliance mechanisms at a workshop organized by the OSCE from 26 to 27 May in Chisinau.
    “It is very important to understand the tax aspects of the legal framework concerning virtual assets to clarify how we quantify the income and pay taxes for virtual assets,” said Olga Golban, Director of the State Tax Service. She highlighted the risks associated with unregulated virtual assets, including tax fraud and tax evasion.
    The two-day workshop provided an overview of international good practices for the taxation of virtual assets, tax avoidance schemes, the EU regulatory framework, among other topics. Participants also had the opportunity to explore blockchain technology through simulation exercises.
    “As virtual assets and cryptocurrencies continue to expand in scope and complexity, tax authorities around the world face both opportunities and challenges. Today’s workshop explores the topic of virtual assets taxation, good practices from different jurisdictions, and what we can do to better co-ordinate across borders while combating tax evasion,” said Vera Strobachova-Budway, Senior Economic Officer and Head of the Economic Governance Unit at the OSCE.
    This workshop marked the first of two workshops to set the foundation for enhancing Moldova’s institutional capacity to effectively address taxation challenges posed by virtual assets. A follow-up workshop is planned to take place in June.
    These workshops are being organized as part of the OSCE extrabudgetary project, “Innovative policy solutions to mitigate money-laundering risks of virtual assets”, implemented by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, which is financially supported by Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, the United Kingdom and the United States.

    MIL OSI Europe News –