President Donald Trump travels to Iowa on Thursday to kick off celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary next year and to tout recent trade and legislative actions to heartland voters who helped propel his return to the White House.
Trump will deliver a campaign-style speech at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, a familiar stop for presidential candidates in the early primary state. Trump won Iowa’s 2024 Republican caucuses by a historically large margin and carried the state by 13 percentage points in the general election.
His latest visit comes ahead of a Friday deadline he set for Congress to pass his sweeping tax and spending legislation, a cornerstone of his second-term domestic agenda that touches everything from immigration to energy policy.
In remarks mixing patriotism and policy, Trump will aim to reassure Iowa’s voters that his administration is defending their interests and delivering tangible results, according to a person with knowledge of the speech.
Trump’s trade policies have whipsawed agricultural communities in Iowa, creating economic uncertainty and testing loyalties. Iowa farmers have been hit hard, especially with China’s retaliatory tariffs slashing soybean exports and prices.
In a Truth Social post on Tuesday announcing his trip, Trump called Iowa “one of my favorite places in the world.”
“I’ll also tell you some of the GREAT things I’ve already done on Trade, especially as it relates to Farmers. You are going to be very happy with what I say,” Trump said.
At recent Republican town halls in Iowa, tensions flared as farmers and constituents pressed congressional leaders, including Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, to push back against Trump’s retaliatory tariffs.
Some Republicans also worry that deep cuts to the Medicaid health program in their sweeping tax bill will hurt the party’s prospects in the 2026 midterm elections.
Trump has made several memorable trips to the Iowa State Fairgrounds. In 2015, the reality TV star and presidential candidate gave children rides on his personal helicopter as he aimed to overshadow Democratic rival Hillary Clinton.
In 2023, Trump’s private jet buzzed low over the crowds in another flashy power move, stealing the spotlight from primary rival Ron DeSantis as he campaigned on the ground below.
VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, continues to demonstrate exceptional financial strength with its latest bi-monthly Proof of Reserve (POR) audit showing sustained growth and improved reserve coverage across all major cryptocurrencies. The June 2025 report reveals enhanced security ratios and continued expansion of the platform’s asset holdings, reinforcing MEXC’s position as a trusted and financially robust trading platform.
Strengthened Reserve Coverage Across All Major Assets
The latest audit confirms that MEXC maintains comprehensive over-collateralization across all major cryptocurrencies, with notable improvements in reserve ratios compared to the April 2025 report:
MEXC Reserve Ratio Comparison (June 2025 vs April 2025)
The most significant enhancement comes from Bitcoin reserves, which increased by over 10 percentage points to 127.59%, representing the highest reserve ratio among all tracked assets and demonstrating MEXC’s strengthened position in the leading cryptocurrency.
Current Published Wallet Assets (June 2025)
Major Cryptocurrency Holdings:
BTC: 4,083.89 Bitcoin
ETH: 69,234.39 Ethereum
USDT: 2,320,959,680.22 Tether
USDC: 72,357,584.50 USD Coin
These holdings represent substantial reserves that exceed 100% coverage across all major cryptocurrencies, ensuring complete backing of user deposits with additional security buffers.
Strategic Portfolio Optimization and Enhanced Stablecoin Liquidity
The period from April to June 2025 demonstrates MEXC’s strategic approach to portfolio optimization and risk management. While maintaining robust Bitcoin reserve coverage at 127.59%, the platform has significantly strengthened its stablecoin position:
Stablecoin Reserve Enhancement:
USDT Holdings: Increased from 2,242,291,463.26 to 2,320,959,680.22 (+78,668,216.96 USDT)
USDC Holdings: Grew from 72,265,212.89 to 72,357,584.50 (+92,371.61 USDC)
Combined Stablecoin Growth: $78.8 million in additional stablecoin reserves
This strategic rebalancing toward increased stablecoin holdings provides enhanced liquidity and stability for user operations, ensuring MEXC can meet withdrawal demands efficiently even during periods of market volatility.
MEXC’s bi-monthly Proof of Reserve audits continue to set industry standards for transparency and accountability. The consistent publication of these comprehensive reports allows users to independently verify asset backing through publicly available blockchain data, ensuring complete transparency in the platform’s financial operations.
Key Transparency Features:
Bi-monthly audits ensuring regular verification of reserves
Public blockchain verification allowing independent confirmation of holdings
Complete asset coverage with reserves exceeding 100% across all major cryptocurrencies
Real-time accessibility of reserve data for user verification
Comprehensive Security Architecture Protecting User Assets
MEXC’s multi-layered security framework continues to evolve, providing robust protection for user funds: Enhanced Security Measures:
Over-Collateralization: All major assets maintain reserves exceeding 100%, with Bitcoin leading at 127.59%
Insurance Fund Protection: Additional safeguards against extreme market volatility
Regular Third-Party Audits: Bi-monthly verification ensuring continued compliance and accuracy
Advanced Cold Storage: Majority of user funds secured in offline wallets with institutional-grade protection
Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous surveillance of reserve levels and security protocols
Platform Growth and User-Centric Innovation
Beyond financial security, MEXC continues to enhance its platform offerings that have attracted over 40 million users worldwide: M – Most Trending Tokens: Over 3,000 listed tokens providing diverse investment opportunities E – Everyday Airdrops: Simplified participation in daily airdrop events with substantial rewards X – Xtremely Low Fees: Competitive trading fees maximizing user returns C – Comprehensive Liquidity: Deep market liquidity ensuring efficient trade execution
These features, combined with MEXC’s proven financial stability, continue to position the platform as the preferred choice for traders seeking both security and opportunity in the cryptocurrency market. As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, MEXC remains dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of financial transparency and security. The consistent over-collateralization demonstrated in this latest report reinforces the platform’s commitment to user protection and sets the foundation for continued growth.
About MEXC
Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding. MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC
Risk Disclaimer: The information provided in this article about cryptocurrencies does not represent MEXC’s official stance or investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully evaluate market fluctuations, project fundamentals, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at :
A new flood barrier is being built to prevent climate-induced Flooding in Chittagong in Bangladesh. amdadphoto/Shutterstock.com
At a coastal port in Chittagong, Bangladesh, something remarkable is underway. With support from a US$850 million (£620 million) investment from the World Bank, engineers are building flood-resistant infrastructure that can survive rising seas and stronger storms. A new 3.7-mile-long barrier will protect people, homes, and trade in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions.
Projects like this do more than save lives. They show why investing in climate
adaptation is one of the smartest financial opportunities of our time. There are plenty of global conferences where leaders discuss climate change and make big
promises. Yet, less than 5.5% ofglobal climate finance actually reaches the countries most at risk. That is not just a failure of fairness. It is a missed chance for real impact.
As the world gathers in Seville, Spain for the fourth international meeting on development financing, the focus must go beyond pledges and shift toward practical, on-the-ground investment in resilience.
At the previous UN climate finance meeting, also held in Seville, leaders focused
on fixing how public money flows through global institutions. But just as important is the need to invest in climate adaptation. This means helping people live with the changes already happening, including more floods, longer droughts, rising seas and intense heat.
While mitigation is about stopping climate change getting worse (by switching to clean energy or protecting forests that absorb carbon, for example), adaptation is about coping with the effects we can no longer avoid. It includes building stronger homes, growing more resilient crops, and improving hospitals and schools so they can keep working during extreme weather. Both approaches are necessary, but adaptation often gets less attention. And less money.
Private investors have already committed large sums to clean energy projects. But they have done much less to support communities on the frontlines of climate change. Many of these countries struggle with limited budgets, complex rules for accessing finance, and a lack of support to develop viable projects. So promising ideas often go unfunded.
That is beginning to change. New tools are helping investors take on less risk and back more projects. These include low-interest loans, partnerships between public and private institutions, and guarantees that reduce the risk of failure.
The Green Climate Fund is the largest source of dedicated climate finance for developing countries. By the end of 2023, it had approved US$13.5 billion in funding, rising to US$51.9 billion when co-financing is included. This money helps unlock adaptation efforts that were previously out of reach.
We can already see progress. In Kenya and Ethiopia, farmers are using drought-resistant seeds to grow more food in changing conditions. In the Caribbean, solar energy is powering schools and clinics in remote communities. And in Bangladesh, the new port infrastructure in Chittagong is protecting a vital economic hub while boosting local businesses.
Working with nature
In coastal areas, restoring mangrove forests can reduce the force of incoming storms, protect biodiversity and support fisheries. The Pollination Group, a climate investment firm, is helping turn “nature-based solutions” like these into projects that attract private finance.
In his previous role as the Prince of Wales, King Charles III launched the Natural Capital Investment Alliance, an initiative that aims to mobilise US$10 billion for projects that restore and protect nature while offering solid financial returns. The alliance also helps investors better understand these kinds of opportunities by creating clearer guidance and standards. This supports the Terra Carta, a charter created by King Charles III that offers a roadmap for businesses to align with the needs of both people and the planet by 2030.
Investors who step into these emerging spaces gain more than financial returns. They build long-term relationships with governments and local communities. They help shape future policy. And they create lasting foundations for growth in places that are ready to lead if given the chance.
Adaptation projects also bring real benefits to people. They improve access to clean water, protect food supplies, create jobs, strengthen education and support healthcare systems. For families already facing climate disruption, these changes are not just improvements. They are lifelines.
By creating stable and welcoming environments for responsible investment, governments can accelerate this shift. By simplifying how money is accessed, international institutions can make it easier for good ideas to become funded projects. Philanthropic groups and development agencies can help build local skills and prepare projects for funding. Private investors can bring capital, innovation and experience.
Investing in climate adaptation is no longer just a moral issue. It is a smart, scalable and necessary response to a changing world.
Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?
Ali Serim 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.
The global ecosystem of climate finance is complex, constantly changing and sometimes hard to understand. But understanding it is critical to demanding a green transition that’s just and fair. That’s why The Conversation has collaborated with climate finance experts to create this user-friendly guide, in partnership with Vogue Business. With definitions and short videos, we’ll add to this glossary as new terms emerge.
Blue bonds
Blue bonds are debt instruments designed to finance ocean-related conservation, like protecting coral reefs or sustainable fishing. They’re modelled after green bonds but focus specifically on the health of marine ecosystems – this is a key pillar of climate stability.
By investing in blue bonds, governments and private investors can fund marine projects that deliver both environmental benefits and long-term financial returns. Seychelles issued the first blue bond in 2018. Now, more are emerging as ocean conservation becomes a greater priority for global sustainability efforts.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Carbon border adjustment mechanism
Did you know that imported steel could soon face a carbon tax at the EU border? That’s because the carbon border adjustment mechanism is about to shake up the way we trade, produce and price carbon.
The carbon border adjustment mechanism is a proposed EU policy to put a carbon price on imports like iron, cement, fertiliser, aluminium and electricity. If a product is made in a country with weaker climate policies, the importer must pay the difference between that country’s carbon price and the EU’s. The goal is to avoid “carbon leakage” – when companies relocate to avoid emissions rules and to ensure fair competition on climate action.
But this mechanism is more than just a tariff tool. It’s a bold attempt to reshape global trade. Countries exporting to the EU may be pushed to adopt greener manufacturing or face higher tariffs.
The carbon border adjustment mechanism is controversial: some call it climate protectionism, others argue it could incentivise low-carbon innovation worldwide and be vital for achieving climate justice. Many developing nations worry it could penalise them unfairly unless there’s climate finance to support greener transitions.
Carbon border adjustment mechanism is still evolving, but it’s already forcing companies, investors and governments to rethink emissions accounting, supply chains and competitiveness. It’s a carbon price with global consequences.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Carbon budget
The Paris agreement aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2030. The carbon budget is the maximum amount of CO₂ emissions allowed, if we want a 67% chance of staying within this limit. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimates that the remaining carbon budgets amount to 400 billion tonnes of CO₂ from 2020 onwards.
Think of the carbon budget as a climate allowance. Once it has been spent, the risk of extreme weather or sea level rise increases sharply. If emissions continue unchecked, the budget will be exhausted within years, risking severe climate consequences. The IPCC sets the global carbon budget based on climate science, and governments use this framework to set national emission targets, climate policies and pathways to net zero emissions.
By Dongna Zhang, assistant professor in economics and finance, Northumbria University
Carbon credits
Carbon credits are like a permit that allow companies to release a certain amount of carbon into the air. One credit usually equals one tonne of CO₂. These credits are issued by the local government or another authorised body and can be bought and sold. Think of it like a budget allowance for pollution. It encourages cuts in carbon emissions each year to stay within those global climate targets.
The aim is to put a price on carbon to encourage cuts in emissions. If a company reduces its emissions and has leftover credits, it can sell them to another company that is going over its limit. But there are issues. Some argue that carbon credit schemes allow polluters to pay their way out of real change, and not all credits are from trustworthy projects. Although carbon credits can play a role in addressing the climate crisis, they are not a solution on their own.
By Sankar Sivarajah, professor of circular economy, Kingston University London
Carbon credits explained.
Carbon offsetting
Carbon offsetting is a way for people or organisations to make up for the carbon emissions they are responsible for. For example, if you contribute to emissions by flying, driving or making goods, you can help balance that out by supporting projects that reduce emissions elsewhere. This might include planting trees (which absorb carbon dioxide) or building wind farms to produce renewable energy.
The idea is that your support helps cancel out the damage you are doing. For example, if your flight creates one tonne of carbon dioxide, you pay to support a project that removes the same amount.
While this sounds like a win-win, carbon offsetting is not perfect. Some argue that it lets people feel better without really changing their behaviour, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as greenwashing.
Not all projects are effective or well managed. For instance, some tree planting initiatives might have taken place anyway, even without the offset funding, deeming your contribution inconsequential. Others might plant the non-native trees in areas where they are unlikely to reach their potential in terms of absorbing carbon emissions.
So, offsetting can help, but it is no magic fix. It works best alongside real efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage low-carbon lifestyles or supply chains.
By Sankar Sivarajah, professor of circular economy, Kingston University London
Carbon offsetting explained.
Carbon tax
A carbon tax is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by placing a direct price on CO₂ and other greenhouse gases.
A carbon tax is grounded in the concept of the social cost of carbon. This is an estimate of the economic damage caused by emitting one tonne of CO₂, including climate-related health, infrastructure and ecosystem impacts.
A carbon tax is typically levied per tonne of CO₂ emitted. The tax can be applied either upstream (on fossil fuel producers) or downstream (on consumers or power generators). This makes carbon-intensive activities more expensive, it incentivises nations, businesses and people to reduce their emissions, while untaxed renewable energy becomes more competitively priced and appealing.
Carbon tax was first introduced by Finland in 1990. Since then, more than 39 jurisdictions have implemented similar schemes. According to the World Bank, carbon pricing mechanisms (that’s both carbon taxes and emissions trading systems) now cover about 24% of global emissions. The remaining 76% are not priced, mainly due to limited coverage in both sectors and geographical areas, plus persistent fossil fuel subsidies. Expanding coverage would require extending carbon pricing to sectors like agriculture and transport, phasing out fossil fuel subsidies and strengthening international governance.
What is carbon tax?
Sweden has one of the world’s highest carbon tax rates and has cut emissions by 33% since 1990 while maintaining economic growth. The policy worked because Sweden started early, applied the tax across many industries and maintained clear, consistent communication that kept the public on board.
Canada introduced a national carbon tax in 2019. In Canada, most of the revenue from carbon taxes is returned directly to households through annual rebates, making the scheme revenue-neutral for most families. However, despite its economic logic, inflation and rising fuel prices led to public discontent – especially as many citizens were unaware they were receiving rebates.
Carbon taxes face challenges including political resistance, fairness concerns and low public awareness. Their success depends on clear communication and visible reinvestment of revenues into climate or social goals. A 2025 study that surveyed 40,000 people in 20 countries found that support for carbon taxes increases significantly when revenues are used for environmental infrastructure, rather than returned through tax rebates.
By Meilan Yan, associate professor and senior lecturer in financial economics, Loughborough University
Climate resilience
Floods, wildfires, heatwaves and rising seas are pushing our cities, towns and neighbourhoods to their limits. But there’s a powerful idea that’s helping cities fight back: climate resilience.
Resilience refers to the ability of a system, such as a city, a community or even an ecosystem – to anticipate, prepare for, respond to and recover from climate-related shocks and stresses.
Sometimes people say resilience is about bouncing back. But it’s not just about surviving the next storm. It’s about adapting, evolving and thriving in a changing world.
Resilience means building smarter and better. It means designing homes that stay cool during heatwaves. Roads that don’t wash away in floods. Power grids that don’t fail when the weather turns extreme.
It’s also about people. A truly resilient city protects its most vulnerable. It ensures that everyone – regardless of income, age or background – can weather the storm.
And resilience isn’t just reactive. It’s about using science, local knowledge and innovation to reduce a risk before disaster strikes. From restoring wetlands to cool cities and absorb floods, to creating early warning systems for heatwaves, climate resilience is about weaving strength into the very fabric of our cities.
By Paul O’Hare, senior lecturer in geography and development, Manchester Metropolitan University
The meaning of climate resilience.
Climate risk disclosure
Climate risk disclosure refers to how companies report the risks they face from climate change, such as flood damage, supply chain disruptions or regulatory costs. It includes both physical risks (like storms) and transition risks (like changing laws or consumer preferences).
Mandatory disclosures, such as those proposed by the UK and EU, aim to make climate-related risks transparent to investors. Done well, these reports can shape capital flows toward more sustainable business models. Done poorly, they become greenwashing tools.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Emissions trading scheme
An emissions trading scheme is the primary market-based approach for regulating greenhouse gas emissions in many countries, including Australia, Canada, China and Mexico.
Part of a government’s job is to decide how much of the economy’s carbon emissions it wants to avoid in order to fight climate change. It must put a cap on carbon emissions that economic production is not allowed to surpass. Preferably, the polluters (that’s the manufacturers, fossil fuel companies) should be the ones paying for the cost of climate mitigation.
Regulators could simply tell all the firms how much they are allowed to emit over the next ten years or so. But giving every firm the same allowance across the board is not cost efficient, because avoiding carbon emissions is much harder for some firms (such as steel producers) than others (such as tax consultants). Since governments cannot know each firm’s specific cost profile either, it can’t customise the allowances. Also, monitoring whether polluters actually abide by their assigned limits is extremely costly.
An emissions trading scheme cleverly solves this dilemma using the cap-and-trade mechanism. Instead of assigning each polluter a fixed quota and risking inefficiencies, the government issues a large number of tradable permits – each worth, say, a tonne of CO₂-equivalent (CO₂e) – that sum up to the cap. Firms that can cut greenhouse gas emissions relatively cheaply can then trade their surplus permits to those who find it harder – at a price that makes both better off.
By Mathias Weidinger, environmental economist, University of Oxford
Emissions trading schemes, explained by climate finance expert Mathias Weidinger.
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing
ESG investing stands for environmental, social and governance investing. In simple terms, these are a set of standards that investors use to screen a company’s potential investments.
ESG means choosing to invest in companies that are not only profitable but also responsible. Investors use ESG metrics to assess risks (such as climate liability, labour practices) and align portfolios with sustainability goals by looking at how a company affects our planet and treats its people and communities. While there isn’t one single global body governing ESG, various organisations, ratings agencies and governments all contribute to setting and evolving these metrics.
For example, investing in a company committed to renewable energy and fair labour practices might be considered “ESG aligned”. Supporters believe ESG helps identify risks and create long-term value. Critics argue it can be vague or used for greenwashing, where companies appear sustainable without real action. ESG works best when paired with transparency and clear data. A barrier is that standards vary, and it’s not always clear what counts as ESG.
Why do financial companies and institutions care? Issues like climate change and nature loss pose significant risks, affecting company values and the global economy.
However, gathering reliable ESG information can be difficult. Companies often self-report, and the data isn’t always standardised or up to date. Researchers – including my team at the University of Oxford – are using geospatial data, like satellite imagery and artificial intelligence, to develop global databases for high-impact industries, across all major sectors and geographies, and independently assess environmental and social risks and impacts.
For instance, we can analyse satellite images of a facility over time to monitor its emissions effect on nature and biodiversity, or assess deforestation linked to a company’s supply chain. This allows us to map supply chains, identify high-impact assets, and detect hidden risks and opportunities in key industries, providing an objective, real-time look at their environmental footprint.
The goal is for this to improve ESG ratings and provide clearer, more consistent insights for investors. This approach could help us overcome current data limitations to build a more sustainable financial future.
By Amani Maalouf, senior researcher in spatial finance, University of Oxford
Environmental, social and governance investing explained.
Financed emissions
Financed emissions are the greenhouse gas emissions linked to a bank’s or investor’s lending and investment portfolio, rather than their own operations. For example, a bank that funds a coal mine or invests in fossil fuels is indirectly responsible for the carbon those activities produce.
Measuring financed emissions helps reveal the real climate impact of financial institutions not just their office energy use. It’s a cornerstone of climate accountability in finance and is becoming essential under net zero pledges.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Green bonds
Green bonds are loans issued to fund environmentally beneficial projects, such as energy-efficient buildings or clean transportation. Investors choose them to support climate solutions while earning returns.
Green bonds are a major tool to finance the shift to a low-carbon economy by directing finance toward climate solutions. As climate costs rise, green bonds could help close the funding gap while ensuring transparency and accountability.
Green bonds are required to ensure funds are spent as promised. For instance, imagine a city wants to upgrade its public transportation by adding electric buses to reduce pollution. Instead of raising taxes or slashing other budgets, the city can issue green bonds to raise the necessary capital. Investors buy the bonds, the city gets the funding, and the environment benefits from cleaner air and fewer emissions.
The growing participation of government issuers has improved the transparency and reliability of these investments. The green bond market has grown rapidly in recent years. According to the Bank for International Settlements, the green bond market reached US$2.9 trillion (£2.1 trillion) in 2024 – nearly six times larger than in 2018. At the same time, annual issuance (the total value of green bonds issued in a year) hit US$700 billion, highlighting the increasing role of green finance in tackling climate change.
By Dongna Zhang, assistant professor in economics and finance, Northumbria University
Just transition
Just transition is the process of moving to a low-carbon society that is environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive. In a broad sense, a just transition means focusing on creating a more fair and equal society.
Just transition has existed as a concept since the 1970s. It was originally applied to the green energy transition, protecting workers in the fossil fuel industry as we move towards more sustainable alternatives.
These days, it has so many overlapping issues of justice hidden within it, so the concept is hard to define. Even at the level of UN climate negotiations, global leaders struggle to agree on what a just transition means.
The big battle is between developed countries, who want a very restrictive definition around jobs and skills, and developing countries, who are looking for a much more holistic approach that considers wider system change and includes considerations around human rights, Indigenous people and creating an overall fairer global society.
A just transition is essentially about imagining a future where we have moved beyond fossil fuels and society works better for everyone – but that can look very different in a European city compared to a rural setting in south-east Asia.
For example, in a British city it might mean fewer cars and better public transport. In a rural setting, it might mean new ways of growing crops that are more sustainable, and building homes that are heatwave resistant.
By Alix Dietzel, climate justice and climate policy expert, University of Bristol
The meaning of just transition.
Loss and damage
A global loss and damage fund was agreed by nations at the UN climate summit (Cop27) in 2022. This means that the rich countries of the world put money into a fund that the least developed countries can then call upon when they have a climate emergency.
At the moment, the loss and damage fund is made up of relatively small pots of money. Much more will be needed to provide relief to those who need it most now and in the future.
By Mark Maslin, professor of earth system science, UCL
Mark Maslin explains loss and damage.
Mitigation v adaptation
Mitigation means cutting greenhouse gas emissions to slow climate change. Adaptation means adjusting to its effects, like building sea walls or growing heat-resistant crops. Both are essential: mitigation tackles the cause, while adaptation tackles the symptoms.
Globally, most funding goes to mitigation, but vulnerable communities often need adaptation support most. Balancing the two is a major challenge in climate policy, especially for developing countries facing immediate climate threats.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Nationally determined contributions
Nationally determined contributions (NDCs) are at the heart of the Paris agreement, the global effort to collectively combat climate change. NDCs are individual climate action plans created by each country. These targets and strategies outline how a country will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change.
Each nation sets its own goals based on its own circumstances and capabilities – there’s no standard NDC. These plans should be updated every five years and countries are encouraged to gradually increase their climate ambitions over time.
The aim is for NDCs to drive real action by guiding policies, attracting investment and inspiring innovation in clean technologies. But current NDCs fall short of the Paris agreement goals and many countries struggle to turn their plans into a reality. NDCs also vary widely in scope and detail so it’s hard to compare efforts across the board. Stronger international collaboration and greater accountability will be crucial.
By Doug Specht, reader in cultural geography and communication, University of Westminster
Fashion depends on water, soil and biodiversity – all natural capital. And forward-thinking designers are now asking: how do we create rather than deplete, how do we restore rather than extract?
Natural capital is the value assigned to the stock of forests, soils, oceans and even minerals such as lithium. It sustains every part of our economy. It’s the bees that pollinate our crops. It’s the wetlands that filter our water and it’s the trees that store carbon and cool our cities.
If we fail to value nature properly, we risk losing it. But if we succeed, we unlock a future that is not only sustainable but also truly regenerative.
My team at the University of Oxford is developing tools to integrate nature into national balance sheets, advising governments on biodiversity, and we’re helping industries from fashion to finance embed nature into their decision making.
Natural capital, explained by a climate finance expert.
By Mette Morsing, professor of business sustainability and director of the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment, University of Oxford
Net zero
Reaching net zero means reducing the amount of additional greenhouse gas emissions that accumulate in the atmosphere to zero. This concept was popularised by the Paris agreement, a landmark deal that was agreed at the UN climate summit (Cop21) in 2015 to limit the impact of greenhouse gas emissions.
There are some emissions, from farming and aviation for example, that will be very difficult, if not impossible, to reach absolute zero. Hence, the “net”. This allows people, businesses and countries to find ways to suck greenhouse gas emissions out of the atmosphere, effectively cancelling out emissions while trying to reduce them. This can include reforestation, rewilding, direct air capture and carbon capture and storage. The goal is to reach net zero: the point at which no extra greenhouse gases accumulate in Earth’s atmosphere.
By Mark Maslin, professor of earth system science, UCL
Mark Maslin explains net zero.
For more expert explainer videos, visit The Conversation’s quick climate dictionary playlist here on YouTube.
Mark Maslin is Pro-Vice Provost of the UCL Climate Crisis Grand Challenge and Founding Director of the UCL Centre for Sustainable Aviation. He was co-director of the London NERC Doctoral Training Partnership and is a member of the Climate Crisis Advisory Group. He is an advisor to Sheep Included Ltd, Lansons, NetZeroNow and has advised the UK Parliament. He has received grant funding from the NERC, EPSRC, ESRC, DFG, Royal Society, DIFD, BEIS, DECC, FCO, Innovate UK, Carbon Trust, UK Space Agency, European Space Agency, Research England, Wellcome Trust, Leverhulme Trust, CIFF, Sprint2020, and British Council. He has received funding from the BBC, Lancet, Laithwaites, Seventh Generation, Channel 4, JLT Re, WWF, Hermes, CAFOD, HP and Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.
Amani Maalouf receives funding from IKEA Foundation and UK Research and Innovation (NE/V017756/1).
Narmin Nahidi is affiliated with several academic associations, including the Financial Management Association (FMA), British Accounting and Finance Association (BAFA), American Finance Association (AFA), and the Chartered Association of Business Schools (CMBE). These affiliations do not influence the content of this article.
Paul O’Hare receives funding from the UK’s Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). Award reference NE/V010174/1.
Alix Dietzel, Dongna Zhang, Doug Specht, Mathias Weidinger, Meilan Yan, and Sankar Sivarajah do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Liverpool’s Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, 28, died in a car crash near Zamora in northwestern Spain with his brother, the Portuguese Football Federation said on Thursday.
The regional fire department of Castile and Leon, where Zamora is located, said on its website a car crashed early on Thursday, shortly after midnight, and burst into flames, with two men, aged 28 and 26, found dead.
“We have lost two champions. Their deaths represent irreparable losses for Portuguese football, and we will do everything we can to honour their legacy every day,” the Portuguese Football Federation said in a statement.
Spanish police told Reuters they could not yet officially confirm the names of the deceased, but everything pointed to it being Jota and his brother. The Lamborghini they were travelling veered off the road, the spokesperson said.
The bodies have been taken to a forensics unit in nearby Zamora where autopsies will be performed, they said.
Jota, who got married on June 28, helped Liverpool win the Premier League last season and also won the FA Cup and League Cup with the Merseyside outfit.
Jota arrived at Anfield from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 and scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for the club in all competitions.
He also made 49 appearances for Portugal, twice winning the UEFA Nations League.
The global ecosystem of climate finance is complex, constantly changing and sometimes hard to understand. But understanding it is critical to demanding a green transition that’s just and fair. That’s why The Conversation has collaborated with climate finance experts to create this user-friendly guide, in partnership with Vogue Business. With definitions and short videos, we’ll add to this glossary as new terms emerge.
Blue bonds
Blue bonds are debt instruments designed to finance ocean-related conservation, like protecting coral reefs or sustainable fishing. They’re modelled after green bonds but focus specifically on the health of marine ecosystems – this is a key pillar of climate stability.
By investing in blue bonds, governments and private investors can fund marine projects that deliver both environmental benefits and long-term financial returns. Seychelles issued the first blue bond in 2018. Now, more are emerging as ocean conservation becomes a greater priority for global sustainability efforts.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Carbon border adjustment mechanism
Did you know that imported steel could soon face a carbon tax at the EU border? That’s because the carbon border adjustment mechanism is about to shake up the way we trade, produce and price carbon.
The carbon border adjustment mechanism is a proposed EU policy to put a carbon price on imports like iron, cement, fertiliser, aluminium and electricity. If a product is made in a country with weaker climate policies, the importer must pay the difference between that country’s carbon price and the EU’s. The goal is to avoid “carbon leakage” – when companies relocate to avoid emissions rules and to ensure fair competition on climate action.
But this mechanism is more than just a tariff tool. It’s a bold attempt to reshape global trade. Countries exporting to the EU may be pushed to adopt greener manufacturing or face higher tariffs.
The carbon border adjustment mechanism is controversial: some call it climate protectionism, others argue it could incentivise low-carbon innovation worldwide and be vital for achieving climate justice. Many developing nations worry it could penalise them unfairly unless there’s climate finance to support greener transitions.
Carbon border adjustment mechanism is still evolving, but it’s already forcing companies, investors and governments to rethink emissions accounting, supply chains and competitiveness. It’s a carbon price with global consequences.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Carbon budget
The Paris agreement aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2030. The carbon budget is the maximum amount of CO₂ emissions allowed, if we want a 67% chance of staying within this limit. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimates that the remaining carbon budgets amount to 400 billion tonnes of CO₂ from 2020 onwards.
Think of the carbon budget as a climate allowance. Once it has been spent, the risk of extreme weather or sea level rise increases sharply. If emissions continue unchecked, the budget will be exhausted within years, risking severe climate consequences. The IPCC sets the global carbon budget based on climate science, and governments use this framework to set national emission targets, climate policies and pathways to net zero emissions.
By Dongna Zhang, assistant professor in economics and finance, Northumbria University
Carbon credits
Carbon credits are like a permit that allow companies to release a certain amount of carbon into the air. One credit usually equals one tonne of CO₂. These credits are issued by the local government or another authorised body and can be bought and sold. Think of it like a budget allowance for pollution. It encourages cuts in carbon emissions each year to stay within those global climate targets.
The aim is to put a price on carbon to encourage cuts in emissions. If a company reduces its emissions and has leftover credits, it can sell them to another company that is going over its limit. But there are issues. Some argue that carbon credit schemes allow polluters to pay their way out of real change, and not all credits are from trustworthy projects. Although carbon credits can play a role in addressing the climate crisis, they are not a solution on their own.
By Sankar Sivarajah, professor of circular economy, Kingston University London
Carbon credits explained.
Carbon offsetting
Carbon offsetting is a way for people or organisations to make up for the carbon emissions they are responsible for. For example, if you contribute to emissions by flying, driving or making goods, you can help balance that out by supporting projects that reduce emissions elsewhere. This might include planting trees (which absorb carbon dioxide) or building wind farms to produce renewable energy.
The idea is that your support helps cancel out the damage you are doing. For example, if your flight creates one tonne of carbon dioxide, you pay to support a project that removes the same amount.
While this sounds like a win-win, carbon offsetting is not perfect. Some argue that it lets people feel better without really changing their behaviour, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as greenwashing.
Not all projects are effective or well managed. For instance, some tree planting initiatives might have taken place anyway, even without the offset funding, deeming your contribution inconsequential. Others might plant the non-native trees in areas where they are unlikely to reach their potential in terms of absorbing carbon emissions.
So, offsetting can help, but it is no magic fix. It works best alongside real efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage low-carbon lifestyles or supply chains.
By Sankar Sivarajah, professor of circular economy, Kingston University London
Carbon offsetting explained.
Carbon tax
A carbon tax is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by placing a direct price on CO₂ and other greenhouse gases.
A carbon tax is grounded in the concept of the social cost of carbon. This is an estimate of the economic damage caused by emitting one tonne of CO₂, including climate-related health, infrastructure and ecosystem impacts.
A carbon tax is typically levied per tonne of CO₂ emitted. The tax can be applied either upstream (on fossil fuel producers) or downstream (on consumers or power generators). This makes carbon-intensive activities more expensive, it incentivises nations, businesses and people to reduce their emissions, while untaxed renewable energy becomes more competitively priced and appealing.
Carbon tax was first introduced by Finland in 1990. Since then, more than 39 jurisdictions have implemented similar schemes. According to the World Bank, carbon pricing mechanisms (that’s both carbon taxes and emissions trading systems) now cover about 24% of global emissions. The remaining 76% are not priced, mainly due to limited coverage in both sectors and geographical areas, plus persistent fossil fuel subsidies. Expanding coverage would require extending carbon pricing to sectors like agriculture and transport, phasing out fossil fuel subsidies and strengthening international governance.
What is carbon tax?
Sweden has one of the world’s highest carbon tax rates and has cut emissions by 33% since 1990 while maintaining economic growth. The policy worked because Sweden started early, applied the tax across many industries and maintained clear, consistent communication that kept the public on board.
Canada introduced a national carbon tax in 2019. In Canada, most of the revenue from carbon taxes is returned directly to households through annual rebates, making the scheme revenue-neutral for most families. However, despite its economic logic, inflation and rising fuel prices led to public discontent – especially as many citizens were unaware they were receiving rebates.
Carbon taxes face challenges including political resistance, fairness concerns and low public awareness. Their success depends on clear communication and visible reinvestment of revenues into climate or social goals. A 2025 study that surveyed 40,000 people in 20 countries found that support for carbon taxes increases significantly when revenues are used for environmental infrastructure, rather than returned through tax rebates.
By Meilan Yan, associate professor and senior lecturer in financial economics, Loughborough University
Climate resilience
Floods, wildfires, heatwaves and rising seas are pushing our cities, towns and neighbourhoods to their limits. But there’s a powerful idea that’s helping cities fight back: climate resilience.
Resilience refers to the ability of a system, such as a city, a community or even an ecosystem – to anticipate, prepare for, respond to and recover from climate-related shocks and stresses.
Sometimes people say resilience is about bouncing back. But it’s not just about surviving the next storm. It’s about adapting, evolving and thriving in a changing world.
Resilience means building smarter and better. It means designing homes that stay cool during heatwaves. Roads that don’t wash away in floods. Power grids that don’t fail when the weather turns extreme.
It’s also about people. A truly resilient city protects its most vulnerable. It ensures that everyone – regardless of income, age or background – can weather the storm.
And resilience isn’t just reactive. It’s about using science, local knowledge and innovation to reduce a risk before disaster strikes. From restoring wetlands to cool cities and absorb floods, to creating early warning systems for heatwaves, climate resilience is about weaving strength into the very fabric of our cities.
By Paul O’Hare, senior lecturer in geography and development, Manchester Metropolitan University
The meaning of climate resilience.
Climate risk disclosure
Climate risk disclosure refers to how companies report the risks they face from climate change, such as flood damage, supply chain disruptions or regulatory costs. It includes both physical risks (like storms) and transition risks (like changing laws or consumer preferences).
Mandatory disclosures, such as those proposed by the UK and EU, aim to make climate-related risks transparent to investors. Done well, these reports can shape capital flows toward more sustainable business models. Done poorly, they become greenwashing tools.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Emissions trading scheme
An emissions trading scheme is the primary market-based approach for regulating greenhouse gas emissions in many countries, including Australia, Canada, China and Mexico.
Part of a government’s job is to decide how much of the economy’s carbon emissions it wants to avoid in order to fight climate change. It must put a cap on carbon emissions that economic production is not allowed to surpass. Preferably, the polluters (that’s the manufacturers, fossil fuel companies) should be the ones paying for the cost of climate mitigation.
Regulators could simply tell all the firms how much they are allowed to emit over the next ten years or so. But giving every firm the same allowance across the board is not cost efficient, because avoiding carbon emissions is much harder for some firms (such as steel producers) than others (such as tax consultants). Since governments cannot know each firm’s specific cost profile either, it can’t customise the allowances. Also, monitoring whether polluters actually abide by their assigned limits is extremely costly.
An emissions trading scheme cleverly solves this dilemma using the cap-and-trade mechanism. Instead of assigning each polluter a fixed quota and risking inefficiencies, the government issues a large number of tradable permits – each worth, say, a tonne of CO₂-equivalent (CO₂e) – that sum up to the cap. Firms that can cut greenhouse gas emissions relatively cheaply can then trade their surplus permits to those who find it harder – at a price that makes both better off.
By Mathias Weidinger, environmental economist, University of Oxford
Emissions trading schemes, explained by climate finance expert Mathias Weidinger.
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing
ESG investing stands for environmental, social and governance investing. In simple terms, these are a set of standards that investors use to screen a company’s potential investments.
ESG means choosing to invest in companies that are not only profitable but also responsible. Investors use ESG metrics to assess risks (such as climate liability, labour practices) and align portfolios with sustainability goals by looking at how a company affects our planet and treats its people and communities. While there isn’t one single global body governing ESG, various organisations, ratings agencies and governments all contribute to setting and evolving these metrics.
For example, investing in a company committed to renewable energy and fair labour practices might be considered “ESG aligned”. Supporters believe ESG helps identify risks and create long-term value. Critics argue it can be vague or used for greenwashing, where companies appear sustainable without real action. ESG works best when paired with transparency and clear data. A barrier is that standards vary, and it’s not always clear what counts as ESG.
Why do financial companies and institutions care? Issues like climate change and nature loss pose significant risks, affecting company values and the global economy.
However, gathering reliable ESG information can be difficult. Companies often self-report, and the data isn’t always standardised or up to date. Researchers – including my team at the University of Oxford – are using geospatial data, like satellite imagery and artificial intelligence, to develop global databases for high-impact industries, across all major sectors and geographies, and independently assess environmental and social risks and impacts.
For instance, we can analyse satellite images of a facility over time to monitor its emissions effect on nature and biodiversity, or assess deforestation linked to a company’s supply chain. This allows us to map supply chains, identify high-impact assets, and detect hidden risks and opportunities in key industries, providing an objective, real-time look at their environmental footprint.
The goal is for this to improve ESG ratings and provide clearer, more consistent insights for investors. This approach could help us overcome current data limitations to build a more sustainable financial future.
By Amani Maalouf, senior researcher in spatial finance, University of Oxford
Environmental, social and governance investing explained.
Financed emissions
Financed emissions are the greenhouse gas emissions linked to a bank’s or investor’s lending and investment portfolio, rather than their own operations. For example, a bank that funds a coal mine or invests in fossil fuels is indirectly responsible for the carbon those activities produce.
Measuring financed emissions helps reveal the real climate impact of financial institutions not just their office energy use. It’s a cornerstone of climate accountability in finance and is becoming essential under net zero pledges.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Green bonds
Green bonds are loans issued to fund environmentally beneficial projects, such as energy-efficient buildings or clean transportation. Investors choose them to support climate solutions while earning returns.
Green bonds are a major tool to finance the shift to a low-carbon economy by directing finance toward climate solutions. As climate costs rise, green bonds could help close the funding gap while ensuring transparency and accountability.
Green bonds are required to ensure funds are spent as promised. For instance, imagine a city wants to upgrade its public transportation by adding electric buses to reduce pollution. Instead of raising taxes or slashing other budgets, the city can issue green bonds to raise the necessary capital. Investors buy the bonds, the city gets the funding, and the environment benefits from cleaner air and fewer emissions.
The growing participation of government issuers has improved the transparency and reliability of these investments. The green bond market has grown rapidly in recent years. According to the Bank for International Settlements, the green bond market reached US$2.9 trillion (£2.1 trillion) in 2024 – nearly six times larger than in 2018. At the same time, annual issuance (the total value of green bonds issued in a year) hit US$700 billion, highlighting the increasing role of green finance in tackling climate change.
By Dongna Zhang, assistant professor in economics and finance, Northumbria University
Just transition
Just transition is the process of moving to a low-carbon society that is environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive. In a broad sense, a just transition means focusing on creating a more fair and equal society.
Just transition has existed as a concept since the 1970s. It was originally applied to the green energy transition, protecting workers in the fossil fuel industry as we move towards more sustainable alternatives.
These days, it has so many overlapping issues of justice hidden within it, so the concept is hard to define. Even at the level of UN climate negotiations, global leaders struggle to agree on what a just transition means.
The big battle is between developed countries, who want a very restrictive definition around jobs and skills, and developing countries, who are looking for a much more holistic approach that considers wider system change and includes considerations around human rights, Indigenous people and creating an overall fairer global society.
A just transition is essentially about imagining a future where we have moved beyond fossil fuels and society works better for everyone – but that can look very different in a European city compared to a rural setting in south-east Asia.
For example, in a British city it might mean fewer cars and better public transport. In a rural setting, it might mean new ways of growing crops that are more sustainable, and building homes that are heatwave resistant.
By Alix Dietzel, climate justice and climate policy expert, University of Bristol
The meaning of just transition.
Loss and damage
A global loss and damage fund was agreed by nations at the UN climate summit (Cop27) in 2022. This means that the rich countries of the world put money into a fund that the least developed countries can then call upon when they have a climate emergency.
At the moment, the loss and damage fund is made up of relatively small pots of money. Much more will be needed to provide relief to those who need it most now and in the future.
By Mark Maslin, professor of earth system science, UCL
Mark Maslin explains loss and damage.
Mitigation v adaptation
Mitigation means cutting greenhouse gas emissions to slow climate change. Adaptation means adjusting to its effects, like building sea walls or growing heat-resistant crops. Both are essential: mitigation tackles the cause, while adaptation tackles the symptoms.
Globally, most funding goes to mitigation, but vulnerable communities often need adaptation support most. Balancing the two is a major challenge in climate policy, especially for developing countries facing immediate climate threats.
By Narmin Nahidi, assistant professor in finance at the University of Exeter
Nationally determined contributions
Nationally determined contributions (NDCs) are at the heart of the Paris agreement, the global effort to collectively combat climate change. NDCs are individual climate action plans created by each country. These targets and strategies outline how a country will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change.
Each nation sets its own goals based on its own circumstances and capabilities – there’s no standard NDC. These plans should be updated every five years and countries are encouraged to gradually increase their climate ambitions over time.
The aim is for NDCs to drive real action by guiding policies, attracting investment and inspiring innovation in clean technologies. But current NDCs fall short of the Paris agreement goals and many countries struggle to turn their plans into a reality. NDCs also vary widely in scope and detail so it’s hard to compare efforts across the board. Stronger international collaboration and greater accountability will be crucial.
By Doug Specht, reader in cultural geography and communication, University of Westminster
Fashion depends on water, soil and biodiversity – all natural capital. And forward-thinking designers are now asking: how do we create rather than deplete, how do we restore rather than extract?
Natural capital is the value assigned to the stock of forests, soils, oceans and even minerals such as lithium. It sustains every part of our economy. It’s the bees that pollinate our crops. It’s the wetlands that filter our water and it’s the trees that store carbon and cool our cities.
If we fail to value nature properly, we risk losing it. But if we succeed, we unlock a future that is not only sustainable but also truly regenerative.
My team at the University of Oxford is developing tools to integrate nature into national balance sheets, advising governments on biodiversity, and we’re helping industries from fashion to finance embed nature into their decision making.
Natural capital, explained by a climate finance expert.
By Mette Morsing, professor of business sustainability and director of the Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment, University of Oxford
Net zero
Reaching net zero means reducing the amount of additional greenhouse gas emissions that accumulate in the atmosphere to zero. This concept was popularised by the Paris agreement, a landmark deal that was agreed at the UN climate summit (Cop21) in 2015 to limit the impact of greenhouse gas emissions.
There are some emissions, from farming and aviation for example, that will be very difficult, if not impossible, to reach absolute zero. Hence, the “net”. This allows people, businesses and countries to find ways to suck greenhouse gas emissions out of the atmosphere, effectively cancelling out emissions while trying to reduce them. This can include reforestation, rewilding, direct air capture and carbon capture and storage. The goal is to reach net zero: the point at which no extra greenhouse gases accumulate in Earth’s atmosphere.
By Mark Maslin, professor of earth system science, UCL
Mark Maslin explains net zero.
For more expert explainer videos, visit The Conversation’s quick climate dictionary playlist here on YouTube.
Mark Maslin is Pro-Vice Provost of the UCL Climate Crisis Grand Challenge and Founding Director of the UCL Centre for Sustainable Aviation. He was co-director of the London NERC Doctoral Training Partnership and is a member of the Climate Crisis Advisory Group. He is an advisor to Sheep Included Ltd, Lansons, NetZeroNow and has advised the UK Parliament. He has received grant funding from the NERC, EPSRC, ESRC, DFG, Royal Society, DIFD, BEIS, DECC, FCO, Innovate UK, Carbon Trust, UK Space Agency, European Space Agency, Research England, Wellcome Trust, Leverhulme Trust, CIFF, Sprint2020, and British Council. He has received funding from the BBC, Lancet, Laithwaites, Seventh Generation, Channel 4, JLT Re, WWF, Hermes, CAFOD, HP and Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.
Amani Maalouf receives funding from IKEA Foundation and UK Research and Innovation (NE/V017756/1).
Narmin Nahidi is affiliated with several academic associations, including the Financial Management Association (FMA), British Accounting and Finance Association (BAFA), American Finance Association (AFA), and the Chartered Association of Business Schools (CMBE). These affiliations do not influence the content of this article.
Paul O’Hare receives funding from the UK’s Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). Award reference NE/V010174/1.
Alix Dietzel, Dongna Zhang, Doug Specht, Mathias Weidinger, Meilan Yan, and Sankar Sivarajah do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The regulatory service in the Gash Barka Region has conducted seminars on food safety for both humans and animals, targeting farmers and owners of social service-providing institutions in the sub-zones of Sel’a, Kerkebet, Laelai Gash, Gogni, and Mogolo.
At the seminars, Mr. Meaze Neguse, an animal resources regulatory expert, warned that unsafe food could endanger the lives of both humans and animals. He emphasized the need for safety and cleanliness throughout the entire food production chain—from farm to consumer—and highlighted the direct link between food safety and environmental protection. He urged all stakeholders in food processing and supply to collaborate with regulatory experts.
Mr. Hadish Gebremeskel, from the plant regulatory service, gave an extensive briefing on the direct and indirect adverse effects of improper pesticide use. He pointed out the critical consequences of using unapproved or unsafe agricultural medicines without consulting experts, stressing that such practices harm both the environment as well humans and animals. He encouraged farmers to use only approved pesticides and to adopt natural production systems.
Sub-zone administrators, for their part, stated that the seminars significantly contribute to the goal of “Ensuring Nutritious Food for All and Everywhere.” They called on farmers and food processing enterprises to apply the knowledge gained through the training in their daily operations.
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The aaniversary medal to the 100th anniversary of V.F. Stanis is awarded to RUDN current and ex-employees and students for: significant contribution to the university development; long-standing commitment to maintaining ties with the university; fruitful cooperation of Russian and foreign organizations, scientists and public figures with the university.
The aaniversary medal to the 100th anniversary of V.F. Stanis is awarded to RUDN current and ex-employees and students for:
significant contribution to the university development;
long-standing commitment to maintaining ties with the university;
fruitful cooperation of Russian and foreign organizations, scientists and public figures with the university.
RUDN foreign alumni
For their contribution to the promotion of RUDN abroad, for maintaining relations with the university and cooperation, 16 foreign graduates received the V.F. Stanis anniversary medal:
Galina Abbas (Lebanon);
Hamed Muhieddin Abou Zahr (Lebanon, Peru);
Al-Twal Salam Fakhri (Jordan);
Gupta Sudhir (India);
Georges Aoun (Lebanon);
Kalumbi Shangula (Namibia);
Mizanur Rahman (Bangladesh);
Mustafa Hammoud Al-Nawaise (Jordan);
Navin Saxena (India);
Najim Riad Yousef (Lebanon);
Nilakshi Suryanarayan (India);
Gagan Patwardhan (India);
Rigoberto Santos Hilario (Dominican Republic);
Ruben Dario Flores (Colombia);
Auelbek Tokzhanov (Kazakhstan);
Jose Hidalgo Salazar (Ecuador).
Faculty of Economics and Law
Mizanur Rahman, graduate ‘81 — head of the Association of Alumni of Russian and Soviet Universities in Bangladesh.
Mustafa Hammoud Al-Nawaise, graduate ‘91 — international lawyer, former Secretary General of the Constitutional Court of Jordan.
Hamed Muhieddin Abou Zahr, graduate ‘92 — President of the Arab-Peruvian Chamber of Commerce, Vice-president of the Association of RUDN Alumni in Peru, Honorary Consul of Lebanon in Peru.
Faculty of Science
Graduate ‘78 of the Faculty of Science, majoring in Chemistry, Navin Saxena is the President of the international group of pharmaceutical companies: Rusan Pharma (India), Euro-Med (Russia), Pharmaker (Great Britain), Uzpharmaker (Uzbekistan), Pharmaker (Ukraine), Pharmaker (UAE) and owns the pharmaceutical companies Rusan Pharma and Pharmaker. In 2005, Rusan Pharma became a supplier of vital drugs under the Benefit-2005 program in the Russian Federation. It still remains one of the largest suppliers of drugs to the Russian Ministry of Health, the Russian Ministry of Defense and the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, as well as to the services of the Russian Army. Navin Saxena is the author of a large number of publications in Russian and foreign scientific journals, has drugs copyright certificates and patents.
Faculty of History and Philology
Ruben Dario Flores, graduate ‘83 — Director of the Leo Tolstoy Institute of Culture in Bogota, Colombia.
Nilakshi Suryanarayan, graduate ‘80 — Head of the Department of Slavonic and Finno-Ugrian Studies at the University of Delhi, professor, teacher of Russian language and literature.
Galina Abbas, graduate ‘92 — President of RUDN University Alumni Association in Lebanon.
All of them actively promote Russian education and the Russian language in their countries. Thus, Nilakshi Suryanarayan is the author of a popular manual among Indian students of philology, “Russian Verbs with Prefixes: Meaning and Usage”. Galina Abbas was awarded the Pushkin Medal, and Ruben Dario Flores is a translator of works by Russian poets A.Pushkin, B.Pasternak and A.Tarkovsky.
Faculty of Medicine
In 1978, Najim Riad Youssef graduated from the Faculty of Medicine. Najim Riad Youssef is the CEO of RamTEK LLC and Vice-Chairman of the Lebanese-Russian Friendship Society, popularizing Russian higher education and science abroad, which made him the Ambassador of Russian Education and Science.
Kalumbi Shangula graduated from the Faculty of Medicine in 1983. He is the Minister of Health and Social Services of Namibia. He is member of the Medical Association of Namibia, the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in Great Britain, and the New York Academy of Sciences.
Faculty of Engineering
The largest number of graduates awarded the medal to the 100th anniversary of V.F. Stanis graduated from the Engineering faculty: Jose Hidalgo Salazar in 1973, Patwardhan Gagan in 1975, Al-Twal Salam Fakhri in 1983, Rigoberto Hilario Santos and Georges Aoun in 1984.
They continue to maintain contact with RUDN, creating new opportunities for the future students. Jose Hidalgo Salazar, CEO of IGGEKO LLC, became a laureate of the Order of Friendship. Al-Twal Salam Fakhri, a senior specialist in the regional office of the UN Development Program, member of the Jordan-Russia Friendship Society was awarded the Order of Friendship by the decree of the President of the Russian Federation. Rigoberto Hilario Santos, CEO of the engineering and construction company CONSUDOM SRL, member of the Presidium of the Dominican College of Architects and Geodesic Engineers, former Director of the Department of the Ministry of Public Works and Communications of the Dominican Republic, became the Ambassador of Russian Education and Science. Patwardhan Gagan, Head of Union Exports LLC, received the Order of Friendship for promoting the Russian language in Western India. Professor Georges Aoun, Head of the department of basic disciplines at the engineering faculty of the Lebanese University, organized summer schools with the Agrarian and Technological Institute, Engineering Academy and the Institute of the Russian language, as well as a double degree program with the Philological faculty of RUDN, author of a number of publication on teaching Russian as a foreign language.
Faculty of Agriculture
Auelbek Tokzhanov, a 1982 graduate of the Faculty of Agriculture, is currently the CEO of Skymax Technologies Group of Companies, AK Karal Diatomit Industry. He heads the UDN-RUDN Alumni and Friends Association in Kazakhstan and is a member of the expert group in the Innovative Economy direction of the Nur Otan party. Aulbek Tokzhanov is a co-founder of the Literary Alliance Public Foundation, which supports the work of Olzhas Suleimenov and young talents.
Gupta Sudhir is a 1983 graduate of the Faculty of Agriculture and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Amtel Corporation. To support students, he has established 80 personal scholarships of 3,000 rubles per month. Gupta Sudhir was also awarded the Order of Friendship.
V.F. Stanis anniversary medals were also awarded to 28 Russian graduates, employees and partners of RUDN University.
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Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –
A farmer from the Lipetsk region regularly delivers vegetables and fruits to special military operation (SVO) fighters, and also responds to requests for help from residents of border areas.
Vladimir lives with his family in the village of Putyatino. For over 16 years, he has been engaged in agriculture and brings vegetables and fruits to Moscow for sale. His faithful assistants on the farm are his wife and sister. Vladimir’s stall at the weekend fair in the Eastern Administrative District is a real kaleidoscope of gifts of nature: apples, potatoes, carrots, beets, onions and seasonal berries. He also sends all these products to soldiers and residents of border areas.
Organizational issues of sending food products are usually handled by his friend from his native village, it is from her that Vladimir learns what and when needs to be transferred. But there are other cases: when help is needed urgently, people turn to him for assistance directly.
“One day, my fellow countrymen called me because I was at a fair in Moscow at the time: I urgently needed to buy and deliver a stretcher to the border region. Without leaving my work at the counter, I managed to team up with acquaintances and friends, find transport, and by midnight the stretcher was there,” Vladimir said.
At such moments, he admits, you especially clearly understand how important any help is, even if it seems insignificant.
“For me, as a farmer and citizen, it is important not just to pass on something, but to really help, even if it costs me nothing. The most important support is that which allows you to maintain strength, health and fighting spirit. And it is not only food, sometimes it is enough for a soldier to just know that there are people ready to help,” Vladimir shared.
Products are brought to Moscow fairs from more than 40 Russian regions. According to Sergei Sobyanin, since the beginning of 2025, weekend fairs have already been visited two million Human.
Each supplier guarantees the quality and freshness of its products, and specialists State Veterinary Service of Moscow check it before sending it to the shelves. The fair pavilions are provided with all the necessary trade and refrigeration equipment. They are located near metro stations and other crowded places.
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto today announced that $10 million in state funding is being awarded to eight rural communities in Connecticut through the Transportation Rural Improvement Program (TRIP), a state grant program administered by the Connecticut Department of Transportation that is designed to support the state’s rural communities, which are often ineligible for many federal transportation programs.
“Connecticut’s rural communities are often shut out of many federal programs because of their size or density, and the state’s TRIP program fixes that problem,” Governor Lamont said. “Our smaller towns are one of the many things that make Connecticut such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. More importantly, these state grants will not only strengthen transportation but help to ensure our communities remain safe and connected for future generations.”
“This program helps rural communities deliver important safety improvement projects that may otherwise have been shelved due to a lack of funding,” Commissioner Eucalitto said. “No matter the population size, Connecticut’s municipalities deserve to have access to funding and programs that can improve safety and mobility.”
The eight selected projects include:
Barkhamsted – Roadway Improvements on West River Road ($1,077,856): This project includes repaving and infrastructure enhancement of West River Road, a 4.04-mile scenic road running along the West Branch of the Farmington River. The road is a vital corridor through the American Legion State Forest and passes the Austin Hawes State Campground connecting the Pleasant Valley section of town to the historic Village of Riverton.
Bethlehem – Roadway Improvements on Flanders Road ($2,000,000): This project includes paving, drainage, and safety improvements for the 1.6- mile Flanders Road. This roadway provides connectivity between Route 6 in Woodbury and Route 61 in Bethlehem, linking the two town centers.
Bolton – Replacement of Lyman Road Bridge ($1,413,238): This project includes replacing the existing twin 6’ diameter asphalt coated corrugated metal pipe culverts with an 18’ clear span by 6’ rise precast concrete box culvert. The roadway connects several neighborhoods to neighboring towns, access to Gay City State Park, shopping and entertainment for a significant area of Bolton.
Burlington – Roadway Improvements on West Chippen Road ($1,545,500): The project includes full-depth reconstruction of the roadway and drainage improvements, which will make conditions safer for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. In the vicinity of the project area are the Session Woods Wildlife Management Area and the Tunxis Trail hiking area. Additionally, the roadway provides an alternate travel route from Bristol to Burlington.
Columbia – Thompson Hill Road Bridge over Clark Brook ($1,479,899): The project includes replacing the 5’ diameter precast concrete culvert with a three sided, 18’ clear span concrete frame that will address frequent flooding and road damage caused by inadequate drainage. The new culvert will improve water flow, reduce the risk of flooding, and enhance the durability and safety of the roadway. Thompson Hill Road serves as a critical connector between two major state routes, Route 6 and Route 66, ensuring efficient transportation for residents, commuters, and businesses.
Goshen – West Hyerdale Drive Bridge Rehabilitation over the Marshapaug River ($1,500,000): The project includes lining four existing corrugated metal pipe culverts, extending the life of the bridge for an estimated 75 years. The roadway connects neighborhoods together and provides the shortest route for both emergency vehicles and the public to access to the town center.
Litchfield: Roadway Improvements on Campville Road ($968,000): The project includes full-depth reconstruction of the roadway and drainage improvements, which will make conditions safer for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. This roadway is a link between Route 8 and Route 254 and provides access from Route 8 to facilities such as Humaston Brook State Park, Northfield Brook Lake Park, and Topsmead State Forest.
Marlborough – Sidewalk Extension on Lake Road ($341,179): This project will construct more than 300 feet of sidewalk and a crosswalk on Lake Road, as well as provide upgrades to existing crossing technology on North Main Street. Construction of this segment of the sidewalk completes the interconnection between Blish Park and the Elmer Thienes/Mary Hall Elementary School passing through the town center.
The TRIP program was established in 2022 and is fully supported by state funding. Thefirst round of awardswas announced in January 2024, with $9 million in grants issued. Future TRIP grant opportunities will be announced later this year, pending funding availability.
For more information on the program, visitportal.ct.gov/dot/programs/trip.
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is ordering special elections to be held on the same date as the next general election – Tuesday, November 4, 2025 – to complete the terms of three probate judges who will each be retiring over the course of the next year.
The governor is specifically choosing to hold these special elections on the same date as the next general election because doing so will enable each impacted municipality to avoid any added costs of holding separate elections for this purpose.
Probate judges in Connecticut serve four-year terms. The current terms of each of these retiring judges expire on January 5, 2027. The winners of these special elections will begin serving from the date of the current office holder’s retirement through the end of their current term.
The special elections will be held for the following districts:
West Haven Probate Court (Probate District 39)
Municipalities: West Haven
Current judge: Honorable Mark DeGennaro
Expected retirement date: January 30, 2026
Farmington Regional Probate Court (Probate District 10)
Madison-Guilford Probate Court (Probate District 34)
Municipalities: Madison, Guilford
Current judge: Honorable Peter M. Barrett
Expected retirement date: July 2, 2026
**Download:Special election writ for the West Haven Probate Court **Download:Special election writ for the Farmington Regional Probate Court **Download:Special election writ for the Madison-Guilford Probate Court
A spate of incidents of animals found wandering on southern highways recently has the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) urging people to be vigilant about supervision and containment of livestock or pets.
Sometimes it is wild animals such as deer also creating hazards on the highways, says NZTA maintenance contract manager Justin Reid.
“There have been a number of recent incidents of livestock or other animals loose on Southland highways, and highways across the wider South Island, which have served as a reminder of the risks this can pose,” Mr Reid says.
“Now that winter is here, the risk is greater when the days are shorter and visibility is reduced. The potential for serious injury or death is high when a vehicle collides at speed with one of these animals or takes evasive action to avoid a collision.”
Owners may be held responsible when it comes to any damage caused by their animals.
Police say it is considered an emergency when animals such as livestock are found on the road in uncontrolled circumstances, and people should call 111 to report it.
“In the case of livestock, we would strongly encourage owners or managers to be mindful of their supervision, regularly checking their fences, and taking extra care when moving stock,” Mr Reid says.
“Sometimes it will be beyond peoples’ control when an animal gets loose due to the actions of others or unforeseen circumstances, but it’s all about trying to reduce the potential for harm.”
The impacts of wandering stock on motorists can be profound and long-lasting. Check out one person’s story in this short video, which also features Federated Farmers, police and FENZ on what people need to know about this issue
The Government is investing more than $56 million into water resilience projects in rural Canterbury to help protect against changing weather patterns and increase productivity through higher value land use, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson say. “Ease of access to water is a top priority for Canterbury’s rural communities,” Mr Jones says. “Canterbury has so far avoided the extreme drought experienced in previous years, thanks in part to high rainfall over December and January. However, it is still critical that the region future-proofs its water supply.” The three projects receiving loans through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) are:
Opuha Dam and Irrigation Scheme upgrade – up to $20.8m to upgrade Opuha Dam Balmoral Water Storage Facility (Amuri) – up to $20m to build a pond to store up to 10 million cu m for an existing irrigation scheme where resource consents are already held to divert, take, use, and discharge water to land in Amuri Basin. Waimakariri Irrigation Scheme – up to $15.6m to develop a large-scale storage facility to improve water reliability through the existing Waimakariri Irrigation Scheme.
Mr Patterson was at an event in Cust, along with close to a 100 farmers and other stakeholders to announce the funding. “In recent years Canterbury has faced increasingly longer and dryer periods. Last August I was nearby Rangiora to announce additional support for farmers dealing with drought,” Mr Patterson says. “Opuha Dam is a vital regional asset which needs an upgrade to extend its life and address flood management, water quality and seismic risks. Today’s funding will ensure this critical work goes ahead,” Mr Patterson says. “As well as irrigating farms, the dam has enabled growth in downstream industries such as vegetable and dairy processing while helping preserve the river environment. “The Balmoral project will ensure a more reliable water supply for farmers, providing more certainty to continue investing in diversified land use and high-value food production. “The need for a more reliable water supply was also a key driver for the Waimakariri Irrigation Scheme. The project will enable water diverted from Waimakariri River when it is plentiful to be stored in ponds and used all year,” Mr Patterson says. “Each of these projects has its own geographical boundary within which it operates but combined they provide a significant boost to the region’s broader water resilience and supply for the primary production sector,” Mr Jones says. Editors’ note:
The Regional Infrastructure Fund is a capital fund with the primary purpose of accelerating infrastructure projects, with a focus on water storage, energy, and resilience that will make a difference in the regions. Funding is approved in principle and announced, after which contracts are negotiated. Some funding may depend on completion of business cases. Payments are made once agreed milestones are met. These are set as part of contract negotiations and differ from project to project.
Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
07.02.25
Bill Approved by Senate Updates Reference Prices, Strengthens Crop Insurance
FARGO, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven, chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today held a roundtable with North Dakota farm leaders to outline provisions he secured in the One Big Beautiful Bill, including:
Updated reference prices, with built-in future increases.
Elements of Hoeven’s FARMER Act to strengthen crop insurance and make higher levels of coverage more affordable for producers.
Sugar Program Extension.
Improvements to Livestock Disaster Programs.
“The One Big Beautiful Bill provides significant tax relief for working Americans, including our farmers and ranchers, but we also secured the heart and soul of the farm bill in this legislation,” said Hoeven. “That includes priorities like updated reference prices for this crop year, stronger and more affordable crop insurance, as well as updates to the sugar program and improvements to livestock disaster programs. These are the core pieces of the farm bill and vital to farm country. The Senate has now passed what is essentially a seven year farm bill.”
Specifically, the legislation:
Increases reference prices for Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) by 10% to 20% (specific increase varies by commodity).
Built-in future reference price increases with an inflation adjuster and an improved price escalator to prevent reference prices from becoming outdated when market and input costs change.
New safety net begins right away – producers can receive the higher of the ARC or PLC payment for this crop year, 2025, with the new updated reference prices. North Dakota farmers will see tens of millions of dollars in relief in 2025 alone thanks to these updates.
Key provisions of Hoeven’s FARMER Act to strengthen and expand access to affordable crop insurance:
Increases premium support for individual-based coverage across nearly all levels – starting at 55% — by an additional 3-5%.
Enhances the Supplemental Coverage Option by raising the coverage level from 86% to 90%, and boosts premium support from 65% to 80%.
Extension of the sugar program through 2031, while increasing the sugar loan rate to better align with current market conditions.
Improvements to livestock disaster programs
Sets Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) payments at 100% of market value for losses from federally protected predators and 75% for weather and disease losses.
Improves the Livestock Forage Program (LFP) to provide one monthly payment to eligible producers with grazing land in counties rated D2 (severe drought) for at least four consecutive weeks and two payments if D2 persists during any seven of eight consecutive weeks within the normal grazing period.
Tax Relief for Agriculture Producers
The legislation permanently extends current individual tax rates and bracket changes of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, preserving $4 trillion in tax breaks, and increasing take-home pay by up to $10,900 in the first four years for the typical family as a result of economic growth and tax relief. The legislation also provides tax relief for farmers and ranchers and other small businesses, including:
Permanent relief from the death tax by setting the exemption to $15 million or $30 million for those married filing jointly, adjusted for inflation.
Permanently extending the Section 199A pass-through deduction for small businesses, farmers and ranchers.
Permanently extending the Section 199A(g) deduction used by agricultural cooperatives.
Increasing the Section 179 expensing amount to $2.5 million and increasing the phaseout for qualified property at $4 million.
Making permanent the 30 percent interest expense allowance.
Making permanent 100 percent bonus depreciation.
Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
07.02.25
One Big Beautiful Bill Preserves & Expands Tax Breaks for Low- and Middle-Income Households, Empowers Small Businesses, Farmers & Ranchers to Invest in Their Operations
BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today held a press conference with local business leaders and community members to discuss the benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) to families and small businesses in North Dakota. Hoeven stressed the legislation maintains and expands tax benefits for low- and middle-income households, reduces the tax burden on workers and boosts the U.S. economy. Combined, the bill’s provisions:
Preserve $4 trillion in tax relief.
Will increase take-home pay by up to $10,900 in the first four years for the typical family, resulting from economic growth and tax relief.
For Families and Individuals:
Permanently extends current individual tax rates and bracket changes of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
This includes maintaining the increased standard deduction, which benefits, and helps simplify income taxes for, the vast majority of taxpayers.
Eliminates taxes on tips and overtime for millions of American workers.
Supports families by increasing and making permanent the enhanced child tax credit at $2,200, with $1,700 of that amount being refundable, adjusted for inflation.
Provides permanent relief from the death tax by setting the exemption to $15 million or $30 million for those married filing jointly, adjusted for inflation.
Establishes savings accounts for newborns to help build financial security.
Creates a new $6,000 tax deduction for millions of low- and middle-income seniors.
Combined with other deductions, this will result in the average beneficiary paying zero taxes on Social Security.
For Small Businesses:
Permanently extending the Section 199A pass-through deduction for small businesses, farmers and ranchers, including the Section 199A(g) deduction used by agricultural cooperatives.
Increasing the Section 179 expensing to $2.5 million and increasing the phaseout for qualified property at $4 million.
Establishing a 100 percent accelerated depreciation for new industrial and manufacturing facilities that begin construction between 2025-2028.
Making permanent the 30 percent interest expense allowance.
Permanently extending the 100 percent research and development deduction.
Making permanent 100 percent bonus depreciation.
“At its core, the tax provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill are about allowing American workers and small businesses to keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Hoeven. “We worked to ensure this legislation provides trillions in tax relief for everyday Americans on a permanent basis. This includes preserving a higher standard deduction, expanding benefits for families with children and eliminating taxes on tips, overtime and Social Security for millions of workers and seniors, respectively. This will not only increase the quality of life for households throughout our country, but it will strengthen our economy by enabling businesses to invest in their operations, recoup their costs and create good-paying jobs across sectors.”
Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
Published: July 2, 2025
Ernst-led provision eliminates FAFSA restrictions that limit opportunities for farm kids to attend college.
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst’s (R-Iowa) bipartisan Family Farm and Small Business Exemption Act that keeps higher education accessible for Iowa farm families has passed the Senate as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill.
The bill reverses changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process that could reduce or even eliminate access to need-based aid for students of farm families and small business owners. It restores the original guidelines that exempt all farmland, machinery, other operational materials, and small businesses with fewer than 100 employees from being declared on the FAFSA form.
“After the Biden administration botched the FAFSA rollout at the expense of farm families, I am proud to right that wrong and ensure unfair policies don’t hold Iowans back from investing in their child’s education,” Ernst said. “Reopening pathways to financial aid for rural students in need is yet another way the One Big Beautiful Bill takes a stand for Iowans and ensures the next generation of students will have the opportunity to pursue higher education.”
Background:
In the wake of the Biden administration’s botched FAFSA rollout, Ernst consistently stood up for Iowa families to ensure they aren’t left behind when it comes to college aid opportunities. She helped pass the FAFSA Deadline Act into law to give families the certainty they deserve, conducted critical oversight, demanded answers on behalf of agricultural communities, and worked to get input directly from impacted Iowans.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
MINSK, July 2 /Xinhua/ – Belarus and Libya signed a package of documents on cooperation on Wednesday following the visit of the Libyan government delegation to Minsk, BelTA reported.
Among the signed documents is an agreement of intent between the ministries of industry of the two countries. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food of Belarus and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock of the Government of National Stability of Libya signed a memorandum of understanding on the development of cooperation in the field of agriculture. A protocol of intent was also signed between the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of Belarus and the National Development Agency of Libya.
In addition, the parties signed a memorandum of intent on cooperation between the Ministry of Education of Belarus and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Government of National Stability of Libya, a protocol of intent on the creation of an emergency prevention and response system in Benghazi, and an action plan for the development of cooperation in the field of healthcare.
At the end of the signing ceremony of the package of documents, Prime Minister of Belarus Alexander Turchin particularly noted that the parties had summed up an important result of the next stage of bilateral work. “I am simply confident that this event will give a serious impetus to further interaction between Belarus and Libya. I am grateful to all my colleagues who worked intensively to ensure that our cooperation continues at such a high level,” said the Prime Minister of Belarus. –0–
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) sent a letter to Governor Tony Evers urging him to promptly sign the Wisconsin FY 2025-27 state budget into law. The state budget includes an increase to the state provider tax rate, which must be in effect prior to the signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.
For nearly a decade, Wisconsin’s provider tax rate has not been updated from 1.7%. The One, Big, Beautiful Bill will allow non-Medicaid expansion states, like Wisconsin, with provider tax rates of up to 6% to remain untouched. In order for Wisconsin to fully capitalize on the Medicaid benefits in the bill, it is imperative the governor sign the state budget into law as soon as possible.
“I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025,” Rep. Van Orden stated in the letter.
The congressman continued,“Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.”
“I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.”
To read the full letter, click here or scroll below.
The Honorable Tony Evers
Governor of Wisconsin
115 East Capitol
Madison, WI 53702
July 2, 2025
Dear Governor Evers,
I wanted to send you a follow up note from our conversation yesterday.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025.
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I implore you to put politics aside, and our neighbors first.
The One Big Beautiful Bill will have a profoundly beneficial impact on Wisconsinites from all socioeconomic backgrounds by ensuring that Badger Care, in its current form and scope, remains solvent into the future and bolstering our rural healthcare systems.
Wisconsin will immediately receive a $500,000,000 plus up for rural healthcare infrastructure, and an additional billion dollars annually for healthcare in our great state.
Additionally, this bill protects SNAP for those most in need, prevents a 25% tax hike on Wisconsin families, makes the Small Business Deduction permanent and increases it to 23%, and removes the Death Tax so our farmers can pass their land onto the next generation.
Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.
I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) sent a letter to Governor Tony Evers urging him to promptly sign the Wisconsin FY 2025-27 state budget into law. The state budget includes an increase to the state provider tax rate, which must be in effect prior to the signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.
For nearly a decade, Wisconsin’s provider tax rate has not been updated from 1.7%. The One, Big, Beautiful Bill will allow non-Medicaid expansion states, like Wisconsin, with provider tax rates of up to 6% to remain untouched. In order for Wisconsin to fully capitalize on the Medicaid benefits in the bill, it is imperative the governor sign the state budget into law as soon as possible.
“I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025,” Rep. Van Orden stated in the letter.
The congressman continued,“Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.”
“I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.”
To read the full letter, click here or scroll below.
The Honorable Tony Evers
Governor of Wisconsin
115 East Capitol
Madison, WI 53702
July 2, 2025
Dear Governor Evers,
I wanted to send you a follow up note from our conversation yesterday.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025.
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I implore you to put politics aside, and our neighbors first.
The One Big Beautiful Bill will have a profoundly beneficial impact on Wisconsinites from all socioeconomic backgrounds by ensuring that Badger Care, in its current form and scope, remains solvent into the future and bolstering our rural healthcare systems.
Wisconsin will immediately receive a $500,000,000 plus up for rural healthcare infrastructure, and an additional billion dollars annually for healthcare in our great state.
Additionally, this bill protects SNAP for those most in need, prevents a 25% tax hike on Wisconsin families, makes the Small Business Deduction permanent and increases it to 23%, and removes the Death Tax so our farmers can pass their land onto the next generation.
Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.
I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) sent a letter to Governor Tony Evers urging him to promptly sign the Wisconsin FY 2025-27 state budget into law. The state budget includes an increase to the state provider tax rate, which must be in effect prior to the signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.
For nearly a decade, Wisconsin’s provider tax rate has not been updated from 1.7%. The One, Big, Beautiful Bill will allow non-Medicaid expansion states, like Wisconsin, with provider tax rates of up to 6% to remain untouched. In order for Wisconsin to fully capitalize on the Medicaid benefits in the bill, it is imperative the governor sign the state budget into law as soon as possible.
“I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025,” Rep. Van Orden stated in the letter.
The congressman continued,“Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.”
“I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.”
To read the full letter, click here or scroll below.
The Honorable Tony Evers
Governor of Wisconsin
115 East Capitol
Madison, WI 53702
July 2, 2025
Dear Governor Evers,
I wanted to send you a follow up note from our conversation yesterday.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of signing the proposed state budget into law without delay. As you are aware, timely enactment is especially critical this year due to the proposed increase in the state provider tax, which must be effectuated before the anticipated signing of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill on or around July 4, 2025.
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I implore you to put politics aside, and our neighbors first.
The One Big Beautiful Bill will have a profoundly beneficial impact on Wisconsinites from all socioeconomic backgrounds by ensuring that Badger Care, in its current form and scope, remains solvent into the future and bolstering our rural healthcare systems.
Wisconsin will immediately receive a $500,000,000 plus up for rural healthcare infrastructure, and an additional billion dollars annually for healthcare in our great state.
Additionally, this bill protects SNAP for those most in need, prevents a 25% tax hike on Wisconsin families, makes the Small Business Deduction permanent and increases it to 23%, and removes the Death Tax so our farmers can pass their land onto the next generation.
Delaying the state budget enactment beyond July 3rd risks losing vital opportunities for the state’s healthcare system and the Wisconsinites who rely on it. Healthcare and rural healthcare, in particular, is vital to us in Wisconsin. We cannot leave anything on the table. Please act swiftly to sign the budget and secure the provider tax increase in time to meet this critical federal deadline.
I came to Washington to fight for those in rural Wisconsin. By voting for this bill, I will be doing just that, and I am looking forward to working with our state senators, assembly members, and you to make sure our fellow Wisconsinites cannot just survive but thrive.
Today, the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, visited Denendeh Manor, a four-storey Indigenous-owned apartment building in Yellowknife, to announce over $13.3 million in support of five projects in Alberta and the Northwest Territories.
These projects are being funded under the Low Carbon Economy Fund (LCEF), which invests in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, generate clean growth, build resilient communities, and create jobs for Canadians through four distinct funding streams. They are essential to building a clean economy and keeping Canadian innovation climate competitive.
Three of the projects being announced are receiving funding from the LCEF Challenge stream, which supports a variety of organizations in adopting proven, low-carbon technologies to reduce their carbon footprint and stay climate competitive. The other two are receiving funding from the LCEF Indigenous Leadership stream, which supports Indigenous-owned and Indigenous-led renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating projects across Canada.
The Sherritt International Corporation is receiving approximately $1.6 million from the Challenge stream to increase the efficiency of the natural gas-fired boilers it uses to generate steam for its fertilizer plant in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta.
Cavendish Farms Corporation is receiving nearly $1.4 million from the Challenge stream to install a heat recovery system and reduce reliance on natural gas at its Lethbridge, Alberta facility.
The Taurus Canada Renewable Natural Gas Corporation is receiving approximately $3.4 million from the Challenge stream to construct the world’s first small-scale biogenic carbon capture and storage project, using manure anaerobic digestion on the Kasko Cattle Co. Ltd. feedlot site.
Denendeh Manor GP Ltd. is receiving approximately $2.3 million from the Indigenous Leadership stream to improve energy efficiency and low carbon heating at Denendeh Manor in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.
The Inuvialuit Regional Corporation is receiving approximately $4.6 million from the Indigenous Leadership stream to supply ground-mounted solar installation kits to Inuvialuit-owned cabins in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region of the Northwest Territories.
These investments reaffirm the Government of Canada’s strong commitment to building a clean, sustainable economy for all; achieving its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets; and protecting our environment.
Today, the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, visited Denendeh Manor, a four-storey Indigenous-owned apartment building in Yellowknife, to announce over $13.3 million in support of five projects in Alberta and the Northwest Territories.
These projects are being funded under the Low Carbon Economy Fund (LCEF), which invests in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, generate clean growth, build resilient communities, and create jobs for Canadians through four distinct funding streams. They are essential to building a clean economy and keeping Canadian innovation climate competitive.
Three of the projects being announced are receiving funding from the LCEF Challenge stream, which supports a variety of organizations in adopting proven, low-carbon technologies to reduce their carbon footprint and stay climate competitive. The other two are receiving funding from the LCEF Indigenous Leadership stream, which supports Indigenous-owned and Indigenous-led renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating projects across Canada.
The Sherritt International Corporation is receiving approximately $1.6 million from the Challenge stream to increase the efficiency of the natural gas-fired boilers it uses to generate steam for its fertilizer plant in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta.
Cavendish Farms Corporation is receiving nearly $1.4 million from the Challenge stream to install a heat recovery system and reduce reliance on natural gas at its Lethbridge, Alberta facility.
The Taurus Canada Renewable Natural Gas Corporation is receiving approximately $3.4 million from the Challenge stream to construct the world’s first small-scale biogenic carbon capture and storage project, using manure anaerobic digestion on the Kasko Cattle Co. Ltd. feedlot site.
Denendeh Manor GP Ltd. is receiving approximately $2.3 million from the Indigenous Leadership stream to improve energy efficiency and low carbon heating at Denendeh Manor in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.
The Inuvialuit Regional Corporation is receiving approximately $4.6 million from the Indigenous Leadership stream to supply ground-mounted solar installation kits to Inuvialuit-owned cabins in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region of the Northwest Territories.
These investments reaffirm the Government of Canada’s strong commitment to building a clean, sustainable economy for all; achieving its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets; and protecting our environment.
The Government of Canada announced five projects receiving funding under the Low Carbon Economy Fund.
The Low Carbon Economy Fund is an important part of Canada’s clean growth and climate action plans. It invests in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, generate clean growth, build resilient communities, and create jobs for Canadians.
The Low Carbon Economy Fund consists of four funding streams: the Leadership Fund, the Challenge Fund, the Indigenous Leadership Fund, and the Implementation Readiness Fund. Three of the projects announced are being funded by the Challenge Fund, which aims to help organizations adopt proven, low-carbon technologies to cut greenhouse gas emissions. The other two projects are being funded under the Indigenous Leadership Fund, which supports Indigenous-owned and Indigenous-led renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating projects across Canada.
List of projects
Recipient: Sherritt International Corporation Project title: Boiler Economizer Project description: Sherritt operates a production facility in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, which refines nickel and cobalt and produces ammonia and ammonium sulphate fertilizer. Sherritt currently uses two natural gas-fired steam boilers to provide steam for process use and heating throughout the facility. This project adds economizers to both boilers to preheat the boiler feedwater using waste heat from the boiler stack exhaust. The boiler economizers will increase boiler efficiency, reduce natural gas use, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from combustion of natural gas. Province/Territory: Alberta Funding amount: $1,600,000 Funding stream: Challenge 2023
Recipient: Cavendish Farms Corporation Project title: Line 1 Fryer Heat Recovery – Lethbridge Project description: This project will recover heat energy from fryer exhaust and deposit it in various facility processes requiring heat. By using recovered heat energy, this project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from combustion of natural gas. Province/Territory: Alberta Funding amount: $1,375,000 Funding stream: Challenge 2023
Recipient: Taurus Canada Renewable Natural Gas Corp. Project title: Small-Scale Carbon Capture and Storage from Feedlot Manure Anaerobic Digestion Project description: This project involves the design and construction of a small-scale, remote carbon capture system connected to a 100% feedlot manure-based anerobic digestion facility on a feedlot site owned by the Kasko Cattle Co. This project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to investment and job creation in rural Alberta. Province/Territory: Alberta Funding amount: $3,405,000 Funding stream: Challenge 2023
Recipient: Denendeh Manor GP Ltd. Project title: Denendeh Manor Energy Efficiency Retrofit Project Project description: The project aims to improve energy efficiency and low carbon heating at Denendeh Manor, a four-storey, Indigenous-owned apartment building in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. The upgrades will include a wood pellet biomass heating system, energy-efficient windows and doors, fire-smart siding, enhanced insulation, air sealing, better ventilation, LED lighting, and a rooftop solar hot water preheat array with a sewage heat recovery system. The goal is to increase the energy efficiency of the building and eliminate oil-fired heating, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions, lowering utility costs, and creating jobs. Province/Territory: Northwest Territories Funding amount: $2,330,000 Funding stream: Indigenous Leadership Fund
Recipient: Inuvialuit Regional Corporation Project title: ISR Renewable Energy Cabin Retrofit Project description: The ISR Renewable Energy Cabin Retrofit project is to be delivered by the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation. The project aims to supply ground-mounted solar installation kits to Inuvialuit-owned cabins in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR), located in the Northwest Territories. To improve the accessibility, usability, and longevity of the solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, the project would support solar panel installation and maintenance workshops in six Inuvialuit Settlement Region communities. The project would also include a call for project proposals for Inuvialuit Settlement Region communities with the intention of providing funding to one or more selected projects that would support greenhouse gas emission reductions, generate clean growth, and build capacity in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region communities. The primary object of the project is to increase accessibility to clean energy sources for Inuvialuit in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region. Province: Northwest Territories Funding amount/Territory: $4,650,000 Funding stream: Indigenous Leadership Fund
The Government of Canada announced five projects receiving funding under the Low Carbon Economy Fund.
The Low Carbon Economy Fund is an important part of Canada’s clean growth and climate action plans. It invests in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, generate clean growth, build resilient communities, and create jobs for Canadians.
The Low Carbon Economy Fund consists of four funding streams: the Leadership Fund, the Challenge Fund, the Indigenous Leadership Fund, and the Implementation Readiness Fund. Three of the projects announced are being funded by the Challenge Fund, which aims to help organizations adopt proven, low-carbon technologies to cut greenhouse gas emissions. The other two projects are being funded under the Indigenous Leadership Fund, which supports Indigenous-owned and Indigenous-led renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating projects across Canada.
List of projects
Recipient: Sherritt International Corporation Project title: Boiler Economizer Project description: Sherritt operates a production facility in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, which refines nickel and cobalt and produces ammonia and ammonium sulphate fertilizer. Sherritt currently uses two natural gas-fired steam boilers to provide steam for process use and heating throughout the facility. This project adds economizers to both boilers to preheat the boiler feedwater using waste heat from the boiler stack exhaust. The boiler economizers will increase boiler efficiency, reduce natural gas use, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from combustion of natural gas. Province/Territory: Alberta Funding amount: $1,600,000 Funding stream: Challenge 2023
Recipient: Cavendish Farms Corporation Project title: Line 1 Fryer Heat Recovery – Lethbridge Project description: This project will recover heat energy from fryer exhaust and deposit it in various facility processes requiring heat. By using recovered heat energy, this project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from combustion of natural gas. Province/Territory: Alberta Funding amount: $1,375,000 Funding stream: Challenge 2023
Recipient: Taurus Canada Renewable Natural Gas Corp. Project title: Small-Scale Carbon Capture and Storage from Feedlot Manure Anaerobic Digestion Project description: This project involves the design and construction of a small-scale, remote carbon capture system connected to a 100% feedlot manure-based anerobic digestion facility on a feedlot site owned by the Kasko Cattle Co. This project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to investment and job creation in rural Alberta. Province/Territory: Alberta Funding amount: $3,405,000 Funding stream: Challenge 2023
Recipient: Denendeh Manor GP Ltd. Project title: Denendeh Manor Energy Efficiency Retrofit Project Project description: The project aims to improve energy efficiency and low carbon heating at Denendeh Manor, a four-storey, Indigenous-owned apartment building in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. The upgrades will include a wood pellet biomass heating system, energy-efficient windows and doors, fire-smart siding, enhanced insulation, air sealing, better ventilation, LED lighting, and a rooftop solar hot water preheat array with a sewage heat recovery system. The goal is to increase the energy efficiency of the building and eliminate oil-fired heating, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions, lowering utility costs, and creating jobs. Province/Territory: Northwest Territories Funding amount: $2,330,000 Funding stream: Indigenous Leadership Fund
Recipient: Inuvialuit Regional Corporation Project title: ISR Renewable Energy Cabin Retrofit Project description: The ISR Renewable Energy Cabin Retrofit project is to be delivered by the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation. The project aims to supply ground-mounted solar installation kits to Inuvialuit-owned cabins in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR), located in the Northwest Territories. To improve the accessibility, usability, and longevity of the solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, the project would support solar panel installation and maintenance workshops in six Inuvialuit Settlement Region communities. The project would also include a call for project proposals for Inuvialuit Settlement Region communities with the intention of providing funding to one or more selected projects that would support greenhouse gas emission reductions, generate clean growth, and build capacity in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region communities. The primary object of the project is to increase accessibility to clean energy sources for Inuvialuit in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region. Province: Northwest Territories Funding amount/Territory: $4,650,000 Funding stream: Indigenous Leadership Fund
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding Louisiana a total of $3,657,455.00 in funding from his Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act (IIJA) for critical airport improvements in Tallulah, Slidell, Lake Charles, Farmerville, Sulphur, and Jena.
“Upgrading airport infrastructure improves safety, efficiency, and the experience for travelers,”said Dr. Cassidy. “These investments will help local airports grow, better serve their regions, and support economic development across Louisiana.”
Grant Awarded
Recipient
Project Description
$1,068,750.00
Vicksburg Tallulah Regional Airport (Tallulah)
This grant will provide federal funding to reconstruct culverts and a water lift station to improve drainage and stormwater management.
$332,500.00
City of Slidell
This grant will provide federal funding to reseal 5,002 feet of Runway 18/36 pavement to extend its useful life.
$1,300,000.00
Airport Authority District No. 1 (Lake Charles)
This grant will provide federal funding to construct a terminal parking lot and reconstruct 2,600 feet of access roads serving the terminal and general aviation facilities.
$300,000.00
Union Parish Police Jury (Farmerville)
This grant will provide federal funding to construct an 8,400 square foot sponsor-owned T-hangar complex to support airport self-sufficiency.
$89,205.00
Chennault International Airport Authority (Lake Charles)
This grant will provide federal funding to design the rehabilitation of 1,425 feet of paved taxiways to maintain pavement integrity.
$534,850.00
West Calcasieu Airport Managing Board (Sulphur)
This grant will provide federal funding to acquire and install a new automated weather observing system to provide accurate, site-specific weather information.
$32,150.00
LaSalle Economic Development District (Jena)
This grant will provide federal funding to reconstruct the airport’s drainage system to correct failing infrastructure.
ALBUQUERQUE – Two brothers from Fruitland, New Mexico were sentenced for their roles in a violent assault and subsequent confrontation with law enforcement on the Navajo Nation.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on March 23, 2024, Justin Tso, 38, and his brother Walliford Tso, 37, enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, went to the residence of John Doe, where Doe lived with his girlfriend and her son. As the brothers were departing the home, Justin took a machete without permission and walked away. John Doe armed himself with an axe and demanded the return of the machete. In response, Justin and Walliford charged at John Doe, leading to a violent altercation.
The brothers pursued John Doe back into the residence, where they assaulted him in front of his family, punching him and throwing objects, including a tire rim, pipe, and large rock. John Doe was able to escape and call police. During the incident, the brothers caused significant property damage, including smashing car windows and damaging vehicles.
Navajo Nation Police responded to the scene. During the attempt to apprehend the suspects, Walliford pointed a rifle at officers before surrendering. Walliford and Justin were both found to be intoxicated at the time of the incident.
Walliford and Justin each pled guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and were sentenced to 24 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Meg Tomlinson is prosecuting the case.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New York of the Aug. 1 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses due to severe storms and flooding occurring on Aug. 8-10, 2024.
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, St. Lawrence and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York.
Under this declaration SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return economic injury applications is Aug. 1, 2025.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New York of the Aug. 1 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses due to severe storms and flooding occurring on Aug. 8-10, 2024.
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, St. Lawrence and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York.
Under this declaration SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return economic injury applications is Aug. 1, 2025.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus
The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI – July 02, 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar joined Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, Budget Committee Ranking Member Brendan Boyle, Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig, Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard Neal, Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone and House Democrats for a press conference on Trump’s One Big Ugly Bill.
CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: Donald Trump promised the American people that he would cut costs on day one. Republicans in Congress swore up and down that their policies would fight inflation and make life easier for everyday Americans. More lies. But we’ve all seen under this President, and this Republican majority, the prices continue to rise and the American Dream slipping further from reach.
Today marks the culmination of Donald Trump’s betrayal of working people across this country. Because of this bill, your health care is going to go up. Your electric bill is going to be more expensive. The clothes and groceries that you buy are already rising due to his reckless tariffs. The only people who make out in this bill are people who can already afford to pay a little bit more at the checkout line. But that’s not the reality for most people in this country. This bill isn’t for the American people—it’s a reward to the mega-rich campaign donors that bankroll Republican campaigns.
Why would Gabe Evans in Colorado vote for this bill? 29,000 people will lose access to health care in his district. 30,000 households will lose access to food nutrition programs, and almost 1,000 energy jobs will be lost. No one asked 17 million people to lose their health insurance. No one asked for hospitals to close or nursing homes to be shuttered because billionaires want more tax breaks. Where I’m from, that’s not big or beautiful. That’s small and ugly. No one asked for food assistance to be taken away from children to give handouts to the same corporations gouging the American people.
House Democrats believe that this bill is fundamentally un-American. We are going to fight to make sure billionaires and wealthy corporations pay their fair share, so that we can build an economy that works for everyone. We are going to fight to make America less expensive. And we’re going to fight to give working class people more breathing room and opportunities to get ahead.
I want to thank my House colleagues for standing with us in this time, against this bill. I want to thank the community members who have joined us as well. And members of the faith-based community as well.
We’re not here in a partisan exercise. We’re here because the American people don’t deserve this suffering. Now we did take a little bit of liberty when we said, “Hell no.” We didn’t ask them, members of the clergy, but we stand in unison against this dangerous bill. And today, however long it takes, we will continue to vote against this bill. We will do it together, and we will do it with the American people in mind. Thank you so much.
Video of the full press conference can be viewed here.
Question for written answer E-002554/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Galato Alexandraki (ECR)
The European Commission has fined Greece EUR 415 million for systematic administrative failures in the management of agricultural aid in the period 2009-2023. As the Ministry of Rural Development itself acknowledges, this is not a matter of producer fraud, but rather the result of inadequate checks, a lack of cross-checks with the IAPR, shortcomings in the land register, pasture maps, technical errors by private individuals and numerous years of institutional inaction.
Although the blame is being attributed to administrative or political persons, not a single charge has been initiated. Meanwhile, the fine is already set to be covered by the state budget. This means that ordinary taxpayers and honest farmers are bearing the consequences of scandals in which they had no part.
In view of this, can the Commission say:
1.How does it assess the failure of the Greek authorities to identify and punish those actually responsible?
2.Does it intend to request specific names of natural or legal persons responsible for the infringements?
3.Does it consider it fair to impose the fine on farmers and citizens who bear no responsibility for the management collapse of the competent bodies?
