Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Business confidence in South Africa: how a 70-year-old survey has given early signals of the economy’s pulse

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Johann Kirsten, Director of the Bureau for Economic Research, Stellenbosch University

    Business tendency surveys provide very useful indicators of trends within an economy. The information is available well before the official statistics, such as GDP growth, and provides insights into business dynamics that cannot be found elsewhere.

    For 70 years the Bureau for Economic Research at South Africa’s Stellenbosch University has been conducting business tendency surveys. Indeed, South Africa remains one of the few countries where these surveys are conducted by a non-state agency.

    The surveys cover a range of questions, tracking everything from activity to demand, selling prices to inventories, investment and also the constraints holding back investment. But the most important question is very simple: are you satisfied with prevailing business conditions? Respondents can only respond with a yes or a no. There is no scale, no maybe, no but. It is a pure gut feeling. This is the only true measure of business sentiment in South Africa.

    While it can be argued that at times of fast production growth sentiment is more upbeat (and vice versa during a recession), sentiment typically turns before you see production growth. Respondents to Bureau for Economic Research surveys know their business like the palm of their hand. They sense when something starts changing and know when they can turn cautiously optimistic about conditions even though activity is not there (yet). As illustrated in the figure below, confidence often turns before the business cycle phase changes from an upward to a downward phase (and the other way around).

    Changes in sentiment tell us a lot about investment intentions, as well as the potential for faster economic growth and job creation in the economy. If business people in South Africa are downbeat about business conditions, it is near impossible to see growth accelerate. Why build a new factory or employ workers if you are not, at the very least, satisfied with the environment you have to operate in today?

    While the survey process has changed over the past seven decades, the value of the insights has not. South Africa’s new government of national unity has promised to tackle the country’s structural constraints, with reforms aimed at improving electricity, infrastructure, water and logistics. By providing a reliable measure of sentiment, the survey will go a long way in assessing whether they are successful.

    Business confidence ahead of economic shifts

    While we survey a range of sectors, only the responses of a specific set of sectors are compiled into the so-called composite Business Confidence Index. This index is sponsored by Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) and is known as the RMB/BER BCI.

    The index looks at the responses of manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, new vehicle dealers and main building contractors. These sectors represent the productive sectors of the economy and tend to lead the rest of the economy.

    So, if something changes here, one can be fairly sure that it will soon start changing in the rest of the economy. Manufacturers, for example, have a feel for both domestic and export demand conditions, which later trickle through the rest of the economy. New vehicle dealers will be the first to know when local consumers start holding their purse strings.

    In most sectors the survey also asks respondents about constraints to business conditions. We ask the same set of questions each quarter and have been doing so for decades. This gives us a very powerful, long-term time series of data. For example, over the last ten years, manufacturers have almost consistently seen the general political climate as the most serious constraint on business conditions.

    The Absa Manufacturing Survey shows that it’s a more serious constraint than insufficient demand or the short-term interest rate, despite the latter being at the highest level in 15 years. Interestingly, the political climate constraint fell sharply in the third quarter of 2024, following the formation of the government of national unity. The disruptions at local ports were also picked up by our surveys, with load-shedding top of mind for many respondents in 2023 (and before).

    The graph below shows a long-term series of business confidence. A reading of 100 would signal extreme optimism with every respondent satisfied with business conditions – this has never happened before. A reading of zero means not a single respondent is satisfied with business conditions. This, too, has not happened before, but we did see confidence fall to just 5 index points in the second quarter of 2020, the worst of the COVID-19 lockdowns, with many businesses forced to close temporarily. The BER surveys provided invaluable information about business dynamics in the formal economy during the pandemic and the recovery.

    Figure 1: RMB/BER Business Confidence Index (BCI)

    Source: BER. Note, business cycle downswing phases as determined by the South African Reserve Bank are shaded.

    The RMB/BER BCI edged up by three index points to 38 in the third quarter of 2024. This was the first survey after the formation of the new government, and some may have hoped for a bigger boost to sentiment. Still, underlying results suggest respondents are turning cautiously more optimistic about the future. For the first time since early 2022, most respondents across the different sectors expect business conditions to improve in 12 months’ time, instead of deteriorating (further).

    Current demand conditions, however, remained tough, which held back a bigger recovery in sentiment.

    A firm commitment by the new government of national unity to continue with structural reform aimed at alleviating the constraints on the South African economy and an effort to bring down the cost of doing business (by lowering the administrative burden, for example) would go a long way in supporting a more pronounced recovery in business confidence.

    Higher confidence will translate into faster economic growth over time.

    How the index is compiled

    Taking a step back, in 1954, and for many decades after that, everything at the BER was done by hand. The surveys were sent by post, and indices were painstakingly calculated as the responses trickled in. Some graphs were even drawn up by hand. Over time, more electronics became involved. South African postal services deteriorated to such an extent that relying on them was no longer feasible.

    A copy of the 1955 business confidence survey results. Source: Bureau for Economic Research

    The little pigeonholes for the postal letters at the BER offices were removed earlier this year and all survey responses are now received via email. Responses are weighted for firm and sector size, and we try to keep the survey as representative of the sectors as possible.

    It is becoming increasingly difficult to expand our panel in a world where inboxes are flooded with fly-by-night surveys and spam. Our close relationship with international bodies such as the Centre for International Research on Economic Tendency Surveys and our academic footing as a university research institute ensures that we continue to follow global best practices.

    – Business confidence in South Africa: how a 70-year-old survey has given early signals of the economy’s pulse
    – https://theconversation.com/business-confidence-in-south-africa-how-a-70-year-old-survey-has-given-early-signals-of-the-economys-pulse-237773

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulator of Social Housing publishes regulatory judgements for ten landlords

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    As part of a set of judgements published today, RSH found that Harlow District Council failed to meet the new consumer standards.

    As a result, RSH has given the landlord a C3 grade, which means there are serious failings and it needs to make significant improvements.

    RSH investigated Harlow Council after reviewing its Tenant Satisfaction Measure (TSM) results. RSH concluded that the council had:

    • Carried out fire risk assessments for only 20% of buildings that it should have done, out of its 9,100 social housing homes.
    • Over 500 high risk fire safety remedial actions overdue, and a further 1,500 medium risk actions overdue (the majority of which are more than 12 months overdue).

    Harlow Council has employed an external consultant to help it to develop a detailed improvement plan as a priority and the RSH will be engaging with the landlord as it addresses these failings

    The Council is working to complete the outstanding fire risk assessments and resulting actions, starting with the highest risk blocks. RSH continues to scrutinise the Council closely and it must demonstrate that it is reducing risks to tenants as it puts these issues right.

    Kate Dodsworth, Chief of Regulatory Engagement at RSH, said:

    It is unacceptable that Harlow Council has failed to meet fire safety requirements. Providing safe, decent homes for tenants begins with robust data, and this must include fire risk assessments for every home that needs one. 

    We identified these failings by scrutinising the council’s TSM results. It is the landlord’s responsibility to notify us themselves of material issues.

    Our new proactive approach and expanded consumer remit is helping to bring issues to the surface earlier. We expect all providers to regularly review and evaluate their services to improve outcomes for tenants.

    The investigation was carried out as part of RSH responsive engagement.

    RSH has also today published a range of other judgements resulting from its ongoing regulatory activity, including seven programmed inspections as well as RSH’s first stability check for a for-profit provider.

    RSH carries out annual stability checks to see whether a provider’s current viability grade is consistent with the financial information submitted in their regulatory returns.

    Provider Governance Viability Consumer Engagement Process Notes
    Saxon Weald G1 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged C2 First grading Programmed inspection  
    Great Places Housing Group G1 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged C2 First grading Programmed inspection  
    Calico Homes G2 Assessed and unchanged V2 Regrade C2 First grading Programmed inspection  
    Bolton at Home G2 Assessed and unchanged V2 Regrade C2 First grading Programmed inspection  
    The Havebury Housing Partnership G1 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged C1 First grading Programmed inspection  
    Rooftop Housing Group G1 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged C2 First grading Programmed inspection  
    Mossacre St Vincent’s Housing Group Limited G1 Assessed and unchanged V2 Assessed and unchanged C2 First grading Programmed inspection  
    Legal and General Affordable Homes G1* V1* N/A Stability check RSH does not assess consumer grades as part of its annual stability checks
    Islington and Shoreditch Housing Association Limited G2 Downgrade V2 Assessed and unchanged N/A Responsive engagement following a self-referral Responsive engagement related to governance issues, so consumer grade not yet assessed

    Landlords must meet the outcomes of the economic and consumer standards set by RSH.

    Governance and financial viability remain cornerstones of RSH’s regulation of housing associations and other private registered providers (including for-profits). Landlords must manage the risks associated with financial viability and reduced capacity with robust governance in place to meet the outcomes of RSH’s standards.

    A C1 grading means that, overall, the landlord is delivering the outcomes of the consumer standards, and they identify issues when they occur and put plans in place to remedy them and minimise their recurrence. We expect that, even where a landlord is assessed as C1, it will continue to review, evaluate and improve its services to tenants.

    C2 means there are some weaknesses in the landlord delivering the outcomes of the consumer standards, and it needs to make improvements.

    Notes to editors

    1. On 1 April 2024 RSH introduced new consumer standards for social housing landlords, designed to drive long-term improvements in the sector. It also began a programme of landlord inspections. The changes are a result of the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023 and include stronger powers to hold landlords to account. More information about RSH’s approach is available in its document Reshaping Consumer Regulation.
    2. We use an asterisk with a for-profit landlord’s grade (for example, G1, V1, C2*) to make it clear that the assessment refers to a landlord that is designated on the register as being for-profit.
    3. More information about RSH’s responsive engagementprogrammed inspections and consumer gradings is also available on its website.

    4. RSH promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver more and better social homes. It does this by setting standards and carrying out robust regulation focusing on driving improvement in social landlords, including local authorities, and ensuring that housing associations are well-governed, financially viable and offer value for money. It takes appropriate action if the outcomes of the standards are not being delivered.

    For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI China: Lebanon rolls out measures to shelter displaced

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    People fleeing from Lebanon are seen at the Jdeidat Yabous border crossing in the countryside of Damascus, Syria, on Sept. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Lebanese ministers announced on Tuesday measures to shelter 27,000 displaced persons from southern Lebanon and suspension of educational activities until the end of the week due to ongoing Israeli raids.

    The 27,000 displaced were seeking refuge in 252 shelters, according to Lebanese Environment Minister Nasser Yassin.

    Yassin said in a press conference for the Ministerial Emergency Committee that “the national operations room and the Higher Relief Commission have been activated to secure the basic needs of the displaced.”

    For his part, Minister of Education and Higher Education Abbas Halabi suspended educational activities in the country until the end of this week while demanding that public schools be opened to receive the displaced.

    He said that in current circumstances, the closure of educational and vocational institutions in the governorates of the south, Nabatieh, Bekaa, Baalbek-Hermel, and the southern suburbs will be extended until the end of this week. The suspension of classes in schools and universities in the governorates of Beirut, Mount Lebanon, and North will also be extended, the minister added.

    Worries about food security and fuel shortages have prompted local citizens to stockpile food and fuel products, alarming officials about a potential rapid depletion of the country’s reserve stock.

    In this regard, Minister of Economy and Trade Amin Salam called on the public to rationalize the storage of food and vital commodities.

    “Let the goods be stored for a week or two or even a month and not more, to ensure that the rest of the citizens obtain their need for basic commodities under the current circumstances,” Salam said.

    He noted that the current wheat stock in the local market is adequate for at least two months and assured the public that supplies are being consistently secured.

    Fuel stations also witnessed a great demand in light of the escalation of Israeli raids, prompting Minister of Energy and Water Walid Fayyad to reassure citizens that “the necessary reserves of petroleum derivatives are available in the medium term.”

    Hezbollah and the Israeli army have been exchanging fire across the Lebanon-Israel border since Oct. 8, 2023.

    On Monday, Israel began its most extensive bombardment of Lebanon since 2006, resulting in more than 550 deaths, including civilians, and over 1,800 injuries across the country. The casualty tolls and the intensity of the attacks have caused panic among Lebanese people.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: UNGA starts general debate to seek global cooperation

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (at the podium and on the screens) delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the General Debate of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sept. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The General Debate of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) began on Tuesday amid growing calls for more international cooperation to address challenges such as climate change, poverty and inequality, while tackling the fallout from ongoing conflicts and global health crises.

    The session saw world leaders heading to New York to deliver their statements as they took part in high-level discussions on the existential threat of sea-level rise, accelerating progress in combating the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, and driving forward the United Nation’s long-term goal of achieving global nuclear disarmament with a plenary meeting marking the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

    President of the 79th session of the UNGA, Philemon Yang, told the opening ceremony that “the General Debate remains one of the world’s most inclusive, representative and authoritative platforms for global reflection and collective action. This year, the urgency of our task cannot be overstated.”

    He noted that countries are falling behind in the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With just five years to go, less than 18 percent have been met. Meanwhile, the climate crisis is “no longer a distant threat” but “here now, ravaging ecosystems and dismantling the livelihoods of entire communities.”

    Yang also addressed the various conflicts raging from the Middle East to Ukraine, and from Haiti to South Sudan. “I call for an immediate ceasefire in all these conflict settings,” he said.

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres opened the General Debate of the 79th session of the General Assembly, saying that the current state of the world is unsustainable, but working together can find solutions.

    “That requires us to make sure the mechanisms of international problem-solving actually solve problems,” he said. “It is time for a just peace based on the UN Charter, international law and UN resolutions.”

    The agenda

    The 79th session of the UNGA opened on Sept. 10, and the first day of the high-level General Debate falls on Tuesday. The 79th session marks a crucial milestone in the global effort to accelerate progress towards the 17 SDGs, according to a UN press release.

    While the overall state of SDGs globally remains of grave concern, the SDG Moment event on Tuesday demonstrates that dramatic progress is still possible between now and 2030. It will do so by highlighting inspiring examples of progress across the world and the role of just and inclusive transitions in accelerating SDG progress.

    World leaders gathered to engage in the annual high-level general debate under the theme “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations.” Heads of state and government and ministers will explore solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.

    On Wednesday, the High-Level Meeting on Sea-Level Rise will convene global leaders, experts and stakeholders to address the urgent and escalating threat of rising sea levels. This meeting will focus on building common understanding, mobilizing political leadership and promoting multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder collaboration and international cooperation towards the objective of “addressing the threats posed by sea-level rise.”

    Participants will work towards developing comprehensive solutions and actionable commitments to combat sea-level rise, ensuring a resilient and sustainable future including for small island developing states and low-lying coastal areas, according to the United Nations.

    On Thursday, the High-level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) presents an opportunity for countries and stakeholders to renew efforts and accelerate progress in combating the growing threat of AMR. This meeting will serve as the foundation for executing policies and ensuring accountability for strengthening health systems against AMR.

    “Building on the momentum of previous declarations and commitments, participants will focus on enhancing international cooperation, promoting the responsible use of antimicrobials, and advancing the development of new treatments to safeguard global health,” said the United Nations.

    Also on Thursday, a high-level meeting will be held for International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

    On Monday, the United Nations just concluded the highly anticipated two-day Summit of the Future, which underscored the urgent need for enhanced international cooperation to address pressing challenges such as climate change, poverty and inequality, while tackling the impacts of ongoing conflicts and global health crises.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: ‘We will not remain silent as apartheid is perpetrated against others’ – President Ramaphosa

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that South Africa will not remain silent and watch as apartheid is perpetrated against others.

    In his address to the Assembly’s annual high-level debate on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said the South African story bears witness to the enduring role of the United Nations in global affairs. 

    In supporting South Africa’s struggle for liberation, the President highlighted that the UN affirmed the principles of the UN Charter – fundamental human rights, the dignity and worth of every person, and the equal rights of nations large and small. 

    “It affirmed the aspiration contained in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that we should strive for a world free of barbarous acts that outrage the conscience of mankind.

    “We South Africans know what apartheid looks like. We lived through it. We suffered and died under it. We will not remain silent and watch as apartheid is perpetrated against others. Through the United Nations and the instruments it wields, we must end this suffering,” the President said. 

    He further reiterated South Africa’s call for an immediate cease fire, and for the release of all hostages.

    He highlighted that the violence the Palestinian people are being subjected to is a grim continuation of more than half a century of apartheid. 

    “The only lasting solution is the establishment of a Palestinian State, existing side by side with Israel with East Jerusalem as its capital,” he said. 

    Earlier this month, The Presidency announced that South Africa is set to submit its Memorial to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in October 2024, presenting evidence to support its claim that Israel is committing genocide in Palestine.

    The Memorial will outline facts and arguments as part of a broader legal effort to hold Israel accountable under international law.

    READ | SA to file Memorial to the ICJ on Israel matter

    Addressing the conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sudan, Yemen, Ukraine, and the Sahel region, the President highlighted the country’s role in supporting international efforts for conflict resolution. 
    “Our moral conscience further demands that we exert every effort to bring peace to the Democratic Republic of Congo, to Sudan, to Yemen, to Ukraine and to the troubled Sahel region. We must realise the aspirations of the people of Western Sahara to self-determination.”

    He emphasised that achieving and maintaining peace and security requires the collective will of the community of nations.

    Reform of the UN Security Council 

    “It requires that the UN Security Council is representative and inclusive. Seventy-eight years since its formation, the structure of the UN Security Council remains largely unchanged. 

    “Africa and its 1,4 billion people remain excluded from its key decision-making structures.  The Security Council has not fulfilled its mandate to maintain international peace and security,” he said. 

    The President called for the UN Security Council to be reformed as a matter of urgency and become more inclusive so that the voices of all nations are heard and considered.

    “Africa stands ready to play its part in building a safer global order. The African Union and its member states are engaged in mediation, dialogue, and diplomacy across the continent, to create conditions under which peace and development can take hold. 

    “There must be greater collaboration between the AU [African Union] and the UN towards resolving these conflicts, and also in addressing their root causes,” he said. 

    President Ramaphosa is leading South Africa’s delegation to the High-Level General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly (UNGA79) in the United States of America.

    The High-Level General Debate of the UNGA79 is taking place at the United Nations headquarters in New York, from 24 to 30 September 2024. 

    Speaking at the African Minerals Forum hosted by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) and Prosper Africa on Monday, the President emphasised the importance of the critical minerals sector in driving global economic growth and sustainability. 

    By leveraging key sectors such as mining, energy, and manufacturing, the President said South Africa is set to improve its business environment and attract much-needed investment.
    The President addressed the session on the sidelines of the UNGA.

    READ | Critical minerals sector key to driving global economic growth

    SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Safety first: Polytechnic junior students explained how to avoid problems

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    A safety lesson for first- and second-year students was held in the White Hall of SPbPU. The event, organized by the Civil Security Department of SPbPU, was also attended by representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for the Kalininsky District of St. Petersburg, the Main Directorate of the Federal Service of the National Guard Troops of the Russian Federation for St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region, the Kalininsky and Vyborgsky District Directorates of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia for St. Petersburg, and the private educational institution of additional professional education “Fire Safety”.

    Head of the Department for Ensuring Anti-Terrorist Security and Safety at SPbPU Facilities Aleksandr Fedorov reported that the peace of the Polytechnics is protected by employees of the organization “Kvadrat”. 98 people are on duty at 65 stationary posts, another seven groups periodically drive around the territory by car and two mini-scooters. In addition, the university campus is patrolled around the clock by the Russian National Guard.

    All entrances and exits of the university are equipped with access control and management systems, students and staff use electronic passes. In the academic buildings and dormitories, 45 panic buttons are installed – the call goes to the centralized security point of the Russian Guard. Order is also monitored by 3.5 thousand video surveillance cameras.

    The University Security Center operates 24/7. You can call it in case of danger at the following numbers: 7 (812) 534-61-18, 7 921 940-66-75.

    To practice the actions of employees and students in emergency situations, the Civil Security Department regularly conducts exercises and training.

    Alexander Fyodorov reminded that smoking is prohibited on the entire territory of the Polytechnic University – not only indoors, but also outdoors, including in the park. This applies to both regular cigarettes and electronic ones. Smoking areas are located behind the fence.

    Deputy Head of the Supervisory and Preventive Work Department of the Vyborg District Pavel Proshkin spoke about the operation of fire protection systems, which fire extinguishers are best to use in what conditions, and answered questions.

    “It is important for you to know that when the fire alarm goes off, you must immediately leave the building,” Pavel Aleksandrovich emphasized. “You can only start putting out a fire yourself when the fire is small and you understand that you can cope with it. If the fire has developed, then there is no need to be a hero. It is better to help get people out and notify the fire department. The 112 telephone number accepts all calls, and professionals will be sent to help you immediately.”

    Deputy Director of the Center for Professional Education “Fire Safety” Alexander Salabutin spoke in detail about compliance with fire safety rules at the university and dormitories. He said that recently the number of fires of devices with lithium-ion batteries, in particular, electric scooters, has increased. There are special fire extinguishers for them. Alexander Nikolaevich noted that the use of electric scooters is prohibited on the territory of the university.

    The students were also addressed by the Deputy Chief of Police of the Kalininsky District Alexey Amosyonok and the Chairman of the Council of Veterans of the OMON “Baltika” (on transport), a member of the St. Petersburg city branch of “Combat Brotherhood” Vadim Matveyev. They warned about the danger and consequences of thoughtless actions that young people can commit at the very beginning of their independent life. They explained in what situations one should be vigilant and careful so as not to harm their future.

    At the end of the lesson, youth workers from the Harmony Volunteer Projects Center, rescuers and first aid instructors Violetta Lee and Tatyana Plekhanova talked about what volunteering in the Emergencies Ministry is, and invited people to join their work and participate in collecting humanitarian aid.

    Arina Puchkova, head of the student fire and rescue squad “Pyotr Velikiy”, also spoke. She reported that the squad is part of the All-Russian Student Rescue Corps, whose main activity is assistance in eliminating emergency situations, and announced that a new recruitment will soon be taking place: those who wish can join.

    Photo archive

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

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

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/student_life/safety-above-all-junior-year-students-of-Polytechnic-explained-how-to-avoid-problems/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM to visit Maharashtra on 26 September

    Source: Government of India

    PM to visit Maharashtra on 26 September

    PM to lay foundation stone and dedicate to nation various projects worth over Rs. 22,600 crore

    PM to dedicate to nation three PARAM Rudra Supercomputers

    PM to launch and dedicate to nation various initiatives of petroleum and natural gas sector worth Rs. 10,400 crore

    PM to inaugurate Solapur Airport

    PM to dedicate to nation Bidkin Industrial Area

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 2:28PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Pune, Maharashtra on 26th September. At around 6 PM, from District Court Metro Station, he will flag off the Metro train scheduled to run from District court to Swargate, Pune. Thereafter at around 6:30 PM, he will inaugurate, lay the foundation stone and dedicate to the nation various projects worth over Rs. 22,600 crore.

    The inauguration of Pune Metro section of District Court to Swargate will mark the completion of Pune Metro Rail Project (Phase-1). The cost of the underground section between District Court to Swargate is around Rs 1,810 crore.

    Further, Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for Swargate-Katraj Extension of Pune Metro Phase-1 to be developed at the cost of around Rs 2,950 crore. This southern extension of around 5.46 km is completely underground with three stations namely Market Yard, Padmavati and Katraj.

    Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the Memorial for Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule’s First Girls’ School at Bhidewada.

    In line with his commitment to make India self-reliant in the field of Supercomputing technology, Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation three PARAM Rudra Supercomputers worth around Rs. 130 crore, developed indigenously under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM). These supercomputers have been deployed in Pune, Delhi and Kolkata to facilitate pioneering scientific research. Giant Metre Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Pune will leverage the supercomputer to explore Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) and other astronomical phenomena. Inter University Accelerator Centre (IUAC) in Delhi will enhance research in fields like material science and atomic physics. S.N. Bose Centre in Kolkata will drive advanced research in areas such as physics, cosmology, and earth sciences.

    Prime Minister will also inaugurate a High-Performance Computing (HPC) system tailored for weather and climate research. This project represents an investment of Rs. 850 crore, marking a significant leap in India’s computational capabilities for meteorological applications.  Located at two key sites, the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune and the National Center for Medium Range Weather Forecast (NCMRWF) in Noida, this HPC system has extraordinary computing power. The new HPC systems are named ‘Arka’ and ‘Arunika,’ reflecting their connection to the Sun. These high-resolution models will significantly enhance the accuracy and lead time of predictions related to tropical cyclones, heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, hailstorms, heat waves, droughts, and other critical weather phenomena.

    Prime Minister will launch and dedicate to the nation various initiatives of petroleum and natural gas sector worth Rs. 10,400 crore. These initiatives will focus on energy, infrastructure, safety and convenience of truck and cab drivers, cleaner mobility and a sustainable future.

    To enable ease of driving, Prime Minister will launch the Way Side Amenities for truck drivers at Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra; Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab; Songadh, Gujarat; Belagavi and Bangalore Rural, Karnataka. With the objective of developing modern facilities for the comfortable journey break at one place designed to cater to the needs of truckers and cab drivers during their long journeys, way side amenities such as affordable boarding and lodging facilities, clean toilets, safe parking space, cooking area, WiFi, Gym, etc. are being developed at a cost of around Rs. 2,170 crore at 1,000 retail outlets.

    To develop multiple energy choices like petrol, diesel, CNG, EV, CBG, Ethanol blended petrol (EBP), etc. at one retail outlet, Prime Minister will launch Energy Stations. Nearly 4,000 energy stations would be developed over Golden Quadrilateral, East-West and North-South Corridors and other major highways over next  5 years at a cost of around Rs. 6000 crore. Energy stations will help in providing seamless mobility through provision of alternate fuels under one roof to the energy seeking customers.

    To facilitate smooth transition to Green Energy, De-carbonization and Net Zero Emission and reducing the range anxiety of Electric Vehicle drivers, Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation 500 EV charging facilities. Further, 10,000 EV Charging stations (EVCS) are being targeted to be developed by FY 2025 at an estimated cost of Rs. 1,500 crore.

    Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation 20 Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) stations across the country including 3 in Maharashtra. To promote the adoption of clean fuel such as LNG for long distance transportation, 50 LNG Fuel Stations will be developed in various states of the country by Oil and Gas companies at a cost of around Rs. 500 crore.

    Prime Minister will also dedicate to the nation 1500 E20 (20% ethanol blended) petrol retail outlets worth around Rs 225 crore.

    Prime Minister will inaugurate the Solapur Airport which would significantly improve connectivity, making Solapur more accessible to tourists, business travellers and investors. The existing terminal Building of Solapur has been revamped to serve around 4.1 lakh passengers annually.

    Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation Bidkin Industrial Area, a transformative project covering an expansive 7,855 acres under the National Industrial Corridor Development Program of Govt. of India, situated 20 kms south of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in Maharashtra. The project developed under Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor holds immense potential as a vibrant economic hub in the Marathwada region. Central Government has approved this project with an overall project cost of over Rs. 6,400 crore for development in 3 phases.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare releases Final Estimates of major agricultural crops for 2023-24

    Source: Government of India

    Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare releases Final Estimates of major agricultural crops for 2023-24

    Record Foodgrains production of 3322.98 LMT

    Record Rice production of 1378.25 LMT

    Record Wheat production of 1132.92 LMT

    Record production of Rapeseed & Mustard 132.59 LMT

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 1:33PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has released Final Estimates of production of Major Agricultural Crops for the year 2023-24. These estimates have been primarily prepared on the basis of information received from States/ UTs. The crop area has been validated and triangulated with information received from Remote Sensing, Weekly Crop Weather Watch Group and other agencies. Crop yields estimates are majorly based on Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) conducted nationwide. The process of recording CCEs has been re-engineered with the introduction of the Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES), which was rolled out in major States during the 2023-24 agricultural years. The new system has ensured the transparency and robustness of the yield estimates.

    The total Foodgrain production in the country during 2023-24 is estimated at record 3322.98 LMT which is higher by 26.11 LMT than the production of food grains of 3296.87 LMT achieved during 2022-23. Food grain production witnessed record increase due to good production of Rice, Wheat and Shree Anna.

    Total Rice production during 2023-24 is estimated at record 1378.25 LMT. It is higher by 20.70 LMT than previous year’s Rice production of 1357.55 LMT. The Wheat production during 2023-24 is estimated at record 1132.92 LMT. It is higher by 27.38 LMT than previous year’s wheat production of 1105.54 LMT and production of Shree Anna is estimated at 175.72 LMT as compared to 173.21 LMT during previous year.

    During 2023-24, there were drought-like conditions in southern states, including Maharashtra & prolonged dry spell during August especially in Rajasthan. The moisture stress from the drought also affected the Rabi season. This mainly impacted production of pulses, coarse cereals, soybean & cotton.

    The details of production of various crops are given as under:

    Total Foodgrains– 3322.98 LMT (record)

    • Rice -1378.25 LMT (record)
    • Wheat – 1132.92 LMT (record)
    • Nutri / Coarse Cereals – 569.36 LMT
    • Maize – 376.65 LMT
    • Total Pulses – 242.46 LMT
    • Shree Anna– 175.72 LMT
    • Tur – 34.17 LMT
    • Gram – 110.39 LMT

    Total Oilseeds– 396.69 LMT

    • Groundnut – 101.80 LMT
    • Soybean – 130.62 LMT
    • Rapeseed & Mustard – 132.59 LMT (record)

    Sugarcane – 4531.58 LMT

    Cotton – 325.22 Lakh Bales (170 Kgs. each)

    Jute & Mesta – 96.92 Lakh Bales (180 Kgs. each)

    The details of Final Estimate for 2023-24 along with previous estimates are available on upag.gov.in.

    *****

    SS

     

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Astronomers map the Differential Rotation of the Sun’s Chromosphere using 100 Years of Kodaikanal Data

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 1:31PM by PIB Delhi

    Using 100 years daily records of the Sun at the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, astronomers have succeeded in mapping, for the very first time, the variation in the rotation speed of the Sun’s chromosphere, from the equator right up to its polar regions. The research can help give a complete picture of the Sun’s inner workings.

    Earth spins like a rigid ball, completing a full rotation every 24 hours. This rotation is the same everywhere on Earth, from bustling Bangalore to the icy plains of Antarctica. The Sun, however, has a completely different story to tell. Being a giant ball of plasma, different parts of the Sun rotate at different speeds, depending on their latitude. It has been known for a long time that the Sun’s equator spins much faster than its poles. It takes the equatorial region only about 25 days to complete one rotation, while the poles take a leisurely 35 days. This difference in rotation speed is called differential rotation. Understanding the intricacies of the variation in rotation speed, as a function of latitude as well as time, is crucial to understand the Sun itself. This is because the interaction of differential rotation with the Sun’s magnetic field is what is behind the solar dynamo, the 11-year solar cycle, and its periods of intense activity that even produce magnetic storms on Earth.

    The discovery of differential rotation dates back to Carrington in the 19th century, who observed that sunspots on the visible surface of the Sun rotated at different speeds depending on their latitude. However, sunspots do not appear at latitudes higher than about 35 degrees north or south of the solar equator, and other methods had to be used to measure differential rotation closer to the polar latitudes. These either relied on spectrographs which are not easy to use for this particular purpose, or had to wait for those rare sunspots that occurred occasionally at higher latitudes. These methods are unsuited to confirm reports how the differential rotation itself varies with time over a solar cycle, etc.

    Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), an autonomous institute of DST, used solar plages and networks from daily records of the Sun stretching over 100 years, maintained by the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics.  The observatory celebrates its 125th anniversary this year.

    “The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is just one of two such places in the entire world with such long-term data”, said Muthu Priyal, a co-author of the study, working at IIA.  “We hit on the idea of using solar plages and networks to measure rotation speeds. Images captured at the specific wavelength of 393.3 nanometers (due to the Calcium K spectral line) showcase the lower and middle chromosphere and display prominent features like plages (bright regions) and network cells (convective structures)”, she added.

    Plages, unlike sunspots, are brighter regions with weaker magnetic fields. They reside in the chromosphere, and are significantly larger than sunspots, ranging from 3 to 10 times the size of sunspots. Network features, on the other hand, are embedded with weaker magnetic fields and are about 30,000 km across – slightly larger than individual sunspots but smaller than sunspot groups. Unlike sunspots, both plages and networks are continuously present across the Sun’s surface throughout the solar cycle, allowing the scientists to probe the rotation rate even at the poles.

    The Observatory had meticulously documented the chromosphere using photographic plates and films and this invaluable data has recently been digitized using a large-format CCD camera, making it accessible to researchers worldwide. “We decided to use this treasure trove of information and meticulously extracted data on plages and network features from the images. These features were then categorized based on their location within 10-degree latitude bands across both the Sun’s northern and southern hemispheres”, said Prof Jagdev Singh of IIA, and a co-author of the paper.

    By analyzing this data, the team was able to extract the rotation period of these features at various latitudes. This revealed a clear picture of the Sun’s differential rotation – faster at the equator (13.98 degrees per day) and slower towards the poles (10.5 degrees per day at 80 degrees latitude). Intriguingly, both plages and network features displayed remarkably similar rotation rates. This suggests a potential shared origin of both plages and networks, possibly rooted deep within the Sun’s interior below the photosphere (the visible surface).

    Said Prof. B. Ravindra of IIA, “This work signifies the first-time scientists have successfully utilized chromospheric network cells to map the Sun’s rotation from equator to pole. Understanding the Sun’s differential rotation is crucial for comprehending its magnetic field and activity. This research using chromospheric features paves the way for a more complete picture of the Sun’s inner workings”.

    This paper was published in the Astrophysical Journal, titled “Equator to Pole Solar Chromospheric Differential Rotation Using Ca-K Features Derived from Kodaikanal Data”, and was authored by Kharayat, Hema (Indian Institute of Astrophysics and M.L.K.P.G. College, Balrampur) and Singh, Jagdev, Priyal, Muthu and Ravindra, B. from Indian Institute of Astrophysics.

    Reference The Astrophysical Journal, 968:53 (9pp), 2024 June 20

    Article link: https://automatedtest.iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4357/ad4992

    Figure: This schematic illustrates the Sun’s differential rotation, where surface regions at various latitudes rotate at different speeds.

     

    Figure: Calcium-K spectroheliogram of the Sun, captured at the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory on April 11, 1936. The image highlights the chromosphere, showcasing plages (bright regions) and networks (web-like features) associated with the Sun’s magnetic activity.

    Figure:  This figure depicts the Sun’s differential rotation, where different latitudes rotate at varying speeds. The data points (shown in different colors) represent rotation rates measured using features like plages and different types of network regions in the Sun’s chromosphere.

    ***

    AG

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav Presides over 69th Foundation Day Celebrations of AIIMS New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav Presides over 69th Foundation Day Celebrations of AIIMS New Delhi

    AIIMS New Delhi is a pioneer in the field of medical education, research and healthcare in India whose legacy of excellence continues to inspire medical institutions worldwide: Shri Jadhav

    “AIIMS continuous unchallenged status of being ranked number one among medical institutions of India for the seventh consecutive year is a remarkable achievement”

    AIIMS New Delhi now serves as the National Resource Centre of the National Medical College Network of the Union Health Ministry

    In the last 2 years, inpatient beds in AIIMS have increased by more than 30%, Intensive care and operation theatre services by nearly 40%

    Posted On: 25 SEP 2024 2:49PM by PIB Delhi

    AIIMS New Delhi is a pioneer in the field of medical education, research and healthcare in India whose legacy of excellence continues to inspire medical institutions worldwide.” This was stated by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav as he presided over the 69th Foundation Day ceremony of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, today.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Jadhav said, “AIIMS New Delhi has achieved remarkable milestones and is determined to achieve its goal of being one of the top-ranked medical institutions in the world.” Highlighting that for the seventh consecutive year since the National Institute Ranking Framework (NIRF), AIIMS New Delhi has been ranked number one among medical institutions of India, the Union Minister said, “this Institute’s continuous unchallenged status is a remarkable achievement.”

     

    He informed that AIIMS New Delhi now serves as the National Resource Centre of the National Medical College Network (NMCN) of the Ministry of Health and Family welfare. This has enabled linkages with more than 100 medical colleges for enhancing undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing medical education. “This objective is being facilitated by the creation of a National Learning Management & Information System, SAKSHYAM, which was launched last year”, he said.

     

     

    Shri Jadhav highlighted that AIIMS New Delhi has established a Centre of Excellence for development of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Created by MOHFW, this centre is expected to deliver AI based solutions for evaluation of chest x-rays, early detection of diabetic retinopathy, and identification of skin lesions, among other tools, for enhancing national programs. He noted that “AIIMS is set to be the biggest robotic surgery skill training centre with 2 state-of-the-art robotic surgery equipment dedicated for training of surgeons.”

     

    It was informed that over 900 extramural research projects are being funded by national and international agencies, amounting to a total grant of nearly Rs. 200 crores while AIIMS itself has funded over 240 intramural research projects apart from providing travel fellowships to students, residents, PhD scholars, and staff to participate in national and international conferences. AIIMS Delhi has also started the Centre for Medical Innovation & Entrepreneurship as a Bio-Incubator under the BIRAC – BioNEST Scheme.

    Shri Jadhav said that AIIMS has planned for building a new hostel complex with 2200 rooms, with an estimated cost of approximately Rs 900 crores. He also highlighted new academic facilities that were added recently such as the Mother and Child Block, Surgery Block and the National Centre of Ageing which are fully functional now. Over the last 2 years, the inpatient beds have increased by more than 30%, Intensive care and operation theatre services by nearly 40%. These new facilities will improve the ability of AIIMS to cater to the huge clinical demand. AIIMS has also been entrusted with the responsibility to operationalize the Central Armed Police Forces Institute of Medical Sciences (CAPFIMS) at Maidangarhi.

    The Union Minister kicked off the Foundation Day celebration by officially inaugurating an exhibition showcasing the innovative research and projects undertaken by various departments at AIIMS. He also took a tour of the exhibition.

    The Union Minister also inaugurated the awards ceremony, recognizing the achievements of students and staff with medals and book prizes. Awards were also given for outstanding contributions to the Institute Day Exhibition, celebrating excellence in research and innovation.

    AIIMS New Delhi has undertaken various IT initiatives and has developed various softwares in-house for a wide range of services. The SANTUSHT portal enables patients to register their grievances online, track the status, and provide feedback regarding the resolution. To increase transparency and to maintain the trust that the patients have in AIIMS, realtime dashboards have been developed and made available to the public. The management of IT infrastructure and network has also been digitized for prompt resolution of any hardware or network issues. Triage Register for Emergency Department is a web application which helps to keep the record of patient’s Disease Condition, Medical Examination and improves patient safety by ensuring timely cross-consultation by various departments. The Union Minister launched these digital initiatives during the event. He also inaugurated a fire station at AIIMS which will have a manpower of 6 men. It is the first such station exclusively for any medical institute.

    Prof. M Srinivas, Director, AIIMS New Delhi said “AIIMS has already received NABH certification for some of its blocks and centers and is in the process of NABH certification of all the centers including the main hospital. He highlighted that NABL accreditation of all laboratories in a phased manner is under process. He also informed that AIIMS has also been the forerunner in the implementation of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). “It has overcome various challenges and has been a role model for the country by creating more than 7 lakh ABHA IDs and more than 20 lakh scan and share tokens”, he said.

     

    Background:

    Established in 1956, AIIMS was created with the vision of providing high-quality medical education and comprehensive healthcare services. The institute was established as part of a larger effort to address the critical need for well-trained healthcare professionals in India. Recognizing the challenges in healthcare access and quality, the Indian government aimed to create an institution that would set benchmarks in medical training and patient care.

    From its inception, AIIMS has been a pioneer in developing innovative medical practices and cutting-edge research. Its comprehensive approach includes a focus on preventive, curative, and rehabilitative care, making it a model for medical institutions across the country. Over the decades, AIIMS has evolved to become not just a premier medical college, but also a leading research center, contributing significantly to advances in various fields of medicine.

    Importance of AIIMS in National Healthcare

    AIIMS, New Delhi, has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s healthcare landscape. Here are some key aspects of its importance:

    1. Quality Medical Education: AIIMS has been instrumental in training thousands of medical professionals who have gone on to serve in various capacities across the country. Its rigorous academic programs ensure that students receive not only theoretical knowledge but also practical training, enabling them to provide high-quality care to patients.
    2. Research and Innovation: The institute is known for its cutting-edge research in various fields, including cardiology, oncology, and neuroscience. AIIMS researchers have made significant contributions to medical science, often translating their findings into real-world applications that benefit patients.
    3. Public Health Initiatives: AIIMS has actively engaged in public health outreach programs, focusing on preventive care and health education. These initiatives aim to improve healthcare access for marginalized communities, aligning with the government’s goals to promote health equity.
    4. National Health Policies: AIIMS has served as an advisory body to the government on various health policies and programs. Its research findings and expert recommendations have influenced health policy decisions, ensuring that they are evidence-based and aligned with the needs of the population.
    5. Response to Health Crises: During health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, AIIMS played a crucial role in managing care, conducting research, and providing guidance on best practices. Its leadership in crisis management has been vital in safeguarding public health.

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    MV

    HFW/MoS AIIMS Foundation Day/25th September 2024/2

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  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Announces New Investments to Protect Freshwater Resources, Enhance Drought and Climate  Resilience

    Source: The White House

    Our nation’s lakes, rivers, streams, estuaries, and wetlands are fundamental to the health, prosperity, and resilience of our communities and are held sacred by many Tribal Nations. They are not only the sources of clean drinking water that flows into the taps of our homes, but are also economic drivers supporting jobs and outdoor recreation across the nation. By absorbing and storing carbon, our nation’s waterways and wetlands – and the forests, grasslands, and farmlands they nourish – also play a critical role in the fight against climate change.

    Since Day One, the Biden-Harris Administration has worked to secure clean water for all communities, protect our vital freshwater resources, and mitigate the impacts of drought. Given that communities often acutely experience the climate crisis through water-related impacts – from floods and droughts to polluted drinking sources and waterways – this Administration is making historic investments through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to protect, conserve, and restore our freshwater basins and ecosystems.

    Meanwhile, many Republicans in Congress continue to deny the very existence of climate change and remain committed to repealing the President’s Inflation Reduction Act – the biggest climate protection bill ever – which would undermine the health, safety, and economic vitality of their own constituents.

    Today, during Climate Week, the White House is announcing new funding and whole-of-government initiatives that build upon its ambitious freshwater agenda and help restore and conserve our freshwater resources and address climate impacts felt across the nation:

    • Investing in Long-Term Colorado River Basin Resilience: The Biden-Harris Administration is leading a comprehensive effort to make Western communities more resilient to climate change and address the ongoing megadrought across the region, including the Colorado River Basin, by harnessing the full resources of President Biden’s historic Investing in America agenda. The Administration’s investments in the Lower Colorado River Basin bridge the immediate need for water conservation while moving toward improved system efficiency and more durable long-term solutions. Overall, the funding for long-term water conservation initiatives in the Lower Basin is expected to save more than 1 million acre-feet of water, putting the Basin on a path to a more resilient and sustainable water future.
      • The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation is announcing the execution of the first three contracts for long-term water conservation under the Lower Colorado Basin System Conservation and Efficiency Program. Totaling approximately $107 million, taken together these first three projects – all with the Gila River Indian Community in the Lower Colorado River Basin of Arizona – will provide over 73,000 acre-feet of water conservation to support the sustainability of Lake Mead while also helping ensure long-term water resilience for the Community. The Bureau of Reclamation is also working on the companion program for the Upper Basin, which will provide additional water savings for the Basin’s long-term sustainability.
      • The Bureau of Reclamation is working with the following sponsors in the Lower Colorado Basin to negotiate water conservation contracts for ten additional proposed projects, including:
        • City of Phoenix
        • City of Tucson
        • Coachella Valley Water District
        • Salt River Valley Water Users’ Association & Salt River Project Agricultural Improvement and Power District
        • San Diego County Water Authority
        • Southern Nevada Water Authority
        • The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
        • Town of Gilbert
    • The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation is also signing agreements with the Imperial Irrigation District and the Bard Water District in partnership with the Metropolitan Water District in California to ensure the conservation of up to 717,100acre-feet of water by 2026. This water will remain in Lake Mead in an effort to benefit the Colorado River System and its users.
    • Investing in Indian Country: The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation has announced historic Tribal water infrastructure investments totaling over $1.2 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation Reduction Act, Reclamation Water Settlement funding, and annual appropriations. This includes a new investment of $9.4 million for Tribal drought relief and technical assistance projects that will restore wetlands, improve irrigation efficiency, and support groundwater monitoring.
    • Reconnecting Waterways and Restoring Aquatic Ecosystems: With over $3 billion in funding for ecosystem restoration and fish passage projects, the Investing in America agenda is helping secure cleaner rivers, safer communities, greater recreational opportunities, and improved fish and wildlife habitat, driving change across the landscape for people, communities, species, and ecosystems.
      • The Administration is announcing a suite of 10 transformational fish passage projects that to date have received over $150 million from eight Federal agencies. When completed, these fish passage and aquatic connectivity projects – located in communities from Maine to Ohio to California – will reconnect nearly 5,000 miles of rivers and streams across the United States. Reconnecting waterways allows natural functions to be restored in freshwater systems, improving their climate resilience and water quality, and therefore their ability to protect communities from catastrophic floods, droughts, catastrophic wildfire, and water pollution. Improving fish passage and reconnecting aquatic systems is one of the most effective ways to help conserve vulnerable species, while building safer infrastructure for communities and improving climate resilience. To date, the Administration has spent over $970 million on more than 600 fish passage projects in 45 states across the country.
      • The Department of the Interior today is announcing an additional $92 million in new resources from the Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSMART Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Program to help restore important salmon and other native fish habitat across the West. These projects, when complete, will provide increased water quality, floodplain stability, and drought resiliency.
    • Collaborating with Stakeholders to Protect Freshwater Systems: At a Climate Week NYC event focused on the Global Freshwater Challenge, White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory announced a doubling of new partners in the America the Beautiful Freshwater Challenge – a nationwide initiative to protect, restore, and reconnect 8 million acres of wetlands and 100,000 miles of our nation’s rivers and streams by 2030. Over 100 members from across the country initially signed on to support freshwater restoration in their communities. That number has now more than doubled to over 211, including 14 states, 16 Tribal entities, 27 local governments, and 79 private sector members.

    Today’s announcements build on recent actions that deliver on the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to ensuring safe drinking water, including providing approximately $1 billion in funding to bring safe, clean water to Tribal communities; finalizing the first-ever standard to protect communities from toxic “forever chemicals,” along with rulemakings to hold polluters responsible for PFAS cleanup and to enhance safeguards against dangerous chemical spills in our nation’s waters; and continuing to deliver on President Biden’s goal to replace every lead pipe in America in the next decade. The Department of the Interior has invested more than $6.95 billion to fund over 831 Western water projects through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act; the Environmental Protection Agency has leveraged more than $9 billion in the last two years alone to communities across the West; and other agencies from the Department of Agriculture to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continue to make investments that increase water availability, reduce water use, and enhance resilience.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Creative Life Industry Asia-Pacific Forum Collaborates with Industries to Co-create a Sustainable Value Chain

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    The Industrial Development Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs, hosted the “2024 Creative Life Industry Asia-Pacific Forum” on 12th at National Chung Hsing University. Experts from Thailand and Singapore, along with representatives from Taiwan’s Creative Life Industry, gathered under the theme “Co-Creating a Sustainable Value Chain” to share international creative trends, brainstorm strategies for sustainable development in the creative life sector, and foster cross-sector collaboration opportunities. The forum attracted over 200 participants and encouraged more quality enterprises to join the Creative Life Industry.

    Keynote speakers at the forum included Duangrit Bunnag from a renowned Thai architectural firm, and Ben Liu, CEO of Taiwan’s The One Nanyuan Humanity Inn, who shared how architectural and cultural aesthetics inspire unique cultural values and lifestyles. Somsak Boonkam, founder of Thailand’s Local Alike, and James Cho, general manager of Taiwan’s Joye Cottage, discussed business models that promote local economic development by combining sustainable environments, natural landscapes, rich cultural crafts, and warm human interaction. Singaporean designer Jackson Tan and Taiwan’s Yoshantea Executive Vice President Andy Chen shared their journeys in aesthetic and sustainable brand design. Furthermore, EBC News weather anchor Rita Wang offered insights from a media perspective, sharing her observations on how businesses can preserve culture and promote sustainable development amid global changes.

    In response to changing lifestyles and consumption patterns, the Industrial Development Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs, has been promoting the Creative Life Industry since 2003. Through expert evaluations, it has identified high-quality lifestyle enterprises that embody core knowledge, deep experiences, and aesthetic excellence. To date, there are 166 such businesses in Taiwan, offering diverse lifestyle experiences ranging from food culture, fashion, craftsmanship, education, and ecology to cultural heritage.

    The Industrial Development Administration is committed to leading Taiwan’s industries toward upgrading, transformation, and enhanced competitiveness. It also supports the Creative Life Industry in developing sustainable business practices by integrating culture and aesthetics with industrial innovation. Through international exchanges and collaborations, the aim is to create a future that combines economic value with sustainability.

    For more information, please visit the Creative Life website: https://www.creativelife.org.tw/.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor – News Release – Gov. Green Lauds Top State Manager, Employee and Team of the Year

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA

    GOVERNOR GREEN LAUDS TOP STATE MANAGER, EMPLOYEE AND TEAM OF THE YEAR

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    September 24, 2024

    HONOLULU — Governor Josh Green, M.D., today recognized winners of the Governor’s Awards, designed to honor state Executive Branch employees, managers and work teams who exemplify the highest caliber of public service and dedication in serving the people of Hawai‘i. The statewide program is administered by the Department of Human Resources Development.

    “Public employees have made important contributions to our continuing efforts to improve the efficiency and quality of government services,” said Governor Green. “We are honored to work with such dedicated individuals and appreciate all they do each and every day.”

    Governor Green presented the awards for:

    STATE MANAGER OF THE YEAR: Joanna Seto, Administrator, Department of Health

    Faced with extraordinary responsibilities, including the Red Hill Fuel crisis, Joanna’s skills and successes have never been more apparent than after the Maui wildfires. She actively led her team through the response and recovery phases and continues to help hone their skills to assist the community in rehabilitating the environment. Leading by example, her team is committed to its mission – to protect human health and the environment.

    STATE EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: Heidi Taogoshi, Registered Nurse, Department of Health

    In the aftermath of the Maui Wildfires, Heidi quickly assessed the needs of the Lahaina community resulting in the deployment of mobile medical teams and the conversion of an abandoned state building into a health care clinic to provide essential services to those affected by the wildfires. With her guidance, management of the clinic was transferred to community providers, ensuring continued services to the people of Lahaina.

    STATE TEAM OF THE YEAR: UH Maui College Culinary Arts Team, University of Hawai‘i

    When the UH Maui College Pa‘ina Building was transformed into a fire relief food hub after the wildfires, the Culinary Arts team worked with organizations to prepare meals for residents displaced by the fire. The team also created a Disaster Relief Food Preparation Experience course, designed for students to work with industry chefs and instructors to learn about disaster relief food preparation and distribution.

    The three winners were selected from 56 exceptional groups and individual nominees.  A volunteer Selection Committee of four prominent members of the community carefully reviewed the 56 nomination packets and rated them according to defined categories.  The committee presented its recommendations for the three awards to Governor Green.

    The four members of this year’s Selection Committee are: Hawai‘i Public Radio host and news team member Catherine Cruz; City and County of Honolulu Homeless Coordinator Sam Moku; Hawai‘i Convention Center/ASM Global General Manager Teri Orton, and Office of the Governor Chief of Staff Brooke Wilson.

    At this year’s ceremony, Governor Green also recognized the recipients of the 2020 Governor’s Awards for Employee, Manager and Team of the Year for their outstanding achievements due to the cancellation of the May 2020 ceremony during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The 2020 Selection Committee, comprising John Gotanda, president, Hawai‘i Pacific University; Catherine Cruz, host and news team member, Hawai‘i Public Radio; Marc Alexander, then-executive director, Mayor’s Office of Housing; Terri Funakoshi, director of operations, YWCA O‘ahu; and Jason Hagiwara, president and general Manager, KITV4 Island Television, selected the award recipients from 53 exceptional groups and individual nominees. They are:

    2020 STATE MANAGER OF THE YEAR: BONNIE KAHAKUI, state procurement assistant administrator, Department of Accounting and General Services

    Bonnie sets the pace in her office, always looking ahead and focusing on improving practices and procedures. She launched a new Learning Management System, recording more than 14,000 attendees at procurement training workshops and worked to broaden the purchasing process and take advantage of Amazon’s wide selection. Bonnie also led a statewide initiative to procure electric vehicles and infrastructure to help reduce Hawai‘i’s carbon footprint.

    2020 STATE EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: JANIS MATSUNAGA, entomologist, Department of Agriculture

    She is a leading expert in the field, editor of the Proceedings of the Hawaiian Entomological Society and is one of the longest serving officers in the 100-plus year history of the Hawaiian Entomological Society. Through emails or social media, Ms. Matsunaga will often bring peace of mind to the residents of Hawai‘i by defining problems with beetles infesting cabinetry or address insect problems that exist in their homes.

    2020 STATE TEAM OF THE YEAR: CORRECTIONS PROGRAMS SERVICES (CPS) – EDUCATION BRANCH, Department of Public Safety

    Education gives us knowledge and provides the necessary skills to navigate the world around us. When inmates become students of the Education Branch, they are more likely to find employment, make a positive contribution to society and strengthen family relations. The public benefits from reduced government costs, decreased crime rates, safer communities and a reduced tendency of convicted criminals to reoffend. In 2019, the Team produced 28 GED graduates, with 3 students passing the HiSET. (The Department of Public Safety was redesignated as the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation effective January 1, 2024.)

    “These individuals have selflessly given of themselves to enrich the lives of those they serve,” said Governor Green. “Their accomplishments perpetuate the aloha spirit and make our state a special place to live and work.”

    Photos from today’s awards ceremony will be uploaded here.

    # # #

    Media Contacts:   
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Phone: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected]

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    Erin Conner
    Executive Specialist
    Department of Human Resources Development
    Phone: 808-587-1120
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs bipartisan legislation to strengthen California’s gun laws

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 24, 2024

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom today signed a bipartisan legislative package to further reinforce California’s nation-leading gun laws and prevent traumatic incidents of mass violence. The laws build on California’s successful strategies to address gun violence, including new measures to reduce domestic violence. 

    SACRAMENTO — Building on California’s nation-leading gun laws, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed a number of bills into law to bolster California’s nation-leading gun laws, adding stronger protections against gun violence. 

    “California won’t wait until the next school shooting or mass shooting to act. In the absence of congressional action, our state is once again leading the way by strengthening our nation-leading gun laws. Data shows that California’s gun safety laws are effective in preventing gun-related deaths — which makes the ongoing inaction and obstruction by politicians in the pocket of the gun lobby even more reprehensible.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    What these new laws do

    PROTECT KIDS FROM GUNS by strengthening safe storage requirements and creating stricter penalties for gun owners whose guns are accessed by a child, resulting in death or injury to themselves or others. Strengthens safety measures to protect students during active threats.

    PREVENT GUN-RELATED HATE CRIMES by building on California’s red flag laws and creating more training for law enforcement officers and courts to assess and identify extremism and potential for hate-based crimes, allowing more effective use of restraining orders. 

    SAFEGUARD VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE by creating more training and tools for child custody caseworkers and law enforcement officers to determine whether abusers may have access to guns. 

    ✅ PROVIDE MORE TOOLS TO KEEP GUNS OUT OF DANGEROUS HANDS by restricting animal abusers and persons found incompetent to stand trial from possessing firearms, as well as by strengthening California’s red flag laws.

    ✅ INCREASE INFORMATION-SHARING TO CLOSE ENFORCEMENT GAPS by making it easier for California courts to ensure that people who are deemed a threat to themselves or others no longer have access to firearms. 

    California’s history of gun violence prevention

    California has long led the way in enacting commonsense and effective protections against gun violence. California’s gun safety laws save lives. The Golden State is ranked #1 for gun safety and last year experienced a gun death rate 43% lower than the national average. In comparison, Texas and Florida, who ranked 31st and 24th respectively in gun law strength, had firearm mortality rates more than 1.5 times that of California. Since the early 1990s, California has cut its gun death rate in half. By 2022, California had the 7th lowest gun death rate in the country. If other states’ gun death mortality rates matched California’s, an estimated 140,000 Americans would still be alive today. 

    Nationwide, firearms kill more children and adolescents than any other cause. Compared to the rest of the nation, California has made substantial long-term progress in reducing per capita rates of youth firearm homicide. 

    Preliminary CDC data showed that in 2022, California’s age-adjusted per capita firearm homicide rate for youth under 25 was 45% below the rate recorded for the rest of the U.S. By contrast, the rest of the U.S. experienced a 37% increase in youth gun homicide rates over the same period. The next two most populous states after California – Florida and Texas – experienced substantial increases over this same period, with youth homicide rates rising by 24% in Florida and 49% in Texas. 

    The following measures have been signed into law:

    • AB 960 by Assemblymember Devon Mathis (R-Porterville) – School safety: web-based or app-based school safety programs
    • AB 1252 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – Office of Gun Violence Prevention
    • AB 1858 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – Comprehensive school safety plans: active shooters: armed assailants: drills
    • AB 1974 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Family conciliation courts: evaluator training (signed earlier this year)
    • AB 2565 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – School facilities: interior locks
    • AB 2621 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) – Law enforcement training
    • AB 2629 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Firearms: prohibited persons
    • AB 2642 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Elections: intimidation
    • AB 2739 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Firearms
    • AB 2759 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine)
    • AB 2822 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) – Domestic violence
    • AB 2842 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – Firearms
    • AB 2907 by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles) – Firearms: restrained persons
    • AB 2917 by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles) – Firearms: restraining orders
    • AB 3064 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) –  Firearms
    • AB 3072 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) — Child custody: ex parte orders (signed earlier this year)
    • AB 3083 by Assemblymember Tom Lackey —  Domestic violence: protective orders: background checks
    • SB 53 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Firearms: storage
    • SB 758 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Firearms
    • SB 899 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – Protective orders: firearms
    • SB 902 by Senator Richard D. Roth (D-Riverside) – Firearms: public safety
    • SB 965 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) – Firearms
    • SB 1002 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) –Firearms: prohibited persons
    • SB 1019 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Firearms: destruction

    Recent news

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed two bills to boost access to affordable housing for California’s farmworkers: AB 2240 and AB 3035. Governor Newsom also signed SB 1105 to help protect the health and safety of farmworkers in states of emergency….

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom visited the community of East Orosi to help address its failing sewer system, giving the state more tools to step in, as well as signing clean drinking water bills. Since 2019, nearly 900,000 Californians have gotten…

    News What you need to know: New laws will strengthen consumer protections and help save Californians money. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom signed a package of bills that will strengthen protections for consumers, addressing issues that have put financial strain on…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs new laws to expand farmworker housing and cut red tape

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 24, 2024

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed two bills to boost access to affordable housing for California’s farmworkers: AB 2240 and AB 3035. Governor Newsom also signed SB 1105 to help protect the health and safety of farmworkers in states of emergency.

    FRESNO – Today, Governor Newsom expanded California’s housing efforts for farmworkers, signing two bills: AB 2240 (Arambula) and AB 3035 (Pellerin). These measures improve access to affordable housing for agricultural workers and make it easier to build farmworker housing.

    “Farmworkers are the backbone of California’s nation-leading agricultural industry and play a critical role in ensuring the stability of the state, nation and world’s food supply. Investing in their well-being is investing in California’s success. All families deserve access to safe and stable housing.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Why this matters

    Access to more stable and safe housing for farmworkers allows families to avoid the disruptions caused by seasonal movement, helping children remain enrolled in the same schools and maintain their academic progress. Today’s action builds upon Governor Newsom’s efforts to protect and support farm workers across the state, including signing SB 1105 (Padilla), which allows farmworkers to use accrued paid sick leave during heat, flooding or smoke conditions when there is a local or state emergency.

    What the bills do

    ➡️ Expand housing for farmworkers

    • AB 2240 (Arambula) helps create more stable housing for migrant farmworkers by maximizing the Department of Housing & Community Development’s (HCD) Joe Serna Jr. Farmworker Housing Grant Program (Serna Program), which supports the development of both multifamily and single-family housing restricted to farmworkers. The bill would authorize HCD to prioritize residents currently residing in seasonal Office of Migrant Services (OMS) housing for more permanent and stable housing through the Serna program. 
    • AB 2240 also creates new opportunities to build permanent and stable affordable farmworker housing by identifying and prioritizing the use of state-owned excess land near OMS centers for farmworker housing.
    • AB 2240 requires HCD to assess the feasibility of converting temporary Office of Migrant Services housing into year-round, permanent housing, ensuring a strategic approach to meeting long-term housing needs. 

    ➡️ Remove regulatory barriers

    • AB 3035 (Pellerin) cuts through regulatory red tape by streamlining the approval process for farmworker housing in Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties, speeding up development to meet the urgent demand for more housing.
    • By raising the housing unit cap from 36 to 150 in Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties, AB 3035 will enable larger developments in areas with access to essential services, addressing issues of overcrowding and inadequate living conditions.

    ➡️ Protect the health and safety of workers 

    • SB 1105 (Padilla) allows agricultural employees who work outside to use their accrued paid sick leave to avoid smoke, heat, or flooding conditions created by a local or state emergency.

    Details on the farmworker housing grant program

    • The Joe Serna Jr. Farmworker Housing Grant Program (Serna) is administered by HCD and supports the development of both multifamily and single-family housing restricted to farmworkers.
    • Between the years of 1978 and 2018, approximately $271.5 million was awarded, which funded the 138 Serna multi-family projects in HCD’s existing portfolio. 
    • Over the past 5 years, HCD has awarded more than $300 million in Serna funds for the development of 56 new projects for farmworkers with approximately 3,577 housing units. Additionally, in the 2023 funding round, HCD awarded $110M for 10 new Serna projects that include 618 additional housing units. These 4,195 homes will serve many tens of thousands of Californians during the 55-year affordability period.

    Bills signed today

    • AB 2240 by Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno) – Farm labor centers: migratory agricultural workers.
    • AB 3035 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Clara) – Farmworker housing.
    • SB 1105 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-Chula Vista) – Paid sick leave: agricultural employees: emergencies.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom visited the community of East Orosi to help address its failing sewer system, giving the state more tools to step in, as well as signing clean drinking water bills. Since 2019, nearly 900,000 Californians have gotten…

    News What you need to know: New laws will strengthen consumer protections and help save Californians money. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom signed a package of bills that will strengthen protections for consumers, addressing issues that have put financial strain on…

    News SACRAMENTO – As Tropical Storm Helene is expected to strengthen into a hurricane as it moves toward Florida’s Panhandle, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of California firefighters to assist in staffing a Federal Emergency Management Agency…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs bills to fix failing sewer systems, help connect more people to clean drinking water

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 24, 2024

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom visited the community of East Orosi to help address its failing sewer system, giving the state more tools to step in, as well as signing clean drinking water bills. Since 2019, nearly 900,000 Californians have gotten connected to clean drinking water through state efforts. 

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill to help fix failing sewer systems in communities like East Orosi, giving the state more authority and ability to step in. The new law empowers the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) to intervene in areas where sewer service is inadequate, appointing administrators to provide essential services and promote access to safe and reliable wastewater systems.

    “Every Californian deserves access to basic sanitation services and clean drinking water, regardless of where they live. These new laws will help support these communities that have been neglected for too long, helping restore their basic access to services that many of us take for granted.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    AB 805 by Assemblymember Dr. Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno) mandates a public process to determine whether an administrator is needed and empowers the state to provide technical and financial support. Under the new law, the SWRCB can:

    • Designate failing sewer systems for administrative intervention.
    • Appoint qualified administrators to provide administrative, technical, operational, legal, or managerial services.
    • Offer technical assistance and financial support to improve service quality.
    • Facilitate a coordinated approach where both sewer and drinking water administrators are appointed, maximizing resources and efficiency.

    “I deeply appreciate Governor Newsom signing Assembly Bill 805 and understanding the importance of this legislation to disadvantaged communities exposed to poorly managed sewer systems,” said Assemblymember Arambula. “Everyone should have access to safe and affordable drinking water and sanitation, and the residents of East Orosi know this better than almost anyone in California. I’m grateful to them and the Community Water Center for pushing for this legislation that I hope brings much-needed improvements.”

    The Governor also signed SB 1188 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) to support small water systems by providing them technical resources to prevent failure, as well as AB 2454 by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-Milpitas) that would require rental property owners to participate in state programs for domestic well testing and to determine if remediation is needed to make the water clean.

    “I thank Governor Newsom for signing this critical public health bill to further access to safe drinking water, a human right that over 700,000 Californians lack,” said Senator Laird. “Senate Bill 1188 helps safeguard this fundamental right by empowering the state to proactively identify and assist small water systems struggling with operational capacity that threatens water reliability.”

    “Everyone should have the  human right to safe drinking water,” said Assemblymember Lee. “Even when free domestic well testing programs are available, participation remains far too low. It puts people at risk of exposure to dangerous contaminants in their water, and AB 2454 will help prevent community members from drinking toxic water. We have to ensure that free domestic well testing programs are reaching the people who need them most.” 

    Why communities like East Orosi need this support

    The need for this legislation has been underscored by alarming incidents in communities like East Orosi, where residents have been plagued by chronic sewage overflows. The residents of East Orosi have dealt with this crisis for long enough​.

    AB 805 directly responds to these crises by allowing the SWRCB to appoint administrators to step in and manage sewer services, bringing in the expertise and accountability necessary to protect public health. The bill also aligns with California’s broader efforts to ensure that all residents, particularly in underserved rural areas, have access to clean, safe, and affordable water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation.

    California’s fixing failing water systems, connecting people to clean drinking water 

    California’s landmark Safe and Affordable Funding for Equity and Resilience (SAFER) drinking water program has made historic progress connecting people to clean, safe drinking water — distributing more than $1 billion in grants to disadvantaged communities. Since 2019, nearly 900,000 more Californians now have access to clean drinking water through state efforts.

    This month, California marked 10 years since the enactment of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), a landmark law that is driving reductions in the overuse of groundwater to protect drinking water supplies for millions of Californians and make communities, agriculture and ecosystems more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

    California distributed billions of dollars in tax refunds, utility and rent relief, small business grants and tax credits, and more through the Water and Wastewater Arrearages Payment Program, which announced that it distributed $880 million to clear water and wastewater bills of over 1.3 million households and businesses, or 4 million people.

    California distributed $880 million to water systems and communities during the past fiscal year for projects that will benefit around 12 million Californians. 395 projects across the state have received funding to capture and recycle more water, recharge and protect groundwater, improve stormwater management, expand access to safe drinking water and improve sanitation.

    Recent news

    News What you need to know: New laws will strengthen consumer protections and help save Californians money. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom signed a package of bills that will strengthen protections for consumers, addressing issues that have put financial strain on…

    News SACRAMENTO – As Tropical Storm Helene is expected to strengthen into a hurricane as it moves toward Florida’s Panhandle, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of California firefighters to assist in staffing a Federal Emergency Management Agency…

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed four bills today to help law enforcement crack down on dangerous sideshows and street takeovers. These new laws will hold participants and organizers accountable by providing law enforcement with the tools to seize…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – HAWAI‘I WILDFIRE LEADER RECOGNIZED NATIONALLY, Sept. 24, 2024

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – HAWAI‘I WILDFIRE LEADER RECOGNIZED NATIONALLY, Sept. 24, 2024

    Posted on Sep 24, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES 

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D. 
    GOVERNOR 

     

    DAWN CHANG 
    CHAIRPERSON 

     

    NEWS RELEASE 

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

    Sept. 24, 2024

     

    CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HAWAI‘I WILDFIRE MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION

     

    (HILO, HAWAI‘I) – Elizabeth Pickett, the long-time co-executive director of the Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization (HWMO) was honored today at a ceremony in New York City, as one of the 2024 Grist 50. Grist bills itself as the only newsroom focused on finding solutions at the intersection of climate and justice.

    The ninth annual Grist 50 list honors leaders who are tackling the most pressing climate problems of today in innovative and exciting ways. The organization says this year’s list includes people who “found a unique way to apply their strengths, creativity, and time to tackle the biggest problem our planet faces. We call them Fixers: dynamic doers who aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo and dive headlong into building and championing better alternatives. The Grist 50 is both a look at what it takes to make change happen and a testament to the strength, diversity, and creativity of people doing just that.”

    In its description of Pickett’s award, Grist noted, “After the town of Lahaina went up in flames, killing 102 people in August last year, survivors and onlookers were left with enormous grief – and endless questions. How could such a horrific event have happened? What could be done to prevent another?”

    Hawai‘i Governor Josh Green M.D. commented, “The Hawai‘i Wildfire Management Organization plays a vital role in sharing wildfire information, coordinating efforts among agencies, and helping communities become better prepared and resilient. In the wake of last year’s devastating Maui wildfires, HWMO stepped up in incredible ways, and this recognition of Elizabeth Pickett reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire organization.”

    HWMO Board Chair Dan Dennison added, “On behalf of the entire board, we can’t think of anyone more deserving of this honor than Elizabeth. The Maui fires put enormous focus on our nonprofit as the clearinghouse for Hawaiʻi wildfire information and programs and has shown HWMO to be instrumental in responding to questions about wildfire science, resiliency, and action.”

    For answers, many turned to the HWMO, where Elizabeth Pickett had spent 16 years trying in vain to convince people to take wildfire risks seriously. She first became interested in wildfires after learning about their effects on coral reef sedimentation and went on to pursue a master’s degree in forestry research.”

    Since the Maui fires, Pickett and HWMO Co-executive Director Nani Barretto have fielded hundreds of citizen and media inquiries from local, national, and international news organizations. Pickett said, “We laid that groundwork strategically place-by-place, layer-by-layer over 20 years. We were able to meet the moment.” She says she hopes HWMO’s work will ensure the islands will be prepared for future wildfires, even as climate change increases their threat.

    Dave Smith, the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) Administrator said, “We are tremendously fortunate to have HWMO as the coordinating organization for so much of what is available in Hawaiʻi to address wildfire.”

    The number of HWMO positions has grown a lot over the past year, with additional staff now on all the major Hawaiian Islands. While the constant demand for wildfire information from many corners has continued unabated, the HWMO co-executive directors have managed to keep focused on the organization’s core strategy of being a trusted partner and a go-to place for wildfire-related information, expert advice and community action.

    Pickett said, “The Grist award is for our entire organization. By the time of the Lahaina fires, I’d become somewhat disillusioned with the state’s approach to and lack of investment in wildfire preparedness and risk reduction. Then the fire happened and suddenly the questions came pouring in.

    Hawai‘i teachers needed curricula to teach their students about wildfires. Land managers wanted to know what fire breaks to install. The Dept. of Health, Dept. of Hawaiian Homelands, the DLNR Division of State Parks, Dept. of Transportation and county planning offices; along with communities across the state all reached out for technical support and partnership toward the role they could play in getting more prepared for wildfire. There was interest and commitment I never imagined possible.”

    HWMO, in partnership with DLNR, leads the Firewise Communities program for neighborhood wildfire preparedness. Together with other firefighting organizations, they are currently in the ninth year of the Wildfire & Drought LOOKOUT! news media and public awareness campaign which shares fire prevention, water conservation and resiliency messages across social media and through the general news media.

    # # #

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     

    HD video – Wildfire & Drought LOOKOUT! news conference, Maui (June 4, 2024):

    [embedded content]

    Photographs – Elizabeth Pickett speaking at news conference (June 4, 2024):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/5anop2w0io0kfgqr9ngam/AArwLpU2vBYgXWoSvgwn5cs?rlkey=upceq0blfi1zzxnrook37j38z&st=b04552je&dl=0

     

     

    Media Contact: 

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    808-587-0396 

    [email protected] 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Frank Elderson: Energy performance data – a must-have for managing climate-related credit risk

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Good morning and a very warm welcome to all of you. It is a pleasure to see so many of you – bank representatives, journalists and supervisors – here in Frankfurt to discuss good practices for collecting and assessing climate-related data for the real estate sector.

    We have come a long way since 2019 when we first started to talk about climate-related and environmental risk management with you – the banks we supervise. Thanks to the tireless work of many dedicated climate risk experts in banks across Europe, jointly we have built up considerable expertise and made encouraging progress.

    Real estate lending represents a significant share of supervised banks’ banking books. The real estate sector is also a concrete example of how physical and transition risks affect traditional prudential risk categories, in this case credit risk. And just as we do for any other material risk, we expect banks to identify, measure and – most importantly – manage these risks.

    Good data are crucial for sound risk management

    In short, to manage your risks you need to know them. And to know your risks you need to have good data. The same holds true when integrating climate-related risk drivers into credit risk management.

    To manage credit risk in the real estate sector, we need data on buildings’ energy efficiency. This is crucial for collateral valuations or determining borrowers’ ability to pay back their loan, for example.

    With this in mind, back in 2021 ECB Banking Supervision started looking at energy performance data for the commercial and residential real estate sectors by conducting targeted reviews for a sample of banks that were most exposed to these sectors. Supervisors collected data from these banks and engaged with them on their practices. As expectations were not yet set on this specific topic, we let banks explain how they obtained energy performance data. We looked at new lending as well as existing loan stocks.

    Overall, our targeted review showed that more progress had been made for new lending, for which most data were based on real data from energy performance certificates. As a concrete outcome of our targeted review, we asked all banks in the sample to collect real energy performance data at loan origination. Our supervisory recommendation was well received by banks that were not yet doing it, showing banks’ willingness to integrate energy performance data into their credit risk management policies. This is good news.

    However, as supervisors, we are also concerned about the existing stock of loans. Most of the data on this are based on proxies, which makes it difficult for both banks and supervisors to design and implement proper risk management measures. Obtaining real data is admittedly challenging, yet many of the banks represented here today have made notable strides. You have found a way to collect energy performance data and use them effectively. And we invite all banks that have not yet advanced on collecting such data to learn from the good practices of those banks that have made critical leaps forward.

    Legislative changes will improve the availability of energy performance data

    Integrating climate-related data is also vitally important in view of impending legislative changes. The revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive1, which includes common requirements for setting up national databases on the energy performance of buildings, is an important development that should help narrow the data gap. In the spirit of the Directive, further work is needed to ensure adequate data management and increase the reliability and consistency of climate-related real estate data across the European Union. Establishing a comprehensive European database of all buildings in the EU will take time. So banks cannot just sit back and wait. As supervisors we expect banks to manage all material risks. And this requirement is not conditional on the attainability of harmonised data.

    We therefore strongly encourage all efforts to improve data availability and welcome the successful strategies that some banks have implemented to address data gaps.

    Today’s agenda will focus on the collection of energy performance data for the commercial and residential real estate sectors. But this will not be the only topic. Properties in areas prone to hazard events such as floods, rising sea levels or wildfires are increasingly vulnerable and could see a decrease in their collateral value. Last week’s devastating floods in Austria, Czechia, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania and Slovakia were a stark reminder of that. Therefore, later in today’s programme we will discuss the challenges and potential solutions for monitoring physical risk. In the coming weeks, the ECB will publish an analytical paper focusing on whether residential mortgage rates in high climate risk areas are influenced by this risk. The paper finds evidence that climate-related risk is already priced into mortgages. In other words, we see that an average bank took climate-related risks into account as loans secured by real estate in high climate risk areas were more expensive than loans with the same characteristics but in safer regions. However, the effect we find is economically small, so it seems that the climate-related risk is still underpriced by the average bank.

    Let me conclude.

    Good, reliable data are a cornerstone of sound risk management. This also holds true for managing the risks stemming from climate change. Thanks to the ongoing dialogue between supervisors and banks, some major stumbling blocks have already been overcome. The good practices observed for collecting real data on energy performance show that, while the task is challenging, it is far from impossible. Sharing your practices with peers will help more banks to improve the availability of energy performance data. So we are all looking forward to hearing about your experiences and learning from what worked well.

    The ongoing climate and nature crises will inevitably render our economy more susceptible to shocks. From a risk-based perspective, let me reassure you that ECB Banking Supervision will continue to play our part in spurring on banks to prepare for these risks. To succeed in our common goal of making banks resilient to climate and nature-related risks, it is vital that we keep up this dialogue with you – the industry – and encourage the exchange of good practices in the years to come.

    I would like to thank you for coming to Frankfurt today to share your experiences.


    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 24.09.2024 Breslavia “Reconstruction plus” – investments for the safety of all of us

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    El primer ministro Donald Tusk took part in a meeting of the crisis staff in Wrocław. The Prime Minister announced investments in flood protection infrastructure under the “Reconstruction plus” program, which will help reduce the scale of possible damage in the future. The government will also strengthen the Territorial Defense Forces, which have proven to be of great support in recent days. Crisis staff meeting in WrocławEl Primer Minister Donald Tusk returned to Lower Silesia after the meeting of the Council of Ministers to take part in the crisis staff meeting in Wrocław. The head of government asked for information important for citizens to be provided in the most transparent way possible. “I appreciate the professional information very much, of course, but today we have the opportunity to explain in an understandable way whether and what may threaten people in the event of a flood wave in those towns where “it is working at the moment,” the Prime Minister said to the representatives of the services present at the meeting. The Head of Government thanked all residents and services for the effort they put into strengthening security and rebuilding the areas affected by the flood. “Reconstruction plus” – ready for bold investments Program ” “Reconstruction plus” means new and better infrastructure that will help protect us against further natural disasters. “Nature will not change, or rather it will change for the worse. We will not be able to prevent such phenomena from occurring, but we must be better prepared for it. And here we have a very serious job to do,” the Prime Minister announced. The state and local governments will have to, among others: quickly develop necessary solutions for the future through public consultations. The result of this work will be investments that may seem burdensome to some – such as the construction of further reservoirs – but it is about our common safety. “We know well what would happen without the reservoir in Racibórz,” noted the Prime Minister. The government will take responsibility for making the decision. regarding needed investments. However, the Prime Minister asked local government officials for support in dialogue with residents. “We want you to participate very actively in the conversation and in convincing people. Para bromear also affects the interests of those who live there today and work there, and who may be flooded again in a year, in five, in seven years. We will have to make optimal decisions together,” explained the Prime Minister. The government will provide financing for investments in infrastructure. “Wisdom and political responsibility always require us to use such crises and disasters to intensively repair the reality around us,” concluded Donald Tusk. Conversations with residents should be honest so that everyone understands why certain actions are necessary. The Territorial Defense Forces passed the test. The Council of Ministers today adopted – in addition to the special act helping flood victims – a draft law supporting entrepreneurs who employ soldiers of the Territorial Defense Forces and Active Reserve. “The state appreciates those employers who, as part of corporate social responsibility, employ soldiers of the Territorial Defense Forces,” emphasized Deputy Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. The head of the Ministry of Defense presented the main solutions introduced by these regulations, including tax relief for companies employing Territorial Defense Forces soldiers. “Para bromear en este momento, in which it must be said very clearly – the Territorial Defense Forces have proven themselves in a critical situation in an unequivocally positive way” – concluded Donald Tusk. The state will strive to develop the Territorial Defense Forces and increase their effectiveness. Plan for the coming days Donald Tusk asked local government officials for precise information regarding their needs not only in the fight against the element, but also with its effects, e.g. in terms of waste disposal and collection. . But if you need other types of help – human, organizational, technical – I would ask for as detailed information as possible. We will bend over backwards to help you, not only by financing these very demanding projects,” declared the head of government. Water levels are falling in many places, but the services are still carefully monitoring the embankments and flood protection infrastructure. According to forecasts, today at midnight, for the first time in many days, the water in Wrocław will be below the alarm level. “It is too early to announce the end of the flood threat in Wrocław. The pressure on the embankments is, of course, present, but it is certainly a turning point – at least here in Lower Silesia” – Donald Tusk commented on the forecasts. The next meeting of the crisis staff in the capital of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship will be held on Tuesday at 8:00. Afterwards, the Prime Minister will return to Warsaw, where the government will submit information to the Sejm regarding actions taken during the flood. On Saturday, the Council of Ministers will again consider the state budget for next year. “I am talking about the necessary expenses related to repairing the effects of the flood. We will also want to make the first presentation of losses and, above all, how to overcome this collapse in many places and what projects we are preparing,” announced the head of government. In the following days, visits to the Lubuskie and West Pomeranian Voivodeships, where the flood wave is passing, will be possible.

    MILES AXIS

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Good Things Are in the Air in Oregon

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    Tuesday, September 24, 2024
    Two recent events in Oregon point to things looking up in the state. Last week I felt like I was walking on air when I took part in the tip-off of the WNBA awarding an expansion franchise to Portland. Last month, I was jazzed to see small, locally produced UAV businesses accelerate up in Pendleton. 
    Back in February 2023, a team of Oregonians passionate about women’s sports, gathered at my friend Jenny Nguyen’s “The Sports Bra” in Portland with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. 
    At that roundtable with women athletes, women’s sports executives and coaches from all over the state, Oregon put on a world-class show of support for women’s sports.
    The question that night was not “whether” Portland would get a WNBA team, but “when.” We know now that our team will take the court in 2026 and I’m already hearing reports of Oregonians planning in Portland, huddling in Hermiston, meeting in McMinnville and brainstorming in Beaverton to discuss what the team’s name should be.    
    The fact that the WNBA chose Portland for its next team is a ‘nothing-but-net’ kind of endorsement and  is definitely one for the W column. Not only will the team generate positive economic impact for local  restaurants, hotels and shops, it will also create memorable experiences for families to build on their hoops dreams in Portland.   
    Chalking up another W for Oregon, last month I was delighted to see the good work of the UAS Accelerator in Pendleton and how it is helping small, local businesses take flight by producing and refining UAVs right here in Oregon.  
    It’s clear that UAVs can be literal lifesavers in emergencies like wildfires where the terrain can be treacherous and hard to reach. UAVs also help the environment by using precise spraying methods, which reduce the unintentional spread and needless overuse of herbicides and fertilizers, as well as conserving energy and water.  And potentially the application with the most impact is the security that comes with domestically-produced technology—the kind of technology we depend on in emergencies must be resistant to foreign interference.   
    That’s a W for crucial technology and another for generating meaningful jobs for Oregonians. 
    The potential to create good-paying jobs is always on my radar, and I was particularly struck with Phenix Solutions Inc. out of McMinnville. Its Ultra 2XL UAV model’s ability to haul heavy loads of water or equipment to aid with emergencies in difficult terrain has already earned it contracts with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force, with potential for much more.
    Phenix Solutions is not only innovating with fire-fighting technology the West Coast so dearly needs in an escalating climate crisis, it’s also creating job opportunities for Oregonians, making it possible for them to buy homes and raise families outside of Portland. Phenix Solutions currently employs 20 people with an average salary of $123,000; it predicts that number of employees will increase by 50% in 2025.
    These high-flying successes for Oregon could not have been achieved alone, but rather could only be reached by Oregonians lifting each other up and engaging in the Oregon Way.
    Whether it’s working together to create meaningful experiences for Oregonians, creating domestic solutions to common challenges, or enhancing our local economy, when Oregonians work together we can reach stratospheric heights.  

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Kremlin could never have envisaged how war in Ukraine is developing: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK military advisor, Nicholas Aucott, says the military situation is markedly different to what many expected two and a half years ago and this is a testament to the bravery and fortitude of the Ukrainian people.

    Thank you, Mr Chair. The present situation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine is one that the Kremlin could hardly have envisaged when it embarked on its devasting war of aggression.

    Russia boasted that Ukraine would be defeated in a three-day lightning war, yet today marks two years and 219 days of this conflict. Ukraine now controls Russian territory in the Kursk Oblast. This is the first time that Russian territory has been held since the Second World War. We should be clear: this is a direct consequence of Russia’s illegal invasion and entirely consistent with Ukraine’s right to self-defence. To try and tackle this situation of its own making, Russia has been launching 50% of its glide bombs at its own territory, and on the neighbouring Sumy region of Ukraine.

    Since we met last week, on the evening of 17-18 September Ukraine conducted a successful attack on the Toropets strategic ammunition depot. Renovated in 2018, this was one of Russia’s largest strategic ammunition depots supporting Russia’s operation in Ukraine and housing ammunition of varying calibres, including ammunition procured from the DPRK.

    The resulting explosion recorded 2.7 on the Richter scale, equivalent to a mild earthquake. It forced Russia to declare a state of emergency, with the resulting fires 6 km wide and detectable from space. This was followed on 21 September by additional successful strikes on depots again in Toropets, and in Tikhoretsk. These Ukrainian strikes mark significant strategic setbacks for the Kremlin. The level of losses accounts for months of Russian ammunition expenditure rates.

    Moreover, Russia continues its attacks on Ukrainian civilian and energy infrastructure in an attempt to try and break the will of the Ukrainian people. Strikes in Ukraine’s central region of Poltava cut power to 20 settlements, whilst in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, an attack on Monday killed at least one person and injured seven, amongst them a 13 year old girl and a 15 year old boy.

    The military situation is markedly different to what many expected two and a half years ago and this is a testament to the bravery and fortitude of the Ukrainian people. But it is also critical that Ukraine continues to receive the support of allies and partners, diplomatically and militarily. The Kremlin would like to portray such support as a western conspiracy. But the reality is that the Russian state isolated itself from the moment it instigated an unprovoked, premeditated and barbaric attack against a sovereign democratic state. Furthermore, Russia has contravened international law and misled this Forum completely.

    The United Kingdom’s support to Ukraine is ironclad. To date the UK’s total military, economic and humanitarian support for Ukraine amounts to £12.8 billion, which includes £7.8 billion in military support. £3 billion in military aid has been pledged to Ukraine in 2024-25, a £700 million increase on 2023-24.

    The gap between Russia’s expectation of a three-day operation and the 943-day reality continues to grow. The Russian state has a clear path to prevent this metric from diverging further. It must cease hostilities and withdraw from Ukraine’s internationally recognised borders.  The United Kingdom, alongside its partners, will continue in its enduring support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building climate resilience

    Source: Scottish Government

    Plan to help communities understand how climate change impacts their lives.  

    Communities and businesses across Scotland will be given support and tools to help tackle the unavoidable impacts of climate change as part of the Scottish Government’s new National Adaptation Plan.

    The Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029 (SNAP3) sets out a comprehensive suite of more than 200 actions and proposals for managing the current and future impacts of climate change in Scotland.

    Climate change means Scotland will experience more extreme weather. Flooding, water scarcity and hot weather can damage our environment, disrupt public transport and affect our supply of foods, vital goods and services. This means that households, communities, businesses and organisations across Scotland are having to consider the impacts of climate change more than ever. 

    It includes how sectors including agriculture, transport and health as well as businesses and communities will prepare for more extreme weather events, such as flooding, water scarcity and extreme periods of heat. These include:

    • £5.5 million of funding this year to complete a national network of Community Climate Action Hubs to drive locally-led climate action across Scotland
    • investing £400million investment to Scotland’s railway infrastructure to reduce weather-related disruption
    • facilitating peer-to-peer support to local governments and public services to prepare for the impacts of climate change for local populations
    • providing advice and support to businesses on how they can future proof their workplaces through practical check-lists on how to prepare for the impacts of climate change
    • ensuring the NHS Scotland estate is prepared and equipped to deal with extreme heat and flooding

    Launching the plan at a visit to the Restoring the River Leven project, First Minister John Swinney said: 

    “While we must ensure Scotland continues to play its part in addressing the causes of climate change, we must also be ready to deal with the impacts that are already locked in giving us wetter winters, drier summers and more weather-related disruption.

    “Our new Adaptation Plan is our most comprehensive response to protecting people’s lives and livelihoods against the risks of climate change – with over 200 actions to build climate resilience in our communities, businesses, public services and natural environment. 

    “I am proud to lead a Scotland that is driving forward the race to net zero, whilst ensuring that our country is ready for the impacts of climate change that we are already experiencing. This can be demonstrated through the Leven River Restoration Project, which has adapted the local landscape to help reduce the amount of flooding in the area, whilst restoring and encouraging wildlife and nature to flourish. It is a fantastic example of how collaborative working can use nature to adapt to the challenges we face at the same time as delivering benefit for the local community.” 

    Nicole Paterson, Chief Executive of the Scottish Environment protection Agency (SEPA), said:

    “Scotland’s natural environment is globally renowned and our water environment, as we can see in Leven today, is central to our environmental, economic and social success. Scotland’s water quality is at its highest level ever, with more than 87% of our water environment achieving good or high classification for water quality, with an ambition to go further.

    “Our climate is already changing and as Scotland’s environment agency, we’re at the forefront of working with partners to respond and adapt. The Water Environment Fund, including The Leven Project, is a very visible story for change and a great example of how public, private and community sector partners can successfully collaborate to improve water environments, boost flood resilience and deliver community benefits.

    “In Scotland’s Climate Week, it’s fitting that we hear directly from young people and community partner’s who’ve worked so hard locally and who’s future depends on the work that together we do today.”

    Fife Council Leader Councillor David Ross said:

    “Fife Council welcomes the Scottish Government’s new Climate Change Adaptation Plan, which marks an important step forward in the collective fight against climate change.

    “Much has changed since Fife Council declared a Climate Emergency in 2019 and, although we have made significant progress on a number of fronts, we are committed to helping our communities prepare for, and respond to, the effects of climate change.

    “The First Minister’s visit to the Restoring the River Leven project highlights the remarkable progress that can be achieved through strong partnership working, in this instance between Fife Council, SEPA, Fife Coast and Countryside Trust and local communities.

    “This close collaboration has also led to – and will lead to – additional benefits through the Levenmouth Connectivity Project, the Active Travel Network and River Park Routes as well as The River Park Project that sit alongside the restoration project as part of the wider Leven Programme.

    “Fife Council remains fully committed to leading the way in tackling climate change and we are proud to be part of initiatives that not only restore our natural environment but also build resilience for the future.”

    Jeremy Harris, CEO at Fife Coast and Countryside Trust, said: 

    “This project to restore the River Leven is a working example of different organisations coming together to deliver something that directly contributes to the outcomes laid out in the new Scottish National Adaptation Plan. The carefully considered interventions already under way will return the river to its more natural flowing state ensuring that nature connects through the Leven catchment and delivers direct benefits to the local communities.

    “Improved infrastructure with the river at its centre will serve the surrounding communities and enrich the lives of those who make use of it. At Fife Coast and Countryside Trust our mission is to connect environment and people and this river restoration project, running through the heart of Levenmouth, is a wonderful example of how to do just that. I look forward to seeing the natural world and local communities flourish thanks to this work for years to come.”

    Background  

    Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029 – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flooding impacts from heavy rainfall from Monday 23 September

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Heavy rain and thunderstorms from Monday 23 September have led to flooding in parts of England.

    Heavy rain and thunderstorms from Monday 23 September have led to flooding in parts of England. These impacts included a combination of surface water flooding and some river flooding. Around 200 properties were flooded across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Kent and the Home Counties.

    Environment Agency staff remain out on the ground, clearing blockages and supporting local authorities in their response work.

    With unsettled conditions expected during the coming few days, further flooding is possible but not expected on Thursday and Friday, so we continue to urge people to keep an eye on the weather, check their flood risk, and take care planning their journeys.

    Kate Marks, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

    Following this week’s heavy rain and thunderstorms, flood warnings and alerts remain in place across many parts of the country. The risk of further significant surface water flooding is also possible but not expected in parts of the country on Thursday and Friday.

    Environment Agency teams continue to be out on the ground, supporting local authorities in responding to surface water flooding. We urge people to plan their journeys carefully, follow the advice of local emergency services on the roads and not to drive through flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.

    People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation as well as following @EnvAgency on X, formerly Twitter, for the latest flood updates.

    The Environment Agency recognises the threat from surface water flooding and is taking action to improve the country’s resilience – for instance supporting local flood authorities to enhance local surface water flood risk mapping. See our blog on surface water flooding for more information.

    Updates to this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by Antonio Tajani, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy in his capacity as Chair of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting at the High-Level Week of the UN General Assembly (23 September 2024)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    1. Introduction

    In today’s meeting in New York, in the wake of the Summit of the Future, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and the High Representative of the European Union reiterated their commitment to upholding the rule of law, humanitarian principles and international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, and to protecting human rights and dignity for all individuals.

    They re-emphasized their determination to foster collective action in order to preserve peace and stability to address global challenges, such as the climate crisis and to advance the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    In doing so, the G7 members renewed their commitment to the promotion of free societies and democratic principles, where all persons can freely exercise their rights and freedoms.

    2. Summit for the Future

    In the spirit of the renewed determination to strengthen the multilateral system based on the UN Charter’s principles, as reflected in the Pact for the Future adopted at the Summit of the Future by world Leaders, the G7 members committed to continue working with countries and all relevant stakeholders within the UN system through dialogue, mutual understanding and respect in the pursuit of common solutions, with the aim of upholding and reforming the multilateral system so that it better reflects today’s world and is fit to respond to the complex global challenges of the future. They reaffirmed their commitment to work with all UN member states to strengthen the roles of the UNSG as well as the UNGA. They also recommitted to the reform of the UNSC.

    3. Steadfast Support to Ukraine

    The G7 members reaffirmed their unwavering support to Ukraine as it defends its freedom, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, against Russia’s brutal and unjustifiable war of aggression. The G7 members strongly condemned Russia’s blatant breach of international law, including the UN Charter, and of the basic principles that underpin the international order. They strongly condemned the serious violations of international humanitarian law perpetrated by Russia’s forces in Ukraine, which have caused a devastating impact on the civilian population. Violence against civilians, including women, children, and prisoners of war is unacceptable.

    They expressed their outrage at Russia’s repeated attacks against critical infrastructure and they condemned in the strongest possible terms any targeting of civilian buildings and even hospitals. Ensuring the protection and resilience of Ukraine’s energy grid and its power generation capacity remains a fundamental and urgent priority as winter approaches. They welcomed the international conference on energy security held on August 22. .as well as the ongoing coordination of the G7 energy group. They reiterated their commitment to help Ukraine meet its urgent short-term financing needs, as well as support its long-term recovery and reconstruction priorities.

    Russia must end its war of aggression and pay for the damage it has caused to Ukraine. The G7 members reiterated their commitment to explore and use all possible lawful avenues by which Russia is made to meet those obligations.

    The launch of the Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans for Ukraine, as mandated by G7 leaders, will make available approximately USD 50 billion in additional funding to Ukraine that will be serviced and repaid by future flows of extraordinary revenues stemming from the immobilization of Russian sovereign assets held in the European Union and other relevant jurisdictions.

    The G7 Foreign Ministers and the High Representative are working, together with Finance Ministers, to operationalize the G7 Leaders’ commitment by the end of the year. They will maintain solidarity in this commitment to providing this support to Ukraine. The G7 members confirmed that, consistent with all applicable laws and their respective legal systems, Russia’s sovereign assets in their jurisdictions will remain immobilized until Russia ends its aggression and pays for the damage it has caused to Ukraine.

    They also committed to strengthening the Ukraine Donor Platform to help coordinate the disbursal of funds and ensure they align with Ukraine’s highest priority needs at a pace it can effectively absorb. This will play a key role in advancing Ukraine’s reforms in line with its European path and in contributing to a successful Ukraine Recovery Conference to be held in Italy in 2025.

    Any use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the context of its war of aggression against Ukraine would be inadmissible. They therefore condemned in the strongest possible terms Russia’s irresponsible and threatening nuclear rhetoric, as well as its posture of strategic intimidation. They also expressed their deepest concern about the reported use of chemical weapons as well as riot control agents as a method of warfare by Russia in Ukraine.

    The G7 members remained committed to holding those responsible accountable for atrocities in Ukraine, in line with international law. They also condemned the seizures of foreign companies and called on Russia to reverse these measures and seek acceptable solutions with the companies targeted by them.

    They condemned Russia’s seizure and continued control and militarization of Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which poses severe risks for nuclear safety and security, potentially affecting the entire international community. They reiterated their support to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s efforts directed at mitigating such risks.

    They underlined once again their support for Ukraine’s right of self-defense and reiterated their commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security, recalling the launch of the Ukraine Compact in Washington on 11 July 2024. They re-affirmed the intention to increasing industrial production and delivery capabilities to assist Ukraine’s self-defense. They highlighted their support to Ukraine in its efforts to modernize its armed forces and strengthen its own defense industry. They expressed their resolve to bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities to save lives and protect critical infrastructure.

    They remained committed to raising the costs of Russia’s war of aggression by building on the comprehensive package of sanctions and economic measures already in place. Though existing measures have had a significant impact on Russia’s war machine and ability to fund its invasion, its military is still posing a threat not just to Ukraine but also to international security.

    The G7 members expressed the intention to continue taking appropriate measures, consistent with their legal systems, against actors in China and in third countries that materially support Russia’s war machine, including financial institutions, and other entities that facilitate Russia’s acquisition of items for its defense industrial base.

    They expressed their intention to continue to apply significant pressure on Russian revenues from energy and other commodities. This will include improving the efficacy of the oil price cap policy by taking further steps to tighten compliance and enforcement, including against Russia’s shadow fleet, while working to maintain market stability.

    They especially emphasized the urgency to support Ukraine’s energy security, including by coordinating international assistance through the G7+Ukraine Energy Coordination Group. They underscored the importance to continue working with the Ukrainian authorities and International Financial Institutions through the Ukraine Donor Platform, and by mobilizing private investments and fostering participation of civil society.

    They highlighted the reality of millions of internally displaced Ukrainians and the importance of an inclusive rights-based, gender-responsive recovery, including the reintegration of veterans and civilians with disabilities, and to address the needs of women, children as well as other population groups who have been disproportionately affected by Russia’s war of aggression. They reiterated their condemnation of Russia’s unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children and welcomed coordinated efforts to secure their safe return. They called on Russia to release all persons it has unjustly detained and safely return all civilians it has illegally transferred or deported, starting with children. They welcomed the Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of Ukraine’s 10 point peace formula that will be hosted by Canada on October 30-31.

    They reiterated the need to support Ukraine’s agriculture sector, which is critical for global food supply, particularly for the most vulnerable nations, and called for unimpeded exports of grain, foodstuffs, fertilizers and inputs from Ukraine.

    They acknowledged the importance to involve the private sector in the sustainable economic recovery of Ukraine. They welcomed and underscored the significance of Ukraine itself continuing to implement domestic reform efforts, especially in the fields of anti-corruption, justice system reform, decentralization, and promotion of the rule of law. These endeavors are in line with the Euro-Atlantic path Ukraine has embraced. The G7 members were unanimous on the need to continue to support efforts of the Ukrainian government and people in these endeavors.

    They resolutely condemned Russia’s holding of illegitimate ‘elections’ in the occupied Ukrainian Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. Russia’s actions once again demonstrate its blatant disregard for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence, and the UN Charter. They called on all members of the international community to refrain from recognizing Russia’s illegitimate actions.

    They welcomed the Summit on Peace in Ukraine that took place in Switzerland on June 15-16 and its focus on the key priorities needed to achieve a framework for peace based on international law, including the UN Charter and its principles, and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They remained committed to follow up on the Conference through constructive engagement with all international partners to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

    The G7 members acknowledged that Russia continues to expand its campaigns of foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). They condemned Russia’s use of FIMI to support its war of aggression against Ukraine. They reiterated their determination to bolster the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism by developing a collective response framework to counter foreign threats to democracies.

    4. Situation in the Middle East

    The G7 members reiterated their condemnation of Hamas’ horrendous attacks on October 7, 2023. 101 hostages are still in the hands of Hamas. They noted with deep concern the trend of escalatory violence in the Middle East and its repercussions on regional stability and on the lives of civilians shattered by this conflict, from the Gaza Strip to the Israeli-Lebanese Blue Line. Actions and counter-reactions risk magnifying this dangerous spiral of violence and dragging the entire Middle East into a broader regional conflict with unimaginable consequences. They called for a stop to the current destructive cycle, while emphasizing that no country stands to gain from a further escalation in the Middle East.

    They expressed their deep concern about the situation along the Blue Line. They recognized the essential stabilizing role played by the Lebanese Armed Forces and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon in mitigating that risk. They demanded the full implementation of UNSCR 1701 (2006) and urged that all relevant actors implement immediate measures towards de-escalation.

    The G7 members reaffirmed their strong support for the ongoing mediation efforts undertaken by the United States, Egypt and Qatar to reach a resolution between the parties to the conflict in Gaza. They reiterated their full commitment for the implementation of the UNSC Resolution 2735 (2024) and the comprehensive deal outlined by President Biden in May that would lead to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza, and an enduring end to the crisis, to secure a pathway to a two-state solution with a safe Israel alongside a sovereign Palestinian state. They urged the parties to the conflict to unequivocally accept the ceasefire proposal, stressing the need for countries in a position to directly influence the parties to cooperate in strengthening mediation efforts. They called for the full implementation of the terms of the ceasefire proposal without delay and without conditions.

    They called on all parties to fully comply with international law, including international humanitarian law. They expressed their deep alarm for the heavy toll this conflict has taken on civilians, deploring all losses of civilian lives equally and noting with great concern that, after nearly a year of hostilities and regional instability, it is mostly civilians, including women and children, who are paying the highest price. Protection of civilians must be an absolute priority for all parties at all times.

    The G7 members expressed concern at the unprecedented level of food insecurity affecting most of the population in the Gaza Strip. Securing full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access in all its forms and through all relevant crossing points remains an absolute priority. They urged all parties to allow the unimpeded delivery of aid and ensure protection of humanitarian workers by properly implementing de-confliction measures. They recognized the crucial role played by UN agencies and other humanitarian actors in delivering assistance especially health care for the most vulnerable persons, including the polio vaccination campaign. They expressed their support for UNRWA to effectively uphold its mandate, emphasizing the vital role that the UN Agency plays.

    The G7 members reaffirmed their unwavering commitment, through reinvigorated efforts in the Middle East Peace Process, to the vision of a two-state solution where two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, live side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders, consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions, and in this regard stress the importance of unifying the Gaza strip with the West Bank under Palestinian Authority. We note that mutual recognition, to include the recognition of a Palestinian state, at the appropriate time, would be a crucial component of that political process. They expressed their concern about the risk of weakening the Palestinian Authority and underlined the importance of maintaining economic stability in the West Bank. They welcomed the EU’s 400 million Euro emergency package for the Palestinian Authority. All parties must refrain from unilateral actions and from divisive statements that may undermine the prospect of a two-state solution, including the Israeli expansion of settlements and the “legalization” of settlement outposts. They condemned the rise in extremist settler violence committed against Palestinians, which undermines security and stability in the West Bank and threatens prospects for a lasting peace. They expressed their deep concern regarding the deteriorating security situation in the West Bank.

    They reiterated their commitment to working together – and with other international partners – to closely coordinate and institutionalize their support for civil society peacebuilding efforts, ensuring that they are part of a larger strategy to build the foundation necessary for a negotiated and lasting Israeli-Palestinian peace. The G7 members called on Iran to contribute to de-escalation of tensions in the region. They demanded that Iran cease its destabilizing actions in the Middle East. They underlined that they stand ready to adopt further sanctions or take other measures in response to further destabilizing initiatives.

    They reiterated their determination that Iran must never develop or acquire a nuclear weapon and that the G7 will continue working together, and with other international partners, to address Iran’s nuclear escalation. A diplomatic solution remains the best way to resolve this issue. As the IAEA remains unable to verify that Iran’s nuclear program is exclusively peaceful, they urged Iran’s leadership to cease and reverse nuclear activities that have no credible civilian justification and to cooperate with the IAEA without further delay to fully implement their legally binding safeguards agreement and their commitments under UNSCR 2231(2015).

    They condemned in the strongest possible terms Iran’s export and Russia’s procurement of Iranian ballistic missiles. Evidence that Iran has continued to transfer weaponry to Russia despite repeated international calls to stop represents a further escalation of Iran’s military support to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia has used Iranian weaponry such as UAVs to kill Ukrainian civilians and strike their critical infrastructure.

    They reiterated that Iran must immediately cease all support to Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable war against Ukraine and halt such transfers of ballistic missiles, UAVs and related technology, which constitute a direct threat to the Ukrainian people as well as European and international security more broadly.

    They reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to hold Iran to account for its unacceptable support for Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine that further undermines global security. In line with their previous statements on the matter, they underscored that they are already responding with new and significant measures.

    They also reiterated their deep concern about Iran’s human rights violations, especially against women and minority groups. They reiterated their call on Iran to allow access to the country to relevant UN Human Rights Council Special Procedures mandate holders.

    De-escalation efforts in the region must also include the immediate and unconditional termination of any attack by the Houthis against international and commercial vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea. The G7 members reiterated their strong condemnation of these attacks and the right of countries to defend their vessels from attacks. They called for the immediate release by the Houthis of the Galaxy Leader and its crew. They expressed their strong concern about the August 21 attack on the merchant vessel Sounion and the ongoing risk of an environmental catastrophe as salvage operations continue. They welcomed the efforts by the EU maritime operation Aspides and by the US-led Operation Prosperity Guardian to protect vital sea lanes. They appreciated the efforts of those countries that are committed to protect freedom of navigation and trade, as well as maritime security, in line with UNSCR 2722 (2024) and in accordance with international law.

    5. Fostering partnerships with African Countries

    The G7 members reaffirmed their commitment to support African nations in the pursuit of sustainable development as well as the creation of jobs and growth. The focus remains on fostering fair partnerships, built on shared principles, democratic values, local leadership, and practical initiatives.

    They reiterated their intention to align actions with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the specific needs of African countries, including plans to improve local and regional food security, infrastructure, trade, and agricultural productivity. They expressed their support for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, a crucial factor for Africa’s growth in the next decade.

    The G7 members emphasized the need to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with African countries and regional organizations. In addition to maintaining financial support for African nations, they expressed their determination to improve the coordination and effectiveness of G7 resources, mobilizing domestic resources and encouraging increased private investments.

    They welcomed the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20, and the creation of an additional Chair for Sub-Saharan Africa on the IMF Executive Board in November.

    They reaffirmed their commitment to the G20 Compact with Africa, a tool aimed at enhancing private investment, driving structural reforms, supporting local entrepreneurship, and fostering cooperation, particularly in the energy sector. The G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), and initiatives like the EU’s Global Gateway can contribute to promote sustainable, resilient, and economically viable infrastructure in Africa, ensuring transparency in project selection, procurement, and financing. In this framework, they welcomed Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa.

    They recognized that sustainable development, peace and security and democracy go hand in hand, reaffirming their commitment to help African governments in strengthening democratic governance and respect for human rights, while addressing conditions conducive to terrorism, violent extremism, and instability.

    They expressed their deep concern about the destabilizing activities of the Kremlin-backed Wagner Group and other Russia-supported entities. They called for accountability for all those responsible for human rights violations and abuses.

    6. Indo-Pacific

    The G7 members reiterated their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, based on the rule of law, which is inclusive, prosperous and secure, grounded on sovereignty, territorial integrity, peaceful resolution of disputes, fundamental freedoms and human rights. They reaffirmed the importance of working together with regional partners and organizations, notably the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). They reaffirmed their thorough support for ASEAN centrality and unity. They reaffirmed their intention to work to support Pacific Island Countries’ priorities, as articulated through the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

    As they seek constructive and stable relations with China, they recognized the importance of direct and candid engagement to express concerns and manage differences. They reaffirmed their readiness to cooperate with China to address global challenges. They expressed their deep concern at the China’s support to Russia. They called on China to step up efforts to promote international peace and security, and to press Russia to stop its military aggression and immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw its troops from Ukraine. They encouraged China to support a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on territorial integrity and the principles and purposes of the UN Charter, including through its direct dialogue with Ukraine. They also expressed their deep concern at China’s ongoing support for Russia’s defense industrial base, which is enabling Russia to maintain its illegal war in Ukraine and has significant and broad-based security implications. They called on China to cease the transfer of dual-use materials, including weapons components and equipment, that are inputs for Russia’s defense sector.

    They recognized the importance of China in global trade. However, they expressed their concerns about China’s persistent industrial targeting and comprehensive non-market policies and practices that are leading to global spillovers, market distortions and harmful overcapacity in a growing range of sectors, undermining our workers, industries and economic resilience and security, as well as impacting on currencies. The G7 members are not decoupling or turning inwards. They are de-risking and diversifying supply chains where necessary and appropriate and fostering resilience to economic coercion. They called on China to refrain from adopting export control measures, particularly on critical minerals, that could lead to significant supply chain disruptions. Together with partners, the G7 members will invest in building their respective industrial capacities, promote diversified and resilient supply chains, and reduce critical dependencies and vulnerabilities.

    They remained seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas and reiterated their strong opposition to any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion. They reaffirmed that there is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and they reiterated their opposition to China’s militarization and coercive and intimidation activities in the South China Sea. They re-emphasized the universal and unified character of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and reaffirmed UNCLOS’s important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and the seas. They reiterated that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on 12 July 2016 is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties. They reiterated their strong opposition to China’s dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia in the South China Sea and its repeated obstruction of countries’ high seas freedom of navigation. They expressed deep concern about the dangerous and obstructive maneuvers, including water cannons and ramming, by the China Coast Guard and maritime militia against Philippines vessels.

    The G7 members reaffirmed that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is indispensable to international security and prosperity, and called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues. There is no change in the basic position of the G7 members on Taiwan, including stated One-China policies. They supported Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations as a member where statehood is not a prerequisite and as an observer or guest where it is.

    They remained concerned by the human rights situation in China, including in Xinjiang and Tibet. They are also worried about the crackdown on Hong Kong’s autonomy and independent institutions, and ongoing erosion of rights and freedoms. They urged China and the Hong Kong authorities to act in accordance with their international commitments and applicable legal obligations.

    The G7 members strongly condemned North Korea’s continuing expansion of its unlawful nuclear and ballistic missile programs in violation of multiple UNSC resolutions and its continuous destabilizing activities. They reiterated their call for the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and demanded that North Korea abandons all its nuclear weapons, existing nuclear programs, and any other WMD and ballistic missile programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner, in accordance with all relevant UNSC resolutions. They called on North Korea to return to dialogue to promote peace and stability in the Korean peninsula. They urged all UN Member States to fully implement all relevant UN Security Council resolutions. They reiterated their deep disappointment with Russia’s veto last March on the mandate renewal of the UNSC 1718 Committee Panel of Experts.

    They condemned in the strongest possible terms the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including North Korea’s export and Russia’s procurement of North Korean ballistic missiles and munitions in direct violation of relevant UNSCRs, as well as Russia’s use of these missiles and munitions against Ukraine. They are also deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear or ballistic missiles-related technology to North Korea, in violation of the relevant UNSCRs. They urged Russia and North Korea to immediately cease all such activities and abide by relevant UNSCRs. They urged North Korea to respect human rights, facilitate access for international humanitarian organizations, and resolve the abductions issue immediately.

    They called on China not to conduct or condone activities aimed at undermining the security and safety of our communities and the integrity of our democratic institutions, and to act in strict accordance with its obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

    7. Regional Issues

    Venezuela

    The G7 members reiterated their deep concern about the situation in Venezuela, following the vote on July 28.

    They emphasized that the announced victory of Maduro lacks credibility and democratic legitimacy, as indicated by reports of the UN Panel of Experts and independent international observers as well as data published by the opposition. They underscored that it is essential for electoral results to be complete and independently verified to ensure respect for the will of the Venezuelan people.

    They expressed their outrage for the arrest warrant and constant threats to the security of Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who decided to seek refuge in Spain. According to the above-mentioned independent reports, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia appears to have won the most votes.

    They urged Venezuelan representatives to cease all human rights violations and abuses, arbitrary detentions and widespread restrictions on fundamental freedoms, particularly affecting the political opposition, human rights defenders, and representatives of independent media and civil society. They called for the release of all political prisoners and for a path to freedom and democracy for the people of Venezuela.

    They urged the international community to keep Venezuela high on the diplomatic agenda and they expressed their support for efforts by regional partners to facilitate the Venezuelan-led democratic and peaceful transition that the people of Venezuela have clearly chosen in the polls.

    Haiti

    The G7 members expressed their determination to continue supporting Haitian institutions – including the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) and the Government of Prime Minister Conille – in their commitment to create the necessary conditions of general security and stability for the convening, by February 2026, of free and fair elections. The expression of popular will would set the foundation for the full restoration of democracy and the rule of law in Haiti.

    They also expressed full support to the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, which is providing critical support to the Haitian National Police as they counter criminal gangs engaged in illicit trafficking and inflicting brutal violence upon the population.

    The G7 members emphasized the importance of continued support to the MSS mission through financial contributions to the UN Trust Fund as well as contributions in kind. They expressed their strong appreciation for the commitment of the Government of Kenya – which has already deployed 380 personnel on the ground – to support the Haitian National Police in restoring peace and security.

    They called on all countries that have committed to deploy their contingents to the MSS mission to do so as soon as possible, to consolidate the mission and its fundamental role in the Country. They called on Haiti’s partners to continue their humanitarian assistance to the Haitian people and to expedite their financial and in-kind contributions to the MSS mission to help ensure that the mission is resourced for success.

    They called also on the United Nations Security Council to consider a UN Peace Operation to maintain the security gains of the Haiti National Police and the MSS mission for holding free and fair elections and called on the Secretary-General accordingly to provide support.

    The G7 members welcomed the work of the G7 Working Group on Haiti in monitoring institutional, political, social and security developments in Haiti, with a view to supporting the stabilization of the country and the restoration of full democratic governance.

    Libya

    The G7 members reiterated their unwavering commitment to Libyan stability, sovereignty, independence and unity. They expressed deep concern about recent developments in the country, in particular those involving the leadership of the Central Bank of Libya and the High Council of State, which show the fragility and unsustainability of the present status quo. They urged relevant Libyan parties to rapidly reach the necessary compromises to begin to restore the institutional integrity of the Central Bank of Libya and its standing with the international financial community. They called on Libyan political actors to refrain from taking harmful unilateral actions that create further political tension and fragmentation and make the country vulnerable to harmful foreign interference.

    They noted advances made in the organization of local elections and they called for a free, fair and inclusive participation of all Libyans. It is now imperative to relaunch a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process facilitated by the UN towards free and fair presidential and parliamentary elections.

    They expressed their support and commended the efforts made by UNSMIL officer in charge Stephanie Koury in support of the stabilization of Libya. They called on the Secretary General to appoint a new Special Representative without delay.

    Sudan

    The G7 members reiterated their grave concern over the ongoing fighting, mass-displacement and famine in Sudan.

    They condemned the serious human rights violations and abuses against the civilian population, including widespread sexual and gender-based violence, as well as international humanitarian law violations by both sides to the conflict. They called for an immediate end to the escalating violence, which is creating further displacement, and urged the warring parties to ensure the protection of civilians. They reiterated their commitment to holding accountable all those responsible for violations of international law in Sudan.

    They condemned the emergence of famine in Sudan as a direct consequence of efforts to restrict access of humanitarian actors. They noted recent progress in relation to the re-opening of the Chad-Sudan Adre border crossing, in the wake of the Paris Conference and of the Geneva talks. They called for full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access both into Sudan and across lines of conflict so aid can reach all those in need.

    They urged all parties to cease hostilities immediately and to engage in serious negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting ceasefire, humanitarian access and protection of civilians without pre-conditions.

    They called on external actors to refrain from fueling the conflict, to respect the UN arms embargo on Darfur, and to play a responsible role in resolving the crisis.

    They welcomed mediation efforts by regional and international actors and organizations to facilitate a durable peace for the country.

    Inclusive, national dialogue, aimed at restoring democracy, re-establishing and strengthening the civilian and representative institutions after the end of the conflict, is a prerequisite for lasting peace. The G7 Members emphasized that it is necessary for representatives of Sudanese civil society, including women, to be fully engaged in the reflection on the political future of the country.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: illumin to Participate in Upcoming Investor Conferences

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — illumin Holdings Inc. (TSX:ILLM, OTCQB:ILLMF) (“illumin” or “Company”), a Journey Advertising technology company that empowers marketers to make smarter decisions about communicating with online consumers, today announced that Simon Cairns, Chief Executive Officer, and Elliot Muchnik, Chief Financial Officer, will participate in the following upcoming conferences.

    Wedbush Securities AdTech Conference

    Management will participate (virtually) in a fireside chart at the Wedbush Securities AdTech Conference on Thursday, October 10th at 12:15 pm ET, and will also host virtual investor meetings.

    TD Securities Technology Conference

    The Company will also participate in the TD Securities Technology Conference taking place in Toronto from November 25- 26th. Management will also host investor meetings on Tuesday, November 26th.

    For more information about the conferences or to schedule a one-on-one meeting with management, please contact your representatives at Wedbush Securities and TD Securities.

    About illumin:

    illumin is a journey advertising platform that enables marketers to reach consumers at every stage of their journey by leveraging advanced machine learning algorithms and real-time data analytics. The Company’s mission is to illuminate the path for brands to connect with their customers through the power of data-driven advertising. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, illumin serves clients across North America, Latin America, and Europe.

    For further information, please contact.

      Steve Hosein  David Hanover
      Investor Relations Investor Relations – U.S.
      illumin Holdings Inc. KCSA Strategic Communications
      416-218-9888 x5313  212-896-1220
      investors@illumin.com dhanover@kcsa.com
         

    Disclaimer in regard to Forward-looking Statements

    Certain statements included herein constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend, and undertakes no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect, in particular, new information or future events.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Biden welcomes PM Kier Starmer of the U.K. to the White House for a bilateral meeting

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    The U.S. and U.K. will continue to work together to address our most pressing foreign policy issues – including support for Ukraine, the urgent need for a ceasefire deal that will free the hostages and enable increased relief in Gaza, and a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2Dvw8M9apc

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derry gets set to host the Carnival of the Dead this Halloween

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Derry gets set to host the Carnival of the Dead this Halloween

    25 September 2024

    As the nights draw in it’s a busy time in the home of Halloween as the final preparations are put in place for the Carnival parade that is the centrepiece of Derry’s world-famous festivities.

    Around 650 performers are expected to take part in the Carnival of the Dead, which will weave its magic through the streets of Derry’s city centre from 7pm on Halloween night, October 31st.

    The participants are drawn from all corners of the community – schools, sports clubs, arts groups and local organisations – brought together by the North West Carnival Initiative (NWCI) who are tasked with delivering this mammoth showcase by Derry City and Strabane District Council.

    The NWCI team are currently out and about helping groups create the spooky costumes and props that really bring the creepy characters of Samhain folklore to life.

    Today, Council’s Festival and Events Manager, Jacqueline Whoriskey, joined NWCI Project Manager Jim Collins, to officially launch the parade in the terrifying tunnels of the Tower Museum. It’s just one of the major highlights in a packed four day programme at Europe’s biggest Halloween celebration, as Jacqueline explained. “Derry Halloween attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world to the city, but it has always been a community-oriented event, and an opportunity to showcase local talent on an international stage,” she said.

    “It’s a fantastic chance for groups from all parts of the community – regardless of age, culture or ethnicity – to display their creativity and talents, alongside some of the fabulous show stopping international acts who feature throughout the festival. It’s an inclusive cross-community celebration, with something for everyone to enjoy and I love seeing so many groups bring some extra magic to Derry Halloween.”

    Workshops are already underway and a number of new groups are getting into the spirit of the event, as Jim explained. “It’s all go at the NWCI workshop and our facilitators will be working closely with the groups across the City and District to develop their own bespoke element of the parade,” he explained

    “It’s a big undertaking but I think that community involvement is so important in the success of the event, and it’s fantastic to see that continuing to grow and develop. It sets it apart from other festivals and gives people here ownership of the event. We always have great fun and it’s a chance to learn new skills and bring new ideas to the carnival parade.”

    Derry Halloween is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council and funded by Tourism Northern Ireland and The Executive Office, with support from Ulster University.

    This year the core festival programme will run Monday October 28th – Thursday October 31st with the Awakening the Walled City Trail transforming the town centre from Monday – Wednesday, from 6pm – 9pm, and plenty of festivities taking place throughout Halloween day, October 31st, culminating in the dazzling Halloween Carnival of the Dead Parade at 7pm and fireworks over the Foyle at 8.15pm.

    The parade will weave its way through the City Centre beginning at the Queen’s Quay carpark beside the Council offices, heading up Strand Rd, past the City Hotel then along Queens Quay before returning to the starting point.

    If you would like to take part or volunteer with North West Carnival Initiative, email Jim at [email protected]

    Find out more about the full Derry Halloween programme at derryhalloween.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Saudi Arabia strengthens WFP’s efforts to treat and prevent malnutrition in Somalia

    Source: World Food Programme

    NEW YORK – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to boost nutrition support for the treatment and prevention of malnutrition among thousands of mothers and young children in Somalia.

    Cindy McCain, WFP’s Executive Director and Dr Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Adviser to the Royal Court and Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), signed an agreement in New York for a contribution of US$4.5 million from KSrelief to enable WFP to provide specialised nutritious foods to more than 57,300 malnourished pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as around 122,850 children under the age of two.  

    While the 2024 rainy season (April–June) improved pasture and water availability in pastoral areas, it also triggered flash floods which forced people from their homes, damaged crops and critical infrastructure, and shattered the livelihoods of thousands of people still struggling to recover from the country’s longest recorded drought.

    “Recurring climate extremes such as droughts and floods are devastating the livelihoods of thousands of people and driving up the price of essential food commodities beyond the reach of many,” said El-Khidir Daloum, WFP’s Country Director in Somalia. “This generous contribution from KSrelief will enable WFP to continue supporting the nutrition needs of thousands of vulnerable mothers and children in Somalia.”

    In Somalia, an estimated 1.6 million children are expected to face acute malnutrition until July 2025, with 403,000 of them at risk of severe malnutrition, according to the latest analysis by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC).

    A funding shortfall of US$200 million has forced WFP in Somalia to make difficult decisions about who receives food assistance and who goes without. In June, WFP supported 1.2 million people – only 35 per cent of those then facing crisis-levels of hunger (IPC3+). 

    Without additional resources to address both the emergency and long-term needs of those affected by the climate crisis, millions of people could be forced to take desperate measures to survive.

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on Twitter @WFP_Media @WFPSomalia @WFP_Africa @GccWfp

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: During Climate Week, Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Announces Continued Progress on the American Climate  Corps

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    American Climate Corps Has Already Put 15,000 Young Americans to Work as Part of Its Inaugural Cohort
    Environmental Protection Agency and AmeriCorps Announce a New Environmental Justice Climate Corps; the Department of Housing and Urban Development Joins the Interagency American Climate Corps Initiative
    Since taking office, President Biden has delivered on the most ambitious climate, clean energy, conservation, and environmental justice agenda in history – signing into law the largest investment in climate action ever, protecting more than 42 million acres of public lands and waters, creating good-paying clean energy jobs, and establishing the Justice40 Initiative, which sets the goal that 40 percent of the overall benefits from certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.
    As part of his historic commitment to tackle the climate crisis, President Biden launched the American Climate Corps (ACC) to mobilize the next generation of clean energy, conservation, and climate resilience workers, with a goal to put 20,000 young people to work in the clean energy and climate resilience economy in the initiative’s first year. Today, in celebration of Climate Week, the White House is announcing that more than 15,000 young Americans have been put to work in high-quality, good-paying clean energy and climate resilience workforce training and service opportunities through the American Climate Corps – putting the program on track to reach President Biden’s goal of 20,000 members in the program’s first year ahead of schedule.
    Across the country, American Climate Corps members are working on projects to tackle the climate crisis, including restoring coastal ecosystems, strengthening urban and rural agriculture, investing in clean energy and energy efficiency, improving disaster and wildfire preparedness, and more. The American Climate Corps is giving a diverse new generation of young people the tools to fight the impacts of climate change today and the skills to join the clean energy and climate-resilience workforce of tomorrow.
    Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is making several additional announcements:
    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and AmeriCorps are Announcing a New Environmental Justice Climate Corps, which will put more than 250 American Climate Corps members to work over the next three years providing technical assistance to community-based organizations in environmental justice communities – helping them access resources to carry out locally driven projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, improve public health and safety, and build community capacity to address environmental and climate justice challenges. Environmental Justice Climate Corps members will be paid a living allowance and reimbursed for selected living expenses. In total, this allowance is equivalent to receiving more than $25 per hour throughout their year of service. They will also obtain the benefits of AmeriCorps VISTA service—including the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which is valued at $7,395 in FY24, and streamlined pathways into certain federal jobs—and gain mentorship and professional development opportunities. Applications for the Environmental Justice Climate Corps will open in early 2025, with a goal for its first cohort to start later that year.The partnership with EPA is AmeriCorps’ largest environmental partnership in the agency’s history and will build on the success of three other partnerships announced under the American Climate Corps: AmeriCorps NCCC Forest Corps, Working Lands Climate Corps and Energy Communities AmeriCorps, which together will support more than 500 new ACC positions over the coming years.
    The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is Joining the ACC Interagency Initiative. Joining the seven initial signatories of the December 2023 ACC Memorandum of Understanding, today HUD will become the eighth federal agency member of the ACC Interagency Initiative. This step brings the ACC to the communities HUD serves, building upon the Department’s commitment to using low- and zero-carbon energy and supporting communities to increase their resilience, advance environmental justice, and create good jobs for residents.
    The American Climate Corps is Fostering Federal-State Partnerships by establishing a partnership with state service commissions, which support national service in states across the country, to grow the number of state climate corps and strengthen existing state climate corps programs. Together, the American Climate Corps, state-level climate corps programs, and state national service leadership are committed to strengthening state climate corps, supporting impactful program implementation, and leveraging state and local partnerships to scale climate corps efforts across the country. To date, 14 states have launched their own state-based climate corps programs, including New Jersey who just today announced the creation of the New Jersey Climate Corps. 
    American Climate Corps Will Host a Virtual Job Fair. The American Climate Corps is working to ensure that its members have a pathway to good-paying jobs following their terms of service, which is why later this year, ACC will host a virtual job fair for current and past members to learn about high-quality career opportunities in the clean energy and climate resilience economy. The virtual job fair will bring together the private sector, labor unions, and the public sector, including Federal agencies, to showcase career pathways available to ACC members.
    Today’s announcements build on a year of successful program implementation, including:
    Launch of the American Climate Corps Tour. This fall, to showcase ACC members’ important work across the nation, the American Climate Corps and senior Biden-Harris Administration officials is embarking on a national tour and visiting ten locations to highlight ACC members’ impact in communities across the country.The tour is making stops at a range of ACC project sites and featuring remarks by representatives of the Biden-Harris Administration and other Federal, state, and local elected officials. Visits include ACC member swearing-in ceremonies, service projects, and roundtables with ACC members.
    Creation of the American Climate Corps Storytellers Project. Inspired by the Works Progress Administration’s Federal Art Project, the ACC launched the Storytellers Project, engaging artists and storytellers to capture the impact of President Biden’s American Climate Corps.The ACC Storytellers Project solicited applications from artists across the country. Ten accomplished storytellers were selected to document the impact of the American Climate Corps in communities across the country through photographs, videos, and other visual art mediums. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Byrna Technologies to Report Fiscal Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. ET

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANDOVER, Mass., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Byrna Technologies Inc. (“Byrna” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BYRN), a personal defense technology company specializing in the development, manufacture, and sale of innovative less-lethal personal security solutions, will hold a conference call on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time to discuss its financial results for the fiscal third quarter ended August 31, 2024. Financial results will be issued in a press release prior to the call.

    Byrna management will host the presentation, followed by a question-and-answer period.

    Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2024
    Time: 9:00 a.m. Eastern time
    Toll-Free Dial-In: 877-709-8150
    International Dial-In: +1 201-689-8354
    Conference ID: 13748618

    Please call the conference telephone number 10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Gateway Group at 949-574-3860.

    The conference call will be broadcast live and available for replay here and via the Investor Relations section of Byrna’s website.

    About Byrna Technologies Inc.

    Byrna is a technology company specializing in the development, manufacture, and sale of innovative less-lethal personal security solutions. For more information on the Company, please visit the corporate website here or the Company’s investor relations site here. The Company is the manufacturer of the Byrna® SD personal security device, a state-of-the-art handheld CO2 powered launcher designed to provide a less-lethal alternative to a firearm for the consumer, private security, and law enforcement markets. To purchase Byrna products, visit the Company’s e-commerce store.

    Investor Contact:
    Tom Colton and Alec Wilson
    Gateway Group, Inc.
    949-574-3860
    BYRN@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network