NewzIntel.com

Category: Weather

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Delivering record investments in SA’s south east

    Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

    The Albanese Government is delivering a record investment in South Australia’s south east, and is adding nearly $7 million to improve housing, childcare, economic, tourism and sports facilities.

    This additional funding for the electorate of Barker is delivered through the Albanese Government’s Growing Regions and regional Precincts and Partnership programs which fund projects that help our regions thrive.

    We are investing $3.5 million in the Kingston Childcare and Child services project to deliver a new childcare centre, consultation offices for child allied health service professionals, and a designated space for children’s playgroups and family members.

    The Penola community will get improvements to the facilities at the Penola Football Club and Community Sports Hub with Albanese Government funding of $1.4 million for the redevelopment.

    The Albanese Government is investing $508,000 in the Tailem Bend Precinct Plan which will progress planning for the 10th Street Housing Development and for streetscape upgrades of the main street, highway corridor and connecting areas.

    We are also investing in the Mid Murray region’s plans to build a vibrant tourism hub with a grant of $1.5 million.

    The project will develop a business case, identify tourism assets, and create a precinct plan connecting 11 towns in the council district.

    The Growing Regions Program continues to be highly valued by local communities with a number of worthwhile applications having been received. We look forward to continuing to work with proponents and local councils on these important projects.

    Our grants programs are merit-based and transparent, replacing the legacy of rorts and politicised grants programs by the Liberals and Nationals which were criticised by the Australian National Audit Office.

    The announcements today build on the significant investments already made by the Albanese Government across the Barker electorate.

    We have already invested $17.7 million in Barker from the first round of the Growing Regions Program, more than $900, 000 for Stream 1 of the Housing Support Program and $193,000 for Tintinara Aerodrome. 

    We have also invested $950 million dollars in major projects such as the National Freight Highway Upgrade Program, Princes Highway and Sturt Highway upgrades, the Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund, a safety package for rural roads and Riverland Network Flood Resilience upgrades.

    Local councils in the electorate have received a 55% increase in funding for local roads with the Roads to Recovery investment rising $25.5 million to $68.7 million over five years.

    This is a direct result of the Albanese Government decision to double the funding for the Roads to Recovery program to $1 billion a year.

    For more information on the Albanese Government’s regional funding programs, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/regional . 

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King: 

    “The Albanese Government is building Australia’s future, investing in the infrastructure locals want that will grow the economy, provide jobs and improve community facilities.

    “Developing housing, childcare, tourism and sports facilities helps strengthen economies and helps communities to thrive.

    “We understand how important infrastructure is in regions like the south east which is why we prioritise working with local communities.”

    Quotes attributable to Senator for South Australia, Don Farrell:

    “From families in Kingston and budding athletes in Penola, to residents in Tailem Bend and small businesses across the Mid Murray, we are investing in local communities.

    “Developing the infrastructure locals need will support our regions to prosper – delivering for families and small businesses and creating new opportunities for tourism in our state’s spectacular southeast.

    “I am proud to be part of an Albanese Government that is committed to building Australia’s future and delivering for regional communities across South Australia.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Climate – Seasonal Climate Outlook February to April 2025 by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA)

    Source: NIWA

    Seasonal Climate Outlook
    New Zealand is likely to experience a blend of typical La Niña climate patterns, along with occasional atypical patterns over the next three months, according to the latest Seasonal Climate Outlook released today (Friday 31 January 2025) by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA).
    A La Niña Advisory is in effect, though weak and expected to be short-lived, says NIWA National Climate Centre Principal Scientist Chris Brandolino, with international guidance indicating around a 50% chance for La Niña conditions persisting through the February to April period. “When combined with atypical characteristics including sea surface temperature anomalies, is likely to mean New Zealand will experience La Niña-like patterns with occasional deviation.”
    Overall, New Zealand can expect wind from the easterly quarter, ranging from NE to SE flows, along with occasional periods of westerly quarter flows, from SW to NW, for the three-month period, he says. “The north and west of the North Island can expect warmer than average temperatures, with equal chances for near average or above average seasonal air temperatures for most other regions.”
    Early February weather is likely to be drier than normal, but over the three months through to the end of April seasonal rainfall is forecast to be near or above normal for most regions. However, northern and eastern North Island may see occasional heavy rain events.
    Soil moisture and river flows are expected to be near or below normal in most areas. At the same time, sea surface temperatures are forecast to be above average, with a normal to elevated tropical cyclone risk with the potential for an ex-tropical cyclone to pass near New Zealand.
    Attached is the February-April 2025 Seasonal Climate Outlook in pdf and Word formats, along with three supporting infographics showing national rainfall and temperature forecasts.
    Please read the ‘Note to Reporters and Editors’ at the end of the outlook to assist your understanding of the content, its creation and the terminology used.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Response to Graham, Kash Patel Confirms Politicization of FBI Will End

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today questioned Kash Patel, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), at his Senate Judiciary Committee nomination hearing.
    On the politicization of the FBI:
    GRAHAM: “The reason you’re here is because most of the public, almost every Republican, believes that the FBI has been used continuously in a political fashion, ignoring evidence, making up evidence, lying to get Donald Trump. And when it came to the Hunter Biden laptop, [the FBI] told every social media company, ‘oh that’s Russian disinformation.’ That was BS too… do you promise all of us those days are over at the FBI?”
    PATEL: “Yes Senator, they are.”
    GRAHAM: “…Do you think that’s why you’re here today, to make sure that never happens again?”
    GRAHAM: “[Former FBI agent Lisa Page] responds [to former FBI agent Peter Strzok] a couple months later, ‘[Trump] is not ever going to be president, right?’ …Strzok [responded]: ‘No. No he won’t. We’ll stop him.’ Is it fair to say that the people in charge of investigating Crossfire Hurricane hated Trump’s guts?”
    PATEL: “Well you don’t have to take my word for it…”
    GRAHAM: “Are those days over in the FBI, you hope?”
    GRAHAM: “Do you believe that Crossfire Hurricane was one of the most disgusting episodes in FBI history of a corrupt investigation led by corrupt people who wanted to take Donald Trump down?”
    PATEL: “Yes, sir.”
    GRAHAM: “Do you think that’s why you’re here in this chair today? To fix that?”
    PATEL: “I think that’s a big reason.”
    On Democrats’ attacks on Patel’s character:
    GRAHAM: “Have you ever been subject to racism as an individual?”
    PATEL: “Unfortunately, Senator, yes. I don’t want to get into those details with my family here.”
    GRAHAM: “Let’s get into a few of them. Tell me about it.”
    PATEL: “Well, if you look at the record from January 6th, where I testified before that committee, because of my personal information being released by Congress, I was subjected to a direct and significant threat on my life. And I put that information in the record. I had to move. In that threat, I was called a detestable, and I apologize if I don’t get it all right, but it’s in the record, a detestable [expletive] who had no right being in this country. ‘You should go back to where you came from. You belong with your terrorist home friends.’ That’s what was sent to me. That’s just the piece of it, but that’s nothing compared to what the men and women in law enforcement face every day, and that’s why they have my support.” https://youtu.be/KoHclcynkNI?si=RkOg1tDKXzfFDO8_&t=7
    Click here to watch Graham question Kash Patel

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 01/30/2025 Blackburn, Cortez Masto, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Help Tennesseans Recover from Natural Disasters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), John Kennedy (R-La.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) in introducing bipartisan legislation to provide relief for impacted taxpayers in states that have issued state-level disaster declarations. Currently, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has the authority to postpone filing deadlines in the event of a presidentially-declared federal disaster, but this does not extend to state-level emergencies.
    “When a disaster like Hurricane Helene hits, the last thing Tennesseans should have to worry about is meeting a tax-filing deadline,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act empowers the governor to extend tax deadlines, giving Tennesseans the flexibility to focus on disaster recovery.”
    “Nevadans experiencing natural disasters deserve tax relief, regardless of whether the state receives a federally recognized disaster declaration,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “My bipartisan, bicameral bill would ensure that Nevada taxpayers impacted by wildfires, winter storms, floods, and more have the financial flexibility they need to recover.”
    “Louisianians have worked tirelessly to rebuild after historic storms took their toll, so giving them the time they need to file taxes after a natural disaster is a no-brainer. Since Louisiana can’t always rely on Washington to get us the relief we need when we need it, this bill would make sure that Louisianians get tax extensions that are crucial for recovering after our state declares a natural disaster. I’m glad to partner again with Sen. Cortez Masto on this effort,” said Senator Kennedy.
    “When disaster strikes, the burden families face on the long road to recovery is overwhelming. This bipartisan bill provides financial flexibility for Americans impacted by disaster so they can focus on rebuilding their lives and livelihoods,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    FILING RELIEF FOR NATURAL DISASTERS ACT:

    The Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act would allow the governor of a state or territory to extend a federal tax filing deadline in the event of a state-declared emergency or disaster, which happens automatically for federally-declared disasters. Extending this authority to states gives them the ability to provide relief independent of the federal government’s involvement in an emergency or natural disaster.
    The legislation would also expand the mandatory federal filing extension from 60 days to 120 days.
    Representatives David Kustoff (R-Tenn.) and Judy Chu (D-Calif.) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Jones reveals Govt’s actual climate policy – expanding fossil fuel extraction

    Source: Greenpeace

    The Government’s true climate policy, which is to increase fossil fuel extraction, was revealed today in the release of the finalised mining policy, says Greenpeace.
    “Just a few hours after the Government released an updated Paris Climate Target, their actual climate policy was revealed by Shane Jones in the policy to increase fossil fuel extraction,” says Greenpeace Aotearoa executive director Russel Norman.
    “The Luxon Government wants to fast track coal mining and restart oil and gas exploration, which is a complete contradiction to the objectives of the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse emissions.”
    The Government’s announcement went one step further with a threat to introduce regulations that will force banks to finance fossil fuel expansion.
    “Shane Jones, acting as an agent of foreign mining companies, is attempting to force fossil fuel extraction on New Zealanders, most of whom want a responsible climate policy,” says Norman.
    “Overseas-based fossil fuel companies will walk away with profits while New Zealanders will be left to pay the clean-up costs.
    The offshore oil company Tamarind Oil left New Zealanders with a $400m clean-up bill when they went bankrupt.
    “The Government’s true climate policy must be judged by their actions not their words – and their actions are more fossil fuel extraction.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Drivers advised to plan for winter conditions, snow on South Coast

    Drivers in the Lower Mainland, Howe Sound and Vancouver Island areas are urged to avoid travel where possible as significant snow and sub-zero temperatures are forecast to hit the South Coast this weekend.

    A special weather statement has been issued for the South Coast by Environment Canada and Climate Change Canada. Snow accumulation is expected, initially in higher elevations of the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island, starting the evening of Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, and into Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. The cold-weather system will persist, with snow and freezing rain forecast at sea level across the South Coast over the weekend and early into next week. There is a potential for significant snowfall, upward of 5-20 cm, with a chance of high-intensity accumulation on roads at times. 

    Drivers are urged to use caution and only drive if their vehicles are winter-ready. Winter tires are required to travel through all high-elevation areas, such as the Sea to Sky and Malahat. People who choose to travel should prepare for delays and ensure their vehicles are properly equipped with extra supplies, including food, water and blankets.

    Conditions are being closely monitored on all Lower Mainland highways. The Province’s road and bridge maintenance contractors are prepped, and anti-icing brine is being proactively applied. High-occupancy vehicle lanes on the Port Mann Bridge will be closed to support winter operations as crews use the cable collar systems to keep traffic safely moving. Lane closures at the Alex Fraser Bridge can also be expected to support winter operations as crews actively manage cable-collar systems. 

    On Vancouver Island, maintenance crews are proactively applying anti-icing brine and are closely monitoring conditions. The ministry will be working closely with its contractors to ensure plows and tow trucks are deployed quickly during snowy conditions.

    People who choose to travel are reminded to leave space for highway-maintenance crews and move over safely when they see a vehicle with an amber light approaching. Drivers whose vehicles are not winter-ready must consider alternative modes of travel as significant snowfall is expected.

    For up-to-date information about road conditions, travellers should continue to monitor the forecast and visit: https://www.drivebc.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Baker Hughes Announces Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fourth-quarter highlights

    • Orders of $7.5 billion, including $3.8 billion of IET orders.
    • RPO of $33.1 billion, including IET RPO of $30.1 billion.
    • Revenue of $7.4 billion, up 8% year-over-year.
    • GAAP diluted EPS of $1.18 and adjusted diluted EPS* of $0.70.
    • Adjusted EBITDA* of $1,310 million, up 20% year-over-year.
    • Cash flows from operating activities of $1,189 million and free cash flow* of $894 million.

    Full-year highlights

    • Orders of $28.2 billion, including $13.0 billion of IET orders.
    • Revenue of $27.8 billion, up 9% year-over-year.
    • Attributable net income of $2,979 million.
    • GAAP diluted EPS of $2.98 and adjusted diluted EPS* of $2.35.
    • Adjusted EBITDA* of $4,591 million, up 22% year-over-year.
    • Cash flows from operating activities of $3,332 million and free cash flow* of $2,257 million.
    • Returns to shareholders of $1,320 million, including $484 million of share repurchases.

    HOUSTON and LONDON, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes Company (Nasdaq: BKR) (“Baker Hughes” or the “Company”) announced results today for the fourth-quarter and full-year 2024.

    “2024 proved to be a momentous year for Baker Hughes. We closed out the year with exceptional fourth-quarter results, setting new quarterly and annual records for revenue, free cash flow and our adjusted measures of EPS, EBITDA, and EBITDA margin. Our strategy to drive profitable growth and continuous margin improvement is working. Looking forward, we will continue our journey to transform the Company, and we expect 2025 to demonstrate another strong year of EBITDA growth, led by our IET segment,” said Lorenzo Simonelli, Baker Hughes Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

    “IET booked $3.8 billion of orders in the fourth quarter, supported by strong LNG orders and another gas infrastructure award. Including this strong end to the year, 2024 orders totaled $13 billion, the second highest order year ever. This order performance highlights the end-market diversity and versatility of our portfolio.”

    “Overall, our margin increase across both segments continues to demonstrate strong progress on the journey toward 20% segment EBITDA margins. Transformation actions will continue to be a major driver of our margin improvements as we progress through 2025 and beyond. We remain confident in achieving our 20% EBITDA margin targets for OFSE this year and IET in 2026.”

    “As reflected in our strong 2024 results and our exceptional margin improvement, Baker Hughes has evolved into a more profitable energy and industrial technology company. Company results are benefiting from strong execution, sharpened commercial focus and improved productivity gains. Our confidence in the durability and growth of our earnings and free cash flow positions us to continue growing our dividend, highlighted by the announcement to increase our quarterly dividend by 10% to $0.23.”

    “I would like to thank the Baker Hughes team for yet again delivering outstanding results. As we continue our journey to move Baker Hughes forward, we remain committed to our customers, shareholders, and employees,” concluded Simonelli.

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

      Three Months Ended   Variance
    (in millions except per share amounts) December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders $ 7,496 $ 6,676 $ 6,904   12 % 9 %
    Revenue   7,364   6,908   6,835   7 % 8 %
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes   1,179   766   439   54 % 168 %
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes*   694   666   511   4 % 36 %
    Operating income   665   930   651   (29 )% 2 %
    Adjusted operating income*   1,019   930   816   10 % 25 %
    Adjusted EBITDA*   1,310   1,208   1,091   8 % 20 %
    Diluted earnings per share (EPS)   1.18   0.77   0.43   54 % 171 %
    Adjusted diluted EPS*   0.70   0.67   0.51   4 % 37 %
    Cash flow from operating activities   1,189   1,010   932   18 % 28 %
    Free cash flow*   894   754   633   19 % 41 %

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Certain columns and rows in our tables and financial statements may not sum up due to the use of rounded numbers.

    Quarter Highlights

    Industrial & Energy Technology (“IET”) recorded another strong quarter of gas infrastructure orders, booking an equipment award from Tecnicas Reunidas for the third expansion phase of the Jafurah unconventional gas field in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Gas Technology Equipment (“GTE”) will supply a total of 12 electric motor-driven compression trains and auxiliary treatment equipment for gas processing. This contract builds upon Baker Hughes’ long-standing relationship with Aramco and follows previous contract awards in 2022, bringing the total to 24 electric motor-driven compressors and an additional 14 compressors supplied by Baker Hughes for multiple Jafurah gas processing plants.

    In demonstration of its well-established leadership position in liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) technology solutions, Baker Hughes received multiple project awards in the fourth quarter. As part of a master equipment supply agreement, IET received a major contract to provide a modularized LNG system and power island to Venture Global. IET also received, from Bechtel Energy, a GTE award to supply eight LM6000 PF+ driven main refrigeration compressors and eight expander compressors across two LNG trains for a nameplate capacity of approximately 11 million ton per annum for Phase 1 of Woodside Energy’s Louisiana project.

    Gas Technology Services (“GTS”) continues to demonstrate leadership in turbomachinery aftermarket service, booking several notable service and upgrade awards to backlog. GTS signed a long-term services agreement to support Phases 1 and 2 of Venture Global’s Plaquemines LNG project, and also signed a 25-year services agreement with a NextDecade affiliate to support its Rio Grande LNG facility. Additionally, GTS received an award from an energy operator to provide planned maintenance activities to assure reliability, availability, and efficiency of turbomachinery at their LNG facility in Asia Pacific. The capabilities of IET’s iCenter™ will also be utilized to drive improved outcomes for the customer. Finally, GTS booked multiple upgrade awards for gas infrastructure projects in the Middle East and Europe.

    Climate Technology Solutions (“CTS”) secured multiple awards targeting flare reduction. As announced at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, CTS will provide SOCAR, the state-owned oil company of Azerbaijan, with an integrated gas recovery and hydrogen sulfide removal system to significantly reduce downstream flaring at the Heydar Aliyev Oil Refinery. Separately in the Middle East, CTS will supply electric-driven centrifugal compressors for one of the largest gas processing and flare gas recovery projects globally.

    Oilfield Services & Equipment (“OFSE”), through its Mature Assets Solutions (“MAS”) offering, received a multi-year contract from Eni to help unlock bypassed reserves in one of Europe’s largest developments. Baker Hughes will utilize its AutoTrak eXact™ rotary steerable drilling system to reduce risks and execution costs for Eni. OFSE also booked another MAS award in the Middle East to provide artificial lift services in a super-giant oilfield, including advanced permanent magnet motors for improved electric submersible pump efficiency.

    Baker Hughes experienced a strong order quarter for flexible pipe systems in Brazil. Following a third-quarter 2024 award, OFSE received another flexible pipe systems award from Petrobras after an open tender, reinforcing this important relationship and Baker Hughes’ leading position in the product line. The capability of Baker Hughes’ flexible pipe systems to address the critical issue of stress-induced corrosion cracking from CO2 resulted in this significant award for approximately 48 miles of flexible pipe systems to be installed across four different fields. Additionally, OFSE received an order from Brava Energia to supply 9 miles of flexible pipe systems to be deployed in the Campos Basin.

    OFSE also advanced its digitalization and artificial intelligence capabilities, signing an agreement with AIQ, ADNOC and CORVA to launch the AI Rate of Penetration (ROP) Optimization initiative. The project aims to enhance drilling efficiency in real-time by providing insights and recommendations for optimizing weight on bit, rotations per minute and other critical parameters.

    Consolidated Revenue and Operating Income by Reporting Segment

    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
      December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		   Sequential Year-over-year
    Oilfield Services & Equipment $ 3,871   $ 3,963   $ 3,956     (2 )% (2 )%
    Industrial & Energy Technology   3,492     2,945     2,879     19  % 21  %
    Segment revenue   7,364     6,908     6,835     7  % 8  %
                 
    Oilfield Services & Equipment   526     547     492     (4 )% 7  %
    Industrial & Energy Technology   584     474     412     23  % 42  %
    Corporate(1)   (91 )   (91 )   (88 )   —  % (3 )%
    Inventory impairment(2)   (73 )   —     (2 )   NM    NM   
    Restructuring, impairment and other   (281 )   —     (163 )   NM     (73 )%
    Operating income   665     930     651     (29 )% 2  %
    Adjusted operating income*   1,019     930     816     10  % 25  %
    Depreciation & amortization   291     278     274     5  % 6  %
    Adjusted EBITDA* $ 1,310   $ 1,208   $ 1,091     8  % 20  %

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    “NM” is used when the percentage variance is not meaningful.

    (1)   Corporate costs are primarily reported in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of income (loss).

    (2)   Charges for inventory impairments are reported in “Cost of goods sold” in the consolidated statements of income (loss).

    Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $7,364 million, an increase of 7% sequentially and an increase of 8% year-over-year. The increase in revenue year-over-year was driven by IET.

    The Company’s total book-to-bill ratio in the fourth quarter of 2024 was 1.0; the IET book-to-bill ratio was 1.1.

    Operating income as determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $665 million. Operating income decreased $265 million sequentially and increased $13 million year-over-year. Restructuring, impairment, and other charges were $281 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, primarily related to streamlining of the OFSE operating model.

    Adjusted operating income (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $1,019 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $354 million. A list of the adjusting items and associated reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1a in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted operating income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was up 10% sequentially and up 25% year-over-year.

    Depreciation and amortization for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $291 million.

    Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $1,310 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $354 million. See Table 1b in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted EBITDA for the fourth quarter was up 8% sequentially and up 20% year-over-year.

    The sequential increase in adjusted operating income and adjusted EBITDA was driven by higher volume in IET and structural cost-out initiatives in both segments, primarily offset by lower volume in OFSE. The year-over-year increase in adjusted operating income and adjusted EBITDA was driven by higher pricing and structural cost-out initiatives in both segments, and increased volume in IET primarily from higher proportionate growth in GTE, partially offset by decreased volume in OFSE and cost inflation in both segments.

    Other Financial Items

    Remaining Performance Obligations (“RPO”) in the fourth quarter of 2024 ended at $33.1 billion, a decrease of $0.3 billion from the third quarter of 2024. OFSE RPO was $3.0 billion, down 6% sequentially, while IET RPO was $30.1 billion, down $100 million sequentially. Within IET RPO, GTE RPO was $11.8 billion and GTS RPO was $15.0 billion.

    Income tax benefit in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $398 million reflecting the impact of a valuation allowance release in the U.S. The valuation allowance has been released primarily as a result of the U.S. moving into a cumulative three-year profit position.

    Other non-operating income in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $181 million. Included in other non-operating income were net mark-to-market gains in fair value and gains from sale for certain equity investments of $196 million.

    GAAP diluted earnings per share was $1.18. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (a non-GAAP financial measure) was $0.70. Excluded from adjusted diluted earnings per share were all items listed in Table 1c in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Cash flow from operating activities was $1,189 million for the fourth quarter of 2024. Free cash flow (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the quarter was $894 million. A reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1d in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets, were $295 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, of which $195 million was for OFSE and $87 million was for IET.

    Results by Reporting Segment
     

    The following segment discussions and variance explanations are intended to reflect management’s view of the relevant comparisons of financial results on a sequential or year-over-year basis, depending on the business dynamics of the reporting segments.

    Oilfield Services & Equipment

    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders $ 3,740   $ 3,807   $ 3,874     (2 )% (3 )%
    Revenue $ 3,871   $ 3,963   $ 3,956     (2 )% (2 )%
    Operating income $ 526   $ 547   $ 492     (4 )% 7  %
    Operating margin   13.6 %   13.8 %   12.4 %   -0.2pts   1.1pts  
    Depreciation & amortization $ 229   $ 218   $ 217     5  % 6  %
    EBITDA* $ 755   $ 765   $ 709     (1 )% 7  %
    EBITDA margin*   19.5 %   19.3 %   17.9 %   0.2pts   1.6pts  
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		   Sequential Year-over-year
    Well Construction $ 943 $ 1,050 $ 1,122   (10 )% (16 )%
    Completions, Intervention, and Measurements   1,022   1,009   1,086   1  % (6 )%
    Production Solutions   974   983   990   (1 )% (2 )%
    Subsea & Surface Pressure Systems   932   921   758   1  % 23  %
    Total Revenue $ 3,871 $ 3,963 $ 3,956   (2 )% (2 )%
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Geographic Region December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		   Sequential Year-over-year
    North America $ 971 $ 971 $ 1,018   —  % (5 )%
    Latin America   661   648   708   2  % (7 )%
    Europe/CIS/Sub-Saharan Africa   740   933   707   (21 )% 5  %
    Middle East/Asia   1,499   1,411   1,522   6  % (2 )%
    Total Revenue $ 3,871 $ 3,963 $ 3,956   (2 )% (2 )%
                 
    North America $ 971 $ 971 $ 1,018   —  % (5 )%
    International   2,900   2,992   2,938   (3 )% (1 )%

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    OFSE orders of $3,740 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 decreased by $67 million sequentially. Subsea and Surface Pressure Systems orders were $802 million, up 3% sequentially, and up 23% year-over-year.

    OFSE revenue of $3,871 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 was down 2% sequentially, and down 2% year-over-year.

    North America revenue was $971 million, flat sequentially. International revenue was $2,900 million, down 3% sequentially, driven by declines in Europe/CIS/Sub-Saharan Africa region partially offset by growth in Middle East/Asia and Latin America.

    Segment operating income for the fourth quarter was $526 million, a decrease of $22 million, or 4%, sequentially. Segment EBITDA for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $755 million, a decrease of $10 million, or 1% sequentially. The sequential decrease in segment operating income and EBITDA was driven by lower volume, partially mitigated by positive price and productivity from structural cost-out initiatives.

    Industrial & Energy Technology

    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		   Sequential Year-over-year
    Orders $ 3,756   $ 2,868   $ 3,030     31 % 24 %
    Revenue $ 3,492   $ 2,945   $ 2,879     19 % 21 %
    Operating income $ 584   $ 474   $ 412     23 % 42 %
    Operating margin   16.7 %   16.1 %   14.3 %   0.6pts 2.4pts
    Depreciation & amortization $ 56   $ 54   $ 51     4 % 8 %
    EBITDA* $ 639   $ 528   $ 463     21 % 38 %
    EBITDA margin*   18.3 %   17.9 %   16.1 %   0.4pts 2.2pts
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Orders by Product Line December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		   Sequential Year-over-year
    Gas Technology Equipment $ 1,865 $ 1,088 $ 1,297   71  % 44  %
    Gas Technology Services   902   778   808   16  % 12  %
    Total Gas Technology   2,767   1,866   2,105   48  % 31  %
    Industrial Products   515   494   514   4  % —  %
    Industrial Solutions   320   293   288   9  % 11  %
    Total Industrial Technology   835   787   802   6  % 4  %
    Climate Technology Solutions   154   215   123   (28 )% 25  %
    Total Orders $ 3,756 $ 2,868 $ 3,030   31  % 24  %
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line December 31,
    2024    		 September 30,
    2024    		 December 31,
    2023    		   Sequential Year-over-year
    Gas Technology Equipment $ 1,663 $ 1,281 $ 1,206   30 % 38 %
    Gas Technology Services   796   697   714   14 % 11 %
    Total Gas Technology   2,459   1,978   1,920   24 % 28 %
    Industrial Products   548   520   513   5 % 7 %
    Industrial Solutions   282   257   276   10 % 2 %
    Total Industrial Technology   830   777   789   7 % 5 %
    Climate Technology Solutions   204   191   170   7 % 20 %
    Total Revenue $ 3,492 $ 2,945 $ 2,879   19 % 21 %

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    IET orders of $3,756 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 increased by $726 million, or 24% year-over-year. The increase was driven primarily by GTE orders which were up $568 million, or 44% year-over-year.

    IET revenue of $3,492 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 increased $613 million, or 21% year-over-year. The increase was driven primarily by Gas Technology, up 28% year-over-year.

    Segment operating income for the quarter was $584 million, an increase of $172 million, or 42% year-over-year. Segment EBITDA for the quarter was $639 million, an increase of $176 million, or 38% year-over-year. The year-over-year increase in segment operating income and segment EBITDA was driven by increased volume primarily from higher proportionate growth in GTE, positive pricing, and productivity, partially offset by cost inflation.

    2024 Total Year Results

    (in millions) Twelve Months Ended   Variance
      December 31, 2024 December 31, 2023   Year-over-year
    Oilfield Services & Equipment $ 15,240   $ 16,344     (7)%
    Industrial & Energy Technology   13,000     14,178     (8)%
    Orders $ 28,240   $ 30,522     (7)%
             
    Oilfield Services & Equipment $ 15,628   $ 15,361     2%
    Industrial & Energy Technology   12,201     10,145     20%
    Segment Revenue $ 27,829   $ 25,506     9%
             
    Oilfield Services & Equipment $ 1,988   $ 1,746     14%
    Industrial & Energy Technology   1,830     1,310     40%
    Corporate(1)   (363 )   (380 )   5%
    Inventory impairment(2)   (73 )   (35 )   (110)%
    Restructuring, impairment & other   (301 )   (323 )   7%
    Operating income   3,081     2,317     33%
    Adjusted operating income *   3,455     2,676     29%
    Depreciation & amortization   1,136     1,087     4%
    Adjusted EBITDA * $ 4,591   $ 3,763     22%

    * Non-GAAP measure. See reconciliations in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    (1)   Corporate costs are primarily reported in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of income (loss).

    (2)   Charges for inventory impairments are reported in “Cost of goods sold” in the consolidated statements of income (loss). 

    Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Management provides non-GAAP financial measures because it believes such measures are widely accepted financial indicators used by investors and analysts to analyze and compare companies on the basis of operating performance (including adjusted operating income; EBITDA; EBITDA margin; adjusted EBITDA; adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes; and adjusted diluted earnings per share) and liquidity (free cash flow) and that these measures may be used by investors to make informed investment decisions. Management believes that the exclusion of certain identified items from several key operating performance measures enables us to evaluate our operations more effectively, to identify underlying trends in the business, and to establish operational goals for certain management compensation purposes. Management also believes that free cash flow is an important supplemental measure of our cash performance but should not be considered as a measure of residual cash flow available for discretionary purposes, or as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities presented in accordance with GAAP.

    Table 1a. Reconciliation of GAAP and Adjusted Operating Income

      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, September 30, December 31,   December 31,
    (in millions)   2024   2024   2023     2024   2023
    Operating income (GAAP) $ 665 $ 930 $ 651   $ 3,081 $ 2,317
    Restructuring, impairment & other   281   —   163     301   323
    Inventory impairment(1)   73   —   2     73   35
    Total operating income adjustments   354   —   165     375   358
    Adjusted operating income (non-GAAP) $ 1,019 $ 930 $ 816   $ 3,455 $ 2,676

    (1)   Charges for inventory impairments are reported in “Cost of goods sold” in the consolidated statements of income (loss).

    Table 1a reconciles operating income, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to adjusted operating income. Adjusted operating income excludes the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1b. Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, September 30, December 31,   December 31,
    (in millions)   2024     2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP) $ 1,179   $ 766   $ 439   $ 2,979   $ 1,943  
    Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   11     8     11     29     27  
    Provision (benefit) for income taxes   (398 )   235     72     257     685  
    Interest expense, net   54     55     45     198     216  
    Other non-operating (income) loss, net   (181 )   (134 )   84     (382 )   (554 )
    Operating income (GAAP)   665     930     651     3,081     2,317  
    Depreciation & amortization   291     278     274     1,136     1,087  
    EBITDA (non-GAAP)   956     1,208     926     4,216     3,405  
    Total operating income adjustments(1)   354     —     165     375     358  
    Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) $ 1,310   $ 1,208   $ 1,091   $ 4,591   $ 3,763  

    (1)   See Table 1a for the identified adjustments to operating income.

    Table 1b reconciles net income attributable to Baker Hughes, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA excludes the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1c. Reconciliation of Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes to Adjusted Net Income Attributable to Baker Hughes

      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, September 30, December 31,   December 31,
    (in millions, except per share amounts)   2024     2024     2023       2024     2023  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP) $ 1,179   $ 766   $ 439     $ 2,979   $ 1,943  
    Total operating income adjustments(1)   354     —     165       375     358  
    Other adjustments (non-operating)(2)   (189 )   (99 )   89       (335 )   (554 )
    Tax adjustments(3)   (650 )   (1 )   (181 )     (663 )   (124 )
    Total adjustments, net of income tax   (485 )   (100 )   72       (623 )   (320 )
    Less: adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests   —     —     —       —     —  
    Adjustments attributable to Baker Hughes   (485 )   (100 )   72       (623 )   (320 )
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes (non-GAAP) $ 694   $ 666   $ 511     $ 2,356   $ 1,622  
                 
                 
    Denominator:            
    Weighted-average shares of Class A common stock outstanding diluted   999     999     1,010       1,001     1,015  
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted (non-GAAP) $ 0.70   $ 0.67   $ 0.51     $ 2.35   $ 1.60  

    (1)   See Table 1a for the identified adjustments to operating income.

    (2)   All periods primarily reflect the net gain or loss on changes in fair value for certain equity investments.

    (3)   All periods reflect the tax associated with the other operating and non-operating adjustments. 4Q’24 and fiscal year 2024 include $664 million and 4Q’23 and fiscal year 2023 include $81 million, respectively, related to the release of valuation allowances for certain deferred tax assets.

    Table 1c reconciles net income attributable to Baker Hughes, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes. Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes excludes the impact of certain identified items.

    Table 1d. Reconciliation of Net Cash Flows From Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow

      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, September 30, December 31,   December 31,
    (in millions)   2024     2024     2023       2024     2023  
    Net cash flows from operating activities (GAAP) $ 1,189   $ 1,010   $ 932     $ 3,332   $ 3,062  
    Add: cash used for capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets   (295 )   (256 )   (298 )     (1,075 )   (1,016 )
    Free cash flow (non-GAAP) $ 894   $ 754   $ 633     $ 2,257   $ 2,045  

    Table 1d reconciles net cash flows from operating activities, which is the directly comparable financial result determined in accordance with GAAP, to free cash flow. Free cash flow is defined as net cash flows from operating activities less expenditures for capital assets plus proceeds from disposal of assets.

    Financial Tables (GAAP)
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
    (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months Ended
    (In millions, except per share amounts) December 31, 2024 September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023
    Revenue $ 7,364   $ 6,908   $ 6,835  
    Costs and expenses:      
    Cost of revenue   5,833     5,366     5,386  
    Selling, general and administrative   585     612     634  
    Restructuring, impairment and other   281     —     163  
    Total costs and expenses   6,699     5,978     6,183  
    Operating income   665     930     651  
    Other non-operating income (loss), net   181     134     (84 )
    Interest expense, net   (54 )   (55 )   (45 )
    Income before income taxes   792     1,009     522  
    Benefit (provision) for income taxes   398     (235 )   (72 )
    Net income   1,190     774     450  
    Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   11     8     11  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes Company $ 1,179   $ 766   $ 439  
           
    Per share amounts:    
    Basic income per Class A common share $ 1.19   $ 0.77   $ 0.44  
    Diluted income per Class A common share $ 1.18   $ 0.77   $ 0.43  
           
    Weighted average shares:      
    Class A basic   990     993     1,001  
    Class A diluted   999     999     1,010  
           
    Cash dividend per Class A common share $ 0.21   $ 0.21   $ 0.20  
           
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
    (Unaudited)
     
      Year Ended December 31,
    (In millions, except per share amounts)   2024     2023     2022  
    Revenue $ 27,829   $ 25,506   $ 21,156  
    Costs and expenses:      
    Cost of revenue   21,989     20,255     16,756  
    Selling, general and administrative   2,458     2,611     2,510  
    Restructuring, impairment and other   301     323     705  
    Total costs and expenses   24,748     23,189     19,971  
    Operating income   3,081     2,317     1,185  
    Other non-operating income (loss), net   382     554     (911 )
    Interest expense, net   (198 )   (216 )   (252 )
    Income before income taxes   3,265     2,655     22  
    Provision for income taxes   (257 )   (685 )   (600 )
    Net income (loss)   3,008     1,970     (578 )
    Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   29     27     23  
    Net income (loss) attributable to Baker Hughes Company $ 2,979   $ 1,943   $ (601 )
           
    Per share amounts:      
    Basic income (loss) per Class A common share $ 3.00   $ 1.93   $ (0.61 )
    Diluted income (loss) per Class A common share $ 2.98   $ 1.91   $ (0.61 )
           
    Weighted average shares:      
    Class A basic   994     1,008     987  
    Class A diluted   1,001     1,015     987  
           
    Cash dividend per Class A common share $ 0.84   $ 0.78   $ 0.73  
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
    (Unaudited)
     
      December 31,
    (In millions)   2024   2023
    ASSETS
    Current Assets:    
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,364 $ 2,646
    Current receivables, net   7,122   7,075
    Inventories, net   4,954   5,094
    All other current assets   1,771   1,486
    Total current assets   17,211   16,301
    Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation   5,127   4,893
    Goodwill   6,078   6,137
    Other intangible assets, net   3,951   4,093
    Contract and other deferred assets   1,730   1,756
    All other assets   4,266   3,765
    Total assets $ 38,363 $ 36,945
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
    Current Liabilities:    
    Accounts payable $ 4,542 $ 4,471
    Short-term and current portion of long-term debt   53   148
    Progress collections and deferred income   5,672   5,542
    All other current liabilities   2,724   2,830
    Total current liabilities   12,991   12,991
    Long-term debt   5,970   5,872
    Liabilities for pensions and other postretirement benefits   988   978
    All other liabilities   1,359   1,585
    Equity   17,055   15,519
    Total liabilities and equity $ 38,363 $ 36,945
         
    Outstanding Baker Hughes Company shares:    
    Class A common stock   990   998
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months
    Ended
    December 31,    		 Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
    (In millions)   2024     2024     2023  
    Cash flows from operating activities:      
    Net income $ 1,190   $ 3,008   $ 1,970  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:      
    Depreciation and amortization   291     1,136     1,087  
    Benefit for deferred income taxes   (706 )   (671 )   (59 )
    Gain on equity securities   (196 )   (367 )   (555 )
    Stock-based compensation cost   49     202     197  
    Property, plant and equipment impairment, net   77     77     (1 )
    Gain on business dispositions   —     —     (40 )
    Working capital   63     7     42  
    Other operating items, net   421     (60 )   421  
    Net cash flows provided by operating activities   1,189     3,332     3,062  
    Cash flows from investing activities:      
    Expenditures for capital assets   (353 )   (1,278 )   (1,224 )
    Proceeds from disposal of assets   58     203     208  
    Proceeds from sale of equity securities   71     92     372  
    Proceeds from business dispositions   —     —     293  
    Net cash paid for acquisitions   —     —     (301 )
    Other investing items, net   6     (33 )   (165 )
    Net cash flows used in investing activities   (218 )   (1,016 )   (817 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:      
    Repayment of long-term debt   (9 )   (143 )   (651 )
    Dividends paid   (208 )   (836 )   (786 )
    Repurchase of Class A common stock   (9 )   (484 )   (538 )
    Other financing items, net   (8 )   (64 )   (53 )
    Net cash flows used in financing activities   (234 )   (1,527 )   (2,028 )
    Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents   (37 )   (71 )   (59 )
    Increase in cash and cash equivalents   700     718     158  
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   2,664     2,646     2,488  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 3,364   $ 3,364   $ 2,646  
    Supplemental cash flows disclosures:      
    Income taxes paid, net of refunds $ 307   $ 1,040   $ 595  
    Interest paid $ 99   $ 298   $ 309  
     

    Supplemental Financial Information

    Supplemental financial information can be found on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com in the Financial Information section under Quarterly Results.

    Conference Call and Webcast

    The Company has scheduled an investor conference call to discuss management’s outlook and the results reported in today’s earnings announcement. The call will begin at 9:30 a.m. Eastern time, 8:30 a.m. Central time on Friday, January 31, 2025, the content of which is not part of this earnings release. The conference call will be broadcast live via a webcast and can be accessed by visiting the Events and Presentations page on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com. An archived version of the webcast will be available on the website for one month following the webcast.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this release) may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (each a “forward-looking statement”). Forward-looking statements concern future circumstances and results and other statements that are not historical facts and are sometimes identified by the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “potential,” “intend,” “expect,” “would,” “seek,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “overestimate,” “underestimate,” “believe,” “could,” “project,” “predict,” “continue,” “target”, “goal” or other similar words or expressions. There are many risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are also affected by the risk factors described in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the annual period ended December 31,2024; and those set forth from time to time in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The documents are available through the Company’s website at: www.investors.bakerhughes.com or through the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering and Analysis Retrieval system at: www.sec.gov. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements.

    Our expectations regarding our business outlook and business plans; the business plans of our customers; oil and natural gas market conditions; cost and availability of resources; economic, legal and regulatory conditions, and other matters are only our forecasts regarding these matters.

    These forward-looking statements, including forecasts, may be substantially different from actual results, which are affected by many risks, along with the following risk factors and the timing of any of these risk factors:

    • Economic and political conditions – the impact of worldwide economic conditions and rising inflation; the impact of tariffs and the potential for significant increases thereto; the effect that declines in credit availability may have on worldwide economic growth and demand for hydrocarbons; foreign currency exchange fluctuations and changes in the capital markets in locations where we operate; and the impact of government disruptions and sanctions.
    • Orders and RPO – our ability to execute on orders and RPO in accordance with agreed specifications, terms and conditions and convert those orders and RPO to revenue and cash.
    • Oil and gas market conditions – the level of petroleum industry exploration, development and production expenditures; the price of, volatility in pricing of, and the demand for crude oil and natural gas; drilling activity; drilling permits for and regulation of the shelf and the deepwater drilling; excess productive capacity; crude and product inventories; liquefied natural gas supply and demand; seasonal and other adverse weather conditions that affect the demand for energy; severe weather conditions, such as tornadoes and hurricanes, that affect exploration and production activities; Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”) policy and the adherence by OPEC nations to their OPEC production quotas.
    • Terrorism and geopolitical risks – war, military action, terrorist activities or extended periods of international conflict, particularly involving any petroleum-producing or consuming regions, including Russia and Ukraine; and the recent conflict in the Middle East; labor disruptions, civil unrest or security conditions where we operate; potentially burdensome taxation, expropriation of assets by governmental action; cybersecurity risks and cyber incidents or attacks; epidemic outbreaks.

    About Baker Hughes:

    Baker Hughes (Nasdaq: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions for energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations

    Chase Mulvehill
    +1 346-297-2561
    investor.relations@bakerhughes.com

    Media Relations

    Adrienne Lynch
    +1 713-906-8407
    adrienne.lynch@bakerhughes.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz: Lee Zeldin Wrong Person To Lead EPA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    Published: 01.29.2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement after voting against Lee Zeldin’s nomination to be Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
    “In just the last week, Donald Trump banned wind energy and stopped federal funding for clean energy projects – actions that will create an energy shortage and raise people’s energy bills. Republicans aren’t trying to cut costs for people – they’re focused on helping their Big Oil friends make money. And the person who will be leading these efforts for the Trump Administration, including to roll back critical environmental protections, is Lee Zeldin. Climate change is happening, and it’s costing billions and billions of dollars, and more importantly, it’s costing lives. We need an EPA Administrator who is for climate action, not Lee Zeldin.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Where’s the “culture of yes” on climate ambition?

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party is calling on the Government to strengthen its just-announced 2030-2035 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement and address its woeful lack of commitment to climate security.

    “This new NDC is the closest thing the Government could do to breaking the Paris Agreement and walking away from our international climate commitments without actually doing it,” says the Green Party Co-Leader and Climate Change spokesperson, Chlöe Swarbrick. 

    “The expert, independent Climate Change Commission demonstrated how reductions of over 70 per cent are completely achievable, making it completely ridiculous for the Government to suggest that 51 per cent is the best we can do.

    “Where’s Christopher Luxon’s much-talked-about ambition and ‘culture of yes’ when it comes to protecting the climate necessary for life as we know it?

    “We have the plan, we have the tools, and we have the vision – it’s been laid out for everyone by the Climate Change Commission. All that’s missing is the political willpower. 

    “This Government loves to compare our ambition to other countries – but only when it suits them. The UK has just set a target of reducing their emissions 81 per cent by 2035. We can do the same, or even better.

    “Christopher Luxon has consistently told us all he’s committed to our climate targets and goals. The Paris Agreement requires all signatories to consistently ratchet up ambition. The rhetoric isn’t matching reality.

    “That reality of climate change is now impossible to ignore. Every decision this Government makes to keep fossil fuels on life support and delay the transition contributes to the growing frequency and intensity of climate change charged extreme weather, ultimately costing us all the more dearly.

    “This ‘culture of yes’ should be about saying ‘yes’ to a thriving future. ‘Yes’ to a liveable planet. ‘Yes’ to the kind of ambition that once upon a time made us world-leaders,” says Chlöe Swarbrick.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2 Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open This Week

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: 2 Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open This Week

    2 Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open This Week

    COLUMBIA, S.C. – Although the deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance has passed, the Disaster Recovery Centers in Chester and Greenwood counties remain open until Jan. 31. Chester County Gateway Conference Center, 3200 Commerce Drive, Suite A, Richburg, SC 29729Open Jan. 30-31, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.Greenwood CountyUnited Way of the Lakelands, 929 Phoenix St., Greenwood, SC 29646Open Jan. 30-31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. FEMA is encouraging South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene to visit these centers for in-person assistance as soon as possible. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.The quickest way to receive updates is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center, or use the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day, and the help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 
    martyce.allenjr
    Thu, 01/30/2025 – 19:17

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement – E-000276/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000276/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Erik Kaliňák (NI)

    On 20 January 2025, the newly elected President of the United States signed several executive orders, including one directing the US Ambassador to the UN to immediately submit formal written notification of the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

    As this is not a surprising step by President Trump, I would like to ask the Commission:

    • 1.Has an impact analysis been carried out on this move by the US, in particular as regards its impact on the EU’s so-called green policy and its significance?
    • 2.The logical response would be to rationalise and rebalance actions at EU level as well. Is the Commission prepared to reconsider the measures adopted under the Green Deal, particularly those which have a significant impact on the EU economy and the falling living standards of its citizens?

    Submitted: 22.1.2025

    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Start with Her: Championing Women’s Rights and Choices High-Level Panel on Reproductive, Maternal & Newborn Health & Wellbeing – Remarks by UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    Welcome, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, partners and colleagues,

    Thank you for being here and standing united with UNFPA in turbulent times.

    Maternal mortality is one of the most avoidable injustices in our societies and one of the most profound inequities of this generation.

    Childbirth is part of the fundamental rhythm of life. It should be an empowering and affirming experience, a celebration of life’s incredible promise.

    Yet for far too many women, the journey to motherhood is dangerous, even deadly. In the next two minutes, another woman will have died during pregnancy or childbirth. Let that sink in for a moment.

    A woman who could have lived – should have lived – will perish. A newborn will lose a mother they will never meet. A family and community will be shattered. A preventable tragedy will ripple through society as a whole.

    We are failing women during the most vulnerable and transformative moments of their lives. And we are failing some much more than others.

    More than two-thirds of maternal deaths occur in Africa.

    This means that an African woman with pregnancy and childbirth complications is 130 times more likely to die than a woman in Europe or North America. 

    This blatant inequality is unacceptable. And it’s why we gather here today. 

    We have seen what is possible when the international community galvanizes to save women’s lives.

    During the Millennium Development Goals era, from 2000 to 2015, global maternal mortality fell by 34 percent. 

    We made real progress. We were all hopeful.

    Then came a sobering reality check: Five years into the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), maternal mortality barely declined, if at all. 

    Today, we are dangerously off track in achieving the SDG target to reduce the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) to less than 70 per 100 000 live births.

    If the current pace persists, more than one million women will die during pregnancy and childbirth between now and 2030.

    We cannot simply stand by and let this happen. 

    For moral reasons, of course, and also for the health and prosperity of communities, entire countries and regions – for the future of sustainable development.

    Now is the time for decisive action, for investment in what works. 

    Tackling maternal and newborn deaths is no mystery: increase access to quality reproductive, maternal, and newborn healthcare; build resilient, integrated health systems; and strengthen the health workforce. 

    Investing in the health workforce means investing in women.

    Because let’s not forget who stands on the frontlines in every community – women, often midwives, the unsung heroes of healthcare. 

    They may be unsung, but they are not unseen.

    Midwives are embedded in every community, providing care with care to women like Aicha in Cameroon.

    When massive flooding engulfed her family’s farm, forcing them to flee, Aicha was nearing the end of her pregnancy and terrified for her baby and for herself. She was able to give birth with the assistance of a midwife deployed by UNFPA. 

    “My baby was born surrounded by care, when I had nothing – no money, no possessions,” she told us.

    Midwives are a source of steady support and can deliver 90 percent of all sexual and reproductive health services, including maternal and newborn care.

    Yet they remain undervalued and under-resourced. 

    Among the barriers to strengthening midwifery care are persistent gender norms that deprioritize women’s healthcare and that devalue the contributions of the world’s largely female midwifery workforce.

    As part of the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere partnership, UNFPA is working with partners, including the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), WHO and UNICEF, to close the gap of nearly one million midwives. 

    Every woman and newborn should have access to the life-saving care they need and deserve. With determination, investment and action, we can turn the tide.

    Today, change is in the air and that change starts with her.

    Start with Her is not just a slogan; it’s the driving force behind UNFPA’s new Reproductive, Maternal and Newborn Health and Well-Being Strategy, which outlines our approach to ending preventable maternal deaths.  

    It’s about championing women’s rights and choices and putting them front and center in everything we do. 

    This is a call to action to:

    • Prioritize and commit to the funds, financing and policies that protect reproductive, maternal and newborn health.
    • Strengthen health systems with investment in midwives, expanded coverage and improved quality of obstetric and newborn care.
    • Leverage data to drive impact and reach those furthest behind;
    • Empower women and girls to make informed decisions about their own bodies and futures.

    We want every woman and newborn to survive and thrive. This is our promise, and this is how we drive progress.

    With 2030 around the corner, this is how we can make an immediate and tangible impact, and create lasting change.

    There is no doubt that we face a challenging global landscape. 

    Protracted conflicts. Climate-induced disasters. Economic headwinds. Growing polarization. Needs are surging while resources and political will are under threat.

    Yet, we have also have a critical window of opportunity. 

    Last year, the 2024 World Health Assembly passed a resolution on maternal and child health championed by the government of Somalia.

    This year, the High-Level Political Forum will review SDG3 and the 58th Session of the Commission on Population and Development will focus on health for all.

    Meanwhile, President Ramaphosa of South Africa is currently chairing the Global Leaders Network for Women, Children, and Adolescent Health, which includes nine heads of State.

    All are vital platforms for Member States to reaffirm their commitment to reproductive and maternal health. 

    This is the moment to set aside differences and identify common ground. 

    Preserving the life and dignity of women and girls is surely something we can all agree on, regardless of politics or ideology. 

    No one wants women and babies to die in childbirth, or to have their futures derailed by substandard health services.

    Yet reducing maternal mortality requires political will. Governments hold the power to enact policies, allocate resources, and build stronger health systems. 

    We have the instruments at our disposal. What we need is a seismic shift towards investment that is aligned with the outcomes we all want to see. 

    With the wind in our sails, and with your partnership, UNFPA believes that we can and will bring meaningful change in the lives of women and girls everywhere.

    To our Member States here today, I ask you to prioritize reproductive, maternal and newborn health and set clear targets in line with the SDGs.

    Commit the resources and back them up with accountability systems.

    Together with all our partners, let’s strengthen health systems, empower women, and eliminate the inequities that are fueling this crisis.

    This is not the time to resign ourselves to the status quo. 

    There is a proverb: “The dripping water wears away the stone.”

    If we push forward steadily and with intention, we can overcome the obstacles in front of us and spark that sea change.

    Let us Start with Her and stand with her to increase her access to lifesaving healthcare, to respect and value her precious life, to support her safety and dignity, for her health and for the health and wellbeing of all.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: With robust and high end Common computing facility in place, India all set to launch its own safe & secure indigenous AI model at affordable cost soon: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Source: Government of India (2)

    With robust and high end Common computing facility in place, India all set to launch its own safe & secure indigenous AI model at affordable cost soon: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Compared to global models costing 2.5 to 3 dollars per hour usage, India’s AI Model will cost less than less than 100 rupees per hour after 40% government subsidy; Attractive half yearly & annual plans will make it more affordable

    Multiple foundational models for Indian context, in Indian languages, likely to be ready later this year will help researchers, students & people at large for its low cost, fast computing & prompt results.

    To begin with, 18 citizen centric applications pertaining to agriculture sector, learning disability & climate change to be part of this AI Model

    DeepSeek will get hosted on Indian servers after security protocol checks so that users, coders, developers can benefit from its Open Source Code

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 6:07PM by PIB Delhi

    India is all set to launch its own safe & secure indigenous AI model at an affordable cost. Union Minister for Electronics & Information Technology, Railways, Information & Broadcasting, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw today announced this in New Delhi at Electronics Niketan. Interacting with the media, the Union Minister said that the Indian AI model is a timely step as India is a trusted nation among the comity of nations & therefore it will help India emerge as a more reliable technological powerhouse of ethical AI solutions in the days to come. Backed by a high-end common computing facility, the India AI mission is now closer to customising indigenous AI solutions for the Indian context using Indian languages. He said that scientists, researchers, developers and coders are working on multiple foundational models in this regard & with the given pace, the Union Minister expressed hope that the Indian AI model is likely to be ready within 6 months.

     

    The AI model is beginning with the computation facility of roughly 10000 GPUs. Soon the remaining 8693 GPUs will be added. It will largely benefit researchers, students & developers in the beginning. The Technical partners who are participating in the mission have  expressed a lot of confidence in the ability of the mission to deliver its objective of democratising access to computing & that too at a very competitive rate. Government has decided to give it to the users for less than 100 rupees per GPU after subsidising the 40% of the cost. Compared to global models costing 2.5 to 3 dollars per hour usage, India’s AI Model will cost less than less than 100 rupees per hour after 40% government subsidy. The attractive half yearly & annual plans will further make it more affordable.

     

     

    Within 10 months of the launch of India AI Mission, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, is able to get an unprecedented response & create a high end & robust common computing facility of about 18,693 Graphic Processing Unit, GPUs ready for use. It is about nine times of what Open Source Model DeepSeek has & about two third of what ChatGPT has. Answering queries of the media, the Union Minister said that DeepSeek can get hosted on Indian servers after security checks so that coders, developers & designers can take benefit of its Open Source code.

    Safety and ethical deployment of AI Model remains top priority for the government. Expressing this commitment, the Union Minister announced that India is establishing an AI Safety Institute, adopting a techno-legal approach.

    The Key safety-related projects in this regard include following 8 simultaneous efforts to ensure the privacy of data along with ethical auditing of algorithmic efficiency.

    • Machine Unlearning (IIT Jodhpur)
    • Synthetic Data Generation (IIT Roorkee)
    • AI Bias Mitigation Strategy (NIT Raipur)
    • Explainable AI Framework (Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune & Minecraft Technologies)
    • Privacy Enhancing Strategies (IIT Delhi, IIIT Delhi, IIT Dharwad & Telecom Engineering Centre, TEC)
    • AI Ethical Certification Framework (Tool Nishpaksh being developed at IIIT Delhi & TEC)
    • AI Algorithm Auditing Framework (Tool Parakh being developed by Civic Data Labs )
    • AI Governance Testing Framework (Amrita Vidyapeetham & Telecom Engineering Centre)

     

    In addition, Watermarking and labeling, Deep fake detection tools, Real time identification and mitigation, AI risk management are five other projects AI Mission is running to make India’s AI model safe & secure from a privacy point of view. This initiative aims to benefit researchers, students, and the public with its low-cost, fast computing capabilities and its prompt results. The Indian AI Model will help promote innovation & develop citizen centric better governance tools including many industrial uses having humongous potential to harness technological benefits for the people at large.

    Common Compute Facility is the strong foundation for Democratic AI Development

    Under the India AI Mission, a huge computing infrastructure has been developed, surpassing global benchmarks in a short time. The facility now houses 18,693 GPUs, including 12,896 H100, 1,480 H200, and 7,200 MI 200 300 units, significantly exceeding the initial target of 10,000 GPUs. To put this capacity into perspective, DeepSeek was trained on 2,000 GPUs, while ChatGPT required 25,000 GPUs. This vast computing power will not only accelerate research, model training, help ethical AI algorithm development and foster innovation in India’s AI ecosystem.

    A common compute platform has been created, ensuring accessibility to all stakeholders. Approximately 10,000 GPUs are already available, and technical partners have expressed confidence in the mission’s capability to deliver world-class AI solutions. Following approval, this facility will soon be operational for widespread use.

    India’s Own AI Model: Built for Local Context

    Over the past one & half year, India has been developing a robust AI ecosystem framework to support its own foundational AI model. This model will address Indian linguistic and contextual needs while eliminating biases, ensuring inclusivity and promoting fairness. Leading developers and researchers are working towards completing multiple foundational models within 8 to 10 months, leveraging algorithmic efficiency to achieve cost-effective and timely development.

    Experts believe that India’s AI model will meet the country’s diverse requirements, bringing forth a high level of innovation tailored for Indian users.

    AI Applications to Benefit Citizens

    The India AI Mission focuses on developing AI applications in critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, weather forecasting, and disaster management. Eighteen applications have been identified in these domains to harness AI for societal benefits. The initiative will address challenges such as climate change, learning disabilities, and agritech solutions, ensuring AI contributes to the well-being of millions.

    Affordable Compute Facility for AI Development

    India’s Compute facility is being offered at highly competitive rates. The cost per GPU hour is approximately ₹115.85, significantly lower than the global benchmark of $2.5–$3 per hour. High-end computing will be available at ₹150 per hour, with a 40% government subsidy reducing the cost to less than ₹100 per hour for common Compute access. This affordability ensures democratized AI access, empowering startups and researchers alike.

    The initiative offers competitive six-month and annual compute rate packages. The facility has garnered international appreciation, including recognition at Davos, reinforcing India’s position as a trusted global AI hub.

    Future Roadmap and Sustainability

    The India AI Mission operates under a four-year sunset clause with long-term sustainability. As India advances in its semiconductor journey, the government is strategically developing its ecosystem with clarity and systematic planning. With over $30 billion invested in the semiconductor mission, India’s AI aspirations align with its broader technological vision.

    The Union Minister said that DeepSeek and other foundational models can be hosted on Indian servers, similar to previous initiatives like LLaMA. He added, AI’s real impact lies in industrial applications beyond chatbots and image generation, It will address real-world challenges such as:

    • Health of oil drilling rigs
    • Railway ticketing optimization
    • Soil health monitoring for agriculture
    • Weather and cyclone prediction

    The mission also emphasizes AI safety through real-time detection tools, deep-fake mitigation, and robust AI risk management strategies. Stanford ranks India among the top nations in AI education, with 240 universities offering AI courses and 100 universities equipped with 5G labs.

    With a focus on democratic, inclusivity, affordability, and innovation, India is set to emerge as a global AI powerhouse, shaping the future of artificial intelligence for societal and industrial advancements.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

    (Release ID: 2097659) Visitor Counter : 81

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding helps build resilient communities through stronger climate adaptation

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is administered through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), and funds projects that support local governments and First Nations to better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from hazards in a changing climate.

    Communities throughout British Columbia will receive more than $19 million from the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund as follows.

    Funding is divided into three categories:

    • Category 1 (C1): Foundational activities (risk mapping, risk assessments, planning)
    • Category 2 (C2): Non-structural activities (land-use planning, community education, purchase of eligible equipment)
    • Category 3 (C3): Small-scale structural activities

    Canal Flats – C3: Phase 1 dike improvement project
    Amount: $400,000

    Clearwater – C2: Improvements for stormwater management
    Amount: $138,000

    Comox Valley Regional District – C2: Extreme-weather equipment
    Regional partners: Comox, Courtenay, Cumberland, K’ómoks First Nation
    Amount: $100,000

    Coquitlam – C1: Disaster-risk reduction planning
    Amount: $150,000

    Cranbrook – C3: Gold Creek dam replacement
    Amount: $5 million

    Creston – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $150,000

    Delta – C1: Mason drainage pump station design
    Amount: $150,000

    Fraser-Fort George Regional District – C1: Regional heat and drought threat assessment/mapping; C2: Partner engagement to improve hazard-resilient development
    Regional partners: Prince George, McBride, Mackenzie, Valemount, Lheidli-T’enneh First Nation, McLeod Lake Indian Band
    Amount: $716,876

    Hope – C1: Hazard identification and risk mapping
    Amount: $150,000

    Invermere – C3: Toby Dike upgrades
    Amount: $810,000

    Kamloops – C1: Watershed climate change adaptation planning
    Amount: $150,000

    Keremeos – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability analysis
    Amount: $49,800

    Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation – C1: Climate adaptation planning
    Amount: $77,200

    Kwikwetlem First Nation – C1: Flood-mitigation project design
    Amount: $145,190

    Lake Country – C1: Climate change hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $150,000

    Lower Similkameen Indian Band – C1: Hazard risk and vulnerability planning
    Amount: $49,800

    Lumby – C1: Lumby industrial area dike planning
    Amount: $150,000

    Merritt – C2: Bulk bags for flood response; C3: Voght Street overland water pumping station
    Amount: $4.8 million

    Nelson – C1: Community preparation for extreme temperatures
    Amount: $95,280.00

    Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District – C2: Tiger Dam trailers for emergency flood response
    Regional Partners: Osoyoos, Keremeos, Lower Similkameen Indian Band
    Amount: $600,000

    Oliver – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $50,000

    Osoyoos – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $49,150

    Osoyoos Indian Band – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment
    Amount: $50,000

    Peace River Regional District – C1: Hazard assessment, mapping and risk management
    Regional Partners: Blueberry River First Nations, Chetwynd, Dawson Creek, Doig River First Nation, Pouce Coupe, Tumbler Ridge, Hudson’s Hope, Saulteau First Nations, Taylor, Halfway River First Nation, West Moberly First Nations
    Amount: $1.35 million

    Pemberton – C1: Arn Canal pumping station design
    Amount: $60,000

    Richmond – C2: Flood protection and rain gauge monitoring stations
    Amount: $150,000

    Sema:th First Nation (Sumas) – C3: Floodwater conveyance project
    Amount: $195,440

    Skeetchestn Indian Band – C1: Flood-mitigation planning
    Amount: $89,500

    Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) – C1: Assessment for tree planting to reduce extreme-heat hazards
    Amount: $148,722

    SnPink’tn (Penticton Indian Band) – C1: Hazard, risk and vulnerability planning
    Amount: $60,650

    Sooke – C1: Climate adaptation and natural hazard-risk assessment
    Amount: 150,000

    Strathcona Regional District – C1: Port McNeill climate change infrastructure impact assessment; Gold River Road to Tsa’xana Road slope stability assessment; C2 Tsunami and flood-mitigation public information and education; C3: Cortes Kw’as Park and Road flood mitigation
    Regional partners: Mount Waddington Regional District, Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation, Nuchatlaht First Nation, Port McNeill, Tahsis, Zeballos
    Amount: $354,960

    Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek) – C1: Extreme-weather planning
    Amount: $105,000

    Tlowitsis Nation – C1: Risk mapping, assessment and planning; C2: sub-regional road map, public engagement and workshops
    Amount: $296,700

    Vancouver – C1: Streets network seismic and flooding risk assessment – Phase 1; C2: Extreme-weather mitigation equipment
    Amount: $300,000

    Vanderhoof – C3: Riverbank erosion mitigation
    Amount: $59,410

    West Kelowna – C1: Pike and Capri roads diking design
    Amount: $150,000

    Whispering Pines/Clinton Indian Band – C1: Heat-impact mitigation planning
    Amount: $36,700

    Xwémalhkwu (Homalco) – C1: Wetland restoration design; C2: Public education project; C3: Willow Creek watershed resilience, culvert replacement
    Amount: $1.54 million

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Central India’s indigenous forests are falling victim to bullets and bulldozers

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Bulbul Prakash, PhD Candidate in Politics, University of Manchester

    The state of Chhattisgarh in India’s tribal heartland has been the epicentre of a violent conflict for more than 30 years. This struggle has pit a Maoist-inspired group called the Naxalites, who are fighting for the rights of marginalised tribal communities, against the Indian government, which has deployed security forces to suppress the insurgency. More than 11,600 people have been killed in the conflict since 2000.

    At the same time, Chhattisgarh is also grappling with the pressures of rapid industrialisation. Large-scale mining and infrastructure projects are threatening both the land and livelihoods of the state’s indigenous (or Adivasi in Sanskrit) communities.

    Around 44% of the region’s land area is covered by dense forests. These forests are home to vital plant and animal species such as Mahua and Sal trees. However, these forests are being damaged. Trees are being ravaged by gunfire, animals are being killed by explosions, and the fragile ecosystem that sustains people and wildlife in Chhattisgarh is gradually crumbling.

    Soni Sori, an Adivasi activist, has shared images with me that have been taken by Adivasis in the forests of Chhattisgarh. The photos highlight the damage being caused by gunfire, explosions and shelling.

    Bullets tear through bark, while explosions strip it away, leaving trees vulnerable to pests and disease. Shrapnel and shock waves from blasts also sever branches or trunks, which further weakens the trees and causes long-term damage.

    Fresh bullet wounds on a Sal tree in Chhattisgarh.
    Soni Sori, CC BY-NC-ND

    The destruction of Mahua and Sal trees has had a particularly devastating impact on women from Adivasi communities.

    The Mahua tree, which is often called the “tree of life” by locals, provides an essential lifeline for many Adivasi women. Its flowers are fermented to make alcohol, which offers a crucial source of income when it is sold in local markets.

    When men are drawn into Naxal movements or caught in the state’s counterinsurgency efforts, women often step in and use the income from Mahua flowers and oil to fund their children’s education, sustain their families, and repay debts.

    In the town of Dantewada in southern Chhattisgarh, locals even hold a special ceremony where they “marry” the Mahua tree, honouring its life-sustaining role in their community.

    Sal trees, which form much of Chhattisgarh’s forest cover, play a crucial role in stabilising the soil. Their loss leads to erosion and increases the risk of floods and landslides. Climate change, and the increasingly erratic rainfall it brings, has compounded these risks.

    An unexploded mortar shell partially buried in Chhattisgarh.
    Soni Sori, CC BY-NC-ND

    The loss of essential resources like Mahua trees will only exacerbate food insecurity and economic hardship, pushing Adivasis further into poverty. The average annual income of Adivasi households in Chhattisgarh was just ₹53,610 (around £505) in 2022 – well below the national agricultural household average of ₹122,616.

    The conflict in Chhattisgarh is also harming the region’s wildlife. In December, a female sloth bear was killed by an improvised explosive device planted by Maoist rebels in the forests of Dantewada. The bear’s two orphaned cubs starved to death shortly after.

    This was the first recorded death of a wild animal from such an explosion in Bastar district, though livestock and pets have been victims of similar blasts in the past.

    One month earlier, in central Chhattisgarh’s Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, a five-year-old elephant calf sustained critical injuries from a suspected bomb explosion. These incidents reflect a disturbing pattern within the conflict, where wildlife is becoming a victim of the violence.

    March of industrialisation

    Industrialisation has exacerbated these challenges. Chhattisgarh is rich in mineral resources. Between 2023 and 2024, the state produced nearly 50 million tonnes of limestone, 44 million tonnes of iron ore, and over 1 million tonnes of bauxite. However, widespread mining is fuelling further deforestation and environmental degradation.

    Between 2001 and 2023, the state lost 53,500 hectares of forest, with large-scale mining operations contributing significantly to the loss. In the Hasdeo region of northern Chhattisgarh, the Parsa East Kete Basen coal mine has led to the felling of almost 82,000 trees, spread across two phases of mining. Between 2012 and 2018, 50,000 trees were felled, with more than 31,800 more trees cut down since then.

    With continued political support for mineral extraction, government approvals, and the involvement of commercial mining giants, more deforestation is expected over the coming years.

    This deforestation is, unsurprisingly, harming the region’s wildlife. The latest census by the National Tiger Conservation Authority, which was carried out in 2022, revealed a sharp and alarming decline in Chhattisgarh’s tiger population.

    At that time, there were only 17 tigers remaining in the state – a dramatic fall from 46 in 2014. Conservationists fear that the figure could now be even lower, as the situation continues to deteriorate.

    This decline is largely due to habitat destruction. But it has probably been made worse by the Maoist insurgency in regions such as northern Chhattisgarh, which is home to the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, as well as the Indravati Tiger Reserve in the south-western part of the state.

    The insurgency has hindered conservation efforts. The use of explosives in the forests disrupts the behaviour of tigers, while also making it more difficult for conservationists to monitor and protect them.

    What was once a lush and bio-diverse environment is rapidly becoming a wasteland. But the loss of these trees and wildlife in Chhattisgarh represents more than simply the depletion of natural resources. It symbolises the erosion of culture, identity, and a way of life for Chhattisgarh’s Indigenous people.

    Bulbul Prakash is supported by The University of Manchester through the ‘Future of the Academy Studentship’ for her doctoral research. The author would like to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of Adivasi activist Soni Sori, who shared firsthand images taken by Adivasi community members in the forests of Chhattisgarh, which illustrate the environmental damage caused by ongoing conflict.

    – ref. Central India’s indigenous forests are falling victim to bullets and bulldozers – https://theconversation.com/central-indias-indigenous-forests-are-falling-victim-to-bullets-and-bulldozers-246272

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Most of Britain’s peat bogs could stop forming new peat as the climate changes – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Ritson, Research Fellow, Geography, University of Manchester

    Joe Dunckley / shutterstock

    By the 2080s, climate change will mean most of Britain’s peatlands could be too dry to form new peat. That’s the stark warning from a new academic study my colleagues and I just published in the Journal of Applied Ecology.

    Peat bogs are found in areas where there is lots of rain but poor drainage. These vital ecosystems are relied upon to deliver drinking water, host rare plant and bird life and to mitigate the risk of floods by slowing rainwater as it heads downstream.

    Perhaps most importantly, peatlands also sequester huge amounts of carbon. That’s because peat is made of the remnants of plants accumulated over hundreds or thousands of years. Waterlogged conditions mean the plants don’t fully decompose, so the carbon they’re made of is kept in the ground and isn’t released into the atmosphere. Peat can be several metres deep so all that plant matter adds up – per square metre, a typical British peat bog stores far more carbon than a tropical rainforest.

    As peat needs very wet conditions to form, our study first mapped out the temperature and rainfall conditions under which this has occurred in the UK in the past. We then took the Met Office’s UK climate projections and looked at where these conditions would continue to occur by the 2080s. The results were, quite frankly, shocking.

    Although small pockets of favourable conditions may still be present in Wales, and larger ones in Scotland, the outlook for England is dismal, with barely any areas continuing to be suitable for peat formation due to increasing temperatures and lower summer rainfall.

    UK peatlands. The large red patch at the top of mainland Scotland is the Flow Country.
    James Hutton Institute / Biogeochemistry

    In the “Flow Country” of northern Scotland, a bog so big it has been designated a Unesco world heritage site, the area in which we might expect peatlands to thrive is likely to be reduced by at least 50% even in the best-case climate scenario. This scenario of mild warming is, unfortunately, unlikely to happen. More extreme scenarios of peatland degradation are increasingly realistic.

    We still don’t know exactly what this will mean for the peatlands in places like Exmoor or Dartmoor in southern England, however we do know that life will become more and more challenging for these precious ecosystems. Not experiencing the temperature and rainfall that caused peat formation in the first place could mean they start to emit the carbon currently stored, as this is reliant on them staying wet and boggy.

    Peatlands are naturally resilient and aren’t going to disappear overnight (the Peak District in northern England was heavily degraded for over a century, yet still hosts many metres of peat soils). But conservation and restoration work is going to be ever more necessary if we are to preserve these landscapes as carbon sinks rather than sources.

    More money for conservation

    One ray of light in all this is that the challenging conditions in England could actually unlock more money for conservation efforts. The UK Peatland Code is a climate finance initiative that allows landowners to generate income from peatland restoration by selling carbon credits. The number of credits they can claim is based on the difference in avoided emissions from a “do nothing” scenario in which they do no restoration.

    Our new results show that doing nothing could be even worse than previously thought, meaning more carbon finance may be unlocked. Perversely, bad news for England’s peatlands could bring about the money needed to save them.

    Thankfully, through measures such as the government’s Nature for Climate scheme and ongoing investment in fundamental peatland science, the UK has something of a head start in peatland restoration. Techniques that were once trialled in small areas are now being rolled out across whole landscapes.

    Gully blocking to raise peatland water tables and limit carbon loss, as part of the GGR-Peat project at the National Trust High Peak Estate.
    Jonathan Ritson

    The Great North Bog initiative, as one example, has linked together restoration organisations, researchers and landowners to deliver restoration across four national parks and three national landscapes. This is truly the scale that is needed if the UK is serious about meeting its climate targets.

    More will be required, however, as huge swathes of peatland remain in a degraded state. While bleak messages like those in our new study could lead to resignation about the effects of climate change, there is an alternative way of looking at it: we must show how bad things could get if we don’t do anything, and then see this as a call to action.

    Jonathan Ritson has received funding from charities delivering peatland restoration.

    – ref. Most of Britain’s peat bogs could stop forming new peat as the climate changes – new study – https://theconversation.com/most-of-britains-peat-bogs-could-stop-forming-new-peat-as-the-climate-changes-new-study-248515

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New mobility hub underway in Chaddesden

    Source: City of Derby

    Work to create the city’s second sustainable transport hub is underway, giving residents greater choice when deciding how to travel around their local community.

    Following the success of the Six Streets mobility hub which was launched in March 2023, work has started at Nottingham Road in Chaddesden, next to the busy shopping precinct.

    Mobility hubs make it easier for people to choose alternative ways to get to local amenities. These include sustainable travel, such as electric vehicles (EV) and car share clubs, or active travel like walking and cycling. The hubs are continually monitored which helps the Council learn more about the area’s transport needs and demand for the different elements of the hub

    The Chaddesden mobility hub will be home to:

    • Additional Enterprise Car Club vehicles
    • Electric Vehicle (EV) charging and dedicated EV parking
    • An interactive information totem with live travel updates
    • A new bench and planter to enhance biodiversity
    • A covered cycle shelter with space to store ten bicycles and a permanent bicycle pump.

    Work to create the mobility hub will also enhance the look and feel of the area through the planting of additional trees and the relining of the car park. The western end of the precinct will also be resurfaced with new flexible porous surfacing to replace damage caused by existing trees. The new surfacing will have resistance to movement caused by root growth.

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability said:

    We’ve been working hard to give our communities greater choice when deciding how to travel around the city.

    These mobility hubs have been in development for some time so it’s exciting to see work get underway in Chaddesden. We’ve taken the time to learn from previous schemes and listen to local residents and businesses and are confident that this hub will become a welcome addition to the Chaddesden community, further enhancing our ever-growing network of active and sustainable travel choices.

    The Chaddesden mobility hub is due to be completed in April 2025. A third mobility hub is also in the works to benefit residents of Normanton and Arboretum on Grove Street. Work on this hub will begin in the Spring.

    The mobility hubs are funded by the Department for Transport (DFT)’s Future Transport Zones Fund, which was awarded to Derby City Council to trial new and exciting developments in transport.

    Residents who would like to know more about the mobility hubs can get in touch with the Future Transport Zones team by emailing traffic.management@derby.gov.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. helps fruit growers prepare for extreme weather

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    New funding is available to help tree-fruit growers prepare their orchards for extreme weather so people can continue to enjoy the B.C. peaches, cherries and apples that so many farming families and communities depend on.

    “Last summer, British Columbians saw almost no local cherries available and missed out on having delicious Okanagan peaches to enjoy,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “We know these climate impacts will continue, which is why we’re helping growers with a new program so their crops and businesses become more resilient in the face of increasingly challenging growing conditions.”

    The new $5-million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency program will help fund things such as protective covers, energy-efficient heaters and wind machines to help during periods of extreme cold, as well as canopy sprinklers and shade protection to help ward off the effects of extreme heat. The program also is open to applications for innovative projects to support industry resiliency.

    “The Okanagan is home to B.C.’s iconic tree-fruit sector and through my conversations with growers, I know how hard it has been for them to deal with the effects of extreme heat and extreme cold,” said Harwinder Sandhu, parliamentary secretary for agriculture and MLA for Vernon-Lumby. “Climate change is a real challenge for our farming communities and this new program will help growers with projects and equipment that support their farms’ profitability, resiliency and sustainable food production for the years ahead.”

    Multiple growers may also jointly apply for a project that benefits more than one producer, such as a wind machine that could be used on multiple properties.

    “As one of B.C.’s largest cherry producers, we are seeing an increasingly volatile climate stretching the ability of growers to adapt,” said David Geen, CEO of Jealous Fruits Ltd. “Climate mitigation strategies, such as frost-control materials, installation of wind machines, and researching and developing hardier genetics and varieties can all contribute to a more stable cherry industry. It is great that the B.C. government is listening to grower concerns and providing funding for these industry endeavours.” 

    The program was developed with input from the B.C.Fruit Growers Association and the B.C. Cherry Association. The program was announced in August 2024 as one part of government’s efforts to help tree-fruit growers through challenges faced by their industry.

    “We greatly appreciate the B.C. government’s commitment to supporting tree-fruit growers with the new $5-million Tree Fruit Climate Resiliency program. This funding is a significant step toward helping us prepare our orchards for the challenges posed by extreme weather, ensuring that families and communities can continue to enjoy our locally grown peaches, cherries, and apples,” said Deep Brar, vice-president, B.C. Fruit Growers’ Association, and a tree-fruit grower. “The climate has been exceptionally tough on our growers for the past few years, with devastating impacts from heat domes and cold snaps. We look forward to working closely with the government and other stakeholders to ensure the tree fruit industry in British Columbia remains strong and sustainable for generations to come.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The $5-million program will provide 80% cost-share funding for eligible projects up to a maximum of $100,000 per farm business.
    • Applications are being accepted and will continue until funds are fully committed.
    • Ministry of Agriculture and Food staff are available to answer questions regarding eligible activities, costs and/or the application process.
    • Applicants can contact AgriServiceBC@gov.bc.ca with questions about the program or to receive support in developing their applications.
    • The program builds on the extreme-weather-preparedness program and offers specific support to tree-fruit producers following several years of extreme weather that severely affected peach, pear, plum, cherry and apple producers.

    Learn More:

    Program and application information are available here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/programs/tree-fruit-climate-resiliency-program

    Additional support for B.C. Fruit growers was announced in August: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024AF0035-001295

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Expert Forum for Producers and Users of Climate Change-related Statistics 2024

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The 2024 UNECE Expert Forum took place from 29 to 30 August in Geneva. The UNECE Expert Fora for Producers and Users of Climate Change-Related Statistics have been organized annually since 2014 to serve as a platform for collaboration, sharing ideas and experience, discussing concepts and measurement issues, and identifying areas for developing practical guidance.

    The Expert Fora provide a link between producers and users of climate information and support the implementation of the CES Recommendations on Climate Change-Related Statistics (2014) and the CES Set of Core Climate Change-related Indicators and Statistics Using the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (2020). 

    See also:

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Ninth Joint OECD-UNECE Seminar on SEEA Implementation

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    Report PDF
    Programme  PDF
    Get to know the speakers PDF
    Concept note PDF
    Link to the Guidelines for Measuring Circular Economy  
    Session 1: Opening & Setting the Scene 
    		  
    Updates on related work from OECD PDF
    London Group on Environmental Accounting Update PDF
    SEEA-related activities in Asia and the Pacific, ESCAP PDF
    Relevant outcomes from UN Statistical Commission, and work of UNCEEA PDF
    Online inventory of thematic and extended accounts, UNECE PDF
    Session 2: Utilising SEEA for Measuring Circular Economy
    		  
    2a: Introduction, information needs, existing measurement frameworks and their links with SEEA
    		  
    The concept of a Circular Economy and the most important measurement points, University of Exeter PDF
    Circular Economy in EU policy, European Commission, DG Environment PDF
    CES Guidelines for Measuring Circular Economy, Finland PDF
    Circular material use rate indicator: how it is calculated, results and interpretation, Eurostat PDF
    2e: Waste Accounts for measuring circularity
    The difficulty of finding circularity in solid waste accounts, Luxembourg PDF
    Limitations of SEEA waste accounts: conceptual, data collection and experiences from policy use, Australia PDF
    Experimental study: Using waste accounts for measuring plastic flows in the EU economy, Eurostat PDF
    2c: New developments and utilising EGSS for measuring jobs, goods and services related to circular-economy
     
    Conceptual framework pillar “socio-economic opportunities of a circular economy”: main indicators, UNECE PDF
    Updating of related classifications-Classification of environmental purposes (CEP), Eurostat PDF
    Using EGSS data for measuring circular economy, France     PDF
    Comparison of EGSS and structural business statistics data on measuring circular economy, Finland PDF
    2d: Measuring flows of biomass and bio-based material in a circular economy
     
    The concept of a Circular Economy and some key agenda for biological materials, University of Exeter PDF
    The sustainable and circular bioeconomy in the EU, European Commission PDF
    Costa Rica: Use of environmental accounts for policy making on circular economy and bioeconomy PDF
    Measuring stocks in the urban mine to monitor circular economy with SEEA, The Netherlands PDF
    2b: Utilising SEEA for measuring physical flows of plastics
    		  
    Policy development and the development of a statistical guideline on measuring flows of plastic along the lifecycle, UNEP PDF
    Measuring plastic flows with Plastic-KEYs, UNITAR PDF
    What statistics tell us about international trade of plastics? UNCTAD PDF
    Statistics Canada’s Physical Flow Account for Plastic Material PDF
    The use of SEEA – material flow accounts for deriving circular economy indicators, North Macedonia PDF
    Session 3: Informing climate-change-adaptation and response policies with SEEA
    		  
    3a: Introduction, information needs, existing measurement frameworks and their links with SEEA
    Climate change adaptation policies and SEEA-related information demands, OECD PDF
    Disaster-related statistics and the linkages to SEEA, ESCAP PDF
    Role of NSOs in Achieving National Climate Objectives, UNECE PDF
    3b: Climate change expenditures 
     
    Update on the revision of the Classification of Functions of Government (COFOG), UNSD PDF
    An integrated Approach to the classification of public environmental expenditure, OECD PDF
    G20 Data Gaps Initiative, IMF PDF
    Climate mitigation investments, The Netherlands PDF
    Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Expenditures in the Economy: Towards an Operational Definition, United States PDF
    Environmental expenditures account and its application in the Republic of Kazakhstan

    ENG

    RUS
    3c: Measuring ecosystem condition, degradation and loss of ecosystem services
     
    Ecosystem services accounts: from the operational platform (INCA) to their economic bridging (LISBETH), Joint Research Centre  PDF
    The role of the SEEA in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), UNSD PDF
    Ecosystem condition accounting in Statistics Lithuania PDF
    Working with blue carbon ecosystem accounts: value of coastal ecosystems in alleviating impacts of climate change, Australia PDF
    Implementation of Environmental Accounts in Ukraine – results and challenges. Estimation of damages caused by war PDF
    Session 4: Conclusions & Recommendations
    		  
    Draft conclusions and recommendations  PDF

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First public servants and aid workers honoured with new Humanitarian Medal.

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The first recipients of a new medal recognising humanitarian aid work on behalf of the United Kingdom are being recognised.

    The first recipients of a new medal recognising humanitarian aid work on behalf of the United Kingdom are being recognised today.

    Announced in July 2023, the Humanitarian Medal is a new national form of recognition awarded to public servants and members of organisations contributing to global humanitarian responses on behalf of HM Government.

    Those being recognised today include individuals who displayed exemplary public service and humanitarian efforts in HM Government’s response to the 2023 Morocco Earthquake, the 2023 Libya Flooding, and the Gaza conflict.

    With the establishment of the Humanitarian Medal, HM Government departments now make recommendations for eligible Humanitarian responses to the Committee on the Grant of Honours, Decorations and Medals. Those responses recommended for Humanitarian Medal awards are then submitted for approval to His Majesty The King.

    Among the first recipients working as part of the eligible responses are:

    • Morocco: UK-ISAR Operations Commander for Morocco Response, from West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service, Shyam Rana, from Sutton Coldfield – A member of the UK International Search and Rescue team (UK ISAR). He was deployed in the search to reach people under collapsed buildings. ISAR has specialist equipment to monitor further seismic activity and cut through cement. Aftershocks remained a risk throughout the deployment.

    • Libya: UK-EMT Team Lead Anna Daniell, from Greater Manchester – Led the official UK Emergency Medical Team (EMT) into Derna, Libya in the wake of the dam collapse who were providing direct primary healthcare support to the affected population in areas outside of Government control.

    • Gaza: UK-Med Medical Coordinator Melanie (Mel) Johnson, from Totterdown, Bristol – Led the medical team in Gaza providing surgical, primary, and community healthcare support during intense conflict in the FCDO-funded field hospital and rehabilitated Nasser Hospital. 

    Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden said: 

    All of the individuals being recognised today are shining examples of public service. Their selfless dedication to saving lives represents the very best of British values around the world. The nation thanks them for their work.

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:

    This new medal recognises the incredible dedication and selfless service of individuals on the frontline of the UK’s responses to some of the world’s most devastating crises.

    I am delighted the first tranche of awards will recognise members of the UK government’s emergency deployment teams, for their brave work in Libya, Morocco and Gaza. The International Search and Rescue team and Emergency Medical Team are made up of expert firefighters and medics from across the UK, who travel to the most challenging of environments to save lives.

    The medal, which is conferred by His Majesty The King, features on the reverse laurel wreaths symbolising victory in overcoming a crisis, interwoven with a banner proclaiming “For humanitarian service”. The obverse bears an effigy of His Majesty The King. 

    The ribbon design reflects the different paths for humanitarian service and the variety of services involved in such responses. The ribbon has a central stripe of white to represent civilians and peace, with four narrow stripes on either side of red, light blue, dark blue and purple. Red represents humanitarian organisations. Dark blue and purple represent the other services.

    The design on the reverse was approved by Her Late Majesty The Queen in 2021.

    These responses are the first use of the Humanitarian Medal. This is only the first tranche of awards to be made, and more will follow in due course.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Urges Georgians to Apply for Assistance Despite Concerns About Homeowners’ Insurance

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    f you were affected by Tropical Storm Debby (Aug. 4—20, 2024) or Hurricane Helene (Sept. 24—Oct. 30, 2024) and have an active insurance policy, state and FEMA officials urge you to check with both your insurance company and FEMA to help you on your road to recovery. 
    You do not need to have insurance to qualify for FEMA assistance and should not wait to submit your FEMA application. While FEMA assistance can only help with losses not covered by insurance, the assistance may help provide additional coverage for losses caused by Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene.
    If you do have an active insurance policy, you are urged to apply with FEMA because you may be eligible for disaster assistance for basic home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-caused expenses that insurance didn’t cover. While you do not have to file an insurance claim before applying for FEMA disaster assistance, you will be required to provide FEMA with documentation regarding your insurance settlement or denial of your claim before being considered for certain types of assistance. Also, if your insurance benefits are delayed, FEMA can provide assistance to meet your immediate needs.
    While some survivors are likely concerned about the impact filing a claim may have on increasing their premiums, people affected by either or both of the storms should talk with their insurance agent to understand their deductible and associated out-of-pocket expenses to determine whether it makes sense to file a claim. 
    In many instances, damage may fall below the policy deductible or otherwise not be covered by the policy. Insurance companies are encouraged to provide documentation necessary for their customers to apply for FEMA assistance for uncovered losses.
    If you feel your insurance settlement is insufficient to cover the damage, you may be able to use the free Disaster Legal Assistance to help appeal your claim with your insurance. Georgia residents can use this service to receive confidential, free legal assistance due to the disasters, who do not have the money to hire adequate legal services. If you are interested in receiving this legal assistance, call the toll-free legal hotline at 866-584-8027 or 404-527-8793.
    If you are in one of the 63 affected counties designated for Individual Assistance, you are eligible to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. You can also contact the Georgia Call Center at 678-547-2861 Monday through Saturday for assistance with your application.
    To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.
    For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia. Follow FEMA Region 4 @FEMARegion4 on X or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton on X @FEMA_Cam.
    ###
    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How satellites and AI help fight wildfires today

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By John W. Daily, Research Professor in Thermo Fluid Sciences, University of Colorado Boulder

    The wind and terrain can quickly change how a fire, like this one near Los Angeles in January 2025, behaves. AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez

    As wind-driven wildfires spread through the Los Angeles area in January 2025, fire-spotting technology and computer models were helping firefighters understand the rapidly changing environment they were facing.

    That technology has evolved over the years, yet some techniques are very similar to those used over 100 years ago.

    I have spent several decades studying combustion, including wildfire behavior and the technology used to track fires and predict where wildfires might turn. Here’s a quick tour of the key technologies used today.

    Spotting fires faster

    First, the fire must be discovered.

    Often wildfires are reported by people seeing smoke. That hasn’t changed, but other ways fires are spotted have evolved.

    In the early part of the 20th century, the newly established U.S. Forest Service built fire lookout towers around the country. The towers were topped by cabins with windows on all four walls and provided living space for the fire lookouts. The system was motivated by the Great Fire of 1910 that burned 3 million acres in Washington, Idaho and Montana and killed 87 people.

    Before satellites, fire crews watched for smoke from fire towers across the national forests.
    K. D. Swan, U.S. Forest Service

    Today, cameras watch over many high-risk areas. California has more than 1,100 cameras watching for signs of smoke. Artificial intelligence systems continuously analyze the images to provide data for firefighters to quickly respond. AI is a way to train a computer program to recognize repetitive patterns: smoke plumes in the case of fire.

    NOAA satellites paired with AI data analysis also generate alerts but over a wider area. They can detect heat signatures, map fire perimeters and burned areas, and track smoke and pollutants to assess air quality and health risks.

    Forecasting fire behavior

    Once a fire is spotted, one immediate task for firefighting teams is to estimate how the fire is going to behave so they can deploy their limited firefighting resources most effectively.

    Fire managers have seen many fires and have a sense of the risks their regions face. Today, they also have computer simulations that combine data about the terrain, the materials burning and the weather to help predict how a fire is likely to spread.

    Fuel models

    Fuel models are based on the ecosystem involved, using fire history and laboratory testing. In Southern California, for example, much of the wildland fuel is chaparral, a type of shrubland with dense, rocky soil and highly flammable plants in a Mediterranean climate. Chaparral is one of the fastest-burning fuel types, and fires can spread quickly in that terrain.

    For human-made structures, things are a bit more complex. The materials a house is made of – if it has wood siding, for example – and the environment around it, such as how close it is to trees or wooden fences, play an important role in how likely it is to burn and how it burns.

    How scientists study fire behavior in a lab.

    Weather and terrain

    Terrain is also important because it influences local winds and because fire tends to run faster uphill than down. Terrain data is well known thanks to satellite imagery and can easily be incorporated into computer codes.

    Weather plays another critical role in fire behavior. Fires need oxygen to burn, and the windier it is, the more oxygen is available to the fire. High winds also tend to generate embers from burning vegetation that can be blown up to 5 miles in the highest winds, starting spot fires that can quickly spread.

    Today, large computer simulations can forecast the weather. There are global models that cover the entire Earth and local models that cover smaller areas but with better resolution that provides greater detail.

    Both provide real-time data on the weather for creating fire behavior simulations.

    Modeling how flames spread

    Flame-spread models can then estimate the likely movement of a fire.

    Scientists build these models by studying past fires and conducting laboratory experiments, combined with mathematical models that incorporate the physics of fire. With local terrain, fuel and real-time weather information, these simulations can help fire managers predict a fire’s likely behavior.

    Examples of how computer modeling can forecast a fire’s spread. American Physical Society.

    Advanced modeling can account for fuel details such as ground-level plant growth and tree canopies, including amount of cover, tree height and tree density. These models can estimate when a fire will reach the tree canopy and how that will affect the fire’s spread.

    Forecasting helps, but wind can change fast

    All these tools are made available to firefighters in computer applications and can help fire crews as they respond to wildfires.

    However, wind can rapidly change speed or direction, and new fires can start in unexpected places, meaning fire managers know they have to be prepared for many possible outcomes – not just the likely outcomes they see on their computer screens.

    Ultimately, during a fire, firefighting strategy is based on human judgment informed by experience, as well as science and technology.

    John W. Daily receives funding from the Department of Defense for wildland fire research. He is affiliated with the Combustion Institute and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. He is a Fellow of both organizations.

    – ref. How satellites and AI help fight wildfires today – https://theconversation.com/how-satellites-and-ai-help-fight-wildfires-today-248420

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gross Domestic Product, 4th Quarter and Year 2024 (Advance Estimate)

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Real gross domestic product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 2.3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024 (October, November, and December), according to the advance estimate released by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. In the third quarter, real GDP increased 3.1 percent.

    The increase in real GDP in the fourth quarter primarily reflected increases in consumer spending and government spending that were partly offset by a decrease in investment. Imports, which are a subtraction in the calculation of GDP, decreased. For more information, refer to the “Technical Notes” below.

    Compared to the third quarter, the deceleration in real GDP in the fourth quarter primarily reflected downturns in investment and exports. Imports turned down.

    The price index for gross domestic purchases increased 2.2 percent in the fourth quarter, compared with an increase of 1.9 percent in the third quarter. The personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index increased 2.3 percent, compared with an increase of 1.5 percent. Excluding food and energy prices, the PCE price index increased 2.5 percent, compared with an increase of 2.2 percent.

    Real GDP and Related Measures
    (Percent change from preceding quarter)
    Real GDP 2.3
    Current-dollar GDP 4.5
    Gross domestic purchases price index 2.2
    PCE price index 2.3
    PCE price index excluding food and energy 2.5

    GDP for 2024

    Real GDP increased 2.8 percent in 2024 (from the 2023 annual level to the 2024 annual level), compared with an increase of 2.9 percent in 2023. The increase in real GDP in 2024 reflected increases in consumer spending, investment, government spending, and exports. Imports increased.

    The price index for gross domestic purchases increased 2.3 percent in 2024, compared with an increase of 3.3 percent in 2023. The PCE price index increased 2.5 percent, compared with an increase of 3.8 percent. Excluding food and energy prices, the PCE price index increased 2.8 percent, compared with an increase of 4.1 percent.

    Next release: February 27, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EST
    Gross Domestic Product, 4th Quarter and Year 2024 (Second Estimate)

    For definitions, statistical conventions, updates to GDP, and more, visit “Additional Information.”

    Technical Notes

    Sources of change for real GDP

    Real GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.3 percent (0.6 percent at a quarterly rate1), primarily reflecting increases in both consumer and government spending. Imports, which are a subtraction in the calculation of GDP, decreased.

    • The increase in consumer spending reflected increases in both services and goods. Within services, the leading contributor to the increase was health care. Within goods, the leading contributors to the increase were recreational goods and vehicles as well as motor vehicles and parts.
      • Within health care, hospital and nursing home services (notably hospital services) and outpatient services increased, based primarily on Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Current Employment Statistics (CES) employment, earnings, and hours data.
      • The increase in recreational goods and vehicles was led by information processing equipment, based on Census Bureau Monthly Retail Trade Survey data.
      • The increase in motor vehicles and parts was led by new light trucks, based primarily on unit sales data from Wards Intelligence.
    • The increase in government spending reflected increases in state and local as well as federal government spending.
      • Within state and local government spending, the increase was led by compensation of employees, based primarily on employment data from the BLS CES.
      • Within federal government spending, the increase was led by defense consumption expenditures, based primarily on Monthly Treasury Statement data.

    More information on the source data and BEA assumptions that underlie the fourth-quarter estimate is shown in the key source data and assumptions table.

    Impact of Hurricane Milton on fourth-quarter 2024 estimates

    Hurricane Milton made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane just south of Tampa Bay, Florida, on October 9, 2024, bringing damage from high winds, including significant tornado activity, and extensive inland flooding. 

    This disaster disrupted usual consumer and business activities and prompted emergency services and remediation activities. The responses to this disaster are included, but not separately identified, in the source data that BEA uses to prepare the estimates of GDP; consequently, it is not possible to estimate the overall impact of Hurricane Milton on fourth-quarter GDP. The destruction of fixed assets, such as residential and nonresidential structures, does not directly affect GDP or personal income. BEA estimates of disaster losses are presented in NIPA table 5.1, “Saving and Investment.” BEA’s preliminary estimates show that Hurricane Milton resulted in losses of $27.0 billion in privately owned fixed assets ($108.0 billion at an annual rate) and $3.0 billion in state and local government-owned fixed assets ($12.0 billion at an annual rate).

    For additional information, refer to “How are the measures of production and income in the national accounts affected by a disaster?” and “How are the fixed assets accounts (FAAs) and consumption of fixed capital (CFC) impacted by disasters?”

    1. Percent changes in quarterly seasonally adjusted series are displayed at annual rates, unless otherwise specified. For more information, refer to the FAQ Why does BEA publish percent changes in quarterly series at annual rates?. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Italy and WFP partner with the Government of Iraq to strengthen community resilience and women empowerment for green opportunities in Iraq

    Source: World Food Programme

    BAGHDAD – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed a generous contribution from the Italian Government through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) to strengthen community resilience and empower women through green opportunities, to address the challenges climate change poses to agriculture and food security in Iraq.

    WFP will work together with the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Environment to empower local communities in food security and climate action decisions. WFP will also provide capacity building and technical expertise to local government authorities, helping them implement sustainable farming and livelihood solutions that can withstand climate challenges. 

    This project takes an innovative approach to support vulnerable women-led households, crisis-affected people, and smallholder farmers. It aims to help communities become more adaptable and resilient to climate change shocks by promoting inclusive coordination, active participation, and income-generating activities with a focus on empowering women, youth, and persons with disabilities. The project will be implemented in Ninewa, Salah al-Din, Thi-Qar, and Basra.

    Iraq’s agricultural sector is one of the main sources of income for vulnerable populations and the second-largest contributor to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) after oil revenues. More frequent droughts and continued water scarcity are increasing challenges to farmers who face reduced crop yields and loss of arable land, leading to an overall decline of agriculture in Iraq. 

    “Iraq, ‘the land of two rivers,’ faces a serious problem with water scarcity, desertification, rising temperatures and other climate impacts that heavily affect its agriculture and, in turn, its food security. WFP is committed to working with the Government of Iraq to support local governments and communities in developing scalable and sustainable climate-smart solutions that not only address those issues, but enable the people to adapt and overcome them,” said WFP Representative and Country Director Mageed Yahia. “To build long-term resilience, it is essential to involve all members of the community—especially women, people with disabilities, and other marginalized groups—in decision-making processes that support food security and sustainable livelihoods.”

    WFP will partner with the Government of Iraq, academia and a number of Italian experts to provide technical solutions, equipment and expertise, fostering innovative ecosystems that draw from the extensive experience on providing technical capacity building to public institutions and national organizations.

    Collaboration with the private sector and academia will help drive innovative and sustainable solutions to empower women in agriculture. This includes improving food production, processing, storage, and distribution, as well as promoting responsible farming practices, diverse income opportunities, and reducing waste. The project also focuses on the connection between agriculture, energy, and the environment to create lasting change. 

    “Climate change poses significant risks to Iraq’s agricultural sector, threatening livelihoods and food security all over the Country, and especially for women-led households” highlighted H.E. Niccolò Fontana, Ambassador of Italy to Iraq. “Various regions across Iraq face the harsh realities of water scarcity, land degradation, and rising temperatures. This project directly addresses these challenges by promoting green skills and expanding the private sector workforce, enhancing agricultural value chains, supporting women’s entrepreneurship in climate-resilient sectors. Italy is proud to commit to fostering a green transition that will benefit not only the environment, but also the population, empowering their communities and nurturing sustainability.”

    WFP will continue working with the Government of Iraq to support communities affected by climate change by aligning its project implementation with the Government’s priorities, particularly focusing on the addressing unemployment, improving water management in irrigation to drive up production and empower women to seek and maintain sustainable livelihoods. 

    #                           #                         #

    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_Iraq @wfp_mena @wfpgovts

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release-Additional Debris Trap Installed in Ala Wai Canal in Advance of Severe Weather, Jan. 29, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release-Additional Debris Trap Installed in Ala Wai Canal in Advance of Severe Weather, Jan. 29, 2025

    Posted on Jan 29, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ʻOIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    DAWN CHANG

    CHAIR

     

    ADDITIONAL DEBRIS TRAP INSTALLED IN ALA WAI CANAL IN ADVANCE OF SEVERE WEATHER

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    January 29, 2025

    HONOLULU – Installation of a temporary debris boom in advance of incoming severe weather was completed this afternoon by Hawaiian Dredging Co., on contract to the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR).

    Working with the state Dept. of Transportation (HDOT), the City and County of Honolulu, and Senator Sharon Moriwaki, this second debris trap is intended to divert any rubbish flowing down the canal into the permanent trap on the opposite side of the Ala Moana Bridge.

    Meghan Statts, administrator of the DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR), along with Dickey Lee from the DLNR Engineering Division, observed the deployment of the floating curtain (boom). Statts said, “We are trying to mitigate some of the debris coming down the canal with the big storm that’s predicted to hit us shortly.”

    The trap will augment the work being done upstream by HDOT. “HDOT has been a great partner,” said Statts. “They were up here earlier, yesterday and today, doing cleanup.”

    Statts said the issue of post-storm debris in the Ala Wai canal has been discussed for more than 30 years. DLNR is working closely with other agencies and Senator Moriwaki to create a long-term solution to the chronic, reccurring problem.

    The permanent DOBOR trap was cleared yesterday and only catches 20-25% of what flows downstream. It was fortified this morning with the expectation that additional debris diverted by the second trap will possibly fill it faster than normal.

    “We’re trying to catch as much as we can to help protect our natural resources and keep it out of the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor and the ocean,” Statts explained. Unfortunately, over the years tons of debris have flowed out into the Pacific unchecked, she said.

    That creates potential navigational problems for boaters and recreational users of the Ala Wai canal, the small boat harbor and the ocean. When full of natural vegetation and manmade rubbish, the canal is also unsafe for people during storm runoff events.

    The Hawai‘i Department of Health advises the public to stay out of waters when they appear brown, murky, or contain visible debris, especially following storms or heavy rain when the water may contain higher-than-normal pollutant levels. Entering freshwater streams, canals or ponds increases the risk of bacterial infections, including leptospirosis.

    Statts concluded that when the Ala Wai canal was built as a flood control measure, people probably didn’t think much about the consequences of storm debris. She encourages people not to  throw trash into the canal or any of its tributary streams.

    “I think people need to remember that if you have trash, any kind of ‘ōpala, throw it away properly. Don’t drop it into streams or the canal because much of this stuff ends up in the ocean.”

    # # #

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

    HD video – Debris trap deployment (Jan. 29, 2025):

    (Meghan Statts SOTS transcript attached)

    HD video – Ala Wai debris trap clearing (Jan. 28, 2925):

    Photographs – Debris trap deployment (Jan. 29, 2025):

    (Images 5722-5809)

    Photographs – Ala Wai debris trap clearing (Jan. 28, 2025):

    (Images 5667-5715)

    For more information on brown water pollution and health:

    Media contact:

    Dan Dennison

    Communications Director

    Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    Phone: 808-587-0396

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Dave Cantin Group Signs PGA Tour Professional Quade Cummins as Its First Athlete Ambassador

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Dave Cantin Group (DCG), a leading advisor to retail automotive groups and their owners, today announced its partnership with PGA Tour professional Quade Cummins, marking the company’s first venture into athlete sponsorship. Cummins, born into the automotive industry as the son of a dealership family, embodies the drive, preparation and determination that DCG champions in its mission to serve its retail automotive clients.

    Quade is a native of Weatherford, Oklahoma, and the son of Chad and Stacy Cummins, owners of the Cummins Auto Group, a trio of domestic automotive dealerships in Oklahoma. Growing up, Quade spent his early years splitting time between the dealership and the golf course, but quickly realized he had a future in the sport his grandfather taught him. Quade attended the University of Oklahoma, where he was the first four-time All American in the program’s history.

    “Quade’s background makes him a perfect fit for Dave Cantin Group’s first athlete ambassador,” said Dave Cantin, President and CEO of Dave Cantin Group. “Quade’s journey from his family’s dealership to the PGA Tour reflects the same commitment and vision that we bring to our clients in the automotive industry. His story resonates deeply with us, and we are honored to support him on his journey as a Tour professional.”

    Quade transitions this year from the Korn Ferry Tour to the PGA Tour after finishing with enough points in 2024 to earn his Tour card. That achievement is a testament to his tenacity and determined pursuit of excellence, a quality mirrored in DCG’s approach to its M&A advisory services.

    “Being part of the DCG team is an incredible opportunity,” Cummins said. “The automotive industry has been a big part of my life, and it’s exciting to partner with a company that understands where I came from and shares my values. I’m looking forward to representing DCG on and off the course as I continue my PGA Tour journey.”

    “The entire automotive industry should be rooting for Quade and we’re just happy to help raise awareness of who he is, and how special his story is,” DCG Chief Business and Strategy Officer Brian Gordon said. “He is one of us and should feel his whole extended automotive family behind him on every shot.”

    About Dave Cantin Group

    The Dave Cantin Group is a leading automotive mergers and acquisitions advisory company specializing in acquisitions, divestitures, intelligence, and other advisory services. The company is the M&A services provider of choice for North America’s top automotive dealership groups, advising on approximately 40 transactions annually, DCG is differentiated by its advisory approach, long-term lens on client relationships, and commitment to market intelligence tools that inform DCG and client strategies. In 2023, DCG became the only retail automotive M&A company with a significant strategic investor, welcoming Kaltroco to the DCG family.

    Through its M&A intelligence division, DCG produces automotive content and delivers relevant, timely marketing intelligence, including the automotive industry Market Outlook Report (MOR). Together with CBT News, DCG produces the Inside M&A studio show and podcast to share stories, news and trends impacting the retail automotive industry. DCG’s proprietary AI-enabled software, Jump IQ, anchors its advisory services that support retail automotive dealers in developing informed M&A strategies and making smarter M&A decisions.

    The company’s nonprofit initiative, DCG Giving, funds child and adolescent cancer research and treatment in communities nationwide and other worthy charitable initiatives. DCG team members regularly feature on the industry speaking circuit and are regularly cited by top national and global news outlets. For more information, please visit davecantingroup.com.

    Media Contact:

    Katie Merx
    katiemerx@gmail.com
    313.510.5090

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/141f7b76-fb6a-4a10-bd7e-65c61fc77d53

    A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/23a49777-1b1a-44ac-9734-ae8529cfc450

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxyle raises $16m to lead the fight against the “forever chemicals” contaminating our water

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Zurich, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — When Fajer Mushtaq turned on the tap as a child in Delhi, one question always loomed: was the water safe? Today, that same question haunts communities worldwide as PFAS — toxic “forever chemicals” used in everything from non-stick pans to firefighting foam — contaminate water supplies at an alarming rate. Today, Swiss startup Oxyle announced a $16m funding round to scale its breakthrough solution to destroy, not just relocate, PFAS from wastewater. This builds on its $3M pre-seed round in 2022, growing support for its mission. 

    The seed round was led by 360 Capital, with participation from Axeleo Capital and returning investors Founderful and SOSV. 

    Oxyle founders: Dr. Silvan Staufert and Dr. Fajer Musthaq (CREDIT: Daniel Kunz, daniekunzphoto, Adliswil, Switzerland)

    Industries have long struggled with PFAS treatment. Current methods like filtration and adsorption merely move PFAS from water to other waste streams, requiring expensive incineration or landfilling that risks these chemicals leaching back into the environment through air or soil – creating an endless cycle of contamination. While some technologies can destroy PFAS, their massive energy requirements make them financially impractical for most organizations to implement at scale.

    Oxyle’s breakthrough technology represents the world’s first economical and permanent solution to PFAS contamination. Unlike traditional methods that merely filter or concentrate these chemicals, Oxyle’s system destroys PFAS molecules, achieving over 99% elimination rates while consuming at least 15 times less energy than alternative destruction methods. The system’s three-stage process combines foam fractionation, catalytic destruction, and real-time monitoring powered by machine learning – all housed in a modular system that eliminates the need for secondary waste disposal through incineration or landfilling. Whereas traditional solutions require weeks-long lab analysis, Oxyle’s proprietary monitoring system provides instant feedback and continuous treatment optimization.

    Oxyle pilot unit on a customer site (CREDIT: Oxyle). 

    “Five years ago, Oxyle was two of us founders and one big idea: get rid of forever chemicals from our water. Today, that idea is proven, implemented, and ready to scale. This funding is a game-changer. It gives us what we need to take our technology to the industries and communities that need it most. To our investors, old and new, thank you for joining us on this mission to make clean water a reality for all.” commented Dr. Fajer Mushtaq, CEO & Co-Founder, Oxyle.

    The company was co-founded by Fajer Mushtaq and Silvan Staufert at ETH Zurich, where Mushtaq earned her PhD in Micro- and Nanosystems focused on water remediation – inspired by her experiences with water scarcity in Delhi – while Staufert completed his PhD in Mechanical and Process Engineering. Understanding that water treatment innovations couldn’t come soon enough, they developed a technology to degrade Forever Chemicals in minutes. They knew their breakthrough could change the world, but only if it moved from lab to reality.

    Oxyle Team (CREDIT Daniel Kunz, daniekunzphoto, Adliswil, Switzerland).

    In just four years, the duo have transformed Oxyle from innovation to implementation. The company has grown to a team of 26, completed over 20 customer projects, and secured prestigious recognition including the Swiss Technology Award, SEIF, and WEF’s Uplink Top Innovators. This round brings Oxyle’s total funding to $26m, including additional non-dilutive funding from grants and awards. With revenue-generating customer pilots under its belt and its first commercial installation operational, Oxyle is now securing multiple-year treatment contracts for 2025 and beyond.

    The technology’s effectiveness has been proven across multiple applications. In groundwater treatment, it reduces PFAS concentrations from 8,700 ng/l to below 14 ng/l. For soil wash water, it achieves 99.8% removal of 11 different PFAS species. It eliminated 98% of short-chain PFAS and reduced trifluoracetic acid (TFA) concentrations by 96% in trials with an industrial customer. Most significantly, in November 2024, Oxyle deployed its first full-scale system in Switzerland, treating 10 cubic meters of contaminated groundwater per hour at less than 1 kWh/m³.

    “We are proud to lead the investment in Oxyle, whose pioneering technology addresses the massive global challenge of PFAS pollution,” says Thomas Nivard, Partner at 360 Capital. “Unlike traditional methods that merely contain these harmful chemicals, Oxyle’s solution destroys them permanently, setting a new standard for tackling this urgent environmental crisis. This is a game changer. The team’s exceptional commercial and technical momentum has laid a strong foundation for establishing a true technology leader in the coming years.”

    The timing for Oxyle’s solution is critical. Rising waves of PFAS-related lawsuits and multi-billion-dollar settlements in the U.S. are pushing companies to adopt preventative solutions. Stricter regulations in both the EU and U.S. are increasing demand for advanced treatment technologies that can ensure compliance and minimize liability. New data from the Forever Lobbying Project shows the cost of inaction is staggering—cleaning up Europe’s soil and water from PFAS contamination could cost €100 billion per year, totaling €2 trillion over the next 20 years.

    Looking ahead, Oxyle aims to treat 100 million cubic meters of contaminated water in the next five years. The company plans to expand its solution across industries, from chemical and consumer goods manufacturing to semiconductor production and municipal water treatment – ultimately restoring and protecting our waters from Forever Chemicals, down to the very last drop.

    Ends 

    Notes to the editor
    Media images can be found here.

    About Oxyle
    Oxyle is the world’s first economical, sustainable, and permanent answer to PFAS contamination. Our breakthrough PFAS catalytic destruction technology empowers industrial and environmental remediation companies in their fight against PFAS. We don’t just filter or adsorb PFAS, we eliminate it entirely to below detection limits. With 15x lower average energy consumption than other destructive treatments, it is the most energy efficient, cost effective treatment on the market. Established in 2020, we’re on a mission to protect our water from PFAS – down to the last drop.

    About 360 Capital
    360 Capital is a leading European venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments across Deep Tech, Climate Tech, and Digital-First solutions. Since 1997, it has partnered with visionary entrepreneurs across Europe, supporting over 160 startups. With €500 million in assets under management, a portfolio of more than 60 active companies, and offices in Paris and Milan, 360 Capital is a prominent force in Europe’s venture ecosystem

    Founderful
    Founderful is Switzerland’s leading pre-seed fund, backing founder teams building tech companies with the potential to become global market leaders. Founderful has a track record of supporting exceptional founders in creating breakthrough companies and has the passionate conviction that the Swiss startup ecosystem is just starting to write its best success stories.

    SOSV
    SOSV is a multi-stage, deep tech venture investor committed  to “human and planetary health,” and invests beginning at a startup’s inception, the “First Check in Deep Tech®.”  Headquartered in Princeton, NJ, SOSV operates the deeply resourced startup development programs in New York City and San Francisco (IndieBio) and Newark, NJ (HAX) equipped with labs for bio-safety, chem, food, EE, analytics and mechatronics.  The SOSV ecosystem spans the globe, with 800+ startups operating in 40 countries.

    Axeleo Capital 
    Axeleo Capital (AXC) is an Emerging independent early-stage VC, trusted and backed by seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts across Europe, focusing on B2B software and Greentech startups. With €300 million in assets under management, 4 successful fund raises so far and 13 employees, the firm has made over 70 investments across the EU, and has achieved 18 successful exits within the past 36 months. AXC provides a unique framework for European early-stage startups. It offers a comprehensive range of support, including equity investments from seed to Series B stages, operational guidance and strategic assistance. The firm boasts an active ecosystem of more than 150 high-level partners, sector experts and mentors who have been instrumental in numerous success stories across Europe and the US. Axeleo Greentech Industry I aims to foster green innovation and sustainable development in Europe, with a focus on energy, chemicals, agriculture, and mobility sectors

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Climate Minister in Brussels to kickstart growth in the North Seas

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Climate Minister forges stronger UK-EU cooperation to drive growth and energy security.

    • Closer UK-EU cooperation in the North Seas to deliver growth and greater energy security
    • new independent report shows economic benefits of working with EU on clean energy
    • collaboration with European partners on the clean energy transition will help to drive government’s Plan for Change, protecting bills and creating thousands of jobs

    Cooperation on the North Seas was at the top of the agenda for Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy’s first visit to Brussels yesterday (Tuesday 28 January). 

    During the visit, Minister McCarthy delivered a keynote speech to European leaders at the European Energy Forum, where she said that by working together the UK and the EU can turn the North Seas into the green power plant of Europe and unlock thousands of well-paid, skilled British jobs. 

    This comes as independent consultants Grant Thornton publish a report commissioned by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, which finds that closer cooperation on the clean energy transition in the North Seas could lower bills, create up to 51,000 jobs, and add up to £36 billion to the UK economy.  

    Minister McCarthy also made the case to EU counterparts that the energy transition in the North Seas will ensure the oil and gas workforce are the ones who deliver the North Sea’s decarbonised future, through offshore wind, carbon capture and storage and hydrogen.  

    Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy said:

    The EU is a crucial ally in bolstering our energy security and protecting families and businesses across Europe from volatile fossil fuel markets.  

    There is so much more we can do to speed up the clean energy transition, deliver our Plan for Change and make the North Seas the green power plant of Europe. 

    Through greater cooperation, we can build on our Mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower by 2030 helping keep bills down and kickstarting economic growth. 

    Tsvetelina Penkova President of the European Energy Forum and Member of the European Parliament said: 

    We simply have to build a robust cooperation between the EU and the UK on energy matters. It is crucial for addressing our shared challenges and ensuring energy security.  

    Key areas such as energy grids, connectivity and nuclear power require close collaboration to strengthen infrastructure, drive innovation, and support the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy systems. By working together, we can create a more resilient and interconnected energy network that benefits both parties and contributes to a secure and sustainable energy future. 

    Minister McCarthy has met with a series of international partners including Belgian Energy Minister, Tinne van der Straeten and the European Union’s Principal Adviser on Energy Diplomacy, Tibor Stelaczky.  

    The visit comes as the UK continues work to reset its relationship with Europe, an ambition grounded in a new spirit of co-operation intended to strengthen ties, tackle barriers to trade and collaborate in the face of shared global challenges from climate change to illegal migration.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How close are quantum computers to being really useful? Podcast

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Gemma Ware, Host, The Conversation Weekly Podcast, The Conversation

    Audio und verbung/Shutterstock

    Quantum computers have the potential to solve big scientific problems that are beyond the reach of today’s most powerful supercomputers, such as discovering new antibiotics or developing new materials.

    But to achieve these breakthroughs, quantum computers will need to perform better than today’s best classical computers at solving real-world problems. And they’re not quite there yet. So what is still holding quantum computing back from becoming useful?

    In this episode of The Conversation Weekly podcast, we speak to quantum computing expert Daniel Lidar at the University of Southern California in the US about what problems scientists are still wrestling with when it comes to scaling up quantum computing, and how close they are to overcoming them.

    Quantum computers harness the power of quantum mechanics, the laws that govern subatomic particles. Instead of the classical bits of information used by microchips inside traditional computers, which are either a 0 or a 1, the chips in quantum computers use qubits, which can be both 0 and 1 at the same time or anywhere in between. Daniel Lidar explains:

    “Put a lot of these qubits together and all of a sudden you have a computer that can simultaneously represent many, many different possibilities …  and that is the starting point for the speed up that we can get from quantum computing.”

    Faulty qubits

    One of the biggest problems scientist face is how to scale up quantum computing power. Qubits are notoriously prone to errors – which means that they can quickly revert to being either a 0 or a 1, and so lose their advantage over classical computers.

    Scientists have focused on trying to solve these errors through the concept of redundancy – linking strings of physical qubits together into what’s called a “logical qubit” to try and maximise the number of steps in a computation. And, little by little, they’re getting there.

    In December 2024, Google announced that its new quantum chip, Willow, had demonstrated what’s called “beyond breakeven”, when its logical qubits worked better than the constituent parts and even kept on improving as it scaled up.

    Lidar says right now the development of this technology is happening very fast:

    “For quantum computing to scale and to take off is going to still take some real science breakthroughs, some real engineering breakthroughs, and probably overcoming some yet unforeseen surprises before we get to the point of true quantum utility. With that caution in mind, I think it’s still very fair to say that we are going to see truly functional, practical quantum computers kicking into gear, helping us solve real-life problems, within the next decade or so.”

    Listen to Lidar explain more about how quantum computers and quantum error correction works on The Conversation Weekly podcast.

    This episode of The Conversation Weekly was written and produced by Gemma Ware with assistance from Katie Flood and Mend Mariwany. Sound design was by Michelle Macklem, and theme music by Neeta Sarl.

    Clips in this episode from Google Quantum AI and 10 Hours Channel.

    You can find us on Instagram at theconversationdotcom or via e-mail. You can also subscribe to The Conversation’s free daily e-mail here.

    Listen to The Conversation Weekly via any of the apps listed above, download it directly via our RSS feed or find out how else to listen here.

    Daniel Lidar receives funding from the NSF, DARPA, ARO, and DOE.

    – ref. How close are quantum computers to being really useful? Podcast – https://theconversation.com/how-close-are-quantum-computers-to-being-really-useful-podcast-248574

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –