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Category: Weather

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 19th Eco Expo Asia opens today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    19th Eco Expo Asia opens today (with photos)
    19th Eco Expo Asia opens today (with photos)
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         The 19th Eco Expo Asia is being held at AsiaWorld-Expo from today (October 30) to November 2. The theme of the Expo this year is “Fostering Green Innovations for Carbon Neutrality”. About 190 officials from around 40 official delegations from various cities and provinces in Mainland China, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Belt and Road countries have been invited, bringing together international exhibitors, industry professionals to showcase cutting-edge green solutions, exchange views and share experiences.      Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, said, “Eco Expo Asia is a golden opportunity for us to discuss and advance our shared commitments to a sustainable future. Green innovation solutions are of paramount importance in our decarbonisation journey. During the Expo, we will see the latest innovations and technologies around the world in new energy, climate adaptation and other environmental areas.”      Mr Tse remarked that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The documentary series “Enchanting China” was produced by the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) and the Environmental Protection Department, in collaboration with the Center for Environmental Education and Communications of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment. “Beautiful Hong Kong” was produced by the EEB. The two documetaries showcase the contributions and achievements made by the country and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government in environmental protection and nature conservation. An extract of “Enchanting China” and “Picturesque Bays of Hong Kong”, the first episode of “Beautiful Hong Kong”, was shown at the opening ceremony.      Mr Tse stressed that although Hong Kong’s carbon emissions peaked in 2014, and compared to the peak carbon emissions today have been reduced by about a quarter already, achieving carbon neutrality in Hong Kong by 2050 is still a significant challenge. The HKSAR Government is boosting the promotion of green low-carbon transformation and the development of new energy, new productive forces and green scientific research industries through multiple measures, leading Hong Kong towards carbon neutrality.      The Secretary of the Leading Party Members Group of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Sun Jinlong, was invited to give a keynote speech at the opening ceremony. The Expo’s feature event, the Eco Asia Conference, is being held from today to November 1. In the Government Session, the Deputy Secretary General of the National Development and Reform Commission of the People’s Republic of China and the Director of the Department of National Economy, Mr Yuan Da, and the Director-General of the Department of Energy Conservation and Resources Comprehensive Utilization of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Wang Peng, introduced the latest environmental policies of the Mainland. In addition, the Vice Minister of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr Phouvong Luangxaysana; the General Manager of Saudi Arabia’s Corporate Communications and Media of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Mr Saleh Abdulmohsen S Bindakhil; the Permanent Secretary of Myanmar’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, Mr Hla Maung Thein; the Director of Brunei’s Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation of the Ministry of Development, Ms Hajah Martinah binti Haji Tamit; and the Deputy Director General of the Vietnam Institute of Meteorology, Hydrology and Climate Change, Dr Le Ngoc Cau, shared their countries’ latest environmental and conservation policies.      The Conference will once again feature the Hydrogen Economy Forum, allowing Hong Kong to capitalise on the environmental and economic opportunities brought by the global development of hydrogen energy, helping Hong Kong to achieve carbon neutrality, developing new quality productive forces, and maintaining international competitiveness.     The EEB continued to participate in the Expo this year by setting up four exhibition zones, namely: “Smart Technology”, “Energy-saving and Green Buildings”, “Community Waste Reduction”, and “Green Transportation”, highlighting the HKSAR Government’s various measures and achievements in decarbonisation. The “Smart Technology” zone introduces high-tech applications in daily environmental protection work, including artificial intelligence (AI) environmental air disturbance detection mechanical dogs, 5G mesh network sampling robot teams, AI coastal cleaning monitoring systems, and AI construction noise recognition systems; the “Energy-saving and Green Buildings” zone covers the sustainable development of an online platform for electromechanical innovation and regional cooling systems; the “Community Waste Reduction” zone introduces smart recycling; and the “Green Transportation” zone highlights Hong Kong’s latest development of hydrogen energy and displays the first hydrogen-powered street-washing vehicle in Hong Kong. To tie in with the “Strategy of Hydrogen Development in Hong Kong” announced by the EEB this year, visitors can try riding on the hydrogen fuel cell double-deckers on the second day (October 31) and the fourth day (November 2) of the Expo.      The Expo is jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, and co-organised by the EEB. In addition, 10 government bureaux/departments, namely the Architectural Services Department, the Civil Engineering and Development Department, the Drainage Services Department, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, the Fire Services Department, the Highways Department, the Hong Kong Observatory, the Housing Department, the Transport Department, and the Water Supplies Department are participating in the exhibition to introduce their initiatives in environmental protection and achieving carbon neutrality for Hong Kong.      Eco Expo Asia will open to the public for free on the last day of the event (November 2) to encourage citizens to participate in environmental protection and promote green living.      For details, please refer to the Eco Expo Asia’s website (www.hktdc.com/event/ecoexpoasia/en).

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 20:05

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ADB approves $500M loan for Pakistan to support climate resilience

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said Tuesday it has approved 500 million U.S. dollars in policy-based loan to support climate and disaster resilience efforts in Pakistan, said a statement.

    The bank’s Pakistan office said that the Climate and Disaster Resilience Enhancement Program will strengthen Pakistan’s institutional capacity for planning, preparedness, and response.

    According to the bank, the program will increase inclusive investment in disaster risk reduction and climate resilience and support the scale-up of disaster risk financing using a risk-layered approach.

    The ADB added that Pakistan ranks among the most vulnerable countries to climate change and disasters, with average losses from disaster events exceeding 2 billion U.S. dollars annually.

    “This program builds on the ADB’s long-standing work in Pakistan to understand and reduce climate and disaster risks and support effective disaster response,” said ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov.

    The bank added that the program aims to strengthen disaster resilience in Pakistan by advancing disaster risk mapping and modeling to guide development and investment decisions.

    The program would further support a solidarity fund to promote risk transfer solutions, including agricultural insurance, and will implement shock-responsive social protections to provide cash assistance to those affected by future disasters, added the bank.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Biographical note

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Michael Callan becomes High Commissioner in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Mr. Callan replaces Arif Keshani.

    Michael Callan (BA Hons [Political Studies], Queen’s University, 2000; MSc Econ [International Security], University of Wales, Aberystwyth, 2002). Prior to joining Global Affairs Canada, Michael Callan served in the Canadian Armed Forces and worked with the Aga Khan Foundation in Bangladesh and the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Moscow. Upon joining the Canadian International Development Agency in 2004, Mr. Callan took on assignments with the Humanitarian Assistance Division and the Afghanistan Task Force. Abroad, Mr. Callan was the Government of Canada’s first civilian deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan, where he served as director, development, for Canada’s Provincial Reconstruction Team (2005 to 2006). His subsequent deployments included assignments as head of aid in Khartoum (2008 to 2010) and director, development, for the Middle East and North Africa in Cairo and Amman (2012 to 2016). He was then seconded to the Privy Council Office (2016 to 2017) before taking up a fellowship with the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University (2018). Mr. Callan served as director of conflict prevention, stabilization and peacebuilding (2019 to 2021) prior to his most recent assignment as ambassador to Algeria (2021 to 2024).

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Time to freak out? How the existential terror of hurricanes can fuel climate change denial

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jamie Goldenberg, Professor of Psychology and Area Director, Cognitive, Neuroscience and Social Psychology, University of South Florida

    Hurricane Milton flooded parts of the Tampa Bay region just days after Hurricane Helene made landfall nearby. Bryan R. Smithy/AFP via Getty Images

    As TVs across Florida broadcast the all-too-familiar images of a powerful hurricane headed for the coast in early October 2024, people whose homes had been damaged less than two weeks earlier by Hurricane Helene watched anxiously. Hurricane Milton was rapidly intensifying into a dangerous storm, fueled by the Gulf of Mexico’s record-breaking temperatures.

    Many residents scrambled to evacuate, clogging roads away from the region. Officials urged those near the coast who ignored evacuation warnings to scrawl their names on their arms with indelible ink so their corpses could be identified.

    The two hurricanes were among the most destructive in recent memory. They are also stark reminders of the increasingly extreme weather events that scientists have long warned would be the consequence of human-driven climate change.

    Still, many people deny that climate change is a worsening threat, or that it exists at all. As its impacts grow more visible and destructive, how is this possible?

    Views of Hurricane Milton’s damage across Florida.

    One answer lies in a unique facet of human psychology – specifically, in how people manage the fear aroused by existential threats. For many people, denying the existence of a climate crisis is not only convenient, but may feel psychologically necessary.

    Terror management theory

    The Pulitzer Prize-winning anthropologist Ernest Becker put it this way: “The idea of death, the fear of it, haunts the human animal like nothing else … to overcome it by denying it in some way is the final destiny for man.”

    In plain terms, he was saying that most people struggle to accept their mortality and take pains to distort their perception of reality to avoid confronting it.

    In the 1980s, social psychologists developed “terror management theory,” showing the lengths people go to deny death. Hundreds of experiments have tested its implications. In a common method, participants reflect on their own death, while control groups consider less threatening topics, like dental pain. The key question: What does death awareness do to people?

    After writing about death, people tend to quickly move on, pushing thoughts of it from consciousness with distractions, rationalizations and other tactics. Health care professionals see this every day. For example, people often dodge screenings and diagnostic tests to avoid the frightening possibility of discovering cancer.

    Skidmore College psychologist Sheldon Solomon discusses Ernest Becker’s ‘The Denial of Death’ and terror management theory in the context of humanity’s history of brutal behavior.

    But here’s the rub: Terror management theory suggests that when people are not thinking about death, it nevertheless holds influence. The unconscious mind lingers on the problem even after people have used strategies to quiet the fear by pushing it from awareness.

    Social psychology experiments show that people often cope with the specter of death by attaching themselves to cultural ideologies, such as religious, political or even sports fandom. These worldviews imbue life with meaning, values and purpose. And that can ease the terror of mortality by connecting people to an enduring and comforting web of ideas and beliefs that transcend one’s own existence.

    When people are made aware of death, those systems of meaning become even more critical to their psychological functioning. Existential threats make us cling even tighter to the meaning systems that sustain us.

    Climate denial as a defense mechanism

    Much like a terror management lab experiment – or the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic – natural disasters like hurricanes Helene and Milton trigger death anxiety.

    Rising sea levels, warming oceans and intensifying storms – all tied to global warming fueled by human actions – represent an existential threat.

    From our perspective, it is not surprising that climate-related disasters disappear from the public consciousness almost as soon as they have passed. Google Trends data exemplifies this: Incoming storms instigated an uptick in searches for “climate change” and “global warming” in the days before Hurricane Helene made landfall on Sept. 25, 2024, and Hurricane Milton on Oct. 9, 2024. Then those searches quickly declined as people shifted their focus away from the threat.

    Unfortunately, climate change isn’t going away, no matter how hard anyone tries to deny it.

    While climate denial allows people to protect themselves from feelings of distress, terror management theory suggests that denying death is just the tip of the iceberg. For some people, accepting the reality of climate change would necessitate reevaluating their ideologies.

    Terror management theory predicts that individuals whose ideologies conflict with environmental concerns may ironically double down on those beliefs to psychologically manage the existential threat posed by climate-related disasters. It’s similar to how mortality reminders can lead people to engage in risky behavior, such as smoking or tanning. Hurricanes may reinforce denial and commitment to a worldview that rejects climate change.

    A path forward: Building new worldviews

    Although denial may be a natural psychological response to existential threats, the U.S. may be getting to a point where even deniers can’t ignore the existential threat associated with climate change.

    Again and again, Americans are gobsmacked by the devastation – from hurricanes to severe flooding, wildfires and more.

    A terror management analysis suggests that overcoming this crisis requires weaving a solutions-focused narrative into the ideologies that people rely on for comfort. As psychologists who work on terror management, we believe the fight against climate change should be framed not as an apocalyptic battle that humanity is destined to lose, but as a moral and practical challenge that humanity can collectively overcome.

    Tampa, Florida, meteorologist Denis Phillips had the right idea as the two hurricanes headed for his community: His fact-based social media updates eschew partisan critique, encourage neighbors to support one another and emphasize preparedness and resilience in the face of incoming storms.

    As Milton approached, Phillips told residents to remember his Rule #7: Don’t freak out. That doesn’t mean do nothing – it means evaluate risks without letting emotion interfere, and take action.

    Shifting the narrative from helplessness to collective empowerment and action can help people confront climate change without triggering the existential anxieties that lead to denial – offering a vision for a future that is both secure and personally meaningful.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Time to freak out? How the existential terror of hurricanes can fuel climate change denial – https://theconversation.com/time-to-freak-out-how-the-existential-terror-of-hurricanes-can-fuel-climate-change-denial-242390

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pumpkin Patch Paradox

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    The autumn season, also known as fall, is meteorologically defined in the Northern Hemisphere as the three month period of September through November and represents a season of transition. Summer heat transitions to crisp, cool days; the colors of the leaves transition from green to different hues of yellow, orange, and red; the length of daylight shortens; and our wardrobe transitions from tank tops and shorts to sweaters and long pants. We also begin noticing pumpkins decorating many homes across the U.S. during this time of year.

    Pumpkins are a staple of the autumn season and pumpkin-picking is a tradition enjoyed by many across the U.S. We decorate our homes with pumpkins and fall flowers such as Chrysanthemums, create jack-o-lanterns as Halloween approaches, and pumpkin food items (e.g., pies, lattes, coffee, soups, and many more) are abundant and can be found most anywhere we go.

    Fig 1. Pumpkin production by State for 2021. (Source: USDA Economic Research Service) 

    Pumpkins are produced across all states. However, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Illinois is the top pumpkin-producing state (Fig. 1), harvesting close to 30% of all the pumpkins produced across the U.S. While Illinois produces the most pumpkins, close to 80% of the pumpkins harvested there are processed and canned for products such as pumpkin puree, while the other states sell mostly fresh pumpkins that are used for decoration.

    Weather impacts on pumpkin production

    Like any other crop, deciding when to begin planting pumpkins can be tricky. In order to have pumpkins by autumn, farmers usually begin planting from late May to early July, depending on the location. And after planting, 120 days later, pumpkins are typically harvested.

    Despite their hard exterior, pumpkins are very sensitive to weather conditions.

    Frost/freeze: If farmers plant too early in the spring, when below-freezing temperatures can still occur, then there is a chance that the plant is susceptible to frost, and this could cause the plant to die. Frost or freeze episodes are usually less of a concern during autumn, when temperatures begin to drop, since the plants have reached maturity and the damage is much less.

    Extreme heat: If it is too hot during summer, this could lead to wilted plants or potentially cause the pumpkin flowers to fall. In order for plants to produce crops, pollination needs to occur. However, during very warm days, the pumpkin flowers stay open for shorter periods of time, affecting the effectiveness of pollination.

    Extreme wet conditions: If it rains too much and the soil is extremely wet, this could lead to a delay in planting during spring or harvesting during autumn. Very wet conditions can also lead to nutrient deficiencies, delayed maturity of the plant, and also increases the chance of the development of plant disease such as mildew.

    All of these examples can lead to significantly fewer pumpkins than normal. However, extremely wet conditions have the biggest impact on pumpkin production, and are usually pumpkin farmers’ top weather-related concern. It has been reported that during the very wet years, especially during late summer and early fall, when pumpkins are reaching their maturity, pumpkin growers tend to see that the fruit quality decreases, there are fewer pumpkins, and more disease spreads across the plants.

    Fig. 2. Fresh pumpkin availability per capita for the period of 2000–2023. (Source: USDA Economic Research Service)

    While the production of pumpkins can fluctuate from year to year due to weather, there was a visible reduction in pumpkin availability in 2015 (Fig. 2). This was mainly due to heavy rains that affected the Midwest region during the crucial time for pumpkin planting.

    While the months of May and July were wetter-than-normal for Illinois, the month of June was extremely wet (Fig. 3). June 2015 is Illinois’s wettest June on record with a total of 9.44 inches of rain—which is 5.35 inches more than normal. June 2015 is also Illinois’ second-wettest month for any month on record, trailing behind September of 1962 (9.62 inches).

    Fig. 3. Map of the “Statewide Precipitation Anomalies” for June 2015. (Source: NCEI Climate at a Glance)

    During the three-month period of May–July during 2015, Illinois averaged 20.04 inches of rain, which is 8.24 inches more than normal, and ranked as the wettest May–July period in the state’s 130-year record.

    The very wet conditions during the planting season flooded fields and caused disease and mildew to spread. Eventually, when drier conditions returned, farmers replanted, but the damage was done and the yield of pumpkins was much lower. Overall, this led to slightly more than a 50% reduction in Illinois’s production of pumpkins (from 652 million pounds to close to 318 million pounds of pumpkins).

    Fig. 4. Map of statewide precipitation anomalies for the three-month period of May–July 2015. (Source: NCEI Climate at a Glance)

    Climate change and pumpkin production

    “Climate change is projected to reduce the availability and affordability of nutritious food, with impacts being unevenly distributed across society.” – Fifth National Climate Assessment

    The Earth’s climate is warming and despite the overall global temperature increase seeming to be small, its effects can be significant at the local level.

    The U.S. is not exempt from the effects of climate change. The contiguous U.S. annual average temperature has increased 0.16°F per decade since 1895; however, it is close to three times more (0.46°F) since 1981. Meanwhile, precipitation totals at the national-level have increased at 0.17 inch per decade since 1895 and no increase is evident since 1981.

    Fig. 5. U.S. annual (a) temperature and (b) precipitation anomalies for the period of 1895–2023. (Source: NCEI Climate at a Glance)

    A warmer climate will affect agricultural production, including pumpkins, across the U.S. through changes in the frequency and intensity of certain extreme events. The Midwest, which is known for its significant agricultural production, is already seeing the effects of climate change. The region has observed increased temperatures, longer growing seasons, and increased intensity and frequency of heavy rainfall events that lead to floods. The increasing warmer temperatures and the shifting of the growing seasons are also leading to larger pest populations that can harm crops and affect the production.

    Extreme events are projected to continue to increase in intensity and frequency, putting agricultural production and availability at greater risk. 

    Agricultural adaptation practices

    While climate change is affecting many aspects of our lives, including our food security, farmers are preparing themselves for changes through agricultural adaptation. Agricultural adaptation is when farmers adjust their agricultural practices to reduce the effects of weather and climate change during crop production.

    Across the Midwest, many pumpkin growers have implemented additional water resources (e.g. stock ponds, wells, among others) to help mitigate the effects of drought and protect their pumpkins and other crops. Some have implemented what is known as biological controls, which refers to using natural predators (e.g. spiders), parasites, or other living organisms that are found in the ecosystem to control certain pests from harming the crops.

    While pumpkin farming, as well as other agricultural practices, are facing challenges as our climate continues to warm, farmers and scientists are continuously working together to better understand the impacts and how they can address those to continue successful farming and producing pumpkins (and other crops) for our nation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: La Paradoja del Huerto de Calabazas

    Source: US National Oceanographic Data Center

    La estación del otoño se define meteorológicamente en el hemisferio norte como el período de tres meses de septiembre a noviembre y representa una estación de transición. El calor del verano se transforma en días frescos; los colores de las hojas cambian de verde a diferentes tonos de amarillo, naranja y rojo; la duración de la luz del día se acorta; y nuestro vestuario cambia de camisetas sin mangas y pantalones cortos a suéteres y pantalones largos. También comenzamos a notar calabazas que decoran muchos hogares en los EE. UU. durante esta época del año.

    Las calabazas son comunes durante la temporada de otoño y visitar fincas para escoger calabazas es una tradición que disfrutan muchas personas en los EE. UU. Decoramos nuestras casas con calabazas y flores de otoño como las crisantemos, creamos linternas de calabaza cuando se acerca Halloween y los alimentos de calabaza (por ejemplo, pasteles, café, sopas y muchos más) son abundantes y se pueden encontrar en cualquier lugar al que vayamos.

    Fig 1. Producción de calabaza por estado en el 2021. (Fuente: USDA Economic Research Service) 

    Las calabazas se producen en todos los estados. Sin embargo, según el Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (conocido como USDA por sus siglas en inglés), Illinois es el principal estado productor de calabazas (Fig. 1), ya que cosecha cerca del 30% de todas las calabazas producidas en los Estados Unidos. Aunque Illinois produce la mayor cantidad de calabazas, cerca del 80% de las calabazas que se cosechan allí se procesan y se enlatan para productos como puré de calabaza, mientras que los otros estados venden principalmente calabazas frescas que se usan para decoración.

    El tiempo afecta la producción de calabazas

    Como cualquier otro cultivo, decidir cuándo empezar a sembrar calabazas puede ser complicado. Para tener calabazas en otoño, los agricultores suelen empezar a sembrar desde finales de mayo hasta principios de julio, dependiendo del lugar. Y 120 días después de sembrar las semillas, normalmente se cosechan las calabazas.

    A pesar de su duro exterior, las calabazas son muy sensibles a las condiciones del tiempo.

    Heladas: Si los agricultores siembran demasiado pronto en la primavera, cuando todavía pueden darse temperaturas bajo cero, existe la posibilidad de que la planta sea susceptible a las heladas, y esto podría provocar su muerte. Las heladas o episodios de congelación suelen ser menos preocupantes durante el otoño, cuando las temperaturas empiezan a bajar, ya que las plantas han alcanzado la madurez y el daño es mucho menor.

    Calor extremo: Si hace demasiado calor durante el verano, esto podría provocar que las plantas se marchiten o que las flores de la calabaza se caigan. Para que las plantas produzcan cosechas, es necesario que se produzca la polinización. Sin embargo, durante los días muy cálidos, las flores de la calabaza permanecen abiertas durante períodos de tiempo más cortos, lo que afecta a la eficacia de la polinización.

    Condiciones de humedad extrema: Si llueve demasiado y el suelo está extremadamente húmedo, esto podría provocar un retraso en la siembra durante la primavera o un retraso en la cosecha durante el otoño. Las condiciones muy húmedas también pueden provocar deficiencias de nutrientes, un retraso en la madurez de la planta y también aumentan la posibilidad de desarrollo de enfermedades de las plantas como el moho.

    Todos estos ejemplos pueden resultar en una cantidad significativamente menor de calabazas de lo normal. Sin embargo, las condiciones extremadamente húmedas tienen el mayor impacto en la producción de calabazas y son la principal preocupación de los agricultores de calabazas. Se ha informado de que durante los años muy húmedos, especialmente a fines del verano y principios del otoño, cuando las calabazas están alcanzando su madurez, los agricultores de calabazas tienden a ver que la calidad de la fruta disminuye, hay menos calabazas y se propagan más enfermedades en las plantas.

    Fig. 2. Disponibilidad de calabaza fresca per cápita durante el período 2000–2023. (Fuente: Servicio de Investigación Económica del USDA)

    Aunque la producción de calabazas puede fluctuar de un año a otro debido al tiempo, hubo una reducción visible en la disponibilidad de calabazas en el 2015 (Fig. 2). Esto se debió principalmente a las fuertes lluvias que afectaron la región del Medio Oeste durante el momento crucial para la siembra de calabazas.

    Los meses de mayo y julio fueron más húmedos de lo normal en Illinois y el mes de junio fue extremadamente húmedo (Fig. 3). Junio ​​del 2015 es el junio más húmedo registrado en Illinois con un total de 9.44 pulgadas de lluvia, que es 5.35 pulgadas más de lo normal. Junio ​​del 2015 también es el segundo mes más húmedo de Illinois de todos los meses registrados, detrás de septiembre del 1962 (9.62 pulgadas).

    Fig. 3. Mapa de las anomalías de precipitación en todo los estados para junio del 2015. (Fuente: NCEI Climate at a Glance)

    Durante el período de tres meses de mayo a julio del 2015, Illinois tuvo un promedio de 20.04 pulgadas de lluvia, que es 8.24 pulgadas más de lo normal, y se clasificó como el período de mayo a julio más húmedo en los 130 años de registro del estado.

    Las condiciones muy húmedas durante la temporada de siembra inundaron los campos y provocaron la propagación de enfermedades y moho. Finalmente, cuando regresaron las condiciones más secas, los agricultores volvieron a sembrar, pero el daño ya estaba hecho y la producción de calabazas fue mucho menor. En general, esto provocó una reducción de poco más del 50% en la producción de calabazas de Illinois (de 652 millones de libras a cerca de 318 millones de libras de calabazas).

    Fig. 4. Mapa de anomalías de precipitación a nivel estatal para el período de tres meses de mayo a julio del 2015. (Fuente: NCEI Climate at a Glance)

    El cambio climático y la producción de calabaza

    “Se proyecta que el cambio climático reducirá la disponibilidad y asequibilidad de alimentos nutritivos y que sus impactos se distribuyan de forma desigual en la sociedad”. – Quinta Evaluación Nacional del Clima

    El clima de la Tierra se está calentando y, a pesar de que el aumento general de la temperatura global parece ser pequeño, sus efectos pueden ser significativos a nivel local.

    Los Estados Unidos no está exento de los efectos del cambio climático. La temperatura media anual de los Estados Unidos contiguos ha aumentado 0.16°F por década desde 1895; Sin embargo, es casi tres veces más (0.46°F) desde 1981. Mientras tanto, los totales de precipitaciones a nivel nacional han aumentado a un ritmo de 0.17 pulgadas por década desde 1895 y no hay ningún aumento evidente desde 1981.

    Fig. 5. Anomalías anuales de (a) temperatura y (b) precipitación en EE. UU. durante el período de 1895 a 2023. (Fuente: NCEI Climate at a Glance)

    Un clima más cálido afectará la producción agrícola, incluyendo la de calabazas, en todo los EE. UU. a través de cambios en la frecuencia e intensidad de ciertos eventos extremos. El Medio Oeste, que es conocido por su producción agrícola, ya está viendo los efectos del cambio climático. La región ha observado un aumento de las temperaturas, temporadas de crecimiento más largas y una mayor intensidad y frecuencia de eventos de lluvias intensas que provocan inundaciones. El aumento de las temperaturas y el cambio de las temporadas de crecimiento también están generando poblaciones de plagas más grandes que pueden dañar los cultivos y afectar la producción.

    Se proyecta que los eventos extremos seguirán aumentando en intensidad y frecuencia, poniendo en mayor riesgo la producción y la disponibilidad agrícolas.

    Prácticas de adaptación agrícola

    Aunque el cambio climático está afectando muchos aspectos de nuestras vidas, incluyendo nuestra seguridad alimentaria, los agricultores se están preparando para los cambios mediante la adaptación agrícola. La adaptación agrícola es cuando los agricultores ajustan sus prácticas agrícolas para reducir los efectos del tiempo y el cambio climático durante la producción de cultivos.

    En el Medio Oeste, muchos productores de calabazas han implementado recursos hídricos adicionales (por ejemplo, estanques de almacenamiento, pozos, entre otros) para ayudar a mitigar los efectos de la sequía y proteger sus calabazas y otros cultivos. Algunos han implementado lo que se conoce como controles biológicos, que se refiere al uso de depredadores naturales (por ejemplo, arañas), parásitos u otros organismos vivos que se encuentran en el ecosistema para controlar ciertas plagas que dañan los cultivos.

    Aunque el cultivo de calabazas, así como otras prácticas agrícolas, enfrentan desafíos a medida que nuestro clima continúa calentándose, los agricultores y los científicos trabajan juntos continuamente para comprender mejor los impactos y cómo pueden abordarlos para continuar cultivando y produciendo calabazas (y otros cultivos) exitosamente para nuestra nación.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opening in McCormick County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opening in McCormick County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opening in McCormick County

    COLUMBIA, S.C. – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in McCormick County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  McCormick CountyMcCormick County Library 201 Railroad Ave. McCormick, SC 29835Open Oct. 30 – Nov. 5, 8 a.m.- 7 p.m. Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. Click here to find centers that are already open in South Carolina. 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. To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 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 apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and 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. 
    gerard.hammink
    Wed, 10/30/2024 – 14:08

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Biden-Harris Administration Announces Selections for Nearly $3 Billion of Investments in Clean Ports as Part of Investing in America Agenda

    Source: US State of New Jersey

    EPA’s Clean Ports Program to fund 55 zero-emission port equipment, infrastructure, and planning projects across the nation to tackle climate change, reduce air pollution, promote good jobs, and advance environmental justice

    WASHINGTON – Tuesday, as part of President Biden and Vice President Harris’ Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of 55 applicants across 27 states and territories to receive nearly $3 billion through EPA’s Clean Ports Program. These grants will support the deployment of zero-emission equipment, as well as infrastructure and climate and air quality planning projects at ports across the country. The grants are funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act — the largest investment in combating climate change and promoting clean energy in history— and will advance environmental justice by reducing diesel air pollution in U.S. ports and surrounding communities while promoting good-paying and union jobs that help America’s ports thrive.

    Ports are vital to the U.S. economy and are responsible for moving goods and people throughout the country. At the same time, the port and freight equipment responsible for moving goods including trucks, locomotives, marine vessels, and cargo-handling equipment contribute to significant levels of diesel air pollution at and near port facilities. This pollution is especially harmful to nearby communities’ health and contributes to climate change. The funds announced Tuesday will improve air quality at ports across the country by installing clean, zero-emission freight and ferry technologies along with associated infrastructure, eliminating more than 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution, equivalent to 391,220 homes’ energy use for one year.

    “Our nation’s ports are critical to creating opportunity here in America, offering good-paying jobs, moving goods, and powering our economy,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today’s historic $3 billion investment builds on President Biden’s vision of growing our economy while ensuring America leads in globally competitive solutions of the future. Delivering cleaner technologies and resources to U.S. ports will slash harmful air and climate pollution while protecting people who work in and live nearby ports communities.”

    “President Biden and Vice President Harris entered office with a vision to rebuild our nation’s infrastructure and tackle the climate crisis in a way that would create good-paying and union jobs and uplift the communities who’ve borne the brunt of pollution,” said John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy. “The EPA Clean Ports program is one of the best examples of their vision come to life.”

    “Decarbonizing our nation’s ports is one of the many ways President Biden and Vice President Harris’s investment agenda is helping cut pollution and create good-paying union jobs,” said White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi. “The communities being uplifted by these grants provide proof points for how good environmental policy can be good economic policy. By advancing clean energy solutions in every sector of our growing economy, the Biden-Harris administration continues to position our nation to lead the global clean energy race, while protecting all communities — especially those on the front-line and the fence-line — from harmful pollution in the air we breathe and the water we drink.”

    “The Port of Baltimore is a vital economic engine for the state and a leader among the nation’s ports. As we work to improve the Port, it is essential that we build for the future. The projects supported by the Clean Ports Program will help reduce emissions, improve air quality in the Baltimore region and create more clean energy jobs,” said Senator Ben Cardin (MD). “The Biden-Harris administration’s bold investments in modernizing our infrastructure are driving our economy forward while enabling us to take on climate change in a meaningful way.”

     “The tremendous projects selected for these federal funding awards will improve air quality and combat climate change by dramatically diminishing the Port of Baltimore’s greenhouse gas and toxic pollutant emissions via installation of zero-emission cargo handling equipment and trucks, while also bolstering the Maryland Port Administration’s overall emissions reduction strategy. These extraordinary federal investments into our Port are consistent with our collective duty to preserve the planet – while also continuing to uplift the Port of Baltimore’s workforce and surrounding communities in the transition to a zero-emissions facility,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07). “As exemplified by this compelling announcement, the historic Inflation Reduction Act continues to tackle the climate crisis with fierce urgency right here in Baltimore.” 

    In February 2024, EPA announced two separate funding opportunities for U.S. ports – a Zero-Emission Technology Deployment Competition to directly fund zero-emission equipment and infrastructure to reduce mobile source emissions and a Climate and Air Quality Planning Competition to fund climate and air quality planning activities. The competitions closed in May 2024 with over $8 billion in requests from applicants across the country seeking to advance next-generation, clean technologies at U.S. ports.

    After a thorough and rigorous grant application review process, EPA selected 55 applications to receive this historic investment. Applications to the Clean Ports Program were evaluated in part on their workforce development efforts, to ensure that projects will expand access to high-quality jobs. Grant selections also align with the Administration’s national goal for a zero-emission freight sector, the National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, and the ‘all-of government’ National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy.

    Selected projects cover a wide range of human-operated and human-maintained equipment used at and around ports, with funds supporting the purchase of zero-emission equipment, including over 1,500 units of cargo handling equipment, 1,000 drayage trucks, 10 locomotives, and 20 vessels, as well as shore power systems, battery-electric and hydrogen vehicle charging and fueling infrastructure, and solar power generation.

    Initial estimates of tailpipe reductions from this new equipment are estimated to be over 3 million metric tons of CO2, 12 thousand short tons of NOx, and 200 short tons of PM2.5 in the first 10 years of operation.  These estimates are based on initial counts of proposed zero-emission equipment and shore power installations and do not consider benefits from retiring older vehicles, among other factors. These simplified estimates were prepared using national default emissions and activity factors and will be refined over time with more detailed information from selectees.

    Selected Zero-Emission Technology Deployment project examples include:

    The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has been selected to receive an anticipated $344,138,135 to work with 5 collaborating partners to implement their proposed project, Catalyzing Change: Zero-Emissions NY-NJ Port Projects for a Greener Future. The proposed project includes the deployment of electric cargo handling equipment and drayage trucks with supporting charging infrastructure, including through a ZE Equipment for Ports (ZEEP) Voucher Incentive Program and Green Drayage Accelerator (GDA) program. PANYNJ commits to reducing the number of polluting vehicles at the port by scrapping a portion of the existing fleet. The project also includes the installation of vessel shore power infrastructure. As part of this project, PANYNJ will implement a comprehensive community engagement plan and train workers to operate and maintain new equipment and infrastructure.

    The Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority has been selected to receive an anticipated $21,905,782 to initiate the transition to a zero-emission future for the Port of Detroit in Michigan. The proposed project includes the acquisition and deployment of battery-electric cargo handling equipment, vessels, railcar movers, charging equipment, and solar arrays to support the electricity needs of the new equipment. The project also includes the scrappage of diesel cargo handling equipment, a vessel, and a railcar mover to reduce air pollution at the port and in the surrounding area. As part of this project, the applicant plans to develop a stakeholder engagement plan to facilitate community engagement and a guidebook for workforce development. 

    The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) has been selected to receive an anticipated $48,763,746 to upgrade the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick with vessel shore power systems. These systems will allow ships to ‘plug-in’ to electric grid power and turn off auxiliary diesel engines while at port. In addition, the project includes the scrappage and replacement of diesel terminal tractors with new electric terminal tractors and the installation of electric charging infrastructure. GPA plans to engage with communities through their community advisory network and conduct classroom and on the job training for workers related to shore power, zero-emission vehicles, and charging stations.

    The Philadelphia Regional Port Authority has been selected to receive an anticipated $77,650,965 to deploy zero-emission port equipment across the Port of Philadelphia’s (PhilaPort) operations in Pennsylvania. The equipment slated for purchase under this project includes zero-emissions (ZE) cargo handling equipment and associated charging infrastructure. The project also includes the scrappage of a portion of the existing diesel fleet to reduce air pollution at the port and in the surrounding area. In addition to the deployment of zero-emission technology, the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority plans to conduct community engagement and workforce development through this project.

    The Port Department of the City of Oakland has been selected to receive an anticipated $322,167,584 to purchase and deploy zero-emission technology at the Port of Oakland in California. Project activities include the deployment of electric and hydrogen cargo handling equipment, drayage trucks, charging infrastructure, and a battery energy storage system, and the scrappage of a portion of the existing diesel fleet. The project includes community engagement activities, workforce training on zero-emission equipment, and efforts to expand access to high-quality jobs in near-port communities.

    Selected Climate and Air Quality Planning project examples include:

    The Port of Houston Authority in Texas, which has been selected to receive an anticipated $2,983,457 grant for the Port Houston’s PORT SHIFT (Ports Optimizing Resilient Transportation through Sustainable, Human, Innovative, and Forward-looking Technology), a comprehensive program designed to accelerate the introduction of zero-emissions technology into the Houston Port ecosystem. The project includes nine tasks: 1) greenhouse gas emissions inventory; 2) truck route analysis; 3) infrastructure cost assessment; 4) climate action plan; 5) performance measurement framework; 6) advisory council and community engagement forum; 7) trucking industry collaborative; 8) workforce planning and engagement; and 9) resiliency planning.

    The Puerto Rico Ports Authority has been selected to receive an anticipated $1,800,000 for planning activities including the development of a baseline air emissions inventory and two projected “business as usual” emissions inventories for 2030/2050, development of emissions reduction strategies, and stakeholder engagement. Reduction strategies will prioritize technologically and operationally feasible vehicles and equipment that can be integrated to reduce criteria, greenhouse gas, and toxic air emissions. The project also includes development of a resiliency plan to protect infrastructure from climate related vulnerabilities, such as hurricanes.

    The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) has been selected to receive an anticipated $3,000,000 to conduct planning for a breakbulk cargo terminal at the Port of Tacoma in Washington. Expected activities include completing a baseline emissions inventory and feasibility analysis of ZE technology to inform the development of a plan to transition 40 pieces of CHE and light-duty vehicles to zero-emissions, and engineering and design for shore power. A workforce development and climate resilience needs assessment will be prepared as part of the planning process. Meaningful community is already a standard practice at NWSA, and the project is informed by community concerns.

    In addition to protecting human health and the environment, the program will protect and grow good-paying and union port jobs, create new good-paying and union jobs in the domestic clean energy sector, and enhance U.S. economic competitiveness through the innovation, installation, maintenance, and operation of zero-emissions equipment and infrastructure. The program’s historic investment in zero-emission port technology will also help promote and ensure the U.S. position as a global leader in clean technologies.

    EPA’s Clean Ports Program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.  Disadvantaged communities will benefit from cleaner air and access to high quality jobs that will be created to operate zero emissions technologies at ports.

    EPA ensured that near-port community engagement and equity considerations were at the forefront of the Clean Ports Program’s design, including by evaluating applications on the extent and quality of their projects’ community engagement efforts. The program will also help to ensure that meaningful community engagement and emissions reduction planning become a part of port industry standard practices by building on the successes of EPA’s Ports Initiative and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act programs. These programs have previously invested over $196 million to implement 207 diesel emissions reduction projects at ports with an additional $88 million to multi-sector projects that involve ports and have encouraged strong community-port collaboration.

    The agency anticipates making awards once all legal, statutory, and administrative requirements are satisfied. Selectees will work with EPA over the coming months to finalize project plans before receiving final awards and moving into the implementation phase. Project implementation will occur over the next three to four years depending on the scope of each project.

    To learn more about the Clean Ports Program tentatively selected applications, please visit the Clean Ports Program Selections webpage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $5 Million Investment to Expand Access to Behavioral Health Care in Primary Care Offices

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: $5 Million Investment to Expand Access to Behavioral Health Care in Primary Care Offices

    $5 Million Investment to Expand Access to Behavioral Health Care in Primary Care Offices
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    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announces $5 million to help providers build capacity and implement the Collaborative Care Model in primary care offices across the state. Through the Collaborative Care Model, primary care providers work with an integrated behavioral health case manager and a psychiatric consultant to monitor and treat patients for mild to moderate behavioral health conditions. The need for integrated medical and behavioral health care is greater than ever as rates of anxiety and depression have substantially increased following the COVID-19 pandemic.

    “Too many individuals with mental health and substance use disorders delay the care they need because they struggle finding a provider,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “Collaborative Care can serve more people earlier by supporting primary care providers in reaching people at the onset of behavioral health symptoms.”

    Collaborative Care is covered by NC Medicaid, Medicare and most commercial insurance plans in North Carolina, helping to break down barriers that separate how physical and behavioral health services are delivered and paid for. Patients are able to receive services through a provider, and in a setting, they already know and trust, which gives them easier access to the care they need. Collaborative Care improves patient outcomes, reduces health care costs and reduces stigma related to mental health and substance use disorders.

    NCDHHS’ investment is designed to help with the startup costs of implementing Collaborative Care, particularly for primary care providers in rural or high-need areas that have limited access to behavioral health services. The department is partnering with Community Care of North Carolina (CCNC) to select eligible provider applications and distribute funding to approximately 100 providers across the state.

    As of Oct. 10, providers can apply for up to $50,000 per site to help with hiring and start up costs. Primary care practices are encouraged to apply and can find more information through CCNC’s dedicated Collaborative Care website. Efforts will be made to ensure primary care practices in western North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene will have an opportunity to apply for inclusion in the program, even if they are unable to apply for funds at this time.

    “The need is greater than ever before,” said Dr. Carrie Brown, Chief Psychiatrist for NCDHHS. “From 2019 to 2021, the percentage of Americans reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression nearly quadrupled, from 11% to 41%. The Collaborative Care partnership between primary care and psychiatrists is one example of the department’s efforts to increase access to behavioral health care for those who need it as we focus on whole-person health.”

    Nationally, the Collaborative Care Model is a strategic response to the shortage of mental health care professionals across the country. Recent data show more than 123 million people in the U.S. live in a Federally Designated Mental Health Professional shortage area, including one in four North Carolina counties. In North Carolina, a recent study finds there are 28 counties without a practicing psychiatrist, and it can take weeks or even months to get an appointment with a mental health provider. 

    With the Collaborative Care Model, a behavioral health care manager is embedded within a primary care office and, through consultation with a psychiatrist, helps the primary care physician implement evidence-based interventions for patients who screen positive for targeted behavioral health conditions. In this model, one psychiatrist can reach far more North Carolinians with mild to moderate behavioral health needs than they could directly provide care for through traditional behavioral health services.

    “Through this partnership with primary care professionals, we are working to create a more accessible mental healthcare system,” said Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services. “This ensures our community receives the mental health care they need and deserve, in a setting where they are most comfortable.”

    The $5 million investment in capacity building is made possible by the NC General Assembly through the signing bonus North Carolina received from the federal government when it approved Medicaid Expansion. The investment builds on the department’s strategic work to enhance access to the Collaborative Care Model, which has already resulted in a nearly 100% increase in utilization among NC Medicaid primary care providers between April 2023 and May 2024.

    NC Medicaid, in coordination with key stakeholders, has led a statewide effort over the past two years to align requirements and reimbursement for Collaborative Care across payors, increase NC Medicaid reimbursement for behavioral health services to 120% of Medicare rates and remove copays for Medicaid beneficiaries. Additionally, NC Medicaid has provided training and technical assistance to support model implementation through Area Health Education Centers, connected interested primary care practices with psychiatric consultants, and created a customized Collaborative Care registry for providers through CCNC. These efforts are outlined in detail in a white paper published by NC Medicaid in December 2023.   

    NCDHHS’ investment in the Collaborative Care Model is part of a broader commitment to build an integrated behavioral health system in North Carolina. The NC General Assembly last year allocated a historic $835 million to strengthen the behavioral health system, and millions of North Carolinians are already benefiting from the sweeping, systemic improvements these funds are making for their health, well-being and day-to-day lives. More information is available in the NCDHHS Transforming North Carolina’s Behavioral Health System white paper.

    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte anuncia $ 5 millones para ayudar a los proveedores a desarrollar capacidades e implementar el Modelo de Atención Colaborativa en las oficinas de atención médica primaria de todo el estado. A través del Modelo de Atención Colaborativa, los proveedores de atención médica primaria trabajan con un administrador de casos de salud conductual integrado y un consultor psiquiátrico para monitorear y tratar a los pacientes con condiciones de salud conductual de leves a moderadas. La necesidad de atención médica y de salud conductual integrada es mayor que nunca, ya que las tasas de ansiedad y depresión han aumentado sustancialmente después de la pandemia de COVID-19.

    “Demasiadas personas con trastornos de salud mental y uso de sustancias retrasan la atención que necesitan porque tienen dificultades para encontrar un proveedor”, dijo el secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Kody H. Kinsley. “La Atención Colaborativa puede servir a más personas antes, al ayudar a los proveedores de atención médica primaria a llegar a las personas al inicio de los síntomas de salud conductual”.

    La Atención Colaborativa está cubierta por NC Medicaid, Medicare y la mayoría de los planes de seguros comerciales en Carolina del Norte, lo que ayuda a derribar las barreras que separan la forma en que se prestan y pagan los servicios de salud física y conductual. Los pacientes pueden recibir servicios a través de un proveedor y en un entorno que ya conocen y en el que confían, lo que les brinda un acceso más fácil a la atención que necesitan. La Atención Colaborativa mejora los resultados de los pacientes, reduce los costos de atención médica y reduce el estigma relacionado con la salud mental y los trastornos por uso de sustancias.

    La inversión del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés) está diseñada para ayudar con los costos iniciales de la implementación de la Atención Colaborativa, particularmente para los proveedores de atención médica primaria en áreas rurales o de alta necesidad que tienen acceso limitado a los servicios de salud conductual. El departamento se está asociando con Atención Comunitaria de Carolina del Norte (Community Care of North Carolina, CCNC, por sus siglas en inglés) para seleccionar solicitudes de proveedores elegibles y distribuir fondos a aproximadamente 100 proveedores en todo el estado.

    A partir del 10 de octubre, los proveedores pueden solicitar hasta $50,000 por sitio para ayudar con los costos de contratación e iniciación. Se alienta a las prácticas de atención médica primaria a aplicar y encontrar más información a través del sitio web dedicado a la Atención Colaborativa de CCNC. Se harán esfuerzos para garantizar que las prácticas de atención médica primaria en el oeste de Carolina del Norte afectadas por el huracán Helene tengan la oportunidad de solicitar su inclusión en el programa, incluso si no pueden solicitar fondos en este momento.

    “La necesidad es mayor que nunca”, dijo la doctora Carrie Brown, directora psiquiatra del NCDHHS. “De 2019 a 2021, el porcentaje de estadounidenses que reportaron síntomas de ansiedad y depresión casi se cuadruplicó, del 11% al 41%. La asociación de Atención Colaborativa entre la atención médica primaria y los psiquiatras es un ejemplo de los esfuerzos del departamento para aumentar el acceso a la atención de salud conductual para quienes la necesitan, ya que nos centramos en la salud integral de la persona”.

    A nivel nacional, el Modelo de Atención Colaborativa es una respuesta estratégica a la escasez de profesionales de la salud mental en todo el país. Datos recientes muestran que más de 123 millones de personas en Estados Unidos viven en un área de escasez de profesionales de la salud mental designados por el gobierno federal, incluido uno de cada cuatro condados de Carolina del Norte. En Carolina del Norte, un estudio reciente encuentra que hay 28 condados sin un psiquiatra que ejerza, y puede tomar semanas o incluso meses obtener una cita con un proveedor de salud mental. 

    Con el Modelo de Atención Colaborativa, un administrador de atención de salud conductual está integrado en una oficina de atención médica primaria y, a través de la consulta con un psiquiatra, ayuda al médico de atención médica primaria a implementar intervenciones basadas en evidencia para pacientes que dan positivo para condiciones de salud conductual específicas. En este modelo, un psiquiatra puede llegar a muchos más habitantes de Carolina del Norte con necesidades de salud conductual de leves a moderadas de las que podrían atender directamente a través de los servicios tradicionales de salud conductual.

    “A través de esta asociación con profesionales de atención médica primaria, estamos trabajando para crear un sistema de salud mental más accesible”, dijo Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, directora de la División de Salud Mental, Discapacidades del Desarrollo y Servicios de Uso de Sustancias del NCDHHS. “Esto garantiza que nuestra comunidad reciba la atención de salud mental que necesita y merece, en un entorno más cómodo”.

    La inversión de $ 5 millones en el desarrollo de capacidades es posible gracias a la Asamblea General de Carolina del Norte a través del bono por contratación que Carolina del Norte recibió del gobierno federal cuando aprobó la Expansión de Medicaid. La inversión se basa en el trabajo estratégico del departamento para mejorar el acceso al Modelo de Atención Colaborativa, que ya ha resultado en un aumento de casi el 100% en la utilización entre los proveedores de atención médica primaria de Medicaid de Carolina del Norte entre abril de 2023 y mayo de 2024.

    NC Medicaid, en coordinación con las principales partes interesadas, ha liderado un esfuerzo estatal en los últimos dos años para alinear los requisitos y el reembolso de la Atención Colaborativa entre los contribuyentes, aumentar el reembolso de NC Medicaid por servicios de salud conductual al 120% de las tasas de Medicare y eliminar los copagos para los beneficiarios de Medicaid. Además, NC Medicaid ha brindado capacitación y asistencia técnica para apoyar la implementación del modelo a través de los Centros de Educación para la Salud del Área (Area Health Education Centers, AHEC, por sus siglas en inglés), ha conectado las prácticas de atención médica primaria interesadas con los consultores psiquiátricos y ha creado un registro personalizado de Atención Colaborativa para los proveedores a través de CCNC. Estos esfuerzos se describen en detalle en un libro blanco publicado por NC Medicaid en diciembre de 2023.   

    La inversión del NCDHHS en el Modelo de Atención Colaborativa es parte de un compromiso más amplio para construir un sistema integrado de salud conductual en Carolina del Norte. El año pasado, la Asamblea General de Carolina del Norte asignó $ 835 millones históricos para fortalecer el sistema de salud conductual, y millones de habitantes de Carolina del Norte ya se están beneficiando de las mejoras radicales y sistémicas que estos fondos están haciendo para su salud, bienestar y vida cotidiana. Para obtener más información, visite [$835 reporte]. 

    Oct 30, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Calls for Increased Collaboration to Accelerate the Green Energy Transition in Africa

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

    WASHINGTON D.C., United States of America, October 30, 2024/APO Group/ —

    The eighth Babacar Ndiaye Lecture held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington D.C., on 26 October 2024, under-scored the need for African nations to strike a balance between short-term development imperatives and long-term climate goals. 

    Under the theme “Saving Lives Today versus Saving the Planet for the Future: Can the AfCFTA Resolve the Climate Change Dilemma?” discussions centred on how the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Africa’s most ambitious trade initiative, could serve as a vehicle for economic growth and environmental sustainability, positioning the continent as a leader in the global green transition.  

    The Lecture drew a distinguished audience of policymakers, academics, financial experts and climate advocates.  

    Speaking about Dr. Babacar Ndiaye in his opening remarks, H.E. Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank Group, said “Dr Babacar Ndiaye was most concerned by the long-term threats posed to humanity by climate change. He once said, “Climate change is the greatest threat to development, particularly in Africa, where millions of people depend on the environment for their livelihoods … Africa’s economic transformation cannot happen without addressing climate change.”  

    Dr. Ndiaye’s reflection on the impact of climate change was spot-on and intellectually deep.” But, “disappointingly, the global debate on climate has been so much focused on emissions reduction with the question of reducing its impact on Africa and other developing countries always reduced to a footnote. A call for Africa to decarbonise, when the continent has not even carbonised, poses a serious threat to the socio-economic development of a gas-rich continent that has at least six hundred million people without electricity.” 

    The African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement “is seen as a potent means of reducing carbon emissions as it is helping to domesticate industrial activities and minimise the carbon emissions caused by shipping of commodities to far-away lands for value addition and reshipping to Africa and elsewhere. We believe that The AfCFTA could offer a pathway to a just transition, enabling local industrial value addition while protecting the planet.”  

    Professor Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, GCON, the Immediate Past Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, delivered a powerful address titled “Sustainable Infrastructure for Africa’s Future: Harnessing Innovation and Partnerships.” He spoke passionately about the advantages of the AfCFTA and its potential to transform Africa’s trade landscape, reduce carbon emissions and foster innovation in green industries. 

    “There are two obvious advantages to a fully operational AfCFTA.The first is that 42% of African countries, aside from North Africa, now have legislation prohibiting the export of raw ores or minerals before being processed. This legislation gives African countries the benefit of jobs and revenues from local processing and manufacturing.  

    “The second advantage of the AfCFTA is that shipping is a major source of carbon emissions. Under current trade practices, a large share of African raw materials are exported to other regions, where they are processed or manufactured into finished products, usually using fossil fuel power sources, before being shipped back to Africa for consumption. This cycle contributes to higher emissions and constitutes a loss for African countries that do not reap the value chain gain from beneficiation. Intra-African trade in finished goods will substantially reduce this massive cause of global emissions,” he said. 

    The reduction of emissions by intra-African trade has been the subject of several empirical studies. Professor Osinbajo referred to a recent ECA/ CEPII study titled “Greening the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement’s Implementation” published in December 2023, which found, inter alia, that implementing the AfCFTA can boost intra-African trade by 35% in 2045 while increasing GHG emissions by less than 1%, compared to no AfCFTA or climate policies.  

    These studies do not factor in using renewable energy sources in the processing and manufacturing of traded goods, an assumption of the Climate Positive Growth paradigm, which would again substantially reduce emissions.  

    Professor Osinbajo cited mining bauxite in Guinea as an example. If Guinea, which has 25% of global deposits of bauxite, processed the bauxite it mines to aluminium with renewable energy in readiness for export, Guinea could save the world 335 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) per year, which is approximately 1% of global emissions, and create 280,000 jobs and generate $37 billion of additional revenue. If it chooses to sell the aluminium within Africa, it will again save the huge shipping cost to countries thousands of miles away.  

    A Bloomberg study done for the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 2021 on the manufacture of battery precursors found that manufacturing battery precursors in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which has plenty of lithium and cobalt, is three times cheaper than manufacturing it in the US, EU and China. Manufacturing in the DRC would extend value chain opportunities to other African countries, they would need manganese from Zambia, Tanzania, Gabon and South Africa to contribute to its capacity to produce these battery precursors. Manufacturing using renewable energy could significantly reduce the cost of manufacturing. Africa’s abundant renewable energy has very low seasonality or intermittency, making it possible to reliably provide a renewable baseload to power continuous industrial production.  

    “The AfCFTA empowers African countries first to add value to materials and specialise in areas of national comparative advantage, and also to work together to trade more beneficially with the rest of the world,” said Prof Osinbajo. 

    He futher said that “Most African countries depend on fossil fuels for their energy needs and for fossil fuel rich African countries, this is also a major source of export earnings and fiscal revenues. Ostensibly in keeping with their net zero obligations, there has been a growing trend amongst development finance institutions to withdraw from fossil fuel investment. These actions include the World Bank’s decision to cease funding for upstream oil and gas development in Africa and the restrictions on financing downstream gas development by the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Clearly, the implications of these actions are dire, where there are no immediate alternative sources of power and the cost of the transition to cleaner fuels may be prohibitive. Some studies show that divesting from fossil fuels could reduce GDP by as much as USD$30 billion for Nigeria, USD$22 billion for Algeria, and USD$19.3 billion for Angola.” 

    H.E. Dr Rania A Al-Mashat, Minister for Planning, Economic Development and International Co-operation, Arab Republic of Egypt said that while the “African continent is the least responsible for carbon emissions, it has the biggest burden in terms of financing climate change for developmental needs – such as food and water security, and access to energy. 

    She called for greater collaboration with national and international stakeholders “We need to work together; we need to bring the experiences from other places so that Africa can push forward with respect to development and sustainable economic growth.” 

    In her Goodwill Message, Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, spoke about the rapidly closing window to prevent the worst impacts of climate change. She addressed the fact that many African countries are mired in debt, exacerbated by extended crises with little access to long-term concessional financing to invest in sustainable development. 

    “With adequate access to financial resources at a reasonable cost, renewables can dramatically boost economies, grow new industries, create jobs and drive development, including by reaching the over 600 million Africans living without access to power,” said Ms Mohammed. 

    She also stressed the importance of prioritising inclusive policies that empower women and youth when building climate-resilient economies.  

    “By harnessing the collective might of the AfCFTA, Africa can make strides in addressing both climate action and sustainable development by promoting regional integration and fostering green industrialisation.  

    “The AfCFTA can help build climate-resilient economies while creating jobs, reducing poverty and strengthening food security.”  

    The eighth Babacar Ndiaye Lecture also reinforced Afreximbank’s commitment to leadership in financing sustainable infrastructure and trade policies across the continent. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Have Questions? Answers May Be Available at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Have Questions? Answers May Be Available at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers

    Have Questions? Answers May Be Available at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers

    BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA remains in Louisiana to assist survivors recovering from Hurricane Francine. Three Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are open to support survivors from Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes. FEMA employees are on-hand to answer questions and assist with applications. Representatives of the U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of Louisiana and nonprofit and nongovernmental partners are also available to assist survivors as they navigate their recovery. The centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).DRCs are open at the following locations: St. Mary ParishMorgan City Municipal Auditorium728 Myrtle St.Morgan City, LA 70380Terrebonne ParishTerrebonne Parish Library151 Library DriveHouma, LA 70360These centers operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. No appointment is necessary. Lafourche ParishLafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center4876 Hwy. 1Raceland, LA 70394This center will close Nov. 1. It is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.The centers have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff.Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request.Real-time captioning as well as information in Braille, large-print, audio and electronic versions are available.The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.Specialists at the centers can also direct you to operators who can communicate in languages other than English and printed material in multiple languages.Specialists can help you update your FEMA applications and learn about state and community programs and other available assistance. They can clarify information you have received from FEMA or other agencies; they can explain the rental assistance available to homeowners and renters; and they can fax your requested documents to a FEMA processing center and scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.You do not have to visit a center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.Additional options when applying include:Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.
    alexa.brown
    Wed, 10/30/2024 – 15:43

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Announces Over a Billion Dollars to Decarbonize California Ports and Improve Air Quality

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Announces Over a Billion Dollars to Decarbonize California Ports and Improve Air Quality

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chair of the Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife, announced that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will award over $1 billion across seven California ports to build zero-emission (ZE) port infrastructure and implement climate and air quality management plans. This substantial investment comes from the EPA’s Clean Ports Program, which is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act and aims to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality at ports across the nation.
    California ports will receive three of the largest seven grants nationwide, including over $411 million for the Port of Los Angeles, the biggest award in the country.
    California’s ports play an important role in the nation’s economy, moving hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of goods annually. These ports process about 40 percent of all containerized imports and 30 percent of all exports in the United States.
    “California’s ports move the goods that power our economy. This historic investment in our ports is a major step forward in accelerating the zero-emission infrastructure transition,” said Senator Padilla. “With more than a billion dollars in Inflation Reduction Act funding headed to California, we’re decarbonizing our supply chain to produce cleaner air in neighboring communities and meet our climate goals while creating green jobs.”
    “This transformative investment will be a tremendous boost to our efforts to meet our ambitious zero emission goals, improve regional air quality, and combat climate change, while accelerating the port-industry’s transition to zero emissions across the country,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “This grant will fund over 400 pieces of ZE cargo handling equipment, replacing nearly one-third of the diesel equipment currently on our docks, and eliminating over 40,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually. This successful application is the culmination of a deep partnership with environmental justice groups, labor, the private sector, and stakeholders at all levels of government, and we’ll continue to work with our local communities to ensure this investment delivers benefits in their neighborhoods. We thank Senator Padilla, the EPA and the Biden-Harris Administration for their unprecedented support of our ambition and look forward to delivering on our commitment to cleaner air for future generations.”
    “Special thanks to U.S. Senator Alex Padilla for his continued advocacy on supply chain decarbonization,” said Port of Oakland Executive Director Danny Wan. “These Clean Ports grant funds will allow us to bring hundreds of additional zero emissions equipment and vehicles to our seaport resulting in more environmental and economic benefits for the region.” 
    “The funding Senator Padilla has helped to secure from the EPA will be transformational for the Port of Stockton. These funds will significantly decrease freight-related emissions in the Central Valley by transitioning more than 90 percent of our cargo-handling equipment to Zero Emissions. We have been working hard over the years to reduce emissions and replace diesel powered cargo handling equipment with Zero Emission technology and this grant will springboard our efforts. We look forward to leveraging this support to further our advancements in zero-emission equipment and foster a more sustainable future for all,” said Port of Stockton Director Kirk DeJesus.
    “The Port of San Diego is grateful to Senator Padilla for his continued advocacy of the work we are doing to get closer to our goal of becoming a zero emissions operation,” said Chairman Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Modernizing our cargo terminals is a win for our maritime tenants, cargo trade business, and most importantly for our public health goals. Together we are delivering on our promise to those who live, work, and play on and around San Diego Bay.”
    “We are grateful for the U.S. EPA’s award to the Port of San Francisco,” said Elaine Forbes, Executive Director of the Port of San Francisco. “This major investment will allow us to complete the Mission Bay Ferry Landing and to achieve an electric fleet, with zero emissions. We look forward to working with our partners at San Francisco Bay Ferry and the SFPUC to provide Bay Area residents with the nation’s first zero-emission ferry network, and to bring ferry service to Mission Bay. These EPA funds will also support access to critical, well-paying jobs in the maritime trades.”
    “This grant represents an enormous push forward for the nation’s first high-speed zero-emission ferry network,” said Jim Wunderman, Chair of the SF Bay Ferry Board of Directors. “SF Bay Ferry will provide a critical transportation link to Mission Bay, an incredibly successful development hub in San Francisco. And because of the EPA’s decision, we’ll be able to do so with clean, reliable and efficient electric ferries. Thank you to Senator Padilla and the Bay Area Congressional Delegation for their support in winning this transformational grant.”
    “The EPA Clean Ports announcement is exciting news for the Port of Hueneme,” said Celina Zacarias, President of the Oxnard Harbor District/Port of Hueneme. “We have the funding to accelerate the Board’s policy to decarbonize the port.”
    “The $43 million EPA Clean Ports Grant is transformative for the Port of Hueneme,” said Kristin Decas, President & CEO of the Port of Hueneme. “We are grateful for the support and leadership of Senator Padilla to help secure these critical dollars for the betterment of communities adjacent to Ports throughout California.”
    “The Port of Redwood City applauds the EPA for this investment to facilitate the long-range planning and create a roadmap towards decarbonization by diversifying fueling options of Port operations,” said Kristine A. Zortman, Executive Director. “This investment represents an opportunity to create new jobs in a transformative sector of energy production furthering our environmental stewardship, workforce development, and emissions reductions.”
    California ports receiving funding from the Clean Ports Program include:
    Port of Los Angeles — $411.69 million: This project aims to accelerate the port’s transition toward ZE on-terminal operations by significantly reducing air pollution in and around the port, deploying ZE cargo handling equipment (CHE), and enhancing electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The funding will help acquire over 400 pieces of ZE CHE and 250 ZE drayage trucks and associated charging infrastructure, replace nearly 30 percent of the Port’s diesel-burning CHE fleet, and eliminate 41,500 tons of carbon dioxide and 55 tons of NOx emissions annually. The port will also install cutting-edge power management systems, innovative heavy-duty drayage truck and charging deployments, and one of the world’s first shore-power support systems for auto carrier vessels.
    Port of Oakland — $322.17 million: This project will support the vision of reducing emissions and fully decarbonizing port acti­­vities by transitioning to ZE alternatives for drayage trucks and cargo handling equipment. This includes the purchase of 762 pieces of ZE equipment (battery electric or hydrogen fuel cell) to complete a nearly 100 percent­­ conversion of all cargo handling equipment to zero emissions technologies.
    Port of Stockton — $110.47 million: This project will transform the port into the first small port with ZE terminal operations and increase the ZE workforce in Northern California. The port will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particulate matter, and nitrogen oxide by acquiring electric forklifts, cranes, terminal tractors, and a mobile railcar indexer; obtaining a direct current fast charger; implementing a shore power system; and deploying rooftop solar power and battery energy storage to power new equipment.
    Port of San Diego — $58.6 million: This project will support the port’s longstanding commitment to the electrification of San Diego’s maritime cargo handling facilities and freight transportation by implementing the final electrification elements to transform San Diego’s maritime cargo terminals and the goods movement network on San Diego Bay. These funds will help construct all remaining improvements to the Port’s Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal’s (TAMT) legacy 12kv loop to support all future investments in electrical infrastructure and install a grid-based shore power systems to connect ocean-going vessels and support electric commercial harbor craft homeported at TAMT and deployed throughout San Diego Bay, among other improvements.
    Port of San Francisco — $55.39 million: This investment will transition ferry operations along the San Francisco waterfront to zero-emissions, removing 455,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide greenhouse gases and enhancing air quality at the Port of San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area airshed. The project will also connect disadvantaged communities with high-paying employment centers. The funding will deliver a series of projects that will complete the establishment of the first ZE fast ferry network in the country, connecting the two visitor and employment centers of Downtown San Francisco and Mission Bay with the emerging waterfront neighborhood on Treasure Island.
    Port of Hueneme — $42.29 million: The Port of Hueneme Reducing Emissions, Supporting Health (PHRESH) project consists of two components: PHRESH START (Sustainable, Thoughtful And Resilient Transformation), which includes planning activities, and PHRESH AIR (Accelerating Implementation and Results), which involves the deployment of roughly 35 pieces of ZE terminal equipment and a drayage truck incentive program.
    Port of Redwood City — $1.97 million: This project, in partnership with a private entity, includes climate and air quality planning for hydrogen-based fueling and infrastructure.
    Grants from the Zero-Emission Technology Deployment Competition will slash mobile source emissions (criteria pollutants, air toxics, and greenhouse gases) at California ports, while grants from the Climate and Air Quality Planning Competition will fund emissions inventories, strategy analysis, community engagement, and resiliency measure identification to strengthen zero-emissions port operations and reduce air pollution.
    Senator Padilla believes decarbonizing our ports is vital for powering economic growth and protecting public health. Last year, he announced $74.5 million from the Department of Transportation Maritime Administration to decarbonize, upgrade, and rehabilitate key ports along California’s coast. He has consistently pushed for funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for California’s ports, including over $283 million for the Port of Long Beach last year, $94 million in port infrastructure grant funding in 2022, and over $57 million in 2021. Earlier this year, Padilla announced that the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach (San Pedro Ports) will receive more than $112 million through the FY 2024 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan for critical construction upgrades and operations and maintenance activities.
    Last year, Senator Padilla and Representative Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.-44) led 16 California lawmakers in urging EPA Administrator Michael Regan to grant authorization for the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) request for its Ocean-going Vessels At-Berth Regulation, which would reduce air pollution in California and protect the health of millions of people who are impacted by emissions from diesel-powered ships. Additionally, Padilla and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) introduced the Clean Shipping Act of 2023 to reduce air pollution within the shipping industry and protect the health of port communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley: Port of Portland Earns $2.77 Million Federal Award

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 29, 2024
    U.S. EPA invests in Port of Portland through its Clean Ports Program
    Washington D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of $2.77 million toward the Port of Portland’s work to decarbonize as well as improve natural disaster resilience.
    “The Port of Portland plays an integral role in many Oregonians’ travel plans, and also a crucial element for small Oregon businesses who depend on the Port to ship their Oregon-grown goods around the world,” Wyden said. “Ensuring the Port of Portland has the long-term tools it needs to build a strong, resilient port Oregonians can depend on today and into the future is vital for our economy and quality of life.”“Ports are a crucial part of keeping the economies of Oregon and the Pacific Northwest flowing as they move goods throughout our region and export our amazing Oregon products around the world,” said Merkley. “This federal funding will provide crucial support to the Port of Portland’s plans to cut down on pollution and transition to zero-emission operations, a big win in our fight against climate chaos.”
    Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, the funding is through the U.S. EPA’s Clean Ports Program: Climate and Air Quality Planning Competition for the Port of Portland’s Clean Ports Energy Future Roadmap.
    “This funding is a game-changer for planning a greener future at our marine terminals, from zero-emissions equipment to new renewable power and clean fuel options for the vessels our terminals serve,” said Port of Portland Executive Director Curtis Robinhold. “We’re grateful to Senator Merkley and Senator Wyden for their environmental leadership as we create a roadmap for minimizing the carbon footprint of marine shipping operations.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Boost for climate adaptation in Europe as EIB and WWF join forces to develop Nature-based Solutions at scale

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • EIB and WWF will collaborate to mobilise early-stage funding for Nature-based Solutions.
    • Partnership will develop projects to strengthen climate adaptation by working with nature.
    • Accord signed during United Nations Convention on Biodiversity COP16 in Colombia.

    With Europe facing increasingly intense floods and droughts, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and WWF are teaming up to accelerate climate adaptation in Europe by developing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) that will help to buffer societies and economies against the worsening impacts of the climate and biodiversity crises.

    In a Memorandum of Understanding, the EIB and WWF pledged to promote Nature-based Solutions across Europe to tackle the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. Signed during the United Nations Convention on Biodiversity COP16 in Colombia, the four-year partnership will focus on ecosystem restoration projects linked to sectors such as agriculture, energy, and urban resilience, which will harness the power of nature to strengthen climate adaptation in Europe – the fastest-warming continent on Earth.

    By investing in enhancing the health of ecosystems, the projects will also help to reverse nature loss in the continent. The recent WWF Living Planet Report found that species populations have declined by 35 per cent on average in Europe and Central Asia since 1970.

    Under the agreement, WWF will establish an ‘Incubation facility’ to develop a pipeline of Nature-based Solutions from origination until they are investment-ready, while the EIB will provide guidance on mobilising public and private funding for them.

    “Europe’s adaptation to climate change lags far behind what is needed,” said EIB Vice-President, Ambroise Fayolle, ”We want to support more nature-based-solution projects to restore and protect biodiversity and strengthen the climate resilience of our society. Partnerships with organisations like WWF with a strong presence on the ground are a relevant way for us to help deliver tangible results on a large scale.”

    Nature-based solutions face significant obstacles including a lack of awareness among investors and a need for consensus building among a wide range of local players.

    “Nowhere is immune from the climate crisis. Europe has been hit by a series of historic floods and droughts in recent years, devastating lives and livelihoods – and they are only going to get worse unless we urgently and drastically scale up investment in Nature-based Solutions,” said WWF Director General Kirsten Schuijt. “This partnership will do exactly that by creating a pipeline of projects that work with nature rather than against it. These projects will enhance the power of nature to protect Europeans from the worsening impacts of climate change, particularly droughts and extreme floods along the continent’s rivers and coasts.”

    The announcement of this partnership is timely as the new European Commission has announced that it will work on a European Climate Adaptation Plan, which will support building preparedness and planning with regular science-based risk assessments and a European Water Resilience Strategy.

    It also comes after the EU Nature Restoration Law was adopted in August 2024. This regulation combines an overarching restoration objective for the long-term recovery of nature in the EU with binding restoration targets for specific habitats and species.

    Over the years, the EIB has worked with WWF on a range of matters including Nature-based Solutions, biodiversity, climate resilience and ecosystem restoration. Cooperation has focused on the Sustainable Blue Economy Finance Principles, of which the EIB is one of the founding partners alongside WWF. Another example is EIB cooperation with WWF-Greece on stakeholder engagement to identify and develop nature-based solutions for flood resilience in Thessaly, Greece.

    EIB at COP16

    The EIB delegation will be led by Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle. For interview requests with members of the EIB delegation please get in touch with the press contact below. Find out more about EIB at the United Nations Biodiversity Conference here.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It is active in more than 160 countries and makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals.

    As the Climate Bank, the EIB recognises that climate change and nature loss are deeply interconnected and mutually reinforcing environmental crises. The EIB Climate Adaptation Plan builds on the EU Adaptation Strategy, setting out how the EU can adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change. The EIB Environment Framework outlines the EIB’s delivery of environmental sustainability impacts at scale. Mainstreaming nature-positive investments, increasing the co-benefits for nature, protecting biodiversity and managing the risks from biodiversity and nature loss are key elements of the Framework. 

    WWF is one of the world’s largest and most respected independent conservation organizations, with over 5 million supporters and a global network active in over 100 countries. WWF’s mission is to stop the degradation of the earth’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature, by conserving the world’s biological diversity, ensuring that the use of renewable natural resources is sustainable, and promoting the reduction of pollution and wasteful consumption

    Boost for climate adaptation in Europe as EIB and WWF join forces to develop Nature-based Solutions at scale
    Boost for climate adaptation in Europe as EIB and WWF join forces to develop Nature-based Solutions at scale
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    Boost for climate adaptation in Europe as EIB and WWF join forces to develop Nature-based Solutions at scale
    Boost for climate adaptation in Europe as EIB and WWF join forces to develop Nature-based Solutions at scale
    ©EIB
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    Boost for climate adaptation in Europe as EIB and WWF join forces to develop Nature-based Solutions at scale
    Boost for climate adaptation in Europe as EIB and WWF join forces to develop Nature-based Solutions at scale
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Final draft agenda – Wednesday, 13 November 2024 – Brussels

    Source: European Parliament

    1     Resumption of session and order of business
    13   Conclusions of the European Council meetings of October and November 2024
    European Council and Commission statements
    [2024/2783(RSP)]
    15   EU-US relations in the light of the outcome of the US presidential elections
    European Council and Commission statements
    [2024/2904(RSP)]
    4   UN Climate Change Conference 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29)
    Oral question – [2024/2718(RSP)]
             
    Antonio Decaro, Lídia Pereira, Javi López, Emma Wiesner, Lena Schilling, Nikolas Farantouris (O-000010/2024 – B10-0104/24)
    Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
    Council
    2024 UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29)
             
    Antonio Decaro, Lídia Pereira, Javi López, Emma Wiesner, Lena Schilling, Nikolas Farantouris (O-000009/2024 – B10-0105/24)
    Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
    Commission
    2024 UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29)
    16   Fight against money laundering and terrorist financing: listing Russia as a high-risk third country in the EU
    Commission statement
    [2024/2905(RSP)]
    2     One-minute speeches (Rule 179)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan addresses the 20th Formation day function of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan addresses the 20th Formation day function of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in New Delhi

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, creating a disaster-resilient Bharat is a top priority of the Central Government

    Home Secretary launches ‘Yuva Apada Mitra Scheme’ to create 2,37,326 Young volunteers in 315 districts of 28 states across the country as the first responders to disaster preparedness and response

    Union Home Secretary urges the Himalayan and North Eastern Region (NER) states to put up their projects on Glacier Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in consultation with respective Stakeholders as per National Programme on GLOF

    Posted On: 29 OCT 2024 10:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan addressed the 20th Formation day function of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in New Delhi, as Chief Guest, on Monday.

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, creating a disaster-resilient Bharat is a top priority of the Central Government

    Home Secretary also launched ‘Yuva Apada Mitra Scheme’ to create 2,37,326 Young volunteers in 315 districts of 28 states across the country as the first responders to disaster preparedness and response.

    The theme of the formation day event was “Empowering Communities for Disaster Risk Reduction through Awareness for Behavioral Change”. During the event, Union Home Secretary launched seven Guidelines/SOP/Handbook on disaster management viz. (i) Guidelines on Disaster Management Exercises (DMEx) (ii) Guidelines on International Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), (iii) Guidelines for Establishment & Operation of Emergency Operation Center (EOC) (iv) SOP on Off-site Emergency Action Plan (v)Guidelines on CBDRR (vi)Aapda Prabandhan Shabdavali and (iv) Handbook on Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme.

    In his address, Union Home Secretary urged the Himalayan and North Eastern Region (NER) states to put up their projects on Glacier Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in consultation with respective Stakeholders as per National Programme on GLOF.

     

     

    NDMA launched ‘Yuva Apada Mitra Scheme’ to train 2,37,326 Young volunteers from the youth organizations such as National Cadet Corps (NCC), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Bharat Scouts & Guides (BS&G), and National Service Scheme (NSS) in 315 districts of 28 states as a first respondent to disaster preparedness & response and Training of 1,300 trainers  (ToTs) for previously trained  volunteers under the Up-scaling of Aapda Mitra Scheme (UAMS) with the estimated cost of Rs. 469.53 Crore.

     

    ******

    RK / VV / RR / PS

    (Release ID: 2069426) Visitor Counter : 38

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WWF Programme Centre Promotes celebration of Swachh Diwali, Shubh Diwali: A Green, Plastic-Free Festival for a Sustainable Future”

    Source: Government of India

    WWF Programme Centre Promotes celebration of Swachh Diwali, Shubh Diwali: A Green, Plastic-Free Festival for a Sustainable Future”

    Mission LiFE’s Green Diwali: Embracing Clean, Eco-Friendly Celebrations for Lasting Environmental Impact

    Posted On: 29 OCT 2024 6:46PM by PIB Delhi

    The concept of Swachh Diwali Shubh Diwali emphasizes the importance of a clean and eco-friendly celebration that reiterates the core principles of Mission LiFE that aims to protect and preserve the environment, bringing about a pro-planet behavioural change in lifestyle. This initiative aims to instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment and communities by sensitizing and motivating individuals to opt for locally made products, embrace a Diwali free from single-use plastic and prioritize pre and post Diwali cleanliness. By doing so, it seeks to foster a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to the festival.

     

     

    In this context, WWF Programme Centre-Resource Partner, Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, GoI is disseminating awareness about Green Diwali celebration that would symbolize green, clean and plastic free Diwali through an infographic poster that contains a Green Diwali pledge. The mandate of Programme Centre at WWF-India, MoEF&CC is ‘Wildlife Conservation (including species and habitat) using geospatial techniques’. Programme Centre (PC) EIACP (Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building and Livelihood Programme), Resource Partner (RP), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, GoI at WWF-India was set up for collection, collation, storage, retrieval and dissemination of information in order to support and promote research, development and innovation among decision-makers, researchers, academicians, policy planners, research scientists & and other stakeholders.

    This activity highlights a crucial step in integrating environmental consciousness into cultural practices, promoting sustainable festivities, and actively involving citizens in India’s climate agenda. Promoting a green, clean, cracker-free and plastic-free Diwali maintains the spirit of the festival while minimizing environmental impact. It aligns with traditional values of purity, light, and joy, showing that festivals can evolve to become more eco-conscious without compromising their cultural essence. The Green Diwali campaign resonates with India’s commitments under climate change agreements (like the Paris Accord) and sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

    Public participation through pledges encourages community-driven solutions. Individuals who engage with such campaigns may integrate green practices in their lifestyle, fostering long-term environmental stewardship.

    Background

    Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) was launched by the Prime Minister on 20th October, 2022 at Kevadia, Gujarat and focuses on bringing about behaviour changes individuals through simple easy to do actions. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, GoI (MoEF&CC) is the nodal Ministry for national level coordination and implementation of Mission LiFE. As part of their implementation efforts, the ministry has mobilized their activities with LiFE and spread awareness about sustainable actions that individuals can undertake. Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) was also among one of the four important focus sectors of the G-20 Summit.

    As envisioned by Prime Minister at the World Leaders’ Summit in Glasgow at COP26 and launched on 20 October 2022, Mission LiFE aims to follow a three-pronged strategy for changing our collective approach towards sustainability. First is by nudging individuals to practise simple yet effective environment-friendly actions in their daily lives (demand); second is by enabling industries and markets to respond swiftly to the changing demand (supply) and; third is to influence government and industrial policy to support both sustainable consumption and production (policy).

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    VM/GS

    (Release ID: 2069319) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis to Lead Legislation to Replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), along with Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Scott (R-SC), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), and Rick Scott (R-FL), announced plans to introduce legislation that would replenish the Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program. The Senators plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returns to session.

    On October 15th, the SBA announced the Disaster Loan Fund had run out of money. Senator Tillis previously wrote an op-ed in The Hill urging Congress to return and quickly pass a disaster recovery package to replenish the fund, writing in part: “…Few Helene victims have flood insurance, so the SBA’s various disaster recovery programs are key to long-term recovery. By utilizing these programs, victims can access low-interest loans to replace lost property or repair or rebuild their homes or small businesses. The loans can also be used to provide a financial cushion for small businesses that face an economic loss in the months ahead due to the storm.” 

    “The SBA Disaster Loan Program running out of funds risks delays in processing the loans of those affected by Helene and Milton and their ability to get their lives back on track,” said Senator Tillis. “That is why I am leading legislation to replenish this fund when Congress returns to Washington, and I look forward to working across the aisle to pass a long-term disaster aid package that will provide additional resources to help make the victims of these hurricanes whole again.”

    “The citizens of Western North Carolina are some of the toughest and most resilient people in this country,” said Senator Budd. “As they recover and rebuild their communities, they must be able to access disaster loans from SBA. This recovery will take many years, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to cut through the delays and provide WNC with the resources they need as quickly as possible.” 

    “Hurricane Helene brought a level of devastation to South Carolina we haven’t seen since Hugo. With a natural disaster of this magnitude, Congress should take the opportunity to show leadership and help ease the pain of those who have lost everything,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Communities back home and in surrounding states have come together to recover, but it will take every possible effort to get us back to where we were.”

    “Hurricanes Francine, Helene, and Milton hit us hard, but Louisianans and Americans are resilient,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding is essential to help small businesses recover from these storms and support our local economies.”

    “We cannot allow frontline federal agencies, like the SBA, to run out of disaster relief funds. This is especially important in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton which devastated Florida, North Carolina and communities across the Southeast U.S.,” said Senator Rick Scott. “I continue to call on Leader Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate so we can fund disaster relief functions at FEMA, the SBA, USDA and other agencies to get folks what they need and deserve. I won’t stop fighting to get this done and am proud to join my colleagues to introduce a bill that funds SBA disaster loans and makes sure the federal government is a reliable partner as families continue their recovery.” 

    The Restoring an Economic Lifeline with Immediate Emergency Funding (Relief) Act would appropriate $550 million to fund the SBA Disaster Loan Program Account, which would provide $2.475B in lending capacity projected to last until the end of 2024.

    Read text of the bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Budd & Wicker Visit Fort Liberty, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C. — Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) member Ted Budd (R-NC) and Ranking Member Roger Wicker (R-MS) have completed visits to Fort Liberty in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, North Carolina.

    During the visits, they received updates on U.S. Air Force programs, special operations work, and Hurricane Helene response efforts.

    Senator Budd said in a statement:

    “I want to thank Ranking Member Wicker for taking time to visit Fort Liberty and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base this week. During our visit, we thanked troops from the 18th Airborne Corps for their rescue and relief efforts in Western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene, met with leaders from USASOC and JSOC, and dined with servicemembers from North Carolina and Mississippi. At Seymour Johnson, it was my honor to showcase F-15E Strike Eagles and their importance to America’s national security. The Old North State has a proud tradition of supporting our military. That’s why my top priority will always be to make sure the men and women and their families at North Carolina’s military bases have the resources necessary to keep our nation strong and safe.”

    Senator Wicker said:

    “Some of the most important national defense work is happening in North Carolina. It was an honor to meet with some of our country’s best and brightest who are helping their fellow citizens in the wake of Hurricane Helene. During our work on this year’s NDAA, Senator Budd has been a vital legislative contributor by directing the right investments to deter China’s growing aerospace threat. He has used the bill to keep his state’s role central in advancing our country’s fighting force. I am excited to continue collaborating with Senator Budd on our shared goal of restoring America’s military might and defense industrial base.”

    Photo:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Inaugurates, Lays Foundation Stone of several projects and Launches various Health Programmes across 4 Ministries on Dhanvantari Jayanti, significantly enhancing health infrastructure across the country

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Inaugurates, Lays Foundation Stone of several projects and Launches various Health Programmes across 4 Ministries on Dhanvantari Jayanti, significantly enhancing health infrastructure across the country

    Various initiatives amounting to more than Rs. 12,855 Cr, include projects worth more than Rs. 5502 Cr under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare; Rs. 5187 Cr under Dept. of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers; Rs. 1641 under ESIC, Ministry of Labour and Employment and Rs. 525.14 Cr under the Ministry of AYUSH

    Prime Minister Unveils Comprehensive Five-Pillar Health Policy Focused on Preventive Care and Accessibility

    Prime Minister Launches Expansion of Health Coverage under AB-PMJAY for citizens of and above 70 years, at a cost of Rs. 3437 Crore

    Every senior citizen in the country aged 70 and above will receive free hospital treatment through the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card: Prime Minister

    “Health is regarded as the greatest wealth, a concept that is gaining global recognition through Yoga”

    Prime Minister Reiterates Commitment to add 75,000 New MBBS and MD Seats to Meet Rising Demand

    Prime Minister Inaugurates Phase-II of India’s First All India Institute of Ayurveda in New Delhi, Central Drugs Testing Laboratory in Bhubaneswar, Odisha; 3 Government Medical Colleges in Madhya Pradesh; 5 projects under PLI Scheme for medical devices and drugs; 4 Centers of Excellence of AYUSH; and many projects at various AIIMS; Inaugurates ESIC hospital at Indore

    Prime Minister lays Foundation Stone for 5 Nursing Colleges in Madhya Pradesh; 21 Critical Care Blocks under PM-ABHIM in 5 States; 2 Yoga & Naturopathy Institutes in Odisha & Chhattisgarh; upgradation projects at AIIMS New Delhi and Bilaspur; 06 ESI hospitals in 5 States and 4 Centres of Excellence at NIPERs in 4 States

    Prime Minister Launches U-WIN portal for digitalization of Immunization services for pregnant women and children, enhancing access to health services and providing citizens with secure digital identities

    Prime Minister Launches Nationwide Campaign “Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyan” to promote Health Awareness among Citizens

    Posted On: 29 OCT 2024 5:30PM by PIB Delhi

    In a landmark development aimed at strengthening India’s healthcare infrastructure and providing quality healthcare services across the country, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of several health infrastructure projects, and launched various health programmes across the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Ministry of Ayush, Dept. of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, and Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) under Ministry of Labour & Employment at an event at All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), here today. The total outlay of these projects amounts to more than 12,855 cr.

    Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda; Union Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya; Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH and Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav; Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel; Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Smt. Shobha Karandlaje and Shri Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, South Delhi MP (Lok Sabha) were also present on the occasion.

    Today marks 9th ‘Ayurveda Day’, which is celebrated in India and many other countries on the occasion of Dhanvantari Jayanti. It is a day to celebrate the birth of Lord Dhanvantari, God of Ayurveda. Quoting sages and saints, Prime Minister emphasized that “health is regarded as the greatest wealth, a concept that is gaining global recognition through Yoga”. He expressed joy that Ayurveda Diwas is now celebrated in over 150 countries, highlighting the increasing global interest in Ayurveda and India’s ancient contributions to the world.

    Prime Minister said that in the past decade, the country had witnessed beginning of a new chapter in the health sector with amalgamation of knowledge of Ayurveda with Modern medicine, adding that the All India Institute of Ayurveda had been a focal point of this chapter. He noted that it would be possible to see ancient techniques like Panchakarma infused with modern technology in this institute along with advanced research studies in the fields of Ayurveda and medical science.

    Prime Minister underscored that “a nation’s progress is closely linked to the health of its citizens”, outlining the government’s commitment to healthcare through five key pillars: preventive healthcare, early disease detection, affordable treatment and medications, increased doctor availability in smaller towns, and technological advancements in health services. He stated that India’s approach to health is holistic and highlighted recent projects worth over ₹13,000 crores, including four Centers of Excellence under the Ayush Health scheme, drone service expansions, new infrastructure at various AIIMS, and the establishment of medical colleges. He expressed satisfaction with hospitals being built for laborers, which will serve as dedicated treatment centres. The inauguration of pharmaceutical units aimed at manufacturing advanced medicines and quality stents and implants was also mentioned.

    Reflecting on the struggles many families face due to illness, especially in poorer households, Shri Modi noted that people previously had to sell their possessions for medical care. He said that “to alleviate this burden, the government introduced the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which covers up to ₹5 lakh in hospitalization costs for the poor”. He highlighted that around 4 crore individuals have benefited from this scheme, ensuring that they receive treatment without financial strain. He expressed pride in expanding the Ayushman Yojana to include free treatment for all citizens over 70 years old, through the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card, which is universally accessible regardless of income.

    Reiterating the focus on reducing healthcare costs for both the poor and middle class, Prime Minister noted launch of over 14,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras, providing medicines at an 80% discount and saving citizens ₹30,000 crores. He highlighted reductions in the prices of medical devices like stents and knee implants, preventing a loss of over ₹80,000 crores for the public. He also mentioned the free dialysis scheme and the Mission Indradhanush yojana, aimed at preventing severe diseases and protecting mothers and newborns.

    Prime Minister emphasized the importance of timely diagnosis to mitigate health risks and mentioned the establishment of nearly two lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, facilitating early detection of diseases like cancer and diabetes. He noted that these centres help millions access timely treatment, ultimately reducing costs. Additionally, the government is leveraging technology through the e-Sanjeevani scheme, which has enabled over 30 crore online consultations, significantly lowering healthcare expenses. He announced the launch of the U-win platform, enhancing access to health services in India by providing citizens with secure digital identities. The Made-in-India digital platform will benefit 2.9 crore pregnant women and 2.6 crore infants annually by fully digitalising the complete vaccination process. It will ensure the timely administration of life-saving vaccines to women and children (from birth to 16 years) against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s flagship Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).

     

    Prime Minister concluded his address by reflecting on the substantial progress in India’s healthcare over the last decade compared to the previous decades, noting the record establishment of new AIIMS and medical colleges. He cited recent inaugurations in states like Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh, as well as new medical colleges being developed. He assured that the increasing number of hospitals correlates with a rise in medical education opportunities, promising that no child’s dream of becoming a doctor would be hindered by lack of options in India, with nearly 1 lakh new MBBS and MD seats added in the past decade and a commitment to announce an additional 75,000 seats in the next five years.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri JP Nadda said, “the health policy presented today by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has two special features. The first characteristic is that it is holistic; In this, all aspects of preventive, promotional, curative, rehabilitative and palliative have been taken care of. The second feature is that the effort made in bringing all the genres together under one roof is very significant and will always be remembered.”

    He also reiterated that the Union Government will provide a health cover of ₹ 5 lakh to any elderly person above 70 years of age, any woman, any caste, any community, and any area, and will make arrangements for their treatment free of cost, adding that this facility will be available throughout their life.

    Shri Prataprao Jadhav noted that since 2014, Ayurveda’s involvement in global health has gained a new dimension and credited the Prime Minister for his exemplary contribution towards this. He informed that ‘Support Ayurveda’ initiative has been launched with the aim of spreading global awareness of Ayurveda.

    Details of Projects:

    Various projects and facilities falling under the Union Health Ministry amounting to more than Rs. 1133 Cr were inaugurated by the Prime Minister today. These include three Medical Colleges at Mandsaur, Neemuch and Seoni in Madhya Pradesh; facility and service extensions at AIIMS in Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh); Kalyani (West Bengal), Patna (Bihar), Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh), Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), Guwahati (Assam), and New Delhi where a Jan Aushadhi Kendra was inaugurated; a Super Speciality Block in Government Medical Colleges at Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh); a Central Drugs Testing Laboratory (CDTL) in Gothapatna, Bhubaneswar, Odisha and a Critical Care Block in Bargarh, Odisha.

    In addition, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for various health infrastructure projects amounting to more than Rs. 925 cr. These include five Nursing Colleges in Madhya Pradesh (Shivpuri, Ratlam, Khandwa, Rajgarh, and Mandsaur); 21 Critical Care Blocks in states of Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Manipur & Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan under PM-ABHIM; and several facilities and service extensions at AIIMS, New Delhi and AIIMS Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh.

    With the aim of enhancing access to health services in India by providing citizens with fully digitalized immunization services for pregnant women and children and secure digital identities, Prime Minister launched the U-WIN portal today. This Made-in-India digital platform will benefit 2.9 crore pregnant women and 2.6 crore infants annually by fully digitalizing the complete vaccination process. It will ensure the timely administration of life-saving vaccines to pregnant women and children (from birth to 16 years) against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases. As a major addition to the flagship scheme AB PM-JAY, Prime Minister launched expansion of health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 yrs and above, regardless of their income, at a cost of Rs. 3437 crores.  

    To extend the reach of healthcare services to hard-to-reach areas, Prime Minister launched drone services at 11 Tertiary Care Institutions. These are AIIMS Rishikesh (Uttarakhand), AIIMS Bibinagar (Telangana), AIIMS Guwahati (Assam), AIIMS Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), AIIMS Jodhpur (Rajasthan), AIIMS Patna (Bihar), AIIMS Bilaspur (Himachal Pradesh), AIIMS Raebareli (Uttar Pradesh, AIIMS Raipur (Chhattisgarh), RIMS Imphal (Manipur) and AIIMS Mangalagiri (Andhra Pradesh). A Helicopter Emergency Medical Services from AIIMS Rishikesh was also launched which will help to deliver speedy medical care by stabilizing and treating trauma victims during flight and onsite. It will cover Uttarakhand and nearby areas within 100 nautical miles. In addition, Prime Minister launched a portal for Allied Healthcare professionals and institutes. This is a centralized database of existing Allied and Healthcare Professionals and institutes. Moreover, State specific Action Plan on Climate Change and Human Health (SAPCCHH) for each State and UT was also launched, which lays out adaptation strategies towards developing climate resilient healthcare services in these States/UTs.

    Under the Dept. of Pharmaceuticals, five projects under Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for Medical Devices and bulk drugs was inaugurated at Vapi (Gujarat); Sultanpur, (Hyderabad); Bengaluru, (Karnataka); Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh) and Nalagarh (Himachal Pradesh). These units will manufacture high-end medical devices, such as body implants and critical care equipment, along with important bulk drugs like Penicillin-G and Clavulanic Acid. These initiatives support India’s goal of reducing import dependence and enhancing local manufacturing capabilities in medical devices and bulk drugs. Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of four Centres of Excellence at NIPER –Ahmedabad (Gujarat) for Medical Devices; NIPER Hyderabad (Telangana) for Bulk Drugs; NIPER, Guwahati (Assam) for Phytopharmaceuticals; and NIPER – Mohali (Punjab) for Anti-Bacterial Anti-Viral Drug Discovery and Development. The total outlay for the Dept. of Pharmaceutical projects is about Rs. 5187 crores.

    In addition, under Ministry of Labour and Employment, Prime Minister inaugurated a 300 bedded ESIC Hospital which is upgradable to 500 beds at Indore (Madhya Pradesh), and laid the foundation stone for various ESI Hospitals across Faridabad (Haryana), Bommasandra (Karnataka) & Narasapur, Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Meerut (Uttar Pradesh), and Atchutapuram (Andhra Pradesh) at a cumulative cost of Rs 1641 crores. These projects will bring healthcare benefits to 55 lakh ESI beneficiaries.

    Under the Ministry of AYUSH, Prime Minister inaugurated Phase II of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), originally dedicated in 2017, which includes a 150-bedded Panchakarma hospital, an Ayurvedic pharmacy, a sports medicine unit, and extensive accommodation facilities, all at a cost of over ₹289 crores. To enhance India’s health and wellness solutions, he also laid the foundation for two Central Research Institutes in Yoga and Naturopathy in Odisha and Chhattisgarh, and launched four Centers of Excellence focused on diabetes research, sustainable Ayurvedic solutions, Ayurvedic botanical research, and systems medicine for rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, a nationwide health awareness campaign, “Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyan,” was launched with 470,000 volunteers, aiming to revolutionize public health awareness and attempt multiple Guinness World Records.

    ***

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    HFW/PM Launch of Health Initiatives/29th October 2024/1

    (Release ID: 2069266) Visitor Counter : 24

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hotels and Motels Impacted by Hurricane Helene Can Apply to Operate Under Emergency Operations Plans

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Hotels and Motels Impacted by Hurricane Helene Can Apply to Operate Under Emergency Operations Plans

    Hotels and Motels Impacted by Hurricane Helene Can Apply to Operate Under Emergency Operations Plans
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    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and local health departments are working with lodging establishments impacted by Hurricane Helene to help them reopen safely. Hotels and motels are encouraged to submit Emergency Operations Plans to their local health department so they can reopen as quickly as possible while water systems and infrastructure continues to be repaired in western North Carolina.

    “We are working quickly to help businesses get back on their feet following catastrophic damage left behind by Hurricane Helene,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “For either displaced families or tourism, helping hotels reopen is key to supporting recovery in the region.”

    Lodging establishments must have an approved power and electricity source available and also need an approved water source for bathing, hand washing and laundry service.

    Other important elements include: 

    • The facility is free from sewage or wastewater backing up or accumulating on the property
    • The facility must be able to flush toilets or have a contingency plan for flushing toilets
    • Any food or ice prepared using non-potable water will be discarded
    • Water fixtures with a non-potable water source, like ice machines and water fountains, must be turned off with signs posted that water fixtures cannot be used 

    “Hotels and motels not only serve as lodging for people who are visiting, they also help volunteers and people who need temporary housing while their homes are being repaired from storm damage. We are working with our local partners to get places back open safely and as soon as possible,” said NCDHHS State Environmental Health Director Larry Michael.     

    “We appreciate the support of NCDHHS with the issuance of this emergency operations guidance,” said Lynn Minges President and CEO of the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association. “This re-opening guidance will help expedite the reopening of impacted businesses and help facilitate the process of business and economic recovery for the region during this important tourist season.”

    While western North Carolina continues to rebuild following Hurricane Helene, work is underway to get businesses up and running and many have reopened for visitors. Most highways in western North Carolina have reopened but some closures are still in place. If you have travel plans, make sure you check with your lodging establishment and on the status of the roads on your planned route before you travel. 

    The NCDHHS Division of Public Health recently launched a resource for hospitality operators to assist with environmental health and safety requirements. Operators can reach out directly at EHprepardnessquestions@dhhs.nc.gov or call 919-707-5999. For more information about Hurricane Helene and resources available for people who are impacted, please go to ncdhhs.gov/helene and ncdps.gov/helene. 

    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte y los departamentos de salud locales están trabajando con los establecimientos de alojamiento afectados por el huracán Helene para ayudarlos a reabrir de manera segura. Se anima a los hoteles y moteles a presentar los planes operativos de emergencia a su departamento de salud local para que puedan reabrir lo más rápido posible mientras se siguen reparando los sistemas de agua y la infraestructura en el oeste de Carolina del Norte.

    “Estamos trabajando rápidamente para ayudar a las empresas a recuperarse tras los daños catastróficos causados por el huracán Helene”, dijo el secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Kody H. Kinsley. “Para las familias desplazadas o el turismo, ayudar a los hoteles a reabrir es clave para apoyar la recuperación en la región”.

    Los establecimientos de alojamiento deben tener una fuente de energía y electricidad aprobada disponible y también necesitan una fuente de agua aprobada para bañarse, lavarse las manos y para el servicio de lavandería.

    Otros elementos importantes incluyen: 

    • La instalación está libre de aguas negras o aguas residuales que se atascan o acumulan en la propiedad
    • La instalación debe poder descargar los inodoros o tener un plan de contingencia para descargar los inodoros
    • Cualquier alimento o hielo preparado con agua no potable será desechado
    • Los accesorios de agua con una fuente de agua no potable, como máquinas de hielo y fuentes de agua, deben apagarse con carteles que indiquen que no se pueden usar accesorios de agua

    “Los hoteles y moteles no solo sirven de alojamiento para las personas que los visitan, sino que también ayudan a los voluntarios y a las personas que necesitan alojamiento temporal mientras se reparan sus viviendas por los daños causados por las tormentas. Estamos trabajando con nuestros socios locales para que los lugares vuelvan a abrirse de manera segura y lo antes posible”, dijo Larry Michael, director estatal de Salud Ambiental del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés).     

    “Agradecemos el apoyo del NCDHHS con la emisión de esta guía de operaciones de emergencia”, dijo Lynn Minges, presidenta y directora ejecutiva de la Asociación de Restaurantes y Alojamiento de Carolina del Norte. “Esta guía de reapertura ayudará a acelerar la reapertura de las empresas afectadas y ayudará a facilitar el proceso de recuperación comercial y económica de la región durante esta importante temporada turística”.

    Mientras que el oeste de Carolina del Norte continúa reconstruyendo después del huracán Helene, se está trabajando para poner en marcha los negocios y muchos han reabierto para los visitantes. La mayoría de las carreteras en el oeste de Carolina del Norte han reabierto, pero algunos cierres siguen vigentes. Si tiene planes de viaje, asegúrese de consultar con su establecimiento de alojamiento y el estado de las carreteras en su ruta planificada antes de viajar.

    La División de Salud Pública del NCDHHS lanzó recientemente un recurso para proveedores de servicios de hotelería para ayudar con los requisitos de salud y seguridad ambiental. Los operadores de estos servicios pueden comunicarse directamente con EHprepardnessquestions@dhhs.nc.gov o llamar al 919-707-5999. Para obtener más información sobre el huracán Helene y los recursos disponibles para las personas afectadas, visite ncdhhs.gov/helene y ncdps.gov/helene. 

    Oct 29, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Securing $100 Million for Rail Resilience, Rep. Mike Levin Surpasses One Billion Dollars for Projects in California’s 49th Congressional District

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sander Levin (9th District of Michigan)

    October 29, 2024

    Milestone Comes After Less Than Six Years in Office

    Oceanside, CA – Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) announced that he has secured $1.038 billion in total federal funding for 49th Congressional District projects throughout North County San Diego and South Orange County.

    This billion-dollar milestone comes as Rep. Levin helped secure $100 million in new federal funding for the Orange County Transportation Authority’s (OCTA) Coastal Rail Infrastructure Resiliency Project. That funding will go toward improving the safety, resilience, and reliability of the Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor, the second busiest rail corridor in the country. Rep. Levin’s commitment to returning taxpayer dollars back to the district to address priorities is evident in this achievement and comes after less than six years in office.

    “Since joining Congress, I’ve made it my mission to deliver the federal funding necessary to tackle the most pressing issues facing our district,” said Rep. Levin. “These funds have helped us pump over one million cubic yards of sand back onto our beaches. They are helping us access clean water, rebuild our roads and bridges, and make our communities safer. I’m thrilled that in less than six years, I’ve brought more than $1 billion in federal funding to communities in North County San Diego and South Orange County.

    “The $100 million grant for OCTA will go towards safeguarding the LOSSAN Rail Corridor from the devastating effects of climate change and coastal erosion, helping prevent the service disruptions we’ve experienced over the past several years. It will deliver real solutions that will protect the Corridor for years to come.”

    Click here to view a map of the projects and funding Rep. Levin has secured for the district.

    Background on Delivering Funds to Safeguard the LOSSAN Rail Corridor in Orange County

    Over the past two and a half years, a seven-mile stretch of the LOSSAN Rail Corridor running along the coast in South Orange County has repeatedly experienced closures for a cumulative total of over 12 months. Climate-induced storm surges, sea-level rise, and erosion have impacted railroad track movement and slope instability along the LOSSAN Rail Corridor right-of-way, resulting in service disruption to both passenger and freight rail services. These closures have negatively impacted passenger transportation, freight services, and military operations throughout the region.

    Building on prior emergency work experience, OCTA has developed potential proactive solutions to maintain the rail corridor’s existing alignment while safeguarding it against the threats of sea level rise and coastal erosion. The Project will construct resiliency and safety measures to stabilize the track currently threatened by wave action and by landslides from adjacent cliffs. It is anticipated that the Project will utilize engineering and sand nourishment solutions. These measures could assist in preventing future emergencies that would lead to track closures or service interruptions, ensuring the operation of both passenger and freight rail services. Rep. Levin is a strong supporter of efforts to fortify the corridor through beach nourishment.

    The 351-mile LOSSAN Rail Corridor travels through a six-county coastal region in Southern California and is the second busiest intercity passenger rail corridor in the United States and the busiest state-supported Amtrak route. The LOSSAN Rail Corridor service includes 41 stations and more than 150 daily passenger trains. As defined by the Department of Defense, the rail line between Los Angeles and San Diego is designated as part of the Strategic Rail Corridor Network, which consists of key railroad lines important to national defense. The LOSSAN Rail Corridor is a key piece of transportation infrastructure for both California’s 49th Congressional District and the nation.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USAID Announces More Than $57 Million to Drive Agricultural Innovation

    Source: USAID

    The United States, through USAID, committed $57.4 million, working with Congress, to accelerate food security initiatives and advance novel climate-smart agricultural solutions to reduce global hunger, poverty, and undernutrition. Announced at the 2024 World Food Prize Borlaug Dialogue in Iowa, more than $38 million will support Feed the Future – the U.S. government’s global hunger initiative – Innovation Labs.

    The Feed the Future Innovation Lab network, including two newly funded labs, will advance technology development and draw on the expertise of top U.S. universities and host country research institutions to tackle some of the world’s greatest challenges in agriculture and food security. The Climate Resilient Sustainable Intensification lab, led by Kansas State University, will conduct research to develop and adapt technologies that increase agricultural productivity on less land with fewer environmental tradeoffs. At Washington State University, the Veterinary Vaccine Delivery lab will accelerate the development and deployment of cold-chain-independent vaccines for livestock.

    New investments in existing labs include World Coffee Research joining Cornell University to develop improved coffee varieties and the University of Florida partnering with the University of California, Davis to address poultry disease through advances in chicken breeding. Cornell, Purdue, and Michigan State Universities have been awarded extensions to continue work on climate resilient crops, food safety policies and regulations, and local food security policy, respectively.

    The remainder of the funding includes an award to accelerate the development and deployment of disease-resistant wheat varieties through a partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and CIMMYT; a contribution to the Global Crop Diversity Trust to increase the availability of adapted crops and seeds to meet the challenges of new pests and diseases, higher temperatures, less water, and soil degradation; and funding to non-profit Akademiya2063 to support African leadership on agriculture policy reform.

    Feed the Future has continued to deliver strong results, as demonstrated in this year’s newly launched Feed the Future Interagency Report. In the initiative’s first decade both hunger and poverty fell by 20 to 25 percent in areas of focus. In 2023 alone, Feed the Future worked with 6.2 million producers to apply improved agricultural practices on 4.5 million hectares of cropland and cultivated pasture. In addition, small and medium businesses and farmers accessed $1.4 billion in agriculture-related financing and leveraged $677 million in private-sector investment – double the level in fiscal year 2020 – resulting in record sales of more than $4.6 billion. 

    Building on this success, Feed the Future will continue to work with partner countries, donors, and both the public and private sector in the United States and abroad to accelerate transformational change.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Climate Science – Forecasting floods in a fraction of the time with AI – NIWA

    Source: NIWA

    NIWA is using machine learning to forecast flood inundation in a fraction of the time required to run physical models.
    NIWA Climate, Atmosphere & Hazards platform manager Nava Fedaeff leads the project – she says effective flood preparation and response requires detail beyond river flows.
    “What people really want to know is not just whether the river is running high, but what areas will be flooded, and what’s at risk from that potential flooding. We’re exploring how AI will help us to move from weather forecasts to inundation forecasts quickly enough so that useful information gets to those who need it,” said Fedaeff.
    Predicting flood maps with physical models can take 24 hours but with machine learning it takes only 1-2 minutes.
    Five days ahead of an event, scientists combine several elements such as weather forecasting, river flow predictions, inundation mapping and exposure assessments. This enables them to produce models that detail – down to street level – people, property or infrastructure at risk when storms strike.
    NIWA data scientist Dr Deidre Cleland used Westport as a case study in the project.
    She has produced a StoryMap detailing how the system works – with maps, animations and graphics – outlining how her team validated the AI flood model against the real-life 2021 Westport flooding.
    “Our next step is operationalising this machine learning capability so that rapid flood map forecasting is available for a real incoming flood event in Westport. We are also working on extending the machine learning approach to other locations around New Zealand, starting with those at highest risk of flooding,” said Dr Cleland.
    Floods are New Zealand’s most frequent and costly natural disaster, meaning that fast and accurate forecasting of flood impacts is crucial for reducing the risk to life, property and infrastructure.
    This project is part of a $5 million per year package by NIWA to tackle some of New Zealand’s most pressing challenges.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Skyward Specialty Insurance Group Reports Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SKWD) (“Skyward Specialty” or the “Company”) today reported third quarter 2024 net income of $36.7 million, or $0.89 per diluted share, compared to $21.7 million, or $0.57 per diluted share, for the same 2023 period. Net income for the first nine months of 2024 was $104.4 million, or $2.53 per diluted share, compared to $56.7 million, or $1.50 per diluted share, for the same 2023 period.

    Adjusted operating income(1) for the third quarter of 2024 was $29.4 million, or $0.71 per diluted share, compared to $25.0 million, or $0.65 per diluted share, for the same 2023 period. Adjusted operating income(1) for the first nine months of 2024 was $93.4 million, or $2.26 per diluted share, compared to $56.5 million, or $1.49 per diluted share, for the same 2023 period.

    Highlights for the third quarter included:

    • Gross written premiums of $400.0 million an increase of 12.4% compared to the third quarter of 2023.
    • Combined ratio of 92.2% and ex-Cat combined ratio of 89.4% compared to 90.2% and 89.8%, respectively, for the third quarter of 2023.
    • Annualized return on equity of 19.1% through the first nine months of 2024 compared to 15.8% for the same 2023 period.
    • Book value per share of $19.89, an increase of 19% compared to December 31, 2023.
    (1)See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”

    Skyward Specialty Chairman and CEO Andrew Robinson commented, “These past weeks have proven to be a very difficult time and our thoughts continue to be with those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton; I am proud of the extraordinary efforts of our claims team and partners who continue to deliver exceptional service to our customers affected by these catastrophes.”

    “As for our third quarter, our results reflect our continued excellent execution of our “Rule our Niche” strategy, and our disciplined underwriting and our strategic risk management. Our adjusted operating income was up nearly 18% over the prior year quarter, continuing the trend of strong earnings growth we have delivered every quarter as a public company, and our 19.1% annualized return on equity year to date is outstanding. We delivered gross written premiums growth of 12.4% over the prior year quarter while continuing to increase our mix of business to areas that are less exposed to the P&C cycles. Given investments into our business, the momentum building in certain divisions, and with full consideration for the market backdrop, I am confident that we are well positioned to deliver strong growth as we look forward to the coming quarters.”

    Results of Operations

    Underwriting Results

    Premiums                        
    ($ in thousands)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    unaudited     2024       2023     % Change     2024       2023     % Change
    Gross written premiums   $ 400,014     $ 355,732     12.4 %   $ 1,354,877     $ 1,138,224     19.0 %
    Ceded written premiums   $ (131,692 )   $ (75,036 )   75.5 %   $ (502,326 )   $ (441,650 )   13.7 %
    Net retention     67.1 %     78.9 %   NM (1)       62.9 %     61.2 %   NM (1)  
    Net written premiums   $ 268,322     $ 280,696     (4.4 )%   $ 852,551     $ 696,574     22.4 %
    Net earned premiums   $ 269,557     $ 227,033     18.7 %   $ 763,482     $ 604,211     26.4 %
    (1)Not meaningful                        
                             

    The increase in gross written premiums for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024, when compared to the same 2023 periods, was driven by double-digit premium growth primarily from our transactional E&S, programs, captives, surety and global property & agriculture underwriting divisions.

    During the third quarter and first nine months of 2023, the Company cancelled a quota share reinsurance contract. Excluding the impact of the cancellation, net written premiums for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 increased 16.5%(2) and 32.0%(2), respectively, when compared to the same 2023 periods.

    Combined Ratio   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)   2024   2023   2024   2023
    Non-cat loss and LAE(1)   60.6 %   60.7 %   60.6 %   60.9 %
    Cat loss and LAE(1)   2.8 %   0.4 %   1.5 %   1.8 %
    Prior accident year development – LPT(2)   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.2 )%
    Loss Ratio   63.3 %   61.0 %   62.0 %   62.5 %
    Net policy acquisition costs   13.9 %   15.0 %   13.9 %   13.0 %
    Other operating and general expenses   15.7 %   15.1 %   15.8 %   16.3 %
    Commission and fee income   (0.7 )%   (0.9 )%   (0.8 )%   (1.0 )%
    Expense ratio   28.9 %   29.2 %   28.9 %   28.3 %
    Combined ratio   92.2 %   90.2 %   90.9 %   90.8 %
    Ex-Cat Combined Ratio(3)   89.4 %   89.8 %   89.4 %   89.0 %
                     
    Adjusted Underwriting Ratios                
    Adjusted loss ratio(2)   63.4 %   61.1 %   62.1 %   62.7 %
    Expense ratio   28.9 %   29.2 %   28.9 %   28.3 %
    Adjusted combined ratio(2)   92.3 %   90.3 %   91.0 %   91.0 %
    (1)Current accident year
    (2)See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”
    (3)Defined as the combined ratio excluding cat loss and LAE(1)            
                     

    The loss ratios for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 increased 2.3 points and improved 0.5 points, respectively, when compared to the same 2023 periods. The third quarter of 2024 was impacted by higher catastrophe losses, primarily from Hurricanes Helene and Beryl.

    The expense ratios for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 were comparable to the same 2023 periods.

    The expense ratios for all periods presented exclude the impact of IPO related stock compensation and secondary offering expenses, which are reported in other expenses in our condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income.

    Investment Results

    Net Investment Income                
    $ in thousands   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024     2023  
    Short-term investments & cash and cash equivalents   $ 4,537     $ 3,022     $ 13,645   $ 8,007  
    Fixed income     15,458       9,488       41,722     24,867  
    Equities     596       650       1,974     1,332  
    Alternative & strategic investments     (1,070 )     (71 )     2,615     (7,888 )
    Net investment income   $ 19,521     $ 13,089     $ 59,956   $ 26,318  
    Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities still held   $ 8,378     $ (6,391 )   $ 15,609   $ 2,394  
    Net realized gains     1,809       3,407       1,056     934  
    Net investment gains (losses)   $ 10,187     $ (2,984 )   $ 16,665   $ 3,328  
     

    Beginning January 1, 2024 we simplified the investment portfolio classifications to align with our strategy and the underlying risk characteristics of the portfolio. The prior period has been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

    Net investment income for the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 increased $6.4 million and $33.6 million, respectively when compared to the same 2023 periods, primarily driven by increased income from our fixed income portfolio and short-term investments due to higher yields and larger asset bases.

    Stockholders’ Equity

    Stockholders’ equity was $797.5 million at September 30, 2024 which represents an increase of 10.2% when compared to stockholders’ equity of $723.6 million at June 30, 2024. The increase in stockholders’ equity was primarily due to net income and an increase in the market value of our investment portfolio.

    Share Repurchase Authorization

    In October 2024, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $50.0 million of the Company’s common stock.

    Skyward Specialty Chairman and CEO Andrew Robinson commented, “The share repurchase program allows Skyward to opportunistically deploy our capital in an accretive fashion and ultimately drive long-term value creation for our shareholders. Given our strong cash position and financing flexibility, the repurchase program will not limit our ability to support our near-term growth or our flexibility to support ongoing investment in the key growth areas of our business, or to capture additional value creating opportunities.”

    The shares may be repurchased from time to time in open market purchases, privately-negotiated transactions, block purchases, accelerated share repurchase agreements or a combination of methods and pursuant to safe harbors provided by Rule 10b-18 and Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The timing, manner, price and amount of any repurchases under the share repurchase program will be determined by the Company in its discretion. The stock repurchase program does not require the Company to repurchase any specific number of shares, and may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time.

    Conference Call

    At 9:30 a.m. eastern time tomorrow, October 30, 2024, Skyward Specialty management will hold a conference call to discuss quarterly results with insurance industry analysts. Interested parties may listen to the discussion at investors.skywardinsurance.com under Events & Presentations. Additionally, investors can access the earnings call via conference call by registering via the conference link. Users will receive dial-in information and a unique PIN to join the call upon registering.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This release contains certain financial measures and ratios that are not required by, or presented in accordance with, generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). We refer to these measures as “non-GAAP financial measures.” We use these non-GAAP financial measures when planning, monitoring, and evaluating our performance.

    We have chosen to exclude the net impact of the Loss Portfolio Transfer (“LPT”), all development on reserves fully or partially covered by the LPT and amortization of deferred gains associated with recoveries of prior LPT reserve strengthening in certain non-GAAP metrics, where noted, as the business subject to the LPT is not representative of our continuing business strategy. The business subject to the LPT is primarily related to policy years 2017 and prior, was generated and managed under prior leadership, and has either been exited or substantially repositioned during the reevaluation of our portfolio. We consider these non-GAAP financial measures to be useful metrics for our management and investors to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period. While we believe that these non-GAAP financial measures are useful in evaluating our business, this information should be considered supplemental in nature and is not meant to be a substitute for revenue or net income, in each case as recognized in accordance with GAAP. In addition, other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate such measures differently, which reduces their usefulness as comparative measures. For more information regarding these non-GAAP financial measures and a reconciliation of such measures to comparable GAAP financial measures, see the section entitled “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    About Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.

    Skyward Specialty is a rapidly growing and innovative specialty insurance company, delivering commercial property and casualty products and solutions on a non-admitted and admitted basis. The Company operates through eight underwriting divisions – Accident & Health, Captives, Global Property & Agriculture, Industry Solutions, Professional Lines, Programs, Surety and Transactional E&S. SKWD stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, which represents the top fourth of all Nasdaq listed companies.

    Skyward Specialty’s subsidiary insurance companies consist of Houston Specialty Insurance Company, Imperium Insurance Company, Great Midwest Insurance Company, and Oklahoma Specialty Insurance Company. These insurance companies are rated A (Excellent) with stable outlook by A.M. Best Company. Additional information about Skyward Specialty can be found on our website at www.skywardinsurance.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Except for historical information, all other information in this news release consists of forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements are typically, but not always, identified through use of the words “believe,” “expect,” “enable,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “intends,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “predict,” “probable,” “potential,” “possible,” “should,” “continue,” and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, anticipated or implied. The most significant of these uncertainties are described in Skyward Specialty’s Form 10-K, and include (but are not limited to) legislative changes at both the state and federal level, state and federal regulatory rule making promulgations and adjudications, class action litigation involving the insurance industry and judicial decisions affecting claims, policy coverages and the general costs of doing business, the potential loss of key members of our management team or key employees and our ability to attract and retain personnel, the impact of competition on products and pricing, inflation in the costs of the products and services insurance pays for, product development, geographic spread of risk, weather and weather-related events, other types of catastrophic events, our ability to obtain reinsurance coverage at prices and on terms that allow us to transfer risk and adequately protect our company against financial loss, and losses resulting from reinsurance counterparties failing to pay us on reinsurance claims. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise.

    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.

    Investor contact:
    Natalie Schoolcraft,
    nschoolcraft@skywardinsurance.com
    614-494-4988

    or

    Media contact:
    Haley Doughty
    hdoughty@skywardinsurance.com
    713-935-4944

    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets        
    ($ in thousands, except share and per share amounts)        
    (unaudited)   September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Assets        
    Investments:        
    Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $1,359,700 and $1,047,713, respectively)   $ 1,357,500     $ 1,017,651  
    Fixed maturity securities, held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (net of allowance for credit losses of $239 and $329, respectively)     39,321       42,986  
    Equity securities, at fair value     124,719       118,249  
    Mortgage loans, at fair value     36,267       50,070  
    Equity method investments     102,111       110,653  
    Other long-term investments     23,802       3,852  
    Short-term investments, at fair value     206,358       270,226  
    Total investments     1,890,078       1,613,687  
    Cash and cash equivalents     105,573       65,891  
    Restricted cash     45,783       34,445  
    Premiums receivable, net     327,176       179,235  
    Reinsurance recoverables, net     686,725       596,334  
    Ceded unearned premium     236,962       186,121  
    Deferred policy acquisition costs     119,910       91,955  
    Deferred income taxes     18,502       21,991  
    Goodwill and intangible assets, net     87,607       88,435  
    Other assets     80,547       75,341  
    Total assets   $ 3,598,863     $ 2,953,435  
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity        
    Liabilities:        
    Reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses   $ 1,568,777     $ 1,314,501  
    Unearned premiums     692,452       552,532  
    Deferred ceding commission     44,984       37,057  
    Reinsurance and premium payables     200,967       150,156  
    Funds held for others     102,219       58,588  
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     73,001       50,880  
    Notes payable     100,000       50,000  
    Subordinated debt, net of debt issuance costs     18,956       78,690  
    Total liabilities     2,801,356       2,292,404  
    Stockholders’ equity        
    Common stock, $0.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 40,099,931 and 39,863,756 shares issued and outstanding, respectively     401       399  
    Additional paid-in capital     716,095       710,855  
    Stock notes receivable     —       (5,562 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (1,703 )     (22,953 )
    Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)     82,714       (21,708 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     797,507       661,031  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 3,598,863     $ 2,953,435  
             
    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income
    ($ in thousands)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
                     
    Revenues:                
    Net earned premiums   $ 269,557     $ 227,033     $ 763,482     $ 604,211  
    Commission and fee income     1,818       2,085       5,897       5,817  
    Net investment income     19,521       13,089       59,956       26,318  
    Net investment gains (losses)     10,187       (2,984 )     16,665       3,328  
    Other loss     (195 )     —       (202 )     —  
    Total revenues     300,888       239,223       845,798       639,674  
    Expenses:                
    Losses and loss adjustment expenses     170,521       138,536       473,489       377,841  
    Underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses     79,817       68,315       226,270       176,653  
    Interest expense     2,229       2,632       7,405       7,250  
    Amortization expense     351       463       1,099       1,336  
    Other expenses     1,117       1,482       3,350       4,061  
    Total expenses     254,035       211,428       711,613       567,141  
    Income before income taxes     46,853       27,795       134,185       72,533  
    Income tax expense     10,185       6,084       29,763       15,814  
    Net income     36,668       21,711       104,422       56,719  
    Net income attributable to participating securities     —       —       —       1,492  
    Net income attributable to common stockholders   $ 36,668     $ 21,711     $ 104,422     $ 55,227  
    Comprehensive income:                
    Net income   $ 36,668     $ 21,711     $ 104,422     $ 56,719  
    Other comprehensive income:                
    Unrealized gains and losses on investments:                
    Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax     31,396       (8,722 )     24,527       (5,309 )
    Reclassification adjustment for losses on securities no longer held, net of tax     (1,963 )     (3,667 )     (3,277 )     (4,879 )
    Total other comprehensive income (loss)     29,433       (12,389 )     21,250       (10,188 )
    Comprehensive income   $ 66,101     $ 9,322     $ 125,672     $ 46,531  
                     
    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Share and Per Share Data                
    ($ in thousands, except share and per share amounts)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
                     
    Weighted average basic shares     40,098,345       36,743,393       40,039,269       35,502,843  
    Weighted average diluted shares     41,428,557       38,403,843       41,302,108       37,830,431  
                     
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.91     $ 0.59     $ 2.61     $ 1.56  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.89     $ 0.57     $ 2.53     $ 1.50  
    Basic adjusted operating earnings per share   $ 0.73     $ 0.68     $ 2.33     $ 1.55  
    Diluted adjusted operating earnings per share   $ 0.71     $ 0.65     $ 2.26     $ 1.49  
                     
    Annualized ROE (1)     19.3 %     16.4 %     19.1 %     15.8 %
    Annualized adjusted ROE (2)     15.5 %     18.9 %     17.1 %     15.8 %
    Annualized ROTE (3)     21.8 %     19.7 %     21.7 %     19.4 %
    Annualized adjusted ROTE (4)     17.5 %     22.8 %     19.4 %     19.4 %
                     
                September 30   December 31
                  2024       2023  
                     
    Shares outstanding             40,099,931       39,863,756  
    Fully diluted shares outstanding             41,986,881       41,771,854  
                     
    Book value per share           $ 19.89     $ 16.72  
    Fully diluted book value per share           $ 18.99     $ 15.96  
    Fully diluted tangible book value per share           $ 16.91     $ 13.84  
                     
    (1)Annualized ROE is net income expressed on an annualized basis as a percentage of average beginning and ending stockholders’ equity during the period
    (2)Annualized adjusted ROE is adjusted operating income expressed on an annualized basis as a percentage of average beginning and ending stockholders’ equity during the period
    (3)Annualized ROTE is net income expressed on an annualized basis as a percentage of average beginning and ending tangible stockholders’ equity during the period
    (4)Annualized adjusted ROTE is adjusted operating income expressed on an annualized basis as a percentage of average beginning and ending tangible stockholders’ equity during the period

    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Adjusted operating income – We define adjusted operating income as net income excluding the impact of certain items that may not be indicative of underlying business trends, operating results, or future outlook, net of tax impact. We use adjusted operating income as an internal performance measure in the management of our operations because we believe it gives our management and other users of our financial information useful insight into our results of operations and our underlying business performance. Adjusted operating income should not be viewed as a substitute for net income calculated in accordance with GAAP, and other companies may define adjusted operating income differently.        

    ($ in thousands) Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
      Pre-tax   After-tax   Pre-tax   After-tax   Pre-tax   After-tax   Pre-tax   After-tax
    Income as reported $ 46,853     $ 36,668     $ 27,795     $ 21,711     $ 134,185     $ 104,422     $ 72,533     $ 56,719  
    Less (add):                              
    Net investment gains (losses)   10,187       8,048       (2,984 )     (2,357 )     16,665       13,165       3,328       2,629  
    Net impact of loss portfolio transfer   318       251       266       210       800       632       970       766  
    Other loss   (195 )     (154 )     —       —       (202 )     (160 )     —       —  
    Other expenses   (1,117 )     (882 )     (1,482 )     (1,171 )     (3,350 )     (2,647 )     (4,061 )     (3,208 )
    Adjusted operating income $ 37,660     $ 29,405     $ 31,995     $ 25,029     $ 120,272     $ 93,432     $ 72,296     $ 56,532  
                                   


    Quota Share Reinsurance Cancellation     Reconciliation – to exclude the impact of the cancellation of a quota share reinsurance contract on ceded written premiums, net retention, net written premiums and net earned premiums for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023:

      Three months ended September 30,
        2024       2023     %
    (unaudited) As Reported   As Reported   Adjustment   Adjusted   Change
    Ceded written premiums $ (131,692 )   $ (75,036 )   $ (50,462 )   $ (125,498 )   4.9 %
    Net retention   67.1 %     78.9 %         64.7 %   NM (1)
    Net written premiums $ 268,322     $ 280,696     $ (50,462 )   $ 230,234     16.5 %
    Net earned premiums $ 269,557     $ 227,033     $ (13,145 )   $ 213,888     26.0 %
                       
      Nine months ended September 30,
        2024       2023     %
      As Reported   As Reported   Adjustment   Adjusted   Change
    Ceded written premiums $ (502,326 )   $ (441,650 )   $ (50,462 )   $ (492,112 )   2.1 %
    Net retention   62.9 %             56.8 %   NM (1)
    Net written premiums $ 852,551     $ 696,574     $ (50,462 )   $ 646,112     32.0 %
    Net earned premiums $ 763,482     $ 604,211     $ (13,145 )   $ 591,066     29.2 %
                       
    (1)Not meaningful                  
                       


    Underwriting income     – We define underwriting income as net income before income taxes excluding net investment income, net realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments, impairment charges, interest expense, amortization expense and other income and expenses. Underwriting income represents the pre-tax profitability of our underwriting operations and allows us to evaluate our underwriting performance without regard to investment income. We use this metric as we believe it gives our management and other users of our financial information useful insight into our underlying business performance. Underwriting income should not be viewed as a substitute for pre-tax income calculated in accordance with GAAP, and other companies may define underwriting income differently.

    ($ in thousands)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024     2023
    Income before federal income tax expense   $ 46,853     $ 27,795     $ 134,185     $ 72,533
    Add:                
    Interest expense     2,229       2,632       7,405       7,250
    Amortization expense     351       463       1,099       1,336
    Other expenses     1,117       1,482       3,350       4,061
    Less:                
    Net investment income     19,521       13,089       59,956       26,318
    Net investment gains (losses)     10,187       (2,984 )     16,665       3,328
    Other loss     (195 )     —       (202 )     —
    Underwriting income   $ 21,037     $ 22,267     $ 69,620     $ 55,534
                     


    Adjusted Loss Ratio / Adjusted Combined Ratio     – We define adjusted loss ratio and adjusted combined ratio as the corresponding ratio (calculated in accordance with GAAP), excluding losses and LAE related to the LPT and all development on reserves fully or partially covered by the LPT and amortization of deferred gains associated with recoveries of prior LPT reserve strengthening. We use these adjusted ratios as internal performance measures in the management of our operations because we believe they give our management and other users of our financial information useful insight into our results of operations and our underlying business performance. Our adjusted loss ratio and adjusted combined ratio should not be viewed as substitutes for our loss ratio and combined ratio, respectively.

    ($ in thousands)   Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    (unaudited)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net earned premiums   $ 269,557     $ 227,033     $ 763,482     $ 604,211  
                     
    Losses and LAE     170,521       138,536       473,489       377,841  
    Less: Pre-tax net impact of LPT     (318 )     (266 )     (800 )     (970 )
    Adjusted losses and LAE   $ 170,839     $ 138,802     $ 474,289     $ 378,811  
                     
    Loss ratio     63.3 %     61.0 %     62.0 %     62.5 %
    Less: net impact of LPT   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.2 )%
    Adjusted loss ratio     63.4 %     61.1 %     62.1 %     62.7 %
                     
    Combined ratio     92.2 %     90.2 %     90.9 %     90.8 %
    Less: net impact of LPT   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.1 )%   (0.2 )%
    Adjusted combined ratio     92.3 %     90.3 %     91.0 %     91.0 %
                     

    Tangible Stockholders’ Equity – We define tangible stockholders’ equity as stockholders’ equity less goodwill and intangible assets. Our definition of tangible stockholders’ equity may not be comparable to that of other companies and should not be viewed as a substitute for stockholders’ equity calculated in accordance with GAAP. We use tangible stockholders’ equity internally to evaluate the strength of our balance sheet and to compare returns relative to this measure.

    ($ in thousands)   September 30,   December 31,
    (unaudited)   2024   2023   2023
    Stockholders’ equity   $ 797,507   $ 535,397   $ 661,031
    Less: Goodwill and intangible assets     87,607     88,808     88,435
    Tangible stockholders’ equity   $ 709,900   $ 446,589   $ 572,596
                 

    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.
    Gross Written Premiums by Underwriting Division (Unaudited)

        Three months ended September 30,   Nine months ended September 30,
    ($ in thousands)   2024   2023   % Change   2024   2023   % Change
    Global Property & Agriculture   $ 54,360   $ 48,775   11.5 %   $ 279,721   $ 247,195   13.2 %
    Industry Solutions     74,089     79,798   (7.2 )%     236,460     226,680   4.3 %
    Captives     53,630     41,886   28.0 %     184,137     127,249   44.7 %
    Programs     54,434     41,735   30.4 %     166,256     143,032   16.2 %
    Transactional E&S     44,885     30,699   46.2 %     132,791     90,948   46.0 %
    Accident & Health     43,490     39,554   10.0 %     128,479     112,819   13.9 %
    Professional Lines     40,310     48,259   (16.5 )%     120,655     114,420   5.4 %
    Surety     34,816     24,977   39.4 %     106,395     75,899   40.2 %
    Total gross written premiums(1)   $ 400,014   $ 355,683   12.5 %   $ 1,354,894   $ 1,138,242   19.0 %
    (1)Excludes exited business                        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: ‘Y’all Aboard!’: The return of Amtrak to the Gulf Coast

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Secretary Pete Buttigieg joined local leaders in Mobile, Alabama, for the groundbreaking of the Gulf Coast Corridor Improvement project, which was awarded a $178 million CRISI grant in a previous round of funding from the Biden-Harris Administration. Once completed, the project will restore passenger service between Mobile and New Orleans for the first time since Hurricane Katrina devastated the region in 2005.

    In this “Investing in America” video, we highlight the Gulf Coast Corridor Improvement project and the impact the restored rail route will have in the region.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qc5ut75YNUs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams Help Survivors in North Carolina

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    A Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) agent talks about her experience with helping Hurricane Helene Survivors in Swannanoa, North Carolina. DSA agents help connect survivors with essential resources, guidance, and support throughout the recovery process.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyEK1dqxB5s

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Global: New insights from Shakespeare’s England reveal striking parallels to contemporary climate change

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Madeline Bassnett, Professor of Early Modern English Literature, Western University

    Unprecedented storms and devastating drought. Flash floods and wildfires ignited by the air’s dry heat. This is the experience for many in our modern world. But it was also the experience for those living amid England’s Little Ice Age.

    The Little Ice Age is a period from around 1300 to 1850, when global temperatures dropped significantly. While the exact cause of this phenonemon is unknown, theories range from volcanic eruptions to European colonization of the Americas.

    Our research into England’s Little Ice Age during the 16th and 17th centuries has unearthed more than 1,800 unique pieces of weather observations, hidden in documents like diaries and letters. Local and national chronicles embedded reports of extreme weather among accounts of war and monarchs. Extreme weather pamphlets publicized tragic effects of earthquakes, floods and storms, much like our media today.

    Our team has created an open access database called the Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700. This database visually maps both extreme and temperate weather in the age of Shakespeare and can help to advance modern climate science.

    More fundamentally, these experiential accounts provide a fascinating window into a world not too different from our own. While the causes of the climate change of today are well known, and likely different from that of the Little Ice Age, the experiences of living through both events are at times eerily similar. Understanding these past experiences can help us to better understand our present day and to develop more robust policies in the here and now.



    Read more:
    The Canadian Arctic shows how understanding the effects of climate change requires long-term vision

    Frosts and freezes

    Frost fairs on the River Thames have become a familiar cultural reference point for England’s Little Ice Age. Our data shows that the river froze over a mere four times in the 16th century — in 1516, 1537, 1564 and 1590 — and there were only intermittent observations of unusual cold or snow.

    The 17th century was markedly different. Reports of cold came thick and fast, with the exception of a few years between 1620 and 1643.

    Title page from The Great Frost: ‘Cold doings in London, except it be at the lotterie. With newes out of the country. A familiar talk betwene a country-man and a citizen touching this terrible frost and the great lotterie, and the effects of them.’ Printed at London: For Henry Gosson, 1608. Attributed to Thomas Dekker.
    (Houghton Library, Harvard University)

    This was the century of frost fairs on the Thames. With the first 17th century fair in 1608, these events were celebrated by English playwright Thomas Dekker in his pamphlet The Great Frost.

    Drinking, barbering and games were on display as London’s citizens marvelled at the novelty of entertainment on the ice. The freezes were frequent enough to become an institution.

    By the winter of 1683-1684, the frost fair had become a city within a city, expanding across the ice with avenues of booths, bear and bull-baiting rings and boats-turned-chariots pulled by enterprising watermen across the now solid river.

    But these iconic events were just one aspect of Little Ice Age weather in England.

    Storms and floods

    In the 16th century, severe rain storms were far more common than cold snaps.

    On Oct. 5, 1570, “a terrible tempest of wind and raine” caused flooding from Lincolnshire to London as rivers overflowed their banks, drowning towns, fields, crops and cattle. Storm surges inundated the coastline.

    Four years later, towns from Newport to St. Ives suffered “raging floods,” and a “giant sea fish” (whale) washed up in the Thames from a massive surge up river. In May 1594, “soddane showres of haile [and] raine” destroyed houses, iron mills, crops and cattle in Sussex and Surrey. September of that year saw another deluge, with bridges taken down in Cambridge and Ware.

    This all changed in the 17th century, following the Great Flood that struck Bristol and surrounding areas in 1607. Extreme cold spells then became more frequent, and major storm events were less common. The winter of 1612-1613 saw a number of violent storms recorded in the pamphlet Wonders of this Windie Winter, with livestock lost from Newcastle to Dover and bodies from shipwrecks washing aground in the Thames.

    In the next 40 years, though, only the years of 1626 and 1637 contain reports of significant storm events causing loss of life or livestock. Instead of extreme storms, this century was marked more by regular but moderate rainfall, consistent with colder, wetter conditions normally associated with the Little Ice Age.

    Fire and heat

    If colder, wetter weather was a new normal for 17th century Britons, the hot, dry spring of 1666 caught Londoners unprepared. The Great Fire of London was one of the worst disasters of the age, and diarist John Evelyn recounts that “the heate … had even ignited the aire,” a comment reminiscent of descriptions of wildfire spread today.

    Yet periods of extreme heat were surprisingly frequent during the previous century, especially in the England that Shakespeare knew. More than a dozen droughts were recorded across England in the 16th century, usually broken by extreme storms or floods. It never rained, it seems, but it poured. The Thames dried up completely in 1592.

    As Thomas Short wrote in his Chronological History of English Weather, “an excessive drought, great death of cattle from want of water; springs and brooks were dried up; horsemen could ride the Thames.” Locals went into the mud to retrieve items long lost to the river.

    Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon was nearly destroyed by fire twice, in 1594 and 1595, due to severe drought and heat. The warning signs were there for Londoners to beware of hot spells in the next century, but frost fairs and wet weather may have bred complacency.

    Lessons for today

    The Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700 database is revealing a picture of the world of Shakespeare and early modern England that upends a simplified picture of the Little Ice Age. More than just a world of frosts and freezes, the English Little Ice Age could be known as well as an age of fire and rain.



    Read more:
    The B.C. election could decide the future of the province’s species at risk laws

    The documents in our database are the reports of people who lived in a climatically changing world and saw its shifts firsthand. It shows how important weather crowd-sourcing can be, even centuries later. Contemporary projects like the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, or the Northern Tornadoes Project, continue in the spirit of this work.

    But our data could also provide insight into today’s extreme weather. Historical flooding patterns might provide reference points to better manage and understand the unstable weather experienced in the British Isles today.

    Madeline Bassnett has received funding from SSHRC for the Weather Extremes in England’s Little Ice Age 1500-1700 project.

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

    – ref. New insights from Shakespeare’s England reveal striking parallels to contemporary climate change – https://theconversation.com/new-insights-from-shakespeares-england-reveal-striking-parallels-to-contemporary-climate-change-240755

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Good news for the Páramos at COP16

    Source: CAF Development Bank of Latin America

    CAF -development bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, with the support of Cumbres Blancas, positioned itself at the COP16 in Cali as the first multilateral institution to address the protection of the páramos with a comprehensive vision that seeks not only environmental conservation, but also the improvement of the quality of life of local communities that depend on these ecosystems.

    High mountain ecosystems, especially páramos, play a fundamental role in environmental sustainability and the well-being of millions of people. However, climate change, unsustainable land use and other human activities are seriously threatening these strategic ecosystems.

    In this context, the páramos, which are found exclusively in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela, are recognized as the most biodiverse high mountain ecosystems in the world. They are home to more than 35,000 species of plants and vertebrates, ranking first in diversity of birds, mammals and amphibians, and second in reptiles. In addition, these ecosystems provide critical services to more than 60 million people who depend directly on their resources, including water and energy supply for cities such as Bogotá, Quito, and Cuenca.

    The alliance with Cumbres Blancas reflects the institution’s commitment to promote concrete actions for the restoration and protection of the páramos, and aims to develop initiatives such as the construction of community nurseries, the creation of green employment capacities, and the restoration of watersheds, which are vital to guarantee access to drinking water and energy in these regions.

    CAF’s strategic actions in the páramos are aimed not only at mitigating the impacts of climate change, but also at fostering the resilience of the communities living in these territories. Community nurseries, for example, will be a fundamental tool for restoring native flora and reforesting degraded areas. In addition, the creation of green jobs in sectors such as sustainable agriculture and natural resource management will directly contribute to improving the socioeconomic conditions of local populations.

    Alicia Montalvo, CAF’s Climate Action and Positive Biodiversity Manager, said, “The challenge we face is not only to protect the biodiversity of the páramos, but to translate our knowledge and efforts into concrete actions to ensure their preservation. Our collaboration with ACTO and other institutions is key to obtaining accurate data and coordinating regional efforts, ensuring that resources are optimally invested where they are most needed.

    CAF has already launched several initiatives in the region, ranging from ecological restoration to the promotion of sustainable bio-businesses. One of the most outstanding examples is the work being carried out with the 56 Puruhá indigenous communities of the Cotopaxi páramo, in Ecuador, through a bio-business project promoted together with the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), the Ministry of the Environment and the Heifer Foundation. This project aims to strengthen the organic quinoa production chain and improve the socioeconomic conditions of more than 600 families.

    In addition, CAF is promoting, in collaboration with the GEF, a project that seeks to reduce the climate risk affecting paramo populations in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. This initiative will directly benefit more than 360,000 people, improving the capacity to adapt to climate change in these vulnerable areas. The goal is to ensure that these strategic ecosystems can continue to provide vital services to local populations.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program Following Hurricanes Francine, Helene, Milton

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Rick Scott (R-FL) announced plans to introduce the Restoring an Economic Lifeline with Immediate Emergency Funding (Relief) Act that would replenish the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program. On October 15th, the SBA announced the Disaster Loan Fund had run out of money. The senators plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returns to session.
    “Hurricanes Francine, Helene, and Milton hit us hard, but Louisianans and Americans are resilient,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding is essential to help small businesses recover from these storms and support our local economies.”
    “The SBA Disaster Loan Program running out of funds risks delays in processing the loans of those affected by Helene and Milton and their ability to get their lives back on track,” said Senator Tillis. “That is why I am leading legislation to replenish this fund when Congress returns to Washington, and I look forward to working across the aisle to pass a long-term disaster aid package that will provide additional resources to help make the victims of these hurricanes whole again. ”
    “The citizens of Western North Carolina are some of the toughest and most resilient people in this country,” said Senator Budd. “As they recover and rebuild their communities, they must be able to access disaster loans from SBA. This recovery will take many years, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to cut through the delays and provide WNC with the resources they need as quickly as possible.”
    “Hurricane Helene brought a level of devastation to South Carolina we haven’t seen since Hugo. With a natural disaster of this magnitude, Congress should take the opportunity to show leadership and help ease the pain of those who have lost everything,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Communities back home and in surrounding states have come together to recover, but it will take every possible effort to get us back to where we were.”
    “We cannot allow frontline federal agencies, like the SBA, to run out of disaster relief funds. This is especially important in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton which devastated Florida, North Carolina and communities across the Southeast U.S,” said Senator Rick Scott. “I continue to call on Leader Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate so we can fund disaster relief functions at FEMA, the SBA, USDA and other agencies to get folks what they need and deserve. I won’t stop fighting to get this done and am proud to join my colleagues to introduce a bill that funds SBA disaster loans and makes sure the federal government is a reliable partner as families continue their recovery.”
    The Relief Act would appropriate $550 million to fund the SBA Disaster Loan Program Account, which would provide $2.475B in lending capacity projected to last until the end of 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –