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Category: Weather

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Apr 23, 2025 Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook Issued on Apr 23, 2025

    Updated: Wed Apr 23 08:17:02 UTC 2025

     .

    D4
    Sat, Apr 26, 2025 – Sun, Apr 27, 2025
    D7
    Tue, Apr 29, 2025 – Wed, Apr 30, 2025

    D5
    Sun, Apr 27, 2025 – Mon, Apr 28, 2025
    D8
    Wed, Apr 30, 2025 – Thu, May 01, 2025

    D6
    Mon, Apr 28, 2025 – Tue, Apr 29, 2025
    (All days are valid from 12 UTC – 12 UTC the following day)

    Note: A severe weather area depicted in the Day 4-8 period indicates 15%, 30% or higher probability for severe thunderstorms within 25 miles of any point.

    PREDICTABILITY TOO LOW is used to indicate severe storms may be possible based on some model scenarios. However, the location or occurrence of severe storms are in doubt due to: 1) large differences in the deterministic model solutions, 2) large spread in the ensemble guidance, and/or 3) minimal run-to-run continuity.

    POTENTIAL TOO LOW means the threat for a regional area of organized severe storms appears unlikely (i.e., less than 15%) for the forecast day.

     Forecast Discussion

    ZCZC SPCSWOD48 ALL
    ACUS48 KWNS 230815
    SPC AC 230815

    Day 4-8 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0315 AM CDT Wed Apr 23 2025

    Valid 261200Z – 011200Z

    …DISCUSSION…
    …Days 5-7/Sun-Tue — Great Plains to the Midwest…

    Forecast guidance is in good agreement that a deepening upper trough
    over the western states will eject eastward across the Plains and
    Midwest early next week. Beginning Day 5/Sun, the upper trough will
    extend from the central Rockies to the Southwest, with a belt of
    strong southeasterly flow emerging over the central/southern High
    Plains Sunday night. Surface lee low development is forecast over
    the northern/central Plains Sunday afternoon, with the low moving
    into SD/NE by Monday morning. Southerly low-level flow will
    transport ample moisture northward across the Plains and Mid-MO
    Valley on Sunday, with a sharpening dryline extending southward from
    western NE into western TX. Some severe potential could develop
    along the dryline and near the surface low/triple point. However,
    forecast soundings maintain strong capping and any convective
    development could be rather sparse. For now, this will preclude
    severe probabilities for Day 5/Sun.

    On Day 6/Mon, the upper trough will continue eastward, moving into
    the Plains by Tuesday morning. Ahead of the trough, a belt of strong
    southwesterly flow aloft will extend from OK into the Upper Midwest.
    A deepening surface low over SD will shift east/northeast through
    the period, with a trailing cold front shifting east/southeast
    across the Plains. Rich boundary layer moisture within a moderate to
    strongly unstable airmass and favorable shear parameter space will
    support an all-hazards severe weather episode across a fairly broad
    area from OK to MN/WI Monday afternoon into Monday night.

    Severe potential is likely to continue into Day 7/Tue, though some
    differences within medium range guidance with the evolution of the
    upper trough and key surface features does result in a bit more
    uncertainty compared to Monday, especially on the eastward extent of
    severe potential. Nevertheless, strong forcing atop a broad warm
    sector ahead of an eastward advancing cold front will continue to
    support severe potential from northeast Texas into Lower MI.

    ..Leitman.. 04/23/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS48 PTSD48 PRODUCT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Wed Apr 23 12:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Wed Apr 23 12:02:07 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: From UConn to the White House: A Conversation with Anita McBride ’81 (CLAS)

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Anita McBride ’81 (CLAS) has spent decades working alongside some of the most influential women in American government: the first ladies who shaped national conversations both in the spotlight and behind the scenes.

    This spring, McBride returned to UConn to share what she’s learned with students in the College’s Women’s Leadership Collective and First-Generation Mentorship Program, offering candid reflections on leadership, resilience, and public service.

    “Anita McBride’s career reflects the many directions a UConn education can take you,” says Ofer Harel, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. “Her visit gave students a valuable opportunity to hear how mentorship and public service have shaped her path — and how they might shape their own.”

    A veteran of three presidential administrations, McBride held senior roles under Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush. As chief of staff to First Lady Laura Bush, she directed initiatives in global health, education, literacy, women’s empowerment, and historic preservation, and led diplomatic travel to 67 countries.

    Today, she serves as executive-in-residence at American University’s Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies, where she leads the First Ladies Initiative. She is also a founding member of the First Ladies Association for Research and Education and sits on the board of the White House Historical Association.

    McBride is the co-author of the first-ever textbook on first ladies, “U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies”; its public-market adaptation, “Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women”; and a recent children’s book she co-wrote with her daughter, “First Ladies Make History.”

    “Anita’s keynote brought lived experience, insight, and a sense of purpose that resonated with everyone in the room,” says Jessica Alexander, associate director of alumni relations for CLAS. “Our mentorship programs create meaningful connections between students and alumni.”

    UConn Today caught up with McBride to discuss her path from UConn to the White House, and what she’s learned from a career at the highest levels of American government.

    What advice do you have for first-generation students navigating college life and what comes after?

    There is no one path — It’s constantly changing and moving. You need to be open to changes.

    I came to UConn knowing exactly what I wanted to do. I was pre-med — until I failed. It was the first time I’d been hit with failure. I went to meet with an advisor, and while I was there, I saw a sign for a new study abroad program in Italy. I grew up in an Italian immigrant household, so I figured this might be a way for me to reset my academic path and also see where my family came from. I applied and was accepted.

    It was the most transformative experience of my life on so many levels. I just gained so much confidence. I’m a big believer in fate, so walking into that building that day and seeing that sign, something about it felt so familiar.

    It’s scary to make a real pivot like that — and it wasn’t the last one I’ve made. When you go into politics, you never know what’s coming from one day to the next. The person you work for can win or lose. You’re in, you’re out. There’s a lot to navigate. What got me through all those changes was the belief that there’s always a new opportunity.

    How did UConn prepare you for success?

    UConn helped me navigate some turns, pivots, and challenges. It was a formative time for me. I built friendships that I still hold close today. It gave me a platform to make choices and changes, and I’ve always appreciated that.

    I’ve never really left my experience at UConn behind — I’ve just carried it with me and have used it in different ways throughout my life.

    You’re considered one of the foremost experts on U.S. first ladies. How did you become interested in this subject?

    I had a front-row seat to history, watching this position up close in three administrations, with Nancy Reagan, Barbara Bush, and Laura Bush. It’s a powerful platform, despite having no official authority, position description, salary, or mention in the Constitution. I really appreciated the impact they could have, and that they’re not required to do anything with the role if they choose not to.

    After I left the White House, the president of American University met with me and expressed interest in developing a program to study the growing influence of first ladies. That conversation led me to launch a conference series on the legacies of first ladies that eventually grew into an established academic initiative at American University. It covers their influence not only on the president, but on the presidency and the White House in general.

    Who, in your opinion, is the most influential first lady?

    Eleanor Roosevelt, bar none. She held the role for 12 years — longer than anyone else — and came in highly educated, politically active, and already in the public eye. She gave paid speeches, had a radio show, and wrote a daily newspaper column before becoming First Lady.

    Her husband didn’t want her to have a public role, but she pushed back. She held press conferences for female reporters, who were excluded from the president’s briefings, and gave them a platform during a critical time for women in journalism.

    She also took controversial stances, especially on civil and human rights. When the Daughters of the American Revolution refused to let [renowned Black opera singer] Marian Anderson perform at Constitution Hall, Roosevelt not only resigned from the group, but she also helped arrange Anderson’s now-historic performance at the Lincoln Memorial.

    These were bold steps. She didn’t get everything right and was controversial, but she set a standard for activism that went unmatched for a long time.

    What inspired you to write a children’s book, and what do you hope young readers will take away from it?

    The children’s book grew out of my academic work. I initially set out to fill a gap in the literature with a textbook, highlighting the contributions of first ladies — often unsung and underappreciated.

    Turning it into a children’s book was an exciting new challenge, especially because I did it with my daughter, who is studying to be an elementary school teacher. She had her own front-row seat to history — watching me work and having some exposure to the White House. Together, we adapted the stories from my book for children and worked with an illustrator. I brought the content, and she helped shape it for a young audience.

    For me, this book is about civic education. If we want people to truly understand and care about our history, we have to start at an earlier age. As divided as we are right now, I still believe this is one of the best systems of government — and it’s up to all of us to be part of it.

    You’ve served several presidential administrations. What’s one thing that sticks with you about that experience?

    I’ve met a lot of people in politics with different views. But one of the most lasting lessons I learned came from Laura Bush, the First Lady to former President George W. Bush, who served from 2001 to 2009 during a very turbulent time. Those eight years included two wars, the Sept. 11 attacks, Hurricane Katrina, and the economic collapse. Her husband faced a lot of criticism, and I’d often ask her how she handled it.

    She never took the political bait. She kept things calm and steady, no matter the pressure. If she was disappointed, you could tell — but she expressed it with quiet resolve, she used her voice but didn’t raise her voice.

    What she taught me was this: In public service, you can’t take criticism personally. She would say, “I know who George is. We know who we are as a family. That’s what gets us through.” That mindset has stayed with me. In politics, you have to realize that not everyone will agree with you.

    It’s a challenging time, both economically and politically. What advice do you have for students on how to succeed through the challenges?

    Be respectful of other people’s opinions. Try and not respond in a way that’s adversarial, even if that’s what you see all around you. You don’t have to be that person.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA thanks Saint Christopher and Nevis National Assembly for passing resolution endorsing Taiwan’s participation in international organizations

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA thanks Saint Christopher and Nevis National Assembly for passing resolution endorsing Taiwan’s participation in international organizations

    • Date：2025-04-18
    • Data Source：Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs

    April 18, 2025  

    No. 101  

    The National Assembly of Saint Christopher and Nevis on April 17 adopted a resolution proposed by Prime Minister Terrance Drew that endorsed Taiwan’s participation in the United Nations, the World Health Organization, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the International Criminal Police Organization, and the International Civil Aviation Organization. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) sincerely appreciates the staunch and unwavering support and friendship that parliamentarians from governing and opposition parties of Saint Christopher and Nevis have shown toward Taiwan through concrete action. 

     

    The resolution pointed out that Saint Christopher and Nevis parliamentarians, as members of the Formosa Club, cherished their country’s diplomatic ties with Taiwan. It stated that over the years the two nations had built a robust friendship based on shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The resolution lauded Taiwan for its contributions to global public health and recognized Taiwan’s efforts and actions in such fields as renewable energy, climate change adaptation, disaster warning systems, the fight against transnational crime, and the development of international civil aviation. It urged all sectors to support Taiwan’s professional, pragmatic, and constructive participation in the United Nations and other international organizations. 

     

    This marks the third consecutive year that the National Assembly of Saint Christopher and Nevis has passed a Taiwan-friendly resolution, underscoring the close and friendly diplomatic alliance between the two countries. Taiwan will continue to work with Saint Christopher and Nevis and other allies and like-minded nations to make even greater contributions to peace, security, and sustainable development across the globe. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa braces for heavy rain and cold weather conditions

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, April 23, 2025

    Heavy rain and cold weather conditions are expected this week, as a cut-off low weather system sweeps across most parts of the country.

    According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), a cut-off low system is expected to make landfall over the western interior of South Africa on Wednesday, 23 April 2025, and move slowly eastwards, likely to exit the country by Saturday, 26 April 2025.

    “Scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers are expected over the central and eastern parts of the country, with rainfall accumulations exceeding 50 mm in the eastern regions on Wednesday and Thursday, 23 and 24 April 2025.

    “Severe thunderstorms associated with flooding of roads and settlements, as well as damage or loss of infrastructure, property, vehicles, livelihoods, and livestock, especially over the Free State and North West. There is also a distinct possibility of damaging hail occurring in association with the thunderstorms,” the SAWS said in a statement.

    Snowfalls are also expected over the Drakensberg mountains in Lesotho, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape during this period. 

    In addition, daytime temperatures are expected to drop significantly across most parts of the country from Wednesday, with a gradual recovery from Friday onwards. 

    The South African Weather Service said it will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates, as required. 

    Intermediate updates may be followed on X (@SAWeatherServic), Facebook (South African Weather Service) or other SAWS-supported social media platforms. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 4.22.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 22, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:

    Claire Cullis, of Carmichael, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Business and Consumer Relations at the California Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency. Cullis has been Chief of Staff to the First Partner in the Governor’s Office since 2021. She was Founder of Claire Cullis Consulting, LLC from 2018 to 2021. Cullis was the Executive Director of the Institute for Democracy and Justice from 2018 to 2021. She was the Director of Dignitary and Speaker Engagement at the Global Climate Action Summit for the United Nations Foundation in 2018. Cullis was a Consultant to the Special Olympics for the Austria Winter World Games in 2017. She held multiple positions at the United States Department of the Treasury from 2013 to 2017, including Director of Scheduling, Advance, and Administration, and Associate Director of Scheduling and Advance for the Treasury Secretary. Cullis was an Advance Associate at The White House from 2013 to 2017. She was Deputy Parade Director at the Presidential Inaugural Committee from 2012 to 2013. Cullis was National Advance Staff for Obama for America in 2012. She was a Senior Associate at the Dewey Square Group from 2006 to 2012. She was a Teacher at the Japanese Exchange and Teaching Program from 2005 to 2006. Cullis was National Advance Staff for the John Kerry presidential campaign in 2004. Cullis earned her Master of Business Administration degree from Virginia Tech, and her Bachelor of the Arts degree in International Studies and Studio Art from the University of Iowa. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $195,564. Cullis is a Democrat.

    Sophia Carrillo, of Santa Monica, has been appointed Assistant General Counsel of Enforcement at the California Environmental Protection Agency. Carrillo was an Assistant United States Attorney at the United States Attorney’s Office, Central District of California from 2023 to 2025. She was a Deputy Attorney General at the California Department of Justice from 2019 to 2023. Carrillo was a Judicial Law Clerk at the United States District Court, Eastern District of California from 2018 to 2019. She was an Associate Director of the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Appointments/D.C. Human Resources at the Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser in 2015. Carrillo is a member of the Latino Community Foundation’s Los Angeles Giving Circle. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from Stanford Law School and a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Political Science and Sociology from the University of San Diego. This position does not require Senate confirmation and compensation is $174,000. Carrillo is a Democrat. 

    Iris “Marlene” De La O, of Berkeley, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Public Policy at the California Environmental Protection Agency. De La O held several positions at Chemonics International from 2021 to 2025, including Senior Partnerships Manager and Director of Climate Change and Resiliency. She was the Director of Resiliency and Acquisitions at the Department of Housing, Preservation, and Development in 2019. De La O was Deputy Director at the California Strategic Growth Council from 2017 to 2018. She was a Consultant at Inter-American Development Bank from 2015 to 2016. De La O was a Manager and Regional Contracts Specialist at Chemonics International from 2012 to 2015. She earned a Master of Public Policy degree in City Planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Development Studies from the University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and compensation is $175,512. De La O is a Democrat.

    Adam Ebrahim, of Carmichael, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Ebrahim has been the Senior Director of Policy and Continuous Improvement at the Commission on Teacher Credentialing since 2024. He was the Principal Consultant at Azimuth Learning Partners from 2016 to 2024. Ebrahim was the Director of Education Strategy at Parsec Education in 2024. He was a Staff Consultant at the California Teachers Association from 2020 to 2024. Ebrahim was the Director of Local Control and Accountability Plan and Continuous Improvement at San Juan Unified School District from 2019 to 2020. He was a Project Director at Californians Dedicated to Education Foundation from 2016 to 2019. Ebrahim was a Staff Consultant at Fresno County Superintendent of Schools from 2015 to 2016. He was a Teacher at Fresno Unified School District from 2010 to 2015. Ebrahim was an Enlisted Soldier and Commissioned Officer at the California Army National Guard from 2007 to 2012. He received his Master of Education degree in United States Education in a Global Context from National University, a Master of Arts degree in International Affairs from Washington University in Saint Louis, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $181,344. Ebrahim is a Democrat.

    Vanessa Ejike, of Cerritos, has been appointed to the State Board of Education. Ejike was a Poll Worker for the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk and an Intern for Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva in the California State Assembly in 2024. She is the National Partnerships Director for the High School Democrats of America, Local Affairs Director for California High School Democrats, Communications Coordinator for the Pacific Coast Coalition of Girl Up USA, Student Representative for the Legislative and Policy Committee at the ABC Unified School District, and Founder and Chair of the Principal’s Advisory Council at Gretchen Whitney High School. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Ejike is not registered to vote. 

    Niki Woodard, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of Communications and External Affairs at the California Energy Commission. Woodard has been the Senior Communications Officer at Resources Legacy Fund since 2019. She was the Deputy Assistant Director at the California Department of Water Resources from 2016 to 2019. Woodard was the Communications and Marketing Director at the Center for Climate Protection from 2015 to 2016. She was Founder and Principal of Spiral-PR from 2011 to 2016. Woodard was the Communications Director at Sequoia Riverlands Trust from 2008 to 2011. She was a Research Associate at the Pew Research Center from 2006 to 2008. Woodard earned a Master of the Arts degree in Communications from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of the Arts degrees in Rhetoric and Economics from the University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and compensation is $160,968. Woodard is a Democrat.

    Lee Herrick, of Fresno, has been reappointed California’s Poet Laureate, where he has served since 2022. Herrick has been an English Professor at Fresno City college since 1997 and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe since 2012. He was the Poet Laureate of the City of Fresno from 2015 to 2017. Herrick was an Adjunct English Professor at Modesto Junior College from 1995 to 1997. He is the Founder of LitHop and an Advisory Board Member of Terrain.org, Sixteen Rivers Press, and Anacapa review, and a Member of the Association of Writers and Writing Programs. Herrick earned a Master of Arts degree in English, Composition and Rhetoric and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and American Literature from California State University, Stanislaus. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the California Arts Council provides an annual stipend. Herrick is a Democrat.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Governor and First Partner marked Earth Day at Chico State University with students from the Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Resilient Systems. CHICO –  Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom celebrated…

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: Classes resumed in person at Palisades Charter High School today at a new temporary site in Santa Monica. All eight public schools that were damaged in the fires are now back to learning in person. LOS ANGELES – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom…

    Apr 22, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Cradle-to-Career Data System displays key milestones in students’ experience over time and provides insights about education and career pathways. Sacramento, California – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a first-of-its-kind…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Greece: The EIB Advisory supports Growthfund in strengthening climate resilience of Greek ports

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • EIB Advisory assists Growthfund in assessing climate risks for key ports in Greece.
    • EIB provides targeted advisory services as part of its commitment to sustainable infrastructure investments.
    • Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessments (CRVAs) will help ports protect against potential climate-change related hazards.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) will provide advisory support to Growthfund, Greece’s National Investment Fund, to help strengthen the climate resilience of key Greek ports. This initiative will focus on conducting Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessments (CRVAs) for the ports of Volos, Alexandroupoli, and Patras, supporting their adaptation to climate change challenges.

    Under the agreement, EIB Advisory will assist the corresponding port authorities in identifying and addressing physical climate risks which could impact port infrastructure and operations, such as coastal flooding, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events.  These assessments will help define specific adaptation measures to enhance long-term sustainability and economic resilience.

    “Ports are critical for Greece’s economy and connectivity, but they face increasing risks due to climate change,” said EIB Vice-President Ioannis Tsakiris. “By working with Growthfund, we aim to provide structured assessments and strategic solutions to protect vital port infrastructure and ensure its long-term viability.”

    Panagiotis Stampoulidis, Deputy CEO of Growthfund, referred to the cooperation between Growthfund and the EIB as the second substantial partnership between the two institutions, which further strengthens their contribution to the development of public infrastructure by making services more competitive and sustainable. “Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, and ports — as critical infrastructure for the Greek economy, society, and the country’s connectivity — are at the forefront of this challenge. Our collaboration with the Advisory Services of the European Investment Bank is fully aligned with Growthfund’s strategic planning to strengthen key public infrastructure.

    Through targeted Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessments (CRVAs), we aim to ensure that the ports of Volos, Alexandroupolis, and Patras are better protected against extreme weather events and the broader effects of the climate crisis.

    Growthfund, leveraging its international network, technical expertise, and alignment with European best practices, actively contributes to the creation of a more sustainable and resilient development model for the country.”

     A key step in climate-proofing infrastructure

    The advisory support will be structured around three key tasks:

    • Baseline assessment: analysing climate data and historical extreme weather events affecting the selected ports.
    • Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA): identifying climate risks, assessing their impact, and proposing adaptation measures.
    • Financial impact assessment: estimating how climate risks could affect operational costs, revenues, and investment needs.

    The project aligns with EU climate policies and best practices, including the European Commission’s Technical Guidance on Climate Proofing Infrastructure and PIANC’s guidelines for climate adaptation in ports and waterways.

    The EIB’s commitment to sustainable development

    The agreement reinforces the EIB’s role as the EU Climate Bank, supporting investments that build resilience and promote sustainable infrastructure. Through its advisory services, the EIB helps public and private stakeholders overcome investment barriers, ensuring that climate-proofing measures are both effective and financially viable.

    Background information

    EIB  

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. 

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.   

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.   

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers.Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average. 

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    Greece: The EIB Advisory supports Growthfund in strengthening climate resilience of Greek ports
    Greece: The EIB Advisory supports Growthfund in strengthening climate resilience of Greek ports
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    Greece: The EIB Advisory supports Growthfund in strengthening climate resilience of Greek ports
    Greece: The EIB Advisory supports Growthfund in strengthening climate resilience of Greek ports
    ©EIB
    Download original
    Greece: The EIB Advisory supports Growthfund in strengthening climate resilience of Greek ports
    Greece: The EIB Advisory supports Growthfund in strengthening climate resilience of Greek ports
    ©EIB
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Statement at the conclusion of the State Visit of Prime Minister to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 23 APR 2025 12:44PM by PIB Delhi

    “A Historic Friendship; A Partnership for Progress”

    At the invitation of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Hon’ble Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Shri Narendra Modi paid a State Visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on April 22, 2025.

    This was Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s third visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It followed the historic State Visit of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s visit to India in September 2023 to participate in the G-20 Summit and co-chair the first meeting of the India- Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council.

    His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at Al-Salam Palace, Jeddah.They held official talks, during which they recalled the strong bonds of historically close friendship between the Republic of India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. India and Saudi Arabia enjoy a strong relationship and close people-to-people ties marked by trust and goodwill. The two sides noted that the solid foundation of the bilateral relationship between the two nations has further strengthened through the strategic partnership covering diverse areas including defense, security, energy, trade, investment, technology, agriculture, culture, health, education, and people-to-people ties. Both sides also exchanged views on current regional and international issues of mutual interest.

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi congratulated HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Saudi Arabia’s successful bids for World Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034.

    The two leaders held constructive discussions on ways to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The two leaders also co-chaired the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC). The two sides reviewed the progress of the Strategic Partnership Council since their last meeting in September 2023. Both leaders expressed their satisfaction with the outcomes of the work of the two Ministerial Committees, namely: (a) the Committee on Political, Security, Social and Cultural Cooperation and their subcommittees and (b) the Committee on Economy and Investment and their Joint Working Groups, in diverse fields. In this context, the Co-Chairs of the Council welcomed the expansion of the Strategic Partnership Council to four Ministerial Committees reflecting the deepening of the Strategic Partnership, by addition of the Ministerial Committees on Defence Cooperation, and Tourism and Cultural Cooperation. The two leaders noted with appreciation the large number of high-level visits across various Ministries that have built trust and mutual understanding on both sides. At the end of the Meeting, the two leaders signed the Minutes of the Second Meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council.

    The Indian side expressed its appreciation to the Saudi side for the continuing welfare of around 2.7 million Indian nationals residing in the Kingdom, reflecting the strong people- to-people bonds and immense goodwill that exists between the two nations. The Indian side also congratulated Saudi Arabia for successfully holding the Haj pilgrimage in 2024 and expressed its appreciation for the excellent coordination between the two countries in facilitating Indian Haj and Umrah pilgrims.

    Both sides welcomed the growth of the economic relationship, trade and investment ties between India and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in recent years. The Indian side congratulated the Saudi side for progress achieved on the goals under Vision 2030. Saudi side expressed appreciation for India’s sustained economic growth and the goal of Viksit Bharat or becoming a developed country by 2047. Both sides agreed to work together in areas of mutual interests to fulfill respective national goals and achieve shared prosperity.

    Both Leaders noted with satisfaction the progress made in the discussions under the High-Level Task Force (HLTF), constituted in 2024 for promoting investment flows between the two countries. Building on the endeavor of Saudi Arabia to invest in India in multiple areas including energy, petrochemicals, infrastructure, technology, fintech, digital infrastructure, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and health, it was noted that the High-Level Task Force came to an understanding in multiple areas which will rapidly promote such investment flows. They noted the agreement in the High-Level Task Force to collaborate on establishing two refineries. The progress made by this Task Force in areas such as taxation was also a major breakthrough for greater cooperation in the future. The two sides affirmed their desire to complete negotiations on the Bilateral Investment Treaty at the earliest. The Indian side appreciated the launch of India Desk at the Public Investment Fund (PIF) to act as the nodal point for investment facilitation by PIF. They observed that work of the High-Level Task Force underscores the growing economic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia focusing on mutual economic growth and collaborative investments.

    The two sides affirmed their commitment to strengthening their direct and indirect investment partnership. They commended the outcomes of the Saudi-India Investment Forum, held in New Delhi in September 2023, and the active cooperation it achieved between the public and private sectors from both countries. They also commended the expansion of investment activities by Indian companies in the Kingdom, and appreciated the role of the private sector in enhancing mutual investments.The two sides valued the activation of the Framework of Cooperation on Enhancing Bilateral Investment between Invest India and Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia. Both sides agreed to facilitate enhanced bilateral cooperation in the startup ecosystem, contributing to mutual growth and innovation.

    In the field of Energy, the Indian side agreed to work with the Kingdom to enhance the stability of global oil markets and to balance global energy market dynamics. They emphasized the need to ensure security of supply for all energy sources in global markets. They agreed on the importance of enhancing cooperation in several areas in the energy sector, including the supply of crude oil and its derivatives including LPG, collaboration in India’s Strategic Reserve Program, joint projects across the refining and petrochemical sector, including manufacturing and specialized industries, innovative uses of hydrocarbons, electricity, and renewable energy, including completing the detailed joint study for electrical interconnection between the two countries, exchanging expertise in the fields of grid automation, grid connectivity, electrical grid security and resilience, and renewable energy projects and energy storage technologies, and enhancing the participation of companies from both sides in implementing their projects.

    The two sides emphasized the importance of cooperation in the field of green/clean hydrogen, including stimulating demand, developing hydrogen transport and storage technologies, exchanging expertise and experiences to implement best practices. The two sides also acknowledged the need to work on developing supply chains and projects linked to the energy sector, enabling cooperation between companies, enhancing cooperation in the field of energy efficiency and rationalizing energy consumption in the buildings, industry, and transportation sectors, and raising awareness of its importance.

    With regard to climate change, both sides reaffirmed the importance of adhering to the principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, and the need to develop and implement climate agreements with a focus on emissions rather than sources. The Indian side commended the Kingdom’s launch of the “Saudi Green Initiative” and the “Middle East Green Initiative”and expressed its support for the Kingdom’s efforts in the field of climate change. The two sides stressed the importance of joint cooperation to develop applications of the circular carbon economy by promoting policies that use the circular carbon economy as a tool to manage emissions and achieve climate change objectives.The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia appreciated India’s contributions to global climate action by pioneering initiatives like International Solar Alliance, One Sun-One World-One Grid, Coalition of Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) and Global Green Credit Initiative.

    Both sides expressed satisfaction at the steady growth in bilateral trade in recent years with India being the second largest trading partner for Saudi Arabia; and Saudi Arabia being India’s fifth largest trading partner in 2023-2024. Both sides agreed to further enhance co-operation to diversify their bilateral trade. In this regard, both sides agreed on the importance of increasing visits of business and trade delegations, and holding trade and investment events. Both sides reiterated their desire for commencing negotiations on the India-GCC FTA.

    The two sides appreciated the deepening of the defence ties as a key pillar of the Strategic Partnership, and welcomed the creation of a Ministerial Committee on Defence Cooperation under the Strategic Partnership Council. They noted with satisfaction the growth of their joint defence cooperation including numerous ‘firsts’ like the first ever Land Forces exercise SADA TANSEEQ, two rounds of the Naval Exercises AL MOHED AL HINDI, many high-level visits, and training exchanges, towards ensuring the security and stability of the region. They welcomed the outcomes of the 6th meeting of the Joint Committee on Defence Cooperation held in Riyadh in September 2024, noting the initiation of staff-level talks between all three services. Both sides also agreed to enhance defence industry collaboration.

    Noting the continuing cooperation achieved in security fields, both sides highlighted the importance of this cooperation for better security and stability. They also emphasized the importance of furthering cooperation between both sides in the areas of cybersecurity, maritime border security, combating transnational crime, narcotics and drug trafficking.

    Both sides strongly condemned the gruesome terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, which claimed the lives of innocent civilians. In this context, the two sides condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, and emphasized that this remains one of the gravest threats to humanity. They agreed that there cannot be any justification for any act of terror for any reason whatsoever. They rejected any attempt to link terrorism to any particular race, religion or culture. They welcomed the excellent cooperation between the two sides in counter-terrorism and the terror financing. They condemned cross-border terrorism, and called on all States to reject the use of terrorism against other countries, dismantle terrorism infrastructure where it exists, and bring perpetrators of terrorism to justice swiftly. Both sides stressed the need to prevent access to weapons including missiles and drones to commit terrorist acts against other countries.

    The two sides noted the ongoing cooperation in field of health and efforts to combat current and future health risks and health challenges. In this context, they welcomed the signing of the MOU on Cooperation in the Field of Health between the two countries. The Indian side congratulated the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for successfully hosting the Fourth Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance in Jeddah in November 2024. Indian side welcomed the initiatives taken by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority to address issues related to reference pricing and fast track registration of Indian drugs in Saudi Arabia. Both sides also welcomed the extension of the MoU on Co-operation in the Field of Medical Products Regulation between Saudi Food and Drug Authority and Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) for a further period of five years.

    Both sides underscored the importance of co-operation in technology including in new and emerging domains such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, semi-conductors etc. Highlighting the importance of digital governance,both sides agreed to explore collaboration in this area. They also expressed satisfaction on signing of the MOU between Telecom Regulatory Authority of India and Communications, Space and Technology Commission of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for cooperation in regulatory and digital sectors.

    Both sides noted that the MoU on space cooperation signed during this visit will pave the way for enhanced cooperation in the field of space, including utilization of launch vehicles, spacecraft, ground systems; applications of space technology; research and development; academic engagement and entrepreneurship.

    Both sides noted the growth of cultural cooperation between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of India through active engagement in key sectors such as heritage, film, literature, and performing and visual arts. The creation of a Ministerial Committee on Tourism and Cultural Cooperation under the Strategic Partnership Council marks a significant step toward deepening this partnership.

    Both sides also agreed to enhance cooperation in tourism including through capacity building and sustainable tourism. They also noted the expansion of various opportunities in media, entertainment, and sports, supported by the strong people-to-people ties between the two countries.

    Both sides appreciated the long-standing cooperation between the two countries in the areas of agriculture and food security, including trade of fertilizers. They agreed to pursue long-term agreements for the security of supply, mutual investments and joint projects towards building long-term strategic cooperation in this area.

    The two sides commended the growing momentum in educational and scientific collaboration between the two countries, underscoring its strategic importance in fostering innovation, capacity building, and sustainable development. The Saudi side welcomes the opportunities for leading Indian universities to have presence in Saudi Arabia.The two sides also stressed the value of expanding cooperation in labour and human resources and identifying opportunities for collaboration.

    Both sides recalled the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Principles of an India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor along with other countries in September 2023 during the state visit of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to India and expressed mutual commitment to work together to realize the vision of connectivity as envisaged in the Corridor, including the development of infrastructure that includes railways and port linkages to increase the passage of goods and services, and boost trade among stakeholders, and enhance data connectivity and electrical grid interconnectivity. In this regard, both sides welcomed the progress under the MoU on Electrical Interconnections, Clean/Green Hydrogen and Supply Chains signed in October 2023. Both sides also expressed satisfaction on the increase in shipping lines between the two countries.

    The two sides stressed the importance of enhancing cooperation and coordination between the two countries in international organizations and forums, including the G20, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank, to bolster efforts to address the challenges facing the global economy. They commended the existing cooperation between them within the Common Framework for Debt Treatment Beyond the Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI), which was endorsed by the G20 leaders at the Riyadh Summit 2020. They stressed the importance of enhancing the implementation of the Common Framework as the main and most comprehensive platform for coordination between official creditors (developing country creditors and Paris Club creditors) and the private sector to address the debt of eligible countries.

    The two sides affirmed their full support for the international and regional efforts aimed at reaching a comprehensive political solution to the crisis in Yemen. The Indian side appreciated the Kingdom’s many initiatives aimed at encouraging dialogue between the Yemeni parties, and its role in providing and facilitating access of humanitarian aid to all regions of Yemen. The Saudi side also appreciated the Indian effort in providing humanitarian aid to Yemen.The two sides agreed on the importance of cooperation to promote ways to ensure the security and safety of waterways and freedom of navigation in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

    The following MoUs were signed during the visit:

    • MoU between Department of Space, India, and Saudi Space Agency in the field of space activities for peaceful purposes.

    • MoU between Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Republic of India and Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia & on Cooperation in the Field of Health.

    • Bilateral Agreement between Department of Posts, India and Saudi Post Corporation (SPL) for inward foreign surface parcel.

    • MOU between National Anti-Doping Agency of India (NADA), India, and Saudi Arabia Anti-Doping Committee (SAADC) for cooperation in the field of anti-doping and prevention.

    Both sides agreed to hold the next meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council on a date mutually agreed upon. As the two nations march ahead with economic and social developments in their respective countries, they also decided, that they will continue communication, coordination and cooperation across various sectors.

    At the end of the visit, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for the warm reception and generous hospitality extended to him and his accompanying delegation. He also conveyed his best wishes for continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. For his part, His Royal Highness extended his sincere wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the friendly people of India for further progress and prosperity.

    ***

    MJPS/VJ

    (Release ID: 2123722) Visitor Counter : 170

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EV EDUCATION LAUNCHED IN TOP VOCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN SAMOA, ALONG WITH NEW DECARBONIZATION PLANS

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    [PRESS RELEASE 08 April 2025] – A significant educational milestone has been reached, with the opening of electric vehicles (EV) automotive workshops in three vocational institutions in Samoa, namely the National University of Samoa, Don Bosco Technical Centre, and Laumua o Puna’oa Technical College.

    These workshops will be supported by the incorporation of an EV mechanics curriculum as a Professional Continuing Training (PCT) programme of these schools, pending the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding soon.

    These will equip students with essential knowledge and skills in EV automotive and electrical fields, preparing them to become certified EV mechanics, and laying the foundation for integrating EV training into national education.

    These were highlighted today at a ceremony at Don Bosco, Alafua, which also celebrated the launch of the Transport and Infrastructure Sector Decarbonization Strategy and Sustainable Land Use and Mobility Plan, with Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, doing the honours.

    “Transport is a key enabler of connectivity — supporting trade, employment, education, and healthcare. Yet, it is also one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions in Samoa. The importance of these Plans are clear: it ensures that Samoa remains steadfast in its commitment to transitioning to a lower-carbon future. It encompasses new legislation, policy changes, financing initiatives, and interventions to support our transportation needs in a way that minimizes environmental harm while ensuring that future generations benefit from enhanced mobility,” said Olo Fiti Afoa Vaai, Minister for the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure.

    These new developments have all been made possible under the CAP-IT Project – Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport – which aims to facilitate Samoa’s transition to a more clean and sustainable transport sector.

    The project is funded by the Government of Japan, and jointly implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Government of Samoa through the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure.

    “Japan is proud to support Samoa’s long-term journey towards a cleaner, more resilient transport sector. By advancing policies, building skills, and providing infrastructure through the CAP-IT project, we are investing in a sustainable future led by Samoa’s youth and powered by innovation,” said Ryotaro Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan to Samoa.

    The Transport Sector Decarbonization Strategy and Sustainable Land Use and Mobility Plan will guide Samoa’s transition from fossil fuel dependency to a decarbonized transport sector. This shift will not only reduce carbon emissions but also improve transport services, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable Samoa.

    “The long-term benefits of these initiatives extend far beyond environmental stewardship. They create jobs, empower our youth, and open new economic opportunities in the burgeoning field of sustainable transport. UNDP remains steadfast in supporting Samoa’s capacity-building efforts, fostering innovation, and implementing policies that drive systemic change in our transport sector,” said Aliona Niculita, UNDP Resident Representative in Samoa.

    The CAP-IT project is a component of the Japan-funded US$36.8 million regional project, ‘Promoting Green Transformation in the Pacific Region towards Net-zero and Climate-Resilient Development’, also supporting Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Vanuatu in achieving their green transformation ambitions for a more inclusive, climate-resilient future.

    END.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Structural solutions for financing TenneT

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    News item | 17-04-2025 | 16:35

    The government is going to issue a guarantee to TenneT Nederland. This will enable the high-voltage grid operator to continue investing in the Dutch electricity network through attractive loans. Two options are being considered for the financing of the German branch of TenneT: a private share issue or an initial public offering. This will provide structural solutions for the financing needs of TenneT Netherlands and Germany, as ministers Heinen (Finance) and Hermans (Climate and Green Growth) write in a letter to the Parliament. All financial aspects have been incorporated into the Spring Budget.

    A well-functioning transmission grid and access to electricity are essential for Dutch households and businesses. Expansion and reinforcement of the electricity grid are necessary to meet the growing demand. This requires major investments; TenneT Netherlands is expected to invest some 90 billion euros over the next ten years. The government has decided to issue a guarantee to ensure that TenneT Netherlands can finance this investment. This will enable TenneT Netherlands to take out loans with the same credit rating as the Dutch state (AAA). This means that loans can be obtained on the capital market under better conditions – and therefore more cheaply. This approach means that no additional capital contributions from the state are necessary. The intention to provide a guarantee is included in the Spring Budget 2025. This will be submitted to parliament.

    For TenneT Germany, where substantial investments are also needed in the coming years, the government has chosen private funding. An initial public offering or private share issuance are the two options currently under consideration. Interest among private investors will be explored in the coming months and a decision will be made before the summer which option implemented further.

    The proposed structural solutions changes TenneT’s financing structure. At the moment, TenneT raises its debt through TenneT Holding and lends it to TenneT Netherlands and TenneT Germany. In the future, the debt will be raised separately by TenneT Netherlands and TenneT Germany. All existing bondholders will be asked to agree to the transfer of the debt to TenneT Netherlands in exchange for a one-time compensation. In doing so, TenneT is working on a future-proof financing structure. If there is insufficient interest among private investors in participating in TenneT Germany or the debt restructuring does not succeed, the Dutch state will itself provide the capital needed by TenneT Germany. A reservation has therefore been included in the national budget. The Dutch state is hereby acting as a responsible shareholder.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Todos, todos, todos

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    He’ll come back again, I muttered as I declined a friend’s invitation to see Pope Francis when he visited the University of Sto. Tomas in 2015. There was good reason to believe he would. Being one of two predominantly Catholic countries in Asia, the Philippines would certainly be a prime place for a liberal-leaning pope to visit. That confidence was also masked by a certain hubris that I might find myself in Rome one of these days, looking up at St. Peter’s Square. So his sudden death brings more regrets than questions; a certainty that I missed the mark and did not see Christ’s representative in the flesh.

    Having been raised Catholic, the life of the Church was always like a familiar plaza. There was as much friendship as there was gossip, and it was a place to cultivate not only one’s faith but also the sense of community that is so important with the Church. In a sense, I was also brought up in the more traditional track of Catholicism, and this was also reflected in my theological interests during graduate studies. Looking back, it seemed all the more strange that I would refuse an opportunity to see the Pope. Perhaps there was something stirring inside me, a subconscious feeling that made it difficult for me to embrace the Church.

    Francis, in many ways, represented a perceived break—a moment of irruption in the unified vision of the Church. One could remember the fear in his eyes when he was presented to the world for the first time in strikingly simple garb. There was something uncanny about him when he was addressing the crowd. Why couldn’t I shake off the feeling of discomfort? Being Jesuit-educated, I should understand this simplicity, but for some reason, there was what Karl Rahner called “the unsolved remainder” that lingered long after the pomp and excitement of Francis’s election.

    And it became more and more apparent as Francis slowly broke down what I thought was the Church, often in gentle ways. From admitting—to a Haiyan survivor—the failure of human reason amidst unspeakable suffering, to kissing the feet of inmates in Regina Coeli prison in Rome every Maundy Thursday, Francis’s brand of Church-building was one of humility.

    The Franciscan brand of humility was never far away from radical unity. In order for the Church to be truly itself, she had to go back to her roots, a Church that called for the liberation of the oppressed, that swung open the doors of secrecy, that loved everyone—todos, todos, todos—regardless of orientation, belief, background, or status. The roots of the Church, Francis pressed, had to go where there was a real chance it would not grow and then eventually rot away. The fringes and the frontlines where God seemingly has abandoned humanity: among the wastelands of war, famine, and communities flattened by extreme weather, and even in the most personal and intimate encounters of the deafening silence of God.

    Perhaps it was the reaching out to the margins that terrified me, because spiritually, I’ve found myself in those dark corners especially in the last few years. Perhaps I felt seen and heard, and I did not want to be because I refused to admit that all I heard was silence. Because such is the nature of the dark night–it creeps up silently, etching away the facade of one’s faith. It then becomes like an irresistible itch that one unconsciously scratches, preventing any kind of healing. Paradoxically, it is only ever in this kind of darkness and silence that the God of Francis’s teaching fully reveals His power, the power of pure presence, and this presence had a name: mercy.

    That was probably the unsolved remainder: a God that offered no world-changing reason for the problems of humanity, no quick fixes to the climate crisis, no easy answers to the suffering of the innocent. A God that simply announces Himself as Herself in the midst of the world’s brokenness, with the complete honesty that nothing will ever fully address the weight of suffering. Francis represented that simple, honest, and all-embracing mercy, and that disturbed me, because little did I know that I was the one being ministered to.

    Perhaps that was what Francis really tried to teach: to be able to have the confidence to confront even the darkest questions, mustering up the courage to face the world’s problems with nothing more than the quiet assurance that God will never leave. This conviction probably annoyed me because it was easier said than done. It probably angered me too as it didn’t offer the kind of solutions our world has been accustomed to.

    The urgency is much more pressing in a world that is slowly crumbling away from the excesses of the rich and powerful, who continue to prioritize greed and self-interest over the life of the planet, and who foment hate towards those that are not like them. Could you believe that? The “answer” to all these overwhelming problems was to be silent and sit by someone and cry with them?

    Maybe it was less of an answer and more of a signpost towards a starting point. That, to meet and commune with those who have suffered, what was required was to refrain from immediately offering solutions and open oneself up to the simple power of presence. In many ways it is also a slap on my face: working in an environmental NGO, one gets lost in the urgency of the calls, for instance, to make polluters pay, and one forgets the truly essential starting point of mercy. One gets addicted to the thrill of campaigning, and one neglects the unsolved remainder that will always result from the calculus of the climate crisis. Perhaps the starting point in addressing the climate crisis is on the level of fear and trembling with others, where words fail and presence remains the only acceptable response. Much like the silence that envelops a household swept away by a storm surge, and no amount of campaigning will ever repay or repair what was lost. Campaigning involving human suffering always entails acquiescing to the silence of presence, and only then can one build truly merciful and human connections and tackle the climate crisis together with others.

    It took Francis’s death to make me realize that I was being ministered to spiritually and in work, and there is no timeline for when the darkness will be lifted. Now the plaza is less bustling and, at times, flooded. And the floating garbage is like the lingering memories of the moments I wasted neglecting my own faith and conviction for my work. But when I look up, all I see are the forgotten that Francis invited back into the Church, and I realize my own brokenness and darkness too, as I am constantly being invited back to the Church that is equally broken.

    Maybe this is what it means to be a Church now: to acknowledge our brokenness and how we have become used to or even addicted to it. To use this as a starting point to see each other as each other and cultivate the kind of courageous presence that breaks down the powerful. Until everyone, everyone, and everyone is embraced without measure.

    You might want to check out Greenpeace Philippines’ petition called Courage for Climate, a drive in support of real policy and legal solutions in the pursuit of climate justice.

    Courage for Climate

    The climate crisis may seem hopeless, but now is the time for courage, not despair. Join Filipino communities taking bold action for our planet.

    Make an Act of Courage Today!

    Jefferson Chua is a Greenpeace Campaigner working on climate, based in the Philippines.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Planning reforms to slash a year off infrastructure delivery

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Planning reforms to slash a year off infrastructure delivery

    Clean energy projects, reservoirs, railway lines, and other major infrastructure to be built faster, under changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill

    Clean energy projects, public transport links, and other major infrastructure will on average be delivered at least a year faster, as the government accelerates planning reforms to unleash growth and restore Britain’s rightful place as a world leader in building.

    Burdensome statutory consultation requirements unique to major infrastructure projects will be scrapped, through amendments to the pro-growth Planning and Infrastructure Bill, cutting down the average two-year statutory pre-consultation period by half and paving the way for new roads, railways, and windfarms that will bolster the country’s connectivity and energy security.

    Developers currently spend significant time and money on long, technical documents resulting in communities feeling fatigued and confused, which is a direct result of overly complex planning rules that are leaving working people deprived of the things their areas need to thrive. It also disincentivises developers making improvements to projects for fear of having to re-consult, even if in the community’s best interest.

    Recognising community voices remain vital, the government will bring this process in line with planning applications for major housing schemes, and set out new statutory guidance to promote meaningful local engagement without repeating these flaws. This will allow changes to be made dynamically based on community feedback, reducing delays and potentially saving over £1 billion for industry and taxpayers this Parliament. These changes will help ensure Britain is open for business, attracting billions of pounds of new private investment.

    This will go even further in streamlining infrastructure delivery through the government’s landmark Planning and Infrastructure Bill, as part of the Plan for Change to power and heat homes with clean energy, raise living standards, create well-paying jobs, and put more money into the pockets of working people and families. The reforms will also boost the government’s efforts to build 1.5 million homes by making it easier to deliver the roads, reservoirs and energy generation needed so we can restore the dream of homeownership to families across the country.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said: 

    “Critical national infrastructure is key to Britain’s future and security – so we can’t afford to have projects held up by tiresome requirements and uncertainty, caused by a system that is not working for communities or developers and holding back our true potential.

    “We are strengthening the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to make sure we can lead the world again with new roads, railways, and energy infrastructure as part of the Plan for Change, whilst ensuring local people still have a say in our journey to get Britain building.”

    Alongside statutory guidance for developers on applications, the Planning Inspectorate will maintain high standards for accepting projects – informed by community engagement. Local authorities will also be made aware of proposed applications so that they can continue to play an important role informing and advising on developments, as well as advocating for local interests.

    As a result, local people can still object and share their views but in a more effective way, with developers given the flexibility to adapt their schemes as needed without restarting the process: reducing delays and costs for projects, including datacentres, reservoirs, and solar farms, while ensuring local people’s voices are heard.

    Meanwhile the government is already taking action – consenting more nationally significant solar projects since the start of the Parliament compared to the whole of the previous one, including the Mallard Pass Solar Project in Lincolnshire, and making the largest ever investment in offshore wind, as we deliver our Plan for Change milestone of 150 decisions on major infrastructure projects by the end of the Parliament.

    Examples of delays under current system:   

    • Fens Reservoir: Over 1,000 days in pre-application due to a number of issues including around consultation requirements, expected submission in December 2026, supplying 250,000 homes with water.   
    • National Grid – Bramford to Twinstead: 717 days in pre-application for 29km of overhead lines and underground cables.   
    • Hinkley Point C: Three years in pre-application consultation; Sizewell C spent around seven-and-a-half years at this stage.  

    Wider reforms in the Bill will streamline and speed up planning decisions, remove blockers to major infrastructure and housing delivery, and support environmental goals through the new Nature Restoration Fund to achieve win-win outcomes for both nature and the economy.

    These changes build on the recent OBR forecast confirming the government’s planning overhaul, through an updated National Planning Policy Framework, will drive UK housebuilding to its highest level in over 40 years and boost the economy by £6.8 billion by 2029/30.

    Notes to editors:

    Carl Trowell, President of Strategic Infrastructure, National Grid, said:

    “Consulting with communities and stakeholders will always be a fundamental part of the way we at National Grid develop and shape our projects. We welcome the Government’s proposal today which will ensure that consultation and engagement can be more effective and targeted. This will accelerate the path to delivering critical infrastructure while continuing to ensure the views of local communities are heard.”

    Benj Sykes, UK Country Manager, Ørsted said:

    “Ørsted welcomes the ongoing work of the Government to reform the planning system, including these changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. Engaging and working with communities and other stakeholders in the pre-application stage has always been central to our work developing new energy projects and will remain so; the changes being introduced will allow everyone involved in these engagements to focus on the issues that matter to stakeholders and local communities, and to our developments.”

    James Robottom, Head of Policy, Renewable UK said:

    “This announcement represents a significant step forward for the renewable energy industry, as it will enable us to speed up the delivery of vital infrastructure projects to boost the UK’s energy security, grow the economy and help us to reach the Government’s target of clean power by 2030.  The industry has a long track record of engaging early and closely with local communities and a wide range of environmental stakeholders, and this will continue as we want to carry on building projects with local support by giving communities a clear voice in the decision-making process. We look forward to feeding into the new guidance that will enable us to spend more time engaging with key stakeholders on the most important issues for each new project on a case by case basis and lead to even higher quality engagement and positive outcomes for nature.” 

    Sam Richards, CEO of pro-growth campaign group Britain Remade, said:

    “Today’s bold reforms to cut red tape and get vital infrastructure delivered faster are a big step toward unlocking clean energy, better transport, and the homes Britain desperately needs. Too often consultation is a long and expensive box ticking exercise. By slashing delays and encouraging real community engagement, the government is backing growth, investment, and the kind of national renewal we all want to see.”

    Adam Berman, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Energy UK said:

    “Energy UK is fully behind the Government’s mission to speed up the planning system, unlocking the investment in clean energy we need to secure our future power needs. More targeted engagement with statutory consultees will result in faster and more appropriate applications, allowing relevant public bodies to focus on planning applications that matter most to them.”

    Richard Greer, Fellow, Climate & Sustainability Services, Arup:

    “Building on the Planning and Infrastructure Bill with further legislative improvements will be essential to delivering the Government’s ten-year Infrastructure Strategy and its pipeline of projects across transport, energy, water, and the new economy sector (such as data centres).  A step-change in infrastructure delivery requires a comprehensive package of reforms that streamlines the entire project lifecycle.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI, NEGUSE, COHEN, MCCLELLAN LEAD RESOLUTION TO CELEBRATE EARTH DAY

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), co-chair of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), and Reps. Steve Cohen (TN-09), and Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) led a group of 48 lawmakers in introducing a resolution to commemorate Earth Day 2025. The resolution celebrates recent historic environmental actions that have improved the health and wellbeing of our planet, while also reaffirming the work that still needs to be done to secure a livable future for the next generation. 

    “Since the first declaration of Earth Day fifty-five years ago, we have made incredible progress towards protecting and restoring the natural world that we rely on and enjoy,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “However, in less than 100 days, President Trump has worked to erase decades of progress, dismantling climate science, weakening critical environmental agencies, and launching an all-out assault on clean air and clean water. This unprecedented assault on clean air and clean water is a stark reminder that Earth Day remains as important and revolutionary today as it was in 1970. This Earth Day, I am honored to join my colleagues in reaffirming and celebrating our shared responsibility to protect and preserve our planet for future generations, and I will never stop fighting to uphold these ideals at every level of government.”

    “On Earth Day, communities across the country reaffirm their commitment to protecting the environment and our treasured public lands,” said Congressman Neguse. “And for me, as a proud Coloradan, the fight to ensure future generations can enjoy the outdoors the same way we have is deeply personal. Which is why I’m proud to join my colleagues in continuing to charge forward in Congress with efforts that prioritize protecting our planet.” 

    “Fifty-five years after the first Earth Day, our commitment to environmental protection must be stronger than ever,” said Congressman Cohen. “The Trump administration is once again doing the bidding of polluters—rolling back clean air and clean water standards, halting enforcement of environmental safeguards, and illegally freezing congressionally authorized funding meant to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and protect public health. Climate change is accelerating. Our air, water, and communities are under threat. Earth Day is not just a reminder of what’s at stake—it’s a call to rededicate ourselves to the fight for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable planet for the next generation.”

    “Our children deserve a future where clean air, safe water, and a stable climate are not luxuries, but guarantees,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “This Earth Day, we must reaffirm our commitment to climate action and environmental justice. We are not just responding to a crisis today — we are building a better, more just world that our children will inherit tomorrow.”

    Congresswoman Matsui has long been a champion of strong environmental protections, life-saving pollution regulations, and bold climate action. In Congress, she has led efforts to strengthen vehicle and power plant pollution standards and supported energy efficiency programs that save American families money. As Co-Chair of the SEEC Lands, Waters, and Nature Task Force, Congresswoman Matsui also coordinates the coalition’s work to preserve the environment, protect public lands and critical habitat, and advance nature-based approaches to addressing climate change. 

    Read the full resolution HERE.

                                                   

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Stephen Appiah Takyi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

    Urban flooding is a major problem in the global south. In west and central Africa, more than 4 million people were affected by flooding in 2024. In Ghana, cities suffer damage from flooding every year.

    Ghana’s president, John Dramani Mahama, has established a task force to find ways of improving flood resilience in the country. This is partly driven by an increase in flooding incidents in cities such as Accra and Kumasi in the last decade.

    We are urban planning and sustainability scholars. In a recent paper we analysed whether flooding in Accra, Ghana’s capital, was caused by climate change or poor land use planning.

    We conclude from our analysis that flooding is caused by poor and uncoordinated land use planning rather than climate change. We recommend that the physical planning department and other regulatory agencies are equipped to ensure the effective enforcement the relevant land use regulations.

    Mixed push factors

    The Accra metropolitan area is one of the 29 administrative units of Ghana’s Greater Accra region. It is the most populous region in Ghana, with over five million residents, according to the 2021 Housing and Population Census.

    We interviewed 100 households living in areas such as Kaneshie, Adabraka and Kwame Nkrumah Circle. These areas experience a high incidence of floods. Representatives of agencies such as the Physical Planning Department of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, the National Disaster Management Organisation and the Environmental Protection Agency were interviewed too, about:

    • the nature and areas most prone to flooding in the study area

    • the frequency of flooding

    • land use planning and regulations and their influence on flooding.

    About 40% of the people we interviewed attributed flooding to both weak enforcement of land use regulation and changes in rainfall patterns. Most of the households (52%) said floods in Accra were the result of weak enforcement of land use regulations, while 8% blamed changes in land use regulations.

    We also analysed recorded data on flood incidence and rainfall. We found no correlation between increased rainfall and flooding. For example in 2017 there was a decrease in rainfall, but an increase in flooding.

    This finding points to the fact that rainfall isn’t the only factor contributing to flooding in the city.

    The agencies and city residents reported that between 2008 and 2018, they could see that more people were encroaching on the city’s wetlands by building homes and commercial infrastructure. This has changed the natural flow of water bodies. The Greater Accra Metropolitan and its environs has major wetlands such as Densu Delta, Sakumo Lagoon and Songor Lagoon.

    Interview respondents noted that the siting of unauthorised buildings and the encroachment on buffer zones of water bodies in the city could have been averted. They blamed political interference in the enforcement of land use regulation. The government makes the situation worse in two ways, they said:

    • planning standards and regulations are neglected in the development process. The processes involved in acquiring development permits are cumbersome and expensive, so people go ahead and develop without permits.

    • regulatory institutions and authorities are ineffective. This is clear from the fact that planning happens chaotically. No attention is given to the ecological infrastructure that’s needed.

    The way forward

    We conclude that land use malpractices remain the dominant causes of flooding in Accra. They include:

    • poor disposal of solid waste, which eventually blocks drains and results in water overflow during heavy rains

    • building on wetlands as a result of non-compliance or non-enforcement of land use regulations.

    There is an urgent need for Ghana’s cities to adopt best practices in waste management. These include recycling of plastic waste and composting for urban agriculture. An environmental excise tax was introduced in 2011 to fund plastic waste recycling and support waste management agencies.

    The increasing encroachment on wetlands should be addressed through the strict enforcement of buffer regulations. Planning authorities and the judiciary can collaborate on this. The city must also encourage green infrastructure, like rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavement, street trees and rain harvesting systems. Research has shown these to be environmentally sustainable and cost-effective approaches to managing storm water.

    Another suggested approach is the introduction of the polluter pays principle in city management. This is a system where city residents who are involved in the pollution of the environment are made to pay for the cost of mitigating the impact. Residents who dispose of waste indiscriminately and encroach on wetlands would be made to pay for the cost of the environmental degradation. Cities such as Barcelona and Helsinki have applied this principle in the management of their industrial discharge and contaminated waste.

    Finally, there should be incentives for city residents to promote environmental sustainability. For example, a deposit refund system has been introduced in several states in the US and Australia. In this system, consumers are made to pay a deposit after purchasing items that can be recycled, such as plastic bottles, and the deposit is reimbursed to the consumer after the return of the empty bottles to a retail store.

    – Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause
    – https://theconversation.com/flooding-incidents-in-ghanas-capital-are-on-the-rise-researchers-chase-the-cause-254000

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The global economy needs institutions like the IMF | Guest contribution by Joachim Nagel in the Börsen-Zeitung

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    As finance ministers and central bank governors from around the world gather in Washington, DC for the IMF Spring Meetings, international economic relations are more strained than most of us have probably ever experienced.
    At a time when the rules-based global order is under imminent threat, it is up to all of us to defend this global order and the institutions upon which it is built. I see an urgent need for policymakers to clearly articulate the benefits that these institutions and a stable international monetary system deliver for all countries.
    The IMF ranks among the most important international organisations. It helps preserve the stability of the global monetary and financial system by providing its member countries with policy advice or, if necessary, financial assistance to prevent and overcome economic and financial crises. The IMF is a cornerstone of the rules-based international monetary system that is so vital for our prosperity.
    One enduring feature of the IMF is its strong ability to adapt to evolving global economic conditions, in part because it regularly evaluates the design of its frameworks and policies. Indeed, the IMF is planning to review two fundamental areas – the conduct of surveillance and the design of its lending programmes, including conditionality – in the near future.
    Surveillance is the IMF’s key crisis prevention tool. Given the current challenges, it is crucial to keep our understanding of international spillover effects up to date at all times. Significant progress has been made since the global financial crisis, but we still need to improve what we know about how economic developments are transmitted from one country to another. Despite signs of fragmentation, our world is still very much interconnected and the economic linkages have grown in complexity in recent years. Needless to say, changing trade patterns are a factor in this. But enhanced analyses are also needed for the financial sector. That’s a task the IMF is uniquely placed to perform.
    Furthermore, factors like artificial intelligence, digital money and the move towards a more multipolar world will significantly affect our economies. We need to know more about their impact on global monetary and financial stability. Climate-related risks such as floods, droughts and storms can take their toll on banks’ and insurers’ balance sheets. Political uncertainty and geoeconomic fragmentation will also affect the financial sector and real economy. By understanding the systemic implications of these trends, we will be better equipped to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
    Unfortunately, though, crisis prevention is only part of the story. When crises do occur, IMF lending plays a hugely important role. To make sure the funds are used effectively, they are granted subject to conditions as a way of ensuring that a crisis can be overcome.
    Currently, in some programmes, funds are disbursed early, while policy actions only need to be implemented later. I would suggest – where feasible – bringing policy actions forward and pushing back disbursements. This would enhance programme effectiveness and help make more efficient use of the funds. In addition, including contingency measures more often could help programmes respond more flexibly to unforeseen events.
    The global economy needs global institutions like the IMF. It is a cornerstone of the global monetary and financial system, and thus also of our collective well-being. Let me be clear: the Bundesbank and I are committed to the IMF as an important player in promoting economic and financial stability and thus also our prosperity.

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Appiah Takyi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

    Urban flooding is a major problem in the global south. In west and central Africa, more than 4 million people were affected by flooding in 2024. In Ghana, cities suffer damage from flooding every year.

    Ghana’s president, John Dramani Mahama, has established a task force to find ways of improving flood resilience in the country. This is partly driven by an increase in flooding incidents in cities such as Accra and Kumasi in the last decade.

    We are urban planning and sustainability scholars. In a recent paper we analysed whether flooding in Accra, Ghana’s capital, was caused by climate change or poor land use planning.

    We conclude from our analysis that flooding is caused by poor and uncoordinated land use planning rather than climate change. We recommend that the physical planning department and other regulatory agencies are equipped to ensure the effective enforcement the relevant land use regulations.

    Mixed push factors

    The Accra metropolitan area is one of the 29 administrative units of Ghana’s Greater Accra region. It is the most populous region in Ghana, with over five million residents, according to the 2021 Housing and Population Census.

    We interviewed 100 households living in areas such as Kaneshie, Adabraka and Kwame Nkrumah Circle. These areas experience a high incidence of floods. Representatives of agencies such as the Physical Planning Department of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, the National Disaster Management Organisation and the Environmental Protection Agency were interviewed too, about:

    • the nature and areas most prone to flooding in the study area

    • the frequency of flooding

    • land use planning and regulations and their influence on flooding.

    About 40% of the people we interviewed attributed flooding to both weak enforcement of land use regulation and changes in rainfall patterns. Most of the households (52%) said floods in Accra were the result of weak enforcement of land use regulations, while 8% blamed changes in land use regulations.

    We also analysed recorded data on flood incidence and rainfall. We found no correlation between increased rainfall and flooding. For example in 2017 there was a decrease in rainfall, but an increase in flooding.

    This finding points to the fact that rainfall isn’t the only factor contributing to flooding in the city.

    The agencies and city residents reported that between 2008 and 2018, they could see that more people were encroaching on the city’s wetlands by building homes and commercial infrastructure. This has changed the natural flow of water bodies. The Greater Accra Metropolitan and its environs has major wetlands such as Densu Delta, Sakumo Lagoon and Songor Lagoon.

    Interview respondents noted that the siting of unauthorised buildings and the encroachment on buffer zones of water bodies in the city could have been averted. They blamed political interference in the enforcement of land use regulation. The government makes the situation worse in two ways, they said:

    • planning standards and regulations are neglected in the development process. The processes involved in acquiring development permits are cumbersome and expensive, so people go ahead and develop without permits.

    • regulatory institutions and authorities are ineffective. This is clear from the fact that planning happens chaotically. No attention is given to the ecological infrastructure that’s needed.

    The way forward

    We conclude that land use malpractices remain the dominant causes of flooding in Accra. They include:

    • poor disposal of solid waste, which eventually blocks drains and results in water overflow during heavy rains

    • building on wetlands as a result of non-compliance or non-enforcement of land use regulations.

    There is an urgent need for Ghana’s cities to adopt best practices in waste management. These include recycling of plastic waste and composting for urban agriculture. An environmental excise tax was introduced in 2011 to fund plastic waste recycling and support waste management agencies.

    The increasing encroachment on wetlands should be addressed through the strict enforcement of buffer regulations. Planning authorities and the judiciary can collaborate on this. The city must also encourage green infrastructure, like rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavement, street trees and rain harvesting systems.
    Research has shown these to be environmentally sustainable and cost-effective approaches to managing storm water.

    Another suggested approach is the introduction of the polluter pays principle in city management. This is a system where city residents who are involved in the pollution of the environment are made to pay for the cost of mitigating the impact. Residents who dispose of waste indiscriminately and encroach on wetlands would be made to pay for the cost of the environmental degradation. Cities such as Barcelona and Helsinki have applied this principle in the management of their industrial discharge and contaminated waste.

    Finally, there should be incentives for city residents to promote environmental sustainability. For example, a deposit refund system has been introduced in several states in the US and Australia. In this system, consumers are made to pay a deposit after purchasing items that can be recycled, such as plastic bottles, and the deposit is reimbursed to the consumer after the return of the empty bottles to a retail store.

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

    – ref. Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause – https://theconversation.com/flooding-incidents-in-ghanas-capital-are-on-the-rise-researchers-chase-the-cause-254000

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Stephen Appiah Takyi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

    Urban flooding is a major problem in the global south. In west and central Africa, more than 4 million people were affected by flooding in 2024. In Ghana, cities suffer damage from flooding every year.

    Ghana’s president, John Dramani Mahama, has established a task force to find ways of improving flood resilience in the country. This is partly driven by an increase in flooding incidents in cities such as Accra and Kumasi in the last decade.

    We are urban planning and sustainability scholars. In a recent paper we analysed whether flooding in Accra, Ghana’s capital, was caused by climate change or poor land use planning.

    We conclude from our analysis that flooding is caused by poor and uncoordinated land use planning rather than climate change. We recommend that the physical planning department and other regulatory agencies are equipped to ensure the effective enforcement the relevant land use regulations.

    Mixed push factors

    The Accra metropolitan area is one of the 29 administrative units of Ghana’s Greater Accra region. It is the most populous region in Ghana, with over five million residents, according to the 2021 Housing and Population Census.

    We interviewed 100 households living in areas such as Kaneshie, Adabraka and Kwame Nkrumah Circle. These areas experience a high incidence of floods. Representatives of agencies such as the Physical Planning Department of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, the National Disaster Management Organisation and the Environmental Protection Agency were interviewed too, about:

    • the nature and areas most prone to flooding in the study area

    • the frequency of flooding

    • land use planning and regulations and their influence on flooding.

    About 40% of the people we interviewed attributed flooding to both weak enforcement of land use regulation and changes in rainfall patterns. Most of the households (52%) said floods in Accra were the result of weak enforcement of land use regulations, while 8% blamed changes in land use regulations.

    We also analysed recorded data on flood incidence and rainfall. We found no correlation between increased rainfall and flooding. For example in 2017 there was a decrease in rainfall, but an increase in flooding.

    This finding points to the fact that rainfall isn’t the only factor contributing to flooding in the city.

    The agencies and city residents reported that between 2008 and 2018, they could see that more people were encroaching on the city’s wetlands by building homes and commercial infrastructure. This has changed the natural flow of water bodies. The Greater Accra Metropolitan and its environs has major wetlands such as Densu Delta, Sakumo Lagoon and Songor Lagoon.

    Interview respondents noted that the siting of unauthorised buildings and the encroachment on buffer zones of water bodies in the city could have been averted. They blamed political interference in the enforcement of land use regulation. The government makes the situation worse in two ways, they said:

    • planning standards and regulations are neglected in the development process. The processes involved in acquiring development permits are cumbersome and expensive, so people go ahead and develop without permits.

    • regulatory institutions and authorities are ineffective. This is clear from the fact that planning happens chaotically. No attention is given to the ecological infrastructure that’s needed.

    The way forward

    We conclude that land use malpractices remain the dominant causes of flooding in Accra. They include:

    • poor disposal of solid waste, which eventually blocks drains and results in water overflow during heavy rains

    • building on wetlands as a result of non-compliance or non-enforcement of land use regulations.

    There is an urgent need for Ghana’s cities to adopt best practices in waste management. These include recycling of plastic waste and composting for urban agriculture. An environmental excise tax was introduced in 2011 to fund plastic waste recycling and support waste management agencies.

    The increasing encroachment on wetlands should be addressed through the strict enforcement of buffer regulations. Planning authorities and the judiciary can collaborate on this. The city must also encourage green infrastructure, like rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavement, street trees and rain harvesting systems.
    Research has shown these to be environmentally sustainable and cost-effective approaches to managing storm water.

    Another suggested approach is the introduction of the polluter pays principle in city management. This is a system where city residents who are involved in the pollution of the environment are made to pay for the cost of mitigating the impact. Residents who dispose of waste indiscriminately and encroach on wetlands would be made to pay for the cost of the environmental degradation. Cities such as Barcelona and Helsinki have applied this principle in the management of their industrial discharge and contaminated waste.

    Finally, there should be incentives for city residents to promote environmental sustainability. For example, a deposit refund system has been introduced in several states in the US and Australia. In this system, consumers are made to pay a deposit after purchasing items that can be recycled, such as plastic bottles, and the deposit is reimbursed to the consumer after the return of the empty bottles to a retail store.

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

    – ref. Flooding incidents in Ghana’s capital are on the rise. Researchers chase the cause – https://theconversation.com/flooding-incidents-in-ghanas-capital-are-on-the-rise-researchers-chase-the-cause-254000

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Sniping koalas from helicopters: here’s what’s wrong with Victoria’s unprecedented cull

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Liz Hicks, Lecturer in Law, The University of Melbourne

    Roberto La Rosa/Shutterstock

    Snipers in helicopters have shot more than 700 koalas in the Budj Bim National Park in western Victoria in recent weeks. It’s believed to be the first time koalas have been culled in this way.

    The cull became public on Good Friday after local wildlife carers were reportedly tipped off.

    A fire burned about 20% of the park in mid-March. The government said the cull was urgent because koalas had been left starving or burned.

    Wildlife groups have expressed serious concern about how individual koalas had been chosen for culling, because the animals are assessed from a distance. It’s not clear how shooting from a helicopter complies with the state government’s own animal welfare and response plans for wildlife in disasters.

    The Victorian government must explain why it is undertaking aerial culling and why it did so without announcing it publicly. The incident points to ongoing failures in managing these iconic marsupials, which are already threatened in other states.

    Hundreds of koalas were left starving or injured after bushfires in Budj Bim National Park a month ago.
    Vincent_Nguyen/Shutterstock

    Why did this happen?

    Koalas live in eucalypt forests in Australia’s eastern and southern states. The species faces a double threat from habitat destruction and bushfire risk. They are considered endangered in New South Wales, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory.

    In Victoria, koala population levels are currently secure. But they are densely concentrated, often in fragments of bush known as “habitat islands” in the state’s southwest. Budj Bim National Park is one of these islands.

    Over time, this concentration becomes a problem. When the koalas are too abundant, they can strip leaves from their favourite gums, killing the trees. The koalas must then move or risk starvation.

    If fire or drought make these habitat islands impossible to live in, koalas in dense concentrations often have nowhere to go.

    In Budj Bim, Victoria’s Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Parks Victoria have tackled koala overpopulation alongside Traditional Owners by moving koalas to new locations or sterilising them.

    But Budj Bim is also surrounded by commercial blue gum plantations. Koalas spread out through the plantations to graze on the leaves. Their populations grow. But when the plantations are logged, some koalas have to return to the national park, where food may be in short supply.

    Plantations of blue gums are located near Budj Bim. Animal welfare groups claim logging has driven koala overpopulation in the national park.
    Anna Carolina Negri/Shutterstock

    Animal welfare groups say logging is one reason Budj Bim had so many koalas.

    It’s hard to say definitively whether this is the case, because the state environment department hasn’t shared much information. But researchers have found habitat islands lead to overabundance by preventing the natural dispersal of individuals.

    So why was the culling done? Department officials have described the program as “primarily” motivated by animal welfare. After the bushfire last month, koalas have been left starving or injured.

    Why shooters in helicopters? Here, the justification given is that the national park is difficult to access due to rocky terrain and fire damage, ruling out other methods.

    Euthanising wildlife has to be done carefully

    Under Victoria’s plan for animal welfare during disasters, the environment department is responsible for examining and, where necessary, euthanising wildlife during an emergency.

    For human intervention to be justified, euthanasia must be necessary on welfare grounds. Victoria’s response plan for fire-affected wildlife says culling is permitted when an animal’s health is “significantly” compromised, invasive treatment is required, or survival is unlikely.

    For koalas, this could mean loss of digits or hands, burns to more than 15% of the body, pneumonia from smoke inhalation, or blindness or injuries requiring surgery. Euthanised females must also be promptly examined for young in their pouches.

    The problem is that while aerial shooting can be accurate in some cases for larger animals, the method has questionable efficacy for smaller animals – especially in denser habitats.

    It’s likely a number of koalas were seriously injured but not killed. But the shooters employed by the department were not able to thoroughly verify injuries or whether there were joeys in pouches, because they were in the air and reportedly 30 or more metres away from their targets.

    While the department cited concerns about food resources as a reason for the cull, the state’s wildlife fire plan lays out another option: delivery of supplementary feed. Delivering fresh gum leaves could potentially have prevented starvation while the forest regenerates.

    What should the government learn from this?

    The state government should take steps to avoid tragic incidents like this from happening again.

    Preserving remaining habitat across the state is a vital step, as is reconnecting isolated areas with habitat corridors. This would not only reduce the concentration of koalas in small pockets but increase viable refuges and give koalas safe paths to new food sources after a fire.

    Future policies should be developed in consultation with Traditional Owners, who have detailed knowledge of species distributions and landscapes.

    We need better ways to help wildlife in disasters. One step would be bringing wildlife rescue organisations into emergency management more broadly, as emphasised in the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission and the more recent Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.

    This latter report pointed to South Australia’s specialised emergency animal rescue and relief organisation – SAVEM – as an effective model. Under SA’s emergency management plan, the organisation is able to rapidly access burned areas after the fire has passed through.

    Victoria’s dense communities of koalas would be well served by a similar organisation able to work alongside existing skilled firefighting services.

    The goal would be to make it possible for rescuers to get to injured wildlife earlier and avoid any more mass aerial culls.

    Liz Hicks has previously received a Commonwealth Research Training Program stipend. She is a member of the Australian Greens Victoria, although her views do not reflect a party position or party policy.

    Dr Ashleigh Best previously received a Commonwealth Research Training Program scholarship, which supported some of the research in this article. She is an inactive member of the Animal Justice Party, and previously volunteered with Wildlife Victoria.

    – ref. Sniping koalas from helicopters: here’s what’s wrong with Victoria’s unprecedented cull – https://theconversation.com/sniping-koalas-from-helicopters-heres-whats-wrong-with-victorias-unprecedented-cull-254996

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Rather than short-term fixes, communities need flexible plans to prepare for a range of likely climate impacts

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tom Logan, Senior Lecturer Above the Bar of Civil Systems Engineering, University of Canterbury

    Dave Rowland/Getty Images

    As New Zealanders clean up after ex-Cyclone Tam which left thousands without power and communities once again facing flooding, it’s tempting to seek immediate solutions.

    However, after the cleanup and initial recovery, careful planning is essential.

    Research shows that following disasters, communities often demand visible action that appears decisive. Yet, these reactions can create more problems than they solve.

    When high-impact weather events drive long-term policy decisions, we risk implementing changes that seem protective but actually increase the risk of future disasters or misallocate limited resources.

    What New Zealand needs isn’t knee-jerk actions but thoughtful planning that prepares communities before the next storms strike. Risk assessments paired with adaptive planning offer a path forward to build resilience step by step.

    Planning ahead with multiple options

    The good news is that many councils in New Zealand have begun this process and communities across the country are due to receive climate change risk assessments. These aren’t just technical documents showing hazard areas – they are tools that put power in the hands of communities.

    When communities have access to good information about which neighbourhoods, roads and infrastructure face potential risks, they can prioritise investments in protection, modify building practices where needed and, in some cases, plan for different futures. This knowledge creates options rather than fear.

    A risk assessment is merely the first step. Adaptation plans that translate knowledge into action are the next, but the Climate Change Commission recently confirmed there is a gap, concluding that:

    New Zealand is not adapting to climate change fast enough.

    For many New Zealanders already experiencing “rain anxiety” with each approaching storm, simply naming the danger without offering a path forward isn’t enough. This is where adaptive planning becomes essential.

    Adaptive planning isn’t about abandoning coastal towns tomorrow or spending billions on sea walls today. It is about having a plan A, B and C ready if or when nature forces our hand. Rather than demanding immediate, potentially costly actions, adaptive planning provides a roadmap with multiple pathways that adjust as climate conditions evolve. This is how we best manage complex risk.

    Think of it as setting up trip wires: when water reaches certain levels or storms hit certain frequencies, we already know our next move. This approach acknowledges the deep uncertainty of climate change while still providing communities with clarity about what happens next.

    Importantly, it builds in community consultation at each decision point, ensuring solutions reflect local values and priorities.

    Several communities are already considering plans that combine risk assessment with several adaptation options.
    Getty Images

    Success stories

    Several New Zealand communities are already demonstrating how this approach works. Christchurch recently approved an adaptation strategy for Whakaraupō Lyttelton Harbour with clear pathways based on trigger points rather than fixed timelines.

    In South Dunedin, where half of the city’s buildings currently face flood risks which are expected to worsen in coming decades, the city council has paired its risk assessment with seven potential adaptation futures, ranging from status quo to large-scale retreat. Rather than imposing solutions, they’re consulting residents about what they want for their neighbourhoods.

    Similarly forward-thinking, Buller District Council has developed a master plan that includes potentially relocating parts of Westport in the future. It’s a bold strategy that acknowledges reality rather than clinging to false security.

    Status quo feels safer than adaptation

    These approaches aren’t without controversy. At recent public meetings in Buller, some residents voiced understandable concerns about property values and community disruption. These reactions reflect the very real emotional and financial stakes for people whose homes are affected.

    Yet the alternative – continuing with the status quo – means flood victims are offered only the option to invest their insurance money wherever they like. This assumes insurance remains available, which is a misguided assumption as insurance retreat from climate-vulnerable properties accelerates.

    However, while local councils are on the front lines of adaptation planning, they’re being asked to make transformational decisions without adequate central government support. A recent Parliamentary select committee report failed to clarify who should pay for adaptation measures, despite acknowledging significant risks.

    Parliament continues to avoid the difficult questions, kicking the can further down the road while communities such as South Dunedin and Westport face immediate threats.

    Local councils need more than vague guidelines. They need clear direction on funding responsibilities, legislative powers and technical support. Without this support, even the most detailed risk assessments become exercises in documenting vulnerability rather than building resilience.

    Instead of demanding short-term fixes, residents should expect their councils to engage with these complex challenges. The best climate preparation isn’t about predicting exactly what will happen in 2100 or avoiding disaster. It is about building more resilient, cohesive communities that are prepared for whatever our changing climate brings.

    Tom Logan is a Rutherford Discovery Fellow and the chief technical officer of Urban Intelligence. He receives funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and EU Horizons on risk assessment. He is affiliated with the International Society for Risk Analysis.

    – ref. Rather than short-term fixes, communities need flexible plans to prepare for a range of likely climate impacts – https://theconversation.com/rather-than-short-term-fixes-communities-need-flexible-plans-to-prepare-for-a-range-of-likely-climate-impacts-254698

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell & Colleagues Introduce Bill to Permanently Protect the Pacific Ocean from Offshore Drilling

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    04.22.25
    Cantwell & Colleagues Introduce Bill to Permanently Protect the Pacific Ocean from Offshore Drilling
    Cantwell: WA’s maritime economy supports nearly $46 billion in business revenue & more than 174k jobs – all of which could be compromised in an instant by an oil spill
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on Earth Day, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined her colleagues in announcing the reintroduction of the West Coast Protection Act to permanently protect the Pacific Ocean from the dangers of fossil fuel drilling.
    “Washington’s $45.9 billion maritime economy supports over 174,000 jobs from fisheries, trade, tourism, and recreation – but it could all be devastated in an instant by an oil spill,” Sen. Cantwell said. “We must permanently ban offshore drilling on the West Coast to protect our coastal communities, economies, and ecosystems against the risk of an oil spill.”
    This bill prohibits the Department of the Interior from issuing a lease for the exploration, development, or production of oil or natural gas in any area of the Outer Continental Shelf off the coast of California, Oregon, or Washington. This legislation comes just after the 15th anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, which resulted in the deaths of 11 workers, 134 million gallons spilled into the Gulf of Mexico over 87 days, the demise of thousands of marine mammals and sea turtles, and billions of dollars in economic losses from the fishing, outdoor recreation, and tourism industries.
    The West Coast Protection Act was introduced by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and is additionally cosponsored by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). It is endorsed by organizations including Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Oceana, Defenders of Wildlife, Earthjustice, Surfrider Foundation, Seattle Aquarium, Turtle Island Restoration Network, Nassau Hiking & Outdoor Club, Lee (MA) Greener Gateway Committee, South Shore Audubon Society (Freeport, NY), Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, Futureswell, Ocean Conservancy, Environment America, WILDCOAST, Food & Water Watch, Environmental Protection Information Center, Ocean Defense Initiative, Center for Biological Diversity, The Ocean Project, Business Alliance to Protect the Pacific Coast, Animal Welfare Institute, Wild Cumberland, Climate Reality Project – North Broward and Palm Beach County Chapter, U.S. Climate Action Network, American Bird Conservancy, Surf Industry Members Association, Business Alliance for Protecting the Pacific Coast (BAPPC), Clean Ocean Action, and Hispanic Access Foundation.
    Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), ranking member of the House Natural Resources Committee, is leading companion legislation in the House for the West Coast Ocean Protection Act.
    A one-pager on the West Coast Protection Act is available HERE. Full text of the West Coast Protection Act is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 23, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 23, 2025.

    The ‘responsible gambling’ mantra does nothing to prevent harm. It probably makes things worse
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charles Livingstone, Associate Professor, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University Haelen Haagen/Shutterstock Recent royal commissions and inquiries into Crown and Star casino groups attracted much media attention. Most of this was focused on money laundering and other illegalities. The Victorian royal commission found widespread

    This election, Gen Z and Millennials hold most of the voting power. How might they wield it?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Intifar Chowdhury, Lecturer in Government, Flinders University The centre of gravity of Australian politics has shifted. Millennials and Gen Z voters, now comprising 47% of the electorate, have taken over as the dominant voting bloc. But this generational shift isn’t just about numerical dominance. It’s also about

    Only a third of Australians support increasing defence spending: new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard Dunley, Senior Lecturer in History and Maritime Strategy, UNSW Sydney National security issues have been a constant feature of this federal election campaign. Both major parties have spruiked their national security credentials by promising additional defence spending. The Coalition has pledged to spend 3% of Australia’s

    After stunning comeback, centre-left Liberals likely to win majority of seats at Canadian election
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne In Canada, the governing centre-left Liberals had trailed the Conservatives by more than 20 points in January, but now lead by five points and are likely to

    The Greens are hoping for another ‘greenslide’ election. What do the polls say?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Narelle Miragliotta, Associate Professor in Politics, Murdoch University Election talk is inevitably focused on Labor and the Coalition because they are the parties that customarily form government. But a minor party like the Greens is consequential, regardless of whether the election delivers a minority government. Certainly, the

    Victory for US press freedom and workers – court grants injunction in VOA media case
    Asia Pacific Report The US District Court for the District of Columbia has granted a preliminary injunction in Widakuswara v Lake, affirming the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM) was unlawfully shuttered by the Trump administration, Acting Director Victor Morales and Special Adviser Kari Lake. The decision enshrines that USAGM must fulfill its legally required

    Scientists claim to have found evidence of alien life. But ‘biosignatures’ might hide more than they reveal
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Campbell Rider, PhD Candidate in Philosophy – Philosophy of Biology, University of Sydney Artist’s impression of the exoplanet K2-18b A. Smith/N. Madhusudhan (University of Cambridge) Whether or not we’re alone in the universe is one of the biggest questions in science. A recent study, led by astrophysicist Nikku

    What would change your mind about climate change? We asked 5,000 Australians – here’s what they told us
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Kirkland, Research Fellow in Psychology, The University of Queensland LOOKSLIKEPHOTO/Shutterstock Australia just sweltered through one of its hottest summers on record, and heat has pushed well into autumn. Once-in-a-generation floods are now striking with alarming regularity. As disasters escalate, insurers are warning some properties may soon

    Even experts disagree over whether social media is bad for kids. We examined why
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Knight, Associate Professor, Transdisciplinary School, University of Technology Sydney A low relief sculpture depicting Plato and Aristotle arguing adorning the external wall of Florence Cathedral. Krikkiat/Shutterstock Disagreement and uncertainty are common features of everyday life. They’re also common and expected features of scientific research. Despite this,

    Australian women are wary of AI being used in breast cancer screening – new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alison Pearce, Associate Professor, Health Economics, University of Sydney Okrasiuk/Shutterstock Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly relevant in many aspects of society, including health care. For example, it’s already used for robotic surgery and to provide virtual mental health support. In recent years, scientists have developed AI

    These 3 climate misinformation campaigns are operating during the election run-up. Here’s how to spot them
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alfie Chadwick, PhD Candidate, Monash Climate Change Communication Research Hub, Monash University Australia’s climate and energy wars are at the forefront of the federal election campaign as the major parties outline vastly different plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle soaring power prices. Meanwhile, misinformation about

    Port of Darwin’s struggling Chinese leaseholder may welcome an Australian buy-out
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Colin Hawes, Associate professor of law, University of Technology Sydney Slow Walker/Shutterstock Far from causing trade frictions, an Australian buyout of the Port of Darwin lease may provide a lifeline for its struggling Chinese parent company Landbridge Group. Both Labor and the Coalition have proposed such a

    When rock music met ancient archeology: the enduring power of Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Craig Barker, Head, Public Engagement, Chau Chak Wing Museum, University of Sydney Sony Music The 1972 concert film Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii, back in cinemas this week, remains one of the most unique concert documentaries ever recorded by a rock band. The movie captured the band

    Gambling in Australia: how bad is the problem, who gets harmed most and where may we be heading?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alex Russell, Principal Research Fellow, CQUniversity Australia Mick Tsikas/AAP, Joel Carret/AAP, Darren England/AAP, Ihor Koptilin/Shutterstock, The Conversation, CC BY Gambling prevalence studies provide a snapshot of gambling behaviour, problems and harm in our communities. They are typically conducted about every five years. In some Australian states and

    Lest we forget? Aside from Anzac Day, NZ has been slow to remember its military veterans
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato Fiona Goodall/Getty Images Following some very public protests, including Victoria Cross recipient Willie Apiata handing back his medal, the government’s announcement of an expanded official definition of the term “veteran” brings some good news for former military personnel ahead

    Dutton promises Coalition would increase defence spending to 3% of GDP ‘within a decade’
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Opposition Leader Peter Dutton will promise a Coalition government would boost Australia’s spending on defence to 2.5% of GDP within five years and 3% within a decade. Launching the Coalition’s long-awaited defence policy on Wednesday in Western Australia, Dutton will

    Leaders trade barbs and well-worn lines in unspectacular third election debate
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Visitor, School of History, Australian National University Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton have met for the third leaders’ debate of this election campaign, this time on the Nine network. And while the debate traversed much of the same ground as the first two, the quick-fire

    Election Diary: Dutton in third debate gives Labor ammunition for its scare about cuts
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra In the leaders’ third head-to-head encounter, on Nine on Tuesday, Peter Dutton’s bluntness when pressed on cuts has given more ammunition to Labor’s scare campaign about what a Coalition government might do. “When John Howard came into power, there was

    To truly understand Pope Francis’ theology – and impact – you need to look to his life in Buenos Aires
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Fernanda Peñaloza, Senior Lecturer in Latin American Studies, University of Sydney Pope Francis’ journey from the streets of Flores, a neighbourhood in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to the Vatican, is a remarkable tale. Born in 1936, Jorge Bergoglio was raised in a middle-class family of Italian Catholic immigrants.

    Bougainville takes the initiative in mediation over independence
    By Don Wiseman, RNZ Pacific senior journalist In recent weeks, Bougainville has taken the initiative, boldly stating that it expects to be independent by 1 September 2027. It also expects the PNG Parliament to quickly ratify the 2019 referendum, in which an overwhelming majority of Bougainvilleans supported independence. In a third move, it established a

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Markey, Baldwin Announce Resolution to Designate April as Earth Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Resolution Text (PDF)

    Washington (April 22, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), co-author of the Green New Deal resolution and member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) today announced the Earth Month resolution to recognize the importance of environmental stewardship and climate action. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) cosponsors the resolution.

    “Planet Earth is our home. Now more than ever, we need stewardship of our home. As the Trump administration is targeting environmental safeguards that ensure we have a livable future, I am doubling down on my commitment to fight back and uplift efforts that promote environmental stewardship and spur even more climate action. Earth Day is our moment to recommit and expand our movement for a just and livable future – a future with clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, and clean land on which to live,” said Senator Markey. “We know environmental pollution and the climate crisis do not affect us all equally. That is why environmental stewardship and climate action must center the most marginalized communities, particularly Black and Indigenous communities who have been overburdened with pollution and the harms of climate change. Using the tenets of a Green New Deal – fighting for environmental justice and climate action while creating good-paying union jobs – we can work together toward a livable future every day, but especially during Earth Month.”

    “From the Great Lakes and the rolling hills of the Driftless Region, to the Great Northwoods and Mighty Mississippi, Wisconsin is rich with natural resources that have defined our state and way of life. I’m proud to carry on Wisconsin’s tradition of environmental stewardship and recognize Earth Month as we all do our part to protect and preserve Wisconsin’s wilderness and resources for the next generation,” said Senator Baldwin.

    “We proudly support Senators Markey’s & Baldwin’s Earth Month resolution as a vital affirmation of our collective responsibility to protect Mother Earth and the communities most impacted by environmental injustice. At a time when climate change is both accelerating and the solutions to it are being actively undermined, Congressional recognition of Earth Month sends a powerful message: that bold, equitable, and community-led climate action is not only necessary — it is the only thing that will solve the problem for us all,” said KD Chavez, Executive Director of the Climate Justice Alliance.

    “Since it was first observed in 1970, Earth Day has successfully provided countless Americans with an opportunity to reflect on the shared responsibility we have to preserve the beauty of our planet. The designation of Earth Month would help get and keep people engaged for more than just one day, as we rededicate ourselves to doing all we can to explore, enjoy, and protect our environment year round. Together, we can protect our lands, clean air, and clean water to ensure a livable planet for future generations. We’re incredibly thankful for the efforts of Senator Markey, a true champion in the fight to combat climate change and protect America’s wild places,” said Ben Jealous, Executive Director of the Sierra Club.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Padilla, Reed Introduce Bills to Permanently Protect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans from Offshore Drilling

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  On Earth Day, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Jack Reed (D-RI) announced a pair of bills to permanently protect the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean from the dangers of fossil fuel drilling. The package includes Booker and Reed’s Clean Ocean and Safe Tourism (COAST) Anti-Drilling Act, which would permanently prohibit the U.S. Department of the Interior from issuing leases for the exploration, development, or production of oil and gas in the North Atlantic, Mid-Atlantic, South Atlantic, and Straits of Florida Planning Areas of the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf, as well as Padilla’s West Coast Ocean Protection Act, which would permanently prohibit new oil and gas leases for offshore drilling off the coast of California, Oregon, and Washington.
    This legislation comes just after the 15th anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, which resulted in the deaths of 11 workers, 134 million gallons spilled into the Gulf of Mexico over 87 days, the demise of thousands of marine mammals and sea turtles, and billions of dollars in economic losses from the fishing, outdoor recreation, and tourism industries.
    U.S. Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ-06), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, are leading companion legislation in the House for the Clean Ocean and Safe Tourism (COAST) Anti-Drilling Act and West Coast Ocean Protection Act respectively.
    Full text of the COAST Anti-Drilling Act is available here.
    Full text of the West Coast Protection Act is available here, and a one-pager is available here.
    “This week marks both Earth Day and the 15th anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon oil disaster,” said Senator Booker. “I’m standing alongside my colleagues in the House and Senate to reaffirm our commitment to protecting our communities and our environment. Offshore drilling endangers our coastal communities – both their lives and their livelihoods – and threatens marine species and ecosystems. The COAST Act, along with this critical package of legislation, will ensure that marine seascapes along the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts, and the wildlife, industries, and communities that rely on them, are protected from the dangers of fossil fuel drilling.”
    “Offshore drilling in the Atlantic Ocean would open up the eastern seaboard to considerable risk, and we have seen the destruction that an accident can cause. This legislation is about more than simply protecting the environment, it’s also about protecting the tourism and fishing industries that create jobs and help power Rhode Island’s economy,” said Senator Reed.
    “We must end offshore oil drilling in coastal waters once and for all,” said Senator Padilla. “Over 50 years ago, after a catastrophic oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara, Californians rose up and demanded environmental protections, spurring the modern environmental movement and creating the very first Earth Day. As the Trump Administration threatens to recklessly open our coasts to new drilling, California and the West Coast need permanent safeguards to protect our communities from the devastation of fossil fuels and disastrous oil spills. We must act now to fulfill the promises we made to our children and our constituents to meet the urgency of this environmental crisis with bold action.”
    “For decades, I’ve fought to protect our coasts from the dangers of oil and gas development, and this legislative package reaffirms that commitment. Offshore drilling risks devastating spills, accelerates climate change, and threatens the livelihoods of coastal communities like those in New Jersey. On Earth Day and every day, we must stand up to Big Oil and prioritize renewable energy that actually protects our planet,” said Representative Pallone.
    “It’s clear that in the 15 years since the most catastrophic oil spill disaster in history, Republicans in the pocket of Big Oil have learned nothing. Offshore drilling poses significant threats to our public health, coastal economies, and marine life. The science is clear, and so is the public sentiment: we need to speed up our transition to a clean energy future, not lock ourselves into another generation of fossil fuel fealty,” said Representative Huffman. “We cannot let history repeat itself. My Democratic colleagues aren’t standing idly by as the Trump administration tries to reverse all of our progress so they can give handouts to Big Oil. Our legislation will cut pollution and ramp up clean energy, ensuring our coasts remain safe, clean, and open to all Americans— not turned into open season for fossil fuel billionaires looking to drill, spill, and cash in.” 
    These bills reaffirm vital protections for America’s coastal communities and ecosystems. The Biden Administration protected more than 625 million acres of U.S. ocean waters — including the Pacific coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, the entire East Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and parts of the Northern Bering Sea — from offshore oil and gas drilling. President Trump immediately tried to roll back those protections, attempting to illegally reopen those areas to drilling on day one of his second term. Trump’s record speaks for itself: during his first Administration, the Interior Department proposed a sweeping plan to open 47 offshore oil and gas lease areas across nearly every U.S. coastline, from California to New England.
    The two bills would protect critical coastal communities, economies, and ecosystems against offshore drilling, which is especially important in the face of the climate crisis. U.S. coastal counties support 54.6 million jobs, produce $10 trillion in goods and services, and pay $4 trillion in wages. Offshore drilling poses significant threats to public health, coastal economies, and diverse marine life that play an important economical, ecological, and cultural role in our ecosystem. 
    The COAST Anti-Drilling Act is cosponsored by Senator Padilla as well as Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Angus King (I-ME), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). It is endorsed by organizations including Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Oceana, Surfrider Foundation, Earthjustice, Turtle Island Restoration Network, Nassau Hiking & Outdoor Club, Lee (MA) Greener Gateway Committee, South Shore Audubon Society (Freeport, NY), Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, Futureswell, Ocean Conservancy, Environment America, Food & Water Watch, Waterspirit, Business Alliance to Protect the Atlantic, Clean Ocean Action, Jersey Coast Anglers Association (NJ), American Littoral Society, Save Coastal Wildlife, Environmental Protection Information Center, Defenders of Wildlife, Ocean Defense Initiative, Center for Biological Diversity, The Ocean Project, North Carolina Coastal Federation, Animal Welfare Institute, Wild Cumberland, Climate Reality Project – North Broward and Palm Beach County Chapter, U.S. Climate Action Network, National Aquarium, American Bird Conservancy, and Hispanic Access Foundation.
    The West Coast Protection Act is cosponsored by Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) as well as Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). It is endorsed by organizations including Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Oceana, Defenders of Wildlife, Earthjustice, Surfrider Foundation, Seattle Aquarium, Turtle Island Restoration Network, Nassau Hiking & Outdoor Club, Lee (MA) Greener Gateway Committee, South Shore Audubon Society (Freeport, NY), Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, Futureswell, Ocean Conservancy, Environment America, WILDCOAST, Food & Water Watch, Environmental Protection Information Center, Ocean Defense Initiative, Center for Biological Diversity, The Ocean Project, Business Alliance to Protect the Pacific Coast, Animal Welfare Institute, Wild Cumberland, Climate Reality Project – North Broward and Palm Beach County Chapter, U.S. Climate Action Network, American Bird Conservancy, Surf Industry Members Association, Business Alliance for Protecting the Pacific Coast (BAPPC), Clean Ocean Action, and Hispanic Access Foundation.
    “It’s time to end the threat of expanded drilling off America’s coasts forever,” said Joseph Gordon, Oceana Campaign Director. “Oceana applauds these Congressional leaders for reintroducing pivotal legislation that would establish permanent protections from offshore oil and gas drilling for millions of acres of ocean. Earth Day is an important reminder that every coastal community deserves healthy oceans and oil-free beaches. This bill is part of a national movement to safeguard our multi-billion-dollar coastal economies from dirty and dangerous offshore drilling. Congress must swiftly pass these bills into law and reject any expansion of drilling to protect our coasts.”
    “Protecting these waters puts coastal communities and wildlife above polluters and brings us closer to a world where our waters are free from oil spills, endangered whale populations are free from seismic blasting, and local economies can thrive,” said Taryn Kiekow Heimer, Director of Ocean Energy at NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council). “Now more than ever, we need leadership from Congress to protect our oceans from an industry that only cares about its bottom line – and a Trump administration willing to do anything to give those oil billionaires what they want.”
    “The Trump administration’s path of so-called ‘energy dominance’ is paved with threats to American coasts,” said Sierra Weaver, senior attorney for Defenders of Wildlife. “This set of bills offers real protections for coastal communities and wildlife against unwanted, unreasonable and unsafe offshore oil drilling. This is just the type of bold action we need on the 15th anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the worst environmental disaster in U.S. history.”
    “Imperiled species like Southern resident orcas and sea otters need clean, healthy ocean habitats to thrive. New offshore drilling would bring habitat destruction, noise pollution and the threat of spills and chronic contamination to those species and their homes,” said Joseph Vaile, Northwest Program senior representative for Defenders of Wildlife. “This legislation is a critical step toward permanently safeguarding marine mammals and coastal communities from irreversible harm. We thank Senator Padilla for championing the West Coast Ocean Protection Act at a time when the threat of offshore drilling is especially urgent.”
    “California’s spectacular marine life — including complex kelp forests and charismatic sea otters — and vibrant coastal economies rely on healthy ecosystems. This legislation could, once and for all, block offshore drilling activities along the continental shelf, and protect critical marine habitats along California’s iconic Pacific Coast,” said Pamela Flick, Defenders of Wildlife California Program Director.
    “These bills will permanently protect our coastal communities from the threats of offshore drilling. Oil spills like the one caused by the deadly BP drilling disaster 15 years ago are dangerous to people’s health and our public waters. The economic vitality of entire regions depend on oceans staying healthy,” said Earthjustice Senior Legislative Representative Laura M. Esquivel. “We applaud these Members of Congress for doing what’s right on behalf of their constituents.” 
    “These important bills will protect our environment, communities, and economy from the harmful effects of offshore oil and gas development. Offshore drilling is a dirty and damaging practice that threatens our nation’s ocean recreation, tourism, and fisheries industries valued at $250 billion annually. The Surfrider Foundation urges members of Congress to support this important legislation to prohibit new offshore drilling in U.S. waters,” said Pete Stauffer, Ocean Protection Manager, Surfrider Foundation.
    “These bills are critical, especially now. Protecting our environment and frontline communities from the dangers of offshore oil and gas development must be a top priority in the face of the escalating climate and biodiversity crises,” said Elizabeth Purcell, Environmental Policy Coordinator with Turtle Island Restoration Network. “Congress must act swiftly and support these bills to protect our oceans from further exploitation by the oil and gas industry, ensuring a healthy and safe planet for all.”
    “We are the generation that will live with the consequences of today’s energy choices. As young ocean advocates, we want to leave a better legacy for ocean health behind us than what has been left for us,” said Mark Haver, North America Regional Representative with Sustainable Ocean Alliance. “Congress has a moral responsibility to prevent new offshore oil and gas drilling leases. We will be counting on Congress to act on behalf of our ocean and future generations.”
    “Our coasts are a source of life, livelihood, and recreation for coastal communities and the millions of visitors they see every year,” said Athan Manuel, Director of the Sierra Club’s Lands Protection Program. “They also support untold diverse wildlife and ecosystems that are put at risk by exploitation from the oil and gas industry. These bills provide much-needed critical protections for the health of our coastal communities and to ensure that future generations will get to enjoy the wonders of our oceans and beaches.”
    “It has been clear for years that we cannot afford to expand fossil fuel extraction and burning if we want any hope of staving off the ever worsening effects of climate change,” said Mitch Jones, Managing Director of Policy and Litigation at Food & Water Watch. “In addition to the threat of worsening climate chaos, offshore drilling directly endangers local environments, wildlife, and economies due to the threats of oil spills and disruptions to aquatic life. We urge Congress to pass these bills to protect our coastlines and our oceans from Trump’s disastrous push for more drilling.”
    “Water is the pulse of our planet, the sacred thread that connects all life. We all have a responsibility to protect the very essence that sustains us,” said Rachel Dawn Davis, Public Policy & Justice Organizer at Waterspirit. “The threat of exploitation-whether through drilling or pollution-puts ecosystems and future generations at risk. We must continue to honor and defend our waters; in preserving them, we preserve life itself.”
    “Our oceans provide forever benefits in so many ways for both local communities and whole nations. We thoroughly support the bipartisan protections put forward in these Bills, which would position the United States to lead the world and reap huge benefits for tourism, energy security, health and local jobs, not to mention the beautiful wildlife that drives billions of dollars of tourism and other benefits,” said Global Rewilding Alliance.
    “A clean ocean is crucial for the conservation of marine biodiversity,” said Jenna Reynolds, Executive Director of Save Coastal Wildlife. “A polluted ocean poses significant risks to marine wildlife, including increased vessel traffic around oil platforms, which can lead to collisions with marine animals, especially sea turtles and juvenile whales which are difficult to see from moving vessels. Oil spills can directly coat and kill marine animals, including seabirds, sea turtles, marine mammals, and can also damage coastal ecosystems like beaches and coastal wetlands, impacting wildlife and people that rely on these areas. We need to bring back and fully protect biodiversity in our ocean!”
    “We must work toward a future where our coastal communities, economies, and marine life can thrive thanks to a healthy ocean. As the Trump Administration seeks to threaten our favorite beaches and ecosystems with new offshore drilling, it’s more important than ever for ocean champions in Congress to advance ocean protections,” said Sarah Guy, Ocean Defense Initiative. “We are grateful for the leadership of members supporting these bills, and commit to working toward a future where all our coasts are protected from the harms of offshore drilling.”
    “We believe our coasts are far too valuable to risk for short-term fossil fuel gains,” said Katie Thompson, Executive Director of Save Our Shores. “Permanently protecting offshore areas from oil and gas leasing is a critical step toward safeguarding marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and our climate future. These bills reflect the will of the people to prioritize ocean health and long-term sustainability over polluting industries of the past.”
    “This suite of legislation is a critical move to safeguard our marine resources against Trump and his Big Oil agenda,” said Rachel Rilee, oceans policy specialist at the Center for Biological Diversity. “It’s been 15 years since the Deepwater Horizon oil disaster devastated coastlines and killed hundreds of thousands of marine animals. Our oceans and the incredible ecosystems they support are counting on us. Congress must pass these bills and then get right back to work protecting marine life and coastal communities from every manmade danger and every Republican attack.”
    “Americans love our coasts. For some of us, they’re home, and for many others, they’re home to wonderful memories, including family vacations at the beach, fishing trips with friends, and encounters with wildlife like sea turtles, dolphins, and whales. But oil spills can destroy all of that. It’s simply not worth the risk. We must not squander our children’s inheritance,” said Bill Mott, Executive Director of The Ocean Project. “The ocean offers endless inspiration, recreational opportunities, and serves as a critically important economic driver. Yet despite its vastness, it is incredibly vulnerable. As we’ve seen too many times before, offshore oil and gas drilling is not compatible with stewarding our ocean. We all share a responsibility to keep our coasts clean and our ocean healthy for future generations. That’s why we urge Congress to act now to prohibit new offshore oil and gas development forever.”
    “AWI commends these Congressional leaders for taking bold action to protect our oceans and coasts from dirty, dangerous oil and gas development along the outer continental shelf,” said Georgia Hancock, Senior Attorney and Director of the Animal Welfare Institute’s marine wildlife program. “Fifteen years after the Deepwater Horizon disaster, it remains painfully clear: there is no such thing as safe offshore oil drilling, nor is there any way to fully clean up a significant oil spill. Keeping oil rigs out of the ocean prevents unnecessary harm to sensitive marine animals like sea turtles, whales, and seabirds, and avoids the massive costs associated with environmental remediation when things go wrong. These bills draw a clear line in the sand: our marine ecosystems are too precious to risk.”
    “The Pacific west coast economy provides over $80 Billion in GDP via industries like tourism, outdoor recreation, fishing, retail, and real estate, supporting more than 825,000 jobs. And BAPPC’s 8,100 business members rely on a clean ocean to drive their revenues and provide for their customers, employees and families. We strongly support the West Coast Protection Act and other legislation to prohibit new offshore drilling and protect our businesses by prioritizing a healthy coastal ecosystem,” said Grant Bixby, Founding Member, The Business Alliance for Protecting the Pacific Coast.
    “The impact of offshore oil drilling on marine life is well-documented, from toxic discharges of drilling mud and fracking chemicals, to chronic oil spills, to the effects of a major well blow-out as has occurred many times in the history of offshore oil drilling. It is time we stopped burning fossil fuels and switch to non-polluting sources such as wind, solar, and other green energy sources. Industrializing our oceans is the last thing we should be doing,” said the International Marine Mammal Project, Earth Island Institute.
    “The oceans and coasts are the lifeblood of the US economy. They deserve not only protection but increased investment and stewardship. Anyone that threatens the coasts puts the entire US economy at risk,” said the Center for the Blue Economy.
    “We strongly support these bills to protect our vital coastal ecosystems and ocean health, which are increasingly threatened by the climate crisis. Offshore oil and gas leasing not only poses a direct risk of pollution to our waters and endangers marine life, but also contributes to climate change by perpetuating our reliance on fossil fuels. We urge swift passage of these protections to safeguard coastal communities, their economies, and a livable future for all,” said the U.S. Climate Action Network.
    “Offshore oil and gas drilling threatens coastal communities and endangers whales, sea turtles and other wildlife that Americans treasure,” said National Aquarium President and CEO John Racanelli. “On Earth Day and every day, all of us – people and wildlife – rely on a healthy ocean for our very survival. The science is clear that moving from dependence on fossil fuels towards clean energy sources safeguards marine ecosystems and protects public health. Legislation that places sensible limits on new oil and gas development along our shores is just smart public policy.”
    “President Biden’s recent permanent ban on offshore drilling in most ocean realms of the US is strong and cause for celebration! That said, codifying this long-overdue protection with acts of Congress is needed to add bulwark against attempts to override the ban as well as provide proof of bipartisan support for the ocean. The reason is simple: a healthy ocean sustains all life on earth and is essential to a vibrant clean ocean economy,” said Cindy Zipf, Executive Director of Clean Ocean Action.
    “Last year President Biden issued an executive action to protect more than 625 million acres of federal waters from fossil fuel development, a historic and bold decision to defend coastal communities, public health, and ecosystems. Azul’s 2024 nationwide poll found that Latinos across political ideologies support action to ban offshore drilling and are even willing to pay more out of pocket to make it happen. We applaud the leadership of members of Congress seeking to codify protections for coastal waters against offshore drilling, and these added protections are needed to defend against threats to undo existing protections against offshore drilling,” said Marce Gutiérrez-Graudins, Founder of Azul.
    “Protecting our oceans is a matter of safeguarding our health, our economy, and our future. Proposals to reduce existing ocean protections and expand offshore drilling raise serious concerns for coastal communities, marine ecosystems, and millions of livelihoods,” said Maite Arce, President and CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation. “Latino communities, many of whom live along our coasts and rely on clean water and healthy marine environments for recreation, jobs, and cultural connection, are uniquely impacted. We support efforts that uphold strong protections and ensure our public lands and waters remain preserved for future generations. Now is the time for bold, bipartisan leadership that centers communities and protects the ocean legacy we all share.”
    “The New Jersey Environmental Lobby unequivocally supports all of the bills,” said Anne Poole, President of the NJ Environment Lobby. “Our organization’s primary focus is State legislation and policies that affect our densely populated coastal state, but oceans know no national or state boundaries.  The oceans are connected and impact all life on this globe.  What affects one coast eventually affects us all. Thank you to all of these ocean champions for their foresight and political courage!”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: HR Ratings Expands U.S. Operations with Strategic Growth Plan and Senior Leadership Appointment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HR Ratings, leading credit rating agency with nearly two decades of experience and more than 14,000 ratings issued worldwide, announces the expansion of its U.S. operations, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the U.S. market. As part of this effort, HR Ratings welcomes Gregory Root as Business Development Executive Director, adding depth to its leadership team and accelerating its growth in key sectors.

    Gregory Root has nearly 40 years of experience in credit ratings, investment banking, and capital markets. He has held senior leadership roles at Kroll Bond Ratings, DBRS, and Keefe, Bruyette & Woods. As President of Thomson BankWatch, he led the agency’s growth into the world’s largest bank rating firm at the time, overseeing teams across 60 countries.

    “Greg brings a deep understanding of the U.S. market and will play a critical role in supporting HR Ratings´ growth and establishment in this market.” said Veronica Cordero, Head of Business Development of HR Ratings.

    HR Ratings is registered as a Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization (NRSRO) by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for corporates, public finance, and financial institutions, certified by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), and the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). HR Ratings is also approved by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) as credit rating providers (CRP). In addition, the rating agency is certified by the Climate Bonds Initiative (CBI) as approved verifiers for green bonds.

    With a local team based in Coral Gables, Florida, HR Ratings offers a full range of credit evaluation services. The agency has already issued over 2,300 credit ratings historically in the U.S. and evaluated more than 300 U.S.-based entities, serving a market that increasingly seeks agile, transparent, and rigorous credit analysis.

    “This marks an important step forward as we scale our presence in the U.S.,” said Alberto Ramos, Chairman of the Board of HR Ratings. “Our model is built on transparency, accessibility, highest quality service, and analytical rigor—qualities that matter to U.S. issuers and investors looking for real alternatives in a concentrated ratings market.”

    About HR Ratings

    HR Ratings, LLC (HR Ratings), is a Credit Rating Agency registered by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization (NRSRO) for the assets of public finance, corporates and financial institutions as described in section 3 (a) (62) (A) and (B) subsection (i), (iii) and (v) of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

    The following information can be found on our website at www.hrratings.com: (i) The internal procedures for the monitoring and surveillance of our ratings and the periodicity with which they are formally updated, (ii) the criteria used by HR Ratings for the withdrawal or suspension of the maintenance of a rating, (iii) the procedure and process of voting on our Analysis Committee, and (iv) the rating scales and their definitions.

    The ratings and/or opinions of HR Ratings are opinions regarding the credit quality and/or the asset management capacity, or relative to the performance of the tasks aimed at the fulfillment of the corporate purpose, by issuing companies and other entities or sectors, and are based on exclusively in the characteristics of the entity, issue and/or operation, regardless of any business activity between HR Ratings and the entity or issuer. The ratings and/or opinions granted are issued on behalf of HR Ratings and not of its management or technical personnel and do not constitute recommendations to buy, sell or maintain any instrument, or to carry out any type of business, investment or operation, and may be subject to updates at any time, in accordance with the rating methodologies of HR Ratings.

    HR Ratings bases its ratings and/or opinions on information obtained from sources that are believed to be accurate and reliable. HR Ratings, however, does not validate, guarantee or certify the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for results obtained from the use of such information. Most issuers of debt securities rated by HR Ratings have paid a fee for the credit rating based on the amount and type of debt issued. The degree of creditworthiness of an issue or issuer, opinions regarding asset manager quality or ratings related to an entity’s performance of its business purpose are subject to change, which can produce a rating upgrade or downgrade, without implying any responsibility for HR Ratings. The ratings issued by HR Ratings are assigned in an ethical manner, in accordance with healthy market practices and in compliance with applicable regulations found on the www.hrratings.com rating agency webpage. HR Ratings’ Code of Conduct, rating methodologies, rating criteria and current ratings can also be found on the website.

    Ratings and/or opinions assigned by HR Ratings are based on an analysis of the creditworthiness of an entity, issue or issuer, and do not necessarily imply a statistical likelihood of default, HR Ratings defines as the inability or unwillingness to satisfy the contractually stipulated payment terms of an obligation, such that creditors and/or bondholders are forced to take action in order to recover their investment or to restructure the debt due to a situation of stress faced by the debtor. Without disregard to the afore mentioned point, in order to validate our ratings, our methodologies consider stress scenarios as a complement to the analysis derived from a base case scenario. The fees HR Ratings receives from issuers generally range from US$1,000 to $1,000,000 (one million dollars, legal tender in the United States of America) (or the equivalent in another currency) per offering. In some cases, HR Ratings will rate all or some of a particular issuer’s offerings for an annual fee. Annual fees are estimated to vary between $5,000 and US$2,000,000 (five thousand to two million dollars, legal tender in the United States of America) (or the equivalent in another currency).

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What would change your mind about climate change? We asked 5,000 Australians – here’s what they told us

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Kirkland, Research Fellow in Psychology, The University of Queensland

    LOOKSLIKEPHOTO/Shutterstock

    Australia just sweltered through one of its hottest summers on record, and heat has pushed well into autumn. Once-in-a-generation floods are now striking with alarming regularity. As disasters escalate, insurers are warning some properties may soon be uninsurable. Yet, despite these escalating disasters — and a federal election looming — conversation around climate change remains deeply polarising.

    But are people’s minds really made up? Or are they still open to change?

    In research out today, we asked more than 5,000 Australians a simple question: what would change your mind about climate change? Their answers reveal both a warning and an opportunity.

    On climate, Australians fall into six groups

    Almost two thirds (64%) of Australians are concerned about the impact of climate change, according to a recent survey.

    But drill deeper, and we quickly find Australians hold quite different views on climate. In fact, research in 2022 showed Australians can be sorted into six distinct groups based on how concerned and engaged they are with the issue.

    At one end was the Alarmed group – highly concerned people who are convinced of the science, and already taking action (25% of Australians). At the other end was the Dismissive group (7%) – strongly sceptical people who often view climate change as exaggerated or even a hoax. In between were the Concerned, Cautious, Disengaged and Doubtful – groups who varied in belief, awareness and willingness to engage.

    In our nationally representative survey, we asked every participant what might change their opinion about climate change? We then looked at how the answers differed between the six groups.

    For those already convinced climate change is real and human-caused, we wanted to know what might make them doubt it. For sceptical participants, we wanted to know what might persuade them otherwise. In short, we weren’t testing who was “right” or “wrong” – we were mapping how flexible their opinions were.

    Our views aren’t set in stone

    People at both extremes – Alarmed and Dismissive – were the most likely to say “nothing” would change their minds. Nearly half the Dismissive respondents flat-out rejected the premise. But these two groups together make up just one in three Australians.

    What about everyone in the middle ground? The rest – the Concerned (28%), Cautious (23%), Disengaged (3%) and Doubtful (14%) – showed much more openness. They matter most, because they’re the majority — and they’re still listening.

    People with dismissive views of climate science are a small minority.
    jon lyall/Shutterstock

    What information would change minds?

    What would it take for people to be convinced? We identified four major themes: evidence and information, trusted sources, action being undertaken, and nothing.

    The most common response was a desire for better evidence and information. But not just any facts would do. Participants said they wanted clear, plain-English explanations rather than jargon. They wanted statistics they could trust, and science that didn’t feel politicised or agenda-driven. Some said they’d be more convinced if they saw the impacts with their own eyes.

    Crucially, many in the Doubtful and Cautious groups didn’t outright reject climate change – they just didn’t feel confident enough to judge the evidence.

    The trust gap

    Many respondents didn’t know who to believe on climate change. Scientists and independent experts were the most commonly mentioned trusted sources – but trust in these sources wasn’t universal.

    Some Australians, especially in the more sceptical segments, expressed deep distrust toward the media, governments and the scientific community. Others said they’d be more receptive if information came from unbiased or apolitical sources. For some respondents, family, friends and everyday people were seen as more credible than institutions.

    In an age of widespread misinformation, this matters. If we want to build support for climate action, we need the right messengers as much as the right message.

    What about action?

    Many respondents said their views could shift if they saw real, meaningful action – especially from governments and big business. Some wanted proof that Australia is taking climate change seriously. Others said action would offer hope or reduce their anxiety.

    Even some sceptical respondents said coordinated, global action might persuade them – though they were often cynical about Australia’s impact compared to larger emitters. Others called for a more respectful, depoliticised conversation around climate.

    In other words, for many Australians, it’s not just what evidence and information is presented about climate change. It’s also how it’s said, who says it, and why it’s being said.

    Of course, the responses we gathered reflect what people say would change their minds. That’s not necessarily what would actually change their minds.

    What does concrete evidence of climate action look like?
    Piyaset/Shutterstock

    Why does this matter?

    As climate change intensifies, so does misinformation — especially online, where artificial intelligence and social media accelerate its spread.

    Misinformation has a corrosive effect. Spreading doubt, lies and uncertainty can erode public support for climate action.

    If we don’t understand what Australians actually need to hear about climate change – and who they need to hear it from – we risk losing ground to confusion and doubt.

    After years of growth from 2012 to 2019, Australian backing for climate action is fluctuating and even dropping, according to Lowy Institute polling.

    Climate change may not be the headline issue in this federal election campaign. But it’s on the ballot nonetheless, embedded in debates over how to power Australia, jobs and the cost of living. If we want public support for meaningful climate action, we can’t just shout louder. We have to speak smarter.

    Kelly Kirkland receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC).

    Samantha Stanley receives funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC).

    Abby Robinson, Amy S G Lee, and Zoe Leviston do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. What would change your mind about climate change? We asked 5,000 Australians – here’s what they told us – https://theconversation.com/what-would-change-your-mind-about-climate-change-we-asked-5-000-australians-heres-what-they-told-us-254329

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McClellan, Matsui, Neguse, Cohen Lead Resolution to Celebrate Earth Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), member of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) joined Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), and Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)  to lead a group of 48 lawmakers in introducing a resolution to commemorate Earth Day 2025. The resolution celebrates recent historic environmental actions that have improved the health and wellbeing of our planet, while also reaffirming the work that still needs to be done to secure a livable future for the next generation. 

    “Our children deserve a future where clean air, safe water, and a stable climate are not luxuries, but guarantees,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “This Earth Day, we must reaffirm our commitment to climate action and environmental justice. We are not just responding to a crisis today — we are building a better, more just world that our children will inherit tomorrow.”

    “Since the first declaration of Earth Day fifty-five years ago, we have made incredible progress towards protecting and restoring the natural world that we rely on and enjoy,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “However, in less than 100 days, President Trump has worked to erase decades of progress, dismantling climate science, weakening critical environmental agencies, and launching an all-out assault on clean air and clean water. This unprecedented assault on clean air and clean water is a stark reminder that Earth Day remains as important and revolutionary today as it was in 1970. This Earth Day, I am honored to join my colleagues in reaffirming and celebrating our shared responsibility to protect and preserve our planet for future generations, and I will never stop fighting to uphold these ideals at every level of government.”

     “On Earth Day, communities across the country reaffirm their commitment to protecting the environment and our treasured public lands,” said Congressman Neguse. “And for me, as a proud Coloradan, the fight to ensure future generations can enjoy the outdoors the same way we have is deeply personal. Which is why I’m proud to join my colleagues in continuing to charge forward in Congress with efforts that prioritize protecting our planet.” 

    “Fifty-five years after the first Earth Day, our commitment to environmental protection must be stronger than ever,” said Congressman Cohen. “The Trump administration is once again doing the bidding of polluters—rolling back clean air and clean water standards, halting enforcement of environmental safeguards, and illegally freezing congressionally authorized funding meant to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and protect public health. Climate change is accelerating. Our air, water, and communities are under threat. Earth Day is not just a reminder of what’s at stake—it’s a call to rededicate ourselves to the fight for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable planet for the next generation.”

    Congresswoman McClellan has been a leader of clean energy efforts since she was a member of the Virginia Assembly, leading the Virginia Clean Economy Act and the Solar Freedom Act. She championed the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Project, which creates jobs and develops clean energy infrastructure. Since coming to Congress, she has led efforts to invest in clean and renewable energy, support soil carbon sequestration research and monitoring, address the risks to infrastructure integrity resulting from changing climate and environmental conditions and more.

    Read the full resolution HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Pulse Seismic Inc. Reports Strong Q1 2025 Financial Results and Increases Regular Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pulse Seismic Inc. (TSX:PSD) (OTCQX:PLSDF) (“Pulse” or the “Company”) is pleased to report its financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements, accompanying notes and MD&A are being filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and will be available on Pulse’s website at www.pulseseismic.com.

    Today, Pulse’s Board of Directors approved a 17% increase to the regular quarterly dividend, declaring a dividend of $0.0175 per share. This results in an increase to the annual regular dividend from $0.06 per share to $0.07 per share. The total dividend declared will be approximately $889,000 based on Pulse’s 50,794,563 common shares outstanding as of April 22, 2025, to be paid on May 20, 2025, to shareholders of record on May 12, 2025. This dividend is designated as an eligible dividend for Canadian income tax purposes. For non-resident shareholders, Pulse’s dividends are subject to Canadian withholding tax.

    “I am very pleased to report today’s decision by Pulse’s Board of Directors to approve the third annual increase to the Company’s regular dividend since 2023. Having licensed $22.8 million of seismic data for the quarter, our balance sheet has been further strengthened, ending the period with $14.3 million of cash and $14.2 of working capital,” stated Neal Coleman, Pulse’s President and CEO. “As a business with significant fluctuations in annual revenue, having a low-cost structure like ours lends itself to significant increases in EBITDA margins and shareholder free cash flow generation in higher revenue years. Compared to last year, we have already generated 97% of annual revenue,” he continued. “We remain focused on returning capital to shareholders as evidenced by the 17% increase to the regular quarterly dividend, on top of the special dividend of $0.20 per share that was declared in February,” concluded Coleman.

    HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2025

    • A regular dividend of $0.015 per share and a special dividend of $0.20 per share were declared and paid in the first quarter of 2025, totalling $10.9 million.
    • The Company renewed its Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) on February 24, 2025. During the three months ended March 31, 2025, the Company purchased and cancelled 43,300 shares under the NCIB at an average price of $2.43 per share, for total cost of approximately $106,000;
    • Total revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was $22.8 million, compared to $8.8 million for the same period in 2024. Revenue generated in the first quarter of 2025 represents approximately 97% of the total recorded for the full year ended December 31, 2024;
    • Shareholder free cash flow(a) was $15.4 million ($0.30 per share basic and diluted) compared to $5.0 million ($0.10 per share basic and diluted) for the three months ended March 31, 2024; 
    • EBITDA(a) was $20.0 million ($0.39 per share basic and diluted) compared to $6.2 million ($0.12 per share basic and diluted) for the three months ended March 31, 2024; 
    • Net earnings were $13.4 million ($0.26 per share basic and diluted) compared to net earnings of $2.7 million ($0.05 per share basic and diluted) for the three months ended March 31, 2024; and 
    • At March 31, 2025, the Company had a cash balance of $14.3 million as well as $5.0 million of available liquidity on its revolving demand credit facility.
    SELECTED FINANCIAL AND
    OPERATING INFORMATION    		        
             
             
    (Thousands of dollars except per share data,   Three months ended March 31, Year ended,
    numbers of shares and kilometres of seismic data)   2025 2024 December 31,
        (Unaudited) 2024
    Revenue   22,759 8,777 23,379
             
    Amortization of seismic data library   2,225 2,270 9,090
    Net earnings   13,375 2,681 3,391
    Per share basic and diluted   0.26 0.05 0.07
    Cash provided by operating activities   16,615 10,464 14,195
    Per share basic and diluted   0.33 0.20 0.28
    EBITDA (a)   20,048 6,229 15,496
    Per share basic and diluted (a)   0.39 0.12 0.30
    Shareholder free cash flow (a)   15,419 5,038 12,408
    Per share basic and diluted (a)   0.30 0.10 0.24
             
    Capital expenditures        
    Seismic data   – 225 225
    Property and equipment   – – 45
    Total capital expenditures   – 225 270
             
    Dividends        
    Regular dividends declared   763 715 3,018
    Special dividends declared   10,167 – 2,548
    Total dividends declared   10,930 715 5,566
             
    Normal course issuer bid        
    Number of shares purchased and cancelled   43,300 627,300 1,784,000
    Cost of shares purchased and cancelled   106 1,185 3,880
             
    Weighted average shares outstanding        
    Basic and diluted   50,829,404 52,122,006 51,448,985
    Shares outstanding at period-end   50,794,563 51,994,563 50,837,863
             
    Seismic library        
    2D in kilometres   829,207 829,207 829,207
    3D in square kilometres   65,310 65,310 65,310
             
    FINANCIAL POSITION
    AND RATIO    		        
        March 31, March 31, December 31,
    (Thousands of dollars except ratio)   2025 2024 2024
    Working capital   14,201 10,579 9,222
    Working capital ratio   3.7:1 3.8:1 5.1:1
    Cash and cash equivalents   14,305 13,765 8,722
    Total assets   27,412 31,122 21,516
    Trailing 12 -month (TTM) EBITDA(b)   29,315 30,045 15,496
    Shareholders’ equity   20,533 26,543 18,295
             

    (a)The Company’s continuous disclosure documents provide discussion and analysis of “EBITDA”, “EBITDA per share”, “shareholder free cash flow” and “shareholder free cash flow per share”. These financial measures do not have standard definitions prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies. The Company has included these non-GAAP financial measures because management, investors, analysts and others use them as measures of the Company’s financial performance. The Company’s definition of EBITDA is cash available for interest payments, cash taxes, repayment of debt, purchase of its shares, discretionary capital expenditures and the payment of dividends, and is calculated as earnings (loss) from operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. The Company believes EBITDA assists investors in comparing Pulse’s results on a consistent basis without regard to non-cash items, such as depreciation and amortization, which can vary significantly depending on accounting methods or non-operating factors such as historical cost. EBITDA per share is defined as EBITDA divided by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Shareholder free cash flow further refines the calculation of capital available to invest in growing the Company’s 2D and 3D seismic data library, to repay debt, to purchase its common shares and to pay dividends by deducting non-discretionary expenditures from EBITDA. Non-discretionary expenditures are defined as non-cash expenses, debt financing costs (net of deferred financing expenses amortized in the current period), net restructuring costs and current tax provisions. Shareholder free cash flow per share is defined as shareholder free cash flow divided by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period.
    These non-GAAP financial measures are defined, calculated and reconciled to the nearest GAAP financial measures in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis.
    (b) TTM EBITDA is defined as the sum of EBITDA generated over the previous 12 months and is used to provide a comparable annualized measure.
    These non-GAAP financial measures are defined, calculated and reconciled to the nearest GAAP financial measures in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

    OUTLOOK

    Pulse had a very strong first quarter, generating revenue of $22.8 million and ending the quarter with $14.3 million of cash and $14.2 million of working capital. This was one of the top three quarters in the Company’s history, representing 97% of annual 2024 revenue. Pulse’s ability to predict future revenue generation has always been challenging, as significant annual fluctuations are the norm in the seismic data library business. This strong quarterly result has improved our balance sheet and positioned the Company for solid financial performance in 2025.

    Industry trends that we consider relevant include land sales in Western Canada, drilling forecasts for the year, commodity price levels, M and A forecasts and the status of industry infrastructure improvements. Early in 2025, industry projections included high levels of M & A activity for the year and improving commodity prices. It is difficult to predict in the midst of the current market dynamics how this will unfold through the remainder of 2025. Alberta land sales through 2024 and into 2025 were strong, and in British Columbia land sales were resumed in Q3 2024 after a pause of over 3 years. New infrastructure, such as the TMX pipeline expansion, a driver of increased drilling activity, which was completed in 2024 has provided increased export capacity. The Canadian Association of Energy Contractors, in November 2024 forecast an increase to 6,604 wells to be drilled in 2025, an approximate 7% increase over 2024. There has been no update published to this forecast, and drilling activity is reported to be relatively stable. The pending completion of LNG Canada’s liquified natural gas export facility is expected to contribute to the forecast increase in drilling and may lead to an improvement in Canadian natural gas prices.

    Of course, there is a high level of uncertainty on the political and economic fronts. The impacts of the recent change in administration in the United States and the uncertainty around energy tariffs and trade policy, together with Canadian federal government leadership changes and the pending Canadian federal election outcome are contributing to the lack of clarity for the future. It is clear that Canada needs to continue to build pipelines and increase natural gas egress, to support the country’s energy security, as well as to secure new buyers of Canadian energy.

    Pulse, as previously stated, has low visibility regarding future seismic data library sales levels, regardless of industry conditions. The Company remains focused on business practices that have served throughout the full range of conditions. The Company maintains a strong balance sheet and carries no debt. Led by an experienced and capable management team, Pulse operates with a low-cost structure and focuses on maintaining excellent client relations and providing exceptional customer service. Pulse’s strong financial position, high leverage to increased revenue in its EBITDA margin and careful management of its cash resources have resulted in the return of capital to shareholders through regular and special dividends and the repurchase of its shares.

    CORPORATE PROFILE

    Pulse is a market leader in the acquisition, marketing and licensing of 2D and 3D seismic data to the western Canadian energy sector. Pulse owns the largest licensable seismic data library in Canada, currently consisting of approximately 65,310 square kilometres of 3D seismic and 829,207 kilometres of 2D seismic. The library extensively covers the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin, where most of Canada’s oil and natural gas exploration and development occur.

    For further information, please contact:
    Neal Coleman, President and CEO
    Or
    Pamela Wicks, Vice President Finance and CFO
    Tel.: 403-237-5559
    Toll-free: 1-877-460-5559
    E-mail: info@pulseseismic.com.
    Please visit our website at www.pulseseismic.com

    This document contains information that constitutes “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “forecast”, “target”, “project”, “guidance”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “estimate”, “predict” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or language suggesting an outlook.

    The Outlook section herein contain forward-looking information which includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding:

    >        The outlook of the Company for the year ahead, including future operating costs and expected revenues;

    >       Recent events on the political, economic, regulatory, and legal fronts affecting the industry’s medium- to longer-term prospects, including progression and completion of contemplated infrastructure projects;

    >        The Company’s capital resources and sufficiency thereof to finance future operations, meet its obligations associated with financial liabilities and carry out the necessary capital expenditures through 2025;

    >        Pulse’s capital allocation strategy;

    >        Pulse’s dividend policy;

    >        Oil and natural gas prices and forecast trends;

    >        Oil and natural gas drilling activity and land sales activity;

    >        Oil and natural gas company capital budgets;

    >        Future demand for seismic data;

    >        Future seismic data sales;

    >        Pulse’s business and growth strategy; and

    >        Other expectations, beliefs, plans, goals, objectives, assumptions, information and statements about possible future events, conditions, results and performance, as they relate to the Company or to the oil and natural gas industry as a whole.

    By its very nature, forward-looking information involves inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks that predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved. Pulse does not publish specific financial goals or otherwise provide guidance, due to the inherently poor visibility of seismic revenue. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual results to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations and anticipations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking information.

    These factors include, but are not limited to:

    >        Uncertainty of the timing and volume of data sales;

    >        Volatility of oil and natural gas prices;

    >        Risks associated with the oil and natural gas industry in general;

    >        The Company’s ability to access external sources of debt and equity capital;

    >        Credit, liquidity and commodity price risks;

    >        The demand for seismic data;

    >        The pricing of data library licence sales;

    >         Cybersecurity;

    >        Relicensing (change-of-control) fees and partner copy sales;

    >        Environmental, health and safety risks;

    >        Federal and provincial government laws and regulations, including those pertaining to taxation, royalty rates, environmental protection, public health and safety;

    >        Competition;

    >        Dependence on key management, operations and marketing personnel;

    >        The loss of seismic data;

    >        Protection of intellectual property rights;

    >        The introduction of new products; and

    >        Climate change.

    Pulse cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. Additional information on these risks and other factors which could affect the Company’s operations and financial results is included under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent annual information form, and in the Company’s most recent audited annual financial statements, most recent MD&A, management information circular, quarterly reports, material change reports and news releases. Copies of the Company’s public filings are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    When relying on forward-looking information to make decisions with respect to Pulse, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Furthermore, the forward-looking information contained in this document is provided as of the date of this document and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking information, except as required by law. The forward-looking information in this document is provided for the limited purpose of enabling current and potential investors to evaluate an investment in Pulse. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking information may not be appropriate, and should not be used, for other purposes.

    PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/a8c573ed-9098-4949-97bc-2c4553e2eae4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shapiro Administration Celebrates Earth Day with New Growing Greener Grants

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 22, 2025 – Pine Grove, PA

    Shapiro Administration Celebrates Earth Day with New Growing Greener Grants

    The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has announced the opening of the next round of Growing Greener Plus Grant Program applications. Growing Greener is the largest single investment of state funds in Pennsylvania’s history to address critical environmental concerns like flooding. The grant openings are being announced in celebration of Earth Day and a field visit by the Shapiro Administration, the Schuylkill Conservation District, and other local officials to the Swatara Creek Floodplain Restoration site near Pine Grove Borough.

    “Growing Greener is one of the most successful conservation programs in Pennsylvania history, and it is great to see the positive impact that these projects can have for our communities. These grants empower communities to build environmental improvements right where they live – ensuring cleaner water, healthier ecosystems, and more resilient infrastructure,” said DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley. “We’re proud to open the next round of funding on Earth Day to recognize that protecting the environment benefits our communities and the people of Pennsylvania.”

    Growing Greener grants can be awarded to watershed groups, local or county government, municipal authorities, county planning commissions, county conservation districts, educational institutions, or non-profit organizations. To date, Growing Greener Grants have provided almost $420 million in funding to more than 2,800 environmental projects.

    Speakers Include:
    Wayne Lehman, Schuylkill County Conservation District
    Sierra Diebert, Guilford Performance Textiles by Lear Corporation
    Kelly Stine, Guilford Performance Textiles by Lear Corporation
    Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley, Department of Environmental Protection
    Elaine Holley, Pine Grove Borough
    Christine Verdier, Sen. Argall’s office
    Rep. Joanne Stehr, 107th district
    Gary Hess, Schuylkill County Commissioner

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Baker Hughes Company Announces First-Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    First-quarter highlights

    • Orders of $6.5 billion, including $3.2 billion of IET orders.
    • RPO of $33.2 billion, including record IET RPO of $30.4 billion.
    • Revenue of $6.4 billion, consistent year-over-year.
    • Attributable net income of $402 million.
    • GAAP diluted EPS of $0.40 and adjusted diluted EPS* of $0.51.
    • Adjusted EBITDA* of $1,037 million, up 10% year-over-year.
    • Cash flows from operating activities of $709 million and free cash flow* of $454 million.
    • Returns to shareholders of $417 million, including $188 million of share repurchases.

    HOUSTON and LONDON, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes Company (Nasdaq: BKR) (“Baker Hughes” or the “Company”) announced results today for the first quarter of 2025.

    “Baker Hughes started the year strong, building on the positive momentum from 2024 and setting multiple first-quarter records. Our continued transformation initiatives and strong execution continue to drive structural margin improvement across both segments. The operational transformation and streamlining efforts have created a solid foundation to optimize margins and enhance returns, even in a challenging environment,” said Lorenzo Simonelli, Baker Hughes chairman and chief executive officer.

    “In our IET segment, we booked $3.2 billion of orders, including our first data center awards, totaling more than 350 MW of power solutions for this rapidly evolving market. In addition to expanding opportunities for data centers, we have a strong pipeline of LNG, FPSO and gas infrastructure projects that support our order outlook for this year.”

    “In OFSE, EBITDA remained resilient as our margins saw noticeable improvement compared to last year even while segment revenue fell. This is a testament to the team’s hard work in changing the way the business operates.”

    “Although our outlook is tempered by broader macro and trade policy uncertainty, we remain confident in our strategy and the resilience of our portfolio. We believe Baker Hughes is well positioned to navigate near-term challenges and deliver sustainable growth in shareholder value.”

    “I want to thank our employees, whose hard work, dedication and focus have been instrumental to the continued success of Baker Hughes. As we continue to execute our strategy amidst an uncertain macro backdrop, we remain committed to our customers, shareholders and employees,” concluded Simonelli.

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

      Three Months Ended   Variance
    (in millions except per share amounts) March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024    		   Sequential Year-over-
    year
    Orders $ 6,459 $ 7,496 $ 6,542   (14 %) (1 %)
    Revenue   6,427   7,364   6,418   (13 %) — %
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes   402   1,179   455   (66 %) (12 %)
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes*   509   694   429   (27 %) 19 %
    Adjusted EBITDA*   1,037   1,310   943   (21 %) 10 %
    Diluted earnings per share (EPS)   0.40   1.18   0.45   (66 %) (11 %)
    Adjusted diluted EPS*   0.51   0.70   0.43   (27 %) 19 %
    Cash flow from operating activities   709   1,189   784   (40 %) (10 %)
    Free cash flow*   454   894   502   (49 %) (10 %)

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

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

    Quarter Highlights

    Baker Hughes expanded its leadership position in liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) in the first quarter, including a liquefaction train award from Bechtel for a project in North America, where the Company will provide four main refrigerant compressors driven by LM6000+ gas turbines and four expander-compressors. This award builds on the previously announced December 2024 award and further demonstrates the strength of the Company’s collaboration with Bechtel to support North America LNG development.

    During the quarter, Industrial & Energy Technology (“IET”) signed key strategic framework agreements with LNG operators. The Company agreed to provide gas turbines and refrigerant compressor technology, along with maintenance services, for Trains 4 to 8 of NextDecade’s Rio Grande LNG Facility. Baker Hughes also reached an agreement with Argent LNG to provide liquefaction and power solutions and related aftermarket services for its proposed 24 MTPA LNG export facility in Louisiana. The project will employ Baker Hughes’ NMBL™ modularized LNG solution, driven by the LM9000 gas turbine, while also utilizing the Company’s iCenter™ and Cordant™ digital solution, to enhance the plant’s operational efficiency.

    Baker Hughes also demonstrated its continuous commitment to critical gas infrastructure projects with a strategic win in the North America pipeline compression market. The award includes the provision of two gas compression stations for a total of 10 Frame 5/2E gas turbines and 10 centrifugal compressors, anti-surge valves and critical spare parts.

    In the first quarter, Baker Hughes made significant progress in reliable and sustainable power solutions deployment for data centers. In addition to being awarded over 350 MW of NovaLT™ turbines to power data centers with various other customers, the Company partnered with Frontier Infrastructure to accelerate the development of large-scale carbon capture and storage (“CCS”) and power solutions for data centers and industrial customers in the U.S. This partnership will leverage technologies and services across the Baker Hughes enterprise by providing CO₂ compression, NovaLT™ gas turbines, digital monitoring solutions, well construction and completion services.

    In continued demonstration of Gas Technology’s lifecycle offerings in IET, the Company received several aftermarket service awards during the quarter. In Algeria, the Gas Technology Services (“GTS”) team is partnering with SONATRACH to deliver an upgrade solution for the modernization of a key compressor station. In the Middle East, Gas Technology received multiple equipment and services awards to support one of the world’s largest gas processing plants. The scope includes rejuvenation of two existing gas turbines to drive new compressors and the supply of a third compression train to support production expansion.

    IET’s Industrial Solutions gained momentum with its Cordant™ Asset Performance Management (“APM”) solution, securing several contracts with customers across multiple regions. ADNOC Offshore will deploy the full APM suite to enhance production availability and efficiency. In the Americas, a large international oil company will conduct a proof of concept across multiple equipment trains, to support a shift from proactive to predictive maintenance. In Australia, the Company signed agreements to develop asset maintenance strategies for new mine sites supporting truck fleet maintenance.

    Oilfield Services & Equipment (“OFSE”) received a significant award from ExxonMobil Guyana to provide specialty chemicals and related services for its Uaru and Whiptail offshore greenfield developments in the country’s prolific Stabroek Block, highlighting the differentiated capabilities of our Production Solutions offering. For this multi-year contract, the scope will cover topsides, subsea, water injection and utility chemicals to help ExxonMobil Guyana achieve optimal production.

    OFSE continues to leverage the Company’s innovative solutions to help Petrobras unlock Brazil’s vast energy supply. In the quarter and following an open tender, Baker Hughes received a significant, multi-year fully integrated completions systems contract from Petrobras across multiple deepwater fields. A range of Baker Hughes’ technologies, including the new SureCONTROLTM Premium interval control valve, has been specifically tailored to meet the needs of the country’s offshore developments.

    OFSE secured a multi-year contract with Dubai Petroleum Establishment, for and on behalf of Dubai Supply Authority, to provide integrated coiled-tubing drilling services for the Company’s Margham Gas storage project. This follows a third-quarter 2024 IET award for integrated compressor line units for the same project, demonstrating growing commercial synergies across Baker Hughes’ diverse portfolio.

    The Company drove growth in Mature Assets Solutions, signing a multi-year framework agreement with Equinor to help establish a new Center of Excellence for Plug & Abandonment work in the North Sea. Based within OFSE’s operations in Bergen and Stavanger, Norway, this hub will ensure economical, reliable solutions are implemented to responsibly abandon each well, allowing Equinor to maximize value of their assets and allocate more resources to exploration and discovery.

    On the digital front, OFSE received an award from the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (“SOCAR”) to expand deployment of Leucipa™ automated field production solution for all its wells, including those with non-Baker Hughes electric submersible pumps, in the Absheron and Gunseli fields. Leucipa also marked its first deployment in Sub-Saharan Africa through an agreement with the NNPC/FIRST E&P joint venture, which will utilize the platform across its offshore wells in the Niger Delta.

    Consolidated Financial Results

    Revenue for the quarter was $6,427 million, a decrease of 13% sequentially and up $9 million year-over-year. The increase in revenue year-over-year was driven by an increase in IET and partially offset by a decrease in OFSE.

    The Company’s total book-to-bill ratio in the first quarter of 2025 was 1.0; the IET book-to-bill ratio was 1.1.

    Net income as determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), for the first quarter of 2025 was $402 million. Net income decreased $777 million sequentially and decreased $53 million year-over-year.

    Adjusted net income (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the first quarter of 2025 was $509 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $108 million. A list of the adjusting items and associated reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1b in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted net income for the first quarter of 2025 was down 27% sequentially and up 19% year-over-year.

    Depreciation and amortization for the first quarter of 2025 was $285 million.

    Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the first quarter of 2025 was $1,037 million, which excludes adjustments totaling $140 million. See Table 1a in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.” Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was down 21% sequentially and up 10% year-over-year.

    The sequential decrease in adjusted net income and adjusted EBITDA was primarily driven by lower volume in both segments, partially offset by productivity and structural cost-out initiatives. The year-over-year increase in adjusted net income and adjusted EBITDA was driven by increased volume in IET including higher proportionate growth in Gas Technology Equipment (“GTE”) and productivity, structural cost-out initiatives and higher pricing in both segments, partially offset by decreased volume and business mix in OFSE and cost inflation in both segments.

    Other Financial Items

    Remaining Performance Obligations (“RPO”) in the first quarter of 2025 ended at $33.2 billion, a decrease of $0.1 billion from the fourth quarter of 2024. OFSE RPO was $2.8 billion, down 7% sequentially, while IET RPO was $30.4 billion, up $300 million sequentially. Within IET RPO, GTE RPO was $11.9 billion and GTS RPO was $15.1 billion.

    Income tax expense in the first quarter of 2025 was $152 million.

    Other (income) expense, net in the first quarter of 2025 was $140 million, primarily related to changes in fair value for equity securities of $140 million.

    GAAP diluted earnings per share was $0.40. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (a non-GAAP financial measure) was $0.51. Excluded from adjusted diluted earnings per share were all items listed in Table 1b in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Cash flow from operating activities was $709 million for the first quarter of 2025. Free cash flow (a non-GAAP financial measure) for the quarter was $454 million. A reconciliation from GAAP has been provided in Table 1c in the section titled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets, were $255 million for the first quarter of 2025, of which $158 million was for OFSE and $83 million was for IET.

    Results by Reporting Segment

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

    Oilfield Services & Equipment

    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024    		   Sequential Year-over-
    year
    Orders $ 3,281   $ 3,740   $ 3,624     (12 %) (9 %)
    Revenue $ 3,499   $ 3,871   $ 3,783     (10 %) (8 %)
    EBITDA $ 623   $ 755   $ 644     (18 %) (3 %)
    EBITDA margin   17.8 %   19.5 %   17.0 %   -1.7pts 0.8pts
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024    		   Sequential Year-over-
    year
    Well Construction $ 892 $ 943 $ 1,061   (5 %) (16 %)
    Completions, Intervention, and Measurements   925   1,022   1,006   (9 %) (8 %)
    Production Solutions   899   974   945   (8 %) (5 %)
    Subsea & Surface Pressure Systems   782   932   771   (16 %) 1 %
    Total Revenue $ 3,499 $ 3,871 $ 3,783   (10 %) (8 %)
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Geographic Region March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024    		   Sequential Year-over-
    year
    North America $ 922 $ 971 $ 990   (5 %) (7 %)
    Latin America   568   661   637   (14 %) (11 %)
    Europe/CIS/Sub-Saharan Africa   580   740   750   (22 %) (23 %)
    Middle East/Asia   1,429   1,499   1,405   (5 %) 2 %
    Total Revenue $ 3,499 $ 3,871 $ 3,783   (10 %) (8 %)
                 
    North America $ 922 $ 971 $ 990   (5 %) (7 %)
    International $ 2,577 $ 2,900 $ 2,793   (11 %) (8 %)

    EBITDA excludes depreciation and amortization of $226 million, $229 million, and $222 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively. EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    OFSE orders of $3,281 million for the first quarter of 2025 decreased by 12% sequentially. Subsea and Surface Pressure Systems orders were $532 million, down 34% sequentially, and down 16% year-over-year.

    OFSE revenue of $3,499 million for the first quarter of 2025 was down 10% sequentially, and down 8% year-over-year.

    North America revenue was $922 million, down 5% sequentially. International revenue was $2,577 million, down 11% sequentially, with declines across all regions.

    Segment EBITDA for the first quarter of 2025 was $623 million, a decrease of $132 million, or 18% sequentially. The sequential decrease in EBITDA was primarily driven by lower volume, partially mitigated by productivity from structural cost-out initiatives.

    Industrial & Energy Technology

    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Segment results March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024    		   Sequential Year-over-
    year
    Orders $ 3,178   $ 3,756   $ 2,918     (15 %) 9 %
    Revenue $ 2,928   $ 3,492   $ 2,634     (16 %) 11 %
    EBITDA $ 501   $ 639   $ 386     (22 %) 30 %
    EBITDA margin   17.1 %   18.3 %   14.7 %   -1.2pts 2.4pts
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Orders by Product Line March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024    		   Sequential Year-over-
    year
    Gas Technology Equipment $ 1,335 $ 1,865 $ 1,230   (28 %) 9 %
    Gas Technology Services   913   902   692   1 % 32 %
    Total Gas Technology   2,248   2,767   1,922   (19 %) 17 %
    Industrial Products   501   515   546   (3 %) (8 %)
    Industrial Solutions   281   320   257   (12 %) 10 %
    Total Industrial Technology   782   835   803   (6 %) (3 %)
    Climate Technology Solutions   148   154   193   (4 %) (23 %)
    Total Orders $ 3,178 $ 3,756 $ 2,918   (15 %) 9 %
    (in millions) Three Months Ended   Variance
    Revenue by Product Line March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024    		   Sequential Year-over-
    year
    Gas Technology Equipment $ 1,456 $ 1,663 $ 1,210   (12 %) 20 %
    Gas Technology Services   592   796   614   (26 %) (4 %)
    Total Gas Technology   2,047   2,459   1,824   (17 %) 12 %
    Industrial Products   445   548   462   (19 %) (4 %)
    Industrial Solutions   258   282   265   (8 %) (2 %)
    Total Industrial Technology   703   830   727   (15 %) (3 %)
    Climate Technology Solutions   178   204   83   (13 %) 114 %
    Total Revenue $ 2,928 $ 3,492 $ 2,634   (16 %) 11 %

    EBITDA excludes depreciation and amortization of $53 million, $56 million, and $56 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively. EBITDA margin is defined as EBITDA divided by revenue.

    IET orders of $3,178 million for the first quarter of 2025 increased by $260 million, or 9% year-over-year. The increase was driven primarily by Gas Technology, up $326 million or 17% year-over-year.

    IET revenue of $2,928 million for the first quarter of 2025 increased $294 million, or 11% year-over-year. The increase was driven by Gas Technology Equipment, up $246 million or 20% year-over-year, and Climate Technology Solutions, up $95 million or 114% year-over-year.

    Segment EBITDA for the quarter was $501 million, an increase of $114 million, or 30% year-over-year. The year-over-year increase in segment EBITDA was driven by productivity, positive pricing and increased volume including higher proportionate growth in GTE, partially offset by cost inflation.

    Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Financial Measures

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

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

      Three Months Ended
    (in millions) March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP) $ 402 $ 1,179   $ 455  
    Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   7   11     8  
    Provision (benefit) for income taxes   152   (398 )   178  
    Interest expense, net   51   54     41  
    Depreciation & amortization   285   291     283  
    Restructuring   —   258     —  
    Inventory impairment(1)   —   73     —  
    Change in fair value of equity securities(2)   140   (196 )   (52 )
    Other charges and credits(2)   —   38     30  
    Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)   1,037   1,310     943  
    Corporate costs   85   84     88  
    Other income / (expense) not allocated to segments   1   —     —  
    Total Segment EBITDA (non-GAAP) $ 1,124 $ 1,394   $ 1,030  
    OFSE   623   755     644  
    IET   501   639     386  

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

    (2) Change in fair value of equity securities and other charges and credits are reported in “Other (income) expense, net” on the condensed consolidated statements of income (loss).

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

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

      Three Months Ended
    (in millions, except per share amounts) March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes (GAAP) $ 402   $ 1,179   $ 455  
    Restructuring   —     258     —  
    Inventory impairment   —     73     —  
    Change in fair value of equity securities   140     (196 )   (52 )
    Other adjustments   —     30     32  
    Tax adjustments(1)   (32 )   (650 )   (6 )
    Total adjustments, net of income tax   108     (485 )   (26 )
    Less: adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests   —     —     —  
    Adjustments attributable to Baker Hughes   108     (485 )   (26 )
    Adjusted net income attributable to Baker Hughes (non-GAAP) $ 509   $ 694   $ 429  
           
    Denominator:      
    Weighted-average shares of Class A common stock outstanding diluted   999     999     1,004  
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted (non-GAAP) $ 0.51   $ 0.70   $ 0.43  

    (1) All periods reflect the tax associated with the other (income) loss adjustments.

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

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

      Three Months Ended
    (in millions) March 31,
    2025    		 December 31,
    2024    		 March 31,
    2024
    Net cash flows from operating activities (GAAP) $ 709   $ 1,189   $ 784  
    Add: cash used for capital expenditures, net of proceeds from disposal of assets   (255 )   (295 )   (282 )
    Free cash flow (non-GAAP) $ 454   $ 894   $ 502  

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

     
    Financial Tables (GAAP)
     
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
     
    (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months Ended March 31,
    (In millions, except per share amounts)   2025     2024  
    Revenue $ 6,427   $ 6,418  
    Costs and expenses:    
    Cost of revenue   4,952     4,976  
    Selling, general and administrative   577     618  
    Research and development costs   146     164  
    Other (income) expense, net   140     (22 )
    Interest expense, net   51     41  
    Income before income taxes   561     641  
    Provision for income taxes   (152 )   (178 )
    Net income   409     463  
    Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests   7     8  
    Net income attributable to Baker Hughes Company $ 402   $ 455  
         
    Per share amounts:  
    Basic income per Class A common stock $ 0.41   $ 0.46  
    Diluted income per Class A common stock $ 0.40   $ 0.45  
         
    Weighted average shares:    
    Class A basic   992     998  
    Class A diluted   999     1,004  
         
    Cash dividend per Class A common stock $ 0.23   $ 0.21  
         
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
     
    (Unaudited)
     
    (In millions) March 31, 2025 December 31, 2024
    ASSETS
    Current Assets:    
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,277 $ 3,364
    Current receivables, net   6,710   7,122
    Inventories, net   5,161   4,954
    All other current assets   1,693   1,771
    Total current assets   16,841   17,211
    Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation   5,168   5,127
    Goodwill   6,126   6,078
    Other intangible assets, net   3,927   3,951
    Contract and other deferred assets   1,680   1,730
    All other assets   4,368   4,266
    Total assets $ 38,110 $ 38,363
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
    Current Liabilities:    
    Accounts payable $ 4,465 $ 4,542
    Short-term debt   55   53
    Progress collections and deferred income   5,589   5,672
    All other current liabilities   2,485   2,724
    Total current liabilities   12,594   12,991
    Long-term debt   5,969   5,970
    Liabilities for pensions and other postretirement benefits   985   988
    All other liabilities   1,356   1,359
    Equity   17,206   17,055
    Total liabilities and equity $ 38,110 $ 38,363
         
    Outstanding Baker Hughes Company shares:    
    Class A common stock   990   990
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
     
    (Unaudited)
      Three Months Ended March 31,
    (In millions)   2025     2024  
    Cash flows from operating activities:    
    Net income $ 409   $ 463  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities:    
    Depreciation and amortization   285     283  
    Stock-based compensation cost   50     51  
    Change in fair value of equity securities   140     (52 )
    Benefit for deferred income taxes   (53 )   (24 )
    Working capital   218     209  
    Other operating items, net   (340 )   (146 )
    Net cash flows provided by operating activities   709     784  
    Cash flows from investing activities:    
    Expenditures for capital assets   (300 )   (333 )
    Proceeds from disposal of assets   45     51  
    Other investing items, net   (55 )   13  
    Net cash flows used in investing activities   (310 )   (269 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:    
    Dividends paid   (229 )   (210 )
    Repurchase of Class A common stock   (188 )   (158 )
    Other financing items, net   (85 )   (59 )
    Net cash flows used in financing activities   (502 )   (427 )
    Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents   16     (17 )
    Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   (87 )   71  
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   3,364     2,646  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 3,277   $ 2,717  
    Supplemental cash flows disclosures:    
    Income taxes paid, net of refunds $ 207   $ 108  
    Interest paid $ 50   $ 48  

    Supplemental Financial Information

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

    Conference Call and Webcast

    The Company has scheduled an investor conference call to discuss management’s outlook and the results reported in today’s earnings announcement. The call will begin at 9:30 a.m. Eastern time, 8:30 a.m. Central time on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the content of which is not part of this earnings release. The conference call will be broadcast live via a webcast and can be accessed by visiting the Events and Presentations page on the Company’s website at: investors.bakerhughes.com. An archived version of the webcast will be available on the website for one month following the webcast.

    Forward-Looking Statements

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

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

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

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

    About Baker Hughes:

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

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations

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

    Media Relations

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: These 3 climate misinformation campaigns are operating during the election run-up. Here’s how to spot them

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alfie Chadwick, PhD Candidate, Monash Climate Change Communication Research Hub, Monash University

    Australia’s climate and energy wars are at the forefront of the federal election campaign as the major parties outline vastly different plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle soaring power prices.

    Meanwhile, misinformation about climate change has permeated public debate during the campaign, feeding false and misleading claims about renewable energy, gas and global warming.

    This is a dangerous situation. In Australia and globally, rampant misinformation has for decades slowed climate action – creating doubt, hindering decision-making and undermining public support for solutions.

    Here, we explain the history of climate misinformation in Australia and identify three prominent campaigns operating now. We also outline how Australians can protect themselves from misinformation as they head to the polls.

    Misinformation vs disinformation

    Misinformation is defined as false information spread unintentionally. It is distinct from disinformation, which is deliberately created to mislead.

    However, proving intent to mislead can be challenging. So, the term misinformation is often used as a general term to describe misleading content, while the term disinformation is reserved for cases where intent is proven.

    Disinformation is typically part of a coordinated
    campaign     to influence public opinion. Such campaigns can be run by corporate interests, political groups, lobbying organisations or individuals.

    Once released, these false narratives may be picked up by others, who pass them on and create misinformation.

    Climate change misinformation in Australia

    In the 1980s and 1990s, Australia’s emissions-reduction targets were among the most ambitious in the world.

    At the time, about 60 companies were responsible for one-third of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. The government’s plan included measures to ensure these companies remained competitive while reducing their climate impact.

    Despite this, Australia’s resource industry began a concerted media campaign to oppose any binding emissions-reduction actions, claiming it would ruin the economy by making Australian businesses uncompetitive.

    This narrative persisted even when modelling repeatedly showed climate policies would have minimal economic impacts. The industry arguments eventually found their way into government policy.

    Momentum against climate action was also fuelled by a vocal group of climate change-denying individuals and organisations, often backed by multinational fossil fuel companies. These deniers variously claimed climate change wasn’t happening, it was caused by natural cycles, or wasn’t that a serious threat.

    These narratives were further exacerbated by false balance in media coverage, whereby news outlets, in an effort to appear neutral, often placed climate scientists alongside contrarians, giving the impression that the science was still unclear.

    Together, this created an environment in Australia where climate action was seen as either too economically damaging or simply unnecessary.

    What’s happening in the federal election campaign?

    Climate misinformation has been circulating in the following forms during this federal election campaign.

    1. Trumpet of Patriots

    Clive Palmer’s Trumpet of Patriots party ran an advertisement that claimed to expose “ the truth about climate change”. It featured a clip from a 2004 documentary, in which a scientist discusses data suggesting temperatures in Greenland were not rising. The scientist in the clip has since said his comments are now outdated.

    The type of misinformation is cherry-picking – presenting one scientific measurement at odds with the overwhelming scientific consensus.

    Google removed the ad after it was flagged as misleading, but only after it received 1.9 million views.

    2. Responsible Future Illawarra

    The Responsible Future campaign opposes wind turbines on various grounds, including cost, foreign ownership, power prices, effects on views and fishing, and potential ecological damage.

    Scientific evidence indicates offshore wind farms are relatively safe for marine life and cause less harm than boats and fishing gear. Some studies also suggest the infrastructure can create new habitat for marine life.

    However, a general lack of research into offshore wind and marine life has created uncertainty that groups such as Responsible Future Illawarra can exploit.

    It has cited statements by Sea Shepherd Australia to argue offshore wind farms damage marine life – however Sea Shepherd said its comments were misrepresented.

    The group also appears to have deliberately spread disinformation. This includes citing a purported research paper saying offshore wind turbines would kill up to 400 whales per year, when the paper does not exist.

    3. Australians for Natural Gas

    Australians for Natural Gas is a pro-gas group set up by the head of a gas company, which presents itself as a grassroots organisation. Its advertising campaign promotes natural gas as a necessary part of Australia’s fuel mix, and stresses its contribution to jobs and the economy.

    The ad campaign implicitly suggests climate action – in this case, a shift to renewable energy – is harmful to the economy, livelihoods and energy security. According to Meta’s Ad Library, these adds have already been seen more than 1.1 million times.

    Gas is needed in Australia’s current energy mix. But analysis shows it could be phased out almost entirely if renewable energy and storage was sufficiently increased and business and home electrification continues to rise.

    And of course, failing to tackle climate change will cause substantial harm across Australia’s economy.

    How to identify misinformation

    As the federal election approaches, climate misinformation and disinformation is likely to proliferate further. So how do we distinguish fact from fiction?

    One way is through “pre-bunking” – familiarising yourself with common claims made by climate change deniers to fortify yourself against misinformation

    Sources such as Skeptical Science offer in-depth analyses of specific claims.

    The SIFT method is another valuable tool. It comprises four steps:

    • Stop
    • Investigate the source
    • Find better coverage
    • Trace claims, quotes and media to their original sources.

    As the threat of climate change grows, a flow of accurate information is vital to garnering public and political support for vital policy change.

    Alfie Chadwick is a recipient of an Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship.

    Libby Lester receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. These 3 climate misinformation campaigns are operating during the election run-up. Here’s how to spot them – https://theconversation.com/these-3-climate-misinformation-campaigns-are-operating-during-the-election-run-up-heres-how-to-spot-them-253441

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –