NewzIntel.com

Category: Weather

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Warnock Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Extend Tax Deadline for Natural Disaster Victims

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) recently introduced the bipartisan Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, legislation that provides an extension to ensure taxpayers impacted by recent natural disasters have more flexibility when claiming refunds or credits.

    “Helene devastated communities across Western North Carolina, leaving many families struggling to recover,” said Senator Tillis. “North Carolinians affected by this disaster deserve the opportunity to claim the tax refunds they’re entitled to without facing unnecessary red tape. This commonsense legislation ensures disaster victims aren’t penalized for circumstances beyond their control and provides much-needed relief during the recovery process.”

    Background:

    Taxpayers usually have three years to file a claim for credit or refund of any overpayments of tax. However, when a filing deadline is postponed due to a federally declared disaster or similar reason, the three-year “lookback period” for paying refunds is not increased.  As a result, some taxpayers who take advantage of a postponed filing deadline will not be able to obtain a refund.

    Separately, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is required to demand payment within 60 days of an assessment, even if the payment deadline is postponed. As a result, the IRS may send letters demanding payments that have been postponed. This creates unnecessary confusion and stress for disaster victims.

    To ensure that taxpayers impacted by disasters are treated like every other taxpayer when claiming their refunds, the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act would:

    • Extend the three-year period for receiving a refund or credit when the IRS extends a filing deadline due to a natural disaster, ensuring that a deadline extension does not give disaster impacted taxpayers a shorter lookback period for claiming a refund;
    • Ensure that the automatic IRS payment deadline is extended to match any disaster-based filing deadline extension.

    The American Institute of CPAs and the National Association of Realtors support the legislation.

    Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

    Senator Tillis has been pushing for federal assistance for Western North Carolina since the moment Helene made landfall.

    • On October 1, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and the urgent need to pass an appropriations package to support the millions of Americans affected by the storm.  
    • On October 16, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan group of senators in urging the White House to rapidly submit a government funding request to Congress that will fully cover costs associated with clean-up and recovery following Hurricanes Helene and Milton so that affected communities could begin to heal. The Senators called for Congress to return to Washington from the October in-state work period to approve federal disaster relief legislation.
    • On October 23, 2024, The Hill published an op-ed by Senator Tillis addressed to members of Congress to step up and be proactive with long-term disaster recovery assistance.  
    • On October 29, 2024, Senator Tillis and his colleagues announced plans to introduce legislation that would replenish the Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program with families and small businesses across WNC unable to get loans approved until then. The Senators outlined their plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returned to session.
    • On November 14, 2024, Senator Tillis attempted to pass legislation to replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program through a unanimous consent request on the Senate floor, but was blocked by another Senator.
    • On November 15, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to request that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) immediately send a supplemental appropriation request to Congress to support the communities we represent, which were devastated after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The OMB sent the request to Congress a few days later.
    • On November 18, 2024, Senator Tillis introduced the standalone RELIEF Act to provide Hurricane relief to small businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.  
    • On November 20, 2024, Senator Tillis called on Congress to quickly pass Hurricane Helene relief during his testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee. 
    • On November 21, 2024, Senator Tillis met with Governor Cooper, Governor-Elect Stein, members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation and the North Carolina General Assembly, and local leaders from Western North Carolina to discuss efforts to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On December 5, 2024, Senator Tillis joined Fox News’ Your World with Neil Cavuto where he discussed the urgent need for Congress to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On December 10, 2024, Senator Tillis hosted N.C. Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, N.C. House of Representatives Speaker-elect Destin Hall, State Senators Bill Rabon and Ralph Hise, and State Representative Dudley Greene to discuss efforts to provide immediate assistance to North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene’s devastation.  
    • On December 18, 2024, Senator Tillis committed to filibustering any continuing resolution that did not include disaster aid for Western North Carolina.
    • On December 21, 2024, Senator Tillis voted to pass a bipartisan government funding bill that included more than $100 billion in disaster relief for states and communities hit by natural disasters, including North Carolina during Hurricane Helene.
    • On January 7, 2025 Senator Tillis announced $1.65 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds to help rebuild communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On January 24, 2025, Senator Tillis released a statement thanking President Trump for his visit to Western North Carolina to survey the devastation left behind by Helene.
    • On January 31, 2025, Senator Tillis introduced the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025, legislation that excludes from gross income, for income tax purposes, any qualified catastrophe mitigation payment made under a state-based catastrophe loss mitigation program. 
    • On March 11, 2025, Senator Tillis reintroduced the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act, bipartisan legislation to simplify the application process for federal disaster recovery assistance. 
    • On April 1, 2025, Senator Tillis sent a letter urging U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to work with Congress to quickly distribute the more than $23 billion Congress passed in December to assist farmers, ranchers and rural Americans in responding to devastating natural disasters in 2023 and 2024.
    • On April 3, 2025, Senator Tillis (R-NC) introduced the FEMA Independence Act, bipartisan legislation to restore the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as an independent cabinet-level agency and improve efficiency in federal emergency response efforts.  

    In addition to Senator Tillis’ legislative efforts, he has met with local leaders, residents, and elected officials across Western North Carolina including in: Asheville, Black Mountain, Boone, Burnsville, Canton, Clyde, Fairview, Flat Rock, Hendersonville, Hot Springs, Marshall, Morganton, Spruce Pine, Swannanoa, Waynesville and Wilkesboro.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Florida Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Debby

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida of the May 12, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Hurricane Debby occurring Aug. 1-27, 2024. 

    The disaster declaration covers the Florida counties of Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Nassau, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union and Wakulla, as well as the Georgia counties of Brooks, Charlton, Clinch, Echols, Lowndes, Thomas and Ware. 

    Under this declaration SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises. 

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. 

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.” 

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. 

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. 

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is May 12, 2025. 

    ### 

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration 

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Saying Goodbye to Emily Fort, CASC Deputy Senior Administrator

    Source: US Geological Survey

    “That question of ‘Why does this matter?’ has really been the connecting thread through my circuitous career.” 

    Building on a background of physics and public policy, Emily found her way into the federal government fairly early in her career. After five years with a private government consulting firm, Emily joined the National Science Foundation in 2004 as a Program Analyst developing data and budget information systems.  

    “I enjoy working on the challenging, complicated problems the government deals with and trying to help,” she says. “I also find a lot of satisfaction focusing on the good of the American people.” 

    Loving the work but struggling with the “all day long coding on a computer by myself,” she moved to the Office of Management and Budget and eventually to the brand-new Department of the Interior National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center (NCCWSC), which would later become the USGS National CASC.  

    Emily was thrilled to find a federal position in an applied science agency. But she had a big task in front her in the early days of data management with the CASCs.

    “In the beginning, there was no system to track data management plans or to centrally manage and review proposals. Everybody just got everything via email,” she shares. “I was basically like, ‘This is not working for me.’ We needed to create a system that we could all use.” 

    That was easier said than done. A critical piece of the CASC experiment was partnering closely with host and consortium institutions to fund science and support regional needs. But individual organizations have their own processes and systems, and many didn’t have access to internal USGS file sharing. The fledgling program also did not have the budget for or access to commercial tools for organizing information and engaging with the public. 

    Undeterred, Emily and her team set about building the technical foundation of the CASC network. They partnered with offices like the USGS Fort Collins Science Center to integrate into existing data systems and build the network’s first website, and found open-source tools to fill gaps as needed. 

    Emily Fort, along with Shawn Carter and Elda Varela-Minder, received awards in 2024 for their key roles in founding the CASC network and helping it grow over the past 15 years.

    The CASCs’ infrastructure and capacity have grown over time, in large part because of Emily’s willingness to invest in creative solutions and staff development. 

    “It is because of Emily that the CASCs can do what they do,” says Steph McAfee, Regional Administrator of the Southwest CASC. “She has designed and re-designed processes to improve our program and solved problems nimbly and graciously.”   

    Reflecting on her supervisory umbrella, which has grown from just data management to include project tracking, internal and external communications, budget and admin, and IT, Emily is grateful for the trust she has been given over the years by leadership.  

    “The great thing and the reason I think I’ve been here so long is that I’ve been granted the flexibility to really grow my position and add on things that I’m interested in,” she says. “It was really rewarding to be on the ground floor of something and be able to envision where you want to go and then how you’re going to piece it together.  

    “It was a lot of seizing opportunities to learn and not being afraid of not knowing, of not being an ‘expert.’” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Week 4 of “Dirty Dems” campaign highlights dismal record of Assemblymember James Ramos on environmental justice

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    SAN BERNARDINO, CA (April 15, 2025)—As part of the ongoing “Dirty Dems” campaign, Greenpeace USA, in collaboration with the California Working Families Party and Courage California, continues to hold California State legislators accountable for their damaging connections to the oil and gas industry and their failure to support critical climate, economic justice, and progressive priorities.

    This week, the spotlight is on Assemblymember Jamos Ramos of the 45th District – spanning portions of Southern California’s Inland Empire and San Bernardino. Elected in 2018, he has already directly accepted more than $89,600 in oil and gas industry money, including $19,000 in the last session. Chevron alone has directly given Ramos over $31,000.

    Amy Moas, Ph.D., Greenpeace USA Senior Climate Campaigner, said: “Assemblymember Ramos is failing his constituents left and right. Despite being the first Native American elected to the California State Legislator, and the fact that he represents a diverse, working class district with a significant Democratic voter advantage, Ramos has failed to establish himself as a principled voice for all his constituents, especially those most disadvantaged. He has one of the worst records on environmental justice, workers rights, economic justice, and other progressive priorities among the Democratic Caucus in the California State Legislature, and he consistently sides with corporations over his communities.”

    Assembly Member Ramos has received a failing grade every single year in office from California Environmental Voters, and from the California Environmental Justice Alliance (CEJA). In 2023, his score from CEJA was an atrocious 28%. Assembly Member Ramos has never received higher than a C grade from both the California Labor Federation and from the Sierra Club. Courage California has him on their Dishonorable Mention list, as he’s received an F every year he has been in office. Initiate Justice has also given him a failing F grade since their scorecard began in 2023.

    Other lowlights of his time in office include voting no on a bill to lower pollution near homes in his very district to reduce health and safety impacts (AB 2840). He also skipped a vote aimed at reducing pollution in other parts of the state too – a bill aimed at fenceline monitoring of noxious pollutants that have been linked to asthma and cancer (AB 674). Assembly Member Ramos repeatedly voted with big corporations  on a bill aimed at moderately reducing single use plastic packaging (SB 54), and skipped a vote to reduce toxins in packaging (AB 2761). He even voted against common sense reforms aimed at making children safer by requiring firearms be properly and safely stored (SB 53), and skipped voting on a top labor priority to establish a council to determine minimum wages, working hours, and health and safety standards for fast food workers (AB 257).

    Contact: Katie Nelson, Greenpeace USA Senior Communications Specialist, [email protected], +1 (678) 644-1681

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Colleagues Seek to Protect MAHA Commission from Anti-Science Activists

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and a lifelong family farmer, joined Sens. Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), along with Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) and Mark Alford (R-Mo.), in a letter urging the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission to use sound science and risk-based analysis in its policy decisions, particularly on crop protection tools and food-grade ingredients.

    The letter was sent to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin.

    “We write to express our strong appreciation for your leadership and interest in working with each of you to ensure America has the healthiest people in the world. In recent decades, chronic illness rates have risen. This warrants our careful scrutiny to support better health outcomes. It is essential that policies supported by sound science and risk-based analyses are used to accomplish this goal,” the lawmakers wrote.

    “We have concerns that environmentalists are advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health. Despite insinuations to the contrary, regular testing by FDA and USDA finds that more than 99% of all pesticide residues meet extremely conservative limits established by EPA according to the best available science,” they continued.

    In the Senate, additional signers include Sens. Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.).

    In the House, additional signers include Reps. Mike Flood (R-Neb.), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Adrian Smith (R-Neb.), Michael Baumgartner (R-Wash.), Jack Bergman (R-Mich.), Mike Bost (R-Ill.), James Comer (R-Ky.), Troy Downing (R-Mont.), Jake Ellzey (R-Texas), Gabe Evans (R-Colo.), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.), Vince Fong (R-Calif.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), Darin LaHood (R-Ill.), Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.), Frank Lucas (R-Okla.), Tracy Mann (R-Kan.), Mark Messmer (R-Ind.), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), Derek Schmidt (R-Kan.), Austin Scott (R-Ga.), Jefferson Shreve (R-Ind.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), David Valadao (R-Calif.) and Ann Wagner (R-Mo.).

    Text of the letter follows:

    Dear Secretary Kennedy, Secretary Rollins, and Administrator Zeldin:

    We write to express our strong appreciation for your leadership and interest in working with each of you to ensure America has the healthiest people in the world. In recent decades, chronic illness rates have risen. This warrants our careful scrutiny and to support better health outcomes. It is essential that policies supported by sound science and risk-based analyses are used to accomplish this goal.

    We also urge you to safeguard the work of the Make America Healthy Again Commission (Commission) from activist groups promoting misguided and sometimes even malicious policies masquerading as health solutions. The influence of these groups in the Commission would result in shoddy science; a less abundant, less affordable food supply; greater reliance on foreign adversaries for our food; diminished U.S. agricultural production and manufacturing; and, ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

    President Trump recently stated environmental activists were holding the economic prosperity of our country hostage. We now have concerns that they are seeking to influence the work of the Commission to advance their agenda. For decades activist groups have tried to ban safe, well-regulated agricultural inputs by any means necessary. Without these products, yields and quality are negatively impacted by otherwise avoidable insects, fungus, weeds, and other pest pressures. This drives up food prices for American consumers and forces reliance of food imports.

    The same groups have seized upon the Commission’s work as an opportunity to misrepresent the science on common food and feed categories or ingredients, such as plant-based oils. These inputs are subject to a robust, risk-based regulatory system which focuses on protecting human health. Unfounded accusations harm the U.S. farmers who grow our food, upend food and feed supply chains, and significantly increase grocery food prices – all without public health benefit.

    We have concerns that environmentalists are advancing harmful health, economic, or food security policies under the guise of human health. Despite insinuations to the contrary, regular testing by FDA and USDA finds that more than 99% of all pesticide residues meet extremely conservative limits established by EPA according to the best available science.

    We applaud the Commission’s desire to improve the health and well-being of Americans. We implore you to ensure policy decisions are grounded in sound science and risk-based analyses. With unity, we can protect American agricultural producers from environmental activists’ attacks on proven-safe inputs critical to their profitability and long-term viability while promoting positive health outcomes.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Diginex Limited and AIKYA Announce Strategic Alliance to Launch diginexESG in Malaysia, Advancing ESG Reporting and Sustainable Finance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diginex Limited (“Diginex”) (NASDAQ: DGNX), a leading impact technology company specializing in environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) solutions, today announced a strategic alliance with AIKYA, a leading AI & big data technology company with around 2.5 million users, to launch its award-winning ESG reporting platform, diginexESG, in Malaysia that was signed on March 18, 2025 with upfront license fee tranche due to Diginex completed today. This collaboration aims to empower Malaysian businesses to enhance ESG transparency, streamline compliance, and drive sustainable finance initiatives in alignment with Malaysia’s sustainability goals.

    The alliance combines Diginex’s cutting-edge technology, including blockchain and AI-driven data analytics, with AIKYA’s deep expertise in technology deployment. Together, they will deliver diginexESG to Malaysian companies of all sizes, enabling them to meet global ESG standards, such as the Global Reporting Initiative or “GRI”, the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board or “SASB”, and the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosure or “TCFD,” while addressing local frameworks like Bursa Malaysia’s Sustainability Reporting Guidelines. The platform offers intuitive tools for data collection, materiality assessments, and report generation, helping businesses unlock the commercial benefits of sustainability.

    “This strategic relationship with AIKYA marks a significant milestone in expanding our presence in Southeast Asia,” said Mark Blick, CEO of Diginex. “Malaysia is a dynamic market with a strong commitment to sustainable development. By combining diginexESG with AIKYA’s product expertise, we aim to empower businesses to lead in ESG reporting and access sustainable finance opportunities, contributing to Malaysia’s Vision 2030 and net-zero ambitions.”

    AIKYA, known for its expertise in large financial inclusion projects with major government organisations, sees the alliance as a transformative step for Malaysian enterprises. “Our collaboration with Diginex brings world-class ESG technology to Malaysia, enabling companies to navigate complex reporting requirements and attract ESG-focused investments,” said Ramesh CR, Director of AIKYA. “We will support businesses from our Malayia operations in integrating sustainability into their core strategies, fostering resilience and long-term growth.”

    The launch of diginexESG in Malaysia comes at a pivotal time, as sustainable finance grows rapidly, with Malaysia’s green bond and sukuk market gaining traction. The platform’s ESG Ratings Support Service will help companies secure scores from agencies like CDP and Sustainalytics, enhancing their appeal to global investors. This initiative aligns with Malaysia’s leadership in ASEAN’s sustainable finance ecosystem, where green bonds issuance reached USD 4.8 billion in 2023, see ASEAN Sustainable Finance Report.

    About Diginex Limited

    Diginex Limited (Nasdaq: DGNX; ISIN KYG286871044), headquartered in London, is a sustainable RegTech business that empowers businesses and governments to streamline ESG, climate, and supply chain data collection and reporting. The Company utilizes blockchain, AI, machine learning and data analysis technology to lead change and increase transparency in corporate regulatory reporting and sustainable finance. Diginex’s products and services solutions enable companies to collect, evaluate and share sustainability data through easy-to-use software. 

    The award-winning diginexESG platform supports 17 global frameworks, including GRI (the “Global Reporting Initiative”), SASB (the “Sustainability Accounting Standards Board”), and TCFD (the “Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures”). Clients benefit from end-to-end support, ranging from materiality assessments and data management to stakeholder engagement, report generation and an ESG Ratings Support Service.

    For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://www.diginex.com/.

    About AIKYA

    AIKYA Business Solution Private Limited (AIKYA) is a dynamic and innovative company headquartered in Bangalore, India, with operations in Malaysia. Specializing in providing comprehensive business solutions, AIKYA leverages cutting-edge technology and deep industry expertise to empower organizations across various sectors. With a focus on streamlining operations and enhancing productivity, AIKYA offers a wide range of services, including digital transformation, software development, and consulting.

    AIKYA’s mission is to foster growth and efficiency for its clients by delivering tailored solutions that meet their unique requirements. AIKYA is committed to building long-term partnerships with customers, ensuring they achieve their strategic objectives through effective and sustainable business practices. With a team of skilled professionals dedicated to excellence, AIKYA stands out as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of the modern business landscape.

    For more information about their services and approach, you can visit their website at (https://aikya.net).

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results disclosed in the Company’s filings with the SEC.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    Diginex
    Investor Relations
    Email: ir@diginex.com  

    IR Contact – Europe
    Anna Höffken
    Phone: +49.40.609186.0
    Email: diginex@kirchhoff.de

    IR Contact – US
    Jackson Lin
    Lambert by LLYC
    Phone: +1 (646) 717-4593
    Email: jian.lin@llyc.global  

    IR Contact – Asia
    Shelly Cheng
    Strategic Public Relations Group Ltd.
    Phone: +852 2864 4857
    Email: sprg_diginex@sprg.com.hk

    AIKYA Contact
    Ramesh CR
    Email: Ramesh.cr@aikya.net

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Half way through the campaign, how are the major party leaders faring?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Mills, Honorary Senior Lecturer, School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Sydney

    More than two weeks in, we know one thing for sure. This time, the election campaign does matter.

    In decades past, when voters were more loyally rusted on to the major parties, news cycles more sedate, policy platforms fixed and “safe” seats truly safe, it was arguable that election outcomes were largely determined before the campaigns began.

    But in 2025, the campaign period has witnessed a dramatic shift in voting intentions, as measured by public opinion polls.

    Before the campaign, Labor trailed. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese seemed flat-footed, burdened by a poor track record in the 2022 elections and the 2023 Voice referendum.

    But even as Cyclone Alfred blew itself out, parliament returned, and the budget was brought down, Labor’s poll numbers were improving. This trend continued through the first weeks of the campaign, such that Labor now seems the likely winner, either in minority or perhaps majority.

    Why? Election campaigns can reveal how leaders and their teams behave under pressure. They also require trust and lock-step coordination between the leader and the party’s team of campaign professionals.

    Unflashy incrementalism

    Albanese has performed solidly and been relentlessly on-message and on-brand. His campaign has rolled out a well-prepared procession of announcements on Medicare urgent care clinics, pharmaceuticals, childcare and TAFE, each with local funding attached.

    Albanese does not campaign with Hawke-like charisma, Keating-like oratory or Whitlam-like policy. His one truly visionary change commitment – the Voice – collapsed in a heap.

    Instead, as he has shown over the last two weeks, his true identity is as a (Chifley-like?) incrementalist. He boasts a strong grasp of systems – health, roads, renewables – and his campaign is all about fixing, improving and expanding those systems within practical fiscal constraints.

    His vision of the future is the present that just works better for more people.

    Fattening the policy pig

    By contrast, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton seemed ready to shoot the lights out, as an uncompromising conviction politician exploiting voter grievances about cost-of-living issues.

    But he wasted a large part of his first week recovering from an off-strategy indulgence about living in Kirribilli House (“we love the harbour”), and much of the second week explaining his backflip on public service working conditions.

    The first was a campaign blunder, pure and simple. But the second spoke to a deeper malaise within the Coalition about policy development. The Coalition appeared unprepared for the cut and thrust of the campaign.

    Combined with blithe me-tooing of Labor promises on health and roads, and incomplete announcements on cutting foreign student numbers and reserving natural gas for domestic use, the backflip suggested Coalition policy-making has become a bit random: a series of tactical choices, not a strategic plan for government.

    Contrary to long-standing Liberal Party campaign wisdom that “you can’t fatten a pig on market day”, this time the Liberals are trying to force-feed their policy pig en route to the market.

    Dutton has been much more effective pitching his fuel excise promise. The decision to eschew Labor’s budgeted tax cuts for an immediate reduction at the bowser was bold, instinctive and entirely consistent with the Coalition’s outer-metropolitan electoral strategy.

    It took until the second week, but the daily scenes of Dutton pumping petrol into cars – “and utes” as he always adds – is steadily reinforcing his message, however wearying it has become for the travelling press party.

    The comfort of incumbents

    The first leaders’ debate highlighted this difference. Both leaders remained poised and polished (especially creditable by Dutton given he learned of his father’s heart attack immediately beforehand).

    But Albanese simply had more to talk about, more first-term achievements and more commitments on his future shopping list. Dutton articulated grievances without providing many policy solutions.

    The contest on the economy was a draw: Dutton conjures up Albanese’s non-delivered pledge on power prices, while Albanese points to high employment and downward trends on inflation and interest rates.

    All this has played out against the backdrop of the Donald Trump tariff wars. Like previous mid-campaign crises – Tampa in 2001 and, for those with very long memories, the Kennedy assassination in 1963 – global uncertainty reinforces an Australian incumbent. Albanese’s measured response struck the right note.

    Dutton has repeatedly tried to insert himself into the tariff story – difficult for an opposition – but had to take risks to do so. His assertion that AUKUS and ANZUS should be somehow involved was left hanging once Liberal icon John Howard made clear he disagreed.

    With policy speeches delivered, and rival policies on housing finally released, the campaign is in its final week, interrupted by Easter, before early voting starts.

    The challenge for Albanese will be to maintain his momentum, in all his unflashy, incrementalist style. Labor is likely to ramp up its Dutton-Trump comparison. Dutton will need to put further flesh on the bones of putting Australia “back on track”.

    Stephen Mills was a staff member (1986-91) for Labor Prime Minister Bob Hawke and since 2015 has volunteered for local Labor election campaigns.

    – ref. Half way through the campaign, how are the major party leaders faring? – https://theconversation.com/half-way-through-the-campaign-how-are-the-major-party-leaders-faring-254387

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Tax Day, Senators Reverend Warnock, Tillis Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Extend Tax Deadline for Natural Disaster Victims

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    On Tax Day, Senators Reverend Warnock, Tillis Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Extend Tax Deadline for Natural Disaster Victims

    The Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act would help disaster victims receive their tax refund by extending the deadline to claim a credit or refund if they’ve previously overpaid their taxes
    This is the Senator’s latest effort to continue helping the Georgia communities that were impacted by Hurricane Helene
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “Georgians impacted by natural disasters should not be racing the clock to get the money they’re owed from the federal government […] I’m continuing to advocate for Georgians impacted by Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters”
    Senator Tillis: “North Carolinians affected by this disaster deserve the opportunity to claim the tax refunds they’re entitled to without facing unnecessary red tape.”
    Washington, D.C. – On Tax Day, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced the bipartisan Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, legislation that provides an extension to ensure taxpayers impacted by recent natural disasters have more flexibility when claiming refunds or credits.
    “Georgians impacted by natural disasters should not be racing the clock to get the money they’re owed from the federal government,” said Senator Warnock. “That is why I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act with Senator Tillis. I’m continuing to advocate for Georgians impacted by Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters.”
    “Helene devastated communities across Western North Carolina, leaving many families struggling to recover,” said Senator Tillis. “North Carolinians affected by this disaster deserve the opportunity to claim the tax refunds they’re entitled to without facing unnecessary red tape. This commonsense legislation ensures disaster victims aren’t penalized for circumstances beyond their control and provides much-needed relief during the recovery process.”
    Taxpayers usually have three years to file a claim for credit or refund of any overpayments of tax.  However, when a filing deadline is postponed due to a federally declared disaster or similar reason, the three-year “lookback period” for paying refunds is not increased.  As a result, some taxpayers who take advantage of a postponed filing deadline will not be able to obtain a refund.
    Separately, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is required to demand payment within 60 days of an assessment, even if the payment deadline is postponed.  As a result, the IRS may send letters demanding payments that have been postponed. This creates unnecessary confusion and stress for disaster victims.
    To ensure that taxpayers impacted by disasters are treated like every other taxpayer when claiming their refunds, the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act would:
    Extend the three-year period for receiving a refund or credit when the IRS extends a filing deadline due to a natural disaster, ensuring that a deadline extension does not give disaster impacted taxpayers a shorter lookback period for claiming a refund;
    Ensure that the automatic IRS payment deadline is extended to match any disaster-based filing deadline extension
    Since Hurricane Helene made landfall last year, Senator Warnock has been deeply involved in the recovery process. He led the bipartisan call in the Senate for Congress to return to Washington from the October recess and urgently pass additional disaster relief. To date, Senator Warnock has helped secure over $238 million in individual and household assistance to Georgians from FEMA, and he has hosted three outreach clinics in rural communities to help connect roughly 200 Georgians with federal assistance following Hurricane Helene.
    The American Institute of CPAs and the National Association of Realtors support the legislation.
    Full text of the bill is availableHERE.
    One page of the bill is availableHERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Extreme Weather & Extreme Cuts: Senator Markey Releases Report on Trump’s Attacks on Disaster Preparedness and Resilience Efforts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Report Text (PDF)

    Boston (April 15, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee and co-Chair of the Senate Climate Change Task Force, today released a report titled “Extreme Weather & Extreme Cuts: The Trump Administration’s Attack on Our Ability to Predict, Prepare for, and Recover from Extreme Weather Events.” The report highlights the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather around the country, and lays out Trump administration actions that defund, undermine, and eliminate our ability to keep our families and communities safe during and after extreme weather events.

    In the report, Senator Markey writes, “Whether it’s coastal flooding in the East, wildfires in the West, or droughts in the heartland, extreme weather events are on the rise and are devastating communities across the nation. Yet, instead of taking steps to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of Americans living in the path of destruction fueled by climate change, the Trump administration is cutting and gutting our ability to predict, prepare for, and recover from these disasters.”

    Senator Markey continues, “With climate change fueling more frequent and more intense extreme weather events, we should be investing in preparedness, response, and resilience measures. Instead, the climate-denying Trump administration is dismantling them. We must resist this attack, which threatens a livable future for all.”

    Since January, Senator Markey has spoken out fiercely against President Trump and Elon Musk’s illegal funding freezes and staff cuts at NOAA and FEMA. On February 11th, Senator Markey joined a press conference outside of NOAA Headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, to condemn DOGE’s infiltration of the building and forced access to NOAA IT systems.

    Last week, Senator Markey introduced the Forecasting Optimization for Robust Earth Climate Analysis and Subseasonal-to-Seasonal Tracking (FORECAST) Act of 2025, which would authorize federal funding to support research, demonstration, and application of cutting-edge data management and weather modeling technologies to improve the reliability of long-term forecasts. On March 7th, Senator Markey joined colleagues in demanding answers from FEMA on personnel firings and grant freezes that limit the agency’s ability to respond to disasters.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In the Starlight: Tina Preyan Fuels the Future at Johnson

    Source: NASA

    Exploring the unknown and preparing for humanity’s next giant leap really works up an appetite. Thankfully, employees at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston can count on Tina Preyan to help them fuel up and stay focused.
    Preyan is a food service specialist at Starport, a quality-of-life program that contributes to Johnson’s mission by providing employee services and activities that enhance work life and promote mental well-being and physical fitness. Part of the agency’s network of 12 NASA Exchanges — each located at a NASA center or facility — Starport offers everything from group fitness classes to retail shopping, with programs designed to engage, energize, and support the workforce.

    Preyan oversees the on-site dining options at Johnson, from its cafés and food trucks to vending machines and mini markets. She helps set the budget for food services, creates monthly calendars of food offerings, schedules vendors and pop-up events, and ensures annual food safety inspections are conducted. She also works with teams across Johnson to order food and related supplies for NASA events.
    “The best part of my job is working in customer service, meeting new NASA workers every day, and making everyone feel welcome and at home when coming to Johnson’s cafés,” she said.
    Preyan has been a fixture at Johnson for the last 19 years. She previously worked at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans but transferred to Houston shortly after Hurricane Katrina hit the city in 2005. At Starport, she worked her way up from prep cook to lead cashier and then to lead assistant. She also served as the office’s administrative assistant before transitioning to her current role.

    Preyan has enjoyed meeting many NASA astronauts and Johnson team members and learning more about the work they do. The occasional celebrity sighting is another job perk.
    Preyan is something of a celebrity herself. “So many employees know my name. I am proud of meeting so many people, and the love they give me every day just being here,” she said.
    She was also proud to receive Starport’s Jackie Kingery Award in fall 2024. The award recognizes extraordinary customer service and exemplary dedication to the NASA Exchange mission at Johnson. “It felt amazing to receive this award and know that I am doing a great job in everyone’s eyes,” she said. “I value high integrity and am always willing to help others in the organization.”

    Another source of pride for Preyan? Her son, Cameron, who is set to graduate from the University of Texas at San Antonio in May with a degree in Finance and Marketing.
    In addition to her son’s graduation, Preyan looks forward to continuing her work in a positive environment and pursuing more growth opportunities.
    “I’m going to stay busy and stay focused on ensuring proper procedures are being used by vendors,” she said. “And making sure all customers are happy and will continue to return to cafés.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom, Legislature double down on state’s critical cap-and-trade program in face of federal threats

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 15, 2025

    What you need to know: With one of the state’s leading climate programs – cap-and-trade – set to expire in 2030, Governor Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced they would seek an extension of the program.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced today they will seek an extension of California’s nation-leading climate pollution reduction program – known as cap-and-trade – during this legislative year. 

    The program is currently set to expire in 2030, and requires extension by the Legislature. As the Governor noted in his proposed budget, extending the program this year can provide the market with greater certainty, attract stable investment, further California’s climate leadership and set the state on a clear path to achieve its 2045 carbon-neutrality goal.

    Today’s announcement comes as the Trump Administration threatens deep cuts to federal environmental programs and attempts to derail state climate efforts with a “glorified press release masquerading as an executive order.”

    California must continue to lead on reducing pollution and ensuring our climate dollars benefit all residents. That’s why we’re doubling down on cap-and-trade: one of our most effective tools to cut emissions and create good-paying jobs.

    In just the last decade, cap-and-trade has invested billions of dollars in projects by holding polluters accountable – helping clean our air, protect public health and propel new careers.

    Cap-and-trade is a huge success and, working together, we’ll demonstrate real climate leadership that will attract investment and innovation to deliver the technologies of tomorrow, right here in California.

    Governor Gavin Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas

    The cap-and-trade program is the state’s leading climate program – proposed by Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and adopted under a law he signed in 2006 – that holds carbon polluters accountable by charging them for emitting more carbon pollution than allowed. The funds raised are then put to use across the state on projects and programs that help clean the air, protect public health, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, conserve nature, and more. The funds are also delivered directly back to Californians in the form of the California Climate Credit, a credit applied to utility bills twice a year. 

    As of last year, the program had funded $28 billion in investments across the state in the last decade and cut carbon emissions equivalent to taking 80% of the state’s cars off the road. Since 2000, the state has cut carbon emissions by 20% while California’s GDP has increased by 78%. 

    Details of the Governor’s proposal for the cap-and-trade extension will be shared in the coming weeks. 

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom extended an executive order from January barring predatory investors from making unsolicited undervalued property offers to families in areas impacted by the Los Angeles area firestorms. LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom…

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: California is launching a new campaign to further strengthen tourism between California and Canada — reminding its international partners that the Golden State remains a welcoming, inclusive, and unparalleled travel destination. SACRAMENTO…

    Apr 14, 2025

    News What you need to know: California will receive 32 new rangers and lifeguards serving across 13 state parks – protecting and informing more visitors ahead of the high travel season. PARADISE — While the federal government cuts staffing for national parks, Governor…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 2025 Southwest Monsoon likely to be above normal, says IMD’S Long Range Forecast for the Southwest Monsoon Seasonal Rainfall

    Source: Government of India

    2025 Southwest Monsoon likely to be above normal, says IMD’S Long Range Forecast for the Southwest Monsoon Seasonal Rainfall

    Seasonal rainfall expected at 105% of LPA with a margin of ±5%

    Enso conditions neutral, but la Niña-like atmospheric patterns observed neutral ENSO likely to persist throughout the monsoon season

    Indian ocean dipole remains neutral ahead of monsoon 2025 climate models predict continued neutral IOD conditions through the season

     Below-normal snow cover in Eurasia for last three months may boost Indian monsoon

    Posted On: 15 APR 2025 5:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Highlights

     a) The southwest monsoon seasonal (June to September) rainfall over the country as a whole during 2025 is most likely to be above normal (>104% of the Long Period Average (LPA)). Quantitatively, the seasonal rainfall over the country as a whole is likely to be 105% of LPA with a model error of ± 5%. The LPA of the season rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1971-2020 is 87 cm.

     b) Currently, Neutral El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions are prevailing over the equatorial Pacific region. However, the atmospheric Circulation features are similar to La Nina conditions. The latest Monsoon Mission Climate Forecast System (MMCFS) as well as other climate model forecasts indicate that the Neutral ENSO condition are likely to continue during the monsoon season.

    c)At present, neutral Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) conditions are present over the Indian Ocean and the latest Climate models forecast indicates that the Neutral IOD conditions are likely to continue during the southwest monsoon season.

    d)The snow cover areas of northern hemisphere and Eurasia during the last three months (January to March, 2025) were below normal. The winter and spring snow cover extent over Northern Hemisphere as well as Eurasia has in general an inverse relationship with the subsequent Indian summer monsoon rainfall. IMD will issue the updated forecasts for monsoon season rainfall in the last week of May 2025.

    1. Background

    Since 2003, India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been issuing the operational long-range forecast (LRF) for the southwest monsoon seasonal (June-September) rainfall averaged over the country as a whole in two stages. The first stage forecast is issued in April and the second stage or updated forecast is issued by the end of May. In 2021, IMD has implemented a new strategy for issuing monthly and seasonal operational forecasts for the southwest monsoon rainfall over the country by modifying the existing two stage forecasting strategy. The new strategy uses both dynamical and statistical forecasting system. Multi-Model Ensemble (MME) forecasting system based on coupled global climate models (CGCMs) from different global climate prediction centres, including IMD’s Monsoon Mission Climate Forecast System (MMCFS) are used.

    As per the new LRF strategy, the first stage forecast issued in middle of April consists of the quantitative and probabilistic forecasts for the country as a whole, and the spatial distribution of probabilistic forecasts for the tercile categories (above normal, normal, and below normal) of the seasonal (June-September) rainfall over the country.

    The second stage forecast issued around end of May consist of update for the seasonal rainfall forecast issued in April along with the probabilistic forecasts for the seasonal rainfall over the four homogenous regions of India (northwest India, central India, south Peninsula and northeast India) and monsoon core zone (MCZ). In addition, quantitative and probabilistic forecasts for the country as a whole, and the spatial distribution of probabilistic forecasts for the tercile categories (above normal, normal, and below normal) of the June rainfall over the country are also issued during the second state forecast.

    In continuation to the above forecasts, monthly rainfall forecast is issued around end of June, July and August respectively for the subsequent one month. In addition, quantitative and probabilistic forecasts for the country as a whole, and the spatial distribution of probabilistic forecasts for the tercile categories for the second half of the season rainfall is issued around end of July along with the forecast for August.

    2. Forecast for the 2025 Southwest Monsoon Season (June–September) rainfall over the country as a whole during 2025.

    The forecast based on both dynamical and statistical models suggests that quantitatively, the monsoon seasonal rainfall is likely to be 105% of the Long Period 3 3

    Average (LPA) with a model error of ± 5%. The LPA of the season rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1971-2020 is 87 cm.

    The five category probability forecasts for the Seasonal (June to September) rainfall over the country as a whole are given below, which suggests that there is strong probability (59%) of southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall likely to be in the above normal category or higher (>104% of LPA).

    Category

    Rainfall Range

    (% of LPA)

    Forecast Probability (%)

    Climatological

    Probability (%)

    Deficient

    < 90

    2

    16

    Below Normal

    90 – 95

    9

    17

    Normal

    96 -104

    30

    33

    Above Normal

    105-110

    33

    16

    Excess

    > 110

    26

    17

    The MME forecast for the southwest monsoon season rainfall during 2025 was prepared based on the April initial conditions of a group of coupled climate models which have higher prediction skill over the Indian monsoon region.

    The spatial distribution of probabilistic forecasts for tercile categories (above normal, normal and below normal) for the seasonal (June to September) rainfall during 2025 is shown in Fig.1. The spatial distribution suggests above-normal seasonal rainfall is very likely over most parts of the country except some areas over Northwest India, Northeast India and South Peninsular India, where below-normal rainfall is likely. The white-shaded areas within the land area represent no signal from the model with equal probabilities for all the tercile categories of rainfall.

    3. Sea Surface Temperature (SST) Conditions in the equatorial Pacific & Indian Oceans

    Currently, neutral ENSO conditions are prevailing over the equatorial Pacific region. However, the atmospheric Circulation features are similar to La Nina conditions. The latest MMCFS as well as other climate models forecast indicates that neutral ENSO conditions are likely to continue during the monsoon season.

    At present, neutral IOD conditions are present over the Indian Ocean and the latest climate model forecast indicates that the neutral IOD conditions are likely to continue during the southwest monsoon season.

    As sea surface temperature (SST) conditions over the Pacific and the Indian Oceans are known to have a strong influence on the Indian monsoon, IMD is carefully monitoring the evolution of sea surface conditions over these Ocean basins.

    4. Snow Cover over the Northern Hemisphere

    The winter and spring snow cover extent over Northern Hemisphere as well as Eurasia has in general an inverse relationship with the subsequent Indian summer monsoon rainfall. The areas of northern hemisphere snow cover and Eurasian snow cover during January to March, 2025 were observed to be below normal.

    Fig.1.Probability forecast of tercile categories* (below normal, normal, and above normal) for the seasonal rainfall over India during southwest monsoon season (June -September), 2025. The figure illustrates the most likely categories as well as their probabilities. The white shaded areas represent no signal from the model with equal probabilities for all the tercile categories.

    (*Tercile categories have equal climatological probabilities, of 33.33% each).

    *****

    NKR/PSM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Signs Legislation Delivering More than $1 Billion in Tax Cuts and Relief to Hardworking Georgians

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp, joined by First Lady Marty Kemp, members of the Georgia General Assembly, and state and local leaders signed legislation today at a ceremony in Cobb County delivering more than $1 billion in significant tax relief to hardworking Georgians through an acceleration of the largest tax cut in state history and a third, one-time tax refund. 

    “Here in Georgia, we safeguard every dollar of taxpayer money, because we know it belongs to the people, not the government,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “While other states are running up budget deficits and raising taxes on their citizens, we’re investing in the priorities of our state while further cutting taxes and returning more than a billion dollars to hardworking Georgians! That’s on top of the tax relief we’ve given in prior years and is a direct result of our conservative budgeting. “As families fight through the impacts of high prices over the last several years, I want to thank our partners in the legislature for helping to make this possible and for supporting their fellow Georgians in this way.”

    Governor Kemp signed the following two bills today. HB 111 – sponsored by Representative Soo Hong, co-sponsored by Representatives Matthew Gambill, Lauren McDonald III, Will Wade, Bruce Williamson, and Shaw Blackmon, and carried in the Senate by Senator Bo Hatchett – accelerates the largest state income tax cut in Georgia history initiated by the signing of HB 1437 in 2022. HB 112 – sponsored by Representative Lauren McDonald III, co-sponsored by Representatives Soo Hong, Matthew Gambill, Will Wade, Alan Powell, and Shaw Blackmon, and carried in the Senate by Senator Drew Echols – authorizes the delivery of $1 billion in one-time special tax refunds of up to $500 per Georgia tax-payer household.

    With the governor’s signature, HB 111 doubles down on the efforts of prior years to reduce the tax burden on Georgians and job creators. With this second acceleration cutting the state income tax rate by another 20 basis points, the total income tax rate will now be down to just 5.19 percent – a decrease of 56 basis points from the original rate of 5.75 percent. This expedited cut will save Georgians another 880 million dollars on their tax returns next year.

     

    “Putting money back in taxpayer pockets and delivering on our promise to further cut the state income tax is a priority I am glad we all can agree on,” said Lt. Governor Burt Jones. “With Governor Kemp’s leadership, Georgia continues to serve as an example for the rest of the nation on how to reduce taxes and give more than a billion dollars back to our citizens, while having a healthy reserve and fiscally sound budget. These bills becoming law today bring us one step closer to eliminating the state income tax, a priority I have always been a proponent of. We are able to do this because we are focused on a stable and prosperous future for all Georgians, while making financial choices that will ensure Georgia’s ongoing viability and financial stability. We will continue to make this a priority, and I look forward to seeing more of this great work in the future.”

    After today, through a one-time special tax refund, Georgians who file jointly will receive $500, single filers will receive $250, and heads of household will get $375.

    “The Georgia House was proud to champion HB 111 and HB 112 that further reduce the tax burden on hardworking Georgians and put over $1 billion back in the pockets of our state’s taxpayers,” said Speaker Jon Burns. “These historic measures reiterate our commitment to providing much-needed financial relief to families across the state and delivering on the policies that matter most to our citizens.”

    Governor Kemp also made note of the General Assembly’s ratification of his suspension of the state gas tax in the days following Hurricane Helene to provide direct relief to families, farmers, and businesses as they began to recover from the devastating storm. He is thankful to Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, OPB Director Rick Dunn, and the members of the General Assembly who worked to pass these important pieces of legislation.

    Click here for more information on the one-time special tax refund.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nigeria’s Cross River State second to commence construction of its Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone

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

    CALABAR, Nigeria, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Nigeria’s Cross River State became the second to mark construction of a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone after the country’s Vice President Kashim Shettima and African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina broke ground at the project site on Thursday 10 April.

    The SAPZ aims to tackle food insecurity, enhance local production, and position Nigeria as a food export leader by leveraging Cross River’s ports and research assets to boost global trade, reduce food imports, and drive prosperity through the agro-industrialization of crops like cocoa and cassava.

    The groundbreaking in Cross River follows that of Kaduna (http://apo-opa.co/42Mquvu) which took place few days earlier. Six other states – Kano, Kwara, Imo, Ogun, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory – are included in Phase 1 of the $538 million SAPZ program, with plans to expand to the remaining 28 states this year pending the African Development Bank’s Executive Board approval for Phase 2 funding.

    Shettima emphasized the project’s priority and need for national collaboration: “The SAPZ program has been recognized as a national priority for food security in Nigeria.” He noted, “There is no better time than now for the federal and state governments, development partners, the private sector, and our communities to work hand in hand to ensure the success of the SAPZ project.”

    Adesina celebrated the milestone, saying, “Today is a big day for Nigeria,” and added, “The Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones is bringing good news to Nigeria, State Governments and Local Governments. Good news to farmers, agribusinesses, and all rural areas of Nigeria. Good news of jobs, wealth, and prosperity with agriculture as a business.

    “With the abundant arable land, cheap labor and vast agro-ecological areas, Nigeria should not be importing food,” said Adesina who was accompanied by his wife Grace Yemisi Adesina.

    The Bank Group president highlighted Cross River’s export potential: “Bakasi deep seaport will turn the state into a logistics hub in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea, enabling trade with Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea Bissau.”

    The 130-hectare Agro-Industrial Hub in Adiabo will leverage the Calabar Sea Port, Bakassi Deep Sea Port, a 23 kVA power plant in Tinapa, and a 630 kVA Calabar Power Plant. Its Agricultural Transformation Centre, supported by the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria and the University of Calabar, lies less than 45 minutes from Ikom, Etung, and Boki, boosting cocoa production for global markets.

    Governor Bassey Otu outlined the state’s vision, saying, “For us in Cross River State, the establishment of clusters of smallholder farmers focused on staple and cash crops such as rice, cassava, millet, cocoa, and oil palm is a vital step toward agro-industrialization.”

    “These initiatives are aimed at strengthening food security, diversifying our state’s economy toward export-oriented agriculture, and boosting our GDP,” added Governor Otu, saying the state should expect to see a big difference in two years. 

    The African Development Bank Group is investing $210 million, including $50 million from its Africa Growing Together Fund. The Islamic Development Bank is contributing $150 million, the International Fund for Agricultural Development is contributing $100 million, the Green Climate Fund is contributing $60 million, and the government is contributing $18 million.

    Speaking during the occasion, the International Fund for Agricultural Development’s Country Director, Dede Ekoue, noted that the SAPZ will build on the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises in the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) project which has empowered 26,000 youth and women agripreneurs in the Niger Delta, including 4,000 in Cross River, with plans to scale to 100,000 by 2028.

    The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, said, “The SAPZ program is a powerful catalyst for economic growth and import substitution. By investing in agro-processing development, we are investing in the future of our communities.”

    The African Development Bank Group has committed $934 million to SAPZs in 11 African countries. The 2024 Africa Investment Forum (http://apo-opa.co/42eqx33), held in Morocco, recorded $2.2 billion in investor interest for 28 Nigerian states, which make up the second phase of the project.

    Adesina explained that with the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones, Nigeria will reduce food imports, conserve foreign exchange, expand local production and processing of food and agricultural commodities, strengthen the Naira, and attract significant private investment into the development of agricultural value chains.

    The Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones will also revive and transform rural economies and create millions of jobs.

    Adesina was accompanied by the African Development Bank Vice President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development Dr Beth Dunford, the Director General for Nigeria Dr Abdul Kamara, Prof Oyebanji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, Senior Special Adviser on Industrialisation, Director Richard Ofori-Mante, Director of the Agricultural Finance and Rural Development Department, and Dr Yusuf Kabir, National Coordinator for SAPZ, Nigeria.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Fargo Businessman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Leading a Large-Scale Cocaine Distribution Enterprise

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Fargo – Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that Barrett Clair Prody, Age 52 of Fort Lauderdale, FL, appeared in United States District Court today and was sentenced by Chief Judge Peter Welte to serve 190 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release for the offenses of Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Money Laundering Conspiracy, and Obstruction of Justice.  Prody was also ordered to pay a $300 special assessment fee.

    As reflected in court documents, for nearly four years, former businessman Barrett Prody led a cocaine distribution enterprise in the Fargo-Moorhead area. In total, Prody’s organization distributed as much as 25 kilograms of cocaine. A financial investigation showed Prody reaped hundreds of thousands of dollars in drug proceeds, which he then laundered through ostensibly legitimate business accounts. Prody used drug proceeds to pay for a condominium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to rent an apartment in Medellin, Colombia, and to stash more than $100,000 in an investment account. After his arrest in April 2024, Prody attempted to obstruct justice by directing a third party to transfer his condominium and investment account ownership to avoid forfeiture.

    “Barrett Prody pushed a substantial amount of cocaine into Fargo and Moorhead, with little concern for the lives impacted and families destroyed by this poisonous product,” Drug Enforcement Administration Omaha Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafael Mattei said. “Traffickers like Prody see only personal gain, not individual human lives or the life-altering consequences that can come from drug use.”

    “Barrett Prody’s greed fueled a yearslong cocaine enterprise that profited off addiction and human suffering,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Kopp. “Today’s sentence ensures accountability for his crimes.”

    This case is part of Operation Winter Weather, an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation targeting cocaine trafficking in North Dakota. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Internal Revenue Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Cass County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, District of North Dakota, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew P. Kopp and Christopher C. Myers.           

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Exploits Valley Renewable Energy Corporation Green Hydrogen Project in Central Newfoundland Receives Guidelines for Environmental Impact Statement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abraxas Power Corp. (“Abraxas Power”), a leading energy transition developer, and its subsidiary Exploits Valley Renewable Energy Corporation (“EVREC”), today announced that Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Environment and Climate Change has released the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) guidelines for the highly anticipated Green Energy Hub project in the Botwood, NL area (the “Project”). The Project, set to revolutionize energy production in the province, aims to harness renewable energy sources to produce hydrogen in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner.

    The purpose of the EIS is to identify for all phases of the Project (construction, operation and maintenance, decommissioning and rehabilitation) the important beneficial and adverse environmental effects associated with the Project, measures to mitigate adverse effects, the significance of residual environmental effects, public concerns and the response to those concerns. The comprehensive guidelines are intended to ensure that the Project is developed with the highest environmental standards in mind, supporting Newfoundland and Labrador’s commitment to a clean energy future while minimizing environmental effects.

    The release of the EIS guidelines marks the beginning of the formal environmental assessment process. Public consultations will be held throughout the process, allowing community members, stakeholders, and interested parties to find out more about the Project as it develops.

    EVREC remains committed to the responsible development of the Project and is eager to continue collaboration with stakeholders, regulators, and the public throughout the next phase of environmental review. Through the EIS, EVREC will provide further detailed information about the Project in various areas, including Project scope, water resource management, air quality and emissions, flora and fauna, and Project component locations, to name a few. The Project is expected to not only contribute to the province’s green energy transition but also create significant economic benefits, including job creation, new investment opportunities, and the establishment of Newfoundland and Labrador as a key player in the growing global hydrogen market.

    “The EIS is an essential part of our approach, and we are eager to maintain open, ongoing engagement with stakeholders and regulators while continuing to work on refining and advancing all aspects of the Project”, said Dean Comand, COO of Abraxas Power. “Newfoundland and Labrador is on the cutting edge of clean energy innovation, and this Project represents an exciting opportunity for the province to contribute to global sustainability efforts. The EIS is an important step in the process and underscores our commitment to responsible development and to working alongside communities and stakeholders to ensure that the environmental impact is carefully considered at every stage of this transformative project.”

    EVREC is a Power-to-X (P2X) project that was awarded access to over 300 square kilometres of crown lands by the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2023 for EVREC’s use in the development of its project in Central Newfoundland. EVREC will include up to 3+ gigawatts (GW) of onshore wind capacity with associated energy and molecular storage to power behind-the-meter green hydrogen (H2) and green ammonia (NH3) production. The Project anticipates generating ~180,000 tons of green H2 and ~1,000,000 tons of green NH3 annually. EVREC aims to have its own dedicated port infrastructure to export its products to global markets.

    EVREC has significantly advanced the Project through pre-construction activities which include engineering, wind resource measurement, and environmental assessment processes, including environmental data collection, and public and stakeholder engagement. The final Project design is subject to these ongoing assessments and activities.

    EVREC’S Environmental Assessment Registration can be found at:

    Botwood and Area EVREC Green Energy Project – Environment and Climate Change (gov.nl.ca)

    About Abraxas Power:

    Abraxas Power is a pioneering energy transition developer focused on decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors and creating value by solving the current and future challenges of the energy transition. Abraxas Power’s broad mandate allows it to see opportunities across technologies and geographies to transform the global energy industry. Our team has extensive experience in leading, financing, and solving the challenges associated with energy transition, and a proven track record of delivering complex, large-scale development projects across various disciplines, including renewable power and storage, hydrogen and ammonia production, industrial and precious metals, large-scale project construction, and operations at scale. The team possesses strong project finance and capital markets experience and has a history of creating value for shareholders, stakeholders, and the communities they live in. Abraxas Power has signed strategic partnerships with various global strategics and technology providers.

    Abraxas Power has secured over US$9 billion in capital projects through competitive government awards over the past year in furtherance of the energy transition, including our marquis EVREC Project.

    To learn more, visit www.abraxaspower.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 2024 warmest year on record in Europe, finds EU climate report

    Source: European Union 2

    The European State of the Climate Report finds that Europe was the fastest-warming continent in 2024. It also notes that there were record-high numbers of extreme heat days and tropical nights, as well as widespread flooding. The report calls for urgent action to increase climate resilience.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Winners of Inaugural Atlantic Canada Cleantech Awards Showcase East Coast Excellence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HALIFAX, Canada, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Foresight Canada announced the winners of the inaugural Atlantic Canada Cleantech Awards at last night’s sold-out ceremony in Halifax. The event celebrated the region’s innovators, funders, adopters, and supporters collectively accelerating clean technology adoption, catalyzing economic resilience, and advancing net zero goals. This year’s award winners exemplify the region’s capability to turn visionary ideas into tangible progress.

    Driven by breakthroughs in ocean technology and increased adoption of renewable energy, the East Coast’s growing cleantech sector is well-positioned to increase efficiency and productivity of key industries and lead a more sustainable, economically prosperous future. In 2024 alone, the Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), invested $72M in 166 cleantech projects, anticipated to generate 100,000 new clean energy jobs in Atlantic Canada by mid-century. This projected growth underscores the momentum of Atlantic Canada’s cleantech sector. Foresight Canada is proud to establish this new tradition on the East Coast, celebrating leaders whose dedication and ingenuity are shaping a resilient and sustainable economy.

    Meet the Winners

    Adopter of the Year: City of Summerside

    Summerside has emerged as a Canadian leader in community-driven sustainability. By expanding its smart grid, integrating renewable energy sources, and introducing innovative programs for energy efficiency and clean transportation, the city is paving the way toward a more sustainable future. Additionally, Summerside supports cleantech business growth through its Eco Park, a dedicated space that encourages clean economic development in the region.

    Supporter of the Year: Dalhousie University

    Researchers at Dalhousie University are developing clean, carbon-free technologies that will facilitate the transition to a more sustainable future. Their work encompasses engineering and commercializing innovative breakthroughs, including clean fuels, chemicals and materials, and long-life batteries for electric mobility. Dalhousie is playing a key role in advancing battery innovation through the establishment of Canada’s first university-based battery prototyping and testing facility, set to open in fall 2025.

    Funder of the Year: Carbon to Sea

    Carbon to Sea is the leading nonprofit evaluating ocean alkalinity enhancement for CO₂ removal at scale. Its work is aligned with key scientific bodies, such as IPCC and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. As the world’s foremost organization pursuing ocean alkalinity enhancement, Carbon to Sea funds exceptional researchers to close knowledge gaps and build a responsible sector.

    Startup Venture of the Year: pHathom Technologies

    pHathom is advancing a breakthrough carbon removal technology through its Accelerated Weathering of Limestone (AWL) process, which uses seawater and limestone to capture biogenic CO₂ while helping to reduce ocean acidification. The company aims to launch a commercial demonstration by 2027, with the potential to remove gigatons of carbon and unlock substantial revenue opportunities.

    Scaleup Venture of the Year: CarbonRun

    CarbonRun’s innovative river restoration method permanently removes CO₂ from the atmosphere and improves river health simultaneously. By adding limestone to rivers, they enhance natural carbon absorption and restore salmon habitats. With commitments from large corporate buyers for its credits, and a robust pipeline of projects that are being developed, CarbonRun is poised to make a major impact on global CDR goals.

    Learn more about all our 2025 Canada Cleantech Awards finalists and winners.

    Quotes

    “For the City of Summerside, being nominated for and receiving this award is like a boost of clean tech energy—fueling our momentum and reaffirming our path forward. Over the past 20 years, we’ve been deeply committed to validating and scaling solutions in the innovation and clean tech space. Along the way, we’ve learned that real progress takes a united effort—it takes a community to move mountains. The work we do with our partners can be complex, but it’s incredibly rewarding. By leveraging our infrastructure, collaborating with leading businesses, and cultivating a thriving ecosystem for change, Summerside is proud to lead and support Canada’s transition toward a sustainable future. Driving innovation, clean tech solutions and economic growth isn’t just our mission—it’s our passion.” — Mike Thususka, Director of Economic Development, City of Summerside

    “We are extremely honoured to be recognized by the Atlantic Canada Cleantech community. We are thankful for the support of our partners and the broader network in helping us get to this stage, and we hope to live up to your expectations by continuing to fight climate change while also restoring and enhancing the ecosystems we depend on.” — Dr. Halfyard, Co-Founder and CTO, CarbonRun

    “We’re capturing CO₂ right at the source and using natural ocean chemistry to lock it away safely for thousands of years. It’s high-integrity carbon removal, rooted in science, and it’s happening right here in Atlantic Canada. We’re honoured to accept this award and proud to be doing that work here, in a region that understands resilience, collaboration, and bold ideas.” — Kim Gilbert, CEO, pHathom Technologies

    “Nova Scotia’s growing reputation as a home for innovation makes it a great location to advance ocean climate science, and Carbon to Sea is proud to play a role in that. As the world grapples with the need to remove billions of tons of carbon from the atmosphere safely in the coming decades, we look forward to deepening our work here. We’re grateful to Foresight for this recognition, and for all they do to support climate innovation across Canada.” — Miriam Zitner, Canadian General Manager, Carbon to Sea Initiative

    “A heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the inaugural Atlantic Canada Cleantech Awards! Your innovative spirit is propelling the region’s cleantech growth in exciting new directions. We celebrate your vision and look forward to witnessing the ecosystem thrive and the significant contributions you’ll make in transforming East Coast industries.” — Jeanette Jackson, CEO, Foresight Canada

    “Marking a pivotal moment, the first Atlantic Canada Cleantech Awards celebrated the remarkable strength and innovation thriving within our region. The achievements of this year’s winners pave the way for a future where Atlantic Canada is a true leader in clean technology, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in East Coast innovation.” — Lindsay Murray, Sr. Manager, Partnerships, Foresight Canada

    About Foresight Canada

    ​​Foresight Canada helps the world do more with less, sustainably. As Canada’s largest cleantech innovation and adoption accelerator, they connect public and private sectors to the world’s best clean technologies, de-risking and simplifying the adoption of innovative solutions that improve productivity, profitability, and economic competitiveness, all while addressing today’s most urgent climate challenges.

    Contact:
    Heather Kingdon
    Manager, Communications
    hkingdon@foresightcac.com

    The Atlantic Canada Cleantech Awards are presented by Foresight and Bloom Funding with support from Bonsai Growth, MNP, Springboard Atlantic, and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). Event hosted in partnership with Smart Energy Halifax.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c628c430-d0e3-4bef-905a-fd0639b1317d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Franklin Electric Schedules Its First Quarter 2025 Earnings Release and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORT WAYNE, Ind., April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (NASDAQ: FELE) will release its first quarter 2025 earnings at 8:00 am ET on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. A conference call to review earnings and other developments in the business will commence at 9:00 am ET. The first quarter 2025 earnings call will be available via a live webcast. The webcast will be available in a listen only mode by going to:

    https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yzximy3p

    For those interested in participating in the question-and-answer portion of the call, please register for the call at the link below.

    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI5cb1cdcef9da4de38184396c5211b443

    All registrants will receive dial-in information and a PIN allowing them to access the live call. It is recommended that you join 10 minutes prior to the event start (although you may register and dial in at any time during the call).

    A replay of the conference call will be available from Tuesday, April 29, 2025, through 9:00 am ET on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, by visiting the listen-only webcast link above.

    About Franklin Electric
    Franklin Electric is a global leader in the production and marketing of systems and components for the movement of water and energy. Recognized as a technical leader in its products and services, Franklin Electric serves customers around the world in residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, municipal, and fueling applications. Franklin Electric is proud to be named in Newsweek’s lists of America’s Most Responsible Companies and Most Trustworthy Companies for 2024 and America’s Climate Leaders 2024 by USA Today.

    “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any forward-looking statements contained herein, including those relating to market conditions or the Company’s financial results, costs, expenses or expense reductions, profit margins, inventory levels, foreign currency translation rates, liquidity expectations, business goals and sales growth, involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, risks and uncertainties with respect to general economic and currency conditions, various conditions specific to the Company’s business and industry, weather conditions, new housing starts, market demand, competitive factors, changes in distribution channels, supply constraints, effect of price increases,  raw material costs, technology factors, integration of acquisitions, litigation, government and regulatory actions, the Company’s accounting policies, future trends, epidemics and pandemics, and other risks which are detailed in the Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, included in Item 1A of Part I of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, Exhibit 99.1 attached thereto and in Item 1A of Part II of the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements made herein are based on information currently available, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

    CONTACT:   Russ Fleeger
        Franklin Electric Co., Inc.
        260.824.2900

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How mine water could warm up the UK’s forgotten coal towns

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jingyi Li, Research Associate, Geothermal Energy and Climate Change, University of Manchester

    Historic coal mining in north-east England. Jingyi Li, CC BY-NC-ND

    The Ukraine war sent shockwaves through global energy markets, driving up prices and leaving households across the UK struggling with soaring energy bills. But beneath the ground, in disused coal mines, lies a hidden resource – warm water. This underused geothermal source could be transformed into affordable, low-carbon heating for homes and businesses, especially in regions hardest hit economically by the decline of coal.

    Across the UK, around 25% of the population lives above disused coal mines. This underground warmth could be harnessed by pumping naturally warm water to the surface and using heat pumps to raise its temperature for heating. This could lower energy bills and cut emissions by about the same as removing 44,000 cars from the roads annually, according to our calculations. Despite this promise, mine-water heating remains largely underutilised across the UK, as deployment has lagged far behind, leaving most of the resource untapped.

    Although flagship projects like the one in Gateshead, operational since 2023, demonstrate the feasibility of mine-water heating in the UK, they remain the exception. Deployment has been especially slow even in high-potential areas like south Wales. Meanwhile, the mine-water heating scheme at Seaham Garden Village, near Sunderland, has only recently kicked off construction after a prolonged delay since its initial planning in 2019.

    Our new research shows that despite growing interest, projects across the UK continue to be stalled by funding gaps, regulatory hurdles and a shortage of skilled workers. Without immediate action, these former coal-mining communities are at risk of falling further behind as the country moves towards cleaner energy for net zero, widening the gap between wealthier and disadvantaged regions.

    The solution is simple but not easy: sufficient and accessible funding schemes especially for those undeserved communities, streamlined regulations and support from fossil fuel companies, whose engineering expertise can be applied to mine water heating. Technology could transform a forgotten coal legacy into a sustainable future for communities in need.

    Coal production history v today’s mining village.
    Jingyi Li, CC BY-NC-ND

    The UK has a vast network of abandoned coal mines, especially in north-east England, which once produced 14% of the nation’s coal. However, around a quarter of the population in this region lives below the poverty line today.

    Many households in the north east experience fuel poverty at rates higher than the national average, with energy bills that are often higher than in most other parts of England. Mine-water heating could help address this burden, but to make a meaningful difference, both the number and scale of schemes must be increased nationwide.

    Gateshead mine water heat scheme.
    Jingyi Li, CC BY-NC-ND

    However, current government funding schemes, like the heat networks delivery unit, only cover about 33% of capital costs according to our interviewee, leaving local authorities and developers to find the rest. This competitive model disadvantages poorer areas that need the most support. Without solid financial backing, many projects will never get off the ground.

    The Coal Authority has played a key role in piloting early mine water schemes, but industry feedback points to a need for faster, more transparent deployment pathways. Developers face regulatory uncertainty in accessing mine-water heat from the Coal Authority, citing delays and procedural complexity as barriers to investment.

    Ambiguities in the regulatory framework for accessing this form of geothermal heat create delays and add to the financial burden for developers. The expertise required, such as drilling and pipework, is common in the UK’s longstanding oil and gas industry, but our research found that the current small-to-medium scale and uncertain future of mine water heating sector make it difficult to attract these skilled workers.

    Learning from the past

    Often the simplest and most reliable designs are the most effective. William Reid Clanny, a 19th-century inventor, made mine-safety lamps more sophisticated but ultimately delicate and impractical – his design required manual air pumping, used fragile glass that broke easily underground, and was too heavy for regular use. The same principle applies to mine-water heating. Straightforward, direct policies can cut through red tape to get projects up and running without unnecessary bureaucratic complications.

    Simple safety lamps like these were used by UK miners.
    Image Seeker/Shutterstock

    For mine-water heating to work on a larger scale, funding must be easier to access, especially for regions hardest hit by the decline of coal. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero could allocate funds specifically for these areas, giving them a fair chance to develop projects without having to compete with wealthier regions.

    New rules should clearly set a timeline for gaining the permission to access and exploit the underground heat. This would give developers confidence and attract investment. The US and New Zealand show how clear rules can boost interest in renewables.

    To overcome the skills shortage, the Indian government introduced a corporate social responsibility law whereby companies are required to invest a portion of their profits into local projects. Applying this approach in the UK could encourage fossil fuel companies to fund training and support local green initiatives. It could also provide opportunities for laid-off workers unable to find similar high-paying jobs abroad and training for local workers in former mining communities.

    Mine water isn’t just a low-carbon heating source, it’s a chance to deliver justice to communities long left behind. But achieving this will require decisive action from policymakers. Unlocking this hidden resource can help power the UK’s green transition.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Cathy Hollis receives funding from the Natural Environment Research Council. She is affiliated with and President of the International Association of Sedimentology, a not-for-profit, non-political scientific society.

    Alejandro Gallego Schmid and Jingyi Li 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. How mine water could warm up the UK’s forgotten coal towns – https://theconversation.com/how-mine-water-could-warm-up-the-uks-forgotten-coal-towns-241834

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Liverpool film studio scores BAFTA albert win

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Last updated:

    A Liverpool studio’s aim to be one of the UK’s greenest has been rewarded with a prestigious rating from the UK film industry.

    The Depot, which has hosted numerous award-nominated TV productions, has been named as a ‘Very Good’ BAFTA Albert sustainable studio.

    The new accolade makes The Depot one of the leading net zero studios of its kind in the country in delivering its carbon-cutting commitments.

    Owned by Liverpool City Council and managed by the Film Office, The Depot first opened its doors in 2021 and since then has welcomed productions such as This City Is Ours, The Gathering and Sexy Beast.

    A total of 31 studios participated in this round of the BAFTA Albert Studio Sustainability Standard where The Depot was awarded a rating of ‘Very Good’ with a score of 80% – compared to an average score of 77%.

    Areas in which the studio excelled were 100% LED studio lighting, providing the service of renewable generators, the sustainability policy, as well as access to green biodiverse space.

    Suggestions for improvements include installing EV charging ports, looking at the feasibility of renewable energy generation and increasing the recycling rate.

    Launched in 2022, the BAFTA Albert Studio Sustainability Standard is the world’s first sustainability assessment designed to help measure and reduce the environmental impact of film and TV studios by focusing on six key areas: Climate, Circularity, Nature, People, Management and Data.

    Each studio submits data annually under the areas highlighted to then receive a performance report as well as a grade so that benchmarking work can be done to continue to make improvements and compare other studios across the world.

    This award comes after Liverpool was announced as the world’s first UN Accelerator City for climate action, which recognises the city’s commitment to trial new ways to decarbonise the music and film production sectors.

    For more information about the Film Office, and to watch the 35th anniversary celebratory showreel, head to the official website.

    Leader of Liverpool City Council, Councillor Liam Robinson, said:
    “This is fantastic news for the city and for film and TV productions who choose Liverpool as their place to shoot their stories for screen.

    “Not only have we achieved a ‘Very Good’ rating but The Depot is leading the way for film and TV studios in the North, proving that if you want to shoot sustainable productions, Liverpool is the very best place to do this.

    “This news follows our announcement last year about our ‘plug and play’ zones across key filming and TV sites in the city centre and is yet another important step towards the city’s net-zero future.”

    Head of Liverpool Film Office, Lynn Saunders, said:
    “We’re thrilled to receive the rating of ‘Very Good’ and so proud that we’ve achieved this award in the first time in entering.

    “We’re dedicated to building on the success of filming in the Liverpool City Region by creating a sustainable screen eco system, bettering not only our skills programme but the way we work with productions when they come to our region to film.

    “By having this award, we will be able to track our progress and continue to make meaningful improvements to The Depot to better the environment for generations to come.”

    Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram said:
    “We’re proud to be leading the charge in building a cleaner, greener economy right here in the Liverpool City Region – and with The Depot becoming a ‘Very Good’ BAFTA Albert sustainable studio it shows we’re not just talking the talk, we’re walking the walk.

    “It’s brilliant to get this kind of recognition. Every step we take to build sustainability into our everyday lives leads to bigger shift – and it’s those changes that’ll help us hit our ambitious target of becoming net zero by 2035. That’s a decade ahead of the government – and proof that when we set ourselves targets, we deliver.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HAD opens temporary heat shelters

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HAD opens temporary heat shelters 
         The temporary heat shelters will remain open for people to take refuge from the heat when the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force. From 10.30pm to 8am the next day, the temporary heat shelters will also provide bedding and a sleeping place for people in need. The shelters are manned by duty attendants.
     
         For further information, please call the department’s hotline before midnight on 2572 8427.
     
         The heat shelters are located at:
     
    Hong Kong Island:
    ———————
     
    Central and Western –
    Sai Ying Pun Community Complex Community Hall
    3/F, Sai Ying Pun Community Complex
    2 High Street, Sai Ying Pun
     
    Eastern –
    Causeway Bay Community Centre
    3/F, 7 Fook Yum Road, Causeway Bay
     
    Southern –
    Lei Tung Community Hall
    Lei Tung Estate, Ap Lei Chau
     
    Wan Chai –
    Wan Chai Activities Centre
    LG/F, Wan Chai Market, 258 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai
     
    Kowloon:
    ——————
     
    Kowloon City –
    Hung Hom Community Hall
    1/F, Kowloon City Government Offices
    42 Bailey Street, Hung Hom
     
    Kwun Tong –
    Lam Tin (West) Estate Community Centre
    71 Kai Tin Road, Lam Tin
     
    Sham Shui Po –
    Shek Kip Mei Community Hall
    G/F, Block 42, Shek Kip Mei Estate
     
    Wong Tai Sin –
    Tsz Wan Shan (South) Estate Community Centre
    45 Wan Wah Street, Tsz Wan Shan
     
    Yau Tsim Mong –
    Henry G Leong Yaumatei Community Centre
    60 Public Square Street, Yau Ma Tei
     
    New Territories:
    ————————–
     
    Islands –
    Tung Chung Community Hall
    G/F, Tung Chung Municipal Services Building, 39 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung
     
    Kwai Tsing –
    Cheung Fat Estate Community Centre
    6 Tam Kon Shan Road, Tsing Yi

    North –
    Cheung Wah Community Hall
    Cheung Wah Estate, Fanling
     
    Sai Kung –
    Hang Hau Community Hall
    G/F, Sai Kung Tseung Kwan O Government Complex, 38 Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O
     
    Sha Tin –
    Lung Hang Estate Community Centre
    Lung Hang Estate, Sha Tin
     
    Tai Po –
    Tai Po Community Centre
    2 Heung Sze Wui Street, Tai Po
     
    Tsuen Wan –
    Lei Muk Shue Community Hall
    G/F, Hong Shue House, Lei Muk Shue Estate, Tsuen Wan
     
    Tuen Mun –
    Butterfly Bay Community Centre
    Butterfly Estate (near Tip Sum House), Tuen Mun
     
    Yuen Long –
    Long Ping Community Hall
    Long Ping Estate, Yuen Long
     
    Yuen Long –
    Tin Yiu Community Centre
    Tin Yiu Estate, Tin Shui Wai
     
         In addition to the above heat shelters, a number of community halls/community centres can also be used for taking refuge from the heat during their operating hours. For their address details, please browse the following document: www.had.gov.hk/file_manager/en/documents/public_services/emergency_services/List_CH_CC_Day_E.pdfIssued at HKT 17:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Announces 31st Human Exploration Rover Challenge Winners

    Source: NASA

    NASA has announced the winning student teams in the 2025 Human Exploration Rover Challenge. This year’s competition challenged teams to design, build, and test a lunar rover powered by either human pilots or remote control. In the human-powered division, Parish Episcopal School in Dallas, Texas, earned first place in the high school division, and the Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina, captured the college and university title. In the remote-control division, Bright Foundation in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, earned first place in the middle and high school division, and the Instituto Tecnologico de Santa Domingo in the Dominican Republic, captured the college and university title.
    The annual engineering competition – one of NASA’s longest standing student challenges – wrapped up on April 11 and April 12, at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, near NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. The complete list of 2025 award winners is provided below:

    First Place: Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, Texas
    Second Place: Ecambia High School, Pensacola, Florida
    Third Place: Centro Boliviano Americano – Santa Cruz, Bolivia

    First Place: Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina
    Second Place: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
    Third Place: University of Alabama in Huntsville

    First Place: Bright Foundation, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
    Second Place: Assumption College, Brangrak, Bangkok, Thailand
    Third Place: Erie High School, Erie, Colorado

    First Place: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
    Second Place: Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina
    Third Place: Tecnologico de Monterey – Campus Cuernvaca, Xochitepec, Morelos, Mexico

     Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

    Human-Powered

    High School Division: International Hope School of Bangladesh, Uttara, Dhaka, Bangladesh
    College/University Division: Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama

    Remote-Control

    Middle School/High School Division: Bright Foundation, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
    College/University Division: Southwest Oklahoma State University, Weatherford, Oklahoma

    Remote-Control

    Middle School/High School Division: Assumption College, Bangrak, Bangkok, Thailand
    College/University Division: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

    Human-Powered

    High School Division: Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, Texas
    College/University Division: Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina

    Remote-Control

    Middle School/High School Division: Bright Foundation, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
    College/University Division: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

    Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina

    Human-Powered

    High School Division: Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, Texas
    College/University Division: University of Alabama in Huntsville

    Universidad de Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico (Human-Powered Division)

    Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (Human-Powered Division)

    Human-Powered

    High School Division: Albertville Innovation School, Albertville, Alabama
    College/University Division: Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

    Remote-Control

    Middle School/High School Division: Instituto Salesiano Don Bosco, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
    College/University Division: Tecnologico de Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

    Human-Powered

    High School Division: International Hope School of Bagladesh, Uttara, Dhaka, Bangladesh
    College/University Division: Universidad Catolica Boliviana “San Pablo” La Paz, Bolivia

    Remote-Control

    Middle School/High School Division: ATLAS SkillTech University, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
    College/University Division: Instituto Salesiano Don Bosco, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

    Human-Powered

    High School Division: Space Education Institute, Leipzig, Germany
    College/University Division: Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, Indiana

    Remote-Control

    Middle School/High School Division: Erie High School, Erie, Colorado
    College/University Division: Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina

    Human-Powered

    High School Division: Academy of Arts, Career, and Technology, Reno, Nevada
    College/University Division: Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

    Fabion Diaz Palacious from Universidad Catolica Boliviana “San Pablo” La Paz, Bolivia

    Deira International School, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    More than 500 students with 75 teams from around the world participated in the  31st year of the competition. Participating teams represented 35 colleges and universities, 38 high schools, and two middle schools from 20 states, Puerto Rico, and 16 other nations. Teams were awarded points based on navigating a half-mile obstacle course, conducting mission-specific task challenges, and completing multiple safety and design reviews with NASA engineers. 
    NASA expanded the 2025 challenge to include a remote-control division, Remote-Operated Vehicular Research, and invited middle school students to participate. 
    “This student design challenge encourages the next generation of scientists and engineers to engage in the design process by providing innovative concepts and unique perspectives,” said Vemitra Alexander, who leads the challenge for NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement at Marshall. “This challenge also continues NASA’s legacy of providing valuable experiences to students who may be responsible for planning future space missions, including crewed missions to other worlds.”
    The rover challenge is one of NASA’s eight Artemis Student Challenges reflecting the goals of the Artemis campaign, which will land Americans on the Moon while establishing a long-term presence for science and exploration, preparing for future human missions to Mars. NASA uses such challenges to encourage students to pursue degrees and careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 
    The competition is managed by NASA’s Southeast Regional Office of STEM Engagement at Marshall. Since its inception in 1994, more than 15,000 students have participated – with many former students now working at NASA, or within the aerospace industry.    
    To learn more about the Human Exploration Rover Challenge, please visit: 
    https://www.nasa.gov/roverchallenge/home/index.html

    Taylor GoodwinMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala.256.544.0034taylor.goodwin@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Sets Coverage for SpaceX 32nd Station Resupply Launch, Arrival

    Source: NASA

    NASA and SpaceX are targeting 4:15 a.m. EDT, Monday, April 21, for the next launch to deliver science investigations, supplies, and equipment to the International Space Station. This is the 32nd SpaceX commercial resupply services mission to the orbiting laboratory for the agency.
    Filled with more than 6,400 pounds of supplies, a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on a Falcon 9 rocket will lift off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
    Live launch coverage will begin at 3:55 a.m. on NASA+. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms.
    NASA’s coverage of Dragon’s arrival to the orbital outpost will begin at 6:45 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, on NASA+. The spacecraft will dock autonomously to the zenith port of the space station’s Harmony module.
    Along with food and essential equipment for the crew, Dragon is delivering a variety of science experiments, including a demonstration of refined maneuvers for free-floating robots. Dragon also carries an enhanced air quality monitoring system that could protect crew members on exploration missions to the Moon and Mars, and two atomic clocks to examine fundamental physics concepts such as relativity and test worldwide synchronization of precision timepieces.
    The Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to remain at the space station until May, when it will depart and return to Earth with research and cargo, splashing down off the coast of California.
    NASA’s mission coverage is as follows (all times Eastern and subject to change based on real-time operations):
    Wednesday, April 16
    1 p.m. – International Space Station National Lab Science Webinar with the following participants:

    Jennifer Buchli, chief scientist, NASA’s International Space Station Program
    Michael Roberts, chief scientific officer, International Space Station National Lab
    Claire Fortenberry, research aerospace engineer, NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland
    Yupeng Chen, co-founder, Eascra Biotech
    Mari Anne Snow, CEO, Eascra Biotech
    Maj. Travis Tubbs, U.S. Air Force Academy
    Heath Mills, co-founder, Rhodium Scientific
    Sarah Wyatt, researcher, Ohio University

    Media who wish to participate must register for Zoom access no later than one hour before the start of the webinar.
    Audio of the teleconference will stream live on the International Space Station National Lab website.
    Friday, April 18
    3 p.m. – Prelaunch media teleconference (no earlier than one hour after completion of the Launch Readiness Review) with the following participants:

    Zebulon Scoville, deputy manager, Transportation Integration Office, NASA’s International Space Station Program
    Jennifer Buchli, chief scientist, NASA’s International Space Station Program
    Sarah Walker, director, Dragon Mission Management, SpaceX
    Jimmy Taeger, launch weather officer, 45th Weather Squadron, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

    Media who wish to participate by phone must request dial-in information by 5 p.m. Thursday, April 17, by emailing Kennedy’s newsroom at: ksc-media-accreditat@mail.nasa.gov.
    Audio of the teleconference will stream live on the agency’s website.
    Monday, April 21:
    3:55 a.m. – Launch coverage begins on NASA+.
    4:15 a.m. – Launch
    Tuesday, April 22:
    6:45 a.m. – Arrival coverage begins on NASA+.
    8:20 a.m. – Docking
    NASA website launch coverageLaunch day coverage of the mission will be available on the NASA website. Coverage will include live streaming and blog updates beginning no earlier than 3:55 a.m., April 21, as the countdown milestones occur. On-demand streaming video on NASA+ and photos of the launch will be available shortly after liftoff. For questions about countdown coverage, contact the NASA Kennedy newsroom at 321-867-2468. Follow countdown coverage on our International Space Station blog for updates.
    Attend Launch Virtually
    Members of the public can register to attend this launch virtually. NASA’s virtual guest program for this mission also includes curated launch resources, notifications about related opportunities or changes, and a stamp for the NASA virtual guest passport following launch.
    Watch, Engage on Social Media
    Let people know you’re watching the mission on X, Facebook, and Instagram by following and tagging these accounts:
    X: @NASA, @NASAKennedy, @NASASocial, @Space_Station, @ISS_Research, 
    @ISS National Lab
    Facebook: NASA, NASAKennedy, ISS, ISS National Lab
    Instagram: @NASA, @NASAKennedy, @ISS, @ISSNationalLab
    Coverage en Espanol
    Did you know NASA has a Spanish section called NASA en Espanol? Check out NASA en Espanol on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for additional mission coverage.
    Para obtener información sobre cobertura en español en el Centro Espacial Kennedy o si desea solicitar entrevistas en español, comuníquese con Antonia Jaramillo o Messod Bendayan a: antonia.jaramillobotero@nasa.gov o messod.c.bendayan@nasa.gov.
    Learn more about the commercial resupply mission at:

    NASA’s SpaceX CRS-32

    -end-
    Julian Coltre / Josh FinchHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100julian.n.coltre@nasa.gov / joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov
    Stephanie Plucinsky / Steven SiceloffKennedy Space Center, Florida321-876-2468stephanie.n.plucinsky@nasa.gov / steven.p.siceloff@nasa.gov
    Sandra JonesJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Welcomes UK Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh MP to Manchester Training Centre to Discuss Growing Demand for Heat Pumps and the Workforce of the Future

    Source: Samsung

     
     
    Samsung welcomed the Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh MP to the Manchester Training Centre to discuss the growing heat pump industry and the opportunity for upskilling the workforce of the future, particularly around apprenticeships.
     
    Minister Fahnbulleh spoke to Samsung Technical Degree Apprentice Joshua Long, who is currently in his third year of a Building Services Design Engineering Degree at London Southbank University while working on the design and specification of heating and cooling systems at Samsung.  The Minister also met with the Samsung Climate Solutions team and toured the training facility in Sale, learning about the range of products, training offered and future plans.
     
    Collaboration between government and industry is central to hitting government targets for heat pump installs and reaching Net Zero by 2050. This is reflected in the current growth in installs, as February 2025 saw a 68% increase in Boiler Upgrade Scheme vouchers issued compared to February 2024.[1] Training the workforce is essential to meet the rising demand and Samsung is committed to delivering continued growth in 2025 following an increase in its training numbers in the UK by almost 70% in 2024 compared to 2023[2].
     
    Minister Fahnbulleh said: “The figures for our Boiler Upgrade Scheme speak for themselves. Heat pump demand is rising rapidly, meaning we need a growing, highly-skilled workforce to deliver thousands more installations. It was fantastic to visit Samsung and hear from apprentices about the brilliant work being done to train the next generation of heat pump installers.”
     
    Joshua Long commented: “I really valued the opportunity to meet the Minister and discuss why apprenticeships are such an important part of ensuring we have the skills needed for the transition towards Net Zero. For me, my apprenticeship has opened up a new career path to learn from my experienced colleagues as well as earn my degree. I chose this apprenticeship because I wanted to be part of the bigger picture of changing the way we use energy and heat our buildings in the UK. This is a really exciting time to join the sector, and I’m proud to be part of the growth and development of heat pumps.”
     
    [1]https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/boiler-upgrade-scheme-statistics-february-2025
    [2]Training data from internal records at Samsung Climate Solutions

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dunball Sluice £9.7 million upgrade completed 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Dunball Sluice £9.7 million upgrade completed 

    Dunball Sluice – a vital flood defence asset near Bridgwater – has been successfully refurbished by the Environment Agency. 

    Dunball sluice performs a vital flood and water management function on the Somerset Levels and Moors.

    A £9.7million project has given the sluice another 25 years of operational life, helping to better protect properties, businesses and internationally important habitats across the Somerset Levels and Moors. 

    Delivered by the Environment Agency’s Combined Delivery Framework (CDF) partners, the refurbishment began in 2022 and was funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), with a £650,000 contribution from the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA). 

    Dunball Sluice became operational in 1971. It sits where the tidal River Parrett meets the 13.5-mile-long King’s Sedgemoor Drain – River Sowy system. The Sowy was created in tandem with the Sluice in 1969-1972: it is also known as the Parrett Flood Relief Channel. Water flows into the Sowy from the Parrett downstream of Langport, and then into the KSD, before rejoining the Parrett through Dunball Sluice. 

    Refurbishment began in 2022 and has been completed in partnership with the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) and Defra.

    The Environment Agency uses the sluice’s lifting gates and tidal flaps to control flows between the different watercourses. Doing this helps to manage water levels and reduce flood risks for communities across a large area. Blocking the flow of tidal saltwater from the Parrett into the KSD also helps to safeguard precious freshwater habitats on the Somerset Levels and Moors.  

    The refurbishment replaced and upgraded key mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control and automation components, many of which were nearing the end of their working life. Also included were measures to help otters and eels move more easily and safely between watercourses, health and safety improvements for site staff and minor concrete repairs. 

    ‘New life breathed into the structure’

    Rachel Burden, Environment Agency flood and coastal risk manager for Wessex, said:   

    Dunball Sluice is one of Somerset’s most important tidal defence assets, but many of its key components were reaching the end of their working life.

    This multi-million-pound refurbishment has breathed new life into the structure, ensuring it can continue to reduce flood risk for communities for years to come.

    Councillor Mike Stanton, Chair of Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA), said: 

    Maintenance and improvement works are not glamorous, but they are very important. Local people expect flood defences to work properly, and all of us should try to make sure they do. So, I’m pleased that Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) funding helped to refurbish Dunball Sluice. 

    I’m happy too because this project ties in with a major SRA improvements scheme for other parts of the River Sowy-KSD system. This year the SRA is funding upgrades for two outfall structures and up to 1.8 kilometres of bank raising works along the KSD.

    Bit by bit, as partners work together, we’re reducing flood risks around Bridgwater and across a large part of the Somerset Levels and Moors.

    Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

    The Dunball Sluice is critical infrastructure better protecting properties and farmland in Somerset, and its full refurbishment will give local people and businesses confidence that their flood defences are operating well for the next 25 years.

    This Government inherited flood defences in their worst condition on record. Through our Plan for Change, we‘re investing over £144 million into the south west of England, an essential investment to build new defences and to bring existing ones up to their required condition, ensuring 1,700 properties in the region are better protected from flooding.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Heavy rain weather warning – advice and information

    Source: Northern Ireland Direct

    Date published:

    There is a heavy rain weather warning in some areas for Wednesday 16 April. Travel delays, difficult driving conditions, flooding, and power cuts possible. The Flooding Incident Line number is 0300 2000 100.

    Weather warning

    The Met Office has sent out a weather warning for heavy rain.  

    Weather warnings let the public and emergency services know about potentially hazardous conditions. 

    You can find out more about weather warnings on the Met Office website.

    Emergency numbers

    You should note the following numbers in case of emergency:

    There is information about emergencies at this link:

    The Flooding Incident Line is available 24 hours a day, every day. You can report flooding problems on roads, burst water mains and blocked drains.

    When you phone 0300 2000 100, a member of staff will:

    • take your details
    • contact the appropriate agency on your behalf

    This is a non-emergency number, so if you are in danger call the emergency services on 999.

    You can get more information about flooding at the following link:

    Plan your journey

    You should always plan your journey and check the latest weather and travel advice.

    Ask yourself if you can delay your journey until conditions improve.

    If you do travel, plan your journey carefully and allow extra time.

    Power cuts

    If adverse weather causes power cuts, you can get the latest information at this link:

    If your power is off and you want to report it or get more information, contact:

    Financial help if your house floods

    If your home is flooded due to heavy rainfall, contact the local council and ask about their emergency payments scheme.

    Report a fallen tree or blocked road

    You can report a fallen tree or blocked road at the following link:

    Or by phoning 0300 200 7899.

    Roads information

    If there are any problems on the roads because of flooding, you can get the latest updates on the TrafficwatchNI website.

    Public transport

    You can find the latest information about bus and rail services on the Translink website. 

    Local council services

    If local council services are affected by adverse weather, the latest information should be available on council websites.

    Preparing for a flood

    To help reduce the impact of flooding on your home, you should:

    • have some sandbags, floodboards, or plastic covers prepared to block doorways and airbricks
    • know where to turn off your electricity and/ or gas
    • move your valuable belongings to safety
    • make sure your insurance provides cover against flood damage to property
    • keep a list of useful contact numbers such as your local council, emergency services, and your insurance company

    You can get more details on the preparing for a flood page.

    Driving and walking in flooded areas

    You should always plan your journey and check the latest weather and travel advice.

    Do not travel in heavy rainstorms unless absolutely necessary.

    In flooded areas, drivers should:

    • not enter flood water that is moving or is more than four inches deep
    • not drive through fast-flowing water under any circumstances as the car could be swept away

    In more shallow but passable water:

    • slow down
    • avoid creating bow waves which can damage your car engine

    and

    • remember to test the brakes after leaving the water

    Be aware of hidden dangers under the water, such as missing manhole covers, and guard against the possibility of falling into fast-flowing water.

    Do not try to walk through flooded areas. Even shallow water moving fast can sweep you off your feet and there may be hidden dangers, such as:

    • open drains
    • damaged road surfaces
    • submerged debris

    or

    • deep channels which can result in serious injury or, in the worst cases, death

    If you do become stranded in flood water and you feel there is a risk to life, dial 999 for emergency help.

    Insurance claims after a flood

    If you are going to report flood damage to your insurance company there are certain things to remember.

    You should keep a record of the flood damage and any contact you have with the insurance company.

    If you have different insurers for the structure of your home and your contents, make sure you contact both.

    If you live in rented accommodation, the landlord will deal with the structure of your home. For contents claims, contact your own insurer.

    You can find out more at this link:

    Preventing health problems

    The risk of becoming ill after contact with flood water is generally low.

    However, as it is not always clear whether flood water is contaminated, you should assume that it is and take appropriate precautions.

    There are things you can do to prevent health problems if your home floods:

    • wherever possible try to avoid coming into direct contact with flood water
    • do not let children play in flood water
    • use rubber gloves when cleaning up
    • wash hands after being in contact with flood water, sewage or anything contaminated by these
    • wash children’s hands regularly
    • clean toys that have been in flood water with disinfectant
    • cover cuts or open sores
    • don’t eat any food that has been in contact with flood water
    • clean all surfaces with disinfectant before any food is placed on them

    Contact your GP if you, or someone you know, develops a stomach upset following flooding.

    More useful links

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Service enhancements improve bus connection between hospital and city centre

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council and Notts and Derby are working to deliver an improved Link 2 bus service between the City Centre and Royal Derby Hospital, via Mickleover and Mackworth.

    With the help of funding from the Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, improvements to the existing Link 2 service will see the service head into the city centre and back to the hospital via the A52 Ashbourne Road.

    The service will also run every hour and complement hospital shift times, making it easier for staff to get to and from work.

    The Council is carrying out an ongoing review of the city’s bus network as it works to make Derby a better connected, sustainable city, and enhance links to key destinations such as the Royal Derby Hospital.

    Earlier this year the Council and Notts and Derby worked together to improve services connecting Spondon Train Station and Spondon Village.

    These enhancements have been funded by the National Bus Strategy: Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), which calls for Local Transport Authorities to deliver better bus services and implement measures to improve public transport. Derby’s BSIP can be viewed on the Derby City Council website.

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

    As a Council we are committed to creating a greener, better-connected city. It is enhancements like this that give our communities better, more sustainable options.

    As chair of the Enhanced Partnership Board, I’m glad we’ve been able to work with Notts and Derby to deliver the services our city needs.

    Stuart Frost, Manager at Notts & Derby said:

    We are really looking forward to be providing a reliable service to the residents of Mackworth and Mickelover to hopefully make there connections much easier.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Proposed updates to forest types and default carbon tables for exotic forests in the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme and other regulatory amendments

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    Have your say

    The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is consulting on changes to improve the default carbon tables for exotic forests in the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS). Default carbon tables are used by small-scale forestry participants to calculate the carbon stored in their forests. We are also consulting on other technical regulatory amendments for forestry in the NZ ETS.

    We want your feedback about the proposals – summaries are on this page and full details are in the discussion document.

    You can send us your submission from 15 April until 5pm on 16 May 2025.

    Discussion document

    Proposed changes to forestry in the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS)  [PDF, 2.1 MB]

    Related documents

    Evaluating the potential for a default carbon table for redwoods and an updated default table for the exotic softwoods forest type for use in the ETS summary report [PDF, 3.3 MB]

    Section D: Technical report: Evaluating alternative carbon modelling and analysis models for redwoods [PDF, 2 MB]

    Section E: Impacts of silviculture and coppicing on carbon stocks in redwoods [PDF, 3.3 MB]

    Updated default tables for the exotic hardwoods forest type for use in the ETS [PDF, 2.7 MB]

    Updating radiata pine carbon yield tables for use in the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme [PDF, 3.6 MB]

    Proposed updated and new default carbon tables in Excel format [XLSX, 86 KB]

    Introduction and summaries of the proposals

    The Maximising Forest Carbon Programme aims to improve how we measure, recognise, and reward carbon storage in our native and exotic forests. One of the ways it will do this is by improving the accuracy of the default carbon tables.

    Find out about Maximising Forest Carbon Programme

    Summary of proposed changes to the default carbon tables for exotic forests

    Participants with less than 100 hectares of forest land registered in the NZ ETS use the default carbon tables to calculate their forest’s carbon storage. The tables were developed in 2007–2008 using the best data available at the time but have not been meaningfully updated since.

    Tree species in the NZ ETS are grouped into 5 forest types for carbon calculations. These are:

    • Pinus radiata (radiata pine)
    • Douglas-fir
    • exotic hardwoods
    • exotic softwoods
    • indigenous (native).

    We are proposing updates to default carbon tables for the following types of exotic forest:

    • exotic softwoods
    • exotic hardwoods
    • Pinus radiata (radiata pine)

    We’re also proposing to introduce a new forest type and default tables for redwoods. Redwoods are currently in the exotic softwoods forest type but under our proposals redwoods would be separated from exotic softwoods.

    These improvements will help to ensure:

    • the forest types in the NZ ETS reflect the main types of forest grown in New Zealand
    • the default carbon tables provide robust carbon sequestration estimates
    • small-scale forestry participants are fairly rewarded for their carbon sequestration.

    Summary of proposed regulatory amendments in the NZ ETS

    Separate to the default tables proposals, we are also proposing some smaller amendments to the Climate Change (Forestry) Regulations 2022. These changes address technical issues. They are: 

    • clarifying whether young forests that fail to thrive should be considered first or subsequent rotation under averaging accounting
    • updating the deadline for the input calculator to align more closely to the deadline for emissions returns
    • streamlining the processing for transmissions of interest
    • simplifying the treatment of small areas
    • future-proofing the method of spatial measurement used for determining land area.

    Making your submission

    Send us your feedback on the proposals by 5pm on 16 May 2025.

    You can submit feedback on the whole document, or just the areas relevant to you.

    There are 3 ways you can make a submission – using an online form, or by emailing or posting your submission. 

    Online

    Complete our online submission form – Alchemer

    Email or post

    If you are sending us a submission by email or post, we encourage you to use the submission template. The submission template has the same questions as the online form.

    Optional submission form template [DOCX, 120 KB]

    When you have completed your submission, email it to etsforestrychanges@mpi.govt.nz

    Or post it to:

    Maximising Forest Carbon Programme
    Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service
    PO Box 2526
    Wellington 6140.

    Include the title of the consultation document with your submission: Proposed changes to forestry in the NZ ETS.

    Additionally, you may choose to include the following optional details:

    • your name and title
    • your organisation’s name (if you are submitting on behalf of an organisation, and whether your submission represents the whole organisation or a section of it)
    • your contact details (such as phone number, address, and email).

    Providing this information is optional. If you do include it, it will help us gain more insights from your submission.

    If you’d like more information, email etsforestrychanges@mpi.govt.nz

    Submissions are public information

    Note that all, part, or a summary of your submission may be published on this website. Most often this happens when we issue a document that reviews the submissions received.

    People can also ask for copies of submissions under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). The OIA says we must make the content of submissions available unless we have good reason for withholding it. Those reasons are detailed in sections 6 and 9 of the OIA.

    If you think there are grounds to withhold specific information from publication, make this clear in your submission or contact us. Reasons may include that it discloses commercially sensitive or personal information. However, any decision MPI makes to withhold details can be reviewed by the Ombudsman, who may direct us to release it.

    Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Belconnen Oval Wetland is now open

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 15/04/2025 – Joint media release

    The Belconnen Oval Wetland is now open for visitors to enjoy after major works to help filter stormwater flows to reduce pollution in Lake Ginninderra.

    The ponds in the wetland will filter approximately 30% of nutrients and solids from water in the Emu Bank catchment that can cause toxic blue-green algae before it reaches the lake.

    This is the first stormwater wetland in the ACT to include subsurface elements, in addition to a traditional wetland and ponds, meaning water flows underground through the roots of the wetland plants. The roots absorb the nutrients from the water to nourish the plants above so they can grow, while cleaning the flowing stormwater below.

    Visitors should take care while exploring the area and walk only on the footpaths. The plants, reeds and grasses are part of a delicate ecosystem that are still maturing.

    The Belconnen Wetland Oval project is delivered through the ACT Healthy Waterways program to help keep our waterways clean.

    To learn more about the Healthy Waterways program, visit the ACT Environment website.

    Quotes attributable to Suzanne Orr, Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water:

    “The wetland is a great example of how nature-positive outcomes can also create great places for our community.

    “The Belconnen Oval Wetland is the latest in a series of Healthy Waterways infrastructure projects that include the construction of wetlands, ponds, rain gardens all to improve the quality of our waterways and stormwater systems. “

    Quotes attributable to Tara Cheyne, Minister for City and Government Services:

    “This new wetland offers a peaceful place for visitors to enjoy. As the reeds, grasses, and trees mature over the years, they will create a thriving, natural ecosystem.

    “Centrally located on the eastern side of Belconnen Oval, I encourage the Belconnen community to explore the area via the new footpaths and take advantage of the surrounding benches.

    “We built this wetland in consultation with the community, and it’s a great place for residents to explore, spend time with friends and family, or simply relax on their own.”

    – Statement ends –

    Tara Cheyne, MLA | Suzanne Orr, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –