Page 67 – Green Prophet

Desert art and solar energy in Oman

Art
Energy

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May 30, 2024

French artist Saype creates a natural sand mural in the desery of Oman — French-Swiss artist Saype realized a giant landart painting on March 11th, 2023 at the Ibri solar farm, Ibri 2 IPP Project, in Oman.

Oman is increasingly becoming a key player in the global push towards renewable energy, leveraging its vast desert landscapes to harness solar power. Look to the Ibri Solar Project, a 500 MW capacity plant that underscores the nation’s commitment to diversifying its energy sources and reducing its carbon footprint and diversifying away from oil.

Highlighting this beautiful scene is the French-Swiss artist Saype who laid out a mural of hope in the sands of the Wahiba Desert. With an overall area of 11,250 square meters, this artwork was created using biodegradable pigments made out of charcoal and chalk. This work questions us about our relationship to energy, and the new solutions to get out of fossil fuels.

The Ibri Solar Project, located in Al Dhahirah Governorate, is a cornerstone of Oman’s renewable energy strategy. Operational since early 2021, it represents a significant leap in the nation’s quest to derive 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

The plant, covering an area of 1,300 hectares, features over 1.4 million solar panels and is expected to produce approximately 1,500 GWh of clean electricity annually. This is sufficient to power around 50,000 homes and reduce CO2 emissions by about 340,000 tons per year, equivalent to taking nearly 70,000 cars off the road

The project is a collaboration between the Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP) and a consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s fossil fuel company ACWA Power, which includes Gulf Investment Corporation and Alternative Energy Projects Company. ACWA Power is the lead investor in the project with a 50 percent stake, GIC has a 40 percent stake and AEPC controls the remaining 10 percent.

Saype’s mural spanned over 5,000 square meters of the desert, depicting a pair of hands holding a seedling. This artwork, part of his worldwide “Beyond Walls” project, aims to connect communities across borders through a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and social unity. Let’s hope the same can happen between Gaza and Israel.

The Future of Texas Energy: Is Transitioning to 100% Renewables Possible?

Energy

Bhok Thompson

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May 29, 2024

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Texas has been called the “Energy Capital of the World” for good reason. According to the EIA, the state is the country’s top crude oil and natural gas producer, accounting for 27 percent of its natural gas production and 42 percent of its crude oil production. The state also houses the majority of the nation’s oil refineries.

Texas has many energy sources. However, it is also the country’s primary energy consumer. The industrial sector accounts for over half of the state’s energy consumption. However, Texas is determined to harness different energy sources, including wind and solar. Let’s explore how Texas plans to achieve its goal of fully transitioning to renewable energy.

Current Trends on Energy Consumption in Texas

Since Texas is a major energy producer, its energy consumption is changing significantly. The state uses solar and wind power as sustainable energy sources. Increasing electricity demands and a call for energy efficiency are also steering the trends in the state. Some of these critical trends include:

Primary sources of energy

Natural gas is Texas’s predominant energy source, generating most of its electricity. It’s also cost-effective and cost-efficient compared to coal, giving Texas more reason to focus on natural gas as an energy source.

Local power plants are shifting from coal to natural gas, significantly reducing carbon emissions. This shift helps decrease the negative impact on the environment.

Population growth and urbanization

Texan cities, such as Houston, Dallas, and Austin, are seeing rapid population growth. The state also has a robust industrial sector, including manufacturing, petrochemicals, and technology. These sectors continuously grow and create a surge in energy consumption and demand.

Electricity and natural gas usage have become apparent in residential and commercial areas. As such, there’s an increasing demand for better infrastructure and diversified energy sources. Consumers primarily shape the energy landscape in Texas. Meeting their needs and ensuring sustainability and reliability remain priorities.

Technological advancements

Advances in energy storage technologies are now evident. These advancements are more viable. They address the unpredictability that could result from using renewable energy sources.

Innovations in grid management are also noted. Real-time data analytics and automated controls are crucial. They enhance the energy system’s overall stability and efficiency.

Environmental policies and regulations

As the world’s eyes shift to climate change awareness, the need for environmental sustainability becomes greater. Energy policies are influenced and modified with these environmental changes in mind. A great emphasis has been placed on reducing carbon emissions and the shifting to cleaner energy sources. They are at the forefront of the new policies and regulations being made.

Federal and state regulations are now changing to support the adoption of renewable energy. They’re also aiming to improve grid reliability and encourage energy efficiency.

Market trends and consumer behavior

Global market trends and technological changes affect the fluctuating energy prices. Even policy shifts have influenced the masses’ energy consumption patterns and investment decisions.

As investments in energy infrastructures in Texas increase, so does the hope for a better future for the state’s energy landscape. Transmission lines and renewable energy projects are currently under construction. These developments can all contribute to much-needed environmental change.

Decentralization and Distributed Energy Resources (DER)

The decentralization of energy systems is an emerging trend in Texas. Many homes and companies have recently chosen to install rooftop solar panels and home battery systems. This shift in systems has contributed to a well-distributed energy grid.

Another trend gaining popularity is the development of microgrids. Localized energy solutions have emerged that improve energy efficiency, resilience, and reliability. The development of microgrids is evident in remote or critical infrastructure locations.

Expansion of Renewable Energy

As mentioned, Texas is renowned for its oil and natural gas resources. At present, they’re also expanding their horizons to renewable energy sources. You can expect nothing less from the country’s leader in wind energy production and solar power generation.

These developments are driven by many factors, primarily technological advancements and reduced costs. Supportive environmental policies and regulations also play a role.

Development of wind and solar power

Texas’s efforts in developing wind and solar power are exceptional. These movements have reinforced Texas’s national leadership in renewable energy. The state houses the largest installed wind capacity in the country, and this ingenuity takes advantage of the favorable wind conditions in Texas.

Texas has been investing heavily in wind farms, specifically those located in West Texas. At present, wind energy generated in the state accounts for over 26 percent of all wind-sourced electricity in the USA.

Solar power has also become widespread, mainly because it has become readily available to the masses. In fact, the costs of solar panels have decreased. Large-scale solar projects have become commonplace in the state, creating an abundant energy mix.

The state has plenty of wind and solar power, further diversifying energy sources. This leads to significant economic growth, job creation, and a reduction in carbon emissions.

Innovations in renewable energy technologies

Texas is spearheading the clean energy revolution. The state continually supports breakthroughs in photovoltaic (PV) technology and innovates wind turbine efficiency. These advancements promote the efficiency and reliability of wind and solar power systems.

Innovations in renewable energy source technology make these goals doable and cost-effective. They also cement Texas’s position as the 100 percent renewable energy source movement leader.

Investment in renewable infrastructure

Texas has invested in smart grid technologies as a proponent of shifting to renewable energy. These technologies boost the power grid’s efficiency, reliability, and resiliency. Additionally, these advancements help manage demand and integrate renewable energy sources effectively.

The standards for energy efficiency for appliances and buildings have improved. At present, these changes are being implemented to help reduce energy consumption. They’re also targeting the reduction of consumers’ utility bills.

Government and private sector initiatives

Texas aims to make the transition to renewable energy more appealing. Policy incentives have been implemented to encourage people to show their support for the state’s environmental goals.

Texas is offering a 100 percent tax exemption on the appraised value of wind, on-site solar, or biomass power generators. Additionally, a franchise tax exemption is being offered to specific groups, including sellers, installers, and manufacturers of solar energy devices.

Texas also permits a deduction on the margin allocated to the state. This is permissible within Texas’s use and purchase of specific solar energy products.

The private sector also takes initiatives to further these environmental projects and goals. Companies like Rhythm Energy offers Texas energy plans to help with the transition. These energy plans are fully powered by renewable sources. They allow individuals and businesses to contribute to Texas’s vision of a renewable energy future.

Trajectory of renewable energy in Texas

While Texas’s goal for the future is clean and bright, obstacles must be overcome. Fortunately, alongside these challenges are opportunities. It’s possible to fully realize and achieve the goal of running purely on renewable energy.

Challenges ahead

Many are scrutinizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. The quest for a future for renewable energy has also been scrutinized. Unfavorable reactions have risen on a state level across the country as a response to popular ESG trends. Policies with goals that don’t align with ESG’s visions are also currently being pursued.

Opportunities to look out for

Although some policies might be made to counter the ESG-related efforts, Texas still shows promise. The local policymakers actively support ESG-related initiatives and industries. They’re encouraging companies to explore renewable energy as part of their energy strategy. As soon as more people and businesses join this movement, the goal of a total renewable energy transition will be possible.

Conclusion

Texas has always shown great promise as the Energy Capital of the World, and it’s taking that name to new heights with its recent endeavors. By staying committed to using renewable energy sources, Texas encourages sustainability. Hopefully, this goal will be fully realized for the betterment of the country and the world.

Have an impact company that can change the world? Apply for these 4 global prizes

Business

Julie Steinbeck

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May 29, 2024

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Zyed sustainability prize, $3 million USD prize for impact ideas that change the world. — Zayed Sustainability Prize, $3 million USD prize for impact ideas that change the world.

Zayed Sustainability Prize

The Zayed Sustainability Prize is a prestigious international award that recognizes and rewards impactful, innovative, and inspirational sustainability solutions across the globe. Established in 2008 and named in honor of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates, the prize aims to continue his legacy of environmental stewardship and sustainable development. The prize is awarded annually in five categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, and Global High Schools, each designed to address critical challenges facing the world today.

The Health category honors solutions that improve physical, mental, and social well-being, with a focus on projects that can be scaled to benefit large populations. The Food category targets innovations that enhance food security, sustainable agriculture, and nutrition. The Energy category recognizes initiatives that increase access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy. The Water category focuses on projects that offer sustainable water management solutions. Finally, the Global High Schools category encourages and empowers young people to develop sustainable projects within their schools and communities.

Winners of the Zayed Sustainability Prize receive not only financial support but also global recognition, which helps them to scale their projects and maximize their impact. The prize fund totals $3 million, distributed across the categories, with each winner receiving up to $600,000. This financial boost, combined with the prestige of the award, has enabled past laureates to expand their initiatives, foster new partnerships, and influence policy. Through these efforts, the Zayed Sustainability Prize continues to drive significant advancements in sustainability, directly contributing to the global effort to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

THRIVE Global Impact Challenge

The THRIVE Global Impact Challenge is an annual competition aimed at fostering innovative solutions in the agri-food sector to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Organized by SVG Ventures THRIVE, a leading agrifood investment and innovation platform, the challenge seeks to identify and accelerate the development of breakthrough technologies that can significantly enhance the sustainability and resilience of the global food system.

Open to startups from around the world, the THRIVE Global Impact Challenge invites participants to present their cutting-edge technologies and business models in areas such as food security, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience. The competition focuses on five key areas: Sustainable Food Production, Food Quality & Safety, Food Waste Reduction, Smart Agriculture, and Supply Chain Management. Startups are assessed on their potential to drive positive social, economic, and environmental impacts.

Winners of the challenge receive a suite of benefits designed to propel their startups to the next level. These include access to THRIVE’s extensive network of mentors, investors, and industry partners, as well as participation in the THRIVE Accelerator program. This program offers tailored support, including business coaching, strategic guidance, and opportunities for pilot projects and collaborations with leading corporations in the agrifood sector. Additionally, winners receive significant visibility and recognition through THRIVE’s media channels and events.

The THRIVE Global Impact Challenge not only provides a platform for groundbreaking innovations but also fosters a collaborative ecosystem where entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders can work together to solve critical issues in the food system. By supporting innovative startups, the challenge aims to drive transformative changes that contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for agriculture and food production worldwide.

She Loves Tech 2024 Global Competition

She Loves Tech is the world’s largest startup competition focused on women and technology. Founded in 2015, this global platform aims to bridge the gender gap in technology and entrepreneurship by providing female-led and female-impact tech startups with opportunities for investment, mentorship, and global visibility. The She Loves Tech Global Competition is the centerpiece of this initiative, showcasing innovative tech solutions that have the potential to create a positive impact on women and society.

The competition is open to early-stage startups that have a viable product or service and demonstrate significant potential for growth. It specifically targets startups that either have at least one female founder or a product designed to address a problem faced by women. The competition spans multiple rounds, starting with regional rounds held in various countries around the world, culminating in a global final where the top startups compete for the grand prize.

Participants in the She Loves Tech competition benefit from a comprehensive support system. They receive mentorship from leading experts in technology and business, access to She Loves Tech’s extensive network of investors and industry partners, and exposure to media and public relations opportunities. Winners receive cash prizes, investment opportunities, and spots in accelerator programs designed to fast-track their growth and development.

She Loves Tech goes beyond the competition by fostering a global community of female entrepreneurs and innovators. Through its various programs and initiatives, it provides continuous support and resources to help women-led startups thrive. The competition has grown exponentially since its inception, now operating in over 40 countries and partnering with major corporations and investors to drive its mission. By highlighting and supporting female tech entrepreneurs, She Loves Tech aims to create a more inclusive and diverse tech ecosystem, ultimately driving economic growth and innovation.

Global Innovation Fund (GIF)

The Global Innovation Fund (GIF) is an international, nonprofit investment fund that supports the development, rigorous testing, and scaling of innovations aimed at improving the lives of people living on less than $5 a day. Launched in 2014, GIF operates with a mission to accelerate evidence-based solutions that address global development challenges, with a focus on innovations that have the potential to transform the lives of the world’s poorest people.

GIF offers a unique approach to funding by providing flexible financial support through grants, loans, and equity investments. This allows GIF to back a wide range of innovations at different stages of development, from early-stage ideas to proven interventions ready for scaling. The fund prioritizes innovations that are cost-effective, scalable, and have a strong potential for measurable social impact. GIF’s portfolio spans various sectors, including education, health, agriculture, water and sanitation, and energy.

Applicants to the Global Innovation Fund undergo a rigorous selection process where their innovations are evaluated based on their potential impact, evidence of effectiveness, and scalability. Successful applicants receive not only financial support but also technical assistance, monitoring, and evaluation support to ensure their solutions are effectively implemented and scaled. GIF’s funding is designed to be catalytic, providing the necessary resources to bridge the gap between proven solutions and widespread adoption.

The impact of GIF’s investments is significant, as the fund leverages a venture capital-style approach to drive social impact. By focusing on high-impact innovations, GIF aims to achieve sustainable improvements in the quality of life for the world’s poorest populations. The fund’s emphasis on evidence and results ensures that its investments lead to tangible benefits and contribute to the broader goals of poverty reduction and sustainable development. Through its innovative funding model, GIF plays a crucial role in fostering breakthroughs that have the potential to create lasting change on a global scale.

Reefs get a boost from Zeroe in the UAE

Julie Steinbeck

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May 29, 2024

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Reeframe is an artificial reef project in the UAE

Zeroe, a UAE-based comprehensive carbon management company, will sponsor an artificial coral reef through Project Reefframe project, a pioneering initiative aimed at restoring and preserving coral ecosystems in the UAE. This sponsorship underscores Zeroe’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its recognition of the critical role oceans play in mitigating climate change.

As the United Nations highlights in Sustainable Development Goal 14, oceans are essential for life on Earth. They produce 50% of the oxygen we breathe, absorb 25% of carbon dioxide emissions, and capture 90% of excess heat generated by these emissions. This makes them a vital buffer against the impacts of climate change.

However, oceans face unchartered threats from pollution, plastic waste, and rising temperatures. Coral reefs are experiencing alarming rates of degradation, impacting biodiversity and coastal communities. The United Arab Emirates is building artificial islands and industry that need to consider the future of its oceans.

Project Reeframe, led by Freestyle Divers, is a collaborative effort to rescue and restore coral reefs in the UAE. By creating artificial reefs and transplanting rescued coral fragments, the project aims to create thriving marine ecosystems that can withstand the challenges of climate change.

Darryl Owen, Owner and CEO of Freestyle Divers and Project Reeframe said, “This sponsorship will enable us to expand our efforts in rescuing and restoring coral reefs, ensuring their survival for future generations. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for our oceans and the communities that depend on them.”

Zeroe’s sponsorship of an artificial reef through Project Reeframe demonstrates the company’s dedication to environmental conservation. This initiative aligns with Zeroe’s broader sustainability goals and its belief in the power of technology, collaboration, and innovative thinking to drive positive change.

“Climate change is a complex problem that requires a systemic solution made up of many smaller efforts at all levels, simultaneously. We are proud to contribute to a project that is making a real difference in preserving these invaluable ecosystems,” said Lauren Haworth, Head of Marketing & Partnerships at Zeroe said.

Zeroe is a carbon management platform based in the UAE, which gives companies a way to measure, manage, and reduce their carbon footprint. By leveraging advanced artificial intelligence and adhering to the GHG Protocol, Zeroe simplifies carbon accounting, ensuring compliance and facilitating sustainable business practices.

Project Reeframe is a pioneering coral reef restoration project based in the UAE, run by Freestyle Divers. By creating artificial reefs and transplanting rescued coral fragments, Project Reeframe aims to restore damaged reefs, promote biodiversity, and enhance the resilience of marine ecosystems.

Saudi, IBM collaborate to develop AI model for Arabic dialects using Watson

Technology

Karin Kloosterman

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May 29, 2024

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Watson IBM — IBM’s Watson learns Arabic and integrates it into AI

A generative AI program is being developed through a collaboration between Saudi Arabia and IBM, focusing on multiple Arabic dialects. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has announced that their Arabic large language model ALLaM, will be integrated into IBM’s AI and data platform, Watsonx.

Watsonx is widely used by companies for creating editorial content, developing chatbots, and writing programming code. This includes applications like scripting for video games and customer service chatbots.

Watson research has been pioneered in IBM Israel. Researchers David Carmel and Dafna Sheinwald from IBM Israel played a key role in building Watson, the supercomputer that played Jeopardy in 2011 – and won. Watson won USD 77,147, which was donated to various charities, besting Ken Jennings’s USD 24,000 and Brad Rutter’s USD 21,600.

This research will be applied to better understand Arabic language models. ALLaM stands out for its ability to retrieve and generate information in both audio and text formats across various Arabic dialects, a challenge that has long puzzled developers.

This collaboration is expected to drive further technological advancements, according to Esam Alwagait, director of SDAIA.

The development of ALLaM could lead to a surge in Arabic GPT text generators, similar to Google’s Gemini, X’s Grok, and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Trained on hundreds of millions of articles in both Arabic and English, ALLaM aims to overcome the traditional challenges of working with Arabic dialects.

Egypt developing green methanol fueling stations with Abu Dhabi’s AD Ports

Karin Kloosterman

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May 29, 2024

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Maersk danish company uses green methanol in its fleet of ships — Maersk, a Danish shipping company uses green methanol in its fleet of ships

AD Ports Group, the operator of industrial cities and free zones in Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates is spearheading a consortium to develop a green methanol plant in Egypt.

Green methanol, made from biomass such as plant waste, is a synthetic fuel produced renewably and without polluting emissions (in theory), and can be produced from green hydrogen. This chemical compound can be used as a low-carbon liquid fuel and is a promising alternative to fossil fuels in areas where decarbonisation is a major challenge.

Green, Blue and Grey Methanol – what’s the difference in fuel types?

Green methanol (or bio-methanol) may be produced via biological pathways (anaerobic digestion), thermo-chemical pathways (gasification) or electrofuel pathways (power to gas). Blue methanol is made using blue hydrogen in combination with carbon capture technology. Grey methanol is produced using natural gas.

The new Egyptian facility will aim to supply low-carbon fuel for maritime transport, presenting an opportunity to establish clean alternative energy storage solutions globally.The addition of a facility in this area will provide fueling solutions for those mainliners who have ordered green methanol-powered vessels.

One challenge with Egypt and the Suez Canal, currently, is keeping terrorists such as the Yemenite Houthis terror group from sabotaging its shipping line from the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea to the Mediterranean. Working with the moderate UAE will help broker peace in the region. The UAE even has a Green Sheikh who was a regular contributor to Green Prophet over the years.

Green Sheikh, by Green Prophet’s Tafline Laylin

According to Abu Dhabi’s AD Ports they anticipate more than 100 methanol-fuelled ships will be in service in the next 2 years by 2026, representing around a million tonnes of additional methanol demand.

According to Drewry and Clarksons, a maritime research group, the methanol-fuelled vessel fleet will grow from 2 per cent to 14 per cent of the global fleet based on orders already placed.

“This initiative not only aligns with the UAE’s decarbonisation goals but also accelerates the energy transition in shipping, positioning us at the forefront of the green hydrogen revolution and enabling us to contribute to global environmental stewardship and economic diversification,” said Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, CEO – Maritime & Shipping Cluster, AD Ports Group.

Developing carbon-friendly projects in other nations can earn countries carbon credits through UN mechanisms.

The group has signed a preliminary agreement with Egyptian container shipping line Transmar and Orascom Construction for the project, which will include storage and export facilities for the synthetic fuel.

methanol green hydrogen — Bloomberg’s numbers for green ethanol ships on order

Green methanol, a low-carbon synthetic fuel, can be produced from biomass or through carbon capture and green hydrogen. It offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, especially in sectors like chemicals and plastics where decarbonization is challenging.

This fuel is also more cost-effective to store and transport, utilizing existing infrastructure for regular fossil fuels.

Maersk and Hapag Lloyd are already integrating such green methanol ships into their fleets. Evergreen, Cosco, CMA CGM and HMM have ships on order, according to Bloomberg.

Next EU Parliament must crack down on lobbying from ecologically-toxic industries

Business

Isabella Hannah

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May 28, 2024

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Next EU Parliament must crack down on lobbying from ecologically-toxic industries

children are exposed to asbestos in make-up — There could be toxins like asbestos in your makeup

With policymakers in Brussels steadily eroding the EU Green Deal ahead of next month’s European elections, governments, NGOs and scientists have joined forces to counter this short-sighted political point-scoring. On 14 May, environment ministers from 11 member states issued a joint letter calling for the reversal of obstructionist countries’ sudden opposition to the Natural Restoration Law’s final green light.

This initiative notably arrived a day after 140 environmental NGOs published an open letter lambasting the EU’s green backtracking, particularly fueled by the likes of Hungary, Poland and Slovakia.

Lamenting how Europe’s “basic environmental standards” are being scrapped “to appease industry lobbyists,” the letter’s signatories highlight the host of other diluted, blocked or outright abandoned Green Deal files “despite the growing evidence of looming ecological collapse.”

With calls for a European “right to a healthy environment” re-emerging in May, achieving this noble ambition will require a broad coalition of incoming MEPs to crack down on ecologically-destructive industries’ excessive lobbying influence while fending off a potential far-right, anti-green lurch.

Big Tobacco ‘poisoning the planet’

In this climate, the tobacco industry remains one of Europe’s worst offenders. Take the conflict of interest scandal involving Jan Hoffman, a former DG SANTE official who had worked on issues of tobacco traceability right before jumping to Dentsu Tracking, the tobacco industry-linked firm controversially awarded the contract to run the EU’s tobacco track and trace system.

Big Tobacco continues to aggressively lobby EU policymakers to delay effective, citizen-first policies, such as the recommendation on smoke-free environments to tighten rules on tobacco usage in public places as well as the long-awaited revisions of the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) and Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD). BAT has notably made clear its intention to interfere with the latter, blatantly disregarding the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)’s Article 5.3 lobbying rules as well as its ITP Protocol’s Article 8 stipulations on industry-independent track and trace.

This lobbying-induced regulatory vacuum enables the industry to continue freely polluting and maximising profits at the expense of Europe’s social and environmental well-being – a reality highlighted by the European Parliament’s Working Group on Tobacco in its new White Paper. The fruit of a multi-sector collaboration including MEP Pierre Larrouturou, NGO coalition the SmokeFree Partnership and WHO FCTC Program Director Kelvin Khow, the White Paper cites a landmark WHO report revealing how the tobacco industry is “poisoning our planet.”

Beyond causing over 8 million preventable deaths annually, Khow’s contribution spotlights how Big Tobacco also destroys 600 million trees, razes 200,000 hectares of land and guzzles over 20 billion tonnes of water. Tobacco production accounts for 5% of global deforestation and over 80 million tonnes of annual CO2 while cigarettes remain “the most littered item on the planet,” with roughly 4.5 trillion highly-toxic filters polluting the world’s oceans, beaches, parks and soils every year.

Moving forward, the MEP-led White Paper rightly advocates for the TTD-TPD revision process to address this scourge. According to its authors, WHO FCTC-aligned measures such as banning cigarette filters, imposing “polluter pays” clean-up obligations and prohibiting tobacco companies from promoting greenwashed ‘ESG’ credentials will be crucial in tackling Big Tobacco’s environmental carnage while countering its lobbying influence.

‘Big Toxics’ dissolving Green Deal

A leading White Paper contributor, the Corporate Europe Observatory (CEO) has rightly questioned why the “public interest firewall…on public health matters,” applied to the tobacco lobby – in theory if not in practice – has not been extended to Europe’s chemicals industry. Dubbed the ‘Big Toxics,’ the industry’s four largest chemicals companies and three EU trade associations are amongst the biggest spenders in Brussels, outspending even Big Tech according to the CEO’s LobbyFacts initiative.

This excessive influence has delayed the REACH regulation reform aimed at enhancing public health and environmental protection against toxic chemicals. Aggressively opposing REACH from its inception using dubious research, countless loophole requests among a wider arsenal of influence, the Big Toxics continue to use fearmongering narratives to impede its much-needed revision.

While the Commission resisted the industry’s initial assault on the Green Deal’s chemicals pillar, the chemicals lobby has capitalised on mounting political aversion towards green regulations. With key Green Deal files falling off the agenda, Big Toxics are now targeting the EU proposal to ban polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – so-called ‘forever chemicals.

According to the CEO, PFAS’s devasting impact in Europe includes an estimated €52-84 billion in annual health costs – likely contributing to cancer and fertility issues – and €10-20 billion in environmental restoration costs in addition to the “unquantifiable damage and suffering” these toxic chemicals generate. With the Big Toxics lobby shielding its companies from responsibility for this ecological and social plague, EU policymakers must take a strong stand.

Carmakers driving green goals into wall

old car sent to Africa — Old cars are sent to Africa to be upcycled there. But should old gas guzzlers be given life in other countries with less environmental law?

As with the Big Toxics, Europe’s automotive industry has seized on the changing political winds to dilute the Green Deal’s ambition. Led by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the industry’s lobbying machine went into overdrive ahead of the vote on the Euro 7 regulation setting limits on highly-polluting car emissions like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulphur dioxide (SO2). According to environmental NGOs, these efforts helped to secure a regulatory freeze for exhaust pollution, with Transport & Environment’s Lucien Mathieu claiming that the car lobby’s victory proves that it is ”back in control.”

Ahead of the watered-down Euro 7 deal finalised by MEPs and member-state delegates last December, experts from the Consortium for Ultra-low Vehicle Emissions (CLOVE) warned that its lack of progress on emissions rules could generate €100 billion in health and environmental costs by 2050 due to excessive nitrogen dioxide (NO2) pollution from combustion engines. Responsible for 49,000 premature EU deaths every year, NO2 also indirectly fuels the formation of Particulate Matter (PM), which causes a further 240,000 excess annual deaths.

As environmental consultancy CE Delft has highlighted, these premature deaths could be slashed in half if cars’ road emissions matched the misleading levels reported in laboratory testing. The automotive industry continues to exploit this regulatory loophole on lab versus real-world emissions testing, with lobbyists using a series of undeclared Commission meetings to maintain a status quo subjecting European citizens to lethal, avoidable emissions.

Defending environmental rights

Building on MEPs’ recent ban of Amazon lobbyists over their unwillingness to transparently engage with policymakers concerning labour rights and well-being issues, the next Parliament should consider red-carding the bloc’s most toxic and high-spending industry lobbies. Doing so would send a powerful message that Europe places its citizens above corporate interests while helping create the conditions for a long-overdue right to a healthy environment in Europe.

With a new crop of young, ambitious environmental activists set be elected to the Parliament and civil society calls mounting for the Council of Europe to enshrine environmental health into the continent’s human rights system, a window of opportunity is opening for European institutions to take decisive action. Working in close collaboration with NGOs and researchers, MEPs must launch a sweeping counteroffensive against the Green Deal’s betrayal and the noxious lobbying influence at its core.

Raw honey – unpasteurized health benefits

Food

Julie Steinbeck

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May 28, 2024

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Raw honey – unpasteurized health benefits

Imagine this: bees, our tiny, tireless pollinators, dancing from flower to flower, collecting nectar like nature’s little alchemists. Raw honey is the magical result of their hard work – unfiltered, unprocessed, and unpasteurized. It’s the purest form of honey you can find, brimming with all the natural goodness that the bees and blooms have to offer.

Nature’s Multivitamin

Forget those synthetic multivitamins in your medicine cabinet. Raw honey is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. Packed with antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients, it’s like a sweet gift from the heavens. Vitamin C? Check. Calcium? Check. Iron, magnesium, and potassium? Check, check, and check! It’s like Mother Nature decided to give us a health boost wrapped in sweetness.

Got the sniffles? Feeling under the weather? Raw honey is your sticky, sweet solution. Its antimicrobial properties are the stuff of legends. It can help soothe a sore throat, combat pesky coughs, and even fend off those nasty bacteria. Next time you’re feeling blah, skip the over-the-counter meds and go straight for the honey jar. Your immune system will thank you.

Gut Health Guardian

Take the honey test, is your honey pure. Your test is here.

Your gut – that complex, enigmatic universe within – needs a guardian, and raw honey is up for the task. It’s a natural prebiotic, meaning it helps nurture the good bacteria in your gut. Happy gut, happy life, right? So, swirl some raw honey into your yogurt, drizzle it over your granola, or just sneak a spoonful straight from the jar.

Need a pick-me-up without the crash? Raw honey is your natural energy booster. Those natural sugars provide an instant, sustained energy hit without the dreaded sugar crash. Whether you’re scaling a mountain, hitting the gym, or just trying to survive a Monday, a spoonful of raw honey is like a jolt of pure, unadulterated vitality.

Sweet Skin Savior

Here’s a little beauty secret from the bee kingdom: raw honey is a skincare superstar. Its antibacterial properties make it a champion for acne-prone skin, while its natural humectants keep your skin hydrated and glowing. Dab it on as a spot treatment, mix it into your DIY face masks, or just spread it on and let the magic happen. Cleopatra would be proud.

And let’s not forget the planet. Supporting raw honey means supporting sustainable beekeeping practices. Bees are crucial pollinators, essential for our food supply and biodiversity. By choosing raw honey, you’re helping to protect these tiny warriors and the environment. Sweet, sustainable synergy – it’s a win-win!

Related read: These vegans save honeybees

Can you eat honeycomb?

Honeycomb is a treasure trove of nutrients. Unlike processed honey, honeycomb retains all the raw goodness, including vitamins B and C, antioxidants, and vital enzymes. The beeswax in the honeycomb is rich in long-chain fatty acids and alcohols, which can lower cholesterol levels and boost liver health. It’s like getting the full package deal: the honey and the honeycomb, a dynamic duo of nutrition.

Natural Allergy Relief

Suffering from seasonal allergies? Honeycomb might just be your new best friend. Chewing on honeycomb can help desensitize your body to local pollen. This natural process, akin to a sweet vaccination, gradually builds your immunity against those pesky allergens. It’s a delicious way to find relief and enjoy the changing seasons without the sniffles.

Digestive Dynamo

Move over, fiber supplements! Honeycomb, with its natural beeswax, is a fantastic aid for digestion. It acts as a mild laxative, promoting regular bowel movements and maintaining a healthy gut. The enzymes present in the honey help break down complex sugars and starches, making digestion smoother and more efficient. Your digestive system will thank you for this sweet intervention.

Oral Health Hero

Here’s a sticky secret: chewing honeycomb is great for your teeth. The beeswax acts like a natural chewing gum, stimulating saliva production and helping to clean teeth. Saliva is your mouth’s first line of defense against bacteria and tooth decay. Plus, the antimicrobial properties of honey keep your mouth fresh and free from harmful bacteria. It’s a sweet way to maintain your oral hygiene.

Sustainable Sweetness

By enjoying honeycomb, you’re also supporting sustainable beekeeping. Responsible beekeepers harvest honeycomb in a way that ensures the health and survival of the bee colonies. This means you can indulge in this natural delight knowing you’re contributing to the well-being of our planet’s crucial pollinators.

Culinary Creativity

Let’s not forget the culinary magic of honeycomb. Its unique texture and flavor make it a star ingredient in gourmet dishes. Spread it on warm toast, crumble it over cheese, or let it melt into your tea. The possibilities are endless, and every bite is an explosion of natural sweetness and texture.

In essence, honeycomb is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a healthful, versatile, and sustainable delight. So, next time you see that golden hexagonal treasure, don’t just admire it – eat it! Your body, your taste buds, and the bees will thank you.

The Verdict

So there you have it, folks. Raw honey and honeycomb isn’t just a sweet treat; it’s a versatile, powerful, and sustainable superfood. From boosting your immune system to pampering your skin and supporting our precious pollinators, raw honey is a golden gift from nature that deserves a spot in your pantry and your heart.

Grab a jar, savor its sweet symphony, and let raw honey work its magic. Your body, your taste buds, and the planet will thank you.

Want some money to spare? Here are 7 side hustle ideas to try

Good Job

Bhok Thompson

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May 28, 2024

0

starting a podcast on climate change — A podcast on raising bees or climate change might help earn you a side hustle

The discussion about having a sustainable side hustle besides your principal source of income can be controversial. It’s not greedy to try and stand behind something you love to do and earn an income at the same time.

Well, having a side hustle doesn’t have to equal overworking because, after all, you’re supposed to invest much less than for a real job, which is why most part-time jobs enter this category. However, side hustles can also mean working one or two hours per day from the comfort of your own home with sites such as Magic Eden, even if the pay isn’t that significant. Using that money to add to your savings or making small payments is still a helpful way to withstand inflation and worldwide crises, so why not do it?

So, here are some ideas to choose from in accordance with your current schedule and abilities.

Start small with cryptocurrencies

Investing in cryptocurrencies can be done anywhere, and the first amounts you invest can be as small as you can afford. It’s important to be wary of market volatility and manipulation before beginning as a crypto investor, but if you aim for a long-term strategy, you can surely make some money in a few years with the right mindset.

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are popular and suitable choices, but there are many other altcoins to add to your portfolio. For more diversification, it’s best to approach DeFi applications, Bitcoin Ordinals and Ethereum NFTs for maximum market exposure and safety. Check that your bank is okay working with crypto.

Deliver groceries to your neighbors

If you want to do something less stressful, you can offer your delivery services to your neighbors, like a taskrabbit, especially if you live in an area with many older people. You will not only make some pocket money but will also win people’s trust, making you a good option for many other small jobs around someone’s house.

If you want to elevate this side hustle, you can become an official food delivery employee on apps like Uber Eats, for example, where people enter their needed food and products, and you deliver everything to their door. While this can be more tiring, it’s a more stable source of income.

Do some affiliate marketing on your blog

beauty, cosmetics, David Suzuki Foundation, make up, chemicals, cancer, carcinogens, hormone disruptors — Sustainable beauty products

If you love to write and have a blog or have wanted one for a long time, know that you can build your website in a way that inspires trust, attracting potential customers who want you to promote their products. In this case, it’s best to choose a niche and focus on everything related to ecologically conscious products like solar energy, water purifiers, and sustainable cosmetics that do no harm.

Then, write as many blogs as you can for a while and try making them valuable to have a solid content base. After that, you can start promoting your blog on social media and groups that are looking for blogs with a certain audience number. You may need to make some unpaid affiliate programs for a while, but this way, you can become known in the industry.

Translate or transcribe texts

Another writing-related job is becoming a translator for smaller projects, such as poems or school assignments. While you can do this if you’ve already learned a language, it can encourage you to improve it or study a new one to expand your area of knowledge.

On the other hand, when you’re a transcriber, you usually listen to audio files and type what you hear, whether they’re videos or audio notes. There are many freelance sites where you can find such jobs, where you can create an account and prove your abilities for future potential clients to see.

Produce your own podcast

Canoe on the great lakes — How about a podcast on outdoor adventures

If you like talking and are knowledgeable in numerous areas, having a podcast is the best thing to do to make some money and spend more time doing what you want. Again, choosing a niche subject to approach in most of your podcasts would be best to better target your preferred audience, but you should be open to new ideas to discuss.

Some people access social media sites like Reddit or Twitter to discuss social matters and analyze people’s opinions in regard to hot topics on the internet, so this could help get rid of “writer’s block” since you may need to write a script for the podcast.

Of course you’ll have to get the right gear so make sure to find ways to finance any upgrades that will help improve your recording quality. Individuals living on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula often manage to get cash fast in Singapore by taking out a quick loan that covers essential equipment without delaying their creative plans. This allows new podcasters to keep building momentum while maintaining a professional sound. With the right setup in place, it becomes much easier to focus on producing meaningful content.

Teach others what you know

Some people have the gift of teaching, but becoming a professor can be quite difficult. Instead, you can offer online tutoring classes to kids and students on one of the subjects you mastered best. While the revenue might not be that significant, you can at least build a customer base and offer more frequent tutoring classes during the week. Some people make a good living out of coaching.

You can also take advantage of platforms like Udemy, which allow you to create your own course and personalize your coaching abilities. These platforms require you to pay a certain monthly fee or retain a percentage of your teaching prices, but they offer more exposure to customers.

Publish a book on your own

Writing books has become fairly easy as many students create endless fanfics with their favorite characters or celebrities that readers love. Self-publishing is also pretty easy, especially if you do it digitally since there are low upfront costs.

You can write a book on any subject you like (choose something about our dear planet) and upload it to a book sales platform where you’re charged fees only when the book is printed and shipped, and the bookseller platform will handle that. This only takes some time to perfect your writing skills and cover editing abilities.

Final considerations

Most people are doing side hustles as a way to make some more money, whether they need it for hobbies, clothes, or to boost their savings account. Luckily, there are many ways in which you can earn some money while working from home or doing small tasks for other people, so you only need to find what’s fit for your schedule and doesn’t take the life out of you.

China is building nuclear power plants in Turkey

Energy

Karin Kloosterman

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May 28, 2024

0

A facade of shimmering steel panels envelops this control centre that Istanbul studio Bilgin Architects has created in the plains of Karapinar, Turkey, for one of Europe's largest solar farms. Named Central Control Building, it is designed by Bilgin Architects to act as a centralised location from which to monitor and control the expansive field of 3.2 million solar panels. — A solar energy installation in Turkey. Environmentalists want to see more of this and less of nuclear.

“While countries like Germany have decommissioned the last of their nuclear reactors Communist and autocratic regimes are just getting started.”

As Turkey houses Hamas and gives up its hope of joining the European Union it ramps up its collaborations on energy with Russia on nuclear power plants, and now in the news –– with China. Ankara and Beijing said they will finalize a deal on a new nuclear power plant in Turkey “in a few months,” says Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar who told a Chinese broadcaster during his visit to the country.

While countries like Germany have decommissioned the last of their nuclear reactors Communist and autocratic regimes are just getting started.

Collaboration between Turkey and China in nuclear energy started in 2016, and since then negotiations have taken place to build nuclear reactors in Turkey, one of which will be located in the Thrace region in the northwest of the country. Local turks have tried to stop the developments but to no avail.

Bayraktar said the “landmark project” will be finalized with the unknown company and China’s National Energy Administration (NEA).

Nuclear energy plays an important role in reaching Turkey’s 2053 net zero emission target, according to Turkey. To this end, the country is planning to build nuclear power plants in two other locations after the first plant at Akkuyu, which is under construction in the Mediterranean province of Mersin.

Bayraktar considers three major issues that the country faces in tackling energy markets: security of supply, excessive import dependency, and climate change challenges.

A recent study showed how most young people would accept a higher rate of power if it were supplied by renewable energy. Nuclear energy is not a renewable energy. It is dangerous energy for people and planet.

He explained that security of supply is essential to meet the growing demand in the country, and much investment is welcomed in various sections of the energy supply chain to cope with this demand growth.

Turkey currently imports almost 70% of its primary energy resources, and the country’s energy policy is actively addressing this issue by promoting local resources, particularly renewables.

Bayraktar said that renewables are the key to addressing all of these issues, along with the addition of nuclear power to the energy mix. Ecological organizations like Greenpeace do not consider nuclear energy to be a renewable energy source.

Does climate change cause more turbulance?

Nature

Karin Kloosterman

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May 28, 2024

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Does climate change cause more turbulance?

It’s the second event in a week: severe turbulence has hit a Qatar Airways plane from from Doha, Qatar to London. Eight people people were taken to hospital in Dublin, where the plane landed.

The Dublin airport said six passengers and six crew members had reported injuries during the incident on the flight while it was airborne over Turkey. The event happened five days after a British man died of a suspected heart attack and dozens of people were injured when a Singapore Airlines flight from London encountered severe turbulence. Some authorities say that in-air turbulence will be more and more common, an effect of climate change.

Read Also: Is sex on an airplane legal?

falcons plane saudi arabia — Falcons on a plane in Saudi Arabia

Climate change is significantly impacting aviation, as we see in recent events, particularly by increasing the frequency and intensity of turbulence.

Turbulence, the irregular motion of air caused by various atmospheric conditions, poses a risk to passenger safety and comfort, as well as operational costs for airlines. The primary link between climate change and turbulence lies in the warming of the atmosphere and the resultant alterations in wind patterns.

One major factor is the increased atmospheric temperatures due to climate change, which enhances the energy available in the atmosphere. This heightened energy can intensify the jet stream—a fast-flowing air current in the upper atmosphere that influences weather patterns and flight routes. As the jet stream becomes stronger and more erratic, the boundary between different air masses becomes more turbulent, leading to a higher incidence of clear-air turbulence (CAT). CAT occurs in clear skies and is particularly dangerous because it is difficult to predict and detect.

Studies indicate that turbulence could become two to three times more common by the middle of the 21st century if current climate trends continue. This increase is expected across various flight levels and global regions, but especially over the North Atlantic, a heavily trafficked air corridor between North America and Europe.

The mechanism driving this change involves the alteration of vertical and horizontal temperature gradients, which destabilize the atmosphere.

Climate change influences weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe storms. These storms contribute to convective turbulence, which forms within storm clouds and can be extremely severe. As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere can hold more moisture, intensifying storm systems and their associated turbulence.

Russia builds first nuclear reactor in Asia: expect no outcry

Energy

Karin Kloosterman

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May 28, 2024

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Russia is building Uzbekistan nuclear power plants near the border with Kazakhstan on the shores of Lake Tuzkan and near the Shardara reservoir — a source of drinking water for a city nearby.

Last year marked an end of an era for Germany which decommissioned its last nuclear reactor. Not long after, Turkey announced its first Russian nuclear power plant going online.

Countries like Canada have enjoyed almost “endless” nuclear power going to the electricity grid, along with hydro-electric power and natural gas. Hydro-electric power in Canada is so ubiquitous that Canadians typically say hydro instead of electricity.

But nuclear has its risks and most environmentalists are pushing for renewables from solar energy, wind, geothermal over nuclear which continues to pose threats from accidents, and emit radiation thousands of years after the nuclear rods are spent.

Despite the World Bank and Masdar’s push with financing mechanisms from Canada to advance solar energy in Uzbekistan, Russia – hoping to get a strong foothold in the once Communist and now autocratically-run nation has declared that it will build a nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan.

It will be the first such project in post-Soviet Central Asia, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said on Monday at a meeting with visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The nuclear deal aims to showcase Russia’s ability to export for energy during western sanctions.

Mirziyoyev said Tashkent will buy more oil and gas from Russia and described Putin’s visit as “historic”.

“It heralds the beginning of a new age in the comprehensive strategic partnership and alliance relations between our countries,” he said.

Putin also called Tashkent Moscow’s “strategic partner and reliable ally”.

In a report published by the Kremlin, the Russian state nuclear firm Rosatom will build up to six nuclear reactors with a capacity of 55 megawatts each in Uzbekistan. Russia currently dominates the nuclear supply chain market.

According to the Climate Action Network, Uzbekistan plans to build a nuclear power plant 40 km from the border with Kazakhstan and the country’s most populous Turkestan region.

Construction is planned in the Jizzakh region on the shores of Lake Tuzkan. Next to it, just a few tens of kilometers away, is the Shardara reservoir — a source of drinking water for the whole city, as well as a reservoir of strategic importance, located on the transboundary Syr Darya River, pictured below by NASA.

Local activists constantly talk about the fact that the area is seismically active. Despite this, the authorities declare that there are no risks of building and operating a nuclear power plant, referring to the results of the studies.

Greenpeace volunteers protest by performing die-ins in the streets of Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Mersin against the start of the construction of the Akkuyu Nuclear Plant. — Greenpeace activists hit the streets of Bangkok with a visually stunning march and laid down the challenge to South East Asias governments to set binding renewable energy and energy efficiency targets, and explore CO2 emission reduction technologies.

Russia experienced the worst possible effects from nuclear energy: the Chernobyl disaster (1986) which caused serious radiation sickness and contamination. Between 50 and 185 million curies of radionuclides escaped into the atmosphere. Millions of acres of forest and farmland were contaminated, livestock was born deformed, and humans suffered long-term negative health effects.

Serious nuclear power plant accidents also include the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan (2011), the Three Mile Island accident in the US (1979), and the SL-1 accident in the US (1961).

According to Greenpeace, nuclear energy has no place in a safe, clean, sustainable future: “Nuclear energy is both expensive and dangerous, and just because nuclear pollution is invisible doesn’t mean it’s clean. Renewable energy is better for the environment, the economy, and doesn’t come with the risk of a nuclear meltdown.”

Greenpeace held die-ins in Turkey in 2015 to oppose nuclear energy, with the effects only prolonging the development, not stopping it.

Citizens in Uzbekistan do not enjoy freedom of speech so we can expect there to be no dissent against nuclear energy. Interesting to see how Syr Dayra River people will react.

The World Bank and Abu Dhabi’s Masdar build 250 MW solar plant in Uzbekistan

Nature

Karin Kloosterman

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May 28, 2024

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The World Bank and Abu Dhabi’s Masdar build 250 MW solar plant in Uzbekistan

The World Bank, Abu Dhabi’s Masdar, and the Government of Uzbekistan have signed a financial package to fund a 250-megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic plant with a 63-MW battery energy storage system for commercial scale battery storage. The project aims to expand clean and reliable electricity access to approximately 75,000 households.

The project marks Central Asia’s first renewable energy initiative with an integrated BESS battery component. Introducing the innovative BESS component will improve the efficiency and flexibility of the power system, providing greater security of supply and helping to mitigate the intermittency of renewable generation.

The financing package includes up to $53 million loan from IFC and loans for up to $106 million from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The financing will support the construction and operation of the new plant. IFC will also provide interest rate swaps for the entire debt amount, allowing the project to effectively manage interest rate risks.

The World Bank is providing a guarantee of up to $12 million to support the government’s payment obligations under the project. The investment package also includes blended finance support in the form of concessional senior loans of $20 million each from the Canada-IFC Blended Climate Finance Program and ADB-managed Leading Asia’s Private Sector Infrastructure Fund (LEAP).

watergen water from think air — Watergen, an Israeli company generates water from air in Bukhara

The solar power plant, which will be constructed in the Alat district of the Bukhara region, is projected to cut over 327,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually by generating more than 585 gigawatt hours of renewable energy per year.

To address the increasing demand for energy in Uzbekistan’s economy and among its citizens, the government aims to scale up renewable energy generation by up to 25 GW, or 40 percent of the country’s overall electricity consumption, by 2030. These efforts support the country’s clean energy transition and decarbonization, as well as its economic growth. In this context, the World Bank Group is helping Uzbekistan develop 2,000 MW of solar and 500 MW of wind energy by attracting private sector investments.

The solar power plant project will be implemented through a project company Nur Bukhara Solar PV LLC FE owned by Masdar, which is responsible for developing, financing, building, owning, operating, and maintaining the solar plant and BESS.

The project company is committed to selling electricity to the state-owned National Electric Grid of Uzbekistan JSC under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement for the project, including a 10-year operating term for the BESS component, signed by these two entities.

The World Bank and IFC have been providing guarantees, financing, advisory, and technical assistance support to the government for launching several plants, including a 100MW solar power plant in the Navoi region (operational since 2021), 440MW solar power plants in Samarkand and Jizzakh regions (under construction), and the first 500-MW wind power plant in the Navoi region. They have recently offered Turkey an incredible $1 billion in incentives despite Turkey housing Hamas terrorists.

With the new project to be implemented in Bukhara region, the renewable energy generation capacity supported by the World Bank Group’s operations will increase to about 1.3 gigawatts.

About the Canada-IFC Blended Climate Finance Program

The Canada-IFC Blended Climate Finance Program aims to mobilize private capital for global climate action and reflects Canada’s commitment under the 2015 Paris Agreement to support developing countries in their transition to sustainable and resilient low-carbon economies. In 2021, Canada doubled its international climate finance commitment to $5.3 billion over the next five years.

About Masdar

Established in 2006, Masdar based in the United Arab Emirates has developed and partnered in projects in over 40 countries, helping them to achieve their clean energy objectives and advance sustainable development. Masdar is jointly owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and under this ownership, the company is targeting a renewable energy portfolio capacity of at least 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2030. The company built a model zero-energy city called Masdar City which was a failed experiment.

About Bukhara

Bukhara was an important region for Diaspora Jews. Following the Soviet capture of Bukhara and the creation of the Soviet Social Republics of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, synagogues were destroyed or closed down, and were replaced by Soviet institutions. Consequently many Bukharan Jews fled to the West. Many live in Israel today.

Turkish youth say they will pay 10% more for renewables

Julie Steinbeck

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May 28, 2024

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It’s easy to put your mouth on your money before you start your career, yet Turkey has captured the sentiment of youth in a new study that find Turkish youth will pay 10% more on renewable energy.

The study involved participants with an average age of 24, comprising 45% male and 55% female. Most participants (74 %) were associate degree and undergraduate students, followed by graduate students (15 %) and doctoral students (11 %).

The study published in Energy for Sustainable Development found a positive result – that youth are willing to pay more for renewable energy, and this will influence future decisions about budgeting and developing renewable energy,

The study led by student Furkan Acikgoz was supervised by Prof. Ozlem Yorulmaz of Turkey.

Turkey protestors against nuclear energy.

The researchers write: “Public acceptance of renewable energy will accelerate the transition from energy sources that cause high emissions to environmentally friendly energy sources to combat climate change. For this reason, it is crucial to investigate the adoption intentions of different target audiences.”

They targeted Turkish university students, who are the future decision-makers.

As an emerging economy, Turkey has a chronic current account deficit issue, and energy imports are the primary cause of this imbalance, the researchers point out. For many years, the country’s potential in renewables, especially in solar, hydro, and geothermal energy, remained untapped, leading to extensive debates.

Fossil fuels, including oil, natural gas, and coal made up 81.3 percent of the primary energy supply of Turkey in 2022. The rest is supplied by 31.6 GW of hydroelectric, 25.75 GW of natural gas, 21.3 GW of coal, 11.45 GW of wind, 9.93 GW of solar, 1.7 GW of geothermal, and approximately 2 GW of biomass power plant installed capacity.

Turkey’s support for terror organizations such as Hamas (hosting and treating terror operatives in Turkish hospitals), declared publicly by its leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan make it a risky investment for countries that consider Hamas, ISIS and the the PKK as terror groups. The United States Government reports on thousands of terrorists in Turkey while Turkey declares that it is working to stop terror.

The body odors that make mosquitoes want to bite you

Nature

Karin Kloosterman

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May 27, 2024

0

The body odors that make mosquitoes want to bite you

The mosquitos inside a tennis-court-sized cage didn’t carry the malaria parasite and couldn’t get at the people sleeping in surrounding pods, but could smell them.

Mosquitos know no borders. They can bite you in Canada and Cambodia. In some countries they are a nuisance but in Ethiopia they can be deadly – carrying malaria or zika. And not all people are bit in the same way. An ambitious field trial in Zambia investigated why mosquitoes seem to find some people more appetizing than others. This study may open the way so that new repellant can be made to mask the smell that mosquitos love, protecting children and everyone from annoying and deadly bites.

In the study, researchers invited volunteers into individual sleeping pods that were connected to a giant mosquito enclosure housing the mosquito Anopheles gambiae, which transmit deadly malaria.

Infrared cameras tracked the mozzies’ movements and found they were most attracted to people whose scents were “enriched for a class of molecules called airborne carboxylic acids, and also other compounds that are produced by the bacteria that live on our skin”, says biologist and study co-author Conor McMeniman.

The lead author is Diego Giraldo from Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore.

Miriam Kresh from Green Prophet knows how to make natural bug bite relief

The findings could be used to develop more-effective repellents, he says, “but also potentially turn the mosquito’s sense of smell against them, by engineering synthetic blends to lure mosquitoes into traps for mass control purposes.”

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

Current Trends on Energy Consumption in Texas

Primary sources of energy

Population growth and urbanization

Technological advancements

Environmental policies and regulations

Market trends and consumer behavior

Decentralization and Distributed Energy Resources (DER)

Expansion of Renewable Energy

Development of wind and solar power

Innovations in renewable energy technologies

Investment in renewable infrastructure

Government and private sector initiatives

Trajectory of renewable energy in Texas

Challenges ahead

Opportunities to look out for

Conclusion

Zayed Sustainability Prize

THRIVE Global Impact Challenge

She Loves Tech 2024 Global Competition

Global Innovation Fund (GIF)

Green, Blue and Grey Methanol – what’s the difference in fuel types?

Big Tobacco ‘poisoning the planet’

‘Big Toxics’ dissolving Green Deal

Carmakers driving green goals into wall

Defending environmental rights

Nature’s Multivitamin

Gut Health Guardian

Sweet Skin Savior

Can you eat honeycomb?

Natural Allergy Relief

Digestive Dynamo

Oral Health Hero

Sustainable Sweetness

Culinary Creativity

The Verdict

Start small with cryptocurrencies

Deliver groceries to your neighbors

Do some affiliate marketing on your blog

Translate or transcribe texts

Produce your own podcast

Teach others what you know

Publish a book on your own

Final considerations

“While countries like Germany have decommissioned the last of their nuclear reactors Communist and autocratic regimes are just getting started.”

Russia is building Uzbekistan nuclear power plants near the border with Kazakhstan on the shores of Lake Tuzkan and near the Shardara reservoir — a source of drinking water for a city nearby.

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