Water doesn’t behave the same way twice. It absorbs sound, distorts it, carries it, and sometimes erases it altogether. That instability is where artist Tarek Atoui works. We’ve seen it in Bjork’s live concerts and now Atoui is bringing his installation to the Tate.

This October, Atoui will create the next annual Hyundai Commission for Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall, one of the most demanding spaces in contemporary art. Rather than filling it with volume or spectacle, Atoui is likely to do something quieter — letting sound move through materials. (Our feature and review on In The Dark bears some likeness to this upcoming event.)

Born in Beirut, Lebanon in 1980 and now living in Paris, Atoui has spent years building instruments that don’t sit comfortably in concert halls. Many of them involve water, glass, and ceramics — materials that react to sound instead of simply producing it. Water ripples, bowls hum, glass vibrates at the edge of breaking. Sound becomes something you encounter physically, not something delivered from a stage.

Much of Atoui’s work takes place in low light or near darkness. When the room dims, listening changes. You stop scanning for meaning and start paying attention to sensation: vibration in the floor, resonance in a vessel, a faint shift in air pressure. Sound moves slowly, negotiated through touch, breath, and mechanical movement.

Water, glass, and ceramics aren’t supporting actors here. They carry the whole piece.

Atoui’s instruments are often activated by visitors rather than performers. A hand turns a surface. Breath enters a pipe. A motor stirs liquid in a shallow bowl. Sound emerges unevenly, depending on how gently or insistently the materials are engaged. Nothing is fixed.

This approach is evident in works like Waters’ Witness, shown at Kunsthaus Bregenz in Austria and later at Pirelli Hangar Bicocca in Milan, where sound passed through water-filled vessels and ceramic forms. The experience was less about listening to a composition and more about becoming aware of how sound behaves in matter — how it pools, disperses, and leaves residue. Of course the easiest way to access this kind of natural “art” is just to sit by a lonely brook and listen to Mother Nature herself, without the pomposity.

The Turbine Hall itself is an acoustic body: vast, industrial, difficult to control. Rather than overpowering it, Atoui’s practice suggests a tuning of the space — allowing sound to circulate, settle, and respond to the architecture’s own history as a former power station.

At a time when sound is usually amplified, compressed, and consumed instantly, Atoui’s work insists on slowness. It asks visitors to stay with uncertainty, to notice small changes, to listen with their hands and feet as much as their ears.

There are no instructions. No single vantage point. Just materials doing what they do best when left room to act.

The post Listening to Water: Tarek Atoui’s Next Work for Tate Modern appeared first on Green Prophet.

I was delighted to get invited to a special performance of ‘In The Dark’ this week in London, after seeing the project get birthed and thrive in my home city of Cambridge quite a few years ago.

Dynamic cultural producer Andrea Cockerton has worked within music for many years, and knew that the idea of giving audiences an immersive live musical experience – in darkness – could bring tremendous benefits, and over several iterations, this project is thriving, and has now been brought to London audiences – with the hope it will grow into the projects permanent home.

The Space:

The current venue is St Andrew Church in Holborn, on Chancery Lane, right in the heart of London’s economic district – and as I stepped out of the tube station into the street, the grey gloom of the capital City greeted me, with all the busyness and throng of a Thursday evening at rush hour. I often feel a special thrill at going to an arts event in such a mercantile environment: arts, culture and the imagination so often feel threatened by the push for finance and economic stabilty within this current political climate, in funding the sciences for instance, and this was no exception, particularly as it was in a church in the heart of it all. While inside this very special church, restored and renovated in 1668 by the eminent architect Sir Christopher Wren, outside us office blocks are reaching up high, whereas for many years previously only sky would peer in.

St Andrew’s has vaulting pillars, beautiful golden screens, some sculptures and statues, and uplighting that matches the pillars, alongside oak panelling, all in a straightforward display – a fresh simple and yet deeply spiritual space for prayer, contemplation, and tonight, immersive live sound! The space had been lit with reds, blues, and greens, enhancing the atmosphere greatly.

I took my dear friend, Mick Collins, Norwich-based therapist and writer, who talked in rhapsodic terms about the venue and the whole experience afterwards.

Music:

Transported by the choral and instrumental offerings that popped up across the space, in corners, in front of us, and alongside us. The performance was genuinely breathtaking and profound, and it needed some quiet time to fully digest the experience. Those first moments after the concert had ended were gloriously ineffable. At no stage in the hour was I tempted to lift the eye mask and peek at the scene, though I did wonder if I might have loved this even more were I lying on the floor! I particularly loved hearing male voices starting, and solo female voices, as well as elements of rhythm and percussion leading some of the pieces.

We could hear the voices and instruments travel around the space, and I felt a sharper sense of hearing sounds thrown between instruments, bouncing off each other and responding to the piece. Maybe a sound came from my row of seats, then a singer was in front, and then a chorus of voice rose from the far left. And so forth, punctuated by silences between each of the pieces.

For some of the music, I really felt there was a watery theme (having spent much of last years promoting films and activism engaging with water and rivers), which delighted me, and scanning through the programme we were cleverly handed afterwards, the titles of some of the tracks bear this out. I won’t spoil the surprise and talk about the specifics and the songs that are part of the event as I really want to maintain the joy and surprise of the not knowing, and absolutely want to encourage everyone to go and experience this event if they are able. There was a glory in sitting and having the sounds wash over me, with no knowledge, anticipation, or even expectation of anything specific. Seeing the musicians as we peeled off the provided (very thick and comfortable and available to take home! ) eye masks who clearly were as happy as the audience were, and receptive to our cheers and applause, brought us all into rapt synergy.

All my neurons were buzzing and melting, and after a few thank you’s, hugs, enjoyment of the space and the folk we had shared this with, we melted out of the church, lifted divinely by having been ‘In The Dark’.
The projects publicity says “no phones and no distractions” and absolutely, what a joy that is.

Reflection:

Walking back to the tube, and then the train home, we were both pretty speechless, unable to find words for what we have both witnessed through our audible senses. We thought a bit, sat in quiet reverie, danced with some words, and then decided to reflect overnight and see the next day how we felt. After a deep slumber, all my neutrons moulded back into the shape of me, and we checked in with each other –

Mick: “ at one stage I felt I was inside a prayer – the experience was effervescent on the inside, like champagne bubbles: certain pieces brought this up. A very sacred experience. Afterwards I was left with a sense of oneness, in a true sense of the word. Very light in the body, and my mind had been cleansed – the vibration of the sound and the instrumentation. A beautiful beautiful experience. “

‘In The Dark’ is an exceptional immersive cultural experience like no other. Hearing these musicians perform together, to us and with us, in this unique and held spiritual environment of St Andrew Holborn, is both restful and stirring, joyful and deeply prayerful, beyond words.

::In The Dark

The post In The Dark Review – An Immersive Music Experience in Total Darkness at St Andrew Holborn appeared first on Green Prophet.

After a sold-out London debut in 2024, the acclaimed immersive audio experience “in the dark” returns to the capital in January 2026, with performances scheduled for January 22, 23, 29 and 30 at St Andrew’s Church in Holborn.

The 60-minute performance places 30 musicians around the audience in complete darkness. Audience members wear sleep masks while the musicians perform fully live and acoustically, without amplification, speakers, or a conductor. Sound moves around the space in a choreographed 360-degree journey, allowing listeners to experience music purely through hearing.

A similar concept in dining exists in the Jaffa Port, where diners eat in a blacked out dining hall. There are no masks to wear and servers are already blind. You need to have faith and trust in the people around you.

The concept of listening in the dark, first developed in Cambridge in 2017, has grown into an international phenomenon. Its London season in 2024 received the Offies Assessors Choice award and strong critical and audience response. Since its launch, in the dark has staged more than 60 performances for over 8,000 people in venues across the UK.

Musicians are drawn from leading institutions including the Royal College of Music, Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and West End productions. Each performance is shaped by the natural acoustics of the venue, making every show distinct.

Founder Andrea Cockerton describes the philosophy behind the project: “In a world obsessed with being seen, we’re asking people to disappear for an hour. in the dark is a quiet, sound rebellion. No phones, no spectacle, no distractions… just the rare chance to actually feel music again.”

Related: Supper trains and no-pants day train in London

Cockerton, an award-winning arts entrepreneur, is known for her ethical approach to the arts and has received recognition including the NESTA / Observer New Radicals award and the SheSaidSo Alternative Music Power 100 honour.

While not positioned as a wellness event, in the dark mirrors the way nature restores attention and awareness: by removing visual dominance, the experience encourages deep listening, stillness, and presence — the same mental state many people seek in forests, deserts, or by the sea.

The absence of spectacle becomes the point. Each seat offers a different sound perspective. Each listener becomes an active participant in shaping their own experience.

Often described as the “Cirque du Soleil of the senses,” in the dark is now planning future performances across the UK, Europe, Australia and North America.

Tickets for the January performances at St Andrew’s Church, Holborn are now on sale.

::In The Dark

The post In the dark returns to London in 2026 with immersive sound experience in total darkness appeared first on Green Prophet.

In an industry notorious for its environmental footprint, demi-couture brand Safiyaa stands as a compelling counterexample. Founded by Daniela Karnuts in 2011, the London-based label has quietly revolutionized luxury fashion not just through its timeless designs, but through a business model that inherently addresses fashion’s sustainability crisis. While the industry produces an estimated 92 million tons of textile waste annually and accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions, Safiyaa’s approach offers a radical alternative—one where waste is eliminated before it begins.

“The most sustainable garment is the one you keep wearing,” Karnuts has noted, cutting through the greenwashing that often characterizes fashion’s environmental messaging. This simple observation forms the foundation of Safiyaa’s sustainability ethos, where longevity isn’t just a marketing angle but a core design principle. As consumers increasingly reject the disposability of fast fashion and question the environmental costs of their purchasing decisions, Safiyaa’s model demonstrates how luxury brands can align environmental responsibility with business success.

The brand’s made-to-order approach isn’t just better for the planet—it represents a fundamental reimagining of the relationship between fashion brands and consumers. Rather than producing seasonal collections based on predicted trends and hoping they sell, Safiyaa creates garments only when ordered, eliminating the industry-wide problem of unsold inventory that often ends up in landfills or incinerators. This precision-based production model has positioned Karnuts at the forefront of fashion’s sustainability movement, proving that eco-friendly practices can enhance rather than compromise luxury appeal.

Rethinking Production: The Environmental Benefits of Made-to-Order

Traditional fashion production follows a speculative model: brands create collections months in advance, produce them in volume, and then push them to market through aggressive marketing. This approach inevitably leads to overproduction, with the fashion industry routinely creating far more garments than the market can absorb. The result is staggering waste—deadstock clothing that sits in warehouses, sells at deep discounts that undermine brand value, or ends up destroyed.

Safiyaa disrupts this wasteful cycle through its made-to-order model. “Every Safiyaa item is developed and made to order at the brand’s London, New York, and Istanbul ateliers,” the company states. This approach serves multiple environmental functions simultaneously. It eliminates excess inventory, conserves raw materials, reduces energy consumption in manufacturing, and decreases the carbon footprint associated with storing and shipping unwanted products.

The environmental benefits extend beyond waste reduction. By producing locally in its ateliers rather than outsourcing to distant factories, Safiyaa minimizes transportation emissions that would otherwise be generated by shipping materials and finished products across global supply chains. This localized production also allows for tighter quality control, ensuring that each garment meets the brand’s exacting standards—another factor that contributes to longevity.

“Safiyaa remains an independent vertically integrated family-owned company, dedicated to bridging the gap between a bespoke made-to-measure service and customized technology designed to avoid over production,” the brand explains. This vertical integration gives Karnuts unprecedented control over the entire production process, from design to delivery, enabling a level of environmental stewardship that would be impossible in a more fragmented supply chain.

Material Matters: Fabric Selection as Environmental Strategy

While Safiyaa’s made-to-order model addresses the quantity side of fashion’s environmental equation, the brand’s approach to materials addresses the quality dimension. Karnuts has built Safiyaa around “luxurious fabrics” selected not just for their aesthetic appeal but for their durability and longevity—characteristics that are inherently eco-friendly.

The fashion industry’s shift toward sustainable materials has accelerated in recent years, with eco-friendly demi-couture brands increasingly embracing organic cotton, hemp, recycled polyester, and deadstock fabrics. These materials require fewer resources to produce, generate less pollution, and often have a significantly lower carbon footprint than their conventional counterparts.

Safiyaa’s emphasis on “rich colors and luxurious fabrics” reflects this growing awareness of material sustainability. By selecting high-quality materials that maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time, Karnuts ensures that Safiyaa garments remain wearable for years or even decades—a stark contrast to fast fashion items designed to last only a few wears.

This focus on material quality connects directly to Karnuts’ founding vision. When she launched Safiyaa, she was responding to a gap in the market for women’s clothing that matched the longevity and investment value of men’s tailoring. “It was thus that Safiyaa, named after her daughter and meaning purity, was formed,” the brand explains. This pursuit of “purity” extends to the environmental dimension, with Safiyaa’s materials selected to withstand both changing trends and physical wear.

Beyond Seasonality: Timeless Design as Environmental Practice

Perhaps the most revolutionary aspect of Safiyaa’s environmental approach is its rejection of fashion’s seasonal cycle. Where conventional luxury brands introduce entirely new collections multiple times per year, encouraging consumers to constantly update their wardrobes, Safiyaa focuses on “timeless, elegant pieces that endure beyond a single season.”

This seasonless approach represents a profound environmental statement. By creating garments designed to transcend fleeting trends, Karnuts challenges the planned obsolescence built into most fashion business models. Safiyaa pieces aren’t designed to look dated after six months—they’re created to remain relevant and desirable for years, reducing the pressure on consumers to continually replace their wardrobes.

“When it feels impossible to keep up with the latest trend cycles, Safiyaa offers a wardrobe built on foundational pieces that remain relevant year after year,” the brand notes. “Karnuts has focused on perfecting a core range of pieces that are designed to last, keeping up with consumer sentiment by introducing new categories such as bridal and loungewear rather than making larger collections.”

This philosophy aligns perfectly with the emerging eco-friendly demi-couture movement, which emphasizes “seasonless collections” focused on “timeless designs rather than seasonal trends.” By encouraging customers to invest in pieces that can be worn for years, this approach reduces the environmental impact associated with frequent fashion purchases.

Craftsmanship as Conservation: The Environmental Value of Quality

Central to Safiyaa’s sustainability credentials is its commitment to craftsmanship. Each piece is “made by a team of dedicated artisans to create elevated, versatile collections made for women by women.” This artisanal approach stands in stark contrast to mass production methods that prioritize speed and cost over quality and durability.

The environmental benefits of craftsmanship are substantial but often overlooked in sustainability discussions. Garments that are meticulously constructed by skilled artisans typically last longer, reducing the need for replacement and keeping textiles out of landfills. The attention to detail in construction—precise seams, proper finishing, strategic reinforcement—ensures that Safiyaa pieces maintain their structural integrity through years of wear.

“Known for sharp tailoring and form fitting silhouettes,” Safiyaa exemplifies how craftsmanship contributes to environmental sustainability. The brand’s emphasis on tailoring ensures that each garment fits its wearer perfectly, increasing the likelihood that it will remain a wardrobe staple rather than being discarded due to poor fit or construction.

This focus on quality over quantity represents a return to pre-industrial values in clothing production. Before the rise of fast fashion, garments were significant investments, carefully maintained and often passed down through generations. Safiyaa’s approach helps revive this tradition of clothing as long-term investment, with all the environmental benefits that entails.

Technology as Environmental Enabler

While Safiyaa honors traditional craftsmanship, it doesn’t shy away from technological innovation that can enhance sustainability. The brand is “committed to bridging the gap between a bespoke made-to-measure service and customized technology designed to avoid over production.”

This integration of technology into the made-to-order process represents an important evolution in eco-friendly demi-couture. By leveraging digital tools to streamline ordering, pattern-making, and production planning, Safiyaa can deliver customized garments with remarkable efficiency, reducing resource waste while maintaining quality.

“Safiyaa delivers power of choice and connects the craftsmanship to the client,” the brand explains. This direct connection between artisan and client, facilitated by technology, eliminates many of the inefficiencies in traditional fashion supply chains. Customers receive exactly what they want, artisans create pieces they know will be appreciated, and the environmental waste associated with mass production is avoided.

The Future of Sustainable Luxury

As Safiyaa moves “into its second decade of solid growth and global expansion,” Daniela Karnuts’ approach to eco-friendly demi-couture offers valuable lessons for the broader luxury industry. By combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative production models and a steadfast commitment to timeless design, Safiyaa demonstrates that environmental responsibility and business success can be mutually reinforcing rather than mutually exclusive.

“Imbuing traditional artisanal principles with pioneering technology are just part of Safiyaa’s commitment to leading a responsible, transparent and forward-thinking company with integrity and innovation at its core,” the brand states. This integration of old-world craft and modern efficiency creates a blueprint for sustainable luxury that other brands would be wise to study.

In a world increasingly conscious of fashion’s environmental impact, Safiyaa’s model offers a compelling vision of how the industry might evolve. By creating garments designed to last physically and aesthetically, producing only what customers actually want, and maintaining exacting standards of craftsmanship, Daniela Karnuts isn’t just building a successful luxury brand—she’s helping redefine what luxury means in an age of environmental awareness.

As consumers increasingly demand that their purchases reflect their values, Safiyaa’s eco-friendly approach to demi-couture positions the brand for continued relevance and growth. By demonstrating that sustainability can enhance rather than compromise luxury appeal, Karnuts has created more than just a fashion label—she’s created a model for how we might consume more thoughtfully in a resource-constrained world.

The post Sustainable Luxury: How Daniela Karnuts’ Safiyaa Leads the Eco-Friendly Demi-Couture Movement appeared first on Green Prophet.

Public transport isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B—it’s a gateway to experiencing a city in its truest, most authentic form. It’s one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly ways to travel, helping reduce congestion, cut down on emissions, and lower your carbon footprint. We have spent many journeys on trains and buses in European cities. And some rides, for the cost of the train ride you can be part of a folk train, a sauna train, or the Techno Train. Let’s see how European cities compare in prices, to each other, with inclusions from the Levante.

Single-Ride City Bus/Train Fare Comparison

Inside cities, trains are more than just transportation; they’re stages for spontaneous experiences and unexpected adventures. From techno parties to educational lectures, trains around the world are transforming the way people travel, making public transport a fun, engaging, and sustainable option.

In Germany, the Techno Train doubles as a nightclub on rails, powered by renewable energy and offering an eco-friendly alternative to car travel. It’s not just about the music—it’s about reducing carbon footprints while dancing the night away. Meanwhile, in Israel, professors turn commuter trains into mobile classrooms, giving passengers a chance to learn about everything from physics to Einstein’s love letters. It’s proof that even a daily commute can be inspiring.

For those who love culture and tradition, Germany’s MusikWinkel Express serves local beer with live accordion music, turning a simple ride into a festive celebration. Japan takes a quieter approach with garden-themed trains that promote relaxation and biodiversity, offering passengers a breath of fresh air even in bustling cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.

Other unique experiences include London’s Supper Club Train, combining fine dining with scenic views, and Taiwan’s educational trains where kids can participate in science experiments on the go. For thrill-seekers, Belgium’s Rampage Express pre-party train brings the festival vibes before you even reach the event.

These examples show that train travel can be an adventure in itself. Whether it’s learning, partying, or just enjoying the ride, taking the train offers endless possibilities to connect with others, explore new ideas, and experience the city in a completely new way. So next time, skip the car and hop on a train—who knows what kind of journey you’ll have?

Data source: public transport sites of cities in Europe. Report an inaccuracy, add a city: transport@greenprophet.com

The post The cost of of public transport for major cities in Europe appeared first on Green Prophet.

It’s not being picked up on mainstream media but X users are reporting that the Turkish dog cull has begun.

Earlier this summer President Erdogan announced he’d start culling 4 million stray dogs from the streets of Turkey. The dogs are becoming a nuisance after a failed sterilization program didn’t work. Locals say it was due to lack of enforcement — the same reason why so many new earthquake-proof buildings in Turkey crumbled after the last earthquake. 

Turkish animal activist Insane Huseyin posts thousands of images of abused animals in Turkey. Locals and governments turn a blind eye.

“Has the photo become a poster of the evil that kills innocent animals by injecting them with laundry drugs?” writes Huseyin. “The world is angry and cursing.”

“A man was arrested in Istanbul for trying to stop dog catchers from illegally darting stray dogs without a vet in attendance. People will now end up in prison for trying to stop Presidents Erdogan’s dog genocide,” writes Dominic Dyer.

On Sunday, September 1, 2024, at 15:00 PM, animal rights activists in Turkey will demonstrate to demand justice for Turkish strays and stand in solidarity with Turkish activists risking their lives and liberty to oppose the bloodshed.

They invite all people to join us to call on the Turkish government to repeal the massacre law. This demonstration is hosted by Animal Save Movement and In Defense of Animals. An event will also be hosted in London outside the Turkish Embassy.

“Do not visit Turkey. Go to Greece instead,” says Nioh Berg on X.

It’s not the first time Turkey murdered its stray dogs. In 1910 80,000 strays were sent to a barren island to die. The massacre left a scar on the local psyche and many believed was to blame for the Ottoman defeat in the Balkan Wars & WWI.

Not long ago a Palestinian mayor called for the killing of dogs in Hebron, offering the equivalent of $20 for a truck load of dead dogs. This was until animal rights activist from Bethlehem stepped in – Diana Babish.

Animal abuse is rampant in the Middle East. We have plenty of horror stories from Jordan in our archives on abuse of dogs. Pets are abandoned as people flee climate change and the heat of the UAE.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. Read here about Islam’s teachings on animals for inspiration.

The post Turkey’s 4 million dog cull begins appeared first on Green Prophet.

As car manufactures switch to electric, Horse in London, Renault from France, Geely from China and Saudi Aramco which owns the world’s largest stake of oil, go all in for combustion engines.

Saudi Arabia’s oil company Aramco wholly owned by the Saudi Arabian government is one of the world’s wealthiest companies and is by far sitting on the world’s greatest amount of oil reserves. While Aramco does invest in what seems like noble deeds – in hydrogen energy for instance – its actions of actually developing mega real estate projects such as Neom (dock your mega yacht here) and investing in combustion engine tech shows that Saudi Arabia is planning that its oil reserves will be relevant for generations to come.

The world experienced the two hottest days on record this year, on Sunday and then again it broke the record on Monday, due to climate change but for oil companies like Aramco its business as usual. Or rather, bringing business back to the 80s by investing in combustion engines.

Aramco’s market cap in 2024 was $1.814 trillion with its primary business as the exploration, production, refining, and distribution of petroleum and petrochemical products. The company is significant to Saudi Arabia´s economy, which relies heavily on oil revenues although the country is trying to be open to Western values and tourism and development in the last 5 years.

Saudi Aramco went public in 2019, leading to the largest IPO in history, raising $29.4 billion USD. Despite the large amount of cash raised, only 1.5% of the company was actually floated, with the rest still owned by the Saudi government.

Among the many directions that Aramco is taking – including investing in AI chips – Saudi Aramco is betting that the  internal combustion engine found in cars, trucks, ships and airplanes, will be around for a “very, very long time”. The world’s largest oil company does see opportunity from the rise of the electric car from its $500bn in revenues last year to take a $800 million or 10 per cent stake in Horse Powertrain, a company based in London and dedicated to building fuel-based engines.

Saudi Aramco, Chinese carmaker Geely and the French Renault, are investing in London-based Horse as the as the industry stops designing and developing its own combustion engines, it will need to start buying them from third parties:

“It will be incredibly expensive for the world to completely stamp out, or do without internal combustion engines,” said Yasser Mufti, the executive VP at Saudi Aramco responsible for the deal. “If you look at affordability and a lot of other factors, I do think they will be around for a very, very long time.”

Asked if he thought there would be internal combustion engines forever, Mufti said yes. Saudi Aramco has previously said it believes that even in 2050, more than half of all cars will still run on some sort of fuel. Horse is the “horse” they are better on.

Horse is headquartered in London with operations in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Türkiye. The powertrain plant in Bursa, which was part of Oyak Renault until recently, is now Oyak Horse, a new company set up under a partnership between Oyak and Horse Holding.

Horse Powertrain Limited is a joint venture holding aimed at producing powertrains, including internal combustion engines and hybrid systems.

The venture holding was established in May 2024 and is equally owned by Renault and Geely. It is headquartered in London, United Kingdom.

Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co commonly known as Geely, is a Chinese multinational conglomerate headquartered in Hangzhou, Zhejiang. The company is privately owned by Chinese entrepreneur Li Shufu, and mainly engaged in the automotive industry.

So while car companies such as Ford and GM are pressured by shareholders to shift over to electric engines, the Chinese and Europeans are opening new businesses based on what was supposed to be “past” technology.

Consider that in 2021, GM announced its intention to sell only electric vehicles by 2035.

Electric vehicles are supposed to be the only kind of vehicle on the road in countries like Canada by the year by the year 2035. The new Canadian standard requires all new light-duty vehicle sales in Canada to be electric or plug-in hybrid by 2035. There are also interim targets of at least 20 percent of all sales being EVs by 2026 and 60 percent by 2030.

A growing number of people are buying electric cars, but range anxiety while towing boats or driving hours between cities in northern areas in North America is still a major concern. In rural areas of Canada and the US, locals are concerned about regular access to the grid and blackouts that can be regular during summer and winter storms.

We drove a Tesla this summer and enjoyed the acceleration speed and the cost of $20 a fill up versus $90 for the same sized car. My cousin loved hers so much that she traded in her second vehicle, a Ford truck, for a second Tesla. In her case, rural living means so much more driving for the kids. She estimates saving about $500 or more per car per month, on fuel alone.

Saudi Arabia needs to bet on the combustion engine because the lifestyle of Saudi Arabia depends on it. The moment we stop the oil and gas industry, we will solve the biggest problems with climate change and conflict in the Middle East. I find it interesting that London and the French are in on the game. We expect this from China and Saudi Arabia but opening new businesses for combustion engines? Sounds criminal to the climate movement.

::Horse

The post Saudi’s Aramco, London, China and France bet on combustion engine company Horse appeared first on Green Prophet.

With Covid cases increasing in the UK as we head into winter, more and more businesses are taking precautions to limit the spread of the virus. 

The UK was seeing a lower number of cases during August 2021 with around 20,000 cases per day, but this has increased to 60,000 by October – and now business owners and officials are looking to increase precautions to safeguard the British public and the NHS.

The challenge also remains for a Christmas period which has extra socialising between busy shoppers and office Christmas parties – but something that participants will have to take into consideration of.

Bringing Back Face Masks

Whilst face masks have been optional to wear in public, there is a real chance of this being brought back for high street shops, schools and other places of interest. 

Business and store owners may be encouraged to put signs outside their windows or only allow access to those with face masks. The same may apply to any employees working in offices, restaurants or stores. This has been a company policy for many – but something that might be far more strongly imposed during the winter period. 

Adding Preventative Methods and Appliances

Protective screens and designated areas for covid have been slowly implemented in the last 18 months and these, along with other hygienic solutions are set to continue.This includes the inclusion of designated areas at the entrance of stores, gyms and restaurants, with clear hand sanitiser and temperature of guests taken upon entry. 

Otherwise, hand washing stations continue to be added to schools, places of worship and stadiums – encouraging hygiene and reducing the spread of covid where possible.

Less People in Offices

Whilst offices have slowly been refilled, this is likely to slow down again to avoid future spread of the dreaded pandemic. 

Some offices have been operating fully or on time rotas, but we may find a complete return to working remotely or very socially distanced working in any offices that remain open.

Hospitality Restrictions 

Bars, restaurants and shops are bound to be busier during the holiday season. This is something that business owners are going to need to manage carefully, without affecting their bottom line.

Places of interest may only allow a certain number of people in a location, with a maximum capacity, encouraging people to wait and queue outside.

Inside of locations, guests should be 2m apart and wearing masks (and positively gloves) to ensure your Christmas period is not ruined by the coronavirus.

The post UK Businesses Are Planning to Increase Covid Restrictions This Winter appeared first on Green Prophet.

The media brushed off the early days of COVID-19 as just another version of the flu virus. Some 18 months later, the public is only aware that Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory infections caused by viruses. However, these diseases are caused by distinct viruses. Infection with a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) causes COVID-19, while flu results from the influenza viruses.

This strain of Covid is more contagious than flu and can cause more severe diseases in certain people. With other vital factors becoming apparent, it takes longer for patients to develop symptoms, and people with the virus are contagious for extended periods.

The world is waking up to the fact that life will never be the same again. However, after a summary of everything we know, we can advise you how to look after yourself and your family and try to resume some semblance of normality.

What is COVID-19?

Covid-19 is one of a collection of Coronaviruses, each having a more or less severe effect on people and animals. Medical experts were aware of the Coronavirus family, with the first batch of research being carried out in the mid-sixties.

Coronaviruses take their name from the noticeable spikes with rounded tops that cover their surface. These tips reminded virologists of a sun’s atmosphere. Coronavirus research has been around since 1963. In 1964 the first human Coronavirus was identified by scientists.

In January 2020, Chinese state media reported that a team of researchers led by Professor Xu Jianguo had identified the pathogen behind their mysterious outbreak in Wuhan as a novel, or new, Coronavirus. Although it became known initially as 2019 –nCoV and then renamed SARS –CoV 2, the virus remains commonly called just “the Coronavirus” or “COVID-19”.

The Coronaviruses reside in most people in the guise of the common cold or mild respiratory infection. In 2019, the virus mutated into something more serious, causing some people to become very ill. 

The virus killed many people while others experienced common flu-like symptoms – it was clear this virus was nothing like any other disease experienced globally for at least 100 years.

Covid-19 has proved to be a problematic virus to deal with. For 18 months from the original breakout, over 4.65M people have lost their lives, and a significant amount of others live with post-COVID disorders or Long-COVID.

Research shows that more than four weeks after being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, some people might develop a wide range of new, returning, or chronic health problems. COVID-19 mainly affects the elderly, pregnant women, and those with specific underlying medical disorders.

How does COVID-19 spread?

Once the outbreak in Wuhan happened, the pandemic spread quickly. Suddenly it was not just a matter of being prepared with knowledge on how to protect yourself, but also it was vital to understand the risks and symptoms that come with it. 

Scientists found the most common way for this virus to spread is through contact with bodily fluids or secretions, specifically sweat, blood, or saliva, and through contamination by droplets from an infected person’s coughs or sneezes.

Although there has been speculation about COVID-19, most experts agree transmission happens mainly in three ways.

• Standing near an infected person breathing out minute droplets and particles containing the virus into the air will cause infection.
• Having virus-carrying droplets and particles land in the eyes, nose, or mouth, mainly through splashes and sprays such as a cough or sneeze.
• Anyone touching their face, eyes, mouth, or nose with virus-infected hands will become ill.

The general opinion is that people within 6 feet of an infected person are most likely to contract the disease.

Signs and symptoms of COVID-19

COVID-19 has been linked to a broad spectrum of symptoms, from minor aches to severe and life-changing illnesses. Symptoms will emerge from 2 days after exposure to the virus and as long as 14 days after being infected.

It’s vital to know what signs indicate COVID-19 exposure if this should happen because these can range anywhere from moderate (lasting several weeks) to severe (lasting months) and even death.

The following is a list of symptoms, but it’s essential to understand the list may not apply to everyone as different people have reported a vast range of symptoms and outcomes from contacting the virus – the list below is the most commonly reported symptoms.

• Fever or chills
• Dry coughs and coughing
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Mild to extreme fatigue
• Tingling muscles or body aches
• Headaches and disorientation
• Loss of taste or smell
• Sore or itchy throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Inability to stay awake

Prevention methods for COVID-19

To lessen your chances of contracting COVID-19 or spreading it to others, follow steps:

1. Meet people outside whenever possible.
2. If meeting people inside, limit the number of individuals you meet and avoid crowded settings. 
3. If meeting people inside, try to open doors and windows to let in the fresh air whenever possible.
4. When it’s challenging to stay away from other people, use a facial covering.
5. Throughout the day, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 
6. Regularly use hand sanitizer, even if you have been washing your hands. 
7. Prevent touching your eyes, nose, or mouth if your hands aren’t clean.

What will life be like after COVID-19?

There is no cure for C19. The vaccination program being rolled out throughout the world is the only effective tool against the virus, but the longer-term effects of the pandemic are far-reaching.

Until the entire world is vaccinated, travel restrictions will remain in place, and caution is recommended. There is a never-ending amount of speculation on what society will look like in five years. Experts in social studies suggest that positive things will emerge from our collective experiences.

People will most likely require yearly top-up vaccinations and regular testing for people who travel regularly. 

On a positive note, experts suggest that there will be global solidarity against the effects of the virus with a broader view for the common good. Social scientists project that the pandemic’s common difficulties and experiences will create solidarity and bring people closer together – we hope this is true.

The post COVID Health 101: Know the facts to stay safe | Testing kits appeared first on Green Prophet.

Dubai is one of the fastest growing cities in the world and, as with all major cities, traffic congestion is becoming an ever present issue. Traffic causes smog and respiratory illness, as well as a major part of our world’s greenhouse gases. According to the latest statistics, Dubai’s metropolitan area is now home to just over 2.5 million people and, while the current road network is managing to cope with the current demands, it won’t stay that way for long.

To ensure the city continues to grow and remain both a business hub and a tourist destination, the United Arab Emirates’s Ministry of Public Works recently announced its intention to explore new projects heading into 2017. One of the major areas of investigation for transport experts is the possibility of a new federal road connecting northern emirates to Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

New Roads Planned

Set to run parallel with the Emirates Road, the new road would complement plans to expand the E611 road from three lanes to seven in Sharjah and six in Dubai. One of the main reasons for wanting to ensure a smooth route for commuters is city’s growing tourist population. Back in 2012 the country welcomed a record breaking 10 million tourists and in 2015 the government set out plans to achieve 9% annual growth in the coming years.

However, for the city to remain a tourist hotspot it will need to ensure its travel links to and from Dubai International Airport are the best they can be. Acting as a source of comparison for city planners is London. Home to London Heathrow, the third busiest airport in the world, the UK’s capital poses a number of difficulties for the travel industry.

Dubai’s Own London Underground

“UK, London – Underground train” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Lukes_photos 

Indeed, according to the INRIX 2015 Traffic Scorecard, London is the most congested city in the world with commuters facing an average of 101 hours stuck in traffic each year. On top of this finding, studies have also shown that the average journey across London (15 miles) take 56 minutes. Naturally, with time being of the essence when it comes to flying, the best way to get around this issue is the underground.

As suggested by the travel company ebookers, getting a train from Central London to Heathrow can significantly reduce a commuter’s travel time. For example, the Heathrow Express from Paddington Station will take 15 minutes compared to driving times in excess of 30 minutes.

Of course, one of the reasons most travel experts recommend the London Underground as a way to get across the city is the lack of scope for building more roads. However, the environmental benefits of this system can’t be overlooked.

Don’t Rely on Roads is the Message from Experts

“London underground” (CC BY 2.0) by Negativexpositive 

Dubai has already taken a leaf from London’s travel book in this regard by opening a driverless metro system that can take people from various parts of the city right into the airport’s main terminals.

Naturally, Dubai has similar space restrictions to consider, but it shouldn’t simply rely on road links when it comes to tourism as London has shown.  Indeed, despite London having 5X more residents than Dubai, passenger numbers at Dubai International Airport are just 18% lower than Heathrow which suggests ministers should focus more resources on the Metro system.

With experts pointing to the underground system as the best way for travelers to cross London to get to Heathrow, this should serve as a lesson to Dubai’s travel ministers currently assessing the city’s roads. Indeed, Dubai is fortunate in that is can avoid London’s mistakes and prevent congestion issues before they happen by focusing on the Metro system.

While there are certainly reasons to increase road links in Dubai, the government shouldn’t lose sight of the need for solid rail links if it wants to meet its target of 9% growth in the tourism industry over the next decade.

Top image via “Dubai” (CC BY 2.0) by  bonus1up 

The post Dubai learns from London’s traffic woes appeared first on Green Prophet.