Glass Wings Blog: August 2024
BMW rolls out impressive fuel cell iX5, but the time has already passed for hydrogen cars
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 11:49:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/10/bmw-rolls-out-impressive-fuel-cell-ix5-but-for-hydrogen-cars-the-time-has-already-passed/>
"Generally speaking,
TheDriven focusses on full battery electric vehicles
(BEVs) as this is by far the largest EV segment and the one that is showing the
greatest likelihood of becoming the predominant electric form.
(More...)
A wildlife park has scrapped koala cuddles. Is it time for a blanket ban?
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 11:50:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-wildlife-park-has-scrapped-koala-cuddles-is-it-time-for-a-blanket-ban-234098>
"A popular wildlife park in Brisbane has announced it will no longer offer
“koala holds”, prompting questions about whether other captive animal
facilities should follow.
(More...)
South Australia locks in federal funds to become first grid in world to reach 100 per cent net wind and solar
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 11:51:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/south-australia-locks-in-federal-funds-to-become-first-grid-in-world-to-reach-100-per-cent-net-wind-and-solar/>
"South Australia has locked in federal funding to ensure that it becomes the
first non-hydro grid in the world to reach 100 per cent net renewables.
(More...)
Alice Springs is under a snap curfew. But where’s the evidence it will actually work to reduce violence?
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 11:53:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/alice-springs-is-under-a-snap-curfew-but-wheres-the-evidence-it-will-actually-work-to-reduce-violence-234267>
"Since early 2023, the Northern Territory and federal governments have been
trialling a range of social control measures in Alice Springs (Mparntwe) to
address moral panics in relation to youth crime.
(More...)
The end of superpower conflict was ‘a fantasy era’. The West underestimated Russia and China – the cold wars are back
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 11:55:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
"The Avengers" Cast Reassembles to Dub Film in Lakota Language
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 11:57:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reactormag.com/the-avengers-cast-reassembles-to-dub-film-in-lakota-language/>
"Members of the Lakota nation and Marvel Entertainment have teamed up to
provide a dub of 2012’s
The Avengers in the Lakota language, with the core
cast—Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Chris
(More...)
Why do dogs have different coats? Experts explain – and give grooming tips for different types
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 18:24:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-do-dogs-have-different-coats-experts-explain-and-give-grooming-tips-for-different-types-232480>
"Dog hair comes in many varieties, from shaggy to short, curly to straight. If
you live with a dog, you live with their hair – on your couch, in your clothes,
it’s everywhere!
(More...)
Devastation as world’s biggest wetland burns: ‘those that cannot run don’t stand a chance’
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 18:25:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/09/devastation-as-worlds-biggest-wetland-burns-those-that-cannot-run-dont-stand-a-chance-brazil-pantanal>
"Perched atop blackened trees, howler monkeys survey the ashes around them. A
flock of rheas treads, disoriented, in search of water. The skeletons of
alligators lie lifeless and charred.
(More...)
Priscila, Queen of the Rideshare Mafia
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 18:26:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.wired.com/story/priscila-queen-of-the-rideshare-mafia/
"She came to the US with a dream. Using platforms like Uber, Instacart, and
DoorDash, she built a business empire up from nothing. There was just one
problem."
(More...)
Drones Are Whizzing Lifesaving Supplies Across the ‘Last Mile’
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 18:27:38 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/drones-delivering-emergency-medical-supplies/>
"Five minutes before midnight on the last day of 2023, a doctor in northern
Rwanda sent a WhatsApp message requesting supplies. His patient, a woman who
had just given birth, was hemorrhaging.
(More...)
How Specialty Recyclers Are Reducing Waste
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 18:28:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/how-specialty-recyclers-are-reducing-waste/>
"We ask a lot of food packaging. It needs to look good and keep perishable food
safe, intact and unblemished as it travels from the producer to grocery stores
and then on to people’s homes, with minimal weight.
(More...)
This alternative to supermarkets can help you save on groceries, but most people don't know it exists
Thu, 1 Aug 2024 18:30:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-10/supermarket-alternative-co-ops-save-money/104078660>
'It's 5:30am on a cold Saturday and Paddy's Markets Flemington, a fruit and
vegetable market in western Sydney, is already buzzing.
(More...)
Fossil fuel industry’s anti-climate and anti-renewables playbook goes back 57 years – they are still hard at it
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 02:43:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/fossil-fuel-industrys-anti-climate-and-anti-renewables-playbook-goes-back-57-years-they-are-still-hard-at-it/>
"In news that will surprise no one, a new report says fossil fuel lobbyists
have been using the same playbook to delay the transition to renewables for 57
years.
(More...)
5 First Nations picture books for Australian children to read during NAIDOC week – or any time
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 02:45:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/5-first-nations-picture-books-for-australian-children-to-read-during-naidoc-week-or-any-time-234171>
"Books are powerful tools for educating and empowering children about the
histories, achievements and ongoing contributions of First Nations peoples to
Australian society.
(More...)
AI datacentres to strain Australia’s energy supply, spike prices without change, expert says
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 02:47:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/10/ai-datacentres-to-strain-australias-energy-supply-spike-prices-without-change-expert-says>
"Soaring electricity demand from datacentres could strain supplies and
contribute to much higher prices unless tech firms agree to act like aluminium
smelters that can power up or down to support the grid, an energy analyst says.
(More...)
Australian amber has revealed ‘living fossils’ traced back to Gondwana 42 million years ago
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 02:48:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australian-amber-has-revealed-living-fossils-traced-back-to-gondwana-42-million-years-ago-232990>
"Amber is fossilised tree resin. Unlike traditional fossils found on land or in
the sea, amber can preserve ancient life forms in incredible detail. It’s often
considered the “holy grail” of palaeontology worldwide.
(More...)
Shackleton’s wrecked Endurance to get extra protection
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 02:49:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/10/shackletons-wrecked-endurance-to-get-extra-protection>
"A protection ring around the
Endurance, one of the most famous shipwrecks of
all time, is to be widened from 500 metres to 1,500 metres in order to restrict
activities close to the vessel.
(More...)
Rep. AOC Delivers Major Floor Speech on Articles of Impeachment Against Justices Thomas and Alito
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 02:51:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFUw4Oo_7ak
"Corruption, without consequence, infects all it touches. To contain it,
Congress must exercise its powers to impeach.
(More...)
From FLiRT to FLuQE: what to know about the latest COVID variants on the rise
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 12:27:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/from-flirt-to-fluqe-what-to-know-about-the-latest-covid-variants-on-the-rise-234073>
"We’re in the midst of a bad cold and flu season in Australia. Along with the
usual viral suspects, such as influenza, RSV, and rhinoviruses (which cause the
common cold), bacterial pathogens are also causing significant rates of
(More...)
Chinese navy destroyer and helicopter shadowed Australian warship during high-profile standoff, documents show
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 12:28:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/11/chinese-navy-destroyer-and-helicopter-shadowed-australian-warship-during-high-profile-standoff-documents-show>
"An Australian helicopter was flying south-east of China’s Shandong peninsula
but outside its territorial waters when a Chinese fighter aircraft released
flares in its path, new documents show.
(More...)
Think you could pick a criminal suspect out of a lineup? If they’ve shaved or changed their clothes, you’d probably fail
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 12:29:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/think-you-could-pick-a-criminal-suspect-out-of-a-lineup-if-theyve-shaved-or-changed-their-clothes-youd-probably-fail-233117>
"Many of us would like to think if we saw a stranger committing a crime, we’d
be able to identify them later in a lineup. Even if it was only a fleeting
glimpse, a haircut or a different outfit wouldn’t stop us recognising them
(More...)
Freight expectations: if Booktopia closes, where can I buy books online?
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 12:30:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/article/2024/jul/11/freight-expectations-if-booktopia-closes-where-can-i-buy-books-online>
"These are tough times for certain kinds of booksellers. Australia’s largest
online book retailer, Booktopia, which was founded in 2004, entered voluntary
administration last week, admitting it had been trading at a loss for more than
(More...)
Letters from an American: July 10, 2024
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 12:31:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-10-2024
"“In 1949, when leaders of 12 countries, including President Truman, came
together in this very room, history was watching,” President Joe Biden said
yesterday evening at the opening of the 2024 NATO Summit, being held from July
(More...)
How might the Melbourne factory fire affect health and the environment? An air pollution expert explains
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 12:32:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-might-the-melbourne-factory-fire-affect-health-and-the-environment-an-air-pollution-expert-explains-234379>
"A very large factory fire in Melbourne sent plumes of thick, dark smoke
billowing across the western part of the city on Wednesday afternoon, with
authorities issuing warnings for people in surrounding suburbs. The fire has
(More...)
My Favourite Cult Film: Harold and Maude
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 18:28:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Your parents’ income doesn’t determine yours – unless you’re ultra rich or extremely poor
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 18:29:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/your-parents-income-doesnt-determine-yours-unless-youre-ultra-rich-or-extremely-poor-234158>
"Australia is among the strongest global performers in terms of income mobility
between the generations, according to a new Productivity Commission report.
(More...)
Sweden launches groundbreaking new childcare law
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 18:31:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/sweden-childcare-grandparents-pay-allowance-b2572331.html>
"Sweden has launched a groundbreaking new law that allows grandparents to step
in and get paid parental leave.
(More...)
Beaver pair reducing flood risks, scientists say
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 18:33:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c7287py1ezpo
"Two beavers are successfully reducing the risk of flooding in Plymouth,
scientists have said.
(More...)
Surprise: American voters actually largely agree on many issues, including topics like abortion, immigration and wealth inequality
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 18:34:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/surprise-american-voters-actually-largely-agree-on-many-issues-including-topics-like-abortion-immigration-and-wealth-inequality-229458>
"As the presidential election campaign heats up, media coverage suggests
Americans are hopelessly divided and headed for a difficult fall – perhaps also
a tense January.
(More...)
LLMs can solve any word problem! As long as they can crib the answer
Fri, 2 Aug 2024 18:35:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pivot-to-ai.com/2024/07/06/llms-can-solve-any-word-problem-as-long-as-they-can-crib-the-answer/>
"AI companies keep claiming that LLMs do reasoning. The AI can think! The AI
can figure out word puzzles! The AI can pass the LSAT! You’re fired!
(More...)
‘Raised on fantasies’
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 03:50:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-12/japanese-anime-soft-power-pokemon-astro-boy-military-manga/104042324>
How animation and soft power transformed perceptions of Japan from military
threat to peddler of fantasies and dreams.
(More...)
Librarians have good reasons to ‘weed’ books from their shelves. Why is book removal so controversial?
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 03:51:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/librarians-have-good-reasons-to-weed-books-from-their-shelves-why-is-book-removal-so-controversial-232163>
"Earlier this year, the removal of thousands of books to make room for
renovations at Melbourne’s City Library prompted an outcry. Removing the books
was “an absolute act of vandalism,” librarian Alice Bluer told
The Age.
(More...)
US reportedly foiled Russian plot to kill boss of German arms firm supplying Ukraine
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 03:53:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/11/us-reportedly-foiled-russian-plot-to-kill-boss-of-german-arms-firm-supplying-ukraine>
"US intelligence services have foiled a Russian plot to assassinate the chief
executive of Germany’s leading arms manufacturer, which was an apparent attempt
at retaliation over the company’s role in providing a large amount of armaments
(More...)
Nike Pledged to Shrink Its Carbon Footprint. It Just Slashed the Staff Charged With Making That Happen.
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 03:54:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.propublica.org/article/nike-layoffs-sustainability-climate-change>
"Eight years ago, the world’s largest sports apparel brand made a bold
commitment. Nike was embarking on what it called a moonshot: doubling its
business while halving its impact on the warming planet.
(More...)
‘Knowledge keeps the fires burning’: how ancient Indigenous wisdom can transform our battle against climate change
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 03:55:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/knowledge-keeps-the-fires-burning-how-ancient-indigenous-wisdom-can-transform-our-battle-against-climate-change-234074>
"The theme of this year’s NAIDOC Week is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and
Proud”. The organisers are calling for “a society where the wisdom and
contributions of Indigenous peoples are fully valued and respected”.
(More...)
Not quite a street, not quite a road – why ‘stroads’ are disasters of urban planning, and how to fix them
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 03:57:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/not-quite-a-street-not-quite-a-road-why-stroads-are-disasters-of-urban-planning-and-how-to-fix-them-232485>
"Have you ever walked or ridden a bike along a street, and thought to yourself,
“Gosh, it’s noisy”, or “This feels unpleasant”? Odds are you were on a stroad.
(More...)
Russian Satellite Explodes
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 12:32:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium.cfd/https://medium.com/the-dock-on-the-bay/russian-satellite-explodes-4d36f73bfc6d>
"On June 26th, 2024, Resurs-P1, a defunct Russian remote sensing satellite,
unexpectedly fragmented into hundreds of pieces — colloquially known as an
unscheduled disassembly. This breakup forced astronauts aboard the
(More...)
What happens when matter is squashed to the brink of collapse? We weighed a neutron star to help NASA find out
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 12:32:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/what-happens-when-matter-is-squashed-to-the-brink-of-collapse-we-weighed-a-neutron-star-to-help-nasa-find-out-229813>
"Neutron stars are some of the most extreme objects in the universe. Formed
from the collapsed cores of supergiant stars, they weigh more than our Sun and
yet are compressed into a sphere the size of a city.
(More...)
Australian CEOs made less in 2023-24 but still earned on average 50 times a typical worker’s wage
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 12:33:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/12/australian-ceos-average-wage-workers>
"Chief executives in Australia’s largest companies are making slightly less
money but are still taking home on average 50 times the pay package of a
typical worker.
(More...)
Fertility declines, tapering populations, soaring life expectancies: What the U.N. population report shows about us and our future on this planet
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 12:34:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nbcnews.com/data-graphics/graphics-2024-united-nations-world-population-prospects-report-data-rcna160017>
"Fertility rates around the world are dropping quicker than expected, putting
the world on track to see a population decline before the end of the century,
according to a report from the United Nations.
(More...)
Fake Picassos in a ladies toilet: why the saga at MONA is one of the most effective pieces of performance art I’ve seen
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 12:35:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/fake-picassos-in-a-ladies-toilet-why-the-saga-at-mona-is-one-of-the-most-effective-pieces-of-performance-art-ive-seen-234470>
"In the latest instalment of the Ladies Lounge saga at Hobart’s Museum of Old
and New Art (MONA), curator Kirsha Kaechele has revealed she faked a number of
Pablo Picasso paintings hanging in the gallery’s new ladies toilets,
(More...)
‘Frog saunas’ could save species from deadly fungal disease, study finds
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 12:37:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/11/frog-saunas-australia-research-treatment-deadly-fungal-disease-aoe>
"A “sauna” treatment for frogs has been used by researchers in Australia to
successfully fight a deadly fungal disease that has devastated amphibians
around the world, according to a new study.
(More...)
Gel manicures and acrylic nails might look beautiful but they come with ugly health risks
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 18:39:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/gel-manicures-and-acrylic-nails-might-look-beautiful-but-they-come-with-ugly-health-risks-232857>
"From Kylie Jenner and Rihanna to Ariana Grande and Cardi B, celebrities are
sporting long, acrylics – often heavily embellished with nail art – as an
expression of their style. Nail fashion is now a booming industry with gel
(More...)
As gas runs out in the Bass Strait the debate over how to dismantle massive offshore rigs is heating up
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 18:40:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-12/controversy-over-essos-plans-to-dismantle-offshore-gas-rigs/104076538>
'The network of offshore oil and gas platforms launched more than 50 years ago
in the Bass Strait turned Victoria into an Australian energy powerhouse.
(More...)
Court orders Japanese government to pay damages over forced sterilisations
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 18:41:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/03/court-orders-japanese-government-to-pay-damages-over-forced-sterilisations>
"Japan’s supreme court has ordered the government to pay damages to dozens of
people who were forcibly sterilised under a now-defunct eugenics law, saying
the practice had violated their constitutional rights.
(More...)
The brain makes a lot of waste. Now scientists think they know where it goes
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 18:42:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/06/26/g-s1-6177/brain-waste-removal-system-amyloid-alzheimer-toxins>
"About 170 billion cells are in the brain, and as they go about their regular
tasks, they produce waste — a lot of it. To stay healthy, the brain needs to
wash away all that debris. But how exactly it does this has remained a mystery.
(More...)
AI propaganda campaign in Rwanda has been pushing pro-Kagame messages – a dangerous new trend in Africa
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 18:44:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ai-propaganda-campaign-in-rwanda-has-been-pushing-pro-kagame-messages-a-dangerous-new-trend-in-africa-234296>
"At the end of May 2024, several media outlets led by the journalist network
Forbidden Stories released a set of reports titled “Rwanda Classified”. This
reporting detailed evidence related to the suspicious death of Rwandan
(More...)
South Australia’s renewable triumph is stunning proof that Dutton’s nuclear plans are a folly
Sat, 3 Aug 2024 18:45:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/south-australias-renewable-triumph-is-stunning-proof-that-duttons-nuclear-plans-are-a-folly/>
"When the federal and state governments were deciding on a location to announce
a funding deal that will underwrite South Australia’s final leap to its
remarkable goal of 100 per cent net renewables within the next three years,
(More...)
Lions in a Uganda park make a perilous journey across a 1.5km stretch of water: study suggests the drive is to find mates
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 03:56:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/lions-in-a-uganda-park-make-a-perilous-journey-across-a-1-5km-stretch-of-water-study-suggests-the-drive-is-to-find-mates-233807>
"Domestic cats will do almost anything to avoid contact with water. Not so for
their wild cousins, though. Lions, tigers and jaguars have had to adapt to
water and sometimes take the plunge for survival.
(More...)
“The most dumb thing" for energy storage: Hydrogen
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 03:57:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIVmSewHqMY
"Germany, the United States, the UK, the EU, and many other countries are
looking toward hydrogen to be a clean miracle fuel to power the future. It
sounds good at first, but hydrogen has a bunch of problems - one of which is
(More...)
Can humanity address climate change without believing it? Medical history suggests it is possible
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 03:57:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Bright Green Futures Ep 14: Imagining Another Life with Author and Editor Sarena Ulibarri
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 03:59:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://brightgreenfutures.substack.com/p/ep-14-imagining-another-life-with>
"In this episode, I chat with Author and Editor Sarena Ulibarri about her
novella,
Another Life, how she was radicalized by
The Conquest of Bread,
and how social ecology, anarchism, and communalism inspired her worldbuilding."
(More...)
Quieting the Global Growl
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 04:00:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://hakaimagazine.com/features/quieting-the-global-growl/
"It’s late September, and autumn colors flush the forested slopes of Quebec’s
Laurentian Mountains. Sun dapples the two-lane blacktop that winds above
Canada’s brilliant blue St. Lawrence River. The St. Lawrence is a marine
(More...)
Why Capitalism and Feminism Can’t Coexist
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 04:02:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://jacobin.com/2019/09/capitalism-socialist-feminism-inequality-sexism>
"The question of whether capitalism is good for women is one that both
feminists and nonfeminists have debated for a long time. But each upsurge of
interest in the question is embedded in a particular context. So, what are the
(More...)
Follow the Crypto
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 12:21:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.citationneeded.news/follow-the-crypto/
"Did you know that the cryptocurrency industry has spent more on 2024 elections
in the United States than the oil industry? More than the pharmaceutical
industry?
(More...)
Blockade Australia plans more climate protests disrupting Newcastle trains, saying disobedience is the only option
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 12:22:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Temperatures 1.5C above pre-industrial era average for 12 months, data shows
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 12:23:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/08/temperatures-1-point-5c-above-pre-industrial-era-average-for-12-months-data-shows>
"The world has baked for 12 consecutive months in temperatures 1.5C (2.7F)
greater than their average before the fossil fuel era, new data shows.
(More...)
American Conversations: Secretary of State Antony Blinken
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 12:24:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/american-conversations-secretary>
"On February 4, 2021, in a speech at the State Department, President Joe Biden
talked about the importance of diplomacy and the different actions he had taken
in the two weeks since taking office. Then he said: “There’s no longer a bright
(More...)
Climate protesters won’t be deterred by fines, jail or political mixed messages on the environment
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 12:25:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/commentisfree/article/2024/jul/09/climate-protesters-wont-be-deterred-by-fines-jail-or-political-mixed-messages-on-the-environment>
"As pro-Palestinian protesters sparked outrage scaling the roof of Parliament
House last week, a few dozen activists at Newcastle were making an equally
sharp point – mostly to less fanfare.
(More...)
Enshittification as Overproduction in Software, Part 1: Seeing Overproduction
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 12:26:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/@ElizAyer/enshittification-as-overproduction-in-software-part-1-seeing-overproduction-7f175bca7724>
"As someone who has previously enshittified a product, I have a few things to
say about this moment of mass enshittification…
(More...)
This Tiny Sports Car Is The Future Of EVs
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 18:20:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium.cfd/https://medium.com/predict/this-tiny-sports-car-is-the-future-of-evs-46e1f2b0be0f>
"Electric vehicles are on the cusp of rendering their combustion rivals
obsolete. The best-selling cars in the world are now electric, and the charging
infrastructure is nearing maturity, particularly in places like Europe. But,
(More...)
Can Japan’s First Same-Sex Dating Reality Show Change Hearts and Minds?
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 18:22:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/30/world/asia/the-boyfriend-netflix.html
"Japan is the only country among the world’s wealthiest democracies that has
not legalized same-sex unions. Few celebrities are openly gay. Conservative
groups oppose legislative efforts to protect the L.G.B.T.Q. community.
(More...)
Preservation Matters: Disasters - Saving Wet Books After A Flood
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 18:23:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/preservation-matters-disasters-saving-wet-books-after-a-flood.htm>
"Wet books and papers are some of the most fragile items to be salvaged from a
home or library after a flood. Paper loses strength when it gets wet, and books
suffer damage due to swelling. Additionally, mold may begin to grow when
(More...)
Why You Should Always Choose a Window Seat on a Plane During Flu Season
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 18:24:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/why-you-should-choose-window-seat-during-flu-season>
'Getting ready to fly during flu season? You may want to book your flight early
for a good seat so you can avoid catching the sniffles. Research on the
transmission of infectious illnesses and diseases on commercial aircraft have
(More...)
U.S., Allies Issue Rare Warning on Chinese Hacking Group
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 18:27:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/u-s-allies-issue-rare-warning-on-chinese-hacking-group-9eebb0ce?st=cdo1eyb7rl4e9y9>
"SYDNEY—Australia, the U.S. and six other allies warned that a Chinese
state-sponsored hacking group poses a threat to their networks, in an unusual
coordinated move by Western governments to call out a global hacking operation
(More...)
30,000 square kilometers of Ukraine's land cleared of mine threats, operations expanding further
Sun, 4 Aug 2024 18:28:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://kyivindependent.com/30-000-square-kilometers-of-ukraines-land-cleared-of-mine-threats-operations-expanding-further/>
"Ukrainian Colonel Ruslan Berehulia, head of the Ministry of Defense's
Environmental Safety and Mine Action Department, reported that Defense Ministry
specialists have cleared 30,000 square kilometers of Ukraine over the past two
(More...)
Y'all Masking: The Solidarity in Safety
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 05:15:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apuffofabsurdity.blogspot.com/2024/07/yall-masking-solidarity-in-safety.html>
"It's taken off so much, it's making Twitter almost unusable for anything else.
Picture after picture after picture of people wearing masks in their daily
life.
(More...)
Ukrainians wrap up landmine clearance exercises in Cambodia
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 05:18:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://apnews.com/article/cambodia-ba71042128daecf15e1638d8c572cc1e
"SIEM REAP, Cambodia (AP) — A group of 15 Ukrainian deminers on Friday wrapped
up a week of training in Cambodia, where experts who have cleared minefields
from one of the world’s most contaminated countries shared their expertise with
(More...)
Canada warns of AI-driven Russian 'bot farm' spreading disinformation online
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 05:19:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-russian-bot-farm-1.7259665
"Canadian security officials are warning about a Russian propaganda campaign
that used the social media site X to spread disinformation online.
(More...)
Colombia deforestation fell to 23-year low in 2023
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 05:20:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/colombia-deforestation-fell-23-year-low-2023-2024-07-08/>
"BOGOTA, July 8 (Reuters) - Deforestation in Colombia fell 36% to a 23-year low
in 2023, driven by declining environmental destruction in the Amazon region,
the environment ministry said on Monday.
(More...)
A new school teaches children from low-income families to be journalists
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 05:21:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/a-new-school-teaches-children-from-low-income-families-to-be-journalists/>
"It may be better known for its steel bands, jerk pits and sound systems, but
next month’s Notting Hill Carnival has a new addition to the line-up: a team of
journalists as young as five.
(More...)
After a century away, sturgeons return to Swedish waters
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 05:22:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://phys.org/news/2024-06-century-sturgeons-swedish.html
'A century after it disappeared from Swedish waters, scientists in June
embarked on a 10-year project to reintroduce the Atlantic sturgeon to a
cleaned-up river in the west of the country.
(More...)
How Germany’s ‘Orchestra of Change’ Inspires Action
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 11:41:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/germanys-orchestra-of-change-sustainability/>
"Sipping a beer, electronic musician Hannes Teichmann looked around the
darkened Apollo Hall, a soaring, gilded room in Berlin’s regal Staatsoper, or
State Opera. Beneath enormous drop crystal chandeliers, 30-somethings in
(More...)
The Great Nile Migration
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 11:43:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.africanparks.org/campaign/great-nile-migration
"South Sudan plays host to one of nature's most spectacular events: the Great
Nile Migration, the largest land mammal migration on Earth. The Boma Badingilo
Jonglei Landscape (BBJL) in the southeast of South Sudan, is the setting for
(More...)
‘I play with happiness’: the table tennis star making her Olympic debut at 58
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 11:44:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/article/2024/jul/10/i-play-with-happiness-the-table-tennis-star-making-her-olympic-debut-at-58>
"Zhiying Zeng isn’t fussed about travelling to Portugal’s world-class table
tennis training facility, the Mirandela Center, to prepare for Paris alongside
her Olympic cohorts. “I’d prefer to train here,” she says, gesturing to her
(More...)
Eleven new biosphere reserves added to global list
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 11:45:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/07/1151806
"The UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Friday
designated 11 new biosphere reserves, recognizing their importance for
conserving biodiversity and cultural heritage.
(More...)
Restoration of Maple River offers hope for future conservation initiatives
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 11:46:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
The Gunman and the Would-Be Dictator
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 11:47:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/07/donald-trump-democracy-dictator/679006/>
"When a madman hammered nearly to death the husband of then–House Speaker Nancy
Pelosi, Donald Trump jeered and mocked. One of Trump’s sons and other close
Trump supporters avidly promoted false claims that Paul Pelosi had somehow
(More...)
How debt-for-nature swaps have protected the world’s tropical forests for 25 years
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 18:37:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/how-debt-for-nature-swaps-have-protected-the-world-s-tropical-forests-for-25-years>
"Tropical forests are among Earth’s most important natural treasures. They
house most of the world’s biodiversity on land, help mitigate climate change,
and provide livelihoods for local communities and Indigenous peoples who’ve
(More...)
Pluralistic: The true, tactical significance of Project 2025 (14 Jul 2024)
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 18:43:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://pluralistic.net/2024/07/14/fracture-lines/#disassembly-manual
"Like you, I have heard a lot about Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation's
roadmap for the actions that Trump should take if he wins the presidency. Given
the Heritage Foundation's centrality to the American authoritarian project,
(More...)
A Protected Place
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 18:46:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.biographic.com/a-protected-place/
"When I finally reached the crest of the windswept hilltop and took in the
rocky terrain around me, my first thought was that it looked dead. This was the
Badia, an arid landscape covering 80 percent of the country of Jordan, and I’d
(More...)
Junk food is promoted online to appeal to kids and target young men, our study shows
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 18:47:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/junk-food-is-promoted-online-to-appeal-to-kids-and-target-young-men-our-study-shows-234285>
"The Australian government has been investigating whether we should ban
unhealthy food advertising online, and how it could work. In the United
Kingdom, a ban on unhealthy food and drink advertising online will start in
(More...)
Florida’s balloon ban will protect sea turtles, birds and other marine life
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 18:48:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/balloon-ban-environment-florida-sea-turtle-10c6e21aaf3baa9c340052d3f3b34dbd>
"TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Sea turtles, marine birds and children under 7 will
be protected under a new Florida law that bans the intentional release of
balloons.
(More...)
Why saline lakes are the canary in the coalmine for the world’s water resources
Mon, 5 Aug 2024 18:49:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-saline-lakes-are-the-canary-in-the-coalmine-for-the-worlds-water-resources-232477>
"When it comes to inland surface water bodies, saline lakes are unique. They
make up 44% of all lakes worldwide and are found on every continent including
Antarctica. These lakes’ existence depends on a delicate balance between a
(More...)
Freight operators will buy new diesel trains if governments don’t back green alternatives, industry says
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 04:14:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Why an ‘AI health coach’ won’t solve the world’s chronic disease problems
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 04:15:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-an-ai-health-coach-wont-solve-the-worlds-chronic-disease-problems-234369>
"Last week, two big names in the artificial intelligence (AI) and wellness
industries announced a collaboration to develop a “customised,
hyper-personalised AI health coach that will be available as a mobile app” to
(More...)
Puffin numbers up on Isle of May
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 04:16:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.birdguides.com/news/puffin-numbers-up-on-isle-of-may/
"Puffin numbers at one of the UK's largest colonies have increased by a third
since 2017.
(More...)
The return of Bladerunner the humpback and Split Fin the killer whale – a cautionary tale about seafaring vessels
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 04:17:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-return-of-bladerunner-the-humpback-and-split-fin-the-killer-whale-a-cautionary-tale-about-seafaring-vessels-234389>
"In the past few days, two well known survivors of the battle between marine
mammals and vessels have been spotted in Australian waters. I’m talking about
Bladerunner the humpback and Split Fin the killer whale. Both have become
(More...)
Nepal launches new plan to boost critically endangered Bengal florican
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 04:18:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2024/06/nepal-launches-new-plan-to-boost-critically-endangered-bengal-florican/>
"KATHMANDU — Nepal’s government has launched a new action plan for the
conservation of the critically endangered Bengal florican, a bird whose
population is declining amid mounting challenges across its range in the Indian
(More...)
‘One inch from a potential civil war’ – near miss in Trump shooting is also a close call for American democracy
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 04:19:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/one-inch-from-a-potential-civil-war-near-miss-in-trump-shooting-is-also-a-close-call-for-american-democracy-234628>
"With an assassination attempt on Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania on
July 13, 2024, the U.S. experienced another violent episode in its increasingly
polarized politics. Former President Trump, who’s about to formally become the
(More...)
Arctic 'dirty fuel' ban for ships comes into force
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 11:29:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpv3dk4ydr3o
"A ban on the dirtiest and most climate-damaging fuel for ships has come into
effect in Arctic waters.
(More...)
Scientists protest Toyota's hydrogen car for being too dirty
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 11:30:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/scientists-protest-toyotas-hydrogen-car-for-being-too-dirty>
"The Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle (FCEV) has been criticised by
scientists for not being clean enough to be called a true zero-emissions
vehicle.
(More...)
No room for nuclear power, unless the Coalition switches off your solar
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 11:31:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/no-room-for-nuclear-power-unless-the-coalition-switches-off-your-solar-234156>
"Before renewables came along, coal-fired power stations pumped out electricity
(and carbon emissions) 24 hours a day. But now, this type of “always on”
baseload power is no longer necessary or commercially viable.
(More...)
Mangrove reforestation to be initiated along 52 rivers and canals near Sundarbans
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 11:33:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/environment/mangrove-reforestation-be-initiated-along-52-rivers-and-canals-near>
"The Forest Department has undertaken a major initiative to restore mangrove
forests along the banks of 52 rivers and canals near the Sundarbans in Khulna.
(More...)
Landmark ruling in Suriname grants protections to local and Indigenous communities — for now
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 11:36:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2024/06/landmark-ruling-grants-protections-to-local-and-indigenous-communities-for-now/>
"A court in Suriname has halted development on hundreds of thousands of
hectares of Amazon Rainforest, much of it occupied by local and Indigenous
people. The landmark ruling could give new autonomy to native communities and
(More...)
Barbara Kingsolver on climate change: ‘Words are what I have to offer’
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 11:39:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://grist.org/culture/barbara-kingsolver-american-climate-corps-pledge/>
"Barbara Kingsolver has been weaving her concern about the environment into her
books ever since she started writing novels in 1988. Her 2012 novel
Flight
Behavior explored how climate change might affect the monarch butterfly, and
(More...)
Disney has a kid crisis
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 19:31:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.businessinsider.com/disney-kid-problem-cable-tv-decline-disney-channel-watching-youtube-2024-7>
'When Bob Iger returned to Disney in late 2022 for his second tour as CEO, the
company was in dire straits. It had just reported poor earnings, was scrambling
from unpopular business moves, and was left reeling from previous CEO Bob
(More...)
Ukraine receives nearly 6,000 solar panels to power hospitals
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 19:34:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-receives-nearly-6-000-solar-panels-to-power-hospitals/>
'Through an agreement with the European Commission, Ukraine has received 5,876
solar panels to help power hospitals across the country, Ukraine's Energy
Ministry announced to social media on July 2.
(More...)
Idiotfruit and tree kangaroos: here’s why the ancient rainforests of Queensland’s Wet Tropics are so distinctive
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 19:36:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/idiotfruit-and-tree-kangaroos-heres-why-the-ancient-rainforests-of-queenslands-wet-tropics-are-so-distinctive-228195>
"In Queensland’s northern reaches lie the Wet Tropics, spanning about 450
kilometres between Townsville and Cooktown. These mountainous rainforests are a
relic of the ancient continent of Gondwana, dating back million of years when
(More...)
Australia’s big banks lent $3.6bn to fossil fuel expansion projects in 2023, report shows
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 19:39:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/16/australias-big-banks-lent-36bn-to-fossil-fuel-expansion-projects-in-2023-report-shows>
"Australia’s big four banks are in “complete violation” of commitments to the
Paris climate accord by funding fossil fuel expansion even as their overall
lending to the sector continues to ebb, according to a new report.
(More...)
Climate in the courtroom: all sides are using ‘green lawfare’, and it’s good for democracy
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 19:42:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/climate-in-the-courtroom-all-sides-are-using-green-lawfare-and-its-good-for-democracy-234269>
"In recent weeks, the Menzies Research Centre, the Liberal party-aligned think
tank, has criticised the rise in “environmental lawfare”. National media
outlets duly took up the mantle.
(More...)
Underground cave found on moon could be ideal base for explorers
Tue, 6 Aug 2024 19:45:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/science/article/2024/jul/15/underground-cave-found-on-moon-could-be-ideal-base-for-explorers>
"Researchers have found evidence for a substantial underground cave on the moon
that is accessible from the surface, making the spot a prime location to build
a future lunar base.
(More...)
Letters from an American: July 15, 2024
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 03:30:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-15-2024
"This morning, after a day of Republicans insisting that it is political
polarization to suggest that Trump is a danger to our democracy, U.S. District
Judge Aileen Cannon, who was appointed by Trump in the last days of his
(More...)
Wole Soyinka at 90: writer and activist for justice
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 03:31:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/wole-soyinka-at-90-writer-and-activist-for-justice-234489>
"Akinwande Oluwole Soyinka, the legendary African author and activist, is proof
of what words and acts can achieve in the struggle for justice and human
rights. Soyinka, aged 90, embodies unrelenting activism and literary
(More...)
Solar bus shelters deliver clean power for electric transport
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 03:32:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/16/solar-bus-shelters-deliver-clean-power-for-electric-transport/>
"The local Australian subsidiary of Spanish clean energy company Iberdrola has
completed the installation of two solar bus shelters in Melbourne’s west, each
spanning over 65 metres in length and with a combined capacity of 65kW.
(More...)
Trump Allies Try to Bully Dems, Media to Shut Up About His Fascist Plans
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 03:34:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/trump-allies-fascist-plans-dems-media-1235060142/>
"As Donald Trump recovers from an assassination attempt and Republicans head to
Milwaukee for his coronation this week, the GOP elite has rallied around a new
messaging strategy: emotionally blackmailing Democratic politicians,
(More...)
We asked English footballers about the traumatic impact of racial abuse – their answers were sobering
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 03:35:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-asked-english-footballers-about-the-traumatic-impact-of-racial-abuse-their-answers-were-sobering-233754>
"Despite the disappointing outcome of the 2024 men’s Euros final for England,
it’s a relief that none of the team’s ethnic minority players could easily be
targeted for the result. However, the horrific racist abuse experienced by
(More...)
Half of petrol stations expected to close in next decade
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 03:36:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.dutchnews.nl/2024/07/half-of-petrol-stations-expected-to-close-in-next-decade/>
"Half of the Netherlands’ petrol stations are set to close in the next five to
10 years as electric cars start to take over the market, according to ING
Research.
(More...)
Diving with penguins: tech gives ocean scientists a bird’s-eye view of foraging in Antarctic waters
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 11:48:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/diving-with-penguins-tech-gives-ocean-scientists-a-birds-eye-view-of-foraging-in-antarctic-waters-233286>
"Chinstrap penguins are members of Antarctica’s brush-tailed group of penguins.
They’re easily identified by the feature that gives them their name – a black
strap that runs from ear to ear below the chin. The species is found mostly in
(More...)
Volvo Trucks have logged over 50 million battery electric miles (!)
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 11:49:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://electrek.co/2024/07/01/volvo-trucks-have-logged-over-50-million-battery-electric-miles/>
"Fifty million miles. Eighty million kilometers. Two thousand laps around Carl
Sagan’s pale blue dot. However you measure it, there’s no denying it: Volvo
Trucks have driven a whole lot of battery-electric miles!
(More...)
Gender apartheid: oppression of women should be made a crime against humanity – feminist academic explains why
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 11:49:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/gender-apartheid-oppression-of-women-should-be-made-a-crime-against-humanity-feminist-academic-explains-why-234410>
"Crimes against humanity are occurring with impunity around the globe; from
Myanmar to Sudan, Ukraine and elsewhere. And yet, unlike international treaties
for the crimes of genocide, torture, apartheid and forced disappearances, there
(More...)
Europe's Ariane-6 rocket blasts off on maiden flight
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 11:50:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c19km33k1mpo
'Europe's big new rocket, Ariane-6, has blasted off on its maiden flight.
The vehicle set off from a launchpad in French Guiana at 16:00 local time
(More...)
Puerto Rico files $1 billion suit against fossil fuel companies
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 11:51:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theverge.com/2024/7/16/24199686/puerto-rico-fossil-fuel-industry-lawsuit-climate-change>
"Puerto Rico filed suit against fossil fuel companies this week, alleging that
the oil and gas giants have misled the public about climate change and delayed
a transition to clean energy. The suit seeks $1 billion in damages to help
(More...)
Two Years of Amazing Images From the James Webb Space Telescope
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 11:52:38 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theatlantic.com/photo/2024/07/photos-webb-space-telescope-second-anniversary/679029/>
"Last week marked the second anniversary of when the first images were released
from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The telescope was launched in
December 2021 and remains in orbit around a point in space about 1 million
(More...)
Amazon deforestation cut by 83% in places protected by Indigenous communities – new research
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 19:26:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/amazon-deforestation-cut-by-83-in-places-protected-by-indigenous-communities-new-research-234433>
"Although deforestation rates in the Brazilian Amazon have halved, it is still
losing more than 5,000km² every year. That’s an area three times larger than
Greater London.
(More...)
A sovereign citizen group is using a fake court to justify child kidnapping and extortion
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 19:28:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-17/sovereign-citizen-fake-court-alleged-child-kidnapping/104085748>
'The logo on the official-looking letter was unfamiliar, but even before
opening it, Scott Murrin knew who it came from.
(More...)
‘Alien invasion’: researchers identify which exotic animals may soon hitchhike into Australia
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 19:29:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/alien-invasion-researchers-identify-which-exotic-animals-may-soon-hitchhike-into-australia-232317>
"Australia is renowned for its native flora and fauna, but did you know the
continent is also home to about 3,000 “alien” species of animals, plants, fungi
and microbes?
(More...)
NSW government says state’s biodiversity ‘in crisis’ as it pledges first steps to reverse decline
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 19:31:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/17/nsw-government-says-states-biodiversity-in-crisis-as-it-pledges-first-steps-to-reverse-decline>
"The New South Wales government says the state’s biodiversity is in crisis and
must be put on a path to recovery to reverse the decline of beloved species and
ecosystems.
(More...)
Economic Termites Are Everywhere
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 19:32:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.thebignewsletter.com/p/economic-termites-are-everywhere
"Today I want to start with a comment by a colleague, Texas antitrust lawyer
Basel Musharbash, observing a restaurant trying to do a renovation in Dallas.
“Something funky is happening in the building materials supply chain,” he wrote
(More...)
Not just space rocks: 6 things we’ve learned about Earth from meteorites and comets
Wed, 7 Aug 2024 19:33:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/not-just-space-rocks-6-things-weve-learned-about-earth-from-meteorites-and-comets-229288>
"Apart from the Sun, its planets and their moons, our Solar System has vast
amounts of space rocks – fragments left over from the formation of the inner
planets.
(More...)
Academic journals are a lucrative scam – and we’re determined to change that
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 05:01:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/jul/16/academic-journal-publishers-universities-price-subscriptions?trk=feed_main-feed-card_feed-article-content>
"If you’ve ever read an academic article, the chances are that you were
unwittingly paying tribute to a vast profit-generating machine that exploits
the free labour of researchers and siphons off public funds.
(More...)
Royal visits to Australia can be disaster magnets. In the first one, the prince barely made it out alive
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 05:02:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/royal-visits-to-australia-can-be-disaster-magnets-in-the-first-one-the-prince-barely-made-it-out-alive-233103>
"It’s official: the royals are returning down under. King Charles and Queen
Camilla are scheduled to visit Australia and Samoa in October, attending events
in Canberra and New South Wales (with more details to come).
(More...)
Rare examples of 17th-century paper-cutting ‘saved from skip’ to go on display
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 05:04:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/article/2024/jul/16/rare-find-17th-century-paper-cutting-sutton-house-london?CMP=twt_a-culture_b-gdnculture>
"Rare examples of 17th-century decorative paper-cutting found amid debris at a
historic house in east London that was part of what was known as “the ladies’
university” are to go on display.
(More...)
Critics are calling MONA ‘childish’, but history shows us how much the public love an art forger
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 05:05:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/critics-are-calling-mona-childish-but-history-shows-us-how-much-the-public-love-an-art-forger-234684>
"Art forgery is a devilish attempt to deceive its audience.
Experts’ negative reaction to Kirsha Kaechele’s admission she forged the three
(More...)
Blackouts, bankruptcy and “bugger off Bowen” posters: Ted O’Brien’s dystopian and error riddled energy vision
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 05:07:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/blackouts-bankruptcy-and-bugger-off-bowen-posters-ted-obriens-dystopian-and-error-riddled-energy-vision/>
"Well, he is stubborn, and he’s not afraid of a hostile audience. Those were
two of the immediate and more polite reactions at the Australian Clean Energy
Summit on Wednesday when Opposition energy spokesperson Ted O’Brien laid out
(More...)
Bowen says asking Australia to go nuclear is like asking the Swiss to take up surfing
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 05:08:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/bowen-says-asking-australia-to-go-nuclear-is-like-asking-the-swiss-to-take-up-surfing/>
"Federal energy minister Chris Bowen has again attacked the federal Coalition’s
nuclear power policy, saying it is not compatible with renewables in
Australia’s grid and comparing it to asking the Swiss to take up surfing.
(More...)
‘I don’t really care what happens to Ukraine’: what a JD Vance vice presidency could mean for the world
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 11:33:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/i-dont-really-care-what-happens-to-ukraine-what-a-jd-vance-vice-presidency-could-mean-for-the-world-234815>
"After months of gamesmanship and speculation, JD Vance has emerged as Donald
Trump’s 2024 running mate and the heir apparent to the America First movement.
(More...)
Can AI help boost accessibility? These researchers tested it for themselves
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 11:34:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.washington.edu/news/2023/11/02/ai-accessibility-chatgpt-midjourney-ableist/>
"Generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, an AI-powered language
tool, and Midjourney, an AI-powered image generator, can potentially assist
people with various disabilities. These tools could summarize content, compose
(More...)
How sustainable is your weekly grocery shop? These small changes can have big benefits
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 11:35:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-sustainable-is-your-weekly-grocery-shop-these-small-changes-can-have-big-benefits-234367>
"You might think eating more sustainably requires drastic changes, such as
shifting to a vegan diet. While a plant-based diet is undeniably good for the
Earth, our new research shows modest changes to your eating habits can also
(More...)
Beyond the Barrier Reef: Australia’s 3 other World Heritage reefs are also in trouble
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 11:35:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/beyond-the-barrier-reef-australias-3-other-world-heritage-reefs-are-also-in-trouble-234268>
"The Great Barrier Reef is world famous – it’s the largest coral reef system in
the world and home to tens of thousands of species. No wonder it is World
Heritage listed.
(More...)
A Dose of Inspiration: Why Doctors Are Prescribing Museum Visits
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 11:36:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/a-dose-of-inspiration-why-doctors-are-prescribing-museum-visits/>
"For more than a decade, the French city of Lille’s Palais des Beaux-Arts —
which was inaugurated in 1892 and is home to France’s second largest collection
behind only the Louvre — has deployed a kind of “museo-therapy” that uses the
(More...)
The global food system is owned by an ever smaller number of companies – it’s damaging our health, our communities and the planet
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 11:37:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-global-food-system-is-owned-by-an-ever-smaller-number-of-companies-its-damaging-our-health-our-communities-and-the-planet-232414>
"Across the world, over 800 million people spend their days hungry. More than 2
billion have limited access to food. Yet today’s global food system produces
enough to feed every person on the planet.
(More...)
Solar Parking Lot
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 20:51:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.zeoluff.com/solar-parking-lot
"Transform your parking area into a sustainable powerhouse with our
cutting-edge Solar Parking System. Designed to maximize energy efficiency, this
eco-friendly solution not only slashes electricity costs but also significantly
(More...)
Taming the machine: should the technological revolution be regulated – and can it be?
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 20:53:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Renewables caught in misinformation crossfire from Australia’s nuclear cheerleaders
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 20:55:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/18/renewables-caught-in-misinformation-crossfire-from-australias-nuclear-cheerleaders>
"Advocacy for the Coalition’s hopes to build nuclear power plants is
increasingly coming with large side-orders of misinformation, not just on the
speed or costs of nuclear but on renewables.
(More...)
We have too few aged care workers to care for older Australians. Why? And what can we do about it?
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 20:56:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-have-too-few-aged-care-workers-to-care-for-older-australians-why-and-what-can-we-do-about-it-232707>
"In a country like Australia, we all expect that when we get old, we’ll be able
to rely on a robust aged care system. But aged care providers can’t find staff
and a crisis is brewing.
(More...)
Our cities’ secret gardens: we connect with nature in neglected green spaces just as much as in parks
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 20:56:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/our-cities-secret-gardens-we-connect-with-nature-in-neglected-green-spaces-just-as-much-as-in-parks-233351>
"Access to nature is essential for our health and wellbeing. However, as our
cities become increasingly crowded, it becomes more and more challenging to
find ways to connect with nature in urban spaces.
(More...)
Let there be night: digital billboards to be turned off to curb light pollution under Melbourne city proposal
Thu, 8 Aug 2024 20:57:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/18/let-there-be-night-digital-billboards-to-be-turned-off-to-curb-light-pollution-under-melbourne-city-proposal>
"Large digital billboards could be turned off late at night under a proposal by
Melbourne city council to crack down on light pollution and reduce its health
and environmental impacts.
(More...)
Why I’m Advising My Children to Plan on Leaving the United States
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 05:13:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:https://medium.com/minds-without-borders/why-im-advising-my-children-to-plan-on-leaving-the-united-states-dac0e1a5dd64>
"I expect that there will be an exodus of young and talented people from the
United States. Why should they remain in a place where they are unappreciated,
ignored and denied any chance at prosperity? It takes a long time to change a
(More...)
Foxx Nolte's "Hidden History of Walt Disney World"
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 05:16:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://pluralistic.net/2024/07/15/disnefried/#dialectics
'No one writes about Disney theme parks like Foxx Nolte; no one rises above the
trivia and goes beyond the mere sleuthing of historical facts, no one
nails
the essence of what makes these parks work – and fail.
(More...)
How The Other EV Transition — To E-bikes — Is Changing The World
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 05:17:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2024/07/17/how-the-other-ev-transition-to-e-bikes-is-changing-the-world/>
"One of the most important transitions taking place today in technology is the
shift to electric vehicles (EVs). Most attention is focused on electric cars.
That’s in part because they are big glamorous items, and they have high-profile
(More...)
Peter Dutton wants a social media ban. April thinks it is a bad idea
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 05:18:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.smh.com.au/national/peter-dutton-wants-a-social-media-ban-april-thinks-it-is-a-bad-idea-20240717-p5juc1.html>
"Three of Australia’s largest mental health organisations are pushing back
against bipartisan support for an outright ban on social media for people under
16, arguing it risks alienating young people and ignores some of its benefits.
(More...)
Is Australia becoming a dumping ground for unrepairable appliances?
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 05:19:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/is-australia-becoming-a-dumping-ground-for-unrepairable-appliances-232266>
"Australians have a love affair with household appliances. The national
household appliance market is projected to reach A$13 billion in 2024 – a
figure that grows each year.
(More...)
Apparel industry leaks millions of tons of plastic into environment each year, study finds
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 05:20:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://phys.org/news/2024-07-apparel-industry-leaks-millions-tons.html
'A study has found that waste from the global apparel industry is leaking
millions of tons of plastic into the environment each year—an overlooked
pollution source which may be getting worse over time.
(More...)
Renewable hydrogen: Superpower, or green mask for fossil super villains?
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 12:52:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/renewable-hydrogen-superpower-or-green-mask-for-fossil-super-villains/>
"My children are aged three and four. They love anything with super powers –
Spiderman, vampires, Paw Patrol, everything.
(More...)
Nuclear power plan puts thousands of farms in “radiation alert zone”
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 12:54:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/nuclear-power-plan-puts-thousands-of-farms-in-radiation-alert-zone/>
"Nuclear energy threatens Australia’s food production with more than 11,000
farms near the opposition’s proposed reactor sites, the government says.
(More...)
In landmark ruling, South Korea's top court confirms state benefits for gay couples
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 12:55:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-koreas-top-court-upholds-landmark-ruling-over-same-sex-spousal-state-2024-07-18/>
'SEOUL, July 18 (Reuters) - South Korea's supreme court on Thursday upheld a
ruling that a same-sex partner was eligible for spousal benefits from state
health insurance, a move hailed as a win for LGBTQ rights in a country that has
(More...)
False divisions and dubious equivalencies: Children’s rights during the COVID-19 pandemic
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 12:57:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.manchesterhive.com/display/9781526170149/9781526170149.00009.xml?chapterBody=fulltext>
"This chapter examines the causes and consequences of the current crisis in
children’s rights during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically how and why
children’s fundamental rights to life, health, and safety are besieged in the
(More...)
This LA Restaurant Serves Up Empowerment for Refugees
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 12:58:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/flavors-from-afar-refugee-empowerment/
"Jamie Lauren makes five-star cooking look easy. With a trained hand, the chef
adds two eggs and olive oil to the flour, kneads the pasta dough into a pliable
ball and shows it to her eager trainees: “Touch it! You must feel it!”
(More...)
Bob Newhart, sitcom pioneer and beloved 'Elf' actor, dies at 94
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 12:59:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/bob-newhart-everyman-comic-elevated-sitcom-art-form-dies-94-rcna41588>
"Bob Newhart, the former accountant who rose to comedy superstardom with a
mathematical precision in timing a deadpan routine down to a decimal point,
died Thursday, according to his publicist.
(More...)
Nature’s Recyclers: Can Bacteria and Fungi Win the War on Plastic?
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 18:58:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pgsignal.com/2024/04/08/natures-recyclers-can-bacteria-and-fungi-win-the-war-on-plastic/>
"What if we could find a germ that broke down our plastic waste into tiny
building blocks that could be reassembled and recycled again and again,
allowing us never to produce another ounce of new plastic again?
(More...)
HMD Skyline: A New Twist on Repairable Smartphone Design
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 19:01:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.ifixit.com/News/97701/hmd-skyline-a-new-twist-on-repairable-smartphone-design>
"HMD is bringing camshaft technology to smartphones.
Yes, you read that right. As recently as a week ago, if you’d told us 2024 will
(More...)
10,000 trees illegally cut down as Aussies fall for firewood scam
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 19:02:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://au.news.yahoo.com/10000-trees-illegally-cut-down-as-aussies-fall-for-firewood-scam-073123146.html>
'As cost of living bites and Australia’s east coast experiences freezing
weather conditions, close to 10,000 trees have been illegally felled in one
state. Authorities suspect many of the logs have been sold to unsuspecting
(More...)
From Nazi bunker to hipster hub
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 19:04:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.ft.com/content/f5887242-20c8-499b-9740-4d47af5e54b9
"It’s not often I get to stay in a city hotel bristling with lightning
conductors for fear of forest fire. Or in whose eighth floor room I feel
impelled to draw the curtains, lest I provide involuntary entertainment for
(More...)
Watch Chatty Beluga Families Migrate With These Stunning Live Cams in Canada
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 19:05:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/watch-chatty-beluga-families-migrate-with-these-stunning-live-cams-in-canada-180984720/>
"Here’s a summer “staycation” idea: From the comfort of your own home, you can
watch—and listen to—tens of thousands of beluga whales as they make their
annual migration to Hudson Bay and the Churchill River in Canada.
(More...)
How a century-old drug could revolutionise cobra bite treatment
Fri, 9 Aug 2024 19:06:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-a-century-old-drug-could-revolutionise-cobra-bite-treatment-234277>
"About 1.8 million people worldwide are bitten by snakes each year. Of those,
up to 138,000 die and another 400,000 end up with permanent scarring and
disability.
(More...)
Domestic violence perpetrators could be tracked by specialised agency, Australian crime institute says
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 03:19:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/19/domestic-violence-perpetrators-could-be-tracked-by-specialised-agency-australian-institute-says>
"Domestic violence perpetrators should be treated like “fixated persons”,
similar to violent extremists and stalkers targeting politicians, according to
an expert government body tasked with seeking a solution to the intimate
(More...)
Sharehousing can be fun, but fraught with risk – and the law offers little protection. These 3 changes could help
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 03:20:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sharehousing-can-be-fun-but-fraught-with-risk-and-the-law-offers-little-protection-these-3-changes-could-help-234482>
"Anyone who’s lived in a sharehouse knows it only takes one person to send the
household off the rails. Everyone’s life is affected when one housemate leaves
out food, plays loud music all night or routinely uses all the hot water.
(More...)
Scholars: AI isn’t “hallucinating” — it’s bullshitting
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 03:22:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.psypost.org/scholars-ai-isnt-hallucinating-its-bullshitting/
"Large language models, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, have revolutionized the way
artificial intelligence interacts with humans, producing text that often seems
indistinguishable from human writing. Despite their impressive capabilities,
(More...)
Junicode: the font for mediaevalists
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 03:26:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://psb1558.github.io/Junicode-font/
"Junicode 2 is a major reworking of the widely used font for students and
scholars of medieval Europe (though it also serves scholars in a number of
other disciplines). This version continues to track the development of the
(More...)
Letters from an American: July 18, 2024
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 03:29:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-18-2024
"Paul Manafort walking onto the floor of the Republican National Convention
yesterday illustrated that the Republican Party under Trump has become
thoroughly corrupted into an authoritarian party aligned with foreign
(More...)
The unexpected poetry of PhD acknowledgements
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 03:30:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://science.anu.edu.au/news-events/news/unexpected-poetry-phd-acknowledgements>
"Not many people will read your PhD thesis, but if you completed your doctoral
research at the Australian National University College of Science, then Tabitha
Carvan has probably read one small part of it.
(More...)
Does history have lessons for the future? Roman Krznaric looks to the past to discover the rules for radical hope
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 12:12:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Doomscrolling linked to existential anxiety, distrust, suspicion and despair, study finds
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 12:13:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/article/2024/jul/19/doomscrolling-linked-to-existential-anxiety-distrust-suspicion-and-despair-study-finds>
"Does scrolling your phone give you an existential crisis? That’s the question
a team of international experts have sought to answer in a study published in
the
Journal of Computers in Human Behavior Reports.
(More...)
Methane emissions are the low-hanging fruit of the climate transition
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 12:15:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/methane-emissions-are-the-low-hanging-fruit-of-the-climate-transition-230167>
"Methane is well known for coming from ruminants digestive system. What is less
known is its important role in current climate change and what we could do to
drastically reduce our emissions.
(More...)
Australia’s $50,000 arts degree is here – putting university fees on par with the UK and US
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 12:16:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/19/australia-hecs-fee-help-scheme-50000-arts-degree>
"There was a time when would-be poets, historians and writers could expect to
pay off an arts degree at an Australian university within the decade, if they
were able to find stable employment. Fast forward to now and they may die with
(More...)
DRC conflict risks spreading: African leaders must push for solutions beyond military intervention
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 12:17:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/drc-conflict-risks-spreading-african-leaders-must-push-for-solutions-beyond-military-intervention-234693>
"In response to the deepening crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
(DRC), the United Nations Security Council established a panel of independent
experts in 2023 to examine the situation and provide it with options to address
(More...)
The End and Everything Before It by Finegan Kruckemeyer review – a dreamy alternative to the world we live in
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 12:19:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/books/article/2024/jul/19/the-end-and-everything-before-it-by-finegan-kruckemeyer-review-a-dreamy-alternative-to-the-world-we-live-in>
"A locked chest sits at the end of a jetty in a small island town. The key to
open it lies on a nearby bench. The town’s citizens believe the chest to be
full of valuable coins. Should they open it? After deliberating, they come to
(More...)
A Trump-Vance White House could undermine European security – and end up pushing Russia and China closer
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 19:32:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-trump-vance-white-house-could-undermine-european-security-and-end-up-pushing-russia-and-china-closer-234933>
"Donald Trump’s choice of Ohio senator J.D. Vance as his running mate in the
presidential election has reignited European fears of American abandonment.
Vance is known for his opposition to aid for Ukraine and his almost singular
(More...)
Stoltenberg assures EU that Nato would survive second Trump presidency
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 19:35:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/18/stoltenberg-assures-eu-that-nato-would-survive-second-trump-presidency>
"Europe must not fall into the trap of creating a “self-fulfilling prophecy”
that Nato would die under a second Trump presidency and that the transatlantic
bond would be over, the secretary general of the military alliance has said.
(More...)
Long COVID puzzle pieces are falling into place – the picture is unsettling
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 19:36:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/long-covid-puzzle-pieces-are-falling-into-place-the-picture-is-unsettling-233759>
"Since 2020, the condition known as long COVID-19 has become a widespread
disability affecting the health and quality of life of millions of people
across the globe and costing economies billions of dollars in reduced
(More...)
Uber told to pay banned Sydney driver $10,000 after failing to prove passenger’s complaint
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 19:37:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/article/2024/jul/19/uber-told-to-pay-banned-sydney-driver-10000-after-failing-to-prove-passengers-complaint>
"Uber has been ordered to pay $10,000 in damages to an Australian driver after
it permanently banned him from working due to a passenger complaint but failed
to gather evidence that he had breached its code of conduct.
(More...)
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon star Cheng Pei-pei dies at 78
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 19:38:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn38jrnp9jeo
"China-born actress Cheng Pei-pei, who starred in Oscar-winning film
Crouching
Tiger, Hidden Dragon, has died in San Francisco at the age of 78.
(More...)
Strong progress – from a low base: here’s what’s in NSW’s biodiversity reforms
Sat, 10 Aug 2024 19:39:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/strong-progress-from-a-low-base-heres-whats-in-nsws-biodiversity-reforms-234917>
"The laws designed to protect the environment in New South Wales are completely
ineffective, according to the scathing Henry Review in 2023.
(More...)
Egypt discovers underwater royal tombs
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 03:23:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.egyptindependent.com/egypt-discovers-underwater-royal-tombs/
"A joint Egyptian-French archaeological mission, composed of the Supreme
Council of Antiquities and Paul Valéry University Montpellier, has uncovered a
group of paintings, inscriptions, and miniature images of ancient kings,
(More...)
Top UN court says Israel’s presence in occupied Palestinian territories is illegal and should end
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 03:26:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/icj-court-israel-palestinians-settlements-2d5178500c0410341b252335859f2316>
"THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — The top United Nations court said Friday that
Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territories is unlawful and
called on it to end, and for settlement construction to stop immediately,
(More...)
NASA’s Curiosity Rover Uncovers Trove of Yellow Crystals on Mars
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 03:27:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://gizmodo.com/nasas-curiosity-rover-uncovers-trove-of-yellow-crystals-on-mars-2000476772>
"For nearly 10 years, NASA’s four-wheeled robot has been climbing the foothills
of Mount Sharp, a tall mountain on Mars that stands above an ancient crater,
uncovering mysteries with each of its layers. In its latest discovery, the
(More...)
What to Know about Project 2025’s Dangers to Science
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 03:29:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/project-2025-plan-for-trump-presidency-has-far-reaching-threats-to-science/>
"Project 2025, the sweeping right-wing blueprint for a new kind of U.S.
presidency, would sabotage science-based policies that address climate change,
the environment, abortion, health care access, technology and education. It
(More...)
"Weird Al" Yankovic - Polkamania! (Official Music Video)
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 03:30:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Yes, we are a more equal society than most, but not quite as mobile as the Productivity Commission suggests. Here’s why
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 03:31:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/yes-we-are-a-more-equal-society-than-most-but-not-quite-as-mobile-as-the-productivity-commission-suggests-heres-why-234804>
"If you listened to the Productivity Commission, you would think Australia was
a pretty equal place in terms of income and wealth, and particularly good in
terms of equality of opportunity.
(More...)
Nauru detainee speaks out as new boat arrivals near 100
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 13:01:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-19/nauru-detainee-speaks-as-new-boat-arrivals-near-100/104114852>
'The number of refugees being held on Nauru has increased sixfold in six
months, raising questions about the future of the detention centre that was
empty at one stage last year.
(More...)
The simple Japanese method for a tidier and less wasteful fridge
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 13:02:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240715-the-simple-japanese-method-for-a-tidier-and-less-wasteful-fridge>
'Have you ever opened your refrigerator and felt a surge of anxiety? Perhaps
you struggled to find anything to actually eat amid an excessive jumble of
jams, pickles, spreads and half-empty condiments. Or you found yourself
(More...)
‘The day it goes wrong? We won’t know about it … ’: life next door to a nuclear power station
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 13:03:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/article/2024/jul/20/the-day-it-goes-wrong-we-wont-know-about-it-life-next-door-to-a-nuclear-power-station>
"Rain or shine, Christiane Lamiraud, 63, likes to swim in the Channel from the
beach near her home in the village of Saint-Martin-en-Campagne, north-east of
Dieppe. From the water, it is hard to miss the Penly nuclear power station just
(More...)
Friday essay: public ‘pash ons’ and angry dads – personal politics started with consciousness-raising feminists. Now, everyone’s doing it
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 13:05:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-public-pash-ons-and-angry-dads-personal-politics-started-with-consciousness-raising-feminists-now-everyones-doing-it-232526>
"On March 17–18 1973, more than 600 women gathered in Sydney for a “Women’s
Commission”. Speaking to broad themes such as motherhood, work and sexism,
dozens of women recounted their struggles: to obtain contraception, or a decent
(More...)
Coal-filled trains are likely sending people to the hospital
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 13:06:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://arstechnica.com/science/2024/07/coal-pollution-is-killing-people-even-when-were-not-burning-it/>
'Although US coal consumption has fallen dramatically since 2005, the country
still consumes millions of tons a year, and exports tons more—much of it
transported by train. Now, new research shows that these trains can affect the
(More...)
World’s rarest whale may have washed up on New Zealand beach
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 13:07:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/16/lo-and-behold-worlds-rarest-whale-may-have-washed-up-on-new-zealand-beach>
"A carcass found washed up on a beach in New Zealand may be that of the world’s
rarest whale, scientists have said. Spade-toothed whales are a type of beaked
whale named for their teeth resembling the spade-like “flensing” blade once
(More...)
‘Nobody is coming to help us’: Afghan teenage girls on life without school
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 19:27:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/article/2024/jun/14/nobody-is-coming-to-help-us-afghan-teenage-girls-on-life-without-school>
"Just over three years ago, Asma’s* future contained many possibilities. Aged
15, she was at secondary school. After that lay the prospect of university and
then onwards, striding forwards into the rest of her life.
(More...)
Hundreds of racist plant names will change after historic vote by botanists
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 19:31:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/pwWIv
"For the first time, researchers have voted to eliminate scientific names of
organisms because they are offensive. Botanists decided that more than 200
plants, fungi and algae species names should no longer contain a racial slur
(More...)
Contempt, gagging and UN intervention: inside the UK’s wildest climate trial
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 19:33:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/12/contempt-gagging-un-intervention-uk-wildest-climate-trial-just-stop-oil>
"As part of his role as UN rapporteur for environmental defenders, Michel Forst
has been watching proceedings against climate activists at courts across
Europe.
(More...)
Scientists Put Prisoners In A Luxury 5-Star Prison, This Is What Happened
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 19:38:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
A record sentence for a Zoom call, arrests for those holding signs outside. This is a blight on British democracy
Sun, 11 Aug 2024 19:40:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/jul/19/protest-democracy-labour-tories-laws>
"How do you know when protest tactics are working? When governments ban them.
The oppressive laws introduced by the previous government – the Police, Crime,
Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 and the Public Order Act 2023 – are a tick list
(More...)
Microsoft outage: how Australian airports, banks and supermarkets were affected by major IT meltdown
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:38:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/19/microsoft-outage-australian-airports-banks-and-supermarkets-affected-by-windows-meltdown>
"The Australian government has warned a global IT outage that threw major
businesses including airports, banks, supermarkets and media outlets into chaos
on Friday could still take “some time to resolve”.
(More...)
Bega's bid to become a circular economy to reduce waste
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:41:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-21/bega-circular-economy-renewable-target-sustainable-waste/104108834>
'Bega will become Australia's most circular economy by 2030 if ambitious
Australian businessman Barry Irvin has his way.
(More...)
‘Cutest animal in Australia’: keeping watch over greater gliders in a forest targeted for logging
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:42:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
AI does stand-up: ‘cruise ship comedy material from the 1950s, but a bit less racist’
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:44:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pivot-to-ai.com/2024/07/14/ai-does-stand-up-cruise-ship-comedy-material-from-the-1950s-but-a-bit-less-racist/>
"Google DeepMind went to Edinburgh Fringe in August 2023 to see how twenty
working stand-up comedians could use large language models. It didn’t work out
so well:
(More...)
Slow recovery from IT outage begins as experts warn of future risks
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:45:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/19/microsoft-windows-pcs-outage-blue-screen-of-death>
"Services began to come back online on Friday evening after an IT failure that
wreaked havoc worldwide. But full recovery could take weeks, experts have said,
after airports, healthcare services and businesses were hit by the “largest
(More...)
ChatGPT predicts tremendous role for ChatGPT in UK government
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:46:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pivot-to-ai.com/2024/07/16/chatgpt-predicts-tremendous-role-for-chatgpt-in-uk-government/>
"The Tony Blair Institute is the think tank run by the former Prime Minister of
the UK, Tony Blair. The TBI makes $140 million a year consulting for
governments. The
Guardian called the TBI “one of the architects of Starmerite
(More...)
‘I thought, I’ll show you guys’: eye-popping artist Lesley Dumbrell finally gets her due at 82
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:53:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/article/2024/jul/20/lesley-dumbrell-thrum-art-gallery-of-nsw>
"As a young art student at Melbourne’s RMIT at the end of the 1950s, Lesley
Dumbrell was among a cohort of mostly women, contemplating a profession that
was dominated by men. Even so, she was shocked when the head of the painting
(More...)
‘Sex bubbles’: Why Victorians should keep a list of their sex partners
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:54:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/sex-bubbles-why-victorians-should-keep-a-list-of-their-sex-partners-20240717-p5jugz.html>
"The state’s chief health officer is urging Victorians to create “sex bubbles”
and maintain contact details of all their sexual partners to curb an outbreak
of mpox.
(More...)
Chocolate House UP in the sky!
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:55:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnlUaMOv374
"One of my most challenging creations yet, it required a lots of patience! This
chocolate masterpiece, inspired by the iconic house lifted in the sky, features
five different fruit-flavored chocolate bonbons, Lemon, Mandarin, Raspberry,
(More...)
Proton Mail goes AI, security-focused userbase goes ‘what on earth’
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:57:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pivot-to-ai.com/2024/07/18/proton-mail-goes-ai-security-focused-userbase-goes-what-on-earth/>
"If an organization runs a survey in 2024 on whether it should get into AI,
then they’ve already bodged an LLM into the system and they’re seeing if they
can get away with it.
(More...)
The Real Money In Modern ‘Journalism’ Now Involves Filling The Internet With ‘AI’-Generated Garbage
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:58:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2024/07/18/the-real-money-in-modern-journalism-now-involves-filling-the-internet-with-ai-generated-garbage/>
"Last year both
Gannett and
Sports Illustrated were caught creating fake,
“AI” generated journalists to create fake, plagiarism and mistake-prone
“journalism.” In both instances the kind of brunchlord executives that fail
(More...)
Fight or Flee: Tuvalu’s residents prepare for mass displacement as nation forecast to be among first to disappear due to climate change
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:59:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sustainability/tuvalu-pacific-islands-migration-mass-displacement-climate-change-4437421>
"FUNAFUTI, Tuvalu: As the ocean grew dark and violent, lashing at the exposed
shoreline, Ms Gitty Yee grabbed her camera and ran out towards the maelstrom.
(More...)
Renewables crucial for green steel, but policy must call time on coal-fired furnaces
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:50:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/renewables-crucial-for-green-steel-but-policy-must-call-time-on-coal-fired-furnaces/>
"Steelmaking needs to be electrified, investors warn, but that requires
governments to commit to the end of coal-fired blast furnaces.
(More...)
WTF Quora: how a platform eats itself
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:51:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/westenberg/wtf-quora-how-a-platform-eats-itself-41a4cb8aa392>
"Quora had a simple premise: it would be a place to share knowledge and
expertise, where curious minds could pose questions on any topic imaginable and
receive thoughtful, well-informed answers from the platform’s erudite
(More...)
Need a new outfit? Try the library.
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:52:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://grist.org/looking-forward/need-a-new-outfit-try-the-library/
"At a library in Dover, New Hampshire, earlier this year, the shelves of books
and CDs typically available for lending were accompanied by something else —
racks of clothes. Every Sunday and Monday from December through mid-January,
(More...)
27 States Let Utilities Shut Off Electricity for Nonpayment During Heat Waves
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:53:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://truthout.org/articles/27-states-let-utilities-shut-off-electricity-for-nonpayment-during-heat-waves/>
"Coast to coast, millions of Americans are experiencing sweltering temperatures
this summer, with seemingly little relief in sight. For people who struggle to
access or afford air conditioning, the rising need for cooling is a growing
(More...)
China is installing the wind and solar equivalent of five large nuclear power stations per week
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:54:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2024-07-16/chinas-renewable-energy-boom-breaks-records/104086640>
'While Australia debates the merits of going nuclear and frustration grows over
the slower-than-needed rollout of solar and wind power, China is going all in
on renewables.
(More...)
The 'This Is Not What We Were Promised' Stage Of Covid
Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:55:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.donotpanic.news/p/the-this-is-not-what-we-were-promised
"We can never let physical reality do the hard work of advocacy.
But sometimes, the physical reality helps push the advocacy along.
(More...)
"Duct Tape" - Funky Times feat. Philip Lassiter
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:43:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCrPIPpBG-g
'We're so happy to share with you the music video of "Duct Tape"! We've written
it as an instrumental quite some time ago and then asked Philip to record some
trumpets over it, but he just came up with lyrics for the whole thing! 😅 (Our
(More...)
Putting design first: six social housing projects from around the world
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:44:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/article/2024/jul/20/putting-design-first-six-social-housing-projects-from-around-the-world>
"The social housing of last century often calls to mind towering blocks of
flats, poorly maintained with dark, pokey and cold units. But alongside a rise
in community living, the 21st century has brought quality construction,
(More...)
Sportswashing is just about everywhere – but it may be backfiring on the countries that do it
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:44:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sportswashing-is-just-about-everywhere-but-it-may-be-backfiring-on-the-countries-that-do-it-234810>
"Sportswashing – the act of aligning with an athlete, sports team, or event in
order to distract from unethical practices elsewhere – is driven by
authoritarian states and is just about everywhere.
(More...)
Draft Israeli law to limit academic speech labelled ‘McCarthyite’
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:45:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/21/draft-israeli-law-to-limit-academic-speech-labelled-mccarthyite>
"Israel’s education minister and the country’s national union of students are
backing a draft law to limit academic speech in the country, which the heads of
leading universities have attacked as “McCarthyite” and fundamentally
(More...)
Stepping stones for wildlife: how linking up isolated habitats can help nature thrive in our cities
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:46:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/stepping-stones-for-wildlife-how-linking-up-isolated-habitats-can-help-nature-thrive-in-our-cities-234923>
"Imagine you’re a fairywren living in a patch of scrub behind a schoolyard in
the suburbs. It’s been pretty nice so far, but a recent increase in
neighbourhood cats and the council’s insect control tactics mean it’s time to
(More...)
“During the Pandemic” is Now: Why E&W Still Has a COVID Policy
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:47:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.eveningsandweekendsconsulting.com/post/during-the-pandemic-is-now-why-evenings-weekends-still-has-a-covid-policy>
"There is a lot of misinformation about COVID. This preventable disease still
racks up thousands of cases a week, yet our public health institutions and
governments have all but eliminated their response.
(More...)
Journalists in Indonesia are being killed, threatened and jailed. A new draft law could make things even worse
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:40:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/journalists-in-indonesia-are-being-killed-threatened-and-jailed-a-new-draft-law-could-make-things-even-worse-234564>
"At dawn on June 27, a journalist for Indonesia’s
Tribrata TV, Rico Sempurna
Pasaribu, was killed in a suspected arson attack at his home, along with his
wife, son and grandchild.
(More...)
‘Our lives are shattered’: Teachers’ legal fight for long Covid support
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:41:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://inews.co.uk/news/teachers-legal-fight-long-covid-support-3144937
"Hundreds of teachers with long Covid are suing the Department for Education
(DfE) over its handling of the pandemic within schools, i can reveal.
(More...)
The first published results from Juukan Gorge show 47,000 years of Aboriginal heritage was destroyed in mining blast
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:42:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-first-published-results-from-juukan-gorge-show-47-000-years-of-aboriginal-heritage-was-destroyed-in-mining-blast-234806>
"In May 2020, as part of a legally permitted expansion of an iron ore mine, Rio
Tinto destroyed an ancient rockshelter at Juukan Gorge in Puutu Kunti Kurrama
Country in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
(More...)
A provocative new book about public health and Covid-19, reviewed by Ashley Bloomfield
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:43:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thespinoff.co.nz/books/17-07-2024/wisdom-for-the-world-we-live-in-within-reason-reviewed-by-sir-ashley-bloomfield>
"
The director of New Zealand’s Covid-19 response reviews Within Reason: A
Liberal Public Health for an Illiberal Time by Sandro Galea.
(More...)
A global IT outage brought supply chains to their knees – we need to be better prepared next time
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:44:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-global-it-outage-brought-supply-chains-to-their-knees-we-need-to-be-better-prepared-next-time-235124>
"Friday’s global IT outage – caused by a faulty software update from
cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike – wrought havoc on business operations around
the world.
(More...)
If Earth’s ecosystem was a company, Climate Ltd would have a problem
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:45:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.afr.com/companies/energy/if-earth-s-ecosystem-was-a-company-climate-ltd-would-have-a-problem-20240719-p5jv17>
"This year brings another wake-up call on climate change. After the hottest
year in history, global temperatures exceeded 1.5°C of warming for 12 months in
a row to June. Add this to the myriad of extreme temperature, drought, fire,
(More...)
Op shops give away clothes as surging donations put pressure on global fabric recycling system
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 22:49:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-22/pressure-on-fabric-recycling-system-and-local-op-shops/104103836>
'Op-shop operators are worried they will need to spend more money sending
donated clothes to landfill as fabric recycling firms abroad hit capacity.
(More...)
How pro-LGBTQ+ is Kamala Harris?
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 22:50:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.advocate.com/politics/kamala-harris-lgbtq-record
"Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to be the Democratic presidential
nominee now that President Joe Biden has exited the race and has endorsed her.
She brings a long and strong record of support for LGBTQ+ equality,
(More...)
Such A Loser by Garfunkel and Oates
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 22:52:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_JI5cqakIU
"An anthem for people who try. We uploaded this a while ago but it disappeared
so here it is again. We hope it inspires you."
(More...)
Compulsory voting in Australia is 100 years old. We should celebrate how special it makes our democracy
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 22:53:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/compulsory-voting-in-australia-is-100-years-old-we-should-celebrate-how-special-it-makes-our-democracy-234801>
"For nearly 200 years, the notion of American political exceptionalism has had
currency in the United States: it is an idea rooted in the nation’s status as
the first modern republic. As we watch from afar, disturbed yet mesmerised by
(More...)
Threats and challenges to Australia’s democracy are well outlined in government report. Now for some action
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 22:54:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/threats-and-challenges-to-australias-democracy-are-well-outlined-in-government-report-now-for-some-action-234898>
"The
Strengthening Australian Democracy report released by Home Affairs
Minister Clare O’Neil this week provides a sophisticated diagnosis of the
challenges facing democratic governance around the world. The report also
(More...)
Sodium-ion batteries are set to spark a renewable energy revolution – and Australia must be ready
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 22:55:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sodium-ion-batteries-are-set-to-spark-a-renewable-energy-revolution-and-australia-must-be-ready-234560>
"The extent to which renewables should dominate Australia’s energy grids is a
major issue in science and politics. Solar and wind are clearly now the
cheapest form of electricity. But limits to these technologies can undermine
(More...)
Most Australian welders are exposed to high levels of dangerous fumes. More than 40,000 may be at risk
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:04:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/most-australian-welders-are-exposed-to-high-levels-of-dangerous-fumes-more-than-40-000-may-be-at-risk-234813>
"Census data show at least 60,000 people are employed as welders in Australia.
Welders work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing
and mining.
(More...)
I pushed for press freedom in Hong Kong. The Wall Street Journal fired me.
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:06:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.cjr.org/first_person/selina-cheng-wall-street-journal-gershkovich-evan-china-hong-kong-apple.php>
"After 2019, as China tightened its grip on Hong Kong and mass protests gripped
the city, police raided the
Apple Daily and
Stand News newsrooms and
prosecuted their top editors with national security crimes. Several smaller
(More...)
The workers have spoken: They’re staying home.
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:09:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.computerworld.com/article/2520794/the-workers-have-spoken-theyre-staying-home.html>
"Dell had it all figured out. The venerable computer company wouldn’t force
people back into the office. Instead, it would just insist that all staffers
show up at the office for at least three days a week.
(More...)
Making a name in the film industry isn't easy, but this Queensland animation duo is going from strength to strength
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:11:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-23/queensland-film-animators-taking-hollywood-by-storm-kids-movies/104102658>
'While the madcap adventures of loveable blue heeler Bluey has turned the
Queensland cartoon character into a global superstar, another home-grown
animation powerhouse is also taking Hollywood by storm.
(More...)
House On Fire: Why The U.S. Has Most To Lose In A Warming World
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:12:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidrvetter/2024/07/22/house-on-fire-why-the-us-has-most-to-lose-in-a-warming-world/>
'Home insurance: unavoidable necessity, or unaffordable luxury?
The answer might depend on where you live. In states like California and
(More...)
Despite its magic and monsters, Dungeons of Hinterberg's developers 'wanted to show a real place' that could explore 'all the layers' of overtourism
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:14:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.pcgamer.com/games/rpg/despite-its-magic-and-monsters-dungeons-of-hinterbergs-developers-wanted-to-show-a-real-place-that-could-explore-all-the-layers-of-overtourism/>
'Since
Dungeons of Hinterberg is a game about a vacation, it's fittingly also
a game about tourism. People flock to the imaginary Austrian village not to ski
or sightsee but to explore dungeons, fight monsters, and use magic, which
(More...)
The Productivity Commission wants to axe a key tax break for private school donations – but the government is determined to keep it
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:15:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Australia’s major food companies failing nature, report finds
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:16:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/23/australias-major-food-companies-failing-nature-report-finbds>
"Major food companies in Australia are roundly failing to set adequate targets
to reduce their impact on nature and most are not assessing how their supply
chains are hitting the environment, according to a first-of-its-kind report
(More...)
How not to be a dick at an art fair.
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:18:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.facebook.com/pattidigh37days/posts/pfbid02FEFyKTXrbZbEp8xu7JRuBKfcD8gVvfET4tE1FBskGSkv7FPvTawtEaBC9bQ5eWrAl>
"There's only one step. It's not that hard.
So, you’re downtown in the blazing sun with hundreds of people around you,
(More...)
treevis.net - A Visual Bibliography of Tree Visualization 2.0 by Hans-Jörg Schulz
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:25:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://treevis.net/
"Tree visualization is one of the best-studied areas of information
visualization; researchers have developed more than 200 visualization and
layout techniques for trees. The treevis.net project aims to provide a
(More...)
White rice with side dishes isn’t really ‘traditional’ Japanese food. So where did we get this idea?
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:26:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/white-rice-with-side-dishes-isnt-really-traditional-japanese-food-so-where-did-we-get-this-idea-233871>
"At first glance, Netflix’s popular Japanese animation
Delicious in Dungeon
is a strangely food-obsessed dungeon-crawler fantasy tale.
(More...)
Environmental pollution and human health – how worried should we be?
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:27:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/environmental-pollution-and-human-health-how-worried-should-we-be-233819>
"If not the root of all evil, chemical pollution is surely responsible for a
good chunk of it. At least, that’s how it feels sometimes when reading the news
and the latest research.
(More...)
Regional Australians have opened their hearts to refugees – we should open pathways to match
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 19:37:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/23/regional-australians-have-opened-their-hearts-to-refugees-we-should-open-pathways-to-match>
"The desire to give generously runs through the veins of our regional
communities. Over the past year, as I’ve interviewed both newly arrived
refugees and longtime residents from towns across Victoria, I’ve been heartened
(More...)
I spent months with Amazon workers in Coventry before they narrowly voted against unionising. This is what I learned
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 19:38:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/i-spent-months-with-amazon-workers-in-coventry-before-they-narrowly-voted-against-unionising-this-is-what-i-learned-234962>
"Amazon workers in Coventry, England, have narrowly voted against a proposal
that would have forced the retail giant to grant the GMB Union formal
recognition. With a high participation rate of 86% of eligible voters, 50.5%
(More...)
Alex Frayne’s South Australian landscape photography – in pictures
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 19:39:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2024/jul/23/alex-fraynes-south-australian-landscape-photography-in-pictures>
"Photographic artist Alex Frayne continues his love affair with analogue in his
new book Distance and Desire. He has spent years capturing images of the
outback with dystopian results"
(More...)
The greenest games ever? How claims of Olympic sustainability hit a reef in Tahiti
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 19:40:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-greenest-games-ever-how-claims-of-olympic-sustainability-hit-a-reef-in-tahiti-234464>
"A greener games? Certainly that is what Paris promised when it made
environmental sustainability, innovation and leadership central to its
successful bid to host the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
(More...)
Canada wildfires drive hundreds from homes as more scorching heat forecast
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 19:41:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/22/canada-wildfires-evacuation-british-columbia>
"Wildfires have forced hundreds from their homes in Canada’s westernmost
province and officials warn weeks more of scorching temperatures will add
pressure to fire crews already in the parched region.
(More...)
‘Dark oxygen’ in depths of Pacific Ocean could force rethink about origins of life
Wed, 14 Aug 2024 19:43:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/22/dark-oxygen-in-depths-of-pacific-ocean-could-force-rethink-about-origins-of-life>
"In the total darkness of the depths of the Pacific Ocean, scientists have
discovered oxygen being produced not by living organisms but by strange
potato-shaped metallic lumps that give off almost as much electricity as AA
(More...)
We published an analysis from a leading economist on soaring nuclear costs. Facebook removed it
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 03:39:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/we-published-an-analysis-from-a-leading-economist-on-soaring-nuclear-costs-facebook-removed-it/>
"On Sunday,
Renew Economy published an analysis on the soaring cost of
nuclear power by leading economist John Quiggin. On Monday we attempted to post
it in our feed on social media.
(More...)
Chinese auto giant XPeng to debut Australia’s first flying car next month
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 03:42:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/23/chines-auto-giant-xpeng-to-debut-australias-first-flying-car-next-month/>
"Chinese smart electric vehicle (EV) company XPeng says it will debut what it
says will be Australia’s first flying car at the Melbourne Electric SUV Expo in
August, alongside four premium EVs it plans to bring to the country.
(More...)
Sheep farms master the art of solar agri-voltaics in New Zealand
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 03:43:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/sheep-farms-master-the-art-of-solar-agri-voltaics-in-new-zealand/>
"Lodestone Energy, New Zealand’s leading solar generation company, has already
celebrated the launch of two agrivoltaic solar farms this year, and is nearing
completion on a third.
(More...)
Trump’s Massive Deportation Plan Echoes Concentration Camp History
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 03:44:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/trumps-massive-deportation-plan-echoes-concentration-camp-history/>
"The Republican National Convention hit rock bottom on its third day in
Milwaukee, Wis., on July 17, with a sea of signs calling for “Mass Deportation
Now.” If former president Donald Trump is elected for a second term, he and his
(More...)
Estuaries and coastlines capture most plastic before it gets out to sea, giving us a chance to stop ocean pollution
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 03:45:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/estuaries-and-coastlines-capture-most-plastic-before-it-gets-out-to-sea-giving-us-a-chance-to-stop-ocean-pollution-232896>
"If you ask someone where plastic ends up, they will usually say the ocean.
It’s not a surprising answer because we have known since the 1970s that plastic
is accumulating in the subtropical oceans, far from land.
(More...)
Lethal bird flu could decimate Oceania’s birds. From vigilance to vaccines, here’s what we’re doing to prepare
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 03:46:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/lethal-bird-flu-could-decimate-oceanias-birds-from-vigilance-to-vaccines-heres-what-were-doing-to-prepare-235016>
"Avian influenza viruses have infected the world’s birds for millennia. We
first became aware of them in the 19th century, when mass deaths of poultry
triggered interest in what was then called “fowl plague”.
(More...)
Naming and shaming domestic violence perpetrators doesn’t work to keep women safe. Here’s why
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 11:56:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/naming-and-shaming-domestic-violence-perpetrators-doesnt-work-to-keep-women-safe-heres-why-234911>
"Recent survey results show 25% of Australians agree that women who do not
leave abusive relationships are partly responsible for the abuse continuing.
This stubbornly common attitude demonstrates that victim-survivors are still
(More...)
How Australia’s infant food labelling’s ‘health halo effect’ risks leaving babies under-nourished
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 11:57:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/24/how-infant-food-labelling-risks-leaving-australian-babies-undernourished-ntwnfb>
"Andrea Hipsher felt saddled with guilt when she found out the packaged infant
food she was feeding her toddler may have contributed to his nutritional
deficiencies, despite the products claiming to be “natural” and full of health
(More...)
LB.1, or D-FLiRT, is the newest COVID subvariant. What do we know about it? Where has it come from?
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 11:58:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/lb-1-or-d-flirt-is-the-newest-covid-subvariant-what-do-we-know-about-it-where-has-it-come-from-235217>
"Headlines are again warning of a new COVID variant in Australia. This time
it’s LB.1, or as some experts have dubbed it, “D-FLiRT”.
(More...)
Sunday was world’s hottest ever recorded day, data suggests
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 11:59:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/23/world-temperature-records-shattered-hottest-day-climate-crisis>
"World temperature records were shattered on Sunday on what may be the hottest
day scientists have ever logged, data suggests.
(More...)
When a bad Trump joke becomes an affair of state, Germany has lost more than its sense of humour
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 12:00:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/jul/23/germany-donald-trump-joke-sebastian-hotz-elon-musk>
"“The point of comedy is to make fun of everyone,” a Berlin friend told me
recently. What matters, he argued, is that you make yourself look silly too.
But along the way, you’re allowed to disrespect everyone as long as you are
(More...)
An academic publisher has struck an AI data deal with Microsoft – without their authors’ knowledge
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 12:01:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/an-academic-publisher-has-struck-an-ai-data-deal-with-microsoft-without-their-authors-knowledge-235203>
"In May, a multibillion-dollar UK-based multinational called Informa announced
in a trading update that it had signed a deal with Microsoft involving “access
to advanced learning content and data, and a partnership to explore AI expert
(More...)
Canada wildfires: 25,000 evacuate Jasper national park amid multiple blazes
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 19:06:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/23/canada-wildfire-jasper-national-park-evacuated>
"Out-of-control wildfires near the Canadian town of Jasper have forced more
than 25,000 to flee one of the country’s largest national parks as multiple
blazes and thick smoke descended on the Rocky Mountain community.
(More...)
Climate change will lead to massive tropical plant losses
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 19:09:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.futurity.org/climate-change-tropical-plants-3240762/
"Brown University biologists set out to better understand the effects of
climate change on plant species in tropical mountain regions. They found that
even small variations in temperature and moisture can have massive impacts,
(More...)
‘You have power, or you don’t:’ Ukraine’s energy crisis drives power decentralization
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 19:11:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://kyivindependent.com/you-have-power-or-you-dont-ukraines-energy-crisis-drives-power-decentralization/>
"Decentralizing a power grid is a huge undertaking, even in peace times.
Countries around the globe are nevertheless shifting toward “decentralization”
(More...)
Social robot or digital avatar, users interact with this AI technology as if it’s real
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 19:12:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/social-robot-or-digital-avatar-users-interact-with-this-ai-technology-as-if-its-real-229798>
"Humans are interacting more than ever with artificial intelligence (AI) – from
the development of the first “social robots” (a robot with a physical body
programmed to interact and engage with humans) like Kismet in the 1990s to
(More...)
Imitation, not artificial, intelligence
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 19:14:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://lwn.net/Articles/982289/
'Simon Willison, co-creator of the popular Django web framework for Python,
gave a keynote presentation at PyCon 2024 on a topic that is unrelated to that
work: large language models (LLMs). The topic grew out of some other work that
(More...)
Small modular reactors have promise. But we found they’re unlikely to help Australia hit net zero by 2050
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 19:14:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Too slow and too risky, and waste won’t fit in a coke can – engineers debunk Coalition nuclear plan
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:46:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/too-slow-and-too-risky-and-its-waste-wont-fit-in-a-coke-can-engineers-debunk-coalition-nuclear-plan/>
"The Australian Academy for Technological Sciences and Engineering has joined
other scientific, engineering and energy experts in describing the federal
Coalition’s preferred nuclear technology as too slow and too risky.
(More...)
First Australian-made electric hydrofoil boat unveiled to “revolutionise boating”
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:47:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/23/first-australian-made-electric-hydrofoil-boat-unveiled-to-revolutionise-boating/>
"The first electric hydrofoil boat crafted by an Australian company will make
its debut at the Sydney International Boat Show in early August.
(More...)
Edify trucks in 100 Tesla Megapacks for final leg of landmark battery project
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:48:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/edify-trucks-in-100-tesla-megabucks-for-final-leg-of-landmark-battery-project/>
"One hundred Tesla Megapack batteries have arrived in the proposed Murray River
renewable energy zone, where they will be craned into place to create a
landmark battery storage project in the state of Victoria.
(More...)
Project 2025 calls for the imprisonment of conservatism's enemies—and all of America is their enemy
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:50:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2024/7/24/2257674/-Project-2025-calls-for-the-imprisonment-of-conservatism-s-enemies-and-all-of-America-is-their-enemy>
'The
Project 2025 Mandate for Leadership is a 922-page document compiled by
dozens of the biggest names in what once passed as American "conservatism." It
is riddled primarily with the thoughts of former Trump administration officials
(More...)
This right-wing lawsuit against San Francisco is a preview of what’s to come under Trump and Project 2025
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:52:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sfchronicle.com/opinion/nualabishari/article/california-sf-project-2025-trump-19568278.php>
"Three years ago, San Francisco launched an experiment to give 150 pregnant
Black and Pacific Islander women $1,000 a month, no strings attached, for the
duration of their pregnancy and six months after the birth.
(More...)
Are you depressed?
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 04:53:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://c.im/@clarissadelune/112842799528446792
"I'm a therapist and I've been watching this video on a loop for an hour"
Via Susan ****
(More...)
FraudGPT and other malicious AIs are the new frontier of online threats. What can we do?
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:09:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/fraudgpt-and-other-malicious-ais-are-the-new-frontier-of-online-threats-what-can-we-do-234820>
"The internet, a vast and indispensable resource for modern society, has a
darker side where malicious activities thrive.
(More...)
Australian scientists genetically engineer common fly species to eat more of humanity’s waste
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:11:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/24/australian-scientists-genetically-engineer-common-fly-species-to-eat-more-of-humanitys-waste>
"A team of Australian scientists is genetically engineering a common fly
species so that it can eat more of humanity’s organic waste while producing
ingredients for making everything from lubricants and biofuels to high-grade
(More...)
‘Kamala IS brat’: how the power of pop music has influenced 60 years of US elections
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:12:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/kamala-is-brat-how-the-power-of-pop-music-has-influenced-60-years-of-us-elections-235309>
"Hours after United States President Joe Biden announced he was dropping out as
the 2024 Democratic presidential nominee, British musician Charli XCX endorsed
Vice President Kamala Harris, tweeting “kamala IS brat.”
(More...)
Revealed: wealthy western countries lead in global oil and gas expansion
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:14:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/24/new-oil-gas-emission-data-us-uk>
"A surge in new oil and gas exploration in 2024 threatens to unleash nearly
12bn tonnes of planet-heating emissions, with the world’s wealthiest countries
– such as the US and the UK – leading a stampede of fossil fuel expansion in
(More...)
Yes, Australia’s environment is on a depressing path – but $7 billion a year would transform it
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:15:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/yes-australias-environment-is-on-a-depressing-path-but-7-billion-a-year-would-transform-it-235305>
"The condition of Australia’s environment continues to decline. Many
Australians wonder if it’s possible to reverse this depressing trajectory – and
our landmark assessment released today shows the answer is yes.
(More...)
The Kremlin Jails the Father of Russia’s Internet
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:16:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://cepa.org/article/russia-jails-the-father-of-russias-internet/
"Alexey Soldatov, a Russian Internet pioneer and a founder of the first
Internet provider in the country, has been sentenced by a court to two years in
a labor colony on charges of “abuse of power.” Soldatov, 72, had been detained
(More...)
Russia’s war in Ukraine has been devastating for animals – but they’ve also given the nation reason for hope
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:30:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/russias-war-in-ukraine-has-been-devastating-for-animals-but-theyve-also-given-the-nation-reason-for-hope-231929>
"Russia’s war in Ukraine has caused immense suffering to the civilian
population. Tens of thousands are believed to have been killed, though an exact
figure is impossible to know. Russia’s aggression has also sparked the biggest
(More...)
Forget EVs, the Coalition has a plan for nuclear-fuelled hydrogen cars
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:31:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/24/forget-evs-the-coalition-has-a-plan-for-nuclear-fuelled-hydrogen-cars/>
"One of the more remarkable aspects of the federal Coalition’s policy positions
on energy and technology is their out of hand rejection of technologies that do
actually exist, and their apparent blind faith in things which haven’t been
(More...)
Cranberry juice really can help with UTIs – and reduce reliance on antibiotics
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:32:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/cranberry-juice-really-can-help-with-utis-and-reduce-reliance-on-antibiotics-235314>
"Cranberry juice has been used medicinally for centuries. Our new research
indicates it should be a normal aspect of urinary tract infection (UTI)
management today.
(More...)
Australia’s health star rating system exploited by companies making ultra-processed foods, experts say
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:33:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/25/australias-health-star-rating-system-exploited-by-companies-making-ultra-processed-foods-experts-say>
"The food industry in Australia is allowed to use labelling and marketing
tactics to distract from the harmful ingredients in ultra-processed foods due
to its outsize political power, health experts say.
(More...)
Ghosts of species past: shedding new light on the demise of NZ’s moa can help other flightless birds
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:33:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ghosts-of-species-past-shedding-new-light-on-the-demise-of-nzs-moa-can-help-other-flightless-birds-228362>
"New Zealand was once home to giant flightless birds called moa. They had grown
accustomed to life without predators. So the arrival of humans in the mid-13th
century presented a massive – and ultimately insurmountable – challenge to
(More...)
Discovery of poliovirus in Gaza ‘incredibly alarming’, Unicef executive director says
Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:35:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/25/gaza-palestine-poliovirus-discovery-unicef>
"The “incredibly alarming” discovery of the poliovirus in Gaza only adds to the
besieged territory’s status as one of “the most dangerous places to be a child
right now”, the head of the UN children’s agency has warned.
(More...)
AI tutors could be coming to the classroom – but who taught the tutor, and should you trust them?
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 04:28:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ai-tutors-could-be-coming-to-the-classroom-but-who-taught-the-tutor-and-should-you-trust-them-234660>
"The government recently announced ambitions to expand the use of artificial
intelligence (AI) in New Zealand’s classrooms. But as the technology rapidly
changes, it is not clear how this would work or what it will mean for teachers
(More...)
Lessons from the death and rebirth of Thunderbird
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 04:29:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://lwn.net/Articles/982610/
'Ryan Sipes told the audience during his keynote at GUADEC 2024 in Denver,
Colorado that the Thunderbird mail client "probably shouldn't still be alive".
Thunderbird, however, is not only
alive—it is arguably in better shape than
(More...)
Sustainability, cultural significance, and high fashion: the top five uniforms to look out for at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 04:30:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
“I’m not interested in the fanatics:” Dutton responds to science academy’s report on nuclear SMRs
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 04:31:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/im-not-interested-in-the-fanatics-dutton-responds-to-science-academys-report-on-nuclear-smrs/>
"Opposition leader Peter Dutton has dismissed a report on nuclear small modular
reactors by the highly respected Australian Academy of Technological Sciences
and Engineering, saying the Coalition has consulted its own experts and it is
(More...)
The Maker Space Where Members Are More Than Their Pasts
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 04:32:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/past-lives-makerspace-formerly-incarcerated-workers/>
"When Brandon Morlock was released from prison in September of 2020, he wanted
to create a business that would improve peoples’ lives. His crime had been a
terrible accident four and a half years earlier, when he was just 21: He was in
(More...)
The first-ever elephant herpesvirus vaccine injected in Houston Zoo
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 04:34:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/energy-environment/animals/2024/06/21/491405/the-first-ever-elephant-herpesvirus-vaccine-injected-in-houston-zoo/>
'A Houston Zoo elephant received the first-ever dose of an mRNA vaccine aimed
to prevent herpesvirus in elephants on Tuesday, according to a Houston Zoo
press release.
(More...)
Canada is proposing to lead on climate – but it’s doubling down on oil
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 12:25:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/25/trans-mountain-pipeline-canada>
"Like all major rivers winding through the country, Canada’s most controversial
oil pipeline is destined for the ocean.
(More...)
Why are we finding so many Australian shipwrecks lately? There’s one research vessel helping uncover the past
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 12:26:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-are-we-finding-so-many-australian-shipwrecks-lately-theres-one-research-vessel-helping-uncover-the-past-235219>
"On August 23 1969, the coastal freighter
MV Noongah departed Newcastle bound
for Townsville with a cargo of steel and 26 crew. The 71-metre ship had been a
regular sight along the eastern seaboard for a decade as it hauled cargo
(More...)
Jennifer Aniston criticises JD Vance’s ‘childless cat ladies’ comment
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 12:27:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
How a sketch blossomed into Pakistan's first Ghibli-style animation
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 12:29:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx82142l180o
'Ten years ago, musician Usman Riaz grabbed a pencil and started to sketch.
He might have hoped, but didn't know at the time, that it would start him on a
(More...)
‘This used to be a beautiful place’: how the US became the world’s biggest fossil fuel state
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 12:30:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/24/fossil-fuel-liquified-natural-gas-louisiana>
"To witness how the United States has become the world’s unchallenged oil and
gas behemoth is to contemplate the scene from John Allaire’s home, situated on
a small spit of coastal land on the fraying, pancake-flat western flank of
(More...)
Elon Musk's transgender daughter, in first interview, says he berated her for being queer as a child
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 12:31:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/elon-musk-transgender-daughter-vivian-wilson-interview-rcna163665>
"Vivian Jenna Wilson, the transgender daughter of Elon Musk, said Thursday in
her first interview that he was an absent father who was cruel to her as a
child for being queer and feminine.
(More...)
A major multiculturalism review has recommended bold reforms. How far is the government prepared to go?
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 18:32:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Almost 1 in 6 of the world’s banknotes feature wildlife – and they’re not always the creatures you’d expect
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 18:33:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/almost-1-in-6-of-the-worlds-banknotes-feature-wildlife-and-theyre-not-always-the-creatures-youd-expect-234174>
"Banknotes and coins help shape our national identity. The images they display
emphasise historical events, prominent personalities, or scientific, industrial
and technological advances. Sometimes they highlight biodiversity, including
(More...)
Monday was the warmest day recorded on Earth. But how do scientists actually measure that?
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 18:34:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/monday-was-the-warmest-day-recorded-on-earth-but-how-do-scientists-actually-measure-that-235423>
"In the past week, Earth’s record for the hottest day was broken twice. Sunday
July 21 was declared Earth’s hottest day since records began, when average
surface temperature reached 17.09°C. On Monday the record fell again, when
(More...)
Running Kamala Harris may actually be a political masterstroke for the Democrats
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 18:35:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/jul/23/kamala-harris-elecion-masterstroke-democrats>
"Kamala Harris will likely be the next president of the United States – and
that’s overall good news if you care about democracy, justice and equality. Joe
Biden’s decision on Sunday to bow out of the presidential race clears the path
(More...)
Timber venues, river swimming and re-use: how the Paris Olympics is going green – and what it’s missing
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 18:36:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Israel tried to frustrate US lawsuit over Pegasus spyware, leak suggests
Sat, 17 Aug 2024 18:37:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/news/article/2024/jul/25/israel-tried-to-frustrate-us-lawsuit-over-pegasus-spyware-leak-suggests>
"The Israeli government took extraordinary measures to frustrate a high-stakes
US lawsuit that threatened to reveal closely guarded secrets about one of the
world’s most notorious hacking tools, leaked files suggest.
(More...)
Landmark new research shows how global warming is messing with our rainfall
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 03:27:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/landmark-new-research-shows-how-global-warming-is-messing-with-our-rainfall-233432>
"The past century of human-induced warming has increased rainfall variability
over 75% of the Earth’s land area – particularly over Australia, Europe and
eastern North America, new research shows.
(More...)
Canadian Rockies town Jasper badly damaged by fast-moving wildfire
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 03:28:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/25/jasper-alberta-canada-wildfire>
"A fast-moving wildfire has destroyed parts of Jasper, the old mountain town in
the Canadian Rockies, with the mayor warning the damage was “beyond description
and comprehension”. The blaze had forced more than 25,000 people to flee
(More...)
Migrant workers have long been too scared to report employer misconduct. A new visa could change this
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 03:29:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/migrant-workers-have-long-been-too-scared-to-report-employer-misconduct-a-new-visa-could-change-this-235415>
"Migrant worker exploitation is entrenched in workplaces across Australia.
Tragically, a deep fear of immigration consequences means most unlawful
employer conduct goes unreported.
(More...)
Can Cats Solve Puzzles?
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 03:30:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://hackaday.com/2024/07/26/can-cats-solve-puzzles/
"Cats, to those of us who appreciate their company, are fascinating creatures,
with their infinite curiosity and playfulness. [Makers Muse] has a pair of
half-grown-up kittens, and set out to provide them with a plaything far better
(More...)
Journalist Hit With $5,500 Judgment By Italian Court For Mocking Far-Right Politician’s Height
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 03:31:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2024/07/25/journalist-hit-with-5500-judgment-by-italian-court-for-mocking-far-right-politicians-height/>
"Italy continues to push its way towards shitshow as it’s overtaken by
far-right, fascism-adjacent politicians. There’s nothing here that signals the
country will try to move back towards the center. Having apparently learned
(More...)
Megawatt charging stations able to re-power electric trucks within regulatory rest breaks
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 03:32:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/26/megawatt-charging-stations-able-to-re-power-electric-trucks-within-regulatory-rest-breaks/>
"The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is working with industry partners and
research institutions to develop a megawatt charging system that would enable
battery-powered trucks to perform long-distance cargo transport.
(More...)
Holy CRAP the UN Cybercrime Treaty is a nightmare
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 11:25:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pluralistic.net/2024/07/23/expanded-spying-powers/#in-russia-crime-cybers-you>
"If there's one thing I learned from all my years as an NGO delegate to UN
specialized agencies, it's that UN treaties are
dangerous, liable to capture
by unholy alliances of authoritarian states and rapacious global capitalists.
(More...)
Forget nuclear: 5B says plunging price of PV means giga-scale solar farms the future for old coal plants
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 11:26:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/forget-nuclear-5b-says-plunging-price-of-pv-means-giga-scale-solar-farms-the-future-for-old-coal-plants/>
"Australian solar innovator 5B says the plunging price of photovoltaic
technology has made the company’s prefabricated Maverick arrays
cost-competitive with single axis tracking solar plants – and in some cases
(More...)
Solar doesn’t need a toxic “friendship” with nuclear power
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 11:27:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/solar-doesnt-need-a-toxic-friendship-with-nuclear-power/>
"Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has been in regional Queensland this
week promoting his nuclear plan, which claims nuclear and solar both have a
future in Australia’s energy mix.
(More...)
Bright Green Futures Ep. 15: Climate Fiction Zines and Small Presses
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 11:28:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://brightgreenfutures.substack.com/p/ep-15-climate-fiction-zines-and-small>
"I created
Bright Green Futures to lift up stories about a more sustainable
and just world and talk about the struggle to get there.
(More...)
Climate hero or villain? Fossil fuel frenzy challenges Norway’s green image
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 11:29:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/26/climate-hero-villain-fossil-fuel-frenzy-challenges-norway-green-image>
"The average Norwegian, better known for loving nature than destroying the
planet, is more likely than anyone else to drive to work in an electric car and
warm their home with a heat pump. When they turn on the kettle in the morning
(More...)
Two in three women say they've experienced medical misogyny. It's not just frustrating — it can kill
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 11:31:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-27/women-share-experiences-with-medical-misogyny-in-australia/104034918>
'It was a Saturday morning and Debra Clare was putting clothes into her washing
machine when suddenly a pain came across her chest so intensely that she had to
sit on her verandah, sweaty and nauseous, just so she could focus on breathing.
(More...)
‘People would abuse me’: how a ‘climate capitalist’ learned to sell solar in Victoria’s coal country
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 18:25:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/27/australia-renewables-solar-power-gippsland>
"When Andy McCarthy moved to the heart of Victoria’s coal country in 2010 to
start selling rooftop solar panels he was greeted with “open ridicule”.
(More...)
Blue hydrogen from CCS is a con with a big carbon footprint
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 18:26:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/blue-hydrogen-from-ccs-is-a-con-with-a-big-carbon-footprint/>
"Hardly a day goes by without controversy over hydrogen and its role in making
Australia a renewable energy exporting superpower. It’s not surprising, given
that there is a $2 billion Hydrogen Headstart program and the $6.7 billion
(More...)
How a plant identification app helped me find happiness and satisfaction
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 18:27:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/wellness/article/2024/jul/24/plant-identifcation-apps>
"Eighteen months ago, I adopted a dog. Now I’m out on the streets of Brooklyn
with my hound mix for at least an hour a day, strolling and wrestling discarded
chicken bones from her jaws. You notice a lot when you visit the same few
(More...)
Jabiluka decision ends long-running battle and preserves ‘some of the oldest rock art in the world’
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 18:28:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
AI Hype: “Billions of dollars will be incinerated” Business Analysts Warn
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 18:29:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ljztbcdzkeo
"We’ve all heard how artificial intelligence will supposedly bring giant boosts
in productivity, take our jobs, and end humanity, but some business insiders
think that AI isn’t going to have remotely as big of an impact as others have
(More...)
When It Comes to Climate Change, Everything We Do Matters
Sun, 18 Aug 2024 18:30:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/climate-change-what-we-do-matters/
"The recent news hit me like a heat wave: Climate experts have no doubt that we
are on our way to overshooting the 1.5°C increase in global heating the UN
leaders agreed on in the Paris Agreement of 2015 by at least 1°C before the end
(More...)
The Chilean tree that could help cure malaria (and a host of other diseases)
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 04:41:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/science-and-disease/the-chilean-tree-that-could-cure-malaria-and-other-diseases/>
"At first glance, it looks like any other vineyard in Chile’s Casablanca
Valley, with rows of terraces strung out across a rocky hillside. But take a
closer look and you will see that grapes are not the only crop.
(More...)
Extreme heat poses ‘real risk’ to Spain’s mass tourism industry
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 04:41:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/27/extreme-heat-poses-real-risk-to-spains-mass-tourism-industry>
"The climate emergency poses a “real risk” to Spain’s traditional mass tourist
model as rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves hit the country’s most
popular coastal destinations, a senior public health adviser has warned.
(More...)
A ‘High-Tech, Low-Cost’ Approach to Community Mental Health Care in India
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 04:43:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/maanasi-mental-health-care-women/
"Last year, Geetha Jayaram flew back to the South Indian region of Karnataka
near Bangalore, where she grew up. She visited her very first patient there,
Eashwaramma. Twenty-five years ago, when the psychiatrist and the villager
(More...)
California's largest wildfire explodes in size as fires rage across U.S. West
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 04:44:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/2024/07/27/g-s1-13869/californias-largest-wildfire-explodes-in-size>
'California's largest active fire exploded in size on Friday evening, growing
rapidly amid bone-dry fuel and threatening thousands of homes as firefighters
scrambled to meet the danger.
(More...)
A Vibrant Local Food System Grows in Colorado
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 04:45:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/a-vibrant-local-food-system-grows-in-colorado//>
"Throughout the summer in the Golden, Colorado, area, you might see a big box
truck full of local fresh vegetables hosting a pay-what-you can farmer’s
market. Affectionately called Chuck, GoFarm’s mobile market truck travels to
(More...)
Announcing The Techno-Humanist Manifesto
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 04:47:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://blog.rootsofprogress.org/announcing-the-techno-humanist-manifesto>
"Humans are a curious species: We have a need not only to
do, but to
explain what we are doing—to each other and above all to ourselves. Movements
begin with practice, but as they evolve, they need
theory in order to
(More...)
Over half of Clayoquot Sound’s iconic forests are now protected — here’s how First Nations and B.C. did it
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:54:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://thenarwhal.ca/bc-clayoquot-sound-2024-protections/
"The forests of Clayoquot Sound became world famous as the battlegrounds of the
decades-long “war in the woods” — and now, a vast swath of the rich old-growth
trees are permanently protected.
(More...)
Reading between the lines: the book club boom
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:55:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/reading-between-the-lines-the-book-club-boom/>
"Move over, Netflix – there’s a novel favourite pastime in town. From Dua
Lipa’s celebrity-endorsed reading circle to the quiet allure of ‘silent’ book
clubs, Brits are rediscovering the joy of reading together. But these
(More...)
And the Winner Is … the Slowest!
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:56:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/02/climate/whales-speed-ships-slow.html
"Every year, in the waters off the California coast, hundreds of tankers, car
carriers and container vessels from dozens of shipping companies take part in
an unusual race.
(More...)
Taxing the rich could solve many problems. Why is it so difficult in the UK?
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:58:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/business/article/2024/jul/27/taxing-the-rich-could-solve-many-problems-why-is-it-so-difficult-in-the-uk>
"Rachel Reeves will this week lay out the full cost of Conservative party
economic neglect. Initial findings, according to Labour briefings, put the cost
of the repair job at about £20bn, though there is also a strong hint that the
(More...)
More states enact salary transparency laws to fight gender, racial pay gaps
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:59:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://stateline.org/2024/07/10/more-states-enact-salary-transparency-laws-to-fight-gender-racial-pay-gaps/>
"To combat gender and racial wage gaps, nearly a dozen states recently have
enacted pay transparency laws that require employers to be more open about the
wages and benefits they offer.
(More...)
The campaign to outlaw lying in politics
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:00:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/the-campaign-to-outlaw-lying-in-politics/>
"“Always ask yourself: Why is this lying bastard lying to me?” Perhaps these
blunt words of advice for journalists interviewing politicians, attributed to
the late foreign correspondent Louis Heren, have endured because they are seen
(More...)
Rewards for tourists who litter pick in Copenhagen
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 19:16:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c04783n9x94o
'Tourists will be rewarded with free food and activities if they participate in
environmentally friendly tasks while visiting Copenhagen, the city's tourist
board has announced.
(More...)
AI art has no anti-cooption immune system
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 19:17:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pluralistic.net/2024/07/20/ransom-note-force-field/#antilibraries>
"One thing Myspace had going for it: it was exuberantly ugly. The decision to
let users with no design training loose on a highly customizable user-interface
led to a proliferation of Myspace pages that vibrated with personality.
(More...)
Value in the meantime: the social enterprise transforming London’s empty buildings
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 19:19:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/value-in-the-meantime-the-social-enterprise-transforming-londons-empty-buildings/>
"There are 80,000 empty buildings in London, and I’m in one of them.
Perched across the road from the vast Tate & Lyle sugar refinery in Silvertown
(More...)
(Any)body work: behind the scenes at London’s first all-female garage
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 19:20:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/anybody-work-behind-the-scenes-at-londons-first-all-female-garage/>
"At the end of a quiet, leafy lane in Finchley, north London, is a hive of
activity. It’s the middle of the working day at Spanners With Manners, which as
its sign proudly declares is London’s first all-female garage. The smells of
(More...)
Human rights have improved in all world regions over the last century
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 19:22:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://ourworldindata.org/data-insights/human-rights-have-improved-in-all-world-regions-over-the-last-century>
"Human rights are much better protected in all world regions than a century
ago, according to data by Varieties of Democracy.
(More...)
Arkansas celebrates milestone with 5 millionth book from Dolly Parton's philanthropy
Mon, 19 Aug 2024 19:23:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://katv.com/news/local/arkansas-celebrates-milestone-with-5-millionth-book-from-dolly-partons-philanthropy-imaginationlibrary-usps-literacy-youth-education>
"LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — The 5 millionth book sent to a child in Arkansas from
Dolly Parton's Imagination Library hit the mail today from the Forest Park Post
Office in Little Rock.
(More...)
Abandoned festival tents upcycled into clothes
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:25:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c886dl0eg4po
'A small business in Sheffield is giving a new life to abandoned tents from
music festivals by upcycling them into clothes.
(More...)
How sci-fi has changed over the last 70 years, analyzed with data.
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:28:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRQ2vMpw-n8
"Over the past 70 years, science fiction has dramatically changed. The data
shows us that what used to be an optimistic and inspiring genre has evolved to
reflect our own fears and anxieties."
(More...)
Ravaged by civil war, how a national park was restored in Mozambique
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:29:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2024/7/2/ravaged-by-civil-war-how-a-national-park-was-restored-in-mozambique>
"In Gorongosa National Park in central Mozambique, veterinarian Mercia Angela
cradles a baby pangolin in her arms. Perhaps aware that it is safe, it reaches
out and gently pulls her hair.
(More...)
Australia’s north-west reefs teem with life – but they are also at the centre of a massive fossil fuel expansion
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:30:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/28/scott-reef-australia-drilling-plan-oil-gas-woodside-lng-north-west-shelf>
"Australia’s next wave of fossil fuel expansion is planned for environments far
from where most people will ever see it. Places like Scott Reef.
(More...)
European Turtle Dove increases dramatically following hunting ban
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:31:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.birdguides.com/news/european-turtle-dove-increases-dramatically-following-hunting-ban/>
"Following a hunting ban, European Turtle Dove has increased by 25% in Western
Europe between 2021 and 2023, according to a new report.
(More...)
How Soon Might the Atlantic Ocean Break? Two Sibling Scientists Found an Answer—and Shook the World
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:33:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.wired.com/story/amoc-collapse-atlantic-ocean/
"Off the southwest tip of Iceland, you’ll find what’s often called a “marginal”
body of water. This part of the Atlantic, the Irminger Sea, is one of the
stormiest places in the northern hemisphere. On Google Maps it gets three
(More...)
‘Morally, nobody’s against it’: Brazil’s radical plan to tax global super-rich to tackle climate crisis
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 12:14:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/28/brazil-radical-plan-tax-global-super-rich-tackle-climate-crisis>
"Proposals to slap a wealth tax on the world’s super-rich could yield $250bn
(£200bn) a year to tackle the climate crisis and address poverty and
inequality, but would affect only a small number of billionaire families,
(More...)
Airlines may have to disclose carbon impact of individuals’ flights under new UK policy
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 12:15:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/23/airlines-disclosure-carbon-impact-passengers-individual-flights>
"Airlines may have to tell passengers the environmental impact of the flights
they book under new proposals from the UK regulator.
(More...)
Thai tiger numbers swell as prey populations stabilize in western forests
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 12:16:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2024/07/thai-tiger-numbers-swell-as-prey-populations-stabilize-in-western-forests/>
"The tiger population density in a series of protected areas in western
Thailand has more than doubled over the past two decades, according to new
survey data.
(More...)
Near-extinct crocodiles make comeback in Cambodia
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 12:17:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c87r3ygzljdo
'Cambodia has welcomed 60 baby Siamese crocodiles - a hatching record for the
endangered species in this century, conservationists say.
(More...)
On the Ground With the Volunteers Running Community Fridges
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 12:18:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://modernfarmer.com/2024/07/on-the-ground-with-the-volunteers-running-community-fridges/>
"Hunger and food insecurity exist in every community in the US. Around 12.8
percent of US households experienced food insecurity in 2022.
(More...)
The White House Has a Plan to Slash Plastic Use in the U.S.
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 12:19:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/19/climate/biden-administration-single-use-plastic-reduction.html>
"Calling plastic pollution one of the world’s most pressing environmental
problems, the Biden administration on Friday said that the federal government,
the biggest buyer of consumer goods in the world, would phase out purchases of
(More...)
Polish Foreign Ministry suggests Hungary leave EU and NATO after Orbán's claims
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:35:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2024/07/28/7467802/
'Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski has questioned
why Hungary needs to be a member of the EU and NATO following recent criticism
of Poland by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
(More...)
Health star labels move closer to being mandatory. But food companies could still (legally) game the system
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:35:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/health-star-labels-move-closer-to-being-mandatory-but-food-companies-could-still-legally-game-the-system-235512>
"On Thursday, Australian and New Zealand food ministers at state, federal and
national levels met to thrash out what’s next for health star ratings on
packaged foods.
(More...)
Wong announces new digital cable centre to limit China’s influence in Indo-Pacific
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:37:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/29/wong-announces-new-digital-cable-centre-to-limit-chinas-influence-in-indo-pacific>
"Australia is stepping up its attempts to limit China’s influence in the
Pacific, with the establishment of a new “cable connectivity and resilience
centre” designed to boost connectivity for Pacific nations.
(More...)
Before there was diving and relays, there was the Poetry Olympics
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:38:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/before-there-was-diving-and-relays-there-was-the-poetry-olympics-235310>
"Ever wondered whether you’d have a better chance at winning an Olympic gold if
you could fling words rather than a javelin? Or maybe you could beat down your
opponents with comedic wit? If so, you may have been a strong contender at the
(More...)
‘I’m scared I’m going to die’: a rising number of Australians are sleeping rough as the housing crisis bites
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:39:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/jul/29/im-scared-im-going-to-die-a-rising-number-of-australians-are-sleeping-rough-as-the-housing-crisis-bites>
"For the past 10 years, Susan has been sleeping rough. The signs show on her
body – a year-old wound that refuses to heal, small cuts that won’t mend,
regular arthritis flare-ups and stress lines across her face.
(More...)
Drone food delivery is spreading across Australia. Research suggests we will eat more junk food as a result
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:40:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/drone-food-delivery-is-spreading-across-australia-research-suggests-we-will-eat-more-junk-food-as-a-result-235429>
"Last week, a drone delivery company called Wing (owned by Google’s parent
company, Alphabet) started operating in Melbourne. Some 250,000 residents in
parts of the city’s eastern suburbs can now order food from cafes and
(More...)
Iran’s new president rekindles faint hopes of rapprochement with west
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:39:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/28/iran-new-president-masoud-pezeshkian-rekindles-feint-hopes-of-rapprochement-with-west>
"Iran’s new president has been formally inaugurated by the supreme leader,
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, opening up the slim hope of improved relations with the
west, less internal censorship and a fresh approach to the economy.
(More...)
Twice as good for half the respect: Kamala Harris’ battle for the White House
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:40:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/twice-as-good-for-half-the-respect-kamala-harris-battle-for-the-white-house-235419>
"Mainstream media are surprisingly muted at the prospect of the world’s most
powerful nation being led for the first time by a woman – specifically a woman
of colour, Vice President Kamala Harris. Using past elections as our guide, we
(More...)
China: still the world’s biggest emitter, but also an emerging force in climate diplomacy
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:42:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/china-still-the-worlds-biggest-emitter-but-also-an-emerging-force-in-climate-diplomacy-235311>
"Seven years seems a lifetime in politics. In 2017, President Donald Trump
announced the United States would withdraw from the Paris Agreement. It
prompted Canada, China and the European Union to convene an urgent meeting to
(More...)
“You have to be creative:” Why Australia’s most successful grid-scale battery developer reinvents itself
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:43:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/you-have-to-be-creative-why-australias-most-successful-grid-scale-battery-developer-reinvents-itself/>
"One of the most fascinating parts of the green energy transition – and in
recent years the most uplifting – has been the rapid growth in the battery
storage sector, and how bit by bit the best developers have slowly unfurled the
(More...)
Ferrari exec foils deepfake attempt by asking the scammer a question only CEO Benedetto Vigna could answer
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:45:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://fortune.com/2024/07/27/ferrari-deepfake-attempt-scammer-security-question-ceo-benedetto-vigna-cybersecurity-ai/>
"It was mid-morning on a Tuesday this month when a Ferrari NV executive started
receiving a bunch of unexpected messages, seemingly from the CEO.
(More...)
Australians blame wind, solar for high power bills as media campaigns take hold
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 05:46:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/australians-blame-wind-solar-for-high-power-bills-as-media-campaigns-take-hold/>
"Australians have forgotten why their power bills are going up, with more than
a third now blaming renewables, and not rising fossil fuel prices for their
monthly or quarterly pain, according to an Ipsos survey released on Monday.
(More...)
Secret 'sky island' rainforest saved by new discoveries
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:18:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c51ylgr1zpxo
'Perched on a remote mountain top and surrounded by lowlands, Mabu is what's
known as a "sky island" and is the largest rainforest in southern Africa. BBC
environment correspondent Jonah Fisher went to Mabu with a team of scientists
(More...)
US Should End Solitary Confinement of Immigrants
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:20:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/07/29/us-should-end-solitary-confinement-immigrants>
"Earlier this month, people being detained at California Immigration and
Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities began a labor and hunger strike to protest
their conditions, including against the use of solitary confinement. Recent
(More...)
'Great news': Ecuador river is granted the right to not be polluted in historic court case
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:21:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.euronews.com/green/2024/07/08/great-news-ecuador-river-is-granted-the-right-to-not-be-polluted-in-historic-court-case>
"In an unusual ruling, a court in Ecuador ruled on Sunday that pollution has
violated the rights of a river that runs through the capital, Quito.
(More...)
Corporate Commitments to “Circularity” Fall Short
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:23:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.ifixit.com/News/98018/corporate-commitments-to-circularity-fall-short>
"Despite large numbers of corporate commitments and regulatory targets around
phasing out plastics, a new report (PDF) says that the “circular economy” has
made little progress over the past decade to make plastic reduction targets a
(More...)
Saudi Arabia’s goin sicko mode on its sci-fi city-state
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:24:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IARh8shW-Ww
"Neom is Saudi Arabia’s planned “eco-region” in the country’s sparse northwest
desert. In addition to its urban planning being borderline fantastical, Neom
represents Saudi Arabia’s full embrace of capitalism despite its
(More...)
Australia fears being abandoned by America – but do the two countries need each other?
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:26:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Amazon's financial shell game let it create an "impossible" monopoly
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 19:24:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://pluralistic.net/2024/03/01/managerial-discretion/#junk-fees
'For the pro-monopoly crowd that absolutely dominated antitrust law from the
Carter administration until 2020, Amazon presents a genuinely puzzling paradox:
the company's monopoly power was
never supposed to emerge, and if it did, it
(More...)
How ‘world’s first oil town’ is wrestling with fossil fuel legacy
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 19:25:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/29/worlds-first-oil-town-baku-fossil-fuel-legacy-cop29>
"Just a few miles from the site of the next UN climate conference in Baku,
Azerbaijan, is a district that for more than a century was known as Black City.
Every house and factory was thickly stained with soot, from the oil that was
(More...)
Hikers are infecting Virginia wildlife with COVID-19, study finds
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 19:26:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/4798487-covid-19-virginia-wildlife-hikers/>
"Six common wildlife species in Virginia have high rates of the virus that
causes COVID-19 — a disease they likely caught from humans.
(More...)
We compared land transport options for getting to net zero. Hands down, electric rail is the best
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 19:27:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-compared-land-transport-options-for-getting-to-net-zero-hands-down-electric-rail-is-the-best-234092>
"Transport emissions have grown in line with the population and economy.
Without intervention, the Australian government expects transport to be the
largest emissions source by 2030. So, cutting transport emissions is a crucial,
(More...)
Hybrid cars can be nearly five times dirtier than battery electric cars, new report finds
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 19:28:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/29/hybrid-cars-can-be-nearly-five-times-dirtier-than-battery-electric-cars-new-report-finds/>
"A new assessment of lifecycle emissions of four common passenger vehicle
powertrains in the United States has found that battery electric vehicles
(BEVs) have considerably lower lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than
(More...)
Manila is reeling after a super typhoon. We must prepare fast-growing megacities for worsening disasters
Wed, 21 Aug 2024 19:32:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/manila-is-reeling-after-a-super-typhoon-we-must-prepare-fast-growing-megacities-for-worsening-disasters-235598>
"Last week, a strong typhoon left a trail of destruction across the
Philippines, Taiwan and China. Super Typhoon Gaemi began as a tropical storm
but intensified rapidly, leaving at least 65 people dead and triggering
(More...)
As record heat risks bleaching 73% of the world’s coral reefs, scientists ask ‘what do we do now?’
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:32:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Our beef with ‘Big Meat’: the power perpetuating Australia’s live export trade is at play elsewhere
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:33:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Atsuko Okatsuka: ‘Whatever made you feel like a freak as a kid – that thing is your superpower’
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:34:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/stage/article/2024/jul/30/atsuko-okatsuka-executives-say-we-only-do-one-ali-wong-every-10-years-why-would-we-do-a-second>
"Atsuko Okatsuka has largely been the architect of her own success. During the
long stretches of Covid lockdowns, when most of us sought comfort on our
phones, the Los Angeles-based standup comedian began connecting directly with
(More...)
The discovery of a new Earth-like planet could shed further light on what makes a planet habitable
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:35:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-discovery-of-a-new-earth-like-planet-could-shed-further-light-on-what-makes-a-planet-habitable-234127>
"In an exciting breakthrough for astronomy and the search for extraterrestrial
life, a team of international scientists has announced the discovery of Gliese
12 b, a temperate, Earth-sized exoplanet just 40 light-years away — a
(More...)
Vertical, all-black solar system seeks to power through the winter snow
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:36:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://onestepoffthegrid.com.au/vertical-all-black-solar-system-seeks-to-power-through-the-winter-snow/>
"Chinese solar PV manufacturer Longi has completed the first vertical
installation of all-black solar modules in Japan, in a bid to circumvent
generation losses during the region’s snowy winters.
(More...)
Most of Australia’s First Nations languages don’t have gendered pronouns. Here’s why
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:40:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/most-of-australias-first-nations-languages-dont-have-gendered-pronouns-heres-why-234289>
"If you visit Broome in Western Australia, you might be lucky enough to see
Mary G perform. Mary G is a popular Gija comedian. On her website, English is
used to describe Mary G as
she and Mary G’s alter ego, Mark Bin Bakar, as
(More...)
Hawaiʻi is saying no to seabed mining. Will international authorities listen?
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:05:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/local-news/2024-07-09/hawaii-seabed-mining-law-international>
"Hawaiʻi has joined California, Oregon and Washington in banning deep-sea
mining in state waters. The new law passed through the state Legislature with
broad support from environmental groups, Native Hawaiian cultural
(More...)
Coral restoration is a speculative, feel-good science that won’t save our reefs
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:06:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/coral-restoration-is-a-speculative-feel-good-science-that-wont-save-our-reefs-235657>
"Climate change has killed billions of corals and fundamentally changed coral
reefs. The response, especially in Australia, has been to fix the symptoms, not
address the cause – climate change for which humans are responsible.
(More...)
This project is cleaning up abandoned fish farms in the seas around Greece
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:07:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/07/abandoned-fish-farms-greece-ocean-pollution/>
"Western Greece boasts picturesque landscapes, beautiful beaches and renowned
holiday islands. Yet just off the coast, beneath the Ionian Sea, lurks
something less idyllic, especially for the local sea life – ghost farms.
(More...)
An average 100 million native animals killed or injured each year from land clearing, mostly for beef farms
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:08:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/an-average-100-million-native-animals-killed-or-injured-each-year-from-land-clearing-mostly-for-beef-farms/>
"A new report shows an average of 100 million native animals are displaced,
injured or killed from land clearing in Queensland and NSW every year,
including more than one thousand koalas.
(More...)
Critically Endangered Beluga Whales Protected From Oil Drilling In Alaska’s Cook Inlet
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:10:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://worldanimalnews.com/victory-court-overturns-alaskas-cook-inlet-oil-lease-sale-safeguarding-critically-endangered-beluga-whales/>
"Animal welfare and environmental groups are celebrating a significant victory
after a federal district court judge overturned an offshore oil and gas lease
sale in Alaska’s Cook Inlet, the sole habitat of critically endangered beluga
(More...)
Pelicans return to nest at Great Salt Lake island for 1st time in 81 years
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:11:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://greatsaltlakenews.org/latest-news/ksl-com/pelicans-return-to-nest-at-great-salt-lake-island-for-1st-time-in-81-years>
'GRANTSVILLE — Some of Utah's pelicans have found a new home at the Great Salt
Lake, after many of the state's pods completely abandoned a long-standing
nesting site on another part of the lake last year.
(More...)
Salmon are struggling to migrate in hot waters along their route. So they're driving
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:43:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/2024/07/30/nx-s1-5049945/salmon-are-struggling-to-migrate-in-hot-waters-along-their-route-so-theyre-driving>
"In the Pacific Northwest, some tributaries salmon travel through to spawn are
so hot that it’s threatening their migration. In some places, biologists have
trucked the fish to cooler water."
(More...)
Newly created super-black wood can improve telescopes, optical devices and consumer goods
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:44:38 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://phys.org/news/2024-07-newly-super-black-wood-telescopes.html
'Thanks to an accidental discovery, researchers at the University of British
Columbia have created a new super-black material that absorbs almost all light,
opening potential applications in fine jewelry, solar cells and precision
(More...)
Powerhouse Museum acquires David Jones’ archive, brimming with forgotten stories of Australia’s past
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:45:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/powerhouse-museum-acquires-david-jones-archive-brimming-with-forgotten-stories-of-australias-past-234373>
"David Jones is donating its archive to Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum, it has been
announced today. It is a timely reminder of the significance of “DJs”,
Australia’s oldest department store, to the development of modern Australia.
(More...)
How can I become a palaeontologist? 5 tips from a professional fossil hunter
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:46:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Bangkok mobilizes volunteers to combat stray pet crisis
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:47:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://asia.nikkei.com/Life-Arts/Life/Bangkok-mobilizes-volunteers-to-combat-stray-pet-crisis>
'BANGKOK — Hiding in plain sight beneath a palm tree, Janice Koehler eyes a
metal cage across a parking lot, sitting in the shadows of a Bangkok high-rise.
The trap is set. Her target lurks.
(More...)
Letters from an American: July 30, 2024
Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:49:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-30-2024
"On Friday, speaking to Christians at the Turning Point Action Believers’
Summit in West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump begged the members of the audience to
“vote. Just this time. You won’t have to do it anymore. Four more years, you
(More...)
Does Donald Trump really want to be a dictator?
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:00:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/does-donald-trump-really-want-to-be-a-dictator-234669>
"Last week, Donald Trump promised a Christian audience that if they voted for
him in 2024, they wouldn’t have to vote again in four years.
(More...)
For decades, governments have subsidised fossil fuels. But why?
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:01:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/for-decades-governments-have-subsidised-fossil-fuels-but-why-213467>
"Even now, decades after we first began trying to avert the worst of global
warming, more than 80% of the world’s total energy comes from fossil fuels.
(More...)
Austal to build wind-powered cargo trimaran that will ditch diesel on trans Atlantic routes
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:02:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/30/austal-to-build-wind-powered-cargo-trimaran-that-will-ditch-diesel-on-trans-atlantic-routes/>
"Western Australian shipbuilder Austal has been awarded a contract to design
and construct a wind-powered aluminium cargo trimaran by the French designer
Vela Transport.
(More...)
NASA smacked a spacecraft into an asteroid – and learned details about its 12-million-year history
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:03:38 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Australian researchers race to smash the solar efficiency ceiling using “singlet fission”
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:04:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/australian-researchers-race-to-smash-the-solar-efficiency-ceiling-using-singlet-fission/>
"A team of Australian researchers from the University of New South Wales is
racing another tam from MIT in the US to boost the efficiency limits of silicon
solar cells using quantum mechanics.
(More...)
Editorial: Trump and oil companies are lying to you about electric cars to serve their own interests
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:05:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2024/07/30/editorial-trump-and-oil-companies-are-lying-to-you-about-electric-cars-to-serve-their-own-interests/>
"Oil companies are worried that federal incentives and the growing popularity
of electric vehicles will eat into their profits and threaten their
stranglehold over energy consumption. Former President Donald Trump and other
(More...)
Is Australia’s climate confusing you? Here’s why rainfall and temperatures don’t always behave as expected
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:00:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/is-australias-climate-confusing-you-heres-why-rainfall-and-temperatures-dont-always-behave-as-expected-233345>
"In the past few years in Australia, seasonal rainfall and temperatures have
left a lot of people confused. Sometimes, the hot, dry conditions usually
associated with an El Niño have not eventuated. Similarly, there have been
(More...)
Methane is turbocharging unnatural disasters – Australia must get serious about reducing emissions
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:01:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/methane-is-turbocharging-unnatural-disasters-australia-must-get-serious-about-reducing-emissions-234480>
"One of the most significant achievements of the 26th United Nations climate
conference in Glasgow (COP26) three years ago was the launch of the Global
Methane Pledge. The goal is to reduce global methane emissions at least 30% by
(More...)
Coal mine methane mitigation is finally getting real again – but only after huge government handouts
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:02:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/coal-mine-methane-mitigation-is-finally-getting-real-again-but-only-after-huge-government-handouts/>
"Australia was once the world’s leader in reducing methane. Back before the CSG
boom kicked off, methane mitigation was all the rage across the mining sector,
and Australia was the global hub of innovation
(More...)
Flunkies, goons and managerial feudalism: why David Graeber’s Bullshit Jobs is the book that keeps on giving
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:03:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/flunkies-goons-and-managerial-feudalism-why-david-graebers-bullshit-jobs-is-the-book-that-keeps-on-giving-233775>
"The late David Graeber was an American professor of anthropology at the London
School of Economics. His best-known writings challenged views in liberal
economics about the origins of money, attempting to reconceive the historical
(More...)
Industry calls for $3 billion fund to clean dirty big trucks
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:04:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/07/31/industry-calls-for-3-billion-fund-to-clean-dirty-big-trucks/>
"Australia’s heavy-duty transport industry is calling for a $3 billion national
fund to invest in low-emission vehicles and ensure drivers can keep on trucking
in a net-zero era.
(More...)
I feel sick. How do I know if I have the flu, COVID, RSV or something else?
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:05:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/i-feel-sick-how-do-i-know-if-i-have-the-flu-covid-rsv-or-something-else-234266>
"You wake with a sore throat and realise you are sick. Is this going to be a
two-day or a two-week illness? Should you go to a doctor or just go to bed?
(More...)
Massive Australia-to-Singapore clean energy cable gets green light
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 18:34:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://newatlas.com/energy/suncable-australia-asia-power-link-approval-update/>
'The world's largest renewable energy and transmission project has received key
approval from government officials. The Australia-Asia Power Link project will
send Australian solar power to Singapore via 4,300 kilometer-long undersea
(More...)
You're Being Lied To. The EV Market Hasn't 'Stalled'
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 18:36:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://insideevs.com/features/727285/is-the-ev-market-stalling/
"You’ve heard it everywhere, or some variation of it. It’s never a contest
claim, but an obvious truth, often leading into the meat of the sentence. “As
EV growth stalls” or “In a market where consumers prefer hybrids to EVs.” The
(More...)
Openverse
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:04:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://openverse.org/
"Openverse is a tool that allows openly licensed and public domain works to be
discovered and used by everyone.
(More...)
Giant waves, monster winds and Earth’s strongest current: here’s why the Southern Ocean is a global engine room
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:05:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/giant-waves-monster-winds-and-earths-strongest-current-heres-why-the-southern-ocean-is-a-global-engine-room-233669>
"The Southern Ocean is wild and dynamic. It experiences Earth’s strongest winds
and largest waves. It is home to city-sized icebergs and the biggest ocean
current on the globe, as well as tiny turbulent flows that fit inside a teacup.
(More...)
Marketing a tote bag as reusable is silly. Let’s say no to more stuff
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:06:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/30/reusable-tote-bags>
"I used to keep a plastic bag of plastic bags under my kitchen sink. Like the
water in the pipes above, around which they accumulated, it seemed I had bags
in unlimited supply. A few years ago, when my city enacted a plastic bag ban,
(More...)
10 times the aurora australis inspired remarkable works of art
Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:07:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/10-times-the-aurora-australis-inspired-remarkable-works-of-art-228629>
"Social media has once again lit up with the spectacle of aurora australis,
also known as the Southern Lights, as it became visible in some skies across
the southern states last night.
(More...)
Only 15 known underwater internet cables connect Australia to the world – and they’re under threat from fishing boats, spies and natural disasters
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 04:50:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/only-15-known-underwater-internet-cables-connect-australia-to-the-world-and-theyre-under-threat-from-fishing-boats-spies-and-natural-disasters-235772>
"The Australian government this week announced it would spend A$18 million over
four years on a new centre aimed at keeping safe the undersea cables that power
the nation’s internet.
(More...)
The Grimy Residue of the AI Bubble
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 04:52:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://buttondown.com/maiht3k/archive/the-grimy-residue-of-the-ai-bubble/>
'Q2 earnings are in. According to Pitchbook data, venture capitalists put $27.1
billion into AI in the quarter—half of all VC investment for the time period.
But the past few weeks have shown more and more organizations doubting the
(More...)
Snug but unsafe: your heater may be harming your health. What are your safest choices?
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 04:53:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
‘The horses don’t choose to take part’: should equestrian sports be removed from the Olympics?
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 04:54:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/article/2024/jul/31/the-horses-dont-choose-to-take-part-should-equestrian-sports-be-removed-from-the-olympics>
"The video begins with a warning: “Some viewers may find the following footage
distressing.” Then there is the sound: the whoosh and crack of a whip.
(More...)
From microbes to mammals: we tracked the rapid rise of new ecosystems as glaciers retreat and ice sheets melt
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 04:55:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/from-microbes-to-mammals-we-tracked-the-rapid-rise-of-new-ecosystems-as-glaciers-retreat-and-ice-sheets-melt-235687>
"As global temperatures inch upwards year after year, the world’s glaciers
retreat. These rivers of ice and the even larger ice sheets which cover
Greenland and Antarctica are melting – and the melt is speeding up.
(More...)
Why the next ride you share could be in an electric car
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 04:55:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/08/01/why-the-next-ride-you-share-could-be-in-an-electric-car/>
"Another 500 electric vehicles will be offered to Australian ride-share drivers
as part of a $20 million government investment in cutting emissions from the
growing industry.
(More...)
Barcelona rolls out first EV chargers powered by regenerative train braking
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 11:11:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/08/01/barcelona-rolls-out-first-ev-chargers-powered-by-regenerative-train-braking/>
"The Spanish city of Barcelona has rolled out the first electric vehicle (EV)
50kW fast-charging locations that will be powered by rooftop solar and from the
energy derived from the braking of trains on the city’s Metro trainline.
(More...)
Labour’s ‘rooftop revolution’ to deliver solar power to millions of UK homes
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 11:13:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/13/labours-rooftop-revolution-to-deliver-solar-power-to-millions-of-uk-homes>
"Keir Starmer’s Labour government unveils plans for a “rooftop revolution”
today that will see millions more homes fitted with solar panels in order to
bring down domestic energy bills and tackle the climate crisis.
(More...)
Nuclear plant trips due to fire, and battery storage steps in to stabilise the grid
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 11:14:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/nuclear-plant-trips-due-to-fire-and-battery-storage-steps-in-to-stabilises-the-grid/>
"What happens when a giant nuclear power station suddenly goes off line? It’s a
question that market operators have to ask themselves all the time, and one
that the Coalition might want to put should its fanciful nuclear plan every
(More...)
Magma and hot rocks: Iceland seeks the future of geothermal energy
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 11:15:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/geothermal/magma-and-hot-rocks-iceland-seeks-the-future-of-geothermal-energy>
"REYKJAVÍK, Iceland — The signs of Iceland’s geothermal riches are hard to
miss. Earlier this summer, bright orange lava sprayed like a fountain and
flowed like a river from an active volcano, visible from miles away. Out on
(More...)
Quit the quarry mentality or miss the green iron opportunity
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 11:15:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/quit-the-quarry-mentality-or-miss-the-green-iron-opportunity-report-warns/>
"If steelmaking was a country it would be the third-biggest emitter after the
United States and China, which puts Australian iron ore on notice.
(More...)
Remote social housing to get $10m efficient electric heating and cooling
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 11:16:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://onestepoffthegrid.com.au/remote-social-housing-to-get-10m-efficient-electric-heating-and-cooling/>
"Social housing residents in the Northern Territory will benefit from a $10
million government aid package focused on tackling cooling and heating
efficiency through the installation of electric reverse cycle air conditioners.
(More...)
Schoolchildren Are Reviving Slovenia’s Sustainable Culinary Heritage
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 19:13:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/schoolchildren-slovenia-sustainable-culinary-heritage/>
"Ten-year-old Erik will be a mechanic when he grows up, but in the meantime,
he’s putting his practical skills to the test by reviving half-forgotten
traditional recipes. With seven of his classmates, he regularly bakes and cooks
(More...)
Quantum microscopy study makes electrons visible in slow motion
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 19:14:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://phys.org/news/2024-07-quantum-microscopy-electrons-visible-motion.html>
"Physicists at the University of Stuttgart under the leadership of Prof.
Sebastian Loth are developing quantum microscopy which enables them for the
first time to record the movement of electrons at the atomic level with both
(More...)
In Thailand, Farmers Are Using an App to Reduce Smog
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 19:15:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/thailand-farmers-burning-fields-reduce-smog-app/>
"On a warm spring day in Chiang Mai, Thailand, a thick blanket of gray smog
covers the city. The surrounding Khun Tan mountains are obscured by a dense
haze, and residents are urged to stay indoors. Outside of an unassuming
(More...)
Review: Inheritors of the Earth by Chris D. Thomas
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 19:18:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://sammatey.substack.com/p/review-inheritors-of-the-earth-by
'Since I was a little kid, I’ve been fascinated by environmental questions;
this newsletter is about the relationship between humanity and its biosphere,
after all. One of the sub-fields of environmental science that never made quite
(More...)
Nearly 25% of Major Fashion Brands Lack a Decarbonization Plan, Report Finds
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 19:19:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.ecowatch.com/fashion-brands-decarbonization-plans.html
"A new report by Fashion Revolution —
What Fuels Fashion? 2024 Edition — has
found that nearly a quarter of the biggest fashion brands in the world — like
DKNY, Tom Ford and Reebok — have no public decarbonization plan.
(More...)
Plastic recycling: A panacea or environmental pollution problem
Sat, 24 Aug 2024 19:20:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nature.com/articles/s44296-024-00024-w
"Increasing plastic waste is a critical global challenge to ecological and
human health requiring focused solutions to reduce omnipresent plastic
pollution in the environment. While recycling has been touted as one solution
(More...)
Restoring logged forests doesn’t mean locking them up as ‘wilderness’ – it means actively managing them
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 05:08:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/restoring-logged-forests-doesnt-mean-locking-them-up-as-wilderness-it-means-actively-managing-them-232140>
"On January 1 this year, the commercial logging of native forests ended in
Victoria and Western Australia. It was one of the most significant changes in
the history of forest management in Australia.
(More...)
Democrats pitch No Kings Act to override supreme court’s Trump immunity ruling
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 05:09:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/aug/01/no-kings-act-trump-immunity-supreme-court>
"Chuck Schumer will introduce a bill in the Senate today to declare explicitly
that presidents do not have immunity from criminal conduct, overriding last
month’s supreme court ruling that Donald Trump has some immunity for his
(More...)
Rupert Murdoch’s succession plan reveals a lot about his empire – and most of it is not pretty
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 05:10:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/rupert-murdochs-succession-plan-reveals-a-lot-about-his-empire-and-most-of-it-is-not-pretty-235583>
"Rupert Murdoch’s attempt to continue controlling his company from beyond the
grave would be better labelled Project Hegemony, than Harmony, because it’s
designed to cement one sibling’s dominance over the others and shield the
(More...)
Imagining the endgame of the US-China rivalry
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 05:12:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://engelsbergideas.com/essays/imagining-the-endgame-of-the-us-china-rivalry/>
"The American rivalry with China continues to deepen, characterised on both
sides by zero-sum expectations and paranoia. Tensions are rising over Taiwan
and the South China Sea. There is an increasingly bitter contest for the
(More...)
Cultural clashes can make it harder for immigrants to parent. Better support can improve their child’s mental health
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 05:13:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/cultural-clashes-can-make-it-harder-for-immigrants-to-parent-better-support-can-improve-their-childs-mental-health-229907>
"More than 10% of children and young people worldwide have a diagnosable mental
health problem. If these problems are not detected and treated, children may
suffer the same or other mental health problems in adulthood.
(More...)
Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 05:14:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/13/magazine/robert-putnam-interview.html
"More than two decades ago, Robert Putnam became something rare: a celebrity
academic. In 2000, he published a groundbreaking book, “Bowling Alone: The
Collapse and Revival of American Community,” in which he demonstrated, with
(More...)
Artificial intelligence is taking the consulting industry by storm – should we be concerned?
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 12:32:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/artificial-intelligence-is-taking-the-consulting-industry-by-storm-should-we-be-concerned-232149>
"Artificial intelligence (AI) is enjoying a long moment in the spotlight. But
debate continues over whether it’s a “shortcut to utopia” or possible harbinger
of the end of the world.
(More...)
How to Raise Your Artificial Intelligence: A Conversation with Alison Gopnik and Melanie Mitchell
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 12:33:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/how-to-raise-your-artificial-intelligence-a-conversation-with-alison-gopnik-and-melanie-mitchell/>
"A GROWING FEAR and excitement for today’s AI systems stem from the assumption
that as they improve, something—someone?—will emerge: feed large language
models (LLMs) enough text and, rather than merely extracting statistical
(More...)
Giant pangolin rediscovered in Senegal
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 12:34:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/giant-pangolin-rediscovered-in-senegal-235551>
"In March 2023, temperatures in eastern Senegal soared to 40°C, with the
cooling rains still months away. Yet, for the dedicated field team from the NGO
Panthera – committed to global feline conservation – and the Direction des
(More...)
Antarctic temperatures rise 10C above average in near record heatwave
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 12:35:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/aug/01/antarctic-temperatures-rise-10c-above-average-in-near-record-heatwave>
"Ground temperatures across great swathes of the ice sheets of Antarctica have
soared an average of 10C above normal over the past month, in what has been
described as a near record heatwave.
(More...)
Study finds major Earth systems likely on track to collapse: 5 things to know
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 12:36:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/4806281-climate-change-earth-systems-collapse-risk-study/>
"Four key pillars of the global climate are melting in the heat trapped by
rising fossil fuel emissions, a new study has found.
(More...)
Stigma around same-sex marriage affected Australians’ health. Here’s what happened in your electorate
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 12:37:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/stigma-around-same-sex-marriage-affected-australians-health-heres-what-happened-in-your-electorate-234357>
"Community-level opposition to marriage equality and the stress that came with
it is still making some Australians in same-sex relationships sick years after
the vote, our study suggests.
(More...)
Kids’ sport always cancelled due to rain-soaked grounds? Green infrastructure can help
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 19:29:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/kids-sport-always-cancelled-due-to-rain-soaked-grounds-green-infrastructure-can-help-235109>
"It’s been a rainy winter in many parts of Australia, wreaking havoc on kids’
sporting competitions. As mums, it has been frustrating to see so many of our
kids’ sport matches (and training sessions) cancelled because of waterlogged
(More...)
Sims 4 Updates To Include ‘Safe To Stream’ Setting Because Copyright Is Broken
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 19:30:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2024/07/31/sims-4-updates-to-include-safe-to-stream-setting-because-copyright-is-broken/>
"It’s been a decade or so since one of the silliest ways to combat the symptom
of a broken copyright system came to be: safe streaming settings in video
games. Because of the way licensing works for the musical compositions in video
(More...)
Transphobes Now Attacking Cis Women* For Participating In The Olympics
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 19:31:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.wonkette.com/p/transphobes-now-attacking-cis-women
"Algerian boxer Imane Khelif is a cis woman. She was, as they say, “assigned
female at birth.”
(More...)
Ride a bus, take a package with you – how crowdshipping reduces the impacts of millions of deliveries
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 19:32:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ride-a-bus-take-a-package-with-you-how-crowdshipping-reduces-the-impacts-of-millions-of-deliveries-234556>
"With the rise in e-commerce, 161 billion parcels were delivered worldwide in
2022, doubling in just four years. In Australia, more households are shopping
online than ever before. In 2023, 5.6 million households made a monthly online
(More...)
"I Mask" images
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 19:35:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://sfba.social/@jeridansky/112893555594554934
'Per @augieray "A guy named Scott Squires has an entire online directory full
of 'I mask' images, including both poster and Instagram sizes. Free for you to
use!"
(More...)
Giant, Sparkly Clams Hide the Most Efficient Solar Panels Ever Found
Sun, 25 Aug 2024 19:36:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/most-efficient-solar-panels-ever-have-been-found-in-giant-sparkly-clams/>
"In the shallow tropical reefs off Palau lie what at first glimpse look like
unremarkable, albeit huge, clams in the genus
Tridacna. But a peek at the
undulous innards tucked between their four-foot-long shells reveals sparkly
(More...)
21-Year-Old Maori Woman Who Became New Zealand's Youngest MP Performed The Haka In Her First Speech
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:43:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://iv.melmac.space/watch?v=TWFeIYveDFI
"In a groundbreaking moment in New Zealand’s political history, 21-year-old
Māori woman Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke became the country’s youngest member of
parliament in 170 years, delivering a powerful maiden speech.
(More...)
Friday essay: love and loss in outer space – Ceridwen Dovey on how scientists feel about space objects
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:44:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-love-and-loss-in-outer-space-ceridwen-dovey-on-how-scientists-feel-about-space-objects-228406>
"For many years now, through writing fictional stories and making experimental
films, I have been trying to see things from the point of view of space objects
– real ones that have been launched by humans into outer space.
(More...)
First Mover Advantage Shows How Copyright Isn’t Necessary To Protect Innovative Creativity
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:45:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2024/08/01/first-move-advantage-shows-how-copyright-isnt-necessary-to-protect-innovative-creativity/>
"One of the arguments sometimes made in defense of copyright is that without
it, creators would be unable to compete with the hordes of copycats that would
spring up as soon as their works became popular. Copyright is needed,
(More...)
Letters from an American: August 1, 2024
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:46:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/august-1-2024
"“This is a very good afternoon,” President Joe Biden said today. “[A] very
good afternoon.”
(More...)
Big renewables need big support: Local Energy Hubs can help us through the change
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:48:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/big-renewables-need-big-support-local-energy-hubs-can-help-us-through-the-change/>
"This week, a new report highlighted strong support for the shift to renewable
energy among Australians. However, it also found that this support is
softening.
(More...)
Honest Government Ad | FOI Laws
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:49:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6O7gHI5YKA
"The Government has made an ad about our Freedom of Information laws, and it’s
surprisingly honest and informative."
(More...)
Investment giant faces fine in first greenwashing action brought by ASIC
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:35:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/investment-giant-faces-fine-in-first-greenwashing-action-brought-by-asic/>
"Investment giant Vanguard could be forced to pay fines approaching its entire
annual profit after admitting to misleading investors in a landmark
greenwashing case.
(More...)
Bright Green Futures Ep 16: The Shapes of Stories with Author Tashan Mehta
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:36:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://brightgreenfutures.substack.com/p/ep-16-the-shapes-of-stories-with>
"I'm your host, Susan K Quinn, and we're here to lift up stories about a more
sustainable and just world and talk about the struggle to get there. Today,
we're going to talk with Tashan Mehta, who I discovered through her amazing
(More...)
The US-Russia prisoner swap shows how journalists risk being used as geopolitical bargaining chips
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:38:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-us-russia-prisoner-swap-shows-how-journalists-risk-being-used-as-geopolitical-bargaining-chips-236052>
"The photo of returning prisoners in an American plane, all grinning from ear
to ear, says it all: the joy, the relief and the success of an incredibly
complicated mission.
(More...)
Japan's extreme heat is causing a rethink of school sports
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:41:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/LwS7a
"Nearly half a century ago when Atsushi Aoki was around the age of his
students, the mercury rarely climbed above 35 degrees Celsius, a benchmark the
Japan Meteorological Agency uses to describe “extremely hot” weather.
(More...)
Ukraine’s death-defying art rescuers
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:43:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/30/ukraine-death-defying-art-rescuers>
"In early March 2022, when his country seemed in danger of falling to the
Russians, it occurred to Leonid Marushchak, a historian by training, to call
the director of a museum in eastern Ukraine to check that a collection of
(More...)
Why are Australians in denial about how cold our homes really are? ‘Winter stoicism’ is partly to blame
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:44:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/commentisfree/article/2024/aug/02/why-are-australians-in-denial-about-how-cold-our-homes-really-are-winter-stoicism-is-partly-to-blame>
"Australians often fall victim to national mythologies. Whether it’s indulging
stereotypes of Aussie machismo by telling tourists our one huntsman story,
declaring we’re a very successful multicultural country during a time of racial
(More...)
Australia's South Korean adoption partner falsified adoptee records to bring children to Australia
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:23:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-03/korean-adoptees-falsification-forced-adoption-allegations/104176418>
"Australia's adoption partner in South Korea falsified documents while sending
thousands of children to Australia, a
Background Briefing investigation has
found.
(More...)
‘This is climate change’: Scottish beach eroding by 7 metres a year
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:23:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/03/scottish-beach-eroding-by-7-metres-a-year-montrose-climate-change>
"A beach in north-east Scotland is eroding rapidly owing to climate change,
leaving a town at risk of flooding and its centuries-old golf links crumbling
into the sea.
(More...)
As wildfires rage, what is the smoke doing to our health and bodies?
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:24:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/31/wildfire-smoke-health-dangers-explained>
"As dozens of wildfires rage across the US and Canada, blackening the skies
once again this summer, scientists are revealing even more about how dangerous
wildfire smoke is for our health.
(More...)
A Planning Revolution in Bratislava Puts Kids at the Center
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:26:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-06-26/bratislava-pushes-child-friendly-design-to-tame-sprawl-boost-livability>
"The center of Bratislava doesn’t necessarily look like a place that needs a
child-friendly makeover. A handsome city of just under half a million
straddling the River Danube, Slovakia’s capital already has a gentle,
(More...)
New Research Protecting Victorians From Poor Air Quality
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:27:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/new-research-protecting-victorians-poor-air-quality>
"The Allan Labor Government is making sure Victorians are protected from
airborne infections, pollution, bushfire smoke and a changing climate with
support for a new research project.
(More...)
The results of the biggest study on guaranteed income programs are finally in
Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:29:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://19thnews.org/2024/07/study-guaranteed-income-program-results/
"For eight years, researchers have been quietly putting together the largest,
most comprehensive study on programs that give people a monthly stream of cash
— no strings attached. Over time, does that income transform people’s lives?
(More...)
Rising and shining: one woman’s mission to demystify the baking of bread
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:47:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/rising-and-shining-one-womans-mission-to-demystify-the-baking-of-bread/>
"Kitty Tait’s to-do list reads like a continental breakfast spread. Pistachio
twirls, flaky croissants, bow-shaped pastries. She’s beating butter as we chat.
Folding and rolling croissant dough on repeat. Getting into her baker’s flow
(More...)
Six new sites added to UNESCO World Heritage list following IUCN recommendations
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:48:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://iucn.org/news/202407/six-new-sites-added-unesco-world-heritage-list-following-iucn-recommendations>
"The announcement came today during the 46th session of the UNESCO World
Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India.
(More...)
British airlines forced to fly planes to US for repairs because of Brexit rules
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:50:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/OEj8v
"British airlines are being forced to fly planes to the United States for
slower and more expensive repairs instead of Europe because of Brexit rules.
(More...)
China shows off ocean protection progress
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:51:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://dialogue.earth/en/digest/china-shows-off-ocean-protection-progress/>
"In a white paper, the State Council Information Office has outlined China’s
progress in marine law, pollution control, ecological restoration, low-carbon
development, and other ocean-related topics.
(More...)
Mum's anger over Game of Thrones passport mix-up
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:53:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4ng1xd06xwo
'A woman was left "devastated" after her daughter's passport application was
rejected because she was named after a Game of Thrones character.
(More...)
EcoFlow’s Power Hat is a floppy, phone-charging solar panel for your noggin
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:54:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/3/24212686/ecoflow-power-hat-solar-powered-hat-usb-c-charger-smartphone>
"EcoFlow’s new Power Hat must be the dorkiest piece of headgear I’ve ever heard
of — and I think I love it? It’s a wide-brimmed floppy-ish sun hat full of
solar cells that you can charge your phone with. EcoFlow says it can charge a
(More...)
Can drones help save Wales' most threatened bird?
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:39:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4nnpqdj3p1o
'Drones have been buzzing over Welsh wetlands this year as researchers try to
find curlew nests and save the upland wader from extinction.
(More...)
Planting English trees to protect the Peruvian rainforest
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:40:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/planting-english-trees-to-protect-peruvian-rainforest/>
"On the surface, the ancestral rainforest territory of the Wampis people of
north-eastern Peru bears little resemblance to the English county of
Herefordshire. Yet the areas are inextricably linked, thanks to the grit of a
(More...)
Colombia’s president signs bill to ban bullfighting in the South American country
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:41:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/colombia-bullfighting-ban-a7b7d0a8f87abef0e79c4eec693af574>
"BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AP) — Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Monday signed a
bill that bans bullfights in the South American country, further reducing the
short list of nations around the world where the centuries-old tradition is
(More...)
Utah’s Great Salt Lake rings climate alarm bells over release of 4.1m tons of carbon dioxide
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:42:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/aug/02/great-salt-lake-shrinking-greenhouse-gas-emissions>
"For years, scientists and environmental leaders have been raising alarm that
the Great Salt Lake is headed toward a catastrophic decline.
(More...)
I avoided plastic for a week. Here is what I learned about a plastic-free life
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:43:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/2024/07/26/nx-s1-5021546/plastic-free-sustainable-living-tips>
"Americans, on average, toss out about three quarters of a pound of plastic
each day, according to researchers at Oxford University. Most of that trash
winds up in a landfill.
(More...)
From Scotland to Malawi: climate survivors are rebuilding with world first loss and damage fund
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:48:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/article/2024/jul/31/loss-and-damage-how-the-first-climate-survivors-to-receive-funds-are-rebuilding-their-lives-in-malawi>
"Gladys Austin is a climate disaster survivor. In March last year the
39-year-old mother of six stood in ankle-deep water in the room where her
family slept. She tried to stay calm as the relentless rain battered her home.
(More...)
Hope springs in old-growth forests with new federal Spotted Owl recovery strategy
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 18:41:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.wildernesscommittee.org/news/hope-springs-old-growth-forests-new-federal-spotted-owl-recovery-strategy>
"VANCOUVER / UNCEDED xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh AND səlilwətaɬ TERRITORIES —
Today spotted owl advocates celebrate the federal government’s release of an
updated draft recovery strategy that identifies over 400,000 hectares of
(More...)
Australia must treat housing as a human right, says former Victorian Supreme Court judge
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 18:44:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-04/housing-is-a-human-right-says-former-vic-supreme-court-judge/104179612>
'Is Australia's housing situation a crisis?
Kevin Bell, a former Victorian Supreme Court justice, says it's worse than a
(More...)
Polluted Lakes Are Being Cleansed Using Floating Wetlands Made of Trash
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 18:46:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
The World's Greatest Places of 2024
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 18:48:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://time.com/collection/worlds-greatest-places-2024/
"Travel industry trends often reflect the id of humanity: what the collective
we desires most when unburdened from daily stressors and responsibilities. In
2024, that includes other-worldly art and design, like at China's Aranya;
(More...)
Dawn Chorus
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 18:50:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://explore.dawn-chorus.org/
"Many bird species are so-called indicator species as they provide information
about different properties of a habitat. Long-term collections of early-morning
bird sound recordings can thus help us to detect changes in habitats, for
(More...)
Meet Europe’s Big Five: wolf, lynx, brown bear, wolverine & bison
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 18:51:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://geographical.co.uk/news/meet-europes-big-five-wolf-lynx-brown-bear-wolverine-bison>
"In the dappled light at the edge of the woodland there’s a movement. Just a
hint of the grass parting. If anything, it’s just a sense of movement and then,
for just a moment, all is still. Even the scream of the cicadas seems to pause.
(More...)
South Africa passes its first sweeping climate change law
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 04:53:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/south-africa-passes-its-first-sweeping-climate-change-law-2024-07-23/>
'JOHANNESBURG, July 23 (
Reuters) - South African President Cyril Ramaphosa
has signed into law a broad climate change act that will set caps for large
emitters and require every town and city to publish an adaptation plan.
(More...)
Pour One Out
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 04:55:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://slate.com/technology/2023/04/alcohol-wine-drinking-healthy-dangerous-study.html>
"In 1991 an academic debate spilled out of ivory towers and into the popular
imagination. That year, Serge Renaud, a celebrated and charismatic alcohol
researcher at the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research—who
(More...)
Faced with dwindling bee colonies, scientists are arming queens with robots and smart hives
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 04:57:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://northeastbylines.co.uk/news/science/faced-with-dwindling-bee-colonies-scientists-are-arming-queens-with-robots-and-smart-hives/>
"Be it the news or the dwindling number of creatures hitting your windscreens,
it will not have evaded you that the insect world’s in bad shape. In the last
three decades, the global biomass of flying insects has shrunk by 75%. Among
(More...)
Why Even Make Video Games Anymore?
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 04:58:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.thegamer.com/video-game-developers-laid-off-why-industry/
"Why even make video games anymore? No, really. Why? We’ve hit another week and
another massive layoff, this time from a company that makes one of the biggest
games on Earth,
Destiny 2. Oh, and this follows that very same company laying
(More...)
Hope or hype? NZ needs to be realistic about the clean energy potential of green hydrogen
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 04:59:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/hope-or-hype-nz-needs-to-be-realistic-about-the-clean-energy-potential-of-green-hydrogen-234137>
"The recent failure of a deal to deliver hydrogen-powered trucks to New
Zealand, and the removal of a NZ$100 million government rebate scheme for green
hydrogen users in the 2024 budget, make a transition to the much-lauded energy
(More...)
One of Australia’s most expensive commutes becomes the cheapest, as Queensland’s 50c public transport trial begins
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 05:00:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Hawaii's beaches are disappearing: The uncertain future of Oahu's iconic Waikiki
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 11:59:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/2024/08/01/hawaii-beaches-climate-change/74624517007/>
"OAHU, Hawaii — Hawaii’s most famous coastline, Waikiki Beach, is not going to
be the same in the next 50 years.
(More...)
With Bangladesh on a knife’s edge, trapped Rohingya refugees are forced to turn to people smugglers or violent gangs
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:00:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/with-bangladesh-on-a-knifes-edge-trapped-rohingya-refugees-are-forced-to-turn-to-people-smugglers-or-violent-gangs-235676>
"Mass protests have rocked Bangladesh over the past few weeks. The military was
deployed to the streets with shoot-on-sight orders. News agencies have reported
some 266 deaths, with 7,000 people injured and more than 10,000 arrested.
(More...)
‘It’s like a gift from God’: the program letting Melbourne’s long-term homeless catch their breath
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:01:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/aug/05/its-like-a-gift-from-god-the-program-letting-melbournes-long-term-homeless-catch-their-breath>
"For Theodore, it’s the little things: watching the AFL on the couch, cooking a
green curry, closing the front door of the small community apartment he rents
in Melbourne’s inner north, knowing he is safe.
(More...)
Former Sea Shepherd captain Paul Watson arrested on a Japanese warrant from 2012 – what next?
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:04:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/former-sea-shepherd-captain-paul-watson-arrested-on-a-japanese-warrant-from-2012-what-next-235965>
"Sea Shepherd founder and anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been arrested
in Greenland and awaits potential extradition to Japan.
(More...)
Kamala Harris is the worst nightmare of America’s far right
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:05:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/jul/30/kamala-harris-donald-trump-women-gender>
"When Joe Biden stepped down in support of Kamala Harris, he didn’t just pass
the torch to another generation. He passed it from old white men to America’s
future.
(More...)
More than half of NSW’s forests and woodlands are gone as ongoing logging increases extinction risks, study shows
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:06:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/more-than-half-of-nsws-forests-and-woodlands-are-gone-as-ongoing-logging-increases-extinction-risks-study-shows-235416>
"Since European colonisation, 29 million hectares (54%) of the forests and
woodlands that once existed in New South Wales have been destroyed. A further 9
million ha have been degraded in the past two centuries. This amounts to more
(More...)
‘That’s my car, you fascist thugs’: far-right rampage engulfs Middlesbrough
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 19:42:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Whooping cough can be deadly for young babies. Vaccination is our best defence
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 20:06:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/whooping-cough-can-be-deadly-for-young-babies-vaccination-is-our-best-defence-235527>
"So far in 2024 there have been more than 17,000 cases of whooping cough
(pertussis) across Australia. This is well above our usual national average.
It’s already six times more cases than we saw in all of 2023.
(More...)
Rioters try to torch Rotherham asylum seeker hotel amid far-right violence
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 20:19:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/article/2024/aug/04/rioters-try-to-torch-rotherham-asylum-seeker-hotel-amid-far-right-violence>
"A far-right-led mob of masked rioters tried to set fire to a hotel housing
asylum seekers as further violence flared across the country at
anti-immigration protests.
(More...)
For female athletes of color, scrutiny around gender rules and identity part of long trend
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 20:24:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.politico.com/news/2024/08/04/female-athletes-of-color-gender-00172592>
"PARIS — Overcome with emotion, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif left the ring in
tears after a resounding victory this weekend. Khelif has faced days of hateful
comments and false accusations about her gender following her first fight
(More...)
As race riots escalate, British PM threatens dire consequences
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 20:26:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.politico.eu/article/uk-british-pm-far-right-riot-race-keir-starmer-law-yvette-cooper-britain-mosques-muslim-violence-hate-southport/>
"British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned far right rioting which has seen
gangs burn buildings, attack Muslims and ethnic minorities and clash with
police over the weekend.
(More...)
TIA researchers developing new technology called QUOLL that can sniff soil to detect its quality in rapid time
Wed, 28 Aug 2024 20:30:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
“Disgraceful:” Bowen demands answers as social media giants remove EV and nuclear articles
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 04:45:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/disgraceful-bowen-demands-answers-as-social-media-giants-remove-ev-and-nuclear-articles/>
"Federal energy and climate minister Chris Bowen has demanded answers from
social media giants, and Facebook owner Meta in particular, after a series of
articles supportive of electric vehicles and critical of the federal
(More...)
Electric hot water could tame the solar duck, boost renewables and save billions
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 04:48:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://onestepoffthegrid.com.au/electric-hot-water-could-tame-the-solar-duck-boost-renewables-and-save-billions/>
"Switching off-peak electric hot water to the middle of the day, instead of the
middle of the night, could help tame the solar duck while also slashing gas
emissions and avoiding the curtailment of thousands of gigawatt-hours worth of
(More...)
Sunday Sweets Celebrates All Things CANDY
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 04:49:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.cakewrecks.com/home/sunday-sweets-celebrates-all-things-candy-2024>
"John decided to watch the Johnny Depp
Willy Wonka movie earlier this week,
and I decided I was too lazy to leave the room. The movie is... fine? But I'll
always prefer Gene Wilder as Wonka - even with that traumatizing boat scene.
(More...)
‘ELIMINATED’: Israel Brags Of Killing Noted Al Jazeera Journalist In Gaza
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 04:50:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/eliminated-ismail-al-ghoul-rami-al-rifi-israel-air-strike_n_66ac0c01e4b037c1f37e7df4>
"A day after an Israeli air strike killed a noted Al Jazeera journalist and his
cameraman, the Israeli army acknowledged killing the reporters — and indicated
the strike was purposeful.
(More...)
Ancient poppy seeds and willow wood offer clues to the Greenland ice sheet’s last meltdown and a glimpse into a warmer future
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 04:51:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ancient-poppy-seeds-and-willow-wood-offer-clues-to-the-greenland-ice-sheets-last-meltdown-and-a-glimpse-into-a-warmer-future-233183>
"As we focused our microscope on the soil sample for the first time, bits of
organic material came into view: a tiny poppy seed, the compound eye of an
insect, broken willow twigs and spikemoss spores. Dark-colored spheres produced
(More...)
Misinformation, abuse and injustice: breaking down the Olympic boxing firestorm
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 04:52:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/misinformation-abuse-and-injustice-breaking-down-the-olympic-boxing-firestorm-236061>
"In a preliminary women’s under 66kg boxing match at the Paris Olympics last
week between Algerian Imane Khelif and Italian Angela Carini, a powerful punch
to the face resulted in Carini withdrawing after 46 seconds.
(More...)
Mobile factory makes Lego-style mortarless building bricks from rubble
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:31:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://newatlas.com/technology/mobile-factory-convert-into-bricks/
"If there’s one thing wars are good at, it’s turning buildings into rubble. But
this mobile manufacturing machine does the reverse, turning rubble from
destroyed buildings into bricks – bricks which can be stacked and joined
(More...)
Disguised ships and front companies: how North Korea has evaded sanctions to grow a global weapons industry
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:32:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/disguised-ships-and-front-companies-how-north-korea-has-evaded-sanctions-to-grow-a-global-weapons-industry-232716>
"It may not have attracted much attention in recent months with global
attention focused elsewhere. But the international sanctions monitoring regime
on North Korea has been disbanded, raising concerns about the unimpeded flow of
(More...)
Public outrage is not enough: NZ needs to develop a legal remedy for cultural misappropriation
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:33:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/public-outrage-is-not-enough-nz-needs-to-develop-a-legal-remedy-for-cultural-misappropriation-235858>
"From Formula 1 clothing lines to baby products, a variety of businesses have
come under fire for allegedly using Māori cultural imagery and language without
context or permission. But it doesn’t stop there.
(More...)
No 10 criticises Elon Musk for ‘civil war is inevitable’ post on England riots
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:34:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/article/2024/aug/05/no-10-criticises-elon-musk-post-x-riots>
"Downing Street has criticised comments by Elon Musk who posted on X that
“civil war is inevitable” under a video of violent riots in Liverpool.
(More...)
‘It made me cry’: photos taken 15 years apart show melting Swiss glaciers
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:35:38 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/06/it-made-me-cry-photos-taken-15-years-apart-show-melting-swiss-glaciers>
"A tourist has posted “staggering” photos of himself and his wife at the same
spot in the Swiss Alps almost exactly 15 years apart, in a pair of photos that
highlight the speed with which global heating is melting glaciers.
(More...)
The rise of the ‘machine defendant’ – who’s to blame when an AI makes mistakes?
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 11:36:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-rise-of-the-machine-defendant-whos-to-blame-when-an-ai-makes-mistakes-235019>
"Few industries remain untouched by the potential for transformation through
artificial intelligence (AI) – or at least the hype.
(More...)
Soft plastics, glass bins and bans on compostable liners: will Victoria’s new recycling proposal be a step forward?
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 19:51:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/soft-plastics-glass-bins-and-bans-on-compostable-liners-will-victorias-new-recycling-proposal-be-a-step-forward-235513>
"In recent years, the question of what to do with our household waste has
become more pressing. In 2018, China stopped accepting many types of recyclable
plastic waste from Australia. Four years later, Australia’s main soft plastics
(More...)
My Experience After One Year of Going Full "EV"
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 19:53:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.freedium.cfd/https://medium.com/the-partnered-pen/my-experience-after-one-year-of-going-full-ev-d28a3bd7f4f2>
"I'm not sure why, but I'd always wanted to go electric.
Like most blokes, I've always loved cars. So much so that I even decided to
(More...)
Social media algorithms are shrouded in secrecy. We’re trying to change that
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 19:54:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/social-media-algorithms-are-shrouded-in-secrecy-were-trying-to-change-that-236057>
"Over the past 20 years, social media has transformed how we communicate, share
information and form social connections. A federal parliamentary committee is
currently trying to come to grips with these changes, and work out what to do
(More...)
Uber to target second hand electric cars from Japan in Australian trial
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 19:58:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/08/06/uber-to-target-second-hand-electric-cars-from-japan-in-australian-trial/>
"More rides and deliveries could take place in second-hand electric vehicles if
a pilot program launched by Uber takes off in Australia.
(More...)
Why Is Everybody So Angry These Days?
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 19:59:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.freedium.cfd/https://medium.com/publishous/why-is-everybody-so-angry-these-days-69ae682a0eb0>
"I found out by accident that one of my neighbors had been arrested. My partner
was talking with a contractor about building a pavilion, and when the
contractor learned where we lived, he said, "Check out this video from your
(More...)
The obscure Russian-linked ‘news’ outlet fuelling violence on Britain’s streets
Thu, 29 Aug 2024 20:00:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/08/03/obscure-russian-linked-news-outlet-fuelling-violence/>
"Before the fire and fury in Southport, there was a name – Ali Al-Shakati.
Al-Shakati has never existed, we now know, but that didn’t stop an obscure,
(More...)
How a monk and a Hippo joined forces to tackle Bangkok’s plastic pollution
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 03:28:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/05/thailand-bangkok-plastic-pollution-chao-praya-river-abbot-buddhist-seven-clean-seas-hippo>
"“Once upon a time this river was filled with fish; now, nothing swims in it
any more,” says Wat Chak Daeng temple’s abbot, Phra Mahapranom Dhammalangkaro,
as he looks out over Bangkok’s Chao Praya River.
(More...)
This apartment building needed new balcony railings. So the landlord put in solar panels
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 03:30:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.thestar.com/real-estate/this-apartment-building-needed-new-balcony-railings-so-the-landlord-put-in-solar-panels/article_3dadd012-3327-11ef-92a6-9fd197b72ef9.html>
"The facade of the 1960s-era apartment block on Wilson Avenue is showing its
age, with weather stains on the white bricks and residents complaining that
rain leaks in around the windows.
(More...)
Months after student strikes for climate action, some teachers still find the topic 'too controversial' to tackle
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 03:32:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-07/climate-change-education-school-teachers-students/104183462>
'In a primary school on Melbourne's outer suburban fringe, a group of grade six
students is teaching children from a local kinder about marine pollution.
(More...)
From climate change to landfill, AI promises to solve Earth’s big environmental problems – but there’s a hitch
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 03:33:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/from-climate-change-to-landfill-ai-promises-to-solve-earths-big-environmental-problems-but-theres-a-hitch-235011>
"Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised our lives in myriad ways, from
personalising our social media feeds to giving us driving directions and
monitoring our health.
(More...)
Elected officials in sweltering US states prioritizing fossil fuel cash over people
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 03:34:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jun/21/us-states-heatwave-fossil-fuel-money>
"Elected officials in states baking under sweltering temperatures – including
Florida, Texas and Louisiana – are prioritizing their donors from
planet-warming industries instead of protecting their constituents, advocates
(More...)
The government is under pressure to ban gambling ads. History shows half-measures don’t work
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 03:35:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Pig-nosed turtle and Pugh’s frog among new species added to Australia’s endangered species list
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:31:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/07/pig-nosed-turtle-among-over-a-dozen-new-species-added-to-australias-list-of-endangered-species>
"Another 13 animals and plants have been added to Australia’s list of
threatened species, sparking renewed calls for the federal government to
quickly overhaul the country’s nature laws.
(More...)
Pollution affecting pollinators and other beneficial insects, study finds
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:33:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2024-08-07/significant-reduction-in-pollination-due-to-air-pollution/104136136>
'Bees and other bugs crucial to a diverse ecosystem experience a significant
decline in performance after exposure to polluted air, according to a new
study.
(More...)
Royal Mint starts turning e-waste into gold
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:34:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c6p2k11e41po
"The Royal Mint, maker of the UK's coins, has begun processing electronic waste
to extract gold from it.
(More...)
All-night streetlights make leaves inedible to insects, study finds
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:35:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/05/all-night-streetlights-make-leaves-inedible-to-insects-study-finds>
"Streetlights left on all night cause leaves to become so tough that insects
cannot eat them, threatening the food chain, a study has found.
(More...)
Myanmar’s junta has suffered a humiliating military defeat. Could it be a turning point in the war?
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:36:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/myanmars-junta-has-suffered-a-humiliating-military-defeat-could-it-be-a-turning-point-in-the-war-236142>
"My recent research trip to the Thai town of Mae Sot on the Myanmar border
coincided with two big events. The heavens opened for several days with the
first big rains of the monsoon season. And across the border, the Myanmar
(More...)
Overtourism Is Bringing Europe To The Point Of Revolution
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:37:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.freedium.cfd/https://medium.com/@cailiansavage1/overtourism-is-bringing-europe-to-the-point-of-revolution-d586faee37a5>
'Imagine you save thousands of dollars to go on a family vacation to Barcelona.
You look forward to seeing the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, trying delicious
food, and enjoying the fabulous Catalan climate and local hospitality.
(More...)
Can Australia end homelessness? Yes, we know how, but we must find the will to do it
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 22:28:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/can-australia-end-homelessness-yes-we-know-how-but-we-must-find-the-will-to-do-it-235879>
"The ongoing homelessness crisis in Australia is a complex social problem with
multiple causes. Such problems are very difficult to resolve. There’s no simple
solution – no “silver bullet”.
(More...)
Andes Glaciers Are The First to Shatter a Depressing Record
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 22:30:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/andes-glaciers-are-the-first-to-shatter-a-depressing-record>
'Roughly one out of every four people on Earth depends on freshwater supplied
by the glacial regions that cover 10 percent of our planet's surface.
(More...)
Love for cats lures students into this course, which uses feline research to teach science
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 22:32:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Young people brought down Bangladesh’s repressive leader. Will they now be empowered to lead real change?
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 22:33:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/young-people-brought-down-bangladeshs-repressive-leader-will-they-now-be-empowered-to-lead-real-change-236136>
"“Inni, we are independent!” my 26-year-old cousin chanted from Shahbagh, a
neighbourhood in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka, as millions joined a major protest
march on Monday to the country’s Parliament House.
(More...)
The urgent need for tougher trucking rules to protect communities around warehouses
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 22:35:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/08/06/the-urgent-need-for-tougher-trucking-rules-to-protect-communities-around-warehouses/>
"The growth of online shopping was accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, and
e-commerce revenue approximately doubled in the United States in the past 5
years.
(More...)
You might get a discount or free coffee but you’re also being played by the multi-billion dollar gamification industry
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 22:36:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/you-might-get-a-discount-or-free-coffee-but-youre-also-being-played-by-the-multi-billion-dollar-gamification-industry-235859>
"You’re scrolling through your socials and an app for an online shopping site
appears. You click the link but, before you can see any merchandise, a spinning
wheel flashes up and invites you to press the button to spin. You do and you
(More...)
China will use wind farm cameras to spy on people, cows and crops, say opponents in new conspiracy theory
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 04:33:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/china-will-use-wind-farm-cameras-to-spy-on-people-cows-and-crops-say-opponents-in-new-conspiracy-theory/>
"So here is another conspiracy theory to add to the rapidly growing list on why
wind farms should not be built in Australia: China will apparently use cameras
mounted at wind farms to spy on Australian people, cows and crops, and this
(More...)
High coral cover amid intense heatwaves and bleaching? Here’s how both can be true on the Great Barrier Reef
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 04:34:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/high-coral-cover-amid-intense-heatwaves-and-bleaching-heres-how-both-can-be-true-on-the-great-barrier-reef-235510>
"It was another difficult summer on the Great Barrier Reef. A serious marine
heatwave caused the fifth mass coral bleaching event since 2016. Intense rain
from Cyclone Jasper washed huge volumes of freshwater and sediment onto corals
(More...)
Upcoming Cybercrime Treaty Will Be Nothing But Trouble
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 04:35:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/08/07/upcoming-cybercrime-treaty-will-be-nothing-trouble>
"Cybercrime—the malicious hacking of computer networks, systems, and
data—threatens people’s rights and livelihoods, and governments need to work
together to do more to address it. But the cybercrime treaty sitting before the
(More...)
More heat waves will put more older adults in danger
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 04:36:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.futurity.org/heat-waves-older-adults-3243822/
"If you’re reading this, congratulations—you survived the world’s hottest day
ever recorded.
(More...)
She’s the New Face of Climate Activism—and She’s Carrying a Pickax
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 04:38:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.wired.com/story/climate-activism-radical-new-face-lena-lazare/>
"The atmosphere is more festival than crime scene. There’s an accordionist, and
two men in beanie hats are playing the drums. It’s a clear spring day in the
farmlands of western France. But the people gathered in this field are
(More...)
‘Best slow TV ever’: scientists mount cameras on endangered sea lions to map Australia’s ocean floor
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 04:39:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/07/australia-sea-lions-cameras-ocean-floor>
"The Australian sea lions glide and dart through underwater tunnels, over
seagrass beds and rocky reefs, searching for a meal and dancing with dolphins
around a giant bait ball of fish – all the action captured by a camera stuck on
(More...)
Financial hardship is the biggest driver of loneliness. Here’s why – and how to tackle it
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:35:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/financial-hardship-is-the-biggest-driver-of-loneliness-heres-why-and-how-to-tackle-it-236135>
"One in four Australians report feeling lonely, according to our new report
released this week from our research collaboration.
(More...)
Hottest ocean temperatures in 400 years an ‘existential threat’ to the Great Barrier Reef, researchers find
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:37:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/08/great-barrier-reef-ocean-temperatures-hottest-record>
"Ocean temperatures in the Great Barrier Reef are now the hottest in at least
400 years and are an “existential threat” to the planet’s unique natural
wonder, according to new scientific research.
(More...)
How the US election turned ‘weird’ – and why it’s working for the Democrats
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:38:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-the-us-election-turned-weird-and-why-its-working-for-the-democrats-235874>
"The Democrats have discovered a secret sauce in their campaign against Donald
Trump and the MAGA mob — suddenly media headlines are splashed with references
to “weird”. For example:
(More...)
Appeals Court Rejects DMCA Constitutional Challenge, Because Apparently Fair Use Means Nothing Good Will Ever Be Published
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:39:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2024/08/06/appeals-court-rejects-dmca-constitutional-challenge-because-apparently-fair-use-means-nothing-good-will-ever-be-published/>
"What began as an attempt to challenge the constitutionality of the DMCA’s
terrible anticircumvention provision has now backfired. A court ruling will
limit our rights to fair use and free expression in favor of Hollywood’s
(More...)
Sea lions wearing cameras and trackers map new habitats
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:41:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sea-lions-wearing-cameras-and-trackers-map-new-habitats-235956>
"Across the world’s oceans, our knowledge of the seafloor is very limited.
Mapping and studying deep, remote offshore areas is difficult, expensive and
time-consuming. So much of the ocean has not yet been explored.
(More...)
After 33 Years, GameStop Shuts Down And Disappears ‘Game Informer’
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 12:42:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2024/08/06/after-33-years-gamestop-shuts-down-and-disappears-game-informer/>
"Well this is a real punch in the gut. For years, we have been talking about a
strange lack of interest within the video game industry when it comes to game
preservation. In far, far too many cases, both single player and multiplayer
(More...)
I studied how rumours and misleading information spread on X during the Voice referendum. The results paint a worrying picture
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 19:07:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/i-studied-how-rumours-and-misleading-information-spread-on-x-during-the-voice-referendum-the-results-paint-a-worrying-picture-236220>
"When the Australian public voted last year on whether to change the
Constitution to establish an Indigenous Voice to parliament, it came after
months of intense and sometimes bitter campaigning by both the “yes” and “no”
(More...)
This Paris Olympics pool has an unusual heat source: a data center
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 19:08:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.emergingtechbrew.com/stories/2024/08/06/equinix-paris-olympics-pool-data-center>
"The only indoor facility built specifically for the Paris games is having a
watershed moment.
(More...)
200% Wolf is a visual triumph – and a reminder that Australian animators could lead on the world stage
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 19:09:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/200-wolf-is-a-visual-triumph-and-a-reminder-that-australian-animators-could-lead-on-the-world-stage-236244>
"In the past decade, Australia’s animation industry has matured well beyond its
domestic context – to the point of competing on a global scale.
(More...)
I’m an Illawarra-based marine ecologist. I want an honest discussion about offshore wind
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 19:14:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/im-an-illawarra-based-marine-ecologist-i-want-an-honest-discussion-about-offshore-wind/>
"My name is Phebe, and I’m a 26-year-old woman based in Port Kembla. The
Illawarra coastline is fundamental to my identity. It is the place I call home,
the place I learned to swim and the place I was first captivated by the
(More...)
‘Wake-up call to humanity’: research shows the Great Barrier Reef is the hottest it’s been in 400 years
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 19:15:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/wake-up-call-to-humanity-research-shows-the-great-barrier-reef-is-the-hottest-its-been-in-400-years-235876>
"The Great Barrier Reef is vast and spectacular. But repeated mass coral
bleachings, driven by high ocean temperatures, are threatening the survival of
coral colonies which are the backbone of the reef.
(More...)
Smart charging with rooftop solar: It is possible with a laptop and the right software
Sat, 31 Aug 2024 19:17:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2024/08/07/smart-charging-with-rooftop-solar-it-is-possible-with-a-laptop-and-the-right-software/>
"The recent cut in rooftop solar feed-in tariffs and the looming possibility of
a solar tax are sparking concern among solar power users.
(More...)
Australia mid-range in the list of winners and losers from global emissions targets
Sun, 1 Sep 2024 04:19:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australia-mid-range-in-the-list-of-winners-and-losers-from-global-emissions-targets-226905>
"Most of the world has signed up to commitments to reduce emissions under the
Paris Agreement. It aims to hold the increase in the global average temperature
to “well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels” and to pursue efforts to limit
(More...)
How Four Cities Are Cooling Down Creatively
Sun, 1 Sep 2024 04:20:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/cities-cool-down-creatively/
"In the middle of a summer of record-breaking heat, just stepping outside is
enough to remind us that the world is experiencing rising temperatures due to
climate change. Experts project that heat waves like the ones that so many of
(More...)
Repeating aids believing: climate misinformation feels more true through repetition - even if you back climate science
Sun, 1 Sep 2024 04:21:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Fighting Global Warming, One Abandoned Oil Well at a Time
Sun, 1 Sep 2024 04:22:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/well-done-plugging-oil-wells/
"Curtis Shuck was inspecting wheat crops with farmers in rural Northern Montana
in 2019 when he followed a rotten-egg stench and spotted corroded metal
surrounding a borehole. The discovery he stumbled upon would change his life,
(More...)
Elon Musk shares fake news about England rioters being sent to Falklands
Sun, 1 Sep 2024 04:23:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/article/2024/aug/08/elon-musk-shares-faked-telegraph-story-rioters-falklands-camps>
"Elon Musk shared a fake
Telegraph article claiming Keir Starmer was
considering sending far-right rioters to “emergency detainment camps” in the
Falklands.
(More...)
Archaeologists conduct first ‘space excavation’ on International Space Station – and discover surprising quirks of zero-gravity life
Sun, 1 Sep 2024 04:24:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/archaeologists-conduct-first-space-excavation-on-international-space-station-and-discover-surprising-quirks-of-zero-gravity-life-236125>
"New results from the first archaeological fieldwork conducted in space show
the International Space Station is a rich cultural landscape where crew create
their own “gravity” to replace Earth’s, and adapt module spaces to suit their
(More...)
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