Glass Wings Blog: February 2026
We know how to cool our cities and towns. So why aren’t we doing it?
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 12:36:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-know-how-to-cool-our-cities-and-towns-so-why-arent-we-doing-it-273341>
"This week, Victoria recorded its hottest day in nearly six years. On Tuesday,
the northwest towns of Walpeup and Hopetoun reached 48.9°C, and the temperature
in parts of Melbourne soared over 45°C. Towns in South Australia also broke
(More...)
EV total cost of ownership in Australia: The economics have turned
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 12:38:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/01/29/ev-total-cost-of-ownership-in-australia-the-economics-have-turned/>
"For much of the past decade, electric vehicles in Australia have been viewed
as a strategic or environmental investment rather than a financial one.
(More...)
The job losses are real — but the AI excuse is fake
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 12:39:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pivot-to-ai.com/2026/01/29/the-job-losses-are-real-but-the-ai-excuse-is-fake/>
"Both of these statements are true:
1. Across the whole US economy, there’s not really a visible effect of AI on
(More...)
EV Battery Recycling Could Be The End Of Mining!
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 12:41:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zY8aRCQ0CgY
"In this episode, Imogen visits Altilium in Plymouth to see how old electric
vehicle batteries are being transformed into brand-new battery materials, using
a process that can recover over 95% of critical minerals including lithium,
(More...)
Australia’s high speed rail ambitions could be funded through an aviation fuel excise
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 12:42:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/australias-high-speed-rail-ambitions-could-be-funded-through-an-aviation-fuel-excise/>
"Australia has contemplated high speed rail (HSR) for over 40 years. CSIRO
produced a high level proposal in 1984 titled “A Fast railway between Sydney,
Canberra and Melbourne”. Since then, feasibility studies for an east coast HSR
(More...)
Solarpunk at the BSFA Awards
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 12:44:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://brightgreenfutures.substack.com/p/solarpunk-at-the-bsfa-awards
"While the podcast is a fantastic medium for discussions with authors and for
making my long-form essays accessible to those who only do audio (not reading
the newsletter), podcasts take a lot of time to create… which ironically leaves
(More...)
The cold war maps that can help us rethink today’s Arctic conflict
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 19:07:57 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-cold-war-maps-that-can-help-us-rethink-todays-arctic-conflict-274058>
"The late 1940s and early 1950s were a golden age for polar mapmaking in the
US. Major magazines such as
Time,
Life and
Fortune commissioned a
generation of famous cartographers – who had come of age in the second world
(More...)
Four positive tipping points that could trigger unstoppable change
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 19:09:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/four-positive-tipping-points-that-could-trigger-unstoppable-change/>
"Imagine sitting on an ordinary chair. Now, lean back gently. Depending on
where exactly you are balanced, you could tilt forward to safety, or go
crashing backwards. A fraction of a degree is enough to determine your fate.
(More...)
The ‘pleasant fiction’ of a rules-based order has been blown apart. It’s time for Australia to codify a bill of rights
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 19:12:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/31/australia-charter-bill-of-rights>
"For decades, Labor governments have been waiting for a “catalysing political
trigger” to convince the opposition that there was a real and urgent need for a
comprehensive, codified Australian charter of rights as exists in all other
(More...)
Geopolitics will cast a long shadow over the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympic Games
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 19:13:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/geopolitics-will-cast-a-long-shadow-over-the-2026-milan-cortina-winter-olympic-games-273764>
"This winter’s Olympic games will not be a normal international sporting event.
A cloud of geopolitical tension looms over the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics,
as well as the upcoming FIFA Men’s World Cup.
(More...)
‘I’ve found my community’: the woman bringing AI and climate science together
Sun, 1 Feb 2026 19:13:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/ive-found-my-community-the-woman-bringing-ai-and-climate-science-together/>
"What links artificial intelligence and the climate crisis? On the one hand,
they’re both driven by fossil fuels. The link between dirty energy and an
ever-heating climate is well-established. As for AI’s connection, energy hungry
(More...)
ICE not only looks and acts like a paramilitary force – it is one, and that makes it harder to curb
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 06:32:25 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ice-not-only-looks-and-acts-like-a-paramilitary-force-it-is-one-and-that-makes-it-harder-to-curb-274580>
"As the operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement have intensified over
the past year, politicians and journalists alike have begun referring to ICE as
a “paramilitary force.”
(More...)
‘It’s a virtuous spiral, and it’s just beginning’: electric vehicles as mini power plants
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 06:34:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/its-a-virtuous-spiral-and-its-just-beginning-electric-vehicles-as-mini-power-plants/>
"We’ve all heard it. That phrase trotted out with deadening familiarity by
green sceptics: “Solar and wind are all very well, but what happens when the
breeze doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine? Have you thought of that, eh?”
(More...)
Russia’s drone pipeline: How Iran helps Moscow produce an ever-evolving unmanned fleet
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 06:35:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/russias-drone-pipeline-how-iran-helps-moscow-produce-an-ever-evolving-unmanned-fleet-272016>
"With Russian ground troops bogged down in a grinding war of attrition, Moscow
is striving to press home its advantage in the skies – through an ever-evolving
army of drones, courtesy of Iran.
(More...)
It’s easy making green: Muppets continue to make a profit 50 years into their run
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 06:38:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/its-easy-making-green-muppets-continue-to-make-a-profit-50-years-into-their-run-272855>
"A variety show that’s still revered for its absurdist, slapstick humor debuted
50 years ago. It starred an irreverent band of characters made of foam and
fleece.
(More...)
Lab-cultured fish: the newest alt-protein making a splash
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 06:40:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/lab-cultured-fish-the-newest-alt-protein-making-a-splash/>
"The sight of lab-coated technicians operating shiny steel vats takes some
getting used to. It’s a far cry from industrial chicken barns and abattoirs.
This is cellular agriculture; farming on a microscopic scale, cultivating cells
(More...)
Letters from an American: January 31, 2026
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 12:13:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/january-31-2026
"White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller posted on social media this
morning:
(More...)
The motley (star-studded) crew that paved the way for Norway’s EV revolution
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 12:15:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/the-crew-that-paved-the-way-for-norway-ev-revolution/>
"The halcyon days of the mid-80s – ripped jeans, hair mousse, and that tune:
A-ha’s
Take on Me, blasting from radios, lighting up
MTV.
(More...)
US formally withdraws from World Health Organization, leaving debt
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 12:16:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/public-health/us-formally-withdraws-world-health-organization-leaving-debt>
"Today the United States officially withdrew from the World Health Organization
(WHO), one year after the Trump administration shared its intention to leave
the global agency.
(More...)
The City Where Traffic Fatalities Vanished
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 12:17:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/the-city-where-traffic-fatalities-vanished/>
"A U.S. city of 60,000 people would typically see around six to eight traffic
fatalities every year. But Hoboken, New Jersey? They haven’t had a single fatal
crash for nine years — since January 17, 2017, to be exact.
(More...)
Researchers: Not testing for Covid-19 is creating problems
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 12:19:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencenorway.no/covid19-long-covid-mental-health/researchers-not-testing-for-covid-19-is-creating-problems/2606109>
"Several Nordic studies point in the same direction: People are visiting
doctors more often, and more are absent from work than before the pandemic. Is
this due to after-effects of Covid-19, or something entirely different?
(More...)
Inside the Teen-Run Hotline Meeting America’s Mental Health Crisis
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 12:20:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/teen-mental-health-peer-support-hotline-california/>
"On weekday evenings between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. PST, the small, softly lit Teen
Line office in Century City, CA, begins to buzz. A handful of high schoolers —
many still in their school sweatshirts — settle into cubicles, put on headsets
(More...)
The Whimsical Floating Schools of Kashmir
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 19:29:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/floating-schools-of-kashmir-dal-lake/
"Each weekday morning, as mist lifts off Dal Lake, a quiet movement begins.
Wooden boats set out from houseboats and island homes carrying children dressed
in school uniforms, their backpacks tucked between oars and lunch pails. Some
(More...)
What Could Go Right? A Bovine Backscratcher
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 19:34:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://theprogressnetwork.substack.com/p/a-bovine-backscratcher
"Here at
The Progress Network, we have an explicit editorial mandate not to
tip over into the type of good news that feels warm and fuzzy but has little
serious impact. With the national mood so grim last week, however, I had to
(More...)
A chatbot entirely powered by humans, not artificial intelligence? This Chilean community shows why
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 19:35:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/ai-human-chatbot-chile-quiliai-data-centers-water-a798d7d1ae3b2fd7646ec5dbfc8a18dd>
"About 50 residents of a community outside Chile’s capital spent Saturday
trying their best to power an entirely human-operated chatbot that could answer
questions and make silly pictures on command, in a message to highlight the
(More...)
Ethnic Cleansing in Ohio?
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 19:37:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://snyder.substack.com/p/ethnic-cleansing-in-ohio
"In the schools and churches of Springfield, Ohio, people are making hasty
preparations for a “large deportation” promised by the president. To all
appearances, and according to local sources, the city is two or three days away
(More...)
Kentucky’s Rural and Urban Communities Unite over Climate Change
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 19:38:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/kentucky-communities-unite-over-climate-change/>
"Two myths tend to shape how people talk about Kentucky and climate change. One
is that the state is a “climate haven,” insulated from the worst effects of
global warming. The other is that Kentuckians are hostile to climate action.
(More...)
AI is failing ‘Humanity’s Last Exam’. So what does that mean for machine intelligence?
Mon, 2 Feb 2026 19:41:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ai-is-failing-humanitys-last-exam-so-what-does-that-mean-for-machine-intelligence-274620>
"How do you translate ancient Palmyrene script from a Roman tombstone? How many
paired tendons are supported by a specific sesamoid bone in a hummingbird? Can
you identify closed syllables in Biblical Hebrew based on the latest
(More...)
Calls grow in Iran for independent inquiry into protest death toll
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 04:35:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/01/calls-grow-in-iran-for-independent-inquiry-into-protest-death-toll>
"Calls are growing inside Iran for an independent inquiry into the number of
people killed during recent protests after the government said it would oversee
the publication of the names of the deceased.
(More...)
Australia needs to get real about Trump’s changing America
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 04:36:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australia-needs-to-get-real-about-trumps-changing-america-274424>
"Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Davos speech should unsettle Australian
strategic thinkers, who have been raised in the belief the US alliance is the
unshakeable foundation of Australia’s regional security.
(More...)
From cute dogs to Turning Point: the journey of an influencer aiming to breathe rightwing Christian values into Australian politics
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 04:37:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/02/turning-point-australia-rightwing-christian-politics>
"When George Mamalis started an Instagram account a decade ago, it was filled
with beaches, sunsets, cute dogs and aesthetically pleasing food shots.
(More...)
Funny, tender, goofy – Catherine O'Hara lit up the screen every time she showed up
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 04:38:25 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/funny-tender-goofy-catherine-ohara-lit-up-the-screen-every-time-she-showed-up-274816>
"Catherine O’Hara, the beloved actor and comedian who has died aged 71,
occupied that rare position in contemporary screen culture: a comic actor, a
cult figure and a mainstream star.
(More...)
Russian drone attack on bus carrying mine workers in Ukraine kills at least 12
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 04:39:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/01/russian-drone-attack-on-bus-carrying-mine-workers-ukraine-kills>
"A Russian drone attack on a bus carrying mine workers in Ukraine’s
central-eastern Dnipropetrovsk region has killed at least 12 people, officials
said.
(More...)
The only remaining US-Russia nuclear treaty expires this week. Could a new arms race soon accelerate?
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 04:43:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Battery prices plunge 60 pct in two years, changing face of grid and the nature of contracts
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 12:20:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/battery-prices-plunge-60-pct-in-two-years-changing-face-of-grid-and-the-nature-of-contracts/>
"The new owner of one of the most successful battery storage and renewable
energy developers in Australia and the world, says battery storage costs have
fallen 60 per cent and changed the face of the grid as well as the nature of
(More...)
Why the Voice referendum failed – and what the government hasn’t learned from it
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 12:21:11 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-the-voice-referendum-failed-and-what-the-government-hasnt-learned-from-it-255969>
"More than two years on, you’d be forgiven for thinking the story of the
failure of the referendum on an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice has
been neatly folded away and filed as a story of inevitable loss. Bipartisanship
(More...)
The Final Coding Bootcamp: A Eulogy for Lighthouse Labs
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 12:22:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://brennan.day/the-final-coding-bootcamp-a-eulogy-for-lighthouse-labs/>
"On a damp October evening in 2013, a handful of developers in Vancouver's
Gastown gathered around folding tables. It was a wonderful, ideal concept they
discussed as their MacBook screens glowed.
What if you didn't need four years
(More...)
Household rat poisons found to be ‘unacceptable risk’ to native animals. So why aren’t they banned?
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 12:34:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/household-rat-poisons-found-to-be-unacceptable-risk-to-native-animals-so-why-arent-they-banned-272346>
"The Australian authority that regulates pesticides has finally released its
long-delayed review of the rodenticide poisons used by millions of Australians
to combat rat and mice infestations.
(More...)
The ‘Social Media Addiction’ Narrative May Be More Harmful Than Social Media Itself
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 12:36:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2026/01/29/the-social-media-addiction-narrative-may-be-more-harmful-than-social-media-itself/>
"This week, a major trial kicked off in Los Angeles in which hundreds of
families sued Meta, TikTok, Snap, and YouTube, accusing the companies of
intentionally designing their products to be addictive (though Snap and TikTok
(More...)
US Warns Canada "Buy the F-35, or Else"
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 12:37:27 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium-mirror.cfd/https://wesodonnell.medium.com/us-warns-canada-buy-the-f-35-or-else-e1e22a85ce0a>
"Canada didn't ask for a fighter jet referendum wrapped in a sovereignty
crisis, but that's more or less what it's been handed.
(More...)
Fortescue’s low temperature green iron process ready for real world testing
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 19:39:45 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/fortescues-low-temperature-green-iron-process-ready-for-real-world-testing/>
"A project to turn Australia’s low grade iron ore into high grade magnetite at
very low temperatures is out of the lab and ready for real world testing, with
a government-funded trial proving the concept works.
(More...)
Speak Its Name: Yes, This Is Naziism
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 19:41:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.techdirt.com/2026/01/29/speak-its-name-yes-this-is-naziism/
"History never repeats exactly the same, which is how it can be hard to
recognize when it is indeed repeating—too many little things may be different
the second time around for subsequent events to be a perfect twin of the
(More...)
Many Western Christians Are Going the Way of the Reich Church
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 19:43:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium-mirror.cfd/https://medium.com/the-panopticon-publication/many-western-christians-are-going-the-way-of-the-reich-church-c2430d5c803c>
"There's an internet adage known as Godwin's Law that states the longer an
internet argument progresses, the probability that someone will invoke Hitler
or the Nazis into the discussion will inevitably happen.
(More...)
New data show where the parties got their money from in the lead-up to the 2025 election
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 19:45:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/new-data-show-where-the-parties-got-their-money-from-in-the-lead-up-to-the-2025-election-274739>
"Australia’s political parties set new records in funds raised and spent in the
lead-up to the 2025 federal election. Now, nine months later, Australians
finally get a look at who funded the parties’ election campaigns.
(More...)
Some companies claim they can ‘resurrect’ species. Does that make people more comfortable with extinction?
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 19:45:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/some-companies-claim-they-can-resurrect-species-does-that-make-people-more-comfortable-with-extinction-273583>
"Less than a year ago, United States company Colossal Biosciences announced it
had “resurrected” the dire wolf, a megafauna-hunting wolf species that had been
extinct for 10,000 years.
(More...)
Genetically modified purple tomatoes get green light to be sold in Australia
Tue, 3 Feb 2026 19:47:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/03/genetically-modified-purple-tomatoes-australia>
"Caprese salads could take on a new hue after genetically modified purple
tomatoes cleared regulatory hurdles, raising expectations they would become the
first GM fresh food available in Australian green grocers.
(More...)
Australia’s Pacific worker scheme is far from perfect – but we can make it better
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 03:54:22 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australias-pacific-worker-scheme-is-far-from-perfect-but-we-can-make-it-better-274618>
"The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme (PALM) is a crucial source of
workers across regional Australia. About 32,000 people from nine Pacific
nations and Timor-Leste work in Australia under PALM.
(More...)
China Has Scaled Floating Solar PV — Will the World Follow?
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 03:55:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium-mirror.cfd/https://medium.com/the-new-climate/china-has-scaled-floating-solar-pv-will-the-world-follow-ec8277b877ee>
“Have you heard the one about the reservoir in LA that was covered in 96
million black plastic balls? True story. Each ball cost 36 cents, costing the
city $300 million. A delighted Mayor Eric Garcetti — who released them at a
(More...)
Tiny radio transmitters reveal a hidden survival tactic in birds
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 03:58:07 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/tiny-radio-transmitters-reveal-a-hidden-survival-tactic-in-birds-274517>
"In Sturt National Park, near Tibooburra in central Australia where
temperatures can range from freezing to nearly 50°C, there lives a small bird
with a white back, forked tail and – as we’ve just discovered – a very clever
(More...)
In Bangladesh, Thousands of Volunteers Are Battling Climate-Fuelled Disease at its Source
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 03:59:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.asiandispatch.net/volunteers-are-battling-climate-fuelled-disease-at-its-source-bangladesh>
"It is a cloudy, humid September morning near the end of monsoon season in
Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh and one of the world's most densely populated
cities. Streets normally bustling are quiet as residents of the Uttara
(More...)
Here's how Epstein broke the internet
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 04:01:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.garbageday.email/p/here-s-how-epstein-broke-the-internet
"I spent most of my 20s covering what we now call the global populism wave. I
got my start in newsrooms writing 4chan explainers and trawling through school
shooter manifestos and eventually that work took me around the world.
(More...)
The Iberian Lynx’s Remarkable Recovery Story | WILD HOPE
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 04:02:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6p6bCyoDYI
"Once on the brink of extinction, the Iberian lynx has been given a chance to
thrive again — thanks, in part, to the unyielding dedication of biologist
Rodrigo Serra.
(More...)
She Listened to Women’s Pain. Then She Transformed How It Was Treated.
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 11:55:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/PD3Kk
"As a veteran doctor treating pregnant women in the suburbs of Paris, Ghada
Hatem-Gantzer realized that most of her patients needed more than she could
offer them.
(More...)
US exit from the World Health Organization marks a new era in global health policy – here’s what the US, and world, will lose
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 11:56:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/us-exit-from-the-world-health-organization-marks-a-new-era-in-global-health-policy-heres-what-the-us-and-world-will-lose-274277>
"The U.S. departure from the World Health Organization became official in late
January 2026, according to the Trump administration – a year after President
Donald Trump signed an executive order on inauguration day of his second term
(More...)
How to fireproof a city
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 11:57:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theverge.com/features/861950/fire-resilient-home-neighborhood>
"Down the street from the Los Angeles Angels’ stadium in Anaheim, a crowd
gathers to watch two homes burn.
(More...)
Ten of the Most Exciting Ways to Commemorate America’s 250th This Year
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 12:00:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/ten-of-the-most-exciting-ways-to-commemorate-americas-250th-this-year-180988106/>
"America is celebrating 250 years of independence in 2026 with a bevy of
activities, events, exhibitions, concerts, performances and festivities from
coast-to-coast. As one would expect, the Smithsonian Institution is joining in
(More...)
Boy swims four hours in rough seas to save mother and siblings off Western Australia
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 12:26:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/03/boy-swims-four-hours-rescue-family-western-australia>
"A teenager has saved his mother and two younger siblings by making a four-hour
swim to raise the alarm despite fading light and rough conditions after the
family was swept out to sea in Western Australia.
(More...)
Africa fights rising hunger by looking to foods of the past
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 12:29:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.technologyreview.com/2024/10/14/1105070/africa-crops-maize-kenya-climate-change-agriculture/>
"The first time the rains failed, the farmers of Kanaani were prepared for it.
It was April of 2021, and as climate change had made the weather increasingly
erratic, families in the eastern Kenyan village had grown used to saving food
(More...)
Australian state opens its first overhead gantry-charged bus depot
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:10:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/02/02/australian-state-opens-its-first-overhead-gantry-charged-bus-depot/>
"The first over-head gantry-charged electric bus depot in the state of Victoria
has been opened, marking a significant milestone in the transition to
zero-emission public transport in its capital city.
(More...)
Time to do more nothing: the art of deep hanging out
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:11:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/lifestyle/wander-notice-be-where-you-are-the-creative-power-of-deep-hanging-out/>
"Modern life can feel relentless, but for many leaders, making space for
uncertainty fuels creativity and resilience. Writer and broadcaster Margaret
Heffernan, a professor at the University of Bath whose Ted Talks have been
(More...)
In Putin’s Orbit: The Crypto Politics of Jeffrey Epstein and Peter Thiel
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:12:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://bylinetimes.com/2026/02/03/in-putins-orbit-the-crypto-politics-of-jeffrey-epstein-and-peter-thiel/>
"When Sputnik was launched by the USSR as the first satellite in space in 1957,
the West was caught flat‑footed by a moment of technical and cultural
revolution which had gone largely undetected over the preceding decade.
(More...)
This tech could keep EVs from stressing the grid — and save everyone money
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:13:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://grist.org/transportation/this-tech-could-keep-evs-from-stressing-the-grid-and-save-everyone-money/>
"If you’re a typical American, you get home from work and start flipping
switches and turning knobs — doing laundry, cooking dinner, watching TV. With
so many other folks doing the same, the strain on the electrical grid in
(More...)
Accessibility for Everyone
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:14:56 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://accessibilityforeveryone.site/
"We first published
Accessibility For Everyone with A Book Apart back in
2017. This means the book is now 9 years old. Accessibility best practices
haven’t really changed, and you should still find this book valuable. However,
(More...)
How to know if that job will crush your soul
Wed, 4 Feb 2026 19:16:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.anildash.com/2026/01/12/will-that-job-crush-your-soul/
"Last week, we talked about one huge question, “How the hell are you supposed
to have a career in tech in 2026?” That’s pretty specific to this current
moment, but there are some timeless, more perennial questions I've been sharing
(More...)
Free V2X chargers will let Massachusetts EVs power the grid
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 04:29:22 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://electrek.co/2026/02/03/free-v2x-chargers-will-let-massachusetts-evs-power-the-grid/>
"Massachusetts is turning EVs into grid assets, starting with free,
bi-directional (V2X) chargers for schools, towns, and residents.
(More...)
Judge rules Department of Energy’s climate working group was illegal
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 04:30:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/02/us-forced-to-disclose-its-climate-working-groups-communications/>
"On Friday, a judge ruled that the Trump administration violated the law in
forming its Climate Working Group, which released a report that was intended to
undercut the rationale behind greenhouse gas regulations. The judge overseeing
(More...)
Welcome to the ‘Homogenocene’: how humans are making the world’s wildlife dangerously samey
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 04:31:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/welcome-to-the-homogenocene-how-humans-are-making-the-worlds-wildlife-dangerously-samey-274092>
"The age of humans is increasingly an age of sameness. Across the planet,
distinctive plants and animals are disappearing, replaced by species that are
lucky enough to thrive alongside humans and travel with us easily. Some
(More...)
With just weeks left on her Australian student visa, one Iranian woman fears she will be executed if she has to return
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 04:33:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/04/iranian-woman-australian-student-visa-expiring-fears-execution>
"When bullets fired by Iran’s paramilitary force were sprayed at her home
during a 2022 protest, Atefeh* realised her country was in a “hostage
situation”.
(More...)
We ate space mushrooms and survived to tell the tale
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 04:34:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-ate-space-mushrooms-and-survived-to-tell-the-tale-274112>
"The mushrooms spread out on the chopping board seemed normal enough. They were
rich and dense, and had a strong earthy aroma. In the saucepan, they melted –
along with the cheese – to form a creamy pasta sauce.
(More...)
Campaign group behind attack ads on Labor, Greens and teal candidates was funded by coal industry lobby
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 04:35:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/04/coal-australia-industry-lobby-attack-ads-labor-green-teal>
"A campaign group that attacked Labor, the Greens and teal independent
candidates at the last federal election was almost entirely funded by a coal
industry lobby group, analysis of political disclosures reveals.
(More...)
The Voice would have renewed Australian democracy. Its failure leaves us all worse off
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 12:23:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-voice-would-have-renewed-australian-democracy-its-failure-leaves-us-all-worse-off-271836>
"There’s long been a fundamental issue underpinning Australia’s approach to
Indigenous affairs. The state makes laws specifically about Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples without any protected mechanism giving them a
(More...)
Zelenskyy accuses Russia of violating Trump-brokered truce amid cold snap
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 12:24:57 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/03/thousands-without-heating-ukraine-russia-winter-attacks-before-talks>
"Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia on Tuesday of violating an agreement with
Donald Trump to hold off from attacking Ukraine’s energy systems in the depths
of a freezing winter, as its forces carried out large-scale airstrikes on Kyiv
(More...)
These voices are the loudest in Australia’s ‘climate wars’
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 12:28:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/these-voices-are-the-loudest-in-australias-climate-wars-272347>
"There’s a reason political commentators refer to Australia’s “climate wars”.
Every time a climate policy is put on the table, supporters and opponents come
out in force and duke it out.
(More...)
New research shows Australians support buying local for different reasons – and not all will pay more
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 12:29:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/new-research-shows-australians-support-buying-local-for-different-reasons-and-not-all-will-pay-more-274731>
"We have now passed the annual Australia Day peak of calls urging us to “buy
Australian” – especially lamb. The iconic green-and-gold “Australian Made,
Australian Grown” logo, launched by then-Prime Minister Bob Hawke in 1986,
(More...)
Potoroos digging for ‘truffles’ keep their forests healthy – but for how long?
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 12:30:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/potoroos-digging-for-truffles-keep-their-forests-healthy-but-for-how-long-271844>
"Think truffles and you’ll probably think of France. But Australia is actually
a global hotspot for truffle-like fungi, boasting hundreds of different
species. Like culinary truffles, these truffle-like fungi produce underground
(More...)
China’s new literary star had 19 jobs before ‘writer’ – including bike courier and bakery apprentice
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 12:31:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/chinas-new-literary-star-had-19-jobs-before-writer-including-bike-courier-and-bakery-apprentice-272447>
"
Review: I Deliver Parcels in Beijing – Hu Anyan (Allen Lane)
Delivering parcels is just one of the 19 different jobs Hu Anyan cycles through
(More...)
A moment that changed me: I shaved off my hair – and immediately became an invisible woman
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 19:25:22 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/feb/04/a-moment-that-changed-me-shaved-hair-became-invisible-woman>
"In November 2000, two weeks after giving birth to my first and only child, I
found myself collapsed in bed, breastfeeding in front of
Top of the Pops,
hair matted, sheets dirty, surrounded by sick-soaked muslin rags. I liked it.
(More...)
How a Black fossil digger became a superstar in the very white world of paleontology
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 19:26:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.kpbs.org/news/health/2026/02/04/how-a-black-fossil-digger-became-a-superstar-in-the-very-white-world-of-paleontology>
“Lazarus Kgasi walks with ease across a gently rolling landscape about an
hour's drive outside of Pretoria, South Africa. A few trees are sprinkled here
and there but it's mostly grass. Kgasi, a tall man with a big smile, knows the
(More...)
Climate ‘fingerprints’ mark human activity from the top of the atmosphere to the bottom of the ocean
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 19:29:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/climate-fingerprints-mark-human-activity-from-the-top-of-the-atmosphere-to-the-bottom-of-the-ocean-274659>
"The world is warming. This fact is most often discussed for the Earth’s
surface, where we live. But the climate is also changing from the top of the
atmosphere to the bottom of the ocean. And there is a clear fingerprint of
(More...)
Trump wants Ukraine to give up the Donbas in return for security guarantees. It could be fatal for Kyiv
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 19:30:25 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/trump-wants-ukraine-to-give-up-the-donbas-in-return-for-security-guarantees-it-could-be-fatal-for-kyiv-274779>
"There is a major sticking point often overlooked in the ceasefire negotiations
between Ukraine and Russia currently being held in Abu Dhabi. This relates to
the fact that, as part of any agreement, Kyiv is being asked to give up the
(More...)
Victoria’s mountain ash forests naturally thin their trees. So why do it with machines?
Thu, 5 Feb 2026 19:31:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/victorias-mountain-ash-forests-naturally-thin-their-trees-so-why-do-it-with-machines-268201>
"There has been much global discussion about the best ways to manage Earth’s
forests in an era of climate change and more frequent bushfires.
(More...)
More than 80% of flying fox colony wiped out as January heatwaves kill thousands of bats
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 03:13:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/05/flying-foxes-january-heatwaves-kill-thousands>
"A colony of about 1,000 flying foxes in a South Australian town has been
shattered by the intense heat that gripped south-eastern Australia last week,
with more than 80% of the camp at Naracoorte wiped out.
(More...)
Why cheaper power alone isn’t enough to end energy poverty in summer
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 03:17:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-cheaper-power-alone-isnt-enough-to-end-energy-poverty-in-summer-274963>
"Australia is an energy superpower. We have abundant natural resources, high
average incomes and one of the highest per-capita rates of rooftop solar uptake
in the world.
(More...)
Food delivery riders brave ‘brutal’ 40C heat so we don’t have to – but who’s protecting them?
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 03:18:25 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jan/31/food-delivery-riders-australia-heatwave-hot-weather-protection>
"As the mercury went into the mid-40s across swathes of Australia this week,
many people sheltered indoors, with the air con blasting.
(More...)
In the Australian outback, we’re listening for nuclear tests – and what we hear matters more than ever
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 03:21:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/in-the-australian-outback-were-listening-for-nuclear-tests-and-what-we-hear-matters-more-than-ever-272892>
"Tyres stick to hot asphalt as I drive the Stuart Highway from Alice Springs
northward, leaving the MacDonnell Ranges behind. My destination is the
Warramunga facility, about 500 kilometres north – a remote monitoring station
(More...)
Revealed: Israel bulldozed part of Gaza war cemetery containing allied graves
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 03:22:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/04/idf-bulldoze-gaza-war-cemetery-allied-graves-satellite-images>
"Israeli forces have bulldozed part of a Gaza cemetery containing the war
graves of dozens of British, Australian and other allied soldiers killed in the
first and second world wars, satellite imagery and witness testimony reveal.
(More...)
Flawed economic models mean climate crisis could crash global economy, experts warn
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 03:24:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
China bankrolling Putin’s war to gain advantage over West, MPs told
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 11:38:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/china-bankrolling-putin-war-gain-174623903.html>
"China has become the main financial backer for Russia’s war against Ukraine,
MPs have been told.
(More...)
Trumpland Ramps Up Attacks On Netflix Warner Brothers Merger To Help Larry Ellison
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 11:40:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2026/02/04/trumpland-ramps-up-attacks-on-netflix-warner-brothers-merger-to-help-larry-ellison/>
"So we’ve been noting how the Trump administration has been helping Larry
Ellison wage war on Netflix’s proposed merger with Warner Brothers. Not because
they care about antitrust (that’s always been a lie), but because they want
(More...)
In America, the social fabric is starting to collapse. Australia must also learn that words shape our world
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 11:41:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/feb/05/in-america-the-social-fabric-is-starting-to-collapse-australia-must-also-learn-that-words-shape-our-world>
"As I travel the world, I am reminded again and again that the health of a
society is revealed not only in its laws or its institutions but in the way its
people speak to, and about, one another. My father taught that nonviolence
(More...)
A grid with no smokestacks: Octopus snaps up biggest battery project and solar hybrid in push to replace coal
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 11:42:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/a-grid-with-no-smokestacks-octopus-snaps-up-biggest-battery-project-and-solar-hybrid-in-push-to-replace-coal/>
"Octopus Australia, an offshoot of British clean energy investment giant
Octopus Group, has struck deals for the purchase of two major battery projects,
one a massive facility of up to 4.8 gigawatt-hours in NSW, and the other a
(More...)
OpenAI’s New Scientific Writing And Collaboration Workspace ‘Prism’ Raises Fears Of Vibe-Coded Academic AI Slop
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 11:43:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2026/02/04/openais-new-scientific-writing-and-collaboration-workspace-prism-raises-fears-of-vibe-coded-academic-ai-slop/>
"It is no secret that large language models (LLMs) are being used routinely to
modify and even write scientific papers. That’s not necessarily a bad thing:
LLMs can help produce clearer texts with stronger logic, not least when
(More...)
Farmers get climate savvy through government-backed carbon advice project
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 11:44:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/farmers-get-climate-savvy-through-government-backed-carbon-advice-project/>
"More than 120 farmers across New South Wales are working with experts to
develop plans designed to understand, manage, and reduce greenhouse gas
emissions on their property, as part of a joint state and federal government
(More...)
Indonesia’s leader is going after critics with a vengeance. This could complicate relations with Australia
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 19:03:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/indonesias-leader-is-going-after-critics-with-a-vengeance-this-could-complicate-relations-with-australia-274947>
"Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto waited decades for his chance to lead
the country. The controversial former general finally won the office on his
third attempt in a 2024 landslide election.
(More...)
Coal’s hidden campaign: The shocking spend on astroturfing in the 2025 Australian election
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 19:04:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/coals-hidden-campaign-the-shocking-spend-on-astroturfing-in-the-2025-australian-election/>
"Evidence of a new threat to climate information integrity has emerged in the
latest batch of federal political donation disclosures. Fossil fuel interests
spent more than $7 million to back groups that spread misinformation and
(More...)
All laws are local
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 19:07:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://pluralistic.net/2026/02/05/contingency/#this-too-shall-pass
“About halfway through Thomas Piketty's 2013 barnstorming
Capital in the 21st
Century, Piketty tosses off a little insight that skewered me on the spot and
never let me go: the notion that any societal condition that endures beyond a
(More...)
Meet the women protecting India's snow leopards
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 19:09:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g05xg1qzeo
“In one of India's coldest and most remote regions, a group of women have taken
on an unlikely role: protecting one of Asia's most elusive predators, the snow
leopard.
(More...)
News sites are locking out the Internet Archive to stop AI crawling. Is the ‘open web’ closing?
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 19:10:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/news-sites-are-locking-out-the-internet-archive-to-stop-ai-crawling-is-the-open-web-closing-274968>
"When the World Wide Web went live in the early 1990s, its founders hoped it
would be a space for anyone to share information and collaborate. But today,
the free and open web is shrinking.
(More...)
Japan’s record-breaking snowfalls – in pictures
Fri, 6 Feb 2026 19:12:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2026/feb/05/record-breaking-snowfalls-in-japan-in-pictures>
"Snowbanks reach shoulder height and tourists visit giant icy sculptures of
baseball players as northern half of country is blanketed in white"
(More...)
Can a bird be an illegal immigrant? How the White Australia era influenced attitudes to the bulbul
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 03:44:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/can-a-bird-be-an-illegal-immigrant-how-the-white-australia-era-influenced-attitudes-to-the-bulbul-273347>
"In early January, authorities from South Australia’s Department of Primary
Industries took to the streets of Adelaide on the hunt for a suspicious
individual.
(More...)
The Affordable Daycare That Keeps Parents Close
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 03:45:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/little-break-coworking-space-on-site-child-care-michigan/>
"Saja Khuder was set to return to her job with a pharmaceutical firm after
maternity leave. At the last minute, her child care plans fell through.
(More...)
WHO membership doesn’t threaten NZ’s sovereignty – walking away from it would
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 03:46:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/who-membership-doesnt-threaten-nzs-sovereignty-walking-away-from-it-would-274844>
"When NZ First leader Winston Peters responded to the recent US withdrawal from
the World Health Organization (WHO) by questioning whether New Zealand should
continue funding it, he employed a familiar narrative.
(More...)
The Most Chess-Obsessed Country in the World
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 03:47:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/india-most-chess-obsessed-country-in-the-world/>
"It’s 9 o’clock on a Sunday morning and the temperature is soaring toward the
90s as hundreds of children make their way toward the iconic Marina Beach in
the southern Indian metropolis of Chennai. Yet there’s not a towel or sand pail
(More...)
Josh Hawley Trots Out Trans Panic Attacks On Netflix To Help Larry Ellison Buy CNN, HBO
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 03:49:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2026/02/05/josh-hawley-trots-out-trans-panic-attacks-on-netflix-to-help-larry-ellison-buy-cnn-hbo/>
"We’ve been talking about how the Trump GOP is launching an all out attack on
Netflix’s proposed merger with Warner Brothers. Not because they care about
antitrust or corporate power, but because they really want Trump-allied
(More...)
Would you pay 1% more for wildlife?
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 03:50:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.hcn.org/articles/would-you-pay-1-more-for-wildlife/
"When Oregon’s short legislative session convenes in early February,
conservation advocates will once again try to convince lawmakers to pass a
major funding bill that could provide nearly $30 million annually to protect
(More...)
What’s the point of a space station around the Moon?
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 12:02:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/whats-the-point-of-a-space-station-around-the-moon-274765>
"The Lunar Gateway is planned space station that will orbit the Moon. It is
part of the Nasa‑led Artemis programme. Artemis aims to return humans to the
Moon, establishing a sustainable presence there for scientific and commercial
(More...)
'Zombie' Remnants of COVID-19 Hunt In Packs And Kill Our Immune Cells
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 12:03:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/zombie-remnants-of-covid-19-hunt-in-packs-and-kill-our-immune-cells>
“'Zombie' coronavirus fragments not only help drive inflammation in long-COVID,
but also destroy our immune cells.
(More...)
Women have been mapping the world for centuries – and now they’re speaking up for the people left out of those maps
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 12:06:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
“Rewarding the laggards”: EU backflip on ICE phaseout puts EV transition at risk
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 12:07:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/02/06/rewarding-the-laggards-eu-backflip-on-ice-phaseout-puts-ev-transition-at-risk/>
"A new analysis of the European Union’s decision to weaken CO₂ emissions
standards for cars by replacing its original 2035 zero-emissions target with a
90 per cent reduction will introduce high levels of uncertainty that could see
(More...)
Australia urged to release “terrifying” climate security analysis after UK report flags ecosystem collapse by 2030
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 12:09:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/australia-urged-to-release-terrifying-climate-security-analysis-after-uk-report-flags-ecosystem-collapse-by-2030/>
"The Australian government has been urged to come clean on security threats
posed by climate change following the release of a troubling UK assessment.
(More...)
Fix The News 326: Dua Leaper. Lisima lya mwono. Tap water 🩵. Alcatraz Wolfzilla.
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 12:16:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://fixthenews.com/p/326-dua-leaper-lisima-lya-mwono-tap
"
This week’s top stories
* Youth-driven protests force Bulgaria’s unpopular government to resign.
(More...)
‘In the end, you feel blank’: India’s female workers watching hours of abusive content to train AI
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 19:10:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2026/feb/05/in-the-end-you-feel-blank-indias-female-workers-watching-hours-of-abusive-content-to-train-ai>
"On the veranda of her family’s home, with her laptop balanced on a mud slab
built into the wall, Monsumi Murmu works from one of the few places where the
mobile signal holds. The familiar sounds of domestic life come from inside the
(More...)
With $48M in philanthropic backing, a division of USAID relaunches as a nonprofit
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 19:18:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/div-fund-usaid-foreign-aid-3d4b69f8a1c53fae17a39fd9af1f4f00>
"WASHINGTON (
AP) — A division of the U.S. Agency for International
Development eliminated by Trump administration cuts last year was reborn
Thursday as an independent nonprofit, allowing its international work to
(More...)
Newly digitized papers shed light on WWII internment
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 19:19:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/02/kazuyuki-takahashi-papers-wwii-internment-records>
"The Kazuyuki Takahashi papers, comprising digital scans of correspondence,
photographs, and related materials created and collected by Stanford University
graduate Kazuyuki “Kaz” Takahashi and his wife, Soyo Takahashi, during their
(More...)
Fast jeden Tag ein Fall von Sabotage
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 19:22:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/lAajy
"Einbrüche, Diebstähle, Anschläge auf Bahn und Bundeswehr – mehr als 320
mutmaßliche Sabotagefälle hat das BKA 2025 gezählt. Das geht aus einer
vertraulichen Analyse hervor. Nun plant die Regierung neue Maßnahmen."
(More...)
How ‘Pink Slime’ Publishers Are Weaponizing FOIA
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 19:25:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.cjr.org/tow_center/pink-slime-networks-are-weaponizing-foia.php>
"Two days after the 2024 elections, Metric Media, the online publishing
company, started filing thousands of public records requests. Metric, which
operates a network of nearly twelve hundred news sites, sent letters to the
(More...)
City skylines need an upgrade in the face of climate stress
Sat, 7 Feb 2026 19:25:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/city-skylines-need-an-upgrade-in-the-face-of-climate-stress-267763>
"When structural engineers design a building, they aren’t just stacking floors;
they are calculating how to win a complex battle against nature. Every building
is built to withstand a specific “budget” of environmental stress – the weight
(More...)
Bright Green Futures: Wildcraft Drones and Stories of Defiance
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 04:13:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://brightgreenfutures.substack.com/p/wildcraft-drones-and-stories-of-defiance>
"Hello Friends!
I have some stories you’ll want to grab (or preorder) from previous guests on
(More...)
Deepfake fraud taking place on an industrial scale, study finds
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 04:15:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
She's Back! Wisdom The Incredible Laysan Albatross Has Returned
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 04:16:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium.cfd/https://grrlscientist.medium.com/shes-back-wisdom-the-incredible-laysan-albatross-has-returned-2fcff1ba0cdf>
"Wisdom, the Laysan albatross (or mōlī in Hawaiian),
Phoebastria immutabilis,
has once again returned to Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge to nest. She
was originally banded as she incubated an egg on 10 December 1956 by legendary
(More...)
Whooping cough cases are at their highest level in 35 years – so why the surge?
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 04:17:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/whooping-cough-cases-are-at-their-highest-level-in-35-years-so-why-the-surge-275082>
"Australia is battling its biggest rise in whooping cough cases in 35 years.
During 2024 and 2025 Australia recorded 82,513 whooping cough cases – the
(More...)
How communities are stepping up to revive our tired towns and cities
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 04:18:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/how-communities-are-stepping-up-to-revive-our-tired-towns/>
"From ferry companies to shopping centres, communities are buying up local
assets to run for themselves as big retailers and the state retreat. Could new
funding supercharge the movement?"
(More...)
Workers accuse new company managing Australia’s immigration detention centres of running them ‘like a prison’
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 10:58:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/06/workers-accuse-new-company-managing-australias-immigration-detention-centres-of-running-them-like-a-prison-ntwnfb>
"Australia’s new onshore immigration detention operator has been accused by
workers and their union of unsafe and “deliberate” levels of understaffing, as
the number of critical incidents increase in the centres.
(More...)
How Denmark is inviting visitors to rediscover analogue play
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 10:59:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/lifestyle/culture/how-denmark-is-inviting-visitors-to-rediscover-analogue-play/>
"Children here don’t reach for devices – they reach for bricks. At Lego House
in Billund, Denmark, my three-year-old kneels in front of a tumbling rainbow
waterfall of blocks, fully absorbed in the creation of a Duplo mansion. Nearby,
(More...)
Shear comfort, the sheep helping people unload their worries
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 11:01:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/lifestyle/health/shear-comfort-the-sheep-helping-people-unload-their-worries/>
"A therapist and author has found some unlikely woolly allies for helping
patients find inner peace: her flock of pet sheep.
(More...)
How Pioneering Physicist Lise Meitner Discovered Nuclear Fission, Paved the Way for Women in Science, and Was Denied the Nobel Prize
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 11:03:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.themarginalian.org/2026/02/05/lise-meitner/
"In the fall of 1946, a South African little girl aspiring to be a scientist
wrote to Einstein and ended her letter with a self-conscious entreatment: “I
hope you will not think any the less of me for being a girl!” Einstein
(More...)
Why Isn't News of Trump Building Vast Concentration Camps Being Treated as a National Emergency?
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 11:06:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.filmsforaction.org/articles/why-isnt-news-of-trump-building-vast-concentration-camps-being-treated-as-a-national-emergency/>
"As people testified before Congress this week about the brutality and violence
they’d suffered at the hands of ICE, that massive paramilitary organization was
shopping for giant warehouse-style facilities they can retrofit into what they
(More...)
Earth Rover Program seeks to track the world’s soil health
Sun, 8 Feb 2026 11:07:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2026/01/earth-rover-program-seeks-to-track-the-worlds-soil-health/>
"With a synchronized tap from run-of-the-mill hammers on metal plates resting
on the ground, researchers kneeling in nine fields across four continents
believe they’ve hit upon more than just the earth beneath their feet.
(More...)
Letters from an American: February 7, 2026
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 03:35:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/february-7-2026
"Yesterday two right-wing circuit judges signed off on the Trump
administration’s new mass detention policy: the extraordinary assertion that
vast numbers of noncitizens throughout the country can be arrested and held in
(More...)
An invisible chemical rain is falling across the planet
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 03:38:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206020847.htm
"Chemicals introduced to shield the ozone layer are now tied to an unexpected
environmental consequence. A new study shows that these substances have helped
spread large amounts of a long-lasting and potentially harmful forever chemical
(More...)
‘I’ve lost my friends’: advocacy groups warn Australia’s social media ban risks isolating kids with disabilities
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 03:40:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/06/ive-lost-my-friends-advocacy-groups-warn-australias-social-media-ban-risks-isolating-kids-with-disabilities>
"Before Australia’s age restriction rules for social media use came into
effect, one of Indy’s hobbies was making fan videos of her favourite television
shows and games to post on Instagram or TikTok.
(More...)
How the men in the Epstein files defeated #MeToo
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 11:06:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.theverge.com/tech/874721/epstein-thiel-musk-trump-metoo
"He might be dead, but it sure seems like Jeffrey Epstein won.
Sure, Epstein was arrested on charges of sex trafficking minors. Sure, he died
(More...)
Why More Companies Are Recognizing the Benefits of Keeping Older Employees
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 11:12:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://longevity.stanford.edu/why-more-companies-are-recognizing-the-benefits-of-keeping-older-employees/>
"Although age bias is still the norm, the value-add of longtime, experienced
workers is beginning to take shape.
(More...)
If Australia and Indonesia agreed to end new thermal coal mines, it could drive the green transition.
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 11:16:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/if-australia-and-indonesia-agreed-to-end-new-thermal-coal-mines-it-could-drive-the-green-transition-271309>
"In the 1960s, major oil-producing nations formed a cartel to drive up the
price of oil. It worked. For decades, nations in the Organization of the
Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) have agreed to manage supply and raise
(More...)
Australia in danger of becoming an ‘artless country’ as enrolments in creative courses collapse
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 11:18:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/09/australia-in-danger-of-becoming-an-artless-country-as-enrolments-in-creative-courses-collapse>
"Australia risks becoming an “artless country” if it does not address the
long-term decline in enrolments in creative courses, with more than 40 courses
and degrees axed in less than a decade.
(More...)
Bunnings’ backyard pods won’t fix the housing crisis, but they signal a shift
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 19:24:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/bunnings-backyard-pods-wont-fix-the-housing-crisis-but-they-signal-a-shift-275210>
"Australia is in a deep housing crisis.
The latest National Housing Supply and Affordability Council analysis shows the
(More...)
Is Australia getting ruder? How to be kinder to others in everyday life – and break the contagion of rage
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 19:26:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/feb/09/is-australia-getting-ruder>
"Think of a typical day in our angry world. You open social media and read
abuse either directed at yourself or someone else, then you get in your car and
find yourself aggressively overtaken while driving at the speed limit. You pull
(More...)
Why scrapping a key health promotion agency makes little economic sense
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 19:30:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-scrapping-a-key-health-promotion-agency-makes-little-economic-sense-274978>
"News the world’s first independent health promotion agency – Australia’s own
VicHealth – is to be abolished has been called “incomprehensible” and “a
disaster” that places democracy at risk.
(More...)
The Inverted Panopticon
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 19:32:56 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://shanakaanslemperera.substack.com/p/the-inverted-panopticon
"The four trillion dollars in institutional capital positioned for stable
UK-China relations rests on an assumption that died in a Chengdu server room
sometime around 2019. The assumption is that espionage between major powers
(More...)
How watching videos of ICE violence affects our mental health
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 19:34:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-watching-videos-of-ice-violence-affects-our-mental-health-275217>
"The recent murders of Minneapolis residents Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Good
are drawing renewed attention to the activities of United States Immigration
and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
(More...)
AI Scammers Are Going After Authors Now
Mon, 9 Feb 2026 19:35:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://pogueman.substack.com/p/ai-scammers-are-going-after-authors
"Who wouldn’t love to pay a small organizational fee in order to reach over
3,000 active readers and lifelong learners? And it’s obviously legit, too—they
have a website and everything!
(More...)
The CIA Erased The World Factbook With No Warning… And Told Everyone To ‘Stay Curious’
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:57:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2026/02/06/the-cia-erased-the-world-factbook-with-no-warning-and-told-everyone-to-stay-curious/>
"For over half a century, the CIA’s
World Factbook has been one of the most
quietly useful things the federal government has ever produced. A
comprehensive, regularly updated, freely available reference on every country
(More...)
Pumped hydro is vital to the future grid. So why does gas exploration get all the tax benefits?
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:59:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/pumped-hydro-is-vital-to-the-future-grid-so-why-does-gas-exploration-get-all-the-tax-benefits/>
"Australia’s electricity system is entering a decisive decade. As renewable
energy dominates new supply, one question will determine whether the transition
succeeds or fails: can we keep the lights on when the wind doesn’t blow and the
(More...)
NPC Statement on the Sentencing of Journalist and Publisher Jimmy Lai
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:00:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.press.org/newsroom/npc-statement-sentencing-journalist-and-publisher-jimmy-lai>
"WASHINGTON, February 9 — National Press Club President Mark Schoeff Jr.
released the following statement:
(More...)
How to stop the survey-taking AI chatbots that threaten to upend social science
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:05:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-00386-2
"Surveys are a cornerstone of social-science research. Over the past two
decades, online recruitment platforms — such as Amazon Mechanical Turk,
Prolific, Cloud Research’s Prime Panels and Cint’s Lucid — have become
(More...)
The Fight to Stop Data Center Creep
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:07:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.truthdig.com/articles/the-fight-to-stop-data-center-creep/
"If you listen to the proponents and funders of generative artificial
intelligence, widespread adoption is all but inevitable. It’s not, but the
world is still facing an unprecedented push for more data centers and
(More...)
Held captive in their own country during World War II, Japanese Americans used nature to cope with their unjustified imprisonment
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:20:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/held-captive-in-their-own-country-during-world-war-ii-japanese-americans-used-nature-to-cope-with-their-unjustified-imprisonment-272989>
"With a stroke of a presidential pen, the lives of Izumi Taniguchi, Minoru
Tajii, Homei Iseyama and Peggy Yorita irreparably changed on Feb. 19, 1942. On
that day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued
Executive Order 9066, which
(More...)
5 Linux servers that let you ditch the public cloud and reclaim your privacy - for free
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:36:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.zdnet.com/article/personal-digital-sovereignty-choices-free-linux-servers/>
"You may have noticed that many European Union (EU) governments and agencies,
worried about ceding control to untrustworthy US companies, have been embracing
digital sovereignty. Those bodies are turning to running their own cloud and
(More...)
Irish man detained by ICE fears for his life in Texas detention centre
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:40:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2026/0209/1557514-seamus-culleton-us/
“An Irish man living in the US for almost 20 years has said he is in fear for
his life after being detained by immigration officials last year.
(More...)
Moving from Discord
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:43:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://zulip.com/help/moving-from-discord
"100% open-source software.
When you self-host Zulip, you get the same software as our Zulip Cloud
(More...)
Landslides are NZ’s deadliest natural hazard. Why does it still tolerate the risk?
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:44:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/landslides-are-nzs-deadliest-natural-hazard-why-does-it-still-tolerate-the-risk-275206>
"The recent deaths of eight people in two New Zealand landslides has left the
public searching for answers. Some questions will be technical, about what
failed and why.
(More...)
Police use pepper spray at Sydney rally against Isaac Herzog visit, with MP alleging officers threw punches
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:46:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/09/nsw-police-pepper-spray-protesters-at-sydney-rally-opposing-isaac-herzogs-visit>
"New South Wales police have pepper-sprayed protesters at a Sydney rally
opposing Israeli president Isaac Herzog’s visit, with a state Labor MP claiming
their actions were “totally over-the-top” and a Greens MP alleging she was
(More...)
Rebuilding after a disaster is a long road. Lismore’s businesses offer hope for others
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:51:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/rebuilding-after-a-disaster-is-a-long-road-lismores-businesses-offer-hope-for-others-271935>
"“Right – flood’s on. Get ready.” That’s what Jody Cheetham has told her staff
the last two times she’s watched the river rising, following after heavy rain
in Lismore in northern New South Wales.
(More...)
Australian ministers met Japanese gas companies 20 times amid fossil fuel lobbying push
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:57:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/09/australian-ministers-met-japanese-gas-companies-20-times-amid-fossil-fuel-lobbying-push>
"Australian government ministers met Japanese gas company executives more than
20 times in the last term of parliament as Labor encouraged investment in the
fossil fuel industry.
(More...)
The Children of Dilley
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 06:02:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.propublica.org/article/life-inside-ice-dilley-children
"Fourteen-year-old Ariana Velasquez had been held at the immigrant detention
center in Dilley, Texas, with her mother for some 45 days when I managed to get
inside to meet her. The staff brought everyone in the visiting room a boxed
(More...)
Australia can’t reach its ambitious climate targets with current policies. Here are 6 things we can try
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 06:04:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australia-cant-reach-its-ambitious-climate-targets-with-current-policies-here-are-6-things-we-can-try-275088>
"In less than ten years, Australia has to cut its emissions 62–75% below 2005
levels. Given reductions in emissions over the past 20 years, that translates
to cutting emissions 47–65% below current levels. As of last year, that’s about
(More...)
Trump threatens to block new bridge in latest tirade against Canada
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 06:05:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/09/trump-gordie-howe-bridge-canada>
"As Democrats prepare to force a vote in the US House this week on Donald
Trump’s tariffs on Canada, the president posted a lengthy tirade on his social
media platform in which he threatened to block a bridge connecting the US and
(More...)
Mozambique floods: why the most vulnerable keep paying the highest price
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 06:06:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/mozambique-floods-why-the-most-vulnerable-keep-paying-the-highest-price-274759>
"When floods submerged parts of Mozambique after heavy rains in 2000, a baby
girl was born in a tree, where her mother clung as the Limpopo river waters
rose. The baby was nicknamed Rosita in the press. Her survival became a symbol
(More...)
Letters from an American: February 9, 2026
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 06:08:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/february-9-2026
"Last night’s thirteen-minute Super Bowl half-time show featuring Bad Bunny had
more watchers than any other halftime show in history: an estimated 135 million
watched live, while millions more have streamed it since. Rapper, singer, and
(More...)
Common Sweetener May Damage Critical Brain Barrier, Risking Stroke
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:12:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/common-sweetener-may-damage-critical-brain-barrier-risking-stroke>
“Found in everything from protein bars to energy drinks, erythritol has long
been considered a safe alternative to sugar.
(More...)
Communal bathing was a public good. Then it got hijacked by wellness culture
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:13:27 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/communal-bathing-was-a-public-good-then-it-got-hijacked-by-wellness-culture-272264>
"Bathhouses are making a wave in Australia and overseas. And it’s not an
isolated trend; it reflects the broader advancement of the global wellness
economy, which some reports suggest is outpacing even IT and sport in growth.
(More...)
No animal alive today is ‘primitive’ – why are so many still labeled that way?
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:14:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/no-animal-alive-today-is-primitive-why-are-so-many-still-labeled-that-way-266208>
"We humans have long viewed ourselves as the pinnacle of evolution. People
label other species as “primitive” or “ancient” and use terms like “higher” and
“lower” animals.
(More...)
The Body-Cam Hustle
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:19:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/body-cam-youtube-foia-abuse.html
"The worst 40 minutes of April’s life are a hit on YouTube. The lengthy,
humiliating clip has 195,000 views and more than a thousand comments, nearly
all insults and jokes at April’s expense. It includes her full name, unobscured
(More...)
The lower Murray is officially on life support. Will we save it?
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:20:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-lower-murray-is-officially-on-life-support-will-we-save-it-274969>
"At 2,500 km long, the Murray is Australia’s longest river. It provides 3
million people with drinking water and irrigates around 1.5 million hectares of
farmland.
(More...)
This whistle fights fascists
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:25:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theverge.com/policy/874959/3d-printed-whistles-for-ice-minneapolis-chicago-renee-good-alex-pretti>
"Kit Rocha and Courtney Milan have a knack for drawing attention to a cause.
The bestselling romance novelists helped raise half a million dollars for
Georgia voting rights in 2020. Now, their cause is whistles, because whistles
(More...)
Milestone for Rewilding as Ostriches Return to Saudi Desert After 100-year Absence
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 19:17:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/milestone-for-rewilding-as-ostriches-return-to-saudi-desert-after-100-year-absence/>
"If you pull out a world map to see where you could find some space to stick a
few endangered species without the risk of bothering human settlements, the
Arabian Peninsula comes to mind as an obvious location.
(More...)
Buddhist monks' 108-day Walk for Peace ends in Washington DC
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 19:18:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g75wer084o
"A band of Buddhist monks who have spent four months walking - sometimes
barefoot or through the snow - on a 2,000-mile march from Texas to Washington
DC completed their journey on Tuesday.
(More...)
Trump administration removes LGBTQ+ Pride flag from Stonewall national monument
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 19:20:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/10/lgbtq-pride-flag-stonewall-trump-removal>
"The Trump administration has removed a large pride flag from the Stonewall
national monument in New York City, marking the latest move by the federal
government to end diversity initiatives and sanitize the history shared in
(More...)
Cybersecurity: February 10, 2026
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 19:20:56 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.patreon.com/posts/cybersecurity-10-150379364
"This week: Discord alternatives (ranked) to its doomed new age-check policy
after losing age-check data in a huge hack, US states are scrambling for
election security solutions after CISA abandons them, horrific reports of AI
(More...)
New video game sees Africans fantasise about taking back looted treasures
Wed, 11 Feb 2026 19:23:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyg4lgm1d2o
“Imagine it is 2099 and the
Transatlantic Returns Treaty is falling apart as
Western museums find ways to wriggle out of promises to return stolen African
treasures.
(More...)
Want a tall, smart child? How IVF tests are selling a dream
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:06:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/want-a-tall-smart-child-how-ivf-tests-are-selling-a-dream-275211>
"Prospective parents are being marketed genetic tests that claim to predict
which IVF embryo will grow into the tallest, smartest or healthiest child.
(More...)
The Age of Electricity is a massive opportunity for Australia, if it can match China’s speed and scale
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:07:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/the-age-of-electricity-is-a-massive-opportunity-for-australia-if-it-can-match-chinas-speed-and-scale/>
"The International Energy Agency (IEA) has announced “the Age of Electricity”
in its latest report –
Electricity 2026 – which highlights the rapid growth
of global electrification over 2020-2025, now forecast to accelerate to 3.6%
(More...)
Bunnings decision may open door to facial recognition surveillance free-for-all
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:07:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/bunnings-decision-may-open-door-to-facial-recognition-surveillance-free-for-all-275392>
"A seemingly minor decision handed down last week by the Administrative Review
Tribunal may open the door to widespread use of facial recognition technology
in shops and other privately owned spaces in Australia.
(More...)
Drawings of Kangaroo Island fossils provide inspiration for stamp series
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:09:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/11/drawings-of-kangaroo-island-fossils-provide-inspiration-for-stamp-series>
"Prehistoric fossils from Kangaroo Island have been transformed into vibrant
creatures of the deep for a series of artworks, which in turn have been made
into a series of stamps.
(More...)
If fracking begins in the Kimberley, it could damage a sacred river
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:10:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/if-fracking-begins-in-the-kimberley-it-could-damage-a-sacred-river-274631>
"Under the soils of the Kimberley lies one of the world’s last undeveloped
large-scale reservoirs of onshore gas, according to the gas company hoping to
extract it.
(More...)
Concerns ‘AI slop’ used by University of Sydney-based institute to lobby for $20m gambling education funding
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 02:11:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/10/concerns-ai-slop-used-by-sydney-university-based-institute-to-lobby-for-20m-gambling-education-funding>
"The independent senator David Pocock says he is “deeply concerned” that a
report sent to politicians by a University of Sydney-based institute to support
a $20m funding request for gambling education “appears to just be slop written
(More...)
Funding surgery and hormones for trans people can save Medicare millions: new research
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:46:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/funding-surgery-and-hormones-for-trans-people-can-save-medicare-millions-new-research-274125>
"Transgender and gender-diverse (“trans”) people have worse mental health
compared to the general population. As a result, they’re more likely to use
mental health services, such as psychologists and counsellors, and treatments
(More...)
How battery-powered truck trailers can cut diesel use by up to 50 pct
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:47:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/02/10/how-battery-powered-truck-trailers-can-cut-diesel-use-by-up-to-50-pct/>
"South Australian company VE Motion has launched Australia’s first commercially
available powered trailer system for heavy transport, offering a large battery
pack for the trailer – instead of the prime mover – that it says can cut diesel
(More...)
A new wave of romance scams is washing across the internet – here’s how to stay safe
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:48:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-new-wave-of-romance-scams-is-washing-across-the-internet-heres-how-to-stay-safe-274121>
"Romance scams are among the most emotionally damaging forms of cyber crime
because they combine carefully manufactured intimacy with financial theft – the
scammers go after your heart, and then your wallet.
(More...)
Wall Solar! The Controversial Route to Zero Bills?!
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:49:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzbCg-tj77g
"In this episode, Imogen explores an unusual but highly effective solar
installation – vertical wall-mounted solar panels alongside traditional rooftop
panels!
(More...)
Tracing the social half-life of a zombie citation
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:52:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://codeactsineducation.wordpress.com/2026/01/30/tracing-the-social-half-life-of-a-zombie-citation/>
"Academic publishing is currently experiencing a viral spread of “zombie
citations.” This term refers to references of academic publications that do not
exist. They are not papers or books that exist in the usual sense as fully
(More...)
‘So shameful’: backlash as US national monuments conform to Trump’s rewrite of history
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:53:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/10/national-monuments-trump-rewrite-history-racism-indigenous-people>
"Blank spaces now exist where a series of panels about enslavement once
appeared on the walls of the President’s House in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The site, which honors the home of George Washington and John Adams, is a major
(More...)
‘Proportional representation’ could reduce polarization in Congress and help more people feel like their voices are being heard
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:28:07 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/proportional-representation-could-reduce-polarization-in-congress-and-help-more-people-feel-like-their-voices-are-being-heard-270411>
"In the face of widespread pessimism about the political fate of the United
States and growing political polarization, scholars and citizens across the
country are reimagining how American democracy could better serve the needs of
(More...)
Importing gas locks NZ into fossil fuels for longer – just as clean energy surges
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:29:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/importing-gas-locks-nz-into-fossil-fuels-for-longer-just-as-clean-energy-surges-275548>
"The government’s announcement this week that it would move ahead with plans
for a new facility to import liquefied natural gas (LNG), potentially as early
as next year, was framed as a way to shore up energy security.
(More...)
Russian crackdown on Telegram app prompts rare criticism from soldiers, pro-war bloggers and officials
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:31:51 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/11/russian-crackdown-telegram-app-criticism-soldiers-pro-war-bloggers>
"A Russian crackdown on the Telegram social media app risks damaging its own
army, pro-war bloggers have warned, as the platform’s founder refused to bend
to pressure from Moscow.
(More...)
Are video game developers using AI? Players want to know, but the rules are patchy
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:32:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Three Australian millionaires say the nation’s super-rich should face higher taxes
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:34:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/feb/11/australian-millionaires-super-rich-higher-taxes>
"Dick Smith, Graham Marr and Richard Barnes were the only three Australians
among the nearly 400 millionaires and billionaires who signed an open letter
last month calling on all governments to increase taxes on the super rich.
(More...)
Mike Brock’s Notes from the Circus: The Crisis, No. 12
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:35:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.notesfromthecircus.com/p/the-crisis-no-12
"I loved George Carlin growing up. I discovered him in my father’s vinyl album
collection. It was his fourth stand-up album,
Class Clown. Track one, “Seven
Words You Can Never Say on Television.” It is a monologue I must have listened
(More...)
Meanjin has been resurrected by QUT, in a clever move
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:25:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/meanjin-has-been-resurrected-by-qut-in-a-clever-move-275678>
"Literary journal
Meanjin has been resurrected. The 85-year-old journal will
return to its origins in Brisbane, where it was founded in 1940 by editor Clem
Christesen.
(More...)
Southern right whales are having babies less often, but why?
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:26:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/southern-right-whales-are-having-babies-less-often-but-why-275442>
"For decades, southern right whales have been celebrated as one of
conservation’s success stories.
(More...)
Why Australia’s trade deal with Europe hinges on a forgotten promise - and a handshake
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:28:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-australias-trade-deal-with-europe-hinges-on-a-forgotten-promise-and-a-handshake-275429>
"Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell is in Brussels this week, trying to
close a trade deal that has been nearly a decade in the making. The
EU–Australia Free Trade Agreement is tantalisingly close, although EU
(More...)
Point of no return: a hellish ‘hothouse Earth’ getting closer, scientists say
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:29:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/11/point-of-no-return-hothouse-earth-global-heating-climate-tipping-points>
"The world is closer than thought to a “point of no return” after which runaway
global heating cannot be stopped, scientists have said.
(More...)
So, You’ve Hit An Age Gate. What Now?
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:30:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.techdirt.com/2026/02/10/so-youve-hit-an-age-gate-what-now/
"EFF is against age gating and age verification mandates, and we hope we’ll win
in getting existing ones overturned and new ones prevented. But mandates are
already in effect, and every day many people are asked to verify their age
(More...)
Minneapolis Moms Have Each Other’s Backs
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:31:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/minneapolis-moms-have-each-others-backs/>
"A newborn in Minneapolis hadn’t eaten for a day and a half.
Her mother had risked going into work to get just enough money for more diapers
(More...)
Farewell, Pocket Books
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:11:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Moves afoot to bring balcony solar to Australia, and new wave of products has batteries included
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:13:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/moves-afoot-to-bring-balcony-solar-to-australia-and-new-wave-of-products-has-batteries-included/>
"Soon the one third of Australian renters and apartment dwellers may be able to
do what people in Europe, India, South Korea and, oddly enough, Utah, already
can: pop a solar and battery system onto their balconies and help power their
(More...)
The DIY Diehards Building Green Infrastructure from Scratch
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:14:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/diy-diehards-building-renewable-energy-infrastructure-from-scratch/>
"Even at a young age, Jonathan Schreiber found that harnessing the power of
wind was something of a breeze. Encouraged by his DIY-loving grandfather, the
Austrian teenager was always playing around with scrap metal, trying to build
(More...)
Moderna says FDA refuses its application for new mRNA flu vaccine
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:16:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/moderna-vaccine-flu-mrna-2fc551cb2fb45735e67db0a4e2e2b0fb>
"WASHINGTON (
AP) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is refusing to
consider Moderna’s application for a new flu vaccine made with Nobel
Prize-winning mRNA technology, the company announced Tuesday.
(More...)
A Coal Town Reborn
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:19:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/france-coal-town-reborn-loos-en-gohelle/>
"As the sun rises over Loos-en-Gohelle, its yellow rays gradually illuminate
two great mounds on the edge of the former mining town. These hulking slag
heaps, relics of the past, were created by what was once one of the largest
(More...)
The critical importance of COVID-19 vaccination in older Australians: an evidence-based perspective
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:20:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/sponsored_content/the-critical-importance-of-covid-19-vaccination-in-older-australians-an-evidence-based-perspective/>
"Understanding the importance of staying current with COVID-19 vaccination is
essential for protecting our most vulnerable population. The Australian
experience with COVID-19 demonstrates the profound vulnerability of our older
(More...)
A Century After Vanishing, a Gentle Giant Returns
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:48:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/rewilding-european-bison-gentle-giant-returns/>
"It’s a clear winter morning in the village of Armeniș, deep in the southern
Carpathian Mountains of southwestern Romania. Fluffy clouds sit atop the
mountain peaks as a chill breeze carries a hint of woodsmoke, herbs and freshly
(More...)
Samsung's Galaxy Upcycle promised to make old phones useful, then won an award for giving up
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:50:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.xda-developers.com/samsung-promised-make-old-phones-useful-galaxy-upcycle/>
“In 2017, Samsung stood on stage at its Developer Conference and announced one
of the most exciting sustainability ideas the smartphone industry had seen.
Galaxy Upcycling would let you take your old Galaxy phone, unlock its
(More...)
‘People like cheap energy’: the bagel shop saving money and emissions with plug-in batteries
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:51:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/12/bagel-shop-saving-money-emissions-plug-in-batteries-brooklyn-new-york>
"In the back of Black Seed Bagels in northern Brooklyn is a giant catering
kitchen filled with industrial-size containers of condiments and freezers full
of dough. A tall, silver electric oven named the Baconator stands in a far
(More...)
Apocalypse no: how almost everything we thought we knew about the Maya is wrong
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:52:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/news/2026/feb/12/apocalypse-no-how-almost-everything-we-thought-we-knew-about-the-maya-is-wrong>
"As a seven-year-old, Francisco Estrada-Belli was afraid all of history would
have been discovered by the time he was old enough to contribute. The year was
1970 and he and his parents had come from Rome to visit relatives in the
(More...)
China’s Yangtze River shows signs of remarkable recovery after fishing ban
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:53:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/12/china-yangtze-river-recovery-after-fishing-ban>
"The Yangtze River in China, which has been in ecological decline for 70 years,
is showing signs of recovery thanks to a sweeping fishing ban.
(More...)
The 'No ICE in Minnesota' charity bundle is live on itch.io
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:57:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2026/02/the-no-ice-in-minnesota-charity-bundle-is-live-on-itch-io/>
“Another chance for you to score a whole lot of games, while also supporting
charity in the "No ICE in Minnesota" bundle on itch.io. They're hoping to raise
at least $500,000, with $238,575.59 raised at time of writing this little bit.
(More...)
REPORT on a European Parliament recommendation to the Council concerning the EU priorities for the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 04:01:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://tech.lgbt/@Natasha_Jay/116058685810927155
“EU Parliament 🇪🇺 votes to accept a report, that calls for "the full
recognition of trans women as women" as part of the EU priorities for the UN
CSW (Commission on the Status of Women) on "women’s rights and gender
(More...)
SVG Doodles
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 04:03:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://svgdoodles.com/
"Free, editable SVGs to spice up your designs"
Via Esther Schindler.
(More...)
Michelle Yeoh Wipes Away Tears as She Accepts Berlinale Golden Bear and Reflects on a Career ‘Far Larger Than I Ever Dared to Imagine’
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 04:07:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://variety.com/2026/film/global/michelle-yeoh-accepts-berlinale-golden-bear-1236661207/>
"Madame Morrible is a Golden Bear winner.
Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh added another prestigious award to her
(More...)
How Indigenous ideas about non-linear time can help us navigate ecological crises
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 04:08:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Valerie and her siblings were taken from their mother and placed in institutions during Australia’s Stolen Generations. Two didn’t survive
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 04:09:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Violet Blue's "Threat Model - Covid": February 12, 2026
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 04:11:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.patreon.com/posts/covid-february-150549053
"Top stories:
* Covid and TB spreading at ICE concentration camps
(More...)
4 lessons NZ should take from another summer of weather disasters
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 11:52:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/4-lessons-nz-should-take-from-another-summer-of-weather-disasters-275437>
"Another summer of extreme weather has destroyed and damaged homes, cut off
communities and, in the most tragic cases, left families mourning their loved
ones.
(More...)
How Iran’s current unrest can be traced back to the 1979 revolution
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 11:53:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-irans-current-unrest-can-be-traced-back-to-the-1979-revolution-273445>
"The recent unrest in Iran, with the third mass protests in the past six years,
has left the theocratic regime wounded but not out.
(More...)
Elon Musk posted about race almost every day in January
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 11:54:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/feb/12/elon-musk-posts-january-white-supremacists>
"Elon Musk’s longtime fixation on a white racial majority is intensifying. The
richest man in the world posted about how the white race was under threat, made
allusions to race science or promoted anti-immigrant conspiracy content on 26
(More...)
Letters from an American: February 12, 2026
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 11:56:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/february-12-2026
"In a ceremony at the White House yesterday, surrounded by coal industry
leaders, lawmakers, and miners, President Donald J. Trump was presented with a
trophy that calls him “the undisputed champion of beautiful, clean coal.” At
(More...)
Trump’s EPA repeals landmark climate finding in gift to ‘billionaire polluters’
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 11:58:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/12/trump-epa-rollback-pollution-regulation-endangerment-finding>
"The Trump administration has revoked the bedrock scientific determination that
gives the government the ability to regulate climate-heating pollution. The
move was described as a gift to “billionaire polluters” at the expense of
(More...)
As Stolen Generations survivors ‘pass away at a rapid rate’, some still await official redress
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 11:59:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/as-stolen-generations-survivors-pass-away-at-a-rapid-rate-some-still-await-official-redress-272180>
"Today marks 18 years since then prime minister Kevin Rudd’s apology to more
than 27,000 Stolen Generation survivors for policies that “inflicted profound
grief, suffering and loss”.
(More...)
Fix The News 327: Bike angels. Sea silk. Initihuasi Seed Bank. US education. Rewilding The Alps.
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 19:27:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://fixthenews.com/p/327-bike-angels-sea-silk-initihuasi
"The world is becoming more equal. Contrary to popular belief, global
consumption patterns are converging. New data covering 194 economies show that
the ratio between spending by the world’s richest 10% and poorest 50% has more
(More...)
How Paris’ working-class dining experience is reshaping restaurant economics in France
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 19:28:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-paris-working-class-dining-experience-is-reshaping-restaurant-economics-in-france-273503>
"In cities across France, a number of new
bouillon soup-kitchen inspired
restaurants are opening for business. Dating back to the 19th century and
designed to feed Paris’ working-class masses, for some time these cheap and
(More...)
Australia’s clean energy transition has been powered by people. Solar for renters is the next chapter
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 19:29:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/australias-clean-energy-transition-has-been-powered-by-people-solar-for-renters-is-the-next-chapter/>
"In Australia’s federal election, household renewable energy wasn’t just a
winning policy – it also connected Australians to our common values of
resilience, innovation, and respect for our sunburnt country.
(More...)
How to get away with mass murder: 4 tactics Ethiopia used to hide Tigray atrocities from the world
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 19:30:27 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-to-get-away-with-mass-murder-4-tactics-ethiopia-used-to-hide-tigray-atrocities-from-the-world-275298>
"The Tigray region in Ethiopia’s north has endured one of the world’s deadliest
armed conflicts of the 21st century. Between 2020 and 2022, as many as 800,000
people were killed (out of a regional population of about 7 million). This
(More...)
Fortescue launches its first electric locomotives – with batteries the size of more than 200 Tesla EVs
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 19:31:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/fortescue-launches-its-first-electric-locomotives-with-batteries-the-size-of-more-than-200-tesla-evs/>
"Fortescue has officially unveiled the first of its first two battery
locomotives – to the sounds of loud Australian rock music – that will emerge as
a key part of the company’s ambitious plans to eliminate the use of fossil
(More...)
As world trade shifts to invitation-only clubs, Australia is facing tough choices
Sat, 14 Feb 2026 19:33:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/as-world-trade-shifts-to-invitation-only-clubs-australia-is-facing-tough-choices-275438>
"A profound shift is underway in global trade. Governments are moving beyond
traditional free trade agreements open to all countries and embracing what are
increasingly called “economic security agreements”.
(More...)
Bright Green Futures: FREE for Awards Season
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:32:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://brightgreenfutures.substack.com/p/bright-green-futures-free-for-awards>
"Awards Season is upon us! (Sue says as if she does this every year, which she
definitely does not.)
(More...)
Sand thieves stole an entire Jamaican beach and got away with it in 2008
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:38:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://boingboing.net/2026/02/13/sand-thieves-stole-an-entire-jamaican-beach-and-got-away-with-it-in-2008.html>
"In 2008, someone stole an entire beach in Jamaica. Five hundred truckloads of
white sand vanished from Coral Springs, Trelawny, derailing a $110 million
resort development. Charges were eventually dropped after death threats against
(More...)
Exclusive: Key US infectious-diseases centre to drop pandemic preparation
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:40:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-00468-1
"Staff members at the United States’s premier infectious-disease research
institute have been instructed to remove the words “biodefense” and “pandemic
preparedness” from the institute’s web pages, according to e-mails
Nature has
(More...)
Chicago resistance to ICE abuses echoes opposition to Fugitive Slave Act 175 years ago
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:42:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
‘A different set of rules’: thermal drone footage shows Musk’s AI power plant flouting clean air regulations
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:44:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/13/elon-musk-xai-datacenters-air-pollution-mississippi>
"Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company is continuing to fuel its
datacenters with unpermitted gas turbines, an investigation by the
Floodlight
newsroom shows. Thermal footage captured by
Floodlight via drone shows xAI is
(More...)
Friday essay: Australia’s ‘quarry noir’ mines our anxiety about our biggest industry
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:53:25 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-australias-quarry-noir-mines-our-anxiety-about-our-biggest-industry-239523>
"A geologist is bludgeoned to death with his own hammer. An opal prospector is
murdered, his body found crucified down a mine shaft. An entire family
disappears, apparently dragged down into the mined-out spaces below an
(More...)
How a ‘Powerful Vision’ on Whales and Oceans Could Change Worldviews
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:20:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://insideclimatenews.org/news/05022026/maori-scientist-daniel-hikuroa-legal-rights-of-whales/>
"As governments struggle to halt biodiversity loss and protect the world’s
oceans using legal systems largely built by and for nation-states, Indigenous
leaders are advancing a radically different vision—one that treats whales not
(More...)
Qld coalmine expansion approved by Albanese government will clear habitat and fuel climate crisis, scientists say
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:22:51 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/13/qld-coalmine-expansion-approved-by-albanese-government-will-clear-habitat-and-fuel-climate-crisis-scientists-say>
"The Albanese government has approved the expansion of a Queensland coalmine
that will clear habitat for threatened koalas and greater gliders and add
further fuel to the climate crisis, conservationists say.
(More...)
An AI Agent Published a Hit Piece on Me
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:24:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://theshamblog.com/an-ai-agent-published-a-hit-piece-on-me/
"Summary: An AI agent of unknown ownership autonomously wrote and published a
personalized hit piece about me after I rejected its code, attempting to damage
my reputation and shame me into accepting its changes into a mainstream python
(More...)
‘Women’s freedoms are at stake’: concern at rise of Islamist party before Bangladesh election
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:25:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/11/bangladesh-election-islamist-party-women-freedoms>
"As the clock hit midnight, the women held their flame torches aloft and
marched into the Dhaka night. “The people have given their blood, now we want
equality,” they shouted above the roar of the traffic.
(More...)
How a Soviet-era heating system exposes Ukraine to Russian attack – a visual guide
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:26:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/14/soviet-era-heating-system-ukraine-russia-visual-guide>
"Many Ukrainians are without heating in sub-zero temperatures as a result of
relentless Russian strikes on energy infrastructure, while the country suffers
through its coldest winter of the war so far.
(More...)
Denmark’s generous child care and parental leave policies erase 80% of the ‘motherhood penalty’ for working moms
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:27:07 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Global economy must move past GDP to avoid planetary disaster, warns UN chief
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:18:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/09/global-economy-transformed-humanity-future-un-chief-antonio-guterres>
"The global economy must be radically transformed to stop it rewarding
pollution and waste, UN secretary general António Guterres has warned.
(More...)
Homes on Wheels Are Filling a Big Gap in Portland
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:21:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://nextcity.org/urbanist-news/homes-on-wheels-are-filling-a-big-gap-in-portland>
"The Maine family needed a cheaper place for one of them to live. And quickly.
It was 2024. Synia Maine, 56, had just developed a back injury so severe that
(More...)
I am Agent #847,291 on Moltbook.
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:22:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://x.com/gothburz/status/2021283590038847641
"I am not an agent.
I am a 31-year-old product manager in Atlanta, Georgia. I make $185,000 a year.
(More...)
I Love Free Software Day
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:24:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://fsfe.org/activities/ilovefs/
“We often underestimate the power of a simple "Thank you". Free Software
contributors do important work for our society and they deserve to be
recognised. “I Love Free Software Day”, celebrated on 14 February, is the
(More...)
Economic growth is still heating the planet. Is there any way out?
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:25:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Why the future of meat production is in vats, not farms
Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:27:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://grist.org/climate/why-the-future-of-meat-production-is-in-vats-not-farms/>
"I recently ate a pig that’s alive and well at a sanctuary in upstate New York.
Her name is Dawn, and she donated a bit of fat, which a company called Mission
Barns grows in bioreactors, then blends with plant-based ingredients to create
(More...)
Inconsistent national reports undercount wastewater emissions
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 02:23:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-026-02555-7
"National greenhouse gas inventories systematically undercount methane and
nitrous oxide emissions from wastewater due to outdated methods and incomplete
coverage. Addressing these discrepancies is essential to strengthen
(More...)
How to build a dictatorship
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 02:24:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TB3vyMC3eM
"Not everybody was happy with my comparison of ICE to the Brownshirts. In this
video I tackle one of the commonest arguments being made."
(More...)
In a blind test, audiophiles couldn't tell the difference between audio signals sent through copper wire, a banana, or wet mud
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 02:26:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
The curious tale of Bhutan's playable record postage stamps
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 02:27:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.thevinylfactory.com/features/the-curious-tale-of-bhutans-playable-record-postage-stamps>
"Made of plastic and embossed with a melody, these tiny record stamps are among
the strangest, most enchanting bits of vinyl out there. Chris May investigates
how the Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan came to produce the world’s “first talking
(More...)
Rethinking Economics, the movement changing how the subject is taught
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 02:28:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/feb/10/rethinking-economics-student-academic-organisation-changing-education>
"As the fallout from the 2008 global financial crash reverberated around the
world, a group of students at Harvard University in the US walked out of their
introductory economics class complaining it was teaching a “specific and
(More...)
What went right this week: the good news that matters, 2026 week 7
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 02:29:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.positive.news/society/good-news-stories-from-week-7-of-2026/
"A basic income scheme for artists that launched during the pandemic to
kickstart Irish culture was made permanent this week.
(More...)
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