#AP renewable energy plants

[todayworldnews2k21]

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister lays foundation for three renewable energy projects with a total capacity of 5,314MW

File photo of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jaganmohan Reddy. Launching renewable energy projects, Mr. Reddy said the State was keeping in step with the global shift from fossil-fuel-based power generation to green energy sources. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday (August 23) virtually laid the foundations for three Renewable…

[reasonsforhope]

"The last coal-fired power plant in New England, which had been the focus of a lawsuit and protests, is set to close in a victory for environmentalists.

Granite Shore Power said Wednesday it reached an agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency to close the Merrimack Station in New Hampshire by June 2028. As part of the deal, the company said the site will be turned into the state’s first renewable energy park that host solar power and battery storage systems. The company also said it would shutter Schiller Station in Portsmouth in December 2025. That facility, which is permitted to use oil, coal and biomass, has not operated for several years...

The 460-megawatt station in Bow has long been a thorn in the side of environmental groups. Most recently, the Sierra Club and the Conservation Law Foundation filed a lawsuit against plant owners, alleging it was violating the Clean Water Act. The plant was owned by Eversource until 2018, when it was sold to Connecticut-based Granite Shore Power. Both were named as defendants.

The environmental groups claimed the plant draws about 287 million gallons (1.1 billion liters) of water per day from the Merrimack River, heats that water as a result of its cooling process, and then discharges the water back into the river at temperatures that often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius).

Climate activists also protested the plant and demanded its closure over concerns it is a major source of air pollution. [Note: Coal plants are by definition major sources of air pollution. x] In one incident, climate activists last year paddled canoes and kayaks down the Merrimack River to the plant site and were arrested after going onto the property.

“This historic victory is a testament to the strength and resolve of those who never wavered in the fight for their communities and future,” Ben Jealous, Sierra Club Executive Director, said in a statement. “The people of New Hampshire and all of New England will soon breathe cleaner air and drink safer water.”

The Sierra Club said the announcement will make New Hampshire the 16th state that is coal-free and New England the second coal-free region in the country."

-via AP News, March 28, 2024

--

Note: It doesn't say it in this article, but the coal plants are being replaced by renewables! Specifically solar and battery farms! Source

[greenwitchcrafts]

March 2024 witch guide

Full moon: March 25th

New moon: March 10th

Sabbats: Ostara-March 19th

March Worm Moon

Known as: Crow Moon, Eagle Moon, Goose Moon, Hrethmonath, Lenting moon, Lentzinmanoth, Moon of Snowblind, Moon of Winds, Plow Moon, Sap Moon, Seed Moon, Sore Eyes Moon, Storm Moon, Sugar Moon & Wind Strong Moon

Element: Water

Zodiac: Pisces & Aries

Nature spirits: Air & water spirits & Mer-people

Deities: Artemis, Astarte, Athena, Cybele, Isis, Luna & Minerva

Animals: Boar, cougar & hedgehog

Birds: Sea crow & sea eagle

Trees: Alder, dogwood & honeysuckle

Herbs: Apple blossom, broom, high John root, Irish moss, pennyroyal, wood betony & yellow dock

Flowers: Daffodil, jonquil & violet

Scents: Apple blossom & honeysuckle

Stones: Aquamarine, bloodstone, jasper, opal &topaz

Colors: Pale-green, red, violet, yellow & white

Energy:  Balance, beginnings, dream work, energy breaking into the open, exploring, fertility, inner development, karma, prosperity, spirituality, success & truth seeking

For many years, it was thought that the name "Worm Moon" referred to the earthworms that appear as the soil warms in spring. This invites robins and other birds to feed—a true sign of spring.

However, more research revealed another explanation. In the 1760s, Captain Jonathan Carver visited the Naudowessie (Dakota) and other Native American tribes and wrote that the name Worm Moon refers to a different sort of “worm”—beetle larvae—which begin to emerge from the thawing bark of trees and other winter hideouts at this time.

March’s full Moon often plays a role in religion, specifically in Christianity, this Moon is known as the Lenten Moon if it is the last full Moon of the winter season (i.e., if it occurs before the spring equinox) or as the Paschal Full Moon if it is the first full Moon of spring (i.e., if it occurs after the spring equinox).

Ostara

Known as: Alban Eiler, Lady Day & Spring/Vernal equinox

Season: Spring

Symbols: 8-spoked wheel, butterflies, chicks, decorated baskets, eggs, feathers, jellybeans, lambs, rabbits, seeds, shamrocks, spring flowers & sunwheels

Colors: Green, indigo, light blue, pastels, pink, red & yellow

Oils/Incense: African violet, florals, ginger, jasmine, lotus, magnolia, rose, sage & strawberry

Animals: Cormorant, hare, hawk, rabbit, sheep, sparrow & swallow

Mythical: Dragon & Unicorn

Stones: Amethyst, aquamarine, bloodstone, moonstone, red jasper & rose quartz

Food: Dairy foods, eggs(hard boiled), fruits, honey, honey cakes, leafy greens, vegetables, pine nuts, pumpkin, sunflower seeds, sprouts & waffles

Herbs/Plants: Acorn, cinquefoil, dogwood, ginger, Irish moss, olive, strawberry & woodruff

Flowers: Celandine, crocus, daffodil, dandelion, Easter lily,  jasmine gorse, honeysuckle, hyssop, iris, jonquil, linden, narcissus, peony, snowdrop, tansy & violet

Goddesses: Aphrodite, Ariadne, Artemis, Athena, Coatlicue, Cybele,Demeter, Diana, Eos, Eostre, Flora, Gaia, Hera, Idunn, Iris, Ishtar, Juno, Minerva, Persephone, Venus & Vesta

Gods: Adonis, Attis, Celi, Cernunnos, Coel, Dagda, Dalon ap Landu, Dumuzi, Green Man, Lord of the Greenwood, Mithras, Odin, Osiris, Ovis & Pan

Issues, Intentions & Powers: Agriculture, balance, beauty, fertility, growth, life, love & rebirth/renewal

Spellwork: Air magick, fertility, new beginnings & water magick

Activities:

• Go on a hike/walk & look for signs of spring

• Add Ostara symbols to decorate your altar space

• Plant vegetable &/or flower seedlings

• Decorate eggs with bright colors

• Set your intentions for the weeks/months ahead

• Start a new class or hobby

• Create eggshell candles

• Make plans & new routines for the future

• Participate in rituals & ceremonies that connect you with energy & the life force of nature

• Have a feast with your friends &/family with sprouts & leafy greens

• Bake hot cross buns or lavender/lemon flavored treats

• Clean & de-clutter your home

• Try a re-birthing/ renewing ritual

• Bring fresh flowers or plants into into the home

• Host a spring & floral themed tea party

• Make egg based food dishes & desserts

This holiday marks the Spring Equinox, which happens before March 19-22. It is the second of three spring celebrations (the midpoint between Imbolc and Beltane)  during which light & darkness are again in balance, with light on the rise. It is a time of new beginnings & of life emerging further from the grips of winter.

There is much debate regarding the origins of Ostara due to the lack of primary sources about this sabbat. One theory is the name of Ostara came from the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre. Another theory is that Eostre is more of a localized goddess in Kent County, England. Despite the questions of her origins, Eostre is associated with modern-day Pagan traditions of Ostara.

There is no evidence that the ancient Greeks or Romans celebrated Ostara, although they did celebrate their own spring festivals, such as the Roman festival of Floralia & the Greek festival of Anthesteria. It was a time to honor the returning sun, fertility & rebirth.

Related festivals:

• Nowruz- March 19th

Nowruz marks the first day of spring & renewal of nature. It is celebrated on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox. It is also celebrated as the beginning of the new year by people all around the world for over 3,000 years in the Balkans, the Black Sea Basin, the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East & other regions.

It promotes values of peace & solidarity between generations & within families as well as reconciliation & neighbourliness. Nowruz plays a significant role in strengthening the ties among peoples based on mutual respect & the ideals of peace and good neighbourliness. 

Traditional customs of Nowruz include fire & water, ritual dances, gift exchanges, reciting poetry, symbolic objects & more; these customs differ between the diverse peoples & countries that celebrate the festival.

• Holi- March 25th

Holi is a popular & significant Hindu festival celebrated as the The festival of colors, Love &Spring. It commemorates eternal and divine love of the deities Radha & Krishna. Additionally, the day signifies the triumph of good over evil, as it celebratess the victory of Vishnu as Narasimha over Hiranyakashipu. Holi originated & is predominantly celebrated in the Indian subcontinent, but has also spread to other regions of Asia & parts of the Western world through the Indian diaspora.

Holi also celebrates the arrival of Spring in India, the end of winter & the blossoming of love. It is also an invocation for a good spring harvest season. It lasts for a night & a day, starting on the evening of the Purnima (full moon day) falling on the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna, which falls around the middle of March in the Gregorian calendar.

• Easter- March 31st

also called Pascha or Resurrection Sunday is a Christian festival & cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day of his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD. It is the culmination of the Passion of Jesus Christ, preceded by Lent (or Great Lent), a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, & penance.

Easter traditions vary across the Christian world & include sunrise services or late-night vigils, exclamations & exchanges of Paschal greetings, flowering the cross & the decoration and the communal breaking of Easter eggs (a symbol of the empty tomb) among many others. The Easter lily is a symbol of the resurrection in Western Christianity traditionally decorates the chancel area of churches on this day & for the rest of Eastertide. Additional customs that have become associated with Easter & are observed by both Christians & some non-Christians include Easter parades, communal dancing, the Easter Bunny & egg hunting.

Other Celebrations:

• Festival of Luna- March 31st

Is a feast day honoring the Goddess Luna who is seen as the divine embodiment of the Moon.

The Temple of Luna was a temple on the Aventine Hill in Rome, dedicated to Luna, the moon goddess. Its dedication was celebrated on March 31st, thus the celebration.

According to Tacitus, it was built by king Servius Tullius. However, the first confirmed reference to a temple to Luna dates to 182 BC & refers to one of its doors being knocked off its posts by a miraculous blast of air & shot into the back of the Temple of Ceres. That account probably places the temple at the north end of the hill, just above porta Trigemina. The temple was struck by lightning around the time of the death of Cinna, as was the temple of Ceres. After the destruction of Corinth, Lucius Mummius Achaicus dedicated some of his spoils from the city to this temple. It was destroyed in the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD & not rebuilt.

Sources:

Farmersalmanac .com

Llewellyn's Complete Book of Correspondences by Sandra Kines

Wikipedia

A Witch's Book of Correspondences by Viktorija Briggs

Encyclopedia britannica

Llewellyn 2024 magical almanac Practical magic for everyday living

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from the Associated Press (AP):

In her first days as Mexico’s new president, Claudia Sheinbaum made a point of distancing herself from the fossil fuel reliance promoted by her predecessor and mentor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, and vowed to resume an energy transition that he halted.

“We are going to boost renewable energies. The goal is that by 2030, they will have a 45% share (of total electricity production),” she said Tuesday in her first public speech in the capital’s Zocalo square, shortly after being sworn in as the country’s first woman president.

Specifics are still scant, but her speech marks a sharp departure from the energy policy of former President López Obrador, a fierce defender of fossil fuels who, among other things, spent more than $20 billion to build a new oil refinery and stopped the auctions that had allowed developers to build solar and wind farms in the country.

The president said in the coming days she will unveil an “ambitious energy transition program” aimed at “the reduction of greenhouse gases that cause climate change.”

Yet Sheinbaum has also promised to strengthen the nation’s Federal Electricity Commission, which owns older plants that mainly burn fossil fuels, and state-owned oil company Pemex.

Even without specifics, experts and environmentalists said the change in rhetoric was notable.

“The terms ‘sustainability’ or ‘renewable energy’ really never appeared,” in López Obrador’s policies, said Rosanety Barrios, who worked for more than a decade at the Mexican Energy Regulatory Commission. “He didn’t use the term in any speech, in any document. And she has been using it all the time.”

[mariacallous]

It’s been hard recently to think about anything other than the wars and humanitarian crises raging around the world. Climate change has left its mark in what was almost certainly the hottest year in human history—there were unprecedented heat waves, intensified forest fires, torrential rain, and floods like those in Libya that caused devastation after two dams burst.

But this has not stopped scientists, innovators, and decisionmakers from working on solutions to our biggest societal challenges—with success. Here is a collection of uplifting news to come out of 2023.

A powerful laser veered lightning strikes off their path

In an instant, millions of volts can damage buildings, spark fires, and harm people—unless the lightning can be redirected. An experiment with a laser beam suggests this is possible. The scientists behind it must now demonstrate that their multimillion-dollar laser would actually work better at critical sites such as airports and rocket launchpads than widely used, cheap lightning rods. Read more at Science.

Asteroid rocks and dust were brought to Earth

The first US mission to collect an asteroid sample, OSIRIS-REx, successfully returned a capsule containing granules and dust from the asteroid Bennu. Early analyses back at NASA’s lab suggest the sample is rich in carbon and water-laden minerals, the building blocks of life on Earth. Read more at WIRED.

Scientists grew mouse embryos for the first time ever in space

What would make humans a truly spacefaring species? If we could reproduce and grow outside of Earth’s atmosphere. It may be that this is possible, an experiment with mice suggests. Scientists managed to grow mouse embryos aboard the International Space Station and return them safely to Earth. Their initial growth appeared to be unaffected by the low gravity and high radiation. Read more at New Scientist.

A rare egg-laying mammal was rediscovered after decades

A species with the spines of a hedgehog, the snout of an anteater, and the feet of a mole seems hard to miss. But the long-beaked echidna Zaglossus attenboroughi—named after British naturalist David Attenborough—had remained hidden until caught on camera for the first time since it was scientifically recorded in 1961. This egg-laying mammal is known to only live in the Cyclops Mountains in the Indonesian province of Papua. Read more at Mongabay.

Countries signed a landmark treaty to protect the high seas

After almost 20 years of negotiations, members of the United Nations agreed to protect marine life in international waters—the two-thirds of the world’s oceans that lie outside of national boundaries. This legal framework enables, for example, the creation of vast marine protected areas (MPAs). It also states that “genetic resources,” such as materials from animals and plants discovered for use in pharmaceuticals or foods, should benefit society as a whole. Read more at The Guardian.

California national park bounces back after wildfire

Two years after California’s largest single wildfire burned almost 70 percent of Lassen Volcanic National Park, the ecosystem remains viable. Shrubs and grasses are growing in burned areas while fungi and insects are decomposing dead tree trunks, leading to a slow recovery. Read more at The Guardian.

Brazil’s top court rules for Indigenous rights in landmark case

A powerful agribusiness lobby tried to place time limits on Indigenous peoples’ right to land. They would have to prove they lived on the land in 1988, when Brazil’s current constitution was ratified. But many Indigenous peoples were expelled from their ancestral lands during the country’s military dictatorship, which lasted from from the 1960s to the 1980s. The Supreme Court in Brazil squashed the proposed time limit for land claims. Read more at AP News.

There could be a large reserve of hydrogen deep beneath the French ground

Hydrogen could power factories, trucks, ships, and airplanes in the future—but producing it requires a lot of energy and is expensive. But the gas also occurs naturally deep in the Earth’s crust, and researchers in France have accidentally stumbled on a potentially large deposit. Next year they plan to begin drilling to collect gas samples from depths of up to 1.8 miles. Read more at the Conversation.

The world may have crossed a solar power tipping point

A new study suggests that solar is on track to become the main source of the world’s energy by 2050—even without more ambitious climate policies being introduced. Renewables are already cheaper than fossil fuels. But in the case of solar energy, obstacles such as integration into electricity grids and financing in developing countries still need to be overcome in order for it to continue to grow as it has in recent years. Read more at the Conversation.

A new type of geothermal power plant is making the internet a little greener

A pilot plant is now helping to power Google data centers in Nevada by harnessing the Earth’s heat deep beneath it. Engineers drilled two boreholes down 7,000 feet, and then connected them by fracking, a technique that’s conventionally used in the oil and gas industry. Water sent down one borehole moves through the fracked rocks below and returns to the surface heated up via the other drilled hole. Read more at WIRED.

World’s first container ship powered by methanol completed its maiden voyage

Laura Maersk, the world’s first methanol-fueled ship, arrived in England in September—a milestone for the shipping industry, which is responsible for about 3 percent of worldwide emissions and struggling to decarbonize. Methanol can be made from food waste at landfills. Read more at the BBC.

A cheap and effective vaccine against malaria got approval

There’s now a second malaria jab that could be produced even quicker than the first and rolled out to more children. It got the thumbs up from the World Health Organization in October, two years after the first one. Malaria is the leading cause of death among children in sub-Saharan Africa. Read more at Stat News.

The largest study of migraine sufferers promises new treatment pathways

In the largest genetic study of migraines to date, researchers have identified more than three times the number of genetic risk factors previously known. This will help to better understand the biological basis of migraines and their subtypes and could speed up the search for new treatments. Read more at Science Daily.

Scientists made breakthrough in cervical cancer treatment

In a UK trial of 500 women, half received existing, cheap drugs before standard radiotherapy. The results showed that with the combined therapy, women’s risk of death or relapse fell by 35 percent. According to the researchers, this is the biggest improvement in treating this disease in over 20 years. Read more in the Independent.

Gene therapy showed early promise for children

Scientists in China reported that some children who were born deaf could hear after a gene therapy trial. Meanwhile, experiments are underway in the USA and France aimed at children with a rare form of genetic deafness. Read more at WIRED.

An implant restored walking ability for Parkinson’s patient

A man with advanced Parkinson’s disease can walk several miles again thanks to a special implant. Positioned in the lumbar region of the spinal cord, the implant sends electrical signals to his leg muscles. The scientists behind the innovation plan to carry out further trials with other patients in the coming year. Read more at SWI swissinfo.ch.

DeepMind’s new AI can predict whether a genetic mutation is likely to cause disease

Researchers at DeepMind, Google's AI company, have trained an AI model to detect DNA mutations, which could speed up the diagnosis of rare diseases. Similar to language models like ChatGPT, this model knows the sequences of amino acids in proteins and can detect anomalies. Read more at WIRED.

AI-powered prediction helped Chileans evacuate from floods

A forecasting tool from Google can predict floods in South America and other regions using a little data on the water flow of rivers, with impressive accuracy. This August, many people in Chile were able to evacuate safely and with their belongings thanks to a warning sent out two days before the flooding. Read more at Fast Company.

The Hollywood actors’ and writers’ battle against AI ended—for now

Generative AI has made it to Hollywood, and after months of strikes, both the writers and actors unions managed to negotiate guardrails on how the technology can be used in film and TV projects. AI cannot, for example, be used to write or rewrite scripts, and studios are not allowed to use scripts to train AI models without the writers’ permission. Read more at WIRED.

Lego bricks are teaching kids Braille

The iconic studs on the Lego bricks allow them to be stacked on top of each other. And now you can learn a new language while you’re at it. The company has started selling bricks with modified amounts of studs that teach the Braille alphabet. The corresponding letter or number represented by a brick’s studs are printed on each brick so that children can learn the code. Read more at TechCrunch.

[benggar]

Saving Mother Earth: It's Not Too Late To Make Difference

It is interesting to note that the average global temperature of the Earth rose by 1 degree Celsius during the last hundred years or so, since the late 19th century. Such a slight change has wrought havoc on our planet.

Urgency of the environmental crisis, is an emergency state around the world that calls for urgent collective action. Among them major threats our earth and future generations face include climate change, deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity.. If no action is undertaken, these will lead to extreme weather occurrences, food shortages, displacement, and even extinction.We'll make this world come together to face all these challenges. We can get this done by using sustainable practices, investment in clean energy, and defending policies which look towards the protection of our surroundings and will build upon a more resilient and sustainable future for everyone.

TECH FOR A GREENER FUTURE

Technology can help protect the nature. It does in several ways. Including:

*Production of renewable sources: Solar, wind, and hydro power.

*Waste reduction: Recycling and composting.

*Environmental monitoring: Satellites and drones.

*Increased productivity in agriculture: Precision farming and biotechnology.

*Cities going green: Smart grids and energy-efficient buildings.

INDIVIDUAL ACTION CAN MAKE DIFFERENCE

Small steps, big impact.

* Reduce, reuse, recycle.

* Conserve energy and water.

* Choose sustainable products.

* Support local businesses.

* Walk, bike, or take public transport.

* Eat less meat.

* Plant trees.

* Educate others.

* Get involved.

What are you doing to make a difference? Share your tips in the comments below!

THE POWER OF CELLECTIVE ACTION

Joinging Forces for a Greener Planet

Together, we can do something. By working together, we can seek out a more sustainable future for everyone-for we share a planet and face common environmental challenges.

RESOURCES AND FURTHER INFORMATIONS

Websites and Organizations:

* World Wildlife Fund (WWF): https://www.worldwildlife.org/

* Greenpeace: https://www.greenpeace.org/international/

* The Nature Conservancy: https://www.nature.org/en-us/

* Sierra Club: https://www.sierraclub.org/

* Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): https://www.epa.gov/

* National Geographic: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/

* National Audubon Society: https://www.audubon.org/

Social Media:

* Follow environmental organizations, activists, and influencers on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

* Join online communities and forums dedicated to environmental issues.

Local Initiatives:

* Community Gardens: Participate in local gardening projects to promote sustainable food production and green spaces.

* Volunteer Organizations: Join local environmental groups to contribute to conservation efforts in your area.

* Government Initiatives: Get involved in local government initiatives related to environmental protection and sustainability.

Educational Resources:

* Online Courses: Explore online courses and certifications in environmental studies, sustainability, and conservation.

* Documentaries: Watch documentaries that raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire action.

* Podcasts: Listen to podcasts featuring interviews with environmental experts and activists.By exploring these resources, you can deepen your understanding of environmental challenges and find ways to contribute to a more sustainable future.

* https://gbes.com/green-building-matters-podcast/first-leed-ap-and-later-leed-fellow-real-estate-broker-sally-wilson/

[a-modernmajorgeneral]

Viewers turning in for the track and field events at the Summer Games in Paris next week might just do a double-take: Instead of the usual rust-colored reddish hue, the track is purple.

The new, eye-catching color will serve as the backdrop for runners competing at the Stade de France, the country’s largest stadium, located in the northern Paris suburb of Saint-Denis. The track is made by Mondo, a company based in Alba, Italy, that has made every track used at the Olympics since 1976.

The color was mainly an aesthetic choice, as purple, blue and green make up the palette for the competition venues at this year’s games. The design actually incorporates three separate colors: lavender for the track itself, darker purple for the service areas and gray for the exterior curves at each end.

Even the glue used to adhere the track to its asphalt base—2,800 pots in total—is purple, just in case any becomes visible.

“The big part of the job was to come up with a track that was different from what we had seen … to go a little bit outside the box,” says Alain Blondel, an Olympic decathlete who now serves as the sports manager for the Paris games, to Olympics.com’s Nicolas Kohlhuber.

This is the first time an Olympic track has been purple. But it’s not uncommon for athletics venues around the world to play around with color. For example, since 1986, Boise State University has famously eschewed the traditional green-colored turf for its football field, opting instead for a shocking shade of bright blue.

Color aside, the Paris track is unique for several other reasons. For one, it incorporates the shells of bivalve mollusks, like mussels and clams. Ahead of the games, track-maker Mondo began partnering with a mussel farming and fishing company called Nieddittas to give used shells a second life.

Staff at Nieddittas harvest, clean and prepare the shells—which are made primarily of calcium carbonate—so they can be ground into a powder that can be incorporated into the track material. The shells would have otherwise been headed to a landfill, so the process transforms waste into something useful. It also reduces the need for mining, which is how manufacturers usually obtain calcium carbonate.

All told, 50 percent of the Paris track comes from recycled materials, reports BBC’s Padraig Belton.

This innovative use of recycled natural materials aligns with the goals of the International Olympic Committee, which vowed to make the Summer Games in Paris the most sustainable Olympics yet. Other sustainability efforts include bike parking at many venues, more plant-based food options for spectators, 100 percent locally sourced renewable energy, a geothermal cooling system at the Olympic Village and aquatic center seats made from recycled plastic bottle caps, among many others.

The track’s design and materials may also help athletes perform their best. The Paris track has the same base as the one used at the 2020 Summer Games in Tokyo, with some minor modifications, per reporting by Reuters’ Manuel Ausloos and Vincent Daheron. At those games, athletes set three world records and 12 Olympic records—and officials expect even more records to fall next week in Paris.

“The first indications are that it will be a very, very good track,” Blondel told the Associated Press’ (AP) Jerome Pugmire in April. “If we see athletes with personal bests on the scoreboard, it means we did a good job.”

For this iteration of the track, Mondo researchers improved upon the new polymeric material first introduced in Tokyo. They also used computer algorithms to further refine the optimal shape and size of the air bubbles within the lower layer of the track, which help absorb and then rebound the energy from the runner’s foot striking the ground.

The vulcanized rubber provides good grip and resistance for Paralympic athletes who use wheelchairs and prosthetics. The track has also been specially designed to complement the latest generation of running shoes.

“For the track, we only see the aesthetics, but there is great work that goes into the underlayer,” says Alessandro Piceli, a research and development manager at Mondo, to the Guardian’s Sean Ingle.

Mondo leaders say the Paris track will be 2 percent faster than the one used in Tokyo, per the BBC. But, in 2020, runners also got a boost from hot temperatures and new shoe spike technology, per the Guardian. It remains to be seen how the track will affect athletes’ times, but its creators are confident we will see records fall in Paris.

“The athletes will find this track to be more reactive and better suited for their competition,” said Maurizio Stroppiana, vice president of Mondo’s sport division, to the AP’s Andrew Dampf and Luca Bruno in March.

[beardedmrbean]

ESSEN, Germany (AP) — For most of this century, Germany racked up one economic success after another, dominating global markets for high-end products like luxury cars and industrial machinery, selling so much to the rest of the world that half the economy ran on exports.

Jobs were plentiful, the government's financial coffers grew as other European countries drowned in debt, and books were written about what other countries could learn from Germany.

No longer. Now, Germany is the world’s worst-performing major developed economy, with both the International Monetary Fund and European Union expecting it to shrink this year.

It follows Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the loss of Moscow's cheap natural gas — an unprecedented shock to Germany’s energy-intensive industries, long the manufacturing powerhouse of Europe.

The sudden underperformance by Europe's largest economy has set off a wave of criticism, handwringing and debate about the way forward.

Germany risks “deindustrialization” as high energy costs and government inaction on other chronic problems threaten to send new factories and high-paying jobs elsewhere, said Christian Kullmann, CEO of major German chemical company Evonik Industries AG.

From his 21st-floor office in the west German town of Essen, Kullmann points out the symbols of earlier success across the historic Ruhr Valley industrial region: smokestacks from metal plants, giant heaps of waste from now-shuttered coal mines, a massive BP oil refinery and Evonik's sprawling chemical production facility.

These days, the former mining region, where coal dust once blackened hanging laundry, is a symbol of the energy transition, dotted with wind turbines and green space.

The loss of cheap Russian natural gas needed to power factories “painfully damaged the business model of the German economy,” Kullmann told The Associated Press. “We’re in a situation where we’re being strongly affected — damaged — by external factors.”

After Russia cut off most of its gas to the European Union, spurring an energy crisis in the 27-nation bloc that had sourced 40% of the fuel from Moscow, the German government asked Evonik to keep its 1960s coal-fired power plant running a few months longer.

The company is shifting away from the plant — whose 40-story smokestack fuels production of plastics and other goods — to two gas-fired generators that can later run on hydrogen amid plans to become carbon neutral by 2030.

One hotly debated solution: a government-funded cap on industrial electricity prices to get the economy through the renewable energy transition.

The proposal from Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck of the Greens Party has faced resistance from Chancellor Olaf Scholz, a Social Democrat, and pro-business coalition partner the Free Democrats. Environmentalists say it would only prolong reliance on fossil fuels.

Kullmann is for it: “It was mistaken political decisions that primarily developed and influenced these high energy costs. And it can’t now be that German industry, German workers should be stuck with the bill.”

The price of gas is roughly double what it was in 2021, hurting companies that need it to keep glass or metal red-hot and molten 24 hours a day to make glass, paper and metal coatings used in buildings and cars.

A second blow came as key trade partner China experiences a slowdown after several decades of strong economic growth.

These outside shocks have exposed cracks in Germany's foundation that were ignored during years of success, including lagging use of digital technology in government and business and a lengthy process to get badly needed renewable energy projects approved.

Other dawning realizations: The money that the government readily had on hand came in part because of delays in investing in roads, the rail network and high-speed internet in rural areas. A 2011 decision to shut down Germany's remaining nuclear power plants has been questioned amid worries about electricity prices and shortages. Companies face a severe shortage of skilled labor, with job openings hitting a record of just under 2 million.

And relying on Russia to reliably supply gas through the Nord Stream pipelines under the Baltic Sea — built under former Chancellor Angela Merkel and since shut off and damaged amid the war — was belatedly conceded by the government to have been a mistake.

Now, clean energy projects are slowed by extensive bureaucracy and not-in-my-backyard resistance. Spacing limits from homes keep annual construction of wind turbines in single digits in the southern Bavarian region.

A 10 billion-euro ($10.68 billion) electrical line bringing wind power from the breezier north to industry in the south has faced costly delays from political resistance to unsightly above-ground towers. Burying the line means completion in 2028 instead of 2022.

Massive clean energy subsidies that the Biden administration is offering to companies investing in the U.S. have evoked envy and alarm that Germany is being left behind.

“We’re seeing a worldwide competition by national governments for the most attractive future technologies — attractive meaning the most profitable, the ones that strengthen growth,” Kullmann said.

He cited Evonik’s decision to build a $220 million production facility for lipids — key ingredients in COVID-19 vaccines — in Lafayette, Indiana. Rapid approvals and up to $150 million in U.S. subsidies made a difference after German officials evinced little interest, he said.

“I'd like to see a little more of that pragmatism ... in Brussels and Berlin,” Kullmann said.

In the meantime, energy-intensive companies are looking to cope with the price shock.

Drewsen Spezialpapiere, which makes passport and stamp paper as well as paper straws that don't de-fizz soft drinks, bought three wind turbines near its mill in northern Germany to cover about a quarter of its external electricity demand as it moves away from natural gas.

Specialty glass company Schott AG, which makes products ranging from stovetops to vaccine bottles to the 39-meter (128-foot) mirror for the Extremely Large Telescope astronomical observatory in Chile, has experimented with substituting emissions-free hydrogen for gas at the plant where it produces glass in tanks as hot as 1,700 degrees Celsius.

It worked — but only on a small scale, with hydrogen supplied by truck. Mass quantities of hydrogen produced with renewable electricity and delivered by pipeline would be needed and don't exist yet.

Scholz has called for the energy transition to take on the “Germany tempo,” the same urgency used to set up four floating natural gas terminals in months to replace lost Russian gas. The liquefied natural gas that comes to the terminals by ship from the U.S., Qatar and elsewhere is much more expensive than Russian pipeline supplies, but the effort showed what Germany can do when it has to.

However, squabbling among the coalition government over the energy price cap and a law barring new gas furnaces has exasperated business leaders.

Evonik's Kullmann dismissed a recent package of government proposals, including tax breaks for investment and a law aimed at reducing bureaucracy, as “a Band-Aid.”

Germany grew complacent during a “golden decade” of economic growth in 2010-2020 based on reforms under Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder in 2003-2005 that lowered labor costs and increased competitiveness, says Holger Schmieding, chief economist at Berenberg bank.

“The perception of Germany's underlying strength may also have contributed to the misguided decisions to exit nuclear energy, ban fracking for natural gas and bet on ample natural gas supplies from Russia,” he said. “Germany is paying the price for its energy policies.”

Schmieding, who once dubbed Germany “the sick man of Europe” in an influential 1998 analysis, thinks that label would be overdone today, considering its low unemployment and strong government finances. That gives Germany room to act — but also lowers the pressure to make changes.

The most important immediate step, Schmieding said, would be to end uncertainty over energy prices, through a price cap to help not just large companies, but smaller ones as well.

Whatever policies are chosen, “it would already be a great help if the government could agree on them fast so that companies know what they are up to and can plan accordingly instead of delaying investment decisions," he said.

[newstfionline]

Monday, November 25, 2024

Large Swath of US Faces Power Supply Risk During Extreme Cold (Bloomberg) The entire US Northeast faces an elevated threat of electricity shortages this winter in case of extreme cold weather, in part due to limited capacity on natural gas pipelines that supply power plants. All US regions have sufficient electricity supplies to meet their needs in normal weather conditions, the North American Electric Reliability Corp. said Thursday in its annual winter reliability assessment. But harsh weather could threaten energy reserves across a broad swath of the country, from the Northeast to the Midwest and Texas. Prolonged cold can cause power plants to break down even as electricity demand soars, while short days with low winds can slash renewable generation. The Northeast, according to NERC, faces the added problem of limited natural gas pipeline capacity hampering the ability of power plants to burn more of the fuel when needed. In last year’s winter assessment, only New England was flagged for pipeline constraints—now, the problem extends as far west as Chicago and as far south as North Carolina.

The rising price of paying the national debt is a risk for Trump’s promises on growth and inflation (AP) Donald Trump has big plans for the economy—and a big debt problem that will be a hurdle to delivering on them. Trump has bold ideas on tax cuts, tariffs and other programs, but high interest rates and the price of repaying the federal government’s existing debt could limit what he’s able to do. Not only is the federal debt at roughly $36 trillion, but the spike in inflation after the coronavirus pandemic has pushed up the government’s borrowing costs such that debt service next year will easily exceed spending on national security. The higher cost of servicing the debt gives Trump less room to maneuver with the federal budget as he seeks income tax cuts. It’s also a political challenge because higher interest rates have made it costlier for many Americans to buy a home or new automobile. And the issue of high costs helped Trump reclaim the presidency in November’s election.

Can RFK Jr make America's diet healthy again? (BBC) Robert F Kennedy Jr has set his sights on changing how Americans eat and drink. From the dyes in Fruit Loops cereal to seed oils in chicken nuggets, Kennedy—who is President-elect Trump's choice to lead the Department of Health and Human Services—has long spoken out against ingredients that he says hurt Americans' health. “We are betraying our children by letting [food] industries poison them,” Kennedy said at a rally in November, after he had ended his independent presidential bid and backed Donald Trump. But if Kennedy hopes to target junk food, he will first have to shake up the country's food regulations—and run up against Big Food. “What he's suggesting is taking on the food industry,” said former New York University nutrition professor Marion Nestle. “Will Trump back him up on that? I’ll believe it when I see it.”

Afraid of losing the US-Canada trade pact, Mexico alters its laws and removes Chinese parts (AP) Mexico has been taking a bashing lately for allegedly serving as a conduit for Chinese parts and products into North America, and officials here are afraid a re-elected Donald Trump or politically struggling Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau could try to leave their country out of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement. Mexico’s ruling Morena party is so afraid of losing the trade deal that President Claudia Sheinbaum said Friday the government has gone on a campaign to get companies to replace Chinese parts with locally made ones. While Sheinbaum claimed Mexico had been working on that effort since t he 2021 global supply chain crisis—when factories around the world were stalled by a lack of parts and particularly computer chips from Asia—it appears to be an uphill battle. Even the United States has faced big challenges in moving chip production back home despite billions in subsidies and incentives.

Haiti wonders what’s next as gang violence surges and UN peacekeeping mission flops (AP) When Kenyan police arrived in Haiti as part of a U.N.-backed mission earlier this year to tackle gang violence, hopes were high. Coordinated gang attacks on prisons, police stations and the main international airport had crippled the country’s capital and forced the prime minister to resign, plunging Haiti into an unprecedented crisis. But the crisis has only deepened since the international policing contingent arrived. The main international airport closed for the second time this year after gangs opened fire on commercial flights in mid-November, striking a flight attendant. Gunmen also are attacking once-peaceful communities to try and seize control of the entire capital, taking advantage of political infighting that led to the abrupt dismissal of the prime minister earlier this month. Now, a new prime minister is tasked with turning around a nation that sees no escape from its troubles as Haitians wonder: How did the country reach this point?

US bribery and fraud charges are a big test yet for India’s Adani, one of Asia’s richest men (AP) Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, one of Asia’s richest men, may be facing his biggest challenge yet with an indictment by U.S. prosecutors for alleged fraud and bribery. But it’s unclear just how the case will affect his businesses and own future—as well as the Indian economy and government. Adani, a major power player in India perceived as close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was charged Wednesday with securities fraud and conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud at a court in Brooklyn, New York. The test for the tycoon and his multibillion dollar empire spawning everything from energy and ports to media and agriculture, comes just after the 62-year-old founder and his sprawling business empire had bounced back after losing more than $60 billion in market value in early 2023 following allegations of stock price manipulation and fraud by the short-selling firm Hindenburg Research. It also raises questions about corporate governance and crony capitalism in India’s economy, which Modi has vowed to make the world’s third largest, intensifying scrutiny on the outsized influence of large, family-run conglomerates. Asia’s richest man is another Indian billionaire, Mukesh Ambani of Reliance Industries.

Russia says US using Taiwan to stir crisis in Asia (Reuters) The United States is using Taiwan to provoke a serious crisis in Asia, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko told TASS news agency in remarks published on Sunday, reiterating Moscow's backing of China's stance on Taiwan. "We see that Washington, in violation of the 'one China' principle that it recognises, is strengthening military-political contacts with Taipei under the slogan of maintaining the 'status quo', and increasing arms supplies," Rudenko told the state news agency. "The goal of such obvious U.S. interference in the region's affairs is to provoke the PRC (People's Republic of China) and generate a crisis in Asia to suit its own selfish interests." China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, a claim that Taiwan's government rejects.

Israeli Strike in the Heart of Beirut Kills at Least 20 (NYT) An Israeli airstrike on a residential building in central Beirut killed at least 20 people on Saturday, the Lebanese Health Ministry said, part of an intensifying Israeli military campaign that appears aimed at pressuring Hezbollah into a cease-fire deal. The strike was an attempt to assassinate a top Hezbollah military commander, Mohammad Haidar, according to three Israeli defense officials who requested anonymity to discuss sensitive military operations. Hezbollah officials on Saturday afternoon said that none of the group’s leaders were at the site of the airstrike, and later in the day, one of the Israeli officials said Mr. Haidar was not killed. The death toll in the latest strike was expected to rise, and at least 66 people were injured, according to the Health Ministry. The strike came just after 4 a.m., jolting Beirut residents awake with thundering explosions that left much of the city enveloped in acrid smoke. It was the third strike this week in central Beirut, an area that had largely been spared since the war between Hezbollah and Israel escalated.

War fatigue deepens in Israel as deaths mount and fighting expands (Washington Post) Ari Krauss, a reservist in the Israeli military’s elite Golani Brigade, said he spent his days inside Gaza exploding underground tunnels. At night, he recalled, he would join the other fathers in uniform on a sandy hill, trying to get enough cellphone bars to FaceTime his infant daughter. His day job seemed like a distant memory. Early in the war, the brigade sent a letter to his company apologizing for drafting him but committing to no date for his full return. Being a soldier, the letter made clear, was now his main calling. Krauss’s situation, or some version of it, is shared by some 80,000 Israeli reservists who are planning to leave, or have already left, families, jobs and studies to serve on the front lines of Israel’s grinding wars in Gaza and Lebanon. Increasingly, some are choosing not to report for duty, putting further strain on an overextended military amid an ever-widening regional war. Nadav Shoshani, a spokesman for the Israel Defense Forces, said in a briefing last week that the army’s enlistment numbers are down by about 15 percent since the period after the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks. More than 800 soldiers have been killed since October 2023. “Wherever you look—the economic crisis, the toll on the reservists and their families, and of course the dead and the wounded—Israeli society is definitely at the edge of its capacity,” said Gayil Talshir, a political analyst at Hebrew University.

More aid workers have been killed in 2024 than in any other year, UN says (AP) More aid workers, health care staffers, delivery personnel and other humanitarians have been killed in 2024 than in any other single year, the United Nations reported Friday. Bloodshed in the Middle East has been the single-biggest cause of the 281 deaths among humanitarians globally this year, according to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Humanitarians “are working courageously and selflessly in places like Gaza, Sudan, Lebanon, Ukraine and so on. They show the best humanity has to offer, and they are getting killed in return—in record numbers,” OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke said. A total of 268 of the humanitarians killed—including from non-U.N. organizations like the Red Cross and Red Crescent—were national staff, while 13 were international staff.

Giving thanks (AP) It’s the season of giving thanks, and being in the mood for gratitude shapes who we are as a species and how we connect with the people around us. “This is something that is part of our human DNA,” said Sarah Schnitker, a psychologist at Baylor University. “It is a glue, in a sense, that holds us together.” Giving thanks might be good for you, too: A 2016 study found that people who wrote letters of gratitude reported better mental health and saw changes in their brain activity—even months down the line. But researcher Jenae Nelson pointed out that recognizing the giver, not just the gift, is key. So, if Thanksgiving has you in a mood for gratitude, she suggested focusing on thanking the people in your life, rather than just making “gratitude lists” of the stuff you have. “It’s not just about stuff and materialism,” Nelson said. “It’s about relationships, and the things that people do for you, and then the things that you can in turn do back for other people.”

[singhalindustriespvtltd1]

Garbage Bags: Sustainable Bags for Responsible Waste Management

Introduction:

Garbage bags have become an indispensable part of our daily lives, aiding in the efficient disposal of waste. However, with environmental concerns on the rise, there's a growing emphasis on finding sustainable alternatives to traditional plastic garbage bags. In this article, we'll delve into the importance of sustainable garbage bags, their benefits, and explore options available in the market today.

The Need for Sustainable Solutions:

In recent years, there has been a surge in awareness regarding the environmental impact of single-use plastics, including traditional garbage bags. The indiscriminate use and disposal of these bags have contributed significantly to pollution, posing a threat to wildlife and ecosystems. Consequently, there's a pressing need to adopt more sustainable practices, starting from the very products we use in our daily lives.

Finding Value in Sustainability

One of the common misconceptions about sustainable products is that they are invariably more expensive. However, when it comes to the price segment, the Garbage bag price differential between traditional plastic bags and their sustainable counterparts is becoming narrower. While initial costs may be slightly higher for eco-friendly options, their long-term benefits far outweigh the price disparity. Moreover, as demand for sustainable products increases, manufacturers are innovating to make them more cost-effective, making them accessible to a wider audience.

The Rise of Sustainable Options in India:

India, with its burgeoning population and rapidly expanding urban centers, faces significant waste management challenges. Garbage bags India play a crucial role in this scenario, offering a convenient way to collect and dispose of waste. Recognizing the need for sustainable solutions, many Indian manufacturers have begun producing eco-friendly garbage bags made from biodegradable materials such as cornstarch or plant-based polymers. These bags not only help reduce the burden on landfills but also contribute to India's efforts towards a cleaner, greener future.

Pioneering Sustainability

Garbage Bags Manufacturer plays a pivotal role in driving the adoption of sustainable practices. By investing in research and development, they can create innovative solutions that meet both consumer needs and environmental standards. Many garbage bag manufacturers have recognized this opportunity and are actively transitioning towards more sustainable production methods. By utilizing recycled materials, optimizing manufacturing processes, and investing in renewable energy sources, these manufacturers are setting new benchmarks for sustainability in the industry.

The Benefits of Sustainable Garbage Bags:

Apart from their environmental advantages, sustainable garbage bags offer a host of benefits for users. Unlike traditional plastic bags, which can take centuries to decompose, eco-friendly alternatives break down much faster, reducing their impact on the environment. Additionally, many sustainable garbage bags are compostable, providing a convenient way to dispose of organic waste without contaminating landfills. Moreover, these bags are often more durable and tear-resistant than their plastic counterparts, offering enhanced reliability for waste management tasks.

Making Informed Choices:

When it comes to selecting garbage bags, consumers have a significant role to play in promoting sustainability. By opting for eco-friendly alternatives and supporting responsible manufacturers, individuals can contribute towards reducing plastic pollution and conserving natural resources. While the initial transition may require some adjustment, the long-term benefits for the planet far outweigh any inconvenience. With a growing array of sustainable options available in the market, making informed choices has never been easier.

Conclusion:

Garbage bags are not just containers for waste; they are symbols of our approach to environmental stewardship. As we navigate towards a more sustainable future, it's essential to rethink our reliance on single-use plastics and embrace eco-friendly alternatives. By prioritizing sustainability in our purchasing decisions and supporting responsible manufacturers, we can collectively drive positive change and pave the way for a cleaner, healthier planet. Let's start by recognizing the value of sustainable garbage bags and their role in responsible waste management.

FAQs

Are scented garbage bags worth it?Scented garbage bags can help mask unpleasant odors, making them ideal for kitchen or bathroom waste. However, it's essential to consider whether the added fragrance is necessary, as some people may be sensitive to certain scents. Additionally, be mindful of the environmental impact of scented bags and opt for eco-friendly options where possible.

Can garbage bags be recycled?

While traditional plastic garbage bags pose challenges for recycling due to their composition, some manufacturers offer recyclable options made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE). These bags can be recycled through designated recycling programs, contributing to a more sustainable waste management system.

[naidu112]

Transforming Andhra Pradesh N. Chandrababu Naidu Zero Waste Panchayat Project

Former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's commitment to transforming Andhra Pradesh into a cleaner and more sustainable state is exemplified by the innovative Zero Waste Panchayat Project. This ambitious initiative, implemented under the leadership of Naidu and top

, focuses on effective waste management, employment generation, and public awareness to create a greener future for the state.

A cornerstone of the Zero Waste Panchayat Project is the establishment of Solid Wealth Processing Centers (SWPCs) in all Gram Panchayats. These centers, funded through a convergence of resources from MGNREGS, SBM, and Gram Panchayat Funds, employ a systematic and scientific approach to waste treatment. SWPCs play a crucial role in converting various types of waste into valuable resources such as compost and recycled materials. Notably, the project has empowered local women, trained as Green Ambassadors, to manage these centers, thereby creating employment opportunities at the grassroots level.

The TDP-led government, under the strategic leadership of N. Chandrababu Naidu, has forged collaborations with entities like AP MARKFED to market the compost produced in SWPCs to farmers. These partnerships ensure the sustainable utilization of resources generated from waste management, contributing to the circular economy. The national recognition bestowed upon Andhra Pradesh by the Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India, with the first prize for Best Performance in Solid Waste Management in Urban Local Bodies, underscores the effectiveness and success of the project.

The Zero Waste Panchayat Project places significant emphasis on creating awareness among the public about waste segregation and management.

These initiatives aim to educate individuals about the importance of waste segregation and the benefits of composting, fostering sustainable waste management practices in every household and community.

One of the remarkable achievements of N. Chandrababu Naidu's leadership is the substantial reduction in landfill dependence. The efficient waste treatment processes at SWPCs minimize the burden on landfills, preventing environmental degradation and health hazards associated with improper waste disposal. Additionally, the government's proactive steps towards developing a waste-to-energy plant exemplify a commitment to renewable energy generation and further contribute to the state's goal of becoming a zero-waste entity.

Under the visionary leadership of N. Chandrababu Naidu and top TDP leaders, the Zero Waste Panchayat Project has transformed waste management practices in Andhra Pradesh. By implementing SWPCs, generating employment opportunities, promoting public awareness, and reducing landfill dependence, the project signifies the state's dedication to holistic development and a greener future. For more detailed information on these initiatives and other TDP contributions, get latest news and interested readers can explore the official TDP website.

[anjaliseo123]

N. Chandrababu Naidu's Efforts in Ensuring Universal Access to Electricity in Rural Areas of Andhra Pradesh

Access to electricity is a vital aspect of development and progress, especially in rural areas. Recognizing this, N. Chandrababu Naidu, the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, took significant initiatives to promote rural electrification and ensure universal access to electricity in the state. Through innovative strategies, sustainable policies, and dedicated efforts, the TDP party administration made commendable progress in electrifying remote villages, uplifting lives, and fostering socio-economic growth in rural Andhra Pradesh.

Under N. Chandrababu Naidu's leadership, the Andhra Pradesh government prioritized the expansion of the rural electrification infrastructure. The administration aimed to provide electricity to every household in the state, enabling them to access better education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The government undertook comprehensive surveys to identify unelectrified villages and implemented a robust action plan to connect them to the power grid. Look into the TDP website for more information on the Contributions and achievements of TDP.

Recognizing the significance of sustainable and clean energy, N. Chandrababu Naidu's administration emphasized the integration of renewable energy sources in rural electrification projects. The government actively promoted the installation of solar power plants, particularly in remote areas with limited connectivity to the grid. These initiatives not only ensured access to electricity but also reduced the carbon footprint and promoted environmental conservation.

In addition to infrastructure development, N. Chandrababu Naidu's government focused on empowering rural communities by providing training and support for sustainable energy practices. They established training centres to educate villagers about the benefits of electricity, energy conservation, and the utilization of renewable resources. Such initiatives aimed to enhance the skills of the rural population, enabling them to become self-reliant and participate in the socio-economic progress of the state.

To make electricity accessible to all, N. Chandrababu Naidu's administration implemented innovative financial inclusion strategies. The government collaborated with financial institutions to provide loans and subsidies to economically marginalized communities for setting up renewable energy infrastructure. By making electricity affordable and accessible, these measures contributed significantly to bridging the rural-urban divide and promoting inclusive development.

To ensure the effectiveness of rural electrification efforts, TDP party-led government established a robust monitoring and evaluation system. Regular inspections were conducted to assess the progress of electrification projects, identify bottlenecks, and address any operational challenges promptly. This systematic approach enhanced transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the implementation of electrification programs. Find out more about TDP projects and their political policies for the welfare of AP people on the TDP website.

N. Chandrababu Naidu's initiatives in rural electrification yielded significant results. As a result of the government's efforts, a substantial number of unelectrified villages in Andhra Pradesh were connected to the power grid. This electrification drive facilitated access to electricity for millions of rural households, transforming their lives and providing them with opportunities for socio-economic development. The availability of electricity enabled the establishment of small-scale industries, improved agricultural practices, better healthcare services, and enhanced educational facilities in rural areas. Look over the TDP website for recent news and news online in Telugu.

N. Chandrababu Naidu's relentless efforts to promote rural electrification and ensure universal access to electricity in Andhra Pradesh have played a pivotal role in empowering rural communities and fostering inclusive development. Through a combination of infrastructure development, renewable energy promotion, financial inclusion, and capacity building, the TDP administration successfully improved the quality of life for millions of rural residents. The impact of these initiatives will continue to be felt for generations to come, as electricity acts as a catalyst for progress and prosperity.

[captainmdhridoyhossain-blog]

[ad_1] A member of the civil protection takes a taking pictures place as a car approaches the checkpoint in Gorenka, out of doors the capital Kyiv, Ukraine, on Wednesday. Russia renewed its attack on Ukraine's second-largest town in a pounding that lit up the skyline with balls of fireside over populated spaces. Vadim Ghirda/AP conceal caption toggle caption Vadim Ghirda/AP A member of the civil protection takes a taking pictures place as a car approaches the checkpoint in Gorenka, out of doors the capital Kyiv, Ukraine, on Wednesday. Russia renewed its attack on Ukraine's second-largest town in a pounding that lit up the skyline with balls of fireside over populated spaces. Vadim Ghirda/AP Ukraine's overseas minister said on Twitter early Friday that Europe's biggest nuclear energy plant is underneath fireplace from Russian troops. Safety pictures from the plant's major gate, geolocated by means of NPR, presentations what seem to be Russian troops on the front of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Energy Plant, engaged in lively battle at the web page. Pictures additionally presentations what seems to be a hearth in one of the crucial plant's administrative structures. In a temporary commentary on Thursday, the Global Atomic Power Company stated that it had gained a record from Ukraine's atomic regulatory authority mentioning that Russian armor and infantry had damaged via a barricade in a close-by the town previous within the day. "The fight is occurring within the the town of Enerhodar and at the highway to the ZNPP [Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant] web page," the regulator advised the IAEA, including that the location used to be "essential." President Biden spoke with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in regards to the assault and joined Zelenskyy in urging Russia to stop its army actions within the space and make allowance firefighters and emergency responders to get right of entry to the web page. U.S. Power Secretary Jennifer Granholm said on Twitter that she spoke along with her Ukrainian counterpart and stated the plant's reactors had been being safely close down. She additionally stated "We have now noticed no increased radiation readings close to the ability." On Thursday, Ukraine's atomic power authority reported that Zaporizhzhia used to be running generally and that a Ukrainian safety pressure used to be protecting the web page. The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Energy Plant is the most important nuclear plant in Europe. It's positioned in southeastern Ukraine. It is composed of six Russian-designed VVER pressurized water reactors that date from the Eighties and Nineteen Nineties. Ukraine is determined by 15 nuclear reactors unfold all over the rustic for round part of its electrical energy. Ukraine used to be the web page of the sector's biggest nuclear crisis, the 1986 explosion of a reactor on the Chernobyl plant. Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine's overseas minister, warned that if one thing identical occurs at Zaporizhzhia, "it's going to be 10 instances greater." [ad_2] #Zaporizhzhia #nuclear #plant #Enerhodar #Ukraine #shelled #Russians #NPR

[nikhilseo]

Isuzu Motors India's Manufacturing Plant in AP: TDP's Contributions to Industrial Development

The establishment of Isuzu Motors India's manufacturing plant in Andhra Pradesh is indeed a success story of the industrial development policy implemented by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government, led by N Chandrababu Naidu. The TDP government's contributions, achievements, policies, and agenda have played a crucial role in attracting investments and fostering industrial growth in the state. Under the leadership of N Chandrababu Naidu, the TDP government in Andhra Pradesh has been focused on promoting industrial development as a key driver of economic growth and job creation. The TDP Policies and initiatives have aimed at creating a conducive business environment, providing necessary infrastructure, simplifying approval processes, and ensuring a favourable regulatory framework to attract investments. The establishment of Isuzu Motors India's manufacturing plant in Andhra Pradesh is a testament to the success of these efforts.

Isuzu Motors India Limited, a subsidiary of Isuzu Motors Limited, Japan, set up its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, in 2016 with an investment of over Rs. 3,000 crores. This Industrial setup has a production capacity of 50,000 units per year. It manufactures a wide range of Isuzu vehicles, including pickup trucks and SUVs, which are sold in the Indian market and exported to other countries. This has generated significant employment opportunities and contributed to the overall socio-economic growth of the region. The TDP government's industrial development policy has been a crucial factor in attracting Isuzu Motors India to set up its manufacturing plant in Andhra Pradesh. The District TDP leader's efforts under the leadership of N Chandrababu Naidu to provide a favourable business environment, along with necessary infrastructure and simplified approval processes, have encouraged investments in the state's industrial sector. This has not only created job opportunities but also boosted the local secondary industry and contributed to the economic growth of the state.

The TDP Contributions to industrial development in Andhra Pradesh are not limited to Isuzu Motors India's manufacturing plant. During its tenure, the government successfully attracted investments from various sectors, including automobile, electronics, textiles, food processing, and renewable energy, leading to the establishment of several other major manufacturing plants in the state. These investments have created employment opportunities, stimulated economic growth, and improved the living standards of the people.

The TDP's industrial development policy is an integral part of its broader TDP Agenda to promote economic growth and development in Andhra Pradesh. The party has been proactive in advocating for TDP Schemes and initiatives that can attract investments and create jobs in the state. The TDP government's efforts to transform Andhra Pradesh into a manufacturing hub and foster inclusive development have been commendable and have yielded positive results in attracting major industries like Isuzu Motors India.

In TDP recent news, the TDP has continued to emphasise the importance of industrial development in Andhra Pradesh. The party has highlighted the need for policies that promote investments, simplify regulatory processes, and create a favourable business environment to attract more industries to the state. The TDP Manifesto includes promoting job creation, economic growth, and inclusive development through its industrial development policy. These TDP developments will be creating a lot of Job opportunities for the unemployed youth of AP.

To sum up, the establishment of Isuzu Motors India's manufacturing plant in Andhra Pradesh is a success story of the TDP's industrial development policy. The TDP government's contributions and TDP Achievements have played a significant role in attracting investments and fostering industrial growth in the state. Shri. N Chandrababu Naidu’s focus on creating a conducive business environment, providing necessary infrastructure, and simplifying approval processes have encouraged investments and create job opportunities, contributing to the overall development of Andhra Pradesh as a manufacturing hub.

[xtruss]

The Emsland nuclear power plant in Lower Saxony, Lingen is one of the final three nuclear power plants in Gernany which will close on April 15, 2023. Sina Schuldt/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

‘A New Era’: Germany Quits Nuclear Power, Closing Its Final Three Plants

— By Laura Paddison, Nadine Schmidt and Inke Kappeler | Saturday April 15, 2023

Germany’s final three nuclear power plants close their doors on Saturday, marking the end of the country’s nuclear era that has spanned more than six decades.

Nuclear power has long been contentious in Germany.

There are those who want to end reliance on a technology they view as unsustainable, dangerous and a distraction from speeding up renewable energy.

But for others, closing down nuclear plants is short-sighted. They see it as turning off the tap on a reliable source of low-carbon energy at a time when drastic cuts to planet-heating pollution are needed.

Even as these debates rumble on, and despite last-minute calls to keep the plants online amid an energy crisis, the German government has been steadfast.

“The position of the German government is clear: nuclear power is not green. Nor is it sustainable,” Steffi Lemke, Germany’s Federal Minister for the Environment and Consumer Protection and a Green Party member, told CNN.

“We are embarking on a new era of energy production,” she said.

A Plan Decades in the Making

The closure of the three plants – Emsland, Isar 2 and Neckarwestheim – represents the culmination of a plan set in motion more than 20 years ago. But its roots are even older.

In the 1970s, a strong anti-nuclear movement in Germany emerged. Disparate groups came together to protest new power plants, concerned about the risks posed by the technology and, for some, the link to nuclear weapons. The movement gave birth to the Green Party, which is now part of the governing coalition.

Nuclear accidents fueled the opposition: The partial meltdown of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania in 1979 and the 1986 catastrophe at Chernobyl that created a cloud of radioactive waste which reached parts of Germany.

The Isar nuclear power plant, in Essenbach, Germany. Alexandra Beier/Getty Images

In 2000, the German government pledged to phase out nuclear power and start shutting down plants. But when a new government came to power in 2009, it seemed – briefly – as if nuclear would get a reprieve as a bridging technology to help the country move to renewable energy.

Then Fukushima Happened.

In March 2011, an earthquake and tsunami caused three reactors of the Fukushima Daiichi power plant to melt down. For many in Germany, Japan’s worst nuclear disaster was confirmation “that assurances that a nuclear accident of a large scale can’t happen are not credible,” Miranda Schreurs, professor of environment and climate policy at the Technical University of Munich, told CNN.

Three days later then-Chancellor Angela Merkel – a physicist who was previously pro-nuclear – made a speech called it an “inconceivable catastrophe for Japan” and a “turning point” for the world. She announced Germany would accelerate a nuclear phase-out, with older plants shuttered immediately.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, however, provided another plot twist.

Fearful of its energy security without Russian gas, the German government delayed its plan to close the final three plants in December 2022. Some urged a rethink.

But the government declined, agreeing to keep them running only until April 15, 2023.

For those in the anti-nuclear movement, it’s a moment of victory.

“It is a great achievement for millions of people who have been protesting nuclear in Germany and worldwide for decades,” Paul-Marie Manière, a spokesperson for Greenpeace, told CNN.

A Polarizing Energy

For critics of Germany’s policy, however, it’s irrational to turn off a low-carbon source of energy as the impacts of the climate crisis intensify.

“We need to keep existing, safe nuclear reactors operating while simultaneously ramping up renewables as fast as possible,” Leah Stokes, a professor of climate and energy policy at the University of California, Santa Barbara, told CNN.

The big risk, she said, is that fossil fuels fill the energy gap left by nuclear. Reductions in Germany’s nuclear energy since Fukushima have been primarily offset by increases in coal, according to research published last year.

Germany plans to replace the roughly 6% of electricity generated by the three nuclear plants with renewables, but also gas and coal.

More than 30% of Germany’s energy comes from coal, the dirtiest of the fossil fuels – and the government has made controversial decisions to turn to coal to help with energy security.

In January, protestors including Greta Thunberg converged on the west German village of Lützerath in an unsuccessful attempt to stop it being demolished to mine the coal underneath it.

“Building new coal capacity is the opposite of what we need,” said Stokes. Fossil fuels are a climate problem, but they’re also a health risk, she pointed out. Air pollution from fossil fuels is responsible for 8.7 million deaths a year, according to a recent analysis.

Veronika Grimm, one of Germany’s leading economists, told CNN that keeping nuclear power plants running for longer would have allowed Germany more time “to electrify extensively,” especially as renewable energy growth “remains sluggish.”

A new solar energy park near Prenzlau, Germany. The German government is seeking to accelerate the construction of both solar and wind energy parks. Sean Gallup/Getty Images

But supporters of the nuclear shutdown argue it will ultimately hasten the end of fossil fuels.

Germany has pledged to close its last coal-fired power station no later than 2038, with a 2030 deadline in some areas. It’s aiming for 80% of electricity to come from renewables by the end of this decade.

While more coal was added in the months following Fukushima, Schreurs said, nuclear shutdowns have seen a big push on clean energy. “That urgency and demand can be what it takes to push forward on the growth of renewables,” she said.

Representatives for Germany’s renewable energy industry said the shutdown will open the door for more investment into clean energy.

“Germany’s phase-out of nuclear power is a historic event and an overdue step in energy terms,” Simone Peter, president of the German Renewable Energy Federation (BEE), told CNN. “It is high time that we leave the nuclear age behind and consistently organize the renewable age.”

The impacts of nuclear power shouldn’t be overlooked either, Schreurs said, pointing to the carbon pollution created by uranium mining as well as the risk of health complications for miners. Plus, it creates a dependency on Russia, which supplies uranium for nuclear plants, she added.

Nuclear has also shown itself to have vulnerabilities to the climate crisis. France was forced to reduce nuclear power generation last year as the rivers used to cool reactors became too hot during Europe’s blistering heatwave.

A Million-Year Problem

The Gorleben nuclear waste storage facility, an interim storage facility for spent fuel elements and high-level radioactive waste. Sina Schuldt/picture-alliance/dpa/AP

Now Germany must work out what do with the deadly, high-level radioactive waste, which can remain dangerous for hundreds of thousands of years.

Currently, the nuclear waste is kept in interim storage next to the nuclear plants being decommissioned. But the search is on to find a permanent location where the waste can be stored safely for a million years.

The site needs to be deep – hundreds of meters underground. Only certain types of rock will do: Crystalline granite, rock salt or clay rock. It must be geologically stable with no risks of earthquakes or signs of underground rivers.

The process is likely to be fraught, complex and breathtakingly long – potentially lasting more than 100 years.

BGE, the Federal Company for Radioactive Waste Disposal, estimates a final site won’t be chosen until between 2046 and 2064. After that, it will take decades more to build the repository, fill it with the waste and seal it.

What Are Other Countries Doing?

Plenty of other countries are treading paths similar to Germany’s. Denmark passed a resolution in the 1980s not to construct nuclear power plants, Switzerland voted in 2017 to phase out nuclear power, Italy closed its last reactors in 1990 and Austria’s one nuclear plant has never been used.

But, in the context of the war in Ukraine, soaring energy prices and pressure to reduce carbon pollution, others still want nuclear in the mix.

The UK, in the process of building a nuclear power plant, said in its recent climate strategy that energy nuclear power has a “crucial” role in “creating secure, affordable and clean energy.”

France, which gets about 70% of its power from nuclear, is planning six new reactors, and Finland opened a new nuclear plant last year. Even Japan, still dealing with the aftermath of Fukushima, is considering restarting reactors.

The Neckarwestheim nuclear power plant, Germany. Thomas Kienzle/AFP/Getty Images

The US, the world’s biggest nuclear power, is also investing in nuclear energy and, in March, started up a new nuclear reactor, Vogtle 3 in Georgia – the first in years.

But experts suggest this doesn’t mark the start of a nuclear ramp up. Vogtle 3 came online six years late and at a cost of $30 billion, twice the initial budget.

It encapsulates the big problem that afflicts the whole nuclear industry: making the economics add up. New plants are expensive and can take more than a decade to build. “Even the countries that are talking pro-nuclear are having big trouble developing nuclear power,” Schreurs said.

Many nuclear power plants in Europe, the US and elsewhere are aging – plants have an operating life of around 40 to 60 years. As Germany puts an end to its nuclear era, it’s coming up to crunch time for others, Schreurs said.

“There will be a moment of decision as to whether nuclear really has a future”

— CNN’s Chris Stern contributed reporting.

[newswireml]

Renewable energy growth falls short of climate goal#Renewable #energy #growth #falls #short #climate #goal

BERLIN (AP) — Deployment of new wind and solar power plants needs to be drastically ramped up by the end of the decade to meet the world’s climate goals, the International Renewable Energy Agency said Tuesday. In an advance preview of its annual report on the global shift from fossil fuels to clean energy, the agency said renewables accounted for 83% of new power generation last year. Worldwide,…