#US Global Storage as a Service

[rameshjadhav]

Brief Analysis of Storage as a Service (STaaS) Market 2022 Industry Trends and Future Growth Predictions, Forecast to 2028

The global Storage as a Service (STaaS) Market size was valued at USD 43.26 Billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 137.37 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 26.5% from 2022 to 2028.

Storage as a Service (STaaS) referred to as hosted storage is a subscription service model where a company can rent lease or rents its storage infrastructure to another company or individual to store data. As compared to building private storage infrastructure, storage as a service is cost-efficient.  Small and medium businesses, enterprises, home offices, and individuals use the cloud for multimedia storage, data backup and recovery, data repositories, and disaster recovery. The common use cases of storage as a service include shared file systems, raw storage volume, hosting applications, database management systems, disaster recovery solutions, and extract load and transform (ETL) pipelines. Block, file, and object storage are the three main types of data storage used in the industry. The demand for storage as a service is increasing owing to the several organizations around the world that generated a large amount of data. Also, the growing use of mobile devices, tablets, and other devices supports for the growth of the Storage as a Service market

Global Storage as a Service (STaaS) Market Report provides a deep insight into the market 2022, covering all its essential aspects. This spans from a macroeconomic overview of the global market to the minute micro details of the industry performance, recent trends, key market drivers and challenges, Porter’s five forces analysis, SWOT analysis, value chain analysis, etc. The report provides the user with insights into the manufacturing cost, raw material prices, supply chain analysis, etc. The research report contains a comprehensive analysis of the market opportunities, import/export details, key manufacturers, market dynamics, and key regions.

Read More: https://introspectivemarketresearch.com/reports/storage-as-a-service-staas-market/

[reasonsforhope]

Green energy is in its heyday. 

Renewable energy sources now account for 22% of the nation’s electricity, and solar has skyrocketed eight times over in the last decade. This spring in California, wind, water, and solar power energy sources exceeded expectations, accounting for an average of 61.5 percent of the state's electricity demand across 52 days. 

But green energy has a lithium problem. Lithium batteries control more than 90% of the global grid battery storage market. 

That’s not just cell phones, laptops, electric toothbrushes, and tools. Scooters, e-bikes, hybrids, and electric vehicles all rely on rechargeable lithium batteries to get going. 

Fortunately, this past week, Natron Energy launched its first-ever commercial-scale production of sodium-ion batteries in the U.S. 

“Sodium-ion batteries offer a unique alternative to lithium-ion, with higher power, faster recharge, longer lifecycle and a completely safe and stable chemistry,” said Colin Wessells — Natron Founder and Co-CEO — at the kick-off event in Michigan. 

The new sodium-ion batteries charge and discharge at rates 10 times faster than lithium-ion, with an estimated lifespan of 50,000 cycles.

Wessells said that using sodium as a primary mineral alternative eliminates industry-wide issues of worker negligence, geopolitical disruption, and the “questionable environmental impacts” inextricably linked to lithium mining. 

“The electrification of our economy is dependent on the development and production of new, innovative energy storage solutions,” Wessells said. 

Why are sodium batteries a better alternative to lithium?

The birth and death cycle of lithium is shadowed in environmental destruction. The process of extracting lithium pollutes the water, air, and soil, and when it’s eventually discarded, the flammable batteries are prone to bursting into flames and burning out in landfills. 

There’s also a human cost. Lithium-ion materials like cobalt and nickel are not only harder to source and procure, but their supply chains are also overwhelmingly attributed to hazardous working conditions and child labor law violations. 

Sodium, on the other hand, is estimated to be 1,000 times more abundant in the earth’s crust than lithium. 

“Unlike lithium, sodium can be produced from an abundant material: salt,” engineer Casey Crownhart wrote ​​in the MIT Technology Review. “Because the raw ingredients are cheap and widely available, there’s potential for sodium-ion batteries to be significantly less expensive than their lithium-ion counterparts if more companies start making more of them.”

What will these batteries be used for?

Right now, Natron has its focus set on AI models and data storage centers, which consume hefty amounts of energy. In 2023, the MIT Technology Review reported that one AI model can emit more than 626,00 pounds of carbon dioxide equivalent. 

“We expect our battery solutions will be used to power the explosive growth in data centers used for Artificial Intelligence,” said Wendell Brooks, co-CEO of Natron. 

“With the start of commercial-scale production here in Michigan, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for efficient, safe, and reliable battery energy storage.”

The fast-charging energy alternative also has limitless potential on a consumer level, and Natron is eying telecommunications and EV fast-charging once it begins servicing AI data storage centers in June. 

On a larger scale, sodium-ion batteries could radically change the manufacturing and production sectors — from housing energy to lower electricity costs in warehouses, to charging backup stations and powering electric vehicles, trucks, forklifts, and so on. 

“I founded Natron because we saw climate change as the defining problem of our time,” Wessells said. “We believe batteries have a role to play.”

-via GoodGoodGood, May 3, 2024

--

Note: I wanted to make sure this was legit (scientifically and in general), and I'm happy to report that it really is! x, x, x, x

[afeelgoodblog]

The Best News of Last Week - August 21, 2023

🌊 - Discover the Ocean's Hidden Gem Deep down in the Pacific

1. Massachusetts passed a millionaire's tax. Now, the revenue is paying for free public school lunches.

Every kid in Massachusetts will get a free lunch, paid for by proceeds from a new state tax on millionaires.

A new 4% tax on the state's wealthiest residents will account for $1 billion of the state's $56 billion fiscal budget for 2024, according to state documents. A portion of those funds will be used to provide all public-school students with free weekday meals, according to State House News Service.

2. Plant-based filter removes up to 99.9% of microplastics from water

Researchers may have found an effective, green way to remove microplastics from our water using readily available plant materials. Their device was found to capture up to 99.9% of a wide variety of microplastics known to pose a health risk to humans.

3. Scientists Find A Whole New Ecosystem Hiding Beneath Earth's Seafloor

Most recently, aquanauts on board a vessel from the Schmidt Ocean Institute used an underwater robot to turn over slabs of volcanic crust in the deep, dark Pacific. Underneath the seafloor of this well-studied site, the international team of researchers found veins of subsurface fluids swimming with life that has never been seen before.

It's a whole new world we didn't know existed.

4. How solar has exploded in the US in just a year

Solar and storage companies have announced over $100 billion in private sector investments in the US since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) a year ago, according to a new analysis released today by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

Since President Joe Biden signed the IRA in August 2022, 51 solar factories have been announced or expanded in the US.

5. Researchers have identified a new pack of endangered gray wolves in California

A new pack of gray wolves has shown up in California’s Sierra Nevada, several hundred miles away from any other known population of the endangered species, wildlife officials announced Friday.

It’s a discovery to make researchers howl with delight, given that the native species was hunted to extinction in California in the 1920s. Only in the past decade or so have a few gray wolves wandered back into the state from out-of-state packs.

6. Record-Breaking Cleanup: 25,000 Pounds of Trash Removed from Pacific Garbage Patch

Ocean cleanup crews have fished out the most trash ever taken from one of the largest garbage patches in the world.

The Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit environmental engineering organization, saw its largest extraction earlier this month by removing about 25,000 pounds of trash from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, Alex Tobin, head of public relations and media for the organization

7. The Inflation Reduction Act Took U.S. Climate Action Global

The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) aimed to promote clean energy investments in the U.S. and globally. In its first year, the IRA successfully spurred other nations to develop competitive climate plans.

Clean energy projects in 44 U.S. states driven by the IRA have generated over 170,600 jobs and $278 billion in investments, aligning with Paris Agreement goals.

---

That's it for this week :)

This newsletter will always be free. If you liked this post you can support me with a small kofi donation here:

Buy me a coffee ❤️

Also don’t forget to reblog this post with your friends.

[fandomnerd9602]

Y’All Be Sinners

Country!Wanda x Male Reader

Sunday had arrived at the Maximoff Farm. For Wanda it was another great day to spend with her city boy in the comfort of her church. For you, it was a great day to be with your country girl and her family in a place you hoped to someday tie the knot in.

You stood in the mirror and readied your church clothes outfit. Wanda, your loving gal, wrapped her arms around you, hugging you from behind.

“Looking good enough to eat, city boy” she giggles

“I’m more of a desert option,” you lift up one of her hands and kiss it tenderly. Your girl was a blushing mess already.

“Glad we’re all going to church today,” Piet mutters as he walks up with his gal Crystal in his arms. “You buncha sinners need it”

“Oh don’t go all holier than thou, Piet” Wanda warns her brother.

“Yeah we heard you and Crystal last night,” you chuckle, “and you weren’t exactly speaking in tongues.”

Crystal blushes before smacking her man. Crystal was a quiet gal but she had her moments of ferocity. Wanda already loved her like a sister, she was just waiting on Piet to propose.

Church was a small intimate affair in the small rural town. Father Wong was always there at the door to greet the ten to twenty people who came every week.

“Wanda!” He smiled at you and your gal, “miss Kate fell ill this morning, can we get you to lead the hymn today?”

“Aww shucks preacher,” she giggles “you beg your wine storage I can.”

Father Wong lead the opening prayer at the very front of the small church before turning it over to Wanda. She took a deep breath and began singing.

Amazing grace

How sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like me

I once was lost

but now I’m found.

Was blind but now I see

She was a natural up there. The way she carried herself. The way she held the notes. You knew it was only a matter of time before her and her band went global.

It was like even the heavens were proud of her. A beam of light cascaded thru the stain glass window and casted upon her and the stage.

As the song ended, the entire congregation was hooting and hollering at how good your gal was. She gave a little bow and blew you a kiss.

Piet playfully punched your shoulder, “ya sinner”

You sit there in the tiny church garden after the service. Your mind races with different thoughts and emotions and yet you felt peaceful there. It was a safe space.

Your fingers played with a small piece of gold that Pietro gave ya earlier in the week.

Your country gal walked out of the church, the sun hitting her white dress just right. She looked like an angel in your eyes.

“What are ya up to, city boy?”

“Just thinking” you shrug

“About?”

“This little church would be the perfect venue for a couple sinners like us”

“Oh you,” she playfully punches you in the shoulder, “wait a minute. Perfect venue?”

You reveal the little piece of gold you had been holding: a diamond ring. It was Wanda’s grandmother’s ring.

“Make an honest woman outta my sis, alright?” Piet said after handing it to you.

“Only if Crystal makes an honest man out of you, Piet” you told him back. Piet gave you a wink in response.

You finally found the right time and place to propose to your country girl. Her favorite spot outside her favorite church.

“T-that’s my gramma’s ring” she said tears welling in her eyes.

“My country girl, you turned my whole world upside down.” You get on one knee, “I wanna spend my life with you.”

She was already a weeping mess at this point and yet she never looked more beautiful, “I-I wanna spend ma life with you too”

“You are my songbird, my scarlet witch, my everything. Will you marry—“

You couldn’t even finish because she tackled you to the garden floor and began kissing you something fierce.

You were lost in the moment together. She was your whole world, your country gal. And all you wanted to do was be by her side for the rest of her life. She giggles, kissing you and nipping at your bottom lip, her reddish brown hair drapes down in your eyes, obscuring your vision in the best possible way.

“Wanda?” Father Wong interrupted. “T-this is kind of inappropriate for church-“

Wanda flashes him the ring now nestled on her finger, “I’m engaged!!!” She giggles.

“Okay then,” Wong shrugs, “don’t let me bother you” and with that he walks back to the small church.

You and Wanda still look back on that day with a little laugh. You ended up marrying each other in that little church. And Wong was the one to officiate the wedding too.

Not bad for a bunch of sinners.

Tags @lifespectator @olsenmyolsen @supercorpdanbeau @scarletquake-n7 @tokufighter @idkwhatever580

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this Truthout story:

Local officials, academic researchers, and volunteer responders have raised concerns about chemical and biological contamination brought by the floodwaters of Hurricane Helene in the southeastern U.S. last week, which potentially threaten the safety not only of drinking water but also the quality of soil — leading experts to call for tighter regulations on stored pollutants.

The biological and chemical threats posed by floodwaters are typically manifold, often containing, for example, e. coli from overflowing sewage systems.

While it’s not yet clear what bacteria or chemicals Helene’s floodwaters may have contained, the storm passed through hundreds of industrial sites with toxic pollutants, including paper mills, fertilizer factories, oil and gas storage facilities, and even a retired nuclear plant, according to three researchers at Rice University, writing in The Conversation this week.

The researchers called for tighter regulations on the storage and release of chemical pollutants.

“Hazardous releases remain largely invisible due to limited disclosure requirements and scant public information,” they wrote. “Even emergency responders often don’t know exactly which hazardous chemicals they are facing in emergency situations.”

“We believe this limited public information on rising chemical threats from our changing climate should be front-page news every hurricane season,” they added. “Communities should be aware of the risks of hosting vulnerable industrial infrastructure, particularly as rising global temperatures increase the risk of extreme downpours and powerful hurricanes.”

The devastation of infrastructure and the lack of drinking water in cities such as Asheville, North Carolina, has rightly received national media attention following the storm. In North Carolina alone, more than 700,000 households lost power, and 170,000 still didn’t have it as of Thursday.

Yet the National Weather Service warns that while floodwaters can create clear-cut devastation, “what you can’t see can be just as dangerous.” Helene also brought with it public health concerns that are less obvious, including to other, non-public sources of drinking water.

Helene’s floodwaters overran many wells, rendering them unsafe to drink, at least until treatment and testing can be done. North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services advised residents not to use contaminated well water earlier this week.

One problem following Helene is that most studies of flooding’s impact on drinking water have been done in coastal areas, and it’s not clear how they apply to the mountainous areas of North Carolina that took the worst hit from the storm.

[thiziri]

The Princess Royal visits the United Arab Emirates.

The Princess Royal has visited Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, as President of The Mission to Seafarers (MtS).

The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) provides help and support to the 1.89 million men and women who face danger every day to keep the global economy afloat. MtS works in over 200 ports in 50 countries caring for seafarers of all ranks, nationalities and beliefs. 

Through its global network of chaplains, staff and volunteers, MtS offers practical, emotional and spiritual support to seafarers through ship visits, drop-in seafarers' centres and a range of welfare and emergency support services.

On arrival in Dubai, Her Royal Highness visited DP World’s Jebel Ali Port, the busiest port in the Middle East. Here, Her Royal Highness heard about the innovative technology being used at the port which includes electrified and automated high bay storage stacker cranes. 

The Princess Royal also saw a demonstration of container transfer from ship to shore before meeting the port’s Operations team, frontline workers and the MtS welfare team.

Following this, The Princess Royal attended a Women in Shipping and Trading Conference Panel Discussion to hear more about the importance of seafarers’ welfare with an emphasis on women in shipping and trade. 

During the visit, Her Royal Highness also opened the new Donnelly Lines facilities at Al-Minhad Air Base. 

The new HQ, welfare and accommodation facilities are named after Sergeant William ‘Billy’ Donnelly, an RAF navigator who died in UAE on 14th February 1943 after his aircraft suffered an oil leak. The facilities will support British service personnel at the Airbase. 

As President of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), The Princess Royal toured Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, the region’s largest RYA training centre, and met dedicated volunteers who have promoted sailing and other competitive non-motorised water sports to communities in the United Arab Emirates since the Club was established in 1974.

Her Royal Highness ended the day in Dubai with a dinner hosted by representatives from MtS.

© Royal UK

[princessanneftw]

The Princess Royal has visited Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, as President of The Mission to Seafarers (MtS).

The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) provides help and support to the 1.89 million men and women who face danger every day to keep the global economy afloat. MtS works in over 200 ports in 50 countries caring for seafarers of all ranks, nationalities and beliefs.

Through its global network of chaplains, staff and volunteers, MtS offers practical, emotional and spiritual support to seafarers through ship visits, drop-in seafarers' centres and a range of welfare and emergency support services.

On arrival in Dubai, Her Royal Highness visited DP World’s Jebel Ali Port, the busiest port in the Middle East. Here, Her Royal Highness heard about the innovative technology being used at the port which includes electrified and automated high bay storage stacker cranes.

The Princess Royal also saw a demonstration of container transfer from ship to shore before meeting the port’s Operations team, frontline workers and the MtS welfare team.

Following this, The Princess Royal attended a Women in Shipping and Trading Conference Panel Discussion to hear more about the importance of seafarers’ welfare with an emphasis on women in shipping and trade.

During the visit, Her Royal Highness also opened the new Donnelly Lines facilities at Al-Minhad Air Base.

The new HQ, welfare and accommodation facilities are named after Sergeant William ‘Billy’ Donnelly, an RAF navigator who died in UAE on 14th February 1943 after his aircraft suffered an oil leak. The facilities will support British service personnel at the Airbase.

As President of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), The Princess Royal toured Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, the region’s largest RYA training centre, and met dedicated volunteers who have promoted sailing and other competitive non-motorised water sports to communities in the United Arab Emirates since the Club was established in 1974.

Her Royal Highness ended the day in Dubai with a dinner hosted by representatives from MtS.

[usafphantom2]

Marines hit operational status with second carrier-capable F35-C unit

Todd SouthJul 31, 2024 at 04:56 PM

A West Coast Marine F-35C Lightning II squadron has achieved initial operational capability.

The Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 311, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, hit that key milestone Wednesday, 1st Lt. Madison Walls, wing spokeswoman told Marine Corps Times. The status means a unit can employ, maintain and train on the jet.

The Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, unit conducted its first independent live ordnance operations July 25.

“Initial operational capability is a milestone and achievement in readiness,” said Lt. Col. Michael Fisher, commanding officer of VMFA-311 in a statement. “It’s all on the backs of the Marines out there. What they do in their day-to-day actions is what made this possible.”

The squadron, also known as the Tomcats, flew more than 900 sorties, which equals nearly 1,700 flight hours and another 800 simulator hours and 2,400 maintenance actions to reach initial operational capability, according to a service release.

“The Tomcats have a storied history that includes legends such as Ted Williams and John Glenn, and participation in every major conflict since World War II,” Maj. Gen. James Wellons, commanding general of 3rd MAW, said in the release. “Today’s Marines add another chapter to that legacy with the introduction of the F-35C and fifth-generation capabilities to VMFA-311.”

Marine Corps Cpl. Larry Casas, a fixed-wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 311, directs Capt. Joshua G. Falgoust, an F-35C Lightning II pilot. (Lance Cpl. Jennifer Sanchez/Marine Corps)

In 2020, the squadron deactivated its AV-8 Harrier jets and then reactivated in April 2023 with 84 Marines and one F-35, reflecting the Marine Corps’ move to fifth-generation fighter aircraft. The transition has resulted in a gradual reduction in Harriers and F/A-18 Hornets.

The Corps’ two F-35C squadrons, VMFA-311 and VMFA-314, are both stationed at Miramar.

The VMFA-314, or Black Knights, reached initial operational capability in 2020, Marine Corps Times previously reported.

The F-35C is specifically engineered for carrier-based operations, featuring heavier landing gear and enlarged, foldable wings designed to facilitate catapult launches and arrestments on aircraft carriers. The foldable wingtips also facilitate easier storage on the carrier deck.

The “C” variant holds more fuel than other versions of the single-seat jet, with nearly 20,000 pounds of internal fuel capacity for long-range flights.

“The next step for VMFA-311 is full operational capability, attained when VMFA-311 receives its complete inventory of ten F-35C aircraft, projected for fiscal year 2025,” according to the release.

The Marine Corps has used the F-35B for years. The “B” variant, built to use short runways and flat-decked amphibious assault ships, is capable of short take-offs and vertical landings.

Currently, the Corps has eight operational F-35B squadrons and two training squadrons, totaling over 100 F-35B aircraft globally.

Todd South has written about crime, courts, government and the military for multiple publications since 2004 and was named a 2014 Pulitzer finalist for a co-written project on witness intimidation. Todd is a Marine veteran of the Iraq War.

@DefenseNews.com

[mariacallous]

On Monday, Reuters reported my discovery that Russia is building what appears to be the first deployment site for its experimental nuclear-powered cruise missile, the Burevestnik—which the United States calls the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. The facility is almost complete, suggesting that the new missile may enter service with the Russian Strategic Rocket Forces soon.

The site is located at a nuclear warhead storage facility, reportedly called Vologda-20, roughly 400 miles from Russia’s borders with Finland and Estonia, and contains nine fixed launch positions supported by missile-handling facilities and nuclear warhead storage bunkers. With the launch positions, missiles, and warheads all present at the same site, it’s likely that the Burevestnik will be an on-alert missile ready to launch at a moment’s notice.

There is significant hype surrounding the Burevestnik: U.S. officials have decried Russia’s development of “radiation-spewing, nuclear-powered cruise missiles” and called the system a “flying Chernobyl.” Unlike standard cruise missiles, which are powered by jet engines, the Burevestnik uses an unshielded nuclear reactor for propulsion. This gives it the ability to fly almost unlimited distances, at least in theory.

If deployed, the Burevestnik would be the first missile of its kind actually fielded. The United States explored the concept of a nuclear-powered missile in the 1950s and 1960s under the banner of Project Pluto but canceled the project due to concerns about the danger the system would pose to the United States’ own population. Such concerns were validated in 2019 when a Burevestnik exploded during a test and killed several Russian missile scientists.

The Burevestnik’s advanced propulsion system and virtually unlimited range may allow Russia to use the missile in radical new ways. In 2020, the United Kingdom’s Chief of Defense Intelligence General James Hockenhull told reporters that Moscow was testing a nuclear-powered cruise missile system with “global reach [that] would allow attack from unexpected directions” and provide a “near indefinite loiter time,” meaning the missile could fly around a designated target for long periods of time before attacking, potentially even circumnavigating the Earth.

The reference to loitering has raised concerns that Russia might launch Burevestnik missiles in a crisis, which could then cruise near U.S. and NATO targets while waiting for instructions. This would allow Moscow to strike quickly once orders are given, significantly shortening the amount of time NATO would have to react to Russian aggression. Some analysts have even speculated that Russia could fly Burevestniks over European territory as a signal before turning around and flying back, potentially intimidating NATO allies into backing down and ceding to Russian demands.

These assessments of the Burevestnik’s potential capabilities, however, are technically infeasible. Russia is unlikely to use the new missile in this way because two factors limit its capabilities and potential uses: range and visibility.

Despite claims from the Russian Ministry of Defense that the missile’s range is effectively unlimited, there are significant costs to flying one great distances or loitering for long periods of time. Missiles can generally find their location by communicating with satellites, but satellite signals can be easily jammed or spoofed. To ensure a missile can operate without relying on satellites, it is also equipped with inertial navigation, which finds the missile’s position through the process of dead reckoning. Consulting mechanical accelerometers and gyroscopes, the missile can determine its position by closely recording its speed and direction and the length of its flight.

But over time, small errors in the missile’s guidance system compound, similar to how a mechanical watch will eventually stop keeping time. Thus, having a missile fly for long periods in a loitering pattern would generate serious risk of it flying off course and missing its target.

Russia could attempt to guide its missiles remotely, but the limited range of Russian communication systems—coupled with the small problem of the curvature of the Earth—drastically restricts the area in which Russia could actively guide a missile. It is unlikely that Russia could send missiles far from home and still be able to reliably communicate with them. If Russia eventually did install remote guidance, the missiles would still be vulnerable to electronic warfare activities.

This does not mean that the Burevestnik’s extended range is useless, however. Cruise missiles are effectively disposable airplanes; like airplanes, their range is determined by fuel-efficiency factors. The altitude at which the missile flies presents an important trade-off: range versus detection. The higher a traditional jet engine-powered missile flies, the more fuel efficient it becomes; because the air is thinner, there is less drag. But cruise missiles flying at higher altitudes are also easier for radar to detect. Conversely, dropping altitude allows missiles to more easily avoid detection, but the thicker air requires jet engines to burn more fuel, significantly shortening the missiles’ range.

The major advantage of the Burevestnik’s nuclear-powered engine is that it does not need to make trade-offs between fuel efficiency and detectability. For example, whereas the United States’ Tomahawk missile, with a range of 770 to 1,550 miles, cannot reach intercontinental targets, the Burevestnik’s engine could theoretically run for days, allowing the missile to fly from its base in Russia to targets even in the United States, all while flying low to avoid radar. Despite the Burevestnik’s reactor enabling such a plan, guiding the missile accurately to the target would still be an immense challenge.

Although the Burevestnik may be more difficult to detect, it is not invisible. Cruise missiles are stealthier than other missiles because they generate strong heat signatures only at the moment of their launch. After that, the heat signature is smaller—not undetectable, but more difficult to track, especially by satellites in space that must see through an often-cloudy atmosphere. For the Burevestnik, however, this advantage dissipates the longer Russia lets it loiter. Placing the missile on in-air standby for long periods of time would give the NATO land-, sea-, air-, and space-based air-defense assets more time to detect the missile and maneuver into place to intercept it.

Russia could have attempted to mitigate this problem by making the launch system mobile, allowing it to hide where the missile originated, but it has not done so. Instead, Russia is building fixed launch sites, which will be closely watched by NATO reconnaissance capabilities for any sign of launch. This makes Burevestnik flights easier to predict and easier to track.

Because of the problems with communications and accuracy, the Burevestnik likely does not have the capability to truly surprise NATO. A better way of understanding the Burevestnik is as a straightforward way to penetrate U.S. and NATO air defenses, capable of flying more-or-less directly toward its target at extreme low altitudes.

The real problem with Burevestnik is that Russia may be compelled to launch it preemptively in a crisis because its fixed deployment site is vulnerable to attack. Moreover, the missile has a very long travel time to intercontinental targets compared to intercontinental ballistic missiles, requiring many hours rather than minutes. A Russian leader may feel pressure to launch a Burevestnik before the United States has a chance to maneuver its air defense assets into place and before the launch site can be destroyed by NATO missiles—including, for example, the conventional hypersonic missiles the United States will deploy to Germany in 2026.

Although Russian leaders may feel pressured to use the Burevestnik preemptively, there is no reason why Moscow could not be deterred from initiating a nuclear war using the missile. NATO states can try to prevent this by investing in military infrastructure that could credibly survive a Russian nuclear first strike and respond, making their targets less tempting in the first place. This means adding dispersion and redundancy into NATO defenses at sites that would be early targets, such as radar and airfields—especially in the United States, where assets have never been credibly threatened by hard-to-detect Russian systems.

The Burevestnik is not a wonder weapon, and the challenges it poses for NATO security are neither new nor unmanageable. It may seem scary on paper, but the technical infeasibility of its mission limits its threat. Much of the hype around the missile stems from Russian saber-rattling about its capabilities. In this context, perhaps one of the best things NATO can do to stay strong in a crisis is to call out this weapon for what it is—a terror weapon, not a silver bullet.

So far, the only people the Burevestnik has killed are its own designers. Combating Russian propaganda will help keep it that way.

[bensalah96]

Let’s explain some points about wars and their rules.

I’ll try to simplify it for you to understand if you don’t understand.

In need of its name is the rules of war, or international humanitarian law , this is a set of international rules that define what can and cannot be done during conflict or wars.

Which purpose of the law?

It’s to protect civilians and preserve something of humanity in armed conflicts, save lives, and alleviate suffering!

Ok, I also tell you that international courts document and investigate war crimes, and that it is possible to reach that individuals are prosecuted for committing war crimes and breaching their rules!

Do you think the question will be implemented on Israel?!

Clarifying Israel’s breaches of globally agreed rules of war

First: Beware of targeting civilians and their facilities, and protecting everything that helps them stay alive, targeting them is a crime of war!

So far, the number of killings has reached 2,136 martyrs; more than 65% of them are women and children. (citizens).

4,500 residential buildings completely destroyed by the occupation, including 12 thousand housing units, while about 113,300 thousand housing units were partially damaged, including 8190 housing units uninhabitable!

The Ministry of Education has documented that 153 schools have suffered various damage, 18 of which have gone out of service!

Second: Civilians have the right to receive the necessary assistance of food, water and treatment if one of them is harmed.

On the contrary, the opening of the crossing to enter aid was prevented, food storage centers and storage places for civilians were bombed, and water and electricity were deliberately cut off from them.

Third: Not to prejudice the medical staff and their establishment, and it is forbidden to expose the workers of the crescent or the Red Cross, the wounded and the sick, the right to medical care, whatever their affiliation.

On the contrary, the number of martyrs from health staff since the beginning of the aggression reached 37 martyrs among doctors, nurses and paramedics.

33 health care centers stopped working, while the occupation removed 23 ambulances from service by direct shelling.

Fourth: Palestinian journalists and others at the border were killed and injured, which led to the death of 16 and the injury of dozens of them, although it is forbidden to harm them and this is considered a crime and a breach of laws that emphasize the protection of journalists.

Fifth: The use of internationally banned weapons/bombs is prohibited

Israel relies on bombing civilians with internationally prohibited weapons in every war it launches on Gaza, most notably incendiary white phosphorus bombs, body dissolvings and organ failures.

This is a very simple and clear part of the world who deliberately penetrated the Israeli Zionists in the war, does the world still not know who is the aggressor, the criminal!, who is deliberately and deliberately carrying out the genocide of Palestinian civilians!, world does not realize and see or every person or country in its hands is doing something and is committed to silence is participating in the killing of all martyrs since the war began until that moment.

[entitycradle]

Future Anime Girl Gestalt

As a breakthrough in silicon nanostructure materials makes photonics and near-eye displays cheap, smart glasses become the new ubiquitous computers, replacing smartphones. The always-on display provides unique opportunities for advertisers, as does new machine learning-assisted ad targeting. In the new omnipresent augmented reality, ads become personalized, three-dimensional, interactive displays, emerging from blank rectangles in subway stations. You see your facebook friends conversing animatedly, drinking budweiser.

As smart glasses become increasingly necessary for modern life, brands are able to invade further into perceived reality. Cars shine luxuriously. The name and price of your coworker's smartwatch floats above it. Of course many modern advertisements no longer directly sell a product or service, but rather create and maintain brand identities. Large corporations advertise on everyday objects--the plate at your favorite restaurant reveals the name of a software company as you finish your food. Your brother's anger turns him super saiyan, reminding you of the new episodes. A poor neighborhood turns into an alien-inspired techno-organic nightmare.

Many companies use characters to perpetuate their brand. These characters can be personalized--the insurance company mascot that shows up on your car dashboard during a harrowing rush hour is your favorite color, features large, expressive eyes, and is covered in shaggy fur.

Of course, machine learning algorithms can be unpredictable. And ad agencies could not anticipate the omnivalent memetic power of...

...anime girls.

The algorithm customizes your pepsi soda into a fizzy anime slime girl. They customize the call to your healthcare provider to raise the pitch of the representative's voice and translate the audio to Japanese (your glasses display English subtitles). The missiles you see striking a city in Iran are ridden by pale, northrop grumman-labeled anime maids.

As more human agency is ceded to enormous, power-chugging processing centers, the connections between everyday occurrences and brand presence become more abstract. Every character on a show you're not paying attention to, every old shoe you own, every person you interact with, every grain of sand on the beach, every floater in your eye, is an anime girl.

As humans do, they adapt. Generation Glass becomes accustomed to experiencing two entirely foreign sets of sense-data: one, their local, mundane world, of humming processors and concrete and scraggly trees. The other, the networked world, where your entire visual field is painted in overlapping anime girls of various sizes and your auditory vestibular nerve is drowned in high-pitched giggling. Each girl represents some object--pomegranate, sunset, friends, love, death.

As global civilization gently deflates under the pressure of climate change post-2100, so does the capacity to manufacture complex electronics. Within the space of a generation, billions of people are reduced to creating facile, vapid illustrations of the moving, living anime girls they once knew as bigotry and tarmac. Pictures of anime girls are used to label street signs, mathematical concepts, genders, religious texts. Ironically, anime girls become more incorporated into the real world than they ever were in the Glass period, because they adorn real surfaces. A post-traumatic behavior develops, in which a person destroys objects bearing anime girl images in an attempt to, according to one individual, "let them out," or otherwise restore networked consensus reality.

Thousands of years pass. Peregrine sophists of the Fifth Yyrzoc clan uncover an underground concrete structure. In it are glyphs of a single, big-eyed, pale, skinny, large-breasted woman with bright blue hair, surrounded by female figures in blood-red uniforms who are collapsed on the ground. The sophists are able to decode this message and avoid what we would recognize as a nuclear waste storage facility. They theorize that the figures are ancient feminine gods of radiation and death. Several etchings and illustrations are published by a notable scriptorium. Years later they are largely forgotten.

[thecpdiary]

Biodiversity Loss Concerns

The diversity of life on Earth continues to face ongoing challenges and threats that include the ecosystems, species and genetic diversity that support the planet's balance. By understanding these issues, we can better appreciate what’s needed to protect and sustain our natural world.

Experts' Warning

Experts worldwide are increasingly warning us about the alarming rate of biodiversity loss and its cascading impacts on ecosystems, economies and human health. Biodiversity, the variety of life on Earth – including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms – is essential for ecosystem stability, agricultural productivity and the overall health of our planet. However, rapid habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and over-exploitation of natural resources are driving a sharp decline in biodiversity, prompting urgent calls for action from scientists and conservationists.

University of Surrey Research

New research from the University of Surrey highlights a significant disconnect between national biodiversity policies and the crucial behavioral changes needed at the individual and community levels to drive real progress. The study reveals that while many countries have policies aimed at conserving biodiversity, 90% of these policies do not outline specific actions for individuals or small groups to adjust their behaviour in ways that support conservation goals.

According to researchers, this oversight could be a critical factor in the continued shortfall in meeting global biodiversity targets. By bridging this gap, policies could more effectively mobilize citizens and communities, making conservation efforts more achievable and impactful at a grassroots level.

These concerns can be summarised as follows:

Key Points of Concern

Accelerating Extinction Rates

Species are currently going extinct at rates estimated to be 100 to 1,000 times higher than the natural background rate due to human activities. For instance, recent studies indicate that around 1 million species are at risk of extinction, some within the next few decades, if current trends continue. The loss of species can disrupt ecosystems, weaken food chains, and reduce nature’s resilience against climate extremes.

Ecosystem Services at Risk

Biodiversity is critical for the ecosystem services that humans rely on, including clean air and water, pollination of crops, soil fertility, and carbon storage. For example, bees and other pollinators, whose populations are declining, are essential for the pollination of about 75% of global food crops. The decline in biodiversity weakens ecosystems' ability to provide these services, posing risks to food security and the global economy.

Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss

Climate change amplifies biodiversity loss by altering habitats, weather patterns, and migration routes, which some species cannot adapt to quickly enough. For instance, coral reefs, home to 25% of marine species, are severely threatened by ocean warming and acidification. These reefs are in decline globally, and their loss would have enormous consequences for marine biodiversity and for communities reliant on fisheries and tourism.

Human Health Implications

Biodiversity loss is linked to an increased risk of zoonotic diseases—those that transfer from animals to humans. As habitats shrink and humans encroach further into wild areas, contact with wildlife increases, raising the risk of disease transmission, as seen with Covid-19. Additionally, the decline of species used in traditional medicine and the loss of genetic resources that contribute to medical research jeopardise human health advancements.

Biodiversity concerns refer to the various threats and challenges facing the variety of life on Earth, including the ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity that make up our planet.

These concerns can be summarised as follows:

Habitat Loss

Urbanisation, deforestation, agriculture, and infrastructure development lead to the destruction and fragmentation of natural habitats, endangering species that depend on them.

Climate Change

Alterations in temperature and weather patterns disrupt habitats and migration patterns, affecting species' survival and reproduction.

Pollution

Chemicals, plastic waste, and other pollutants degrade ecosystems, harm wildlife, and disrupt food chains.

Over-exploitation

Unsustainable hunting, fishing, and harvesting deplete populations of certain species, reducing biodiversity and disrupting ecosystems.

Agricultural Practices

Mono-cultures and industrial farming reduce genetic diversity in crops and livestock while increasing vulnerability to pests and diseases.

Soil Degradation

Loss of soil fertility and health impacts plant life and the entire food web.

Human Population Growth

Increasing human demand on resources leads to greater pressure on natural ecosystems.

Invasive Species

Non-native species can outcompete, prey on, or introduce diseases to native species, leading to declines or extinctions.

Economic Consequences

Economies, especially in developing nations, are highly dependent on biodiversity. The World Economic Forum has estimated that more than half of the world's GDP is moderately or highly dependent on nature and its services. This includes industries like agriculture, fishing, and forestry, which are already experiencing the effects of biodiversity loss. The degradation of these resources can lead to job losses, increased costs, and greater poverty in vulnerable regions.

Urgent Calls for Action

Experts emphasise the need for transformative changes to prevent further biodiversity loss, including:

Protection of Natural Habitats: Expanding protected areas, particularly in biodiversity hot-spots, and enforcing sustainable land-use policies are critical. Goals like the "30x30" initiative, which aims to protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030, are gaining international support.

Sustainable Resource Management: Shifting towards sustainable farming, fishing, and forestry practices can help reduce pressure on ecosystems.

Climate Action: Integrating biodiversity conservation with climate action is essential, as these issues are closely linked. Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, restore natural carbon sinks (like forests and wetlands), and promote renewable energy can support both biodiversity and climate resilience.

Global Cooperation and Policy Change: International agreements, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and frameworks like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), provide a roadmap for global action. Strengthening these policies and ensuring accountability is vital for meeting biodiversity targets.

Conclusion: Public Awareness and Education

Raising awareness about biodiversity's importance and the impact of its loss is becoming even more crucial. Educating communities about sustainable practices and encouraging lifestyle changes can contribute significantly to conservation efforts. Biodiversity concerns refer to the various threats and challenges facing the variety of life on earth, including the ecosystems, species and genetic diversity that make up our planet. It is important to take it seriously and commit to it.

Addressing these biodiversity concerns continues to be crucial for maintaining ecosystem services, promoting resilience against environmental changes, and ensuring the wellbeing of future generations. Conservation efforts, sustainable practices and international cooperation are essential in mitigating these threats. (Source: physorg)

For more relatable, inspirational and lifestyle blogs, please check out my site https://www.thecpdiary.com

[reasonsforhope]

"India’s announcement that it aims to reach net zero emissions by 2070 and to meet fifty percent of its electricity requirements from renewable energy sources by 2030 is a hugely significant moment for the global fight against climate change. India is pioneering a new model of economic development that could avoid the carbon-intensive approaches that many countries have pursued in the past – and provide a blueprint for other developing economies.

The scale of transformation in India is stunning. Its economic growth has been among the highest in the world over the past two decades, lifting of millions of people out of poverty. Every year, India adds a city the size of London to its urban population, involving vast construction of new buildings, factories and transportation networks. Coal and oil have so far served as bedrocks of India’s industrial growth and modernisation, giving a rising number of Indian people access to modern energy services. This includes adding new electricity connections for 50 million citizens each year over the past decade. 

The rapid growth in fossil energy consumption has also meant India’s annual CO2 emissions have risen to become the third highest in the world. However, India’s CO2 emissions per person put it near the bottom of the world’s emitters, and they are lower still if you consider historical emissions per person. The same is true of energy consumption: the average household in India consumes a tenth as much electricity as the average household in the United States.  

India’s sheer size and its huge scope for growth means that its energy demand is set to grow by more than that of any other country in the coming decades. In a pathway to net zero emissions by 2070, we estimate that most of the growth in energy demand this decade would already have to be met with low-carbon energy sources. It therefore makes sense that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced more ambitious targets for 2030, including installing 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity, reducing the emissions intensity of its economy by 45%, and reducing a billion tonnes of CO2. 

These targets are formidable, but the good news is that the clean energy transition in India is already well underway. It has overachieved its commitment made at COP 21- Paris Summit [a.k.a. 2015, at the same conference that produced the Paris Agreement] by already meeting 40% of its power capacity from non-fossil fuels- almost nine years ahead of its commitment, and the share of solar and wind in India’s energy mix have grown phenomenally. Owing to technological developments, steady policy support, and a vibrant private sector, solar power plants are cheaper to build than coal ones. Renewable electricity is growing at a faster rate in India than any other major economy, with new capacity additions on track to double by 2026...

Subsidies for petrol and diesel were removed in the early 2010s, and subsidies for electric vehicles were introduced in 2019. India’s robust energy efficiency programme has been successful in reducing energy use and emissions from buildings, transport and major industries. Government efforts to provide millions of households with fuel gas for cooking and heating are enabling a steady transition away from the use of traditional biomass such as burning wood. India is also laying the groundwork to scale up important emerging technologies such as hydrogen, battery storage, and low-carbon steel, cement and fertilisers..."

-via IEA (International Energy Agency), January 10, 2022

Note: And since that's a little old, here's an update to show that progress is still going strong:

-via Economic Times: EnergyWorld, March 10, 2023

[muegroup]

Iraq Oil and Gas Construction Companies: Key Players in Energy Development

As one of the world’s largest oil-producing countries, Iraq relies heavily on its oil and gas industry to drive economic growth. Iraq oil and gas construction companies are essential in building the infrastructure needed for exploration, extraction, and distribution of oil and gas. These companies play a vital role in constructing pipelines, refineries, storage facilities, and processing plants, which are crucial for Iraq’s energy sector. The expertise and efficiency of Iraq oil and gas construction companies directly influence the country’s ability to maintain its role as a global energy provider.

The Importance of Iraq’s Oil and Gas Sector

The oil and gas sector contributes around 90% of Iraq’s national revenue, making it a cornerstone of the economy. With abundant reserves and a strategic location, Iraq has positioned itself as a major player in the global energy market. However, the sector faces challenges, including the need to update outdated infrastructure and improve efficiency in extraction and refining processes. This is where Iraq oil and gas construction companies step in, offering the expertise and technology to modernize and expand infrastructure. Through their work, these companies not only contribute to economic growth but also help secure Iraq’s future as a competitive energy producer.

Key Services Offered by Iraq Oil and Gas Construction Companies

Iraq’s oil and gas construction companies provide a variety of services to meet the complex demands of the industry. These services include:

Pipeline Construction and Maintenance One of the most critical components of the oil and gas infrastructure is pipelines. They enable the safe and efficient transport of crude oil and natural gas across long distances. Iraq oil and gas construction companies specialize in designing, building, and maintaining pipelines that meet both national and international safety standards. Regular maintenance of these pipelines is crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring smooth operation, making these companies indispensable to the sector.

Refinery Construction and Expansion Refineries are vital for processing crude oil into usable products, such as gasoline, diesel, and petrochemicals. Iraq oil and gas construction companies are skilled in constructing new refineries and expanding existing ones to meet the increasing demand. These projects require advanced engineering and the latest technology to maximize efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Storage Facilities Efficient storage solutions are essential for managing the supply of oil and gas, especially as global demand fluctuates. Iraq’s construction companies build and maintain large-scale storage facilities, which help manage the country’s energy reserves and stabilize the supply chain. Properly constructed storage facilities also ensure the safe handling of hazardous materials, reducing the risk of accidents.

Processing Plants and Equipment Installation Processing plants convert raw oil and gas into products ready for distribution. Iraq oil and gas construction companies work on both the construction and maintenance of these plants, installing specialized equipment designed to maximize output and minimize waste. This involves incorporating technology that meets international standards for efficiency and environmental protection, supporting Iraq’s long-term goals for sustainable energy production.

Technology and Innovation in Iraq’s Oil and Gas Construction Sector

To stay competitive and meet the demands of an evolving energy market, Iraq oil and gas construction companies are increasingly incorporating advanced technology into their projects. Key technologies used include:

Digital Monitoring and Automation: Digital sensors and automated systems help monitor pipeline pressure, detect leaks, and manage refinery operations more efficiently.

Drones and Robotics: Drones are now commonly used for aerial surveys and inspections, especially in challenging terrain. Robotics aid in tasks such as welding and equipment installation, enhancing precision and safety.

Environmental Technologies: New technologies designed to reduce emissions and manage waste are also being integrated. For instance, gas flaring reduction technology is becoming more common, helping to minimize environmental impact.

The Role of Local Expertise and International Partnerships

While Iraq oil and gas construction companies possess significant expertise, international partnerships are often crucial for large-scale projects. Collaborating with global firms allows Iraqi companies to leverage foreign technology, knowledge, and financing, enhancing their ability to complete complex projects successfully. These partnerships also facilitate knowledge transfer, training local engineers and workers in the latest techniques and technologies. This local expertise, combined with international standards, strengthens Iraq’s position in the global oil and gas market and builds a more sustainable workforce.

Challenges Faced by Iraq Oil and Gas Construction Companies

Despite their importance, Iraq oil and gas construction companies face several challenges. These include:

Security Concerns: Iraq has areas where security remains a concern, which can disrupt project timelines and create additional costs for safety measures.

Regulatory Hurdles: The regulatory environment can be complex, particularly for international partnerships. Compliance with both local and international regulations requires careful planning and adaptability.

Environmental Impact: With a growing emphasis on sustainability, Iraq oil and gas construction companies are increasingly pressured to reduce their environmental footprint, requiring additional investment in green technology and eco-friendly practices.

Conclusion

Iraq oil and gas construction companies are key drivers of the nation’s energy industry, enabling the development, maintenance, and expansion of crucial infrastructure. Their services in pipeline construction, refinery expansion, storage, and processing plants are foundational to Iraq’s energy production and economic stability. By embracing technological advancements and fostering international partnerships, these companies continue to support Iraq’s ambitions in the global energy sector. Despite challenges, the expertise and innovation of Iraq oil and gas construction companies remain essential for ensuring Iraq’s future as a competitive energy powerhouse.

[unpluggedfinancial]

The Evolution of Money: From Barter to Bitcoin

Money has always been an essential part of human society, serving as a tool for exchange, value storage, and facilitating trade. From the early days of barter systems to the modern era of digital currencies, money has evolved in fascinating ways. In this post, we will explore the history of money—from the simple barter systems to the rise of Bitcoin as a potential solution for today's monetary challenges.

1. Barter System In the earliest days of human society, people used a barter system to trade goods and services directly. If someone had surplus grain and needed a tool, they would find someone who had that tool and was in need of grain. While this system worked on a small scale, it had significant limitations. The "coincidence of wants" problem made it impractical—both parties had to want what the other had, and this was often not the case. As societies grew more complex, a more efficient system was needed.

2. Emergence of Commodity Money To overcome the inefficiencies of barter, societies began using commodity money—items that had intrinsic value and were widely accepted in trade. Items like shells, cattle, and metals became mediums of exchange. Commodity money solved the "coincidence of wants" issue and allowed for more standardized trade. However, challenges persisted, such as portability, divisibility, and the ability to assess value consistently.

3. Metallic Coins and Standardization The introduction of metallic coins marked a significant leap forward. Coins made from precious metals like gold, silver, and copper had inherent value and could be easily transported and traded. Standardization played a key role—authorities like kings and governments minted coins to certify their value, providing public trust in the monetary system. Metallic coins facilitated commerce and expanded trade networks, but they also required oversight and protection from debasement or counterfeiting.

4. Paper Money and Government Backing To address the practicality of carrying large quantities of coins, societies transitioned to using paper money. Initially, these paper notes acted as promissory notes that represented a claim on a specific amount of gold or silver stored by a bank. Central banking systems were established to manage these reserves, and eventually, governments began issuing paper currency backed by their promise of value. This emergence of government-backed fiat currency allowed for much greater flexibility and convenience in managing the money supply.

5. The Gold Standard and Its Demise For much of the 19th and early 20th centuries, many countries adhered to the gold standard, where paper money was directly linked to a fixed amount of gold. This system aimed to stabilize currencies and prevent excessive inflation. However, during the Great Depression in 1933, the U.S. government made owning significant amounts of gold illegal and confiscated gold holdings from citizens to stabilize the economy and provide more control over the money supply. By the early 1970s, the gold standard was completely abandoned, and fiat currency—money not backed by any physical commodity—became the global norm.

6. The Fiat Era and Modern Challenges Fiat currency, backed solely by the trust and authority of governments, allowed countries to control their monetary policies and react to economic challenges. However, there are notable downsides. Governments can print more money to fund expenditures, leading to inflation. In recent years, countries worldwide have been printing money at an unprecedented rate, leading to a compounding effect that reduces the purchasing power of their currencies. This widespread money printing not only creates inflation but also contributes to economic instability. Due to the interconnected nature of the global economy, these actions often have ripple effects, creating financial uncertainty and challenges for individuals worldwide.

7. The Advent of Bitcoin Bitcoin emerged in 2009 as a response to the perceived failings of the traditional monetary system. It introduced a digital, decentralized alternative to traditional forms of money. Bitcoin is built on a peer-to-peer network that operates without the need for intermediaries like banks. Its limited supply of 21 million coins ensures scarcity, and its transparent, decentralized ledger—the blockchain—addresses many of the issues related to trust and inflation. Bitcoin represents a bold step forward in the evolution of money, one that resists censorship, preserves value, and operates independently of centralized authorities.

8. Comparison: Bitcoin vs. Fiat Currency Bitcoin offers key advantages over fiat currency. Unlike fiat, which can be printed at will, Bitcoin's supply is fixed and predictable. Its decentralized nature makes it resistant to censorship and government intervention. While fiat currency benefits governments by allowing them to control economic policy, Bitcoin's transparent and decentralized framework empowers individuals and offers a new level of financial sovereignty.

Conclusion The evolution of money has been shaped by humanity's ongoing quest for convenience, fairness, and stability. From barter systems to commodity money, metallic coins, paper currency, and now digital assets, each stage reflects our changing needs. Bitcoin represents the next step in this evolution, offering a solution to the challenges of fiat currency—such as inflation, centralization, and lack of transparency. As the world continues to change, it's worth considering whether Bitcoin might be the foundation for a more resilient and fair financial system in the future.

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Donate Bitcoin: bc1qpn98s4gtlvy686jne0sr8ccvfaxz646kk2tl8lu38zz4dvyyvflqgddylk

[rjzimmerman]

The Carbon Footprint of Amazon, Google, and Facebook Is Growing. (Sierra Club)

Excerpt from this story from Sierra Club:

IN MARCH The Information reported that Microsoft was in talks with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, about spending an eye-popping $100 billion on a gargantuan data center in Wisconsin dedicated to running artificial intelligence software. Code-named “Stargate,” the data center would, at full operation, consume five gigawatts of electricity, enough to power 3.7 million homes. For comparison purposes, that’s roughly the same amount of power produced by Plant Vogtle, the big nuclear power station in Georgia that cost $30 billion to build.

Stargate is in the earliest of planning stages, but the sheer scale of the proposal reflects a truth about artificial intelligence: AI is an energy hog. That’s an embarrassing about-face for the technology industry. For at least 20 years, American electricity consumption has hardly grown at all—owing in part, say computer scientists, to steady advances in energy efficiency that have percolated out of the tech industry into the larger economy. In 2023, according to the US Energy Information Administration, total electricity consumption fell slightly from 2022 levels.

But according to a report published last December by Grid Strategies, a consultancy that advises on energy policy, multiple electric utilities now predict that US energy demand will rise by up to 5 percent over the next five years. One of the chief culprits responsible for the surge, say the utilities, are new data centers designed to run AI. To meet the growing demand for power, those utilities want to build new fossil fuel power plants and to dismantle climate legislation that stands in their way.

For environmentalists, this represents a giant step backward. Artificial intelligence was supposed to help us solve problems. What good are ChatGPT and its ilk if using them worsens global warming?

This is a relatively new story—the AI gold rush is still in its infancy, ChatGPT only having debuted in fall 2022. But computing’s energy demands have been growing for decades, ever since the internet became an indispensable part of daily life. Every Zoom call, Netflix binge, Google search, YouTube video, and TikTok dance is processed in a windowless, warehouse-like building filled with thousands of pieces of computer hardware. These data centers are where the internet happens, the physical manifestation of the so-called cloud—perhaps as far away from ethereality as you can get.

In the popular mind, the cloud is often thought of in the simple sense of storage. This is where we back up our photos, our videos, our Google Docs. But that’s just a small slice of it: For the past 20 years, computation itself has increasingly been outsourced to data centers. Corporations, governments, research institutions, and others have discovered that it is cheaper and more efficient to rent computing services from Big Tech.

The crucial point, writes anthropologist Steven Gonzalez Monserrate in his case study The Cloud Is Material: On the Environmental Impacts of Computation and Data Storage, is that “heat is the waste product of computation.” Data centers consume so much energy because computer chips produce large amounts of heat. Roughly 40 percent of a data center’s electricity bill is the result of just keeping things cool. And the new generation of AI software is far more processor intensive and power hungry than just about anything—with the notable exception of cryptocurrency—that has come before.

The energy cost of AI and its perverse, climate-unfriendly incentives for electric utilities are a gut check for a tech industry that likes to think of itself as changing the world for the better. Michelle Solomon, an analyst at the nonprofit think tank Energy Innovation, calls the AI power crunch “a litmus test” for a society threatened by climate change.