Glass Wings Blog: April 2020

The Pandemic Will Be Livestreamed

Thu, 2 Apr 2020 06:38:33 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/coronavirus-online-arts-culture/

"The coronavirus has forced the world’s most renowned cultural
institutions to shut their doors, from the Louvre in Paris to the
Suntory Hall in Tokyo. Many are finding ways to keep their offerings

(More...)

That Discomfort You’re Feeling Is Grief

Thu, 2 Apr 2020 06:40:26 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://hbr.org/2020/03/that-discomfort-youre-feeling-is-grief

"There is something powerful about naming this as grief. It helps us
feel what’s inside of us. So many have told me in the past week, “I’m
telling my coworkers I’m having a hard time,” or “I cried last night.”

(More...)

Homelessness and overcrowding expose us all to coronavirus. Here’s what we can do to stop the spread

Thu, 2 Apr 2020 06:41:46 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/homelessness-and-overcrowding-expose-us-all-to-coronavirus-heres-what-we-can-do-to-stop-the-spread-134378>

"Crowding is endemic in Indigenous communities. Poorly maintained and
inadequate dwelling conditions make the impacts of crowding worse.

(More...)

Why are we calling it ‘social distancing’? Right now, we need social connections more than ever

Thu, 2 Apr 2020 06:42:52 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/why-are-we-calling-it-social-distancing-right-now-we-need-social-connections-more-than-ever-134249>

"The so-called social distancing measures seek to limit the spread of
COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, by reducing
physical contact between people. And there’s evidence these measures work.

(More...)

Why Basic Income Is a Mental Health Issue

Fri, 3 Apr 2020 04:36:50 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/a3akm4/why-basic-income-is-a-mental-health-issue>

"Across the Western world, there is a rising epidemic of depression and
anxiety—one that disfigured my life for over a decade. For years now,
the United Nations has been trying to warn us that these problems are

(More...)

The Australian welfare system has always been needlessly cruel. Now it’s punishing half the country

Fri, 3 Apr 2020 04:40:11 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/mar/25/the-australian-welfare-system-has-always-been-needlessly-cruel-now-its-punishing-half-the-country>

"The fact that many ‘necessary’ social indignities can be discarded for
Covid-19 only shows how unnecessary they were in the first place"

(More...)

The community-led movement creating hope in the time of coronavirus

Fri, 3 Apr 2020 04:41:11 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/the-community-led-movement-creating-hope-in-the-time-of-coronavirus-134391>

"The global COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the social networks we rely
on. Workplaces, pubs, restaurants and gyms have closed and many people
are now housebound.

(More...)

Why do rightwing populist leaders oppose experts?

Sat, 4 Apr 2020 07:11:01 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/mar/26/rightwing-populist-leaders-oppose-experts-not-elites>

"Is the success of the Trumps, Bolsonaros and Johnsons of this world
proof that the people can always be seduced by demagogues – and simply
don’t know what’s good for them? Distrust of professionalism does not

(More...)

Copyright Is Broken: COVID-19 Pandemic Revealing Just How Messed Up Our Permission-Based Culture Is

Sat, 4 Apr 2020 07:13:05 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20200325/17011244174/copyright-is-broken-covid-19-pandemic-revealing-just-how-messed-up-our-permission-based-culture-is.shtml>

"When we get through this pandemic, we should remember this mess, and
fix a bunch of problems with copyright law to make sure we don't need to
do this again. We should make it 100% clear that classroom uses are fair

(More...)

With the climate crisis and coronavirus bearing down on us, the age of disconnection is over

Sat, 4 Apr 2020 07:14:26 +1100

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/mar/28/with-the-climate-crisis-and-coronavirus-bearing-down-on-us-the-age-of-disconnection-is-over>

"A pandemic, more than almost any other phenomenon, shows that all our
lives are inextricably intertwined, for now and forever, whether we like
it or not. It brings into sharp focus the impossibility of trying to

(More...)

Tackle climate crisis and poverty with zeal of Covid-19 fight, scientists urge

Sun, 5 Apr 2020 05:13:53 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/28/coronavirus-tackle-climate-crisis-and-poverty-with-zeal-of-covid-19-fight-scientists-urge>

"Government responses to climate breakdown and to the challenges of
poverty and inequality must be changed permanently after the coronavirus
has been dealt with, leading scientists have urged, as the actions taken

(More...)

Family violence perpetrators using COVID-19 as 'a form of abuse we have not experienced before'

Sun, 5 Apr 2020 05:14:49 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-29/coronavirus-family-violence-surge-in-victoria/12098546>

"As a rise in family violence due to the coronavirus crisis is set to
strain an already critically overstretched social support system, some
abusers are reportedly using COVID-19 as a psychological weapon."

(More...)

Fable the Raven

Sun, 5 Apr 2020 05:16:55 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
Fable the Raven | Did you know Ravens can talk?!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2d3dOam9Hg4

Fable the Raven | Enrichment - Puzzles, Colours & Conversation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eE3f2H_5mXU

(More...)

The People in Charge See an Opportunity

Mon, 6 Apr 2020 06:27:20 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/03/when-disease-comes-leaders-grab-more-power/608560/>

"Around the world, rulers are using the pandemic as an excuse to grab
more power. And the public is going along with it."

(More...)

How we can redesign cities to fight future pandemics

Mon, 6 Apr 2020 06:28:19 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.fastcompany.com/90479665/how-we-can-redesign-cities-to-fight-future-pandemics>

"Throughout history, disease outbreaks have forced new innovations in
urban design: Fighting cholera epidemics in the 1800s, for example,
necessitated the building of new plumbing and sewer systems and the

(More...)

A major scorecard gives the health of Australia’s environment less than 1 out of 10

Mon, 6 Apr 2020 06:30:23 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/a-major-scorecard-gives-the-health-of-australias-environment-less-than-1-out-of-10-133444>

"2019 was the year Australians confronted the fact that a healthy
environment is more than just a pretty waterfall in a national park; a
nice extra we can do without. We do not survive without air to breathe,

(More...)

NASA pulls out incredibly high-res global map of asteroid Bennu

Tue, 7 Apr 2020 05:42:43 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://newatlas.com/space/high-resolution-global-map-asteroid-bennu/

"With OSIRIS-REx in close orbit around Bennu, we’ve already seen some
pretty amazing up-close shots of the asteroid. And now, NASA has
released a full global map of this rocky little world in unprecedented

(More...)

Greta: We must fight the climate crisis and pandemic simultaneously

Tue, 7 Apr 2020 05:44:15 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.newscientist.com/article/2238831-greta-we-must-fight-the-climate-crisis-and-pandemic-simultaneously/>

"The world needs to tackle the coronavirus pandemic and climate change
simultaneously, and guard against people who try to use the current
crisis to delay action on cutting carbon emissions, Greta Thunberg has

(More...)

This Is Not the Apocalypse You Were Looking For

Tue, 7 Apr 2020 05:46:16 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.wired.com/story/coronavirus-apocalypse-myths/

"Right now, with over a third of the world on some sort of lockdown,
with the entire world going through some version of the same crisis at
once, we are suddenly frantic to touch one another. It seems more

(More...)

For one tide only: modernist sandcastles – in pictures

Wed, 8 Apr 2020 05:25:52 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2020/mar/28/for-one-tide-only-modernist-sandcastles-in-pictures>

"Artist Calvin Seibert grew up on a ski resort strongly influenced by
brutalist architecture in 1960s Colorado.

(More...)

Publishers And Authors Misguided Freakout Over Internet Archive's Decision To Enable More Digital Book Checkouts During A Pandemic

Wed, 8 Apr 2020 05:28:56 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20200330/18125844202/publishers-authors-misguided-freakout-over-internet-archives-decision-to-enable-more-digital-book-checkouts-during-pandemic.shtml>

"This is all a bunch of nonsense. As we've highlighted a few times in
recent weeks, the pandemic has really highlighted just how insane
copyright has become and how unmoored it is from its original intent of

(More...)

The Risks Digest on COVID-19

Wed, 8 Apr 2020 05:34:15 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
http://catless.ncl.ac.uk/Risks/31/63

Contents
--------

(More...)

Oceans can be restored to former glory within 30 years, say scientists

Thu, 9 Apr 2020 03:06:28 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/apr/01/oceans-can-be-restored-to-former-glory-within-30-years-say-scientists>

"The glory of the world’s oceans could be restored within a generation,
according to a major new scientific review. It reports rebounding sea
life, from humpback whales off Australia to elephant seals in the US and

(More...)

Animal tragic: New Zealand zoos strive to entertain lonely inhabitants amid lockdown

Thu, 9 Apr 2020 03:07:47 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/02/new-zealand-zoos-strive-to-entertain-lonely-inhabitants-amid-lockdown>

"While humans have been using Netflix and Zoom to quell the coronavirus
lockdown ennui, New Zealand’s zoo animals have also been struggling with
boredom – and zookeepers have had to resort to some unusual measures to

(More...)

The Pandemic Is Turning the Natural World Upside Down

Thu, 9 Apr 2020 03:09:06 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2020/04/coronavirus-pandemic-earth-pollution-noise/609316/>

"From inside her living room in London, Paula Koelemeijer can feel the
world around her growing quieter.

(More...)

Pretend you're not in quarantine with these 7 beach livestreams from around the world

Thu, 9 Apr 2020 03:21:10 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://mashable.com/article/quarantine-beach-live-streams/

"Ah, to be at the beach. The sun, kissing your face. The waves,
crashing, lulling you into a mid-afternoon nap. The salt-water breeze,
filling your lungs as you inhale fresh, clean, ocean air. Your only

(More...)

COVID-19: Sign the call for global ceasefire!

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 04:29:30 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://secure.avaaz.org/campaign/en/global_ceasefire_loc/

"Our world faces a common enemy: COVID-19. The virus does not care about
nationality or ethnicity, faction or faith. It attacks all, relentlessly.

(More...)

'We must use this time well': climate experts hopeful after Cop26 delay

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 04:31:36 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/apr/02/we-must-use-this-time-well-climate-experts-hopeful-after-cop26-delay-coronavirus>

"Green campaigners and climate leaders have vowed to keep up the
pressure on governments around the world to make stringent new
commitments on the climate crisis, as a vital UN climate summit was

(More...)

Coronavirus has forced many to rely on Centrelink — just like those who have been called 'bludgers' in the past

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 04:33:39 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-04/coronavirus-forced-families-to-centrelink-empathy/12113048>

"It's been surreal to watch friends, family and the broader public
thrust so suddenly into a world I have inhabited for years: figuring out
how to navigate Centrelink.

(More...)

US war on science ‘undermining war on coronavirus’

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 06:36:31 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/us-war-science-undermining-war-coronavirus>

"The US administration’s war on expertise is imperilling the country’s
people and jeopardising the global fight against Covid-19, according to
former Australian chief scientist Penny Sackett.

(More...)

What the Coronavirus Pandemic Can Teach Us About the Climate Emergency

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 06:38:14 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theintercept.com/2020/04/04/coronavirus-pandemic-climate-change-co2-emissions/>

"Greta Thunberg couldn’t do it. Bill McKibben and 350.org couldn’t do
it, and neither could the Paris climate accord. But Covid-19 is cutting
human-caused emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases as

(More...)

Rescuing the Great Barrier Reef: how much can be saved, and how can we do it?

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 06:40:29 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/apr/05/rescuing-the-great-barrier-reef-how-much-can-be-saved-and-how-can-we-do-it>

"Scientists Guardian Australia spoke to say the reef’s fortunes hang on
the answers to two questions.

(More...)

E.L.O (Electric Light Orchestra) All Over The World

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 06:41:46 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh3i3vWgPyk

"Tribute to all Flash Mob's"

Via Violante de Rojas and then Muse, who wrote "I’m still snuffling and

(More...)

Isolation inspiration: free access to Crafts magazine’s 50-year archive

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 05:04:10 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.craftscouncil.org.uk/articles/isolation-inspiration-free-access-to-crafts-magazines-50-year-archive>

"At Crafts magazine, our thoughts are with all our readers and
contributors at this challenging time. We want to support and entertain
you in any way we can. To help brighten up isolation, we’re offering you

(More...)

Big Oil is using the coronavirus pandemic to push through the Keystone XL pipeline

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 05:05:09 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/apr/05/climate-crisis-villains-oil-industry-big-banks-pipelines>

"I’m going to tell you the single worst story I’ve heard in these past
few horrid months, a story that combines naked greed, political
influence peddling, a willingness to endanger innocent human beings,

(More...)

During the Great Depression, many newspapers betrayed their readers. Some are doing it again now

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 05:06:36 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/during-the-great-depression-many-newspapers-betrayed-their-readers-some-are-doing-it-again-now-135426>

"Many newspapers betrayed their readers during the Great Depression and
now some are doing so again during the coronavirus pandemic.

(More...)

Sorry to disappoint climate deniers, but coronavirus makes the low-carbon transition more urgent

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 05:07:28 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/sorry-to-disappoint-climate-deniers-but-coronavirus-makes-the-low-carbon-transition-more-urgent-135419>

"Climate deniers have been hanging out for the United Nations’ next big
summit to fail. In a sense, the coronavirus and its induced policy
responses have more than satisfied their wildest dreams, precipitating a

(More...)

Best path to net zero: Cut short-lived super-pollutants

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 05:16:47 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://thebulletin.org/2020/04/best-path-to-net-zero-cut-short-lived-super-pollutants/>

"Time is of the essence for slowing these feedbacks: The planet is
currently on course to add 50 percent more warming and exceed the 1.5
degrees Celsius threshold for dangerous warming as early as 2030, with a

(More...)

We are witnessing a cultural bloodbath in Australia that has been years in the making

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 05:17:39 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2020/apr/06/we-are-witnessing-a-cultural-bloodbath-in-australia-that-has-been-years-in-the-making>

"As any performer or comedian will tell you, timing is everything.

The cliché was never more painful than last Friday, when the Australia

(More...)

Scientists Just Laid Out a Detailed Plan to Replenish Marine Life by 2050

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 05:18:33 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.sciencealert.com/here-s-the-plan-we-need-to-follow-to-replenish-marine-life-by-2050>

"If you're not familiar with UN Sustainable Development Goal number 14,
its aim is to "conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine
resources for sustainable development" – and scientists just put

(More...)

Be Prepared

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 05:19:16 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://katherinephelps.com/2020/04/be-prepared/

"We need to think about many things for when our pandemic quarantine is
over. Here are two I would like to mention.

(More...)

The Long Game

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 05:59:43 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://dailyreview.com.au/the-long-game/

"I often work in speculative fiction, but speculative reality is much
harder. In speculative fiction you can be pretty loose with the
imagination. In speculative reality, there is a responsibility,

(More...)

#NoWorkerLeftBehind

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 06:01:48 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://twitter.com/withMEAA/status/1245631865412714496

"Many freelance artists, performers and screen crew are ineligible for
the government’s new JobKeeper wage subsidy. Today they took action on
social media to explain why we need an income subsidy for everyone.

(More...)

I Don't Know What We're Talking About - NSP

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 06:02:51 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhOadP3i3a8

A new Ninja Sex Party track!

(More...)

The Earth Is Telling Us We Must Rethink Our Growth Society

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 06:04:18 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://thetyee.ca/Analysis/2020/04/06/The-Earth-Is-Telling-Us-We-Must-Rethink-Our-Growth-Society/>

"We might also build on the better side of human nature as ironically
invigorated by our collective war on COVID-19. In many places, society’s
fear of disease has been leavened by a revived sense of community,

(More...)

New Aquatic Nature Reserve Protects Critically Endangered River Dolphins in Borneo

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 05:34:42 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.rainforesttrust.org/new-aquatic-nature-reserve-protects-critically-endangered-river-dolphins-in-borneo/>

"This month, the 106,544-acre Aquatic Nature Reserve of Pesut Habitat,
the first of two planned protected areas, has come to fruition. This
reserve covers a 58-mile stretch of the Mahakam river home to between

(More...)

Cultivating Biodiversity at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 05:36:34 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://pgsignal.com/cultivating-biodiversity-at-kew/

"Although you may think of Kew Gardens as a tourist destination, the
Royal Botanic Gardens also has an important scientific role. Since the
institution’s creation in 1759, it has made significant contributions to

(More...)

Essential fruit and veg pickers 'homeless' due to coronavirus, meaning crops may be left to rot

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 05:38:14 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-09/backpacker-accommodation-shortage-risks-veg-harvest-coronavirus/12132718>

"The fruit and vegetable industry has warned that crops may be left to
rot in fields because of a major shortage of accommodation for
backpackers who pick the produce.

(More...)

The Coronavirus Is a Preview of Our Climate-Change Future

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 07:17:04 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2020/04/the-coronavirus-is-a-preview-of-our-climate-change-future.html>

"COVID-19 is not a climate-change pandemic — as far as we know, nothing
about the emergence or spread of the coronavirus bears the recognizable
imprint of global warming. But if the disease and our utter inability to

(More...)

8 Super Chill Maker Youtube Channels That Are Completely Addicting

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 07:22:09 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.epbot.com/2020/04/8-super-chill-maker-youtube-channels.html

"I'm not on YouTube TOO much - it can easily suck my whole day away -
but I do have some favorite channels I think you guys are gonna like!"

(More...)

Calls for Morrison to end fossil fuel stimulus, redirect funds to clean tech

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 07:23:02 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://reneweconomy.com.au/calls-for-morrison-to-end-fossil-fuel-stimulus-redirect-funds-to-clean-tech-67101/>

"There are fresh calls for prime minister Scott Morrison to place
support for clean energy, and measures to account for fossil fuel
subsidies, at the heart of economic stimulus measures being introduced

(More...)

Toilet roll cakes

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 07:24:15 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://twitter.com/SCMPNews/status/1248305676163538947

"This bakery has been saved from financial ruin — by its panic
buying-inspired 'toilet roll cakes'."

(More...)

Wildlife destruction 'not a slippery slope but a series of cliff edges'

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 04:53:05 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/apr/08/wildlife-destruction-not-a-slippery-slope-but-a-series-of-cliff-edges>

"Wildlife species will die out and natural ecosystems collapse in the
near future if the climate crisis goes unchecked, scientists have
warned, as new research shows that the natural world is at far greater

(More...)

As Record Labels Still Are Demanding Mandated Filters; Facebook's Copyright Filter Takes Down A Guy Playing Bach

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 04:54:23 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20200406/00302644242/as-record-labels-still-are-demanding-mandated-filters-facebooks-copyright-filter-takes-down-guy-playing-bach.shtml>

"We've been covering a bunch of nonsense copyright stories lately, as
the pandemic has really done quite a job in demonstrating the complete
inanity of much of our copyright infrastructure. The latest, as posted

(More...)

Most laws ignore ‘human-wildlife conflict’. This makes us vulnerable to pandemics

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 05:04:31 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/most-laws-ignore-human-wildlife-conflict-this-makes-us-vulnerable-to-pandemics-135191>

"Never before have we seen how the human use of wildlife can yield such
catastrophe, as we have with COVID-19.

(More...)

Climate crisis: in coronavirus lockdown, nature bounces back – but for how long?

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 05:07:24 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/09/climate-crisis-amid-coronavirus-lockdown-nature-bounces-back-but-for-how-long>

"These 100 days have changed the way we think about change. Ultimately,
whether this pandemic is good or bad for the environment depends not on
the virus, but on humanity. If there is no political pressure on

(More...)

Happy Birthday, Statute of Anne

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 04:38:56 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20200410/10255644272/happy-birthday-statute-anne.shtml>

"The Statute of Anne, whose anniversary of coming into force on April
10, 1710 we celebrate today, is one of the founding pillars of modern US
and UK copyright law. At the time of its passage it reflected an

(More...)

With powwows cancelled, Indigenous dancers share videos of themselves dancing in isolation

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 04:40:03 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://thestarphoenix.com/news/local-news/with-powwows-cancelled-indigenous-dancers-share-videos-of-themselves-dancing-in-isolation/>

"Tiny Rosales prays the hardest when she dances. So when the COVID-19
pandemic forced the cancellation of powwows across North America, she
knew she needed to do something to keep people dancing.

(More...)

How the coronavirus pandemic could shift the multicultural make-up of our society

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 04:43:33 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-11/coronavirus-migrant-workers-international-students-australia/12130784>

"Excluding international students and migrant workers from emergency
economic measures in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic could lead to
unintended economic consequences, migration experts have warned.

(More...)

Flying electric cars have landed and there will be races in late 2020

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 04:49:30 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.euronews.com/living/2020/04/11/with-women-among-the-pilots-this-is-set-to-be-the-formula-1-for-flying-electric-cars>

"Flying car races are no longer just reserved for computer games and
science fiction movies, now they are hitting the real world.

(More...)

Hawks' Forbidden Love Results In A Rare Hybrid

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 03:54:08 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2020/04/hawks-forbidden-love-results-in-a-rare-hybrid/>

"She was a common black hawk. He was a red-shouldered hawk. They weren’t
in the same genus, let alone the same species, and they normally don’t
even live in the same part of the continent. But in a strange twist of

(More...)

Amsterdam to embrace 'doughnut' model to mend post-coronavirus economy

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 03:55:45 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/08/amsterdam-doughnut-model-mend-post-coronavirus-economy>

"Raworth’s 2017 bestselling book, Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to
Think Like a 21st-Century Economist, has graced the bedside table of
people ranging from the former Brexit secretary David Davis to the

(More...)

Goodies star Brooke-Taylor dies with coronavirus

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 03:59:07 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-52262490

"Comedian Tim Brooke-Taylor has died at the age of 79 with coronavirus,
his agent has confirmed to the BBC.

(More...)

Bichopalo

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 04:00:46 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.instagram.com/_bichopalo_/

Stunningly beautiful works of art!

Via Muse, who wrote "Wowie! These musical instruments are awesome. Click

(More...)

Thank You for the Music - Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 05:41:37 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUeoUlvB-e8

"Thank You For The Music, performed by George Hinchliffe's Ukulele
Orchestra of Great Britain while in self isolation."

(More...)

Human impact on wildlife to blame for spread of viruses, says study

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 05:43:31 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/apr/08/human-impact-on-wildlife-to-blame-for-spread-of-viruses-says-study-aoe>

"Hunting, farming and the global move of people to cities has led to
massive declines in biodiversity and increased the risk of dangerous
viruses like Covid-19 spilling over from animals to humans, a major

(More...)

The Sunday Read: Weird Al Yankovic’s Weirdly Enduring Appeal

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 05:45:35 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/12/podcasts/the-daily/weird-al-yankovic-coronavirus-music.html>

"On this episode of “The Sunday Read,” staff writer Sam Anderson claims
Weird Al Yankovic is not just a parody singer — he’s “a full-on rock
star, a legitimate performance monster and a spiritual technician doing

(More...)

This Heartwarming Story About A Selfless Farmer Is Making People Tear Up

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 05:47:29 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.boredpanda.com/wholesome-tumblr-story-farmer-arepo-kindness/

"It is no secret that most of us nowadays have our little special corner
of the Internet, whether that would be our Instagram or Twitter account,
Imgur profile, a personal blog, YouTube account – you name it, there’s a

(More...)

These Four Startups Are Redefining Sustainability

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 06:06:56 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://pgsignal.com/these-four-startups-are-redefining-sustainability/

"To effect change on a global scale, we have to come up with new ideas
and approaches that shift deeply-ingrained consumer habits. Along the
way, we also have to rethink packaging, supply chains, and manufacturing.

(More...)

Why Return To Normal After COVID?

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 06:08:44 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://talkingpointsmemo.com/edblog/mourning-our-lost-lifestyles-after-covid-19>

"Perhaps, rather than trying to get back to our old normal, we might see
what’s happening now as a chance to start making new normals.  Is there
anything we can learn, from what we are suffering with in 2020, that

(More...)

To build back better, we need to plan now

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 06:10:40 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/to-build-back-better-we-need-to-plan-now-20200415-p54jwt.html>

"One thing that seems clear is that following this period of massive
social transformation we will emerge in a dramatically different world.

(More...)

How drawing cups is helping me keep it together during the coronavirus pandemic

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 05:13:25 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.abc.net.au/life/how-drawing-is-helping-me-keep-it-together-during-coronavirus/12106592>

"One day last week I drew 76 cups.

As someone who lives alone, drawing cups has been one of the main ways

(More...)

"It'll all be over by Christmas"

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 05:14:44 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<http://www.antipope.org/charlie/blog-static/2020/04/itll-all-be-over-by-christmas.html>

"Let me make some predictions, starting with:

No it won't."

(More...)

Friendship Is a Lifesaver

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 05:16:19 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
http://nautil.us/issue/84/outbreak/friendship-is-a-lifesaver

"All too often we fail to appreciate what we have until it’s gone. And
this shared global moment has illuminated how significant friends are to
day-to-day happiness. Science has been accumulating evidence that

(More...)

Stranded at LAX since Christmas Eve. Homeless. Then the coronavirus hit

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 05:18:39 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-03-29/stranded-at-lax-homeless-then-the-coronavirus-hits>

"Davis and Poppy have had a rare view of the pandemic’s impact on
Southern California air travel. They had been living in Terminal 6 at
Los Angeles International Airport since Christmas Eve, when Davis fell

(More...)

Watch Four-Part '10 Years with Hayao Miyazaki' Documentary for Free

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 05:19:39 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://hypebeast.com/2020/4/10-years-with-hayao-miyazaki-documentary-studio-ghibli>

"Last year’s four-part documentary series 10 Years with Hayao Miyazaki
is available to watch for free courtesy of Japanese national broadcaster
NHK. The 2019 documentary celebrates the life and decade’s work of the

(More...)

Coronavirus shows we are not at all prepared for the security threat of climate change

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 05:20:23 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-shows-we-are-not-at-all-prepared-for-the-security-threat-of-climate-change-136029>

"Over the first few crucial weeks of this crisis, we’ve seen world
leaders take a number of actions that indicate how climate shocks could
destabilise the world order. With climate change disasters, as with

(More...)

Jane Goodall calls for global ban on wildlife trade and end to ‘destructive and greedy period of human history’

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 04:57:36 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.independent.co.uk/environment/jane-goodall-interview-animal-markets-wildlife-trafficking-a9458611.html>

"The coronavirus pandemic may have grounded Dr Jane Goodall but she is
putting her time in lockdown to good use – by calling for a global ban
on wildlife markets linked to the outbreak.

(More...)

Incredible Winners of the 17th Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 05:04:29 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://mymodernmet.com/smithsonian-magazine-photo-contest-winners/

"The winners of the 17th Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest show slices
of life from around the world. From Vietnam to Antarctica, these
photographers use their cameras to document important moments in time.

(More...)

The Shareware Scene, Part 1: The Pioneers

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 05:05:35 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.filfre.net/2020/04/the-shareware-scene-part-1-the-pioneers/

The history of shareware:

"The digital society which we’ve created over the last few decades has

(More...)

Is a world without trash possible?

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 04:29:19 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/2020/03/how-a-circular-economy-could-save-the-world-feature/>

"The “circularity gap,” as de Wit and his colleagues dubbed it when they
presented their report at the World Economic Forum in Davos in 2018, is
relatively new in human history. It dates to our industrial use of

(More...)

The environmental price of fast fashion

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 04:36:59 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.nature.com/articles/s43017-020-0039-9

"The fashion industry is facing increasing global scrutiny of its
environmentally polluting supply chain operations. Despite the widely
publicized environmental impacts, however, the industry continues to

(More...)

Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli Releases Free Backgrounds for Virtual Meetings: Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away & More

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 04:37:59 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<http://www.openculture.com/2020/04/hayao-miyazakis-studio-ghibli-releases-free-backgrounds-for-virtual-meetings.html>

"Drawn from the sweep of Studio Ghibli's history, from Nausicaä of the
Valley of the Wind to Castle in the Sky, Princess Mononoke, Spirited
Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Ponyo, Arrietty, and The Tale of the

(More...)

Post-pandemic future; epidemics and social inequality; older means kinder; ancient rain forest in antarctica; elijah and the research on conformity

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 04:44:11 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://oriana-poetry.blogspot.com/2020/04/post-pandemic-future-epidemics-and.html>

"As the economist James Meadway wrote, the correct COVID-19 response
isn’t a wartime economy – with massive upscaling of production. Rather,
we need an “anti-wartime” economy and a massive scaling back of

(More...)

28 Months Later

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 06:20:50 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://fullycharged.show/blog/28-months-later/

"The air is so much cleaner all over the world, everyone who lives in a
city, from the richest billionaire in their air conditioned penthouse
apartments to the poorest soul living in a cardboard box can sense this.

(More...)

It’s About Ethics in Comic Book Journalism: The Politics of X-Men: Red

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 06:22:18 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://comic-watch.com/news/its-about-ethics-in-comic-book-journalism-the-politics-of-x-men-red-2>

"The limited, isolated view which is fostered by network news is not the
only target of the comic. The feedback loop of social media is also
explored as one of the factors contributing to the rise of anti-mutant

(More...)

The Geopolitical Streisand Effect: The More China And The WHO Try To Silence Taiwan, The More Attention Its Success Fighting COVID-19 Gets

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 06:23:09 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20200417/18121144325/geopolitical-streisand-effect-more-china-who-try-to-silence-taiwan-more-attention-success-fighting-covid-19-gets.shtml>

"The story behind the ad and the companion TaiwanCanHelp.US website is
quite fascinating in its own right, and is reflective of the impressive
digitally-aware political movement that has really grown up in Taiwan

(More...)

Samsung Redesigned Its TV Boxes To Be Easily Converted Into Cat Houses And Entertainment Centres

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 06:23:58 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2020/04/samsung-redesigned-its-tv-boxes-to-be-easily-converted-into-cat-houses-and-entertainment-centers/>

"Taking a cue from anyone under 10 years old who can come up with
endless imaginative uses for an empty cardboard box, Samsung is now
making it easy for anyone to recycle or upcycle its TV packaging into

(More...)

Busting coronavirus myths will take more than science: lessons from an AIDS study

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 07:31:27 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/busting-coronavirus-myths-will-take-more-than-science-lessons-from-an-aids-study-136521>

"Rather than repeating accurate, but ineffective, public health messages
over HIV/AIDS, I worked with peer educators on alternative ways of
shifting attitudes.

(More...)

Earth Day at 50: A look to the past offers hope for the planet’s future

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 07:32:18 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/earth-day-at-50-a-look-to-the-past-offers-hope-for-the-planets-future-135885>

"Fifty years ago, on April 22, 1970, millions of people took to the
streets in cities and towns across the United States, giving voice to an
emerging consciousness of humanity’s impact on Earth. Protesters shut

(More...)

The Guardian view on Covid-19 and transport: walk to the future

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 07:35:07 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/apr/21/the-guardian-view-on-covid-19-and-transport-walk-to-the-future>

"It is clear that the ways we travel, and use transport, will not be the
same after the coronavirus outbreak as they were before. What we don’t
know is which changes will turn out to have been temporary, and which

(More...)

Manifest van 170 wetenschappers: het is een blunder als we niet groener uit de coronacrisis komen

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 05:36:35 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://twitter.com/jasonhickel/status/1251146508709195780

"This is remarkable: 170 Dutch academics put together a 5-point
manifesto for economic change after the C19 crisis, building on
#degrowth principles. It has gone viral in Dutch media.  In this thread

(More...)

The doomed 30-year battle to stop a pandemic

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 05:40:42 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.macleans.ca/news/world/the-doomed-30-year-battle-to-stop-a-pandemic/>

"As a distinct academic discipline, attempts to imagine and arm against
unfamiliar new infections are about three decades old. The term
“emerging viruses” was coined in 1990. Researchers and governments

(More...)

The purpose of publications in a pandemic and beyond

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 05:42:08 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://wonkhe.com/blogs/the-purpose-of-publications-in-a-pandemic-and-beyond/>

"The virus is reminding us that the purpose of scholarly communication
is not to allocate credit for career advancement, and neither is it to
keep publishers afloat. Scholarly communication is about, well, scholars

(More...)

There are 10 catastrophic threats facing humans right now, and coronavirus is only one of them

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 07:07:31 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/there-are-10-catastrophic-threats-facing-humans-right-now-and-coronavirus-is-only-one-of-them-136854>

"Four months in, this year has already been a remarkable showcase for
existential and catastrophic risk. A severe drought, devastating
bushfires, hazardous smoke, towns running dry – these events all

(More...)

Australia Takes Its First Baby Steps On the Road To A Right-To-Repair Law, With A Consultation About Tractors

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 07:08:47 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20200421/08215944338/australia-takes-first-baby-steps-road-to-right-to-repair-law-with-consultation-about-tractors.shtml>

"It is clearly vital for farmers to retain control over their own data,
while equipment manufacturers see this as a resource they can control
and exploit — for example, by aggregating data from many farms and

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6 steps towards remaking the homelessness system so it works for young people

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 07:10:02 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/6-steps-towards-remaking-the-homelessness-system-so-it-works-for-young-people-136385>

"What would happen if we were able to redesign the homelessness services
system so homelessness could be decreased and ultimately ended? Our
newly released research report sets out an agenda of practical

(More...)

Corporations prepare to sue over action to save lives as pandemic reveals trade flaws

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 06:29:21 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/corporations-prepare-to-sue-over-action-to-save-lives-as-pandemic-reveals-trade-flaws-136604>

"Global companies are positioning themselves to use little-known rules
in trade agreements such as the Comprehensive Progressive Trans-Pacific
Partnership (CPTPP) to claim millions of dollars in compensation for

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Why the focus of stimulus plans has to be construction that puts social housing first

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 06:30:33 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/why-the-focus-of-stimulus-plans-has-to-be-construction-that-puts-social-housing-first-136519>

"What sort of construction projects should the government consider for a
stimulus package? While the response so far has been to focus on
“fast-tracking” infrastructure, the current crisis has highlighted a

(More...)

National Theatre at Home: Frankenstein

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 06:30:49 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/nt-at-home-frankenstein

Via Esther Schindler, who wrote:

"The National Theater has been making some of their best plays,

(More...)

Caring for community to beat coronavirus echoes Indigenous ideas of a good life

Fri, 1 May 2020 06:47:50 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/caring-for-community-to-beat-coronavirus-echoes-indigenous-ideas-of-a-good-life-136175>

"The COVID-19 pandemic has reminded us our own well-being is intimately
connected to other people and our natural environment.

(More...)

If we can put a man on the Moon, we can save the Great Barrier Reef

Fri, 1 May 2020 06:54:03 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
<https://theconversation.com/if-we-can-put-a-man-on-the-moon-we-can-save-the-great-barrier-reef-121052>

"Scientists recently confirmed the Great Barrier Reef suffered another
serious bleaching event last summer - the third in five years. Dramatic
intervention to save the natural wonder is clearly needed.

(More...)

This Japanese Island Lifted Its Coronavirus Lockdown Too Soon and Became a Warning to the World

Fri, 1 May 2020 06:55:09 +1000

Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>

Andrew Pam
https://time.com/5826918/hokkaido-coronavirus-lockdown/

"Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido offers a grim lesson in the next
phase of the battle against COVID-19. It acted quickly and contained an
early outbreak of the coronavirus with a 3-week lockdown. But, when the

(More...)

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