Glass Wings Blog: August 2022
Australian Labor isn’t alone. Parties of the left are making a comeback
Mon, 1 Aug 2022 10:00:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australian-labor-isnt-alone-parties-of-the-left-are-making-a-comeback-185484>
"One aspect of May’s federal election has been strangely overlooked: Labor’s
win follows a pattern among the main centre-left parties in Europe and
comparable countries. Traditional social democratic and labour-based parties
(More...)
Will Australia’s new climate policy be enough to reset relations with Pacific nations?
Mon, 1 Aug 2022 22:54:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/will-australias-new-climate-policy-be-enough-to-reset-relations-with-pacific-nations-184833>
"Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is hoping his government’s more ambitious
climate policy will help reset Pacific relations when he meets with island
leaders next week.
(More...)
Letters from an American: July 10, 2022
Mon, 1 Aug 2022 22:56:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-10-2022
"The Republican economic promise since Reagan has been that cutting regulation
and taxes would create a healthy economy in which everyone who is willing to
work can thrive. But political commentator Thom Hartmann marshaled the
(More...)
It’s not nostalgia. Stranger Things is fuelling a pseudo-nostalgia of the 1980s
Mon, 1 Aug 2022 22:57:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Leeton migrants share stories of life in Australia's friendliest town with Back Roads
Mon, 1 Aug 2022 22:58:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-11/leeton-nsw-migrants-friendly-town-back-roads/101156678>
"Ken Dachi has just returned from a long-awaited trip to Kenya to visit his
mum, looking a bit different from when he left Australia.
(More...)
‘We have a new Hitler in Russia’: Pussy Riot’s Maria Alyokhina on Putin’s crimes and her years of resistance
Mon, 1 Aug 2022 23:00:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jul/11/pussy-riot-maria-alyokhina-putin-crimes-hitler-years-of-resistance>
"When Pussy Riot’s Maria Alyokhina left Russia in April this year, she went to
Iceland, essentially a political refugee. She had been repeatedly arrested
since early 2021, on specious charges – “violation of sanitary and
(More...)
Design lessons from guitar pedals
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 10:13:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://uxdesign.cc/5-design-lessons-from-guitar-pedals-782d41f07d1b
"Last weekend I played my first gig with my new band,
Lipstick Driver. It’s a
three-piece power-trio, in which I play electric guitar, so I’d spent the last
month assembling a new pedalboard.
(More...)
A new reality reverberates through Russia's music scene
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 10:14:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/2022/07/11/1109345102/a-new-reality-reverberates-through-russias-music-scene>
"The day singer-songwriter Manizha Sangin was supposed to headline a June music
festival in St. Petersburg, Russia, she went instead to a shelter housing
Ukrainian refugees. A week earlier, the festival had abruptly removed her from
(More...)
Long-COVID sufferers unable to access disability payments say they need more support
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 10:16:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-12/long-covid-limbo-disability-support/101170148>
'Jayson Cuming feels like he is living in limbo.
Mr Cuming contracted COVID-19 in June 2020 — well before he had a chance to be
(More...)
Developer turns 'future of gaming' talk into a surprise attack on convention's NFT and blockchain sponsors
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 10:18:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.pcgamer.com/developer-turns-future-of-gaming-talk-into-a-surprise-attack-on-conventions-nft-and-blockchain-sponsors/>
'Game developer Mark Venturelli received a spirited ovation at Brazil's
International Games Festival on Friday after he surprised the audience for his
"Future of Game Design" talk with a new title: "Why NFTs are a nightmare." It
(More...)
Climate change is white colonisation of the atmosphere. It’s time to tackle this entrenched racism
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 10:19:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/climate-change-is-white-colonisation-of-the-atmosphere-its-time-to-tackle-this-entrenched-racism-185579>
"“Climate change is racist”. So reads the title of a recent book by British
journalist Jeremy Williams. While this title might seem provocative, it’s long
been recognised that people of colour suffer disproportionate harms under
(More...)
You Don’t Own What You’ve Bought: Sony Removes 100s Of Movies Bought Through PS Store
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 22:34:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/07/11/you-dont-own-what-youve-bought-sony-removes-100s-of-movies-bought-through-ps-store/>
"We have done many, many posts explaining how, unfortunately, it seems the idea
of a person owning the things they’ve bought has become rather passe. While in
the age of antiquity, which existed entire tens of years ago, you used to be
(More...)
Banning artificial stone could prevent 100 lung cancers and 1,000 cases of silicosis, where dust scars the lungs
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 22:35:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/banning-artificial-stone-could-prevent-100-lung-cancers-and-1-000-cases-of-silicosis-where-dust-scars-the-lungs-182420>
"Silica dust is a very fine dust produced when products such as bricks,
concrete and pavers are cut or drilled. Artificial stone, which is used mainly
for kitchen benchtops, is a particularly potent source of silica dust.
(More...)
Is Vladimir Putin the greatest Russophobe of all?
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 22:35:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/is-vladimir-putin-the-greatest-russophobe-of-all-186642>
"No concept is more central to Vladimir Putin’s propaganda today than
“Russophobia”. Internationally and on the home front, his propagandists claim
they are fighting “Russophobes”, enemies motivated by a visceral hatred of
(More...)
Researchers trained an AI model to ‘think’ like a baby, and it suddenly excelled
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 22:36:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/researchers-trained-an-ai-model-to-think-like-a-baby-and-it-suddenly-excelled-186563>
"In a world rife with opposing views, let’s draw attention to something we can
all agree on: if I show you my pen, and then hide it behind my back, my pen
still exists – even though you can’t see it anymore. We can all agree it still
(More...)
Victorian COVID hospital admissions soar as Omicron sub-variants spread
Tue, 2 Aug 2022 22:38:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-12/victoria-covid-hospitalisations-soar-as-omicron-variant-spreads/101227492>
'Health experts say state and federal authorities are pursuing the wrong
strategies as Victoria's COVID hospital admissions have soared almost 80 per
cent over the past three weeks.
(More...)
‘Extinct’ parrots make a flying comeback in Brazil
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 11:04:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jul/10/extinct-parrots-make-a-flying-comeback-in-brazil>
"Twenty years ago, the future of the Spix’s macaw could not have looked
bleaker. The last member of this distinctive parrot species disappeared from
the wild, leaving only a few dozen birds in collectors’ cages across the globe.
(More...)
Equivalent to 1,800 tonnes of TNT: what we now know about the meteor that lit up the daytime sky above New Zealand
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 11:05:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
After Years Of Being Called An IP ‘Thief,’ China Now Out-Patenting Others… And Suing
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 11:06:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/07/11/after-years-of-being-called-an-ip-thief-china-now-out-patenting-others-and-suing/>
"It amazes me that the narrative is still out there about how China is an
“intellectual property thief” and that the US and other western nations need to
“convince China to respect intellectual property.” We heard that for decades,
(More...)
Kanye West Vocoder v Talkbox BATTLE ft. Jake Sherman & Swatkins
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 11:07:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jKB9rT3uxE
'A funk cover of Kanye West's "Love Lockdown" by Scary Pockets, Jake Sherman &
Swatkins.'
(More...)
Japanese company uses video game-style hit point badges to help employees know who needs a hand
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 11:08:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://japantoday.com/category/business/japanese-company-uses-video-game-style-hit-point-badges-to-help-employees-know-who-needs-a-hand>
"TOKYO — Japanese companies are big on the concept of “communication.” All the
meandering meetings, analog face-to-face interaction, and implicitly required
after-work meals and drinks with coworkers are, ostensibly, so that everyone in
(More...)
View a SKU
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 23:31:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://doctorow.medium.com/view-a-sku-32721d623aee
"Here’s a dirty secret of the antitrust movement: Amazon is very convenient!
It’s not just that they have a lot of inventory and make it easy to get things
(More...)
What is emotional labour - and how do we get it wrong?
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 23:31:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/what-is-emotional-labour-and-how-do-we-get-it-wrong-185773>
"The term “emotional labour” is applied to an array of home-based activities —
from keeping mental to-do lists, to remembering to call your in-laws on their
birthdays. Some advocate the need to teach boys emotional labour, or identify
(More...)
Times have changed: why the environment minister is being forced to reconsider climate-related impacts of pending fossil fuel approvals
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 23:32:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/times-have-changed-why-the-environment-minister-is-being-forced-to-reconsider-climate-related-impacts-of-pending-fossil-fuel-approvals-186715>
"A non-profit group is imploring the new federal environment minister Tanya
Plibersek to consider the climate change impacts of 19 fossil fuel projects
currently pending approval, drawing on a rarely used legal provision that will
(More...)
A dystopian or utopian future? Claire G. Coleman’s new novel Enclave imagines both
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 23:34:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-dystopian-or-utopian-future-claire-g-colemans-new-novel-enclave-imagines-both-182859>
"
Review: Enclave – Claire G. Coleman (Hachette)
I was reading Noongar author Claire G. Coleman’s third novel,
Enclave, a few
(More...)
Nearly $2tn of damage inflicted on other countries by US emissions
Wed, 3 Aug 2022 23:35:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jul/12/us-carbon-emissions-greenhouse-gases-climate-crisis>
"The US has inflicted more than $1.9tn in damage to other countries from the
effects of its greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new analysis that has
provided the first measurement of nations’ liability in stoking the climate
(More...)
Victoria just got a new zoo and it’s twice as large as Melbourne Zoo
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 10:32:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://beat.com.au/victoria-just-got-a-new-zoo-and-its-twice-as-large-as-melbourne-zoo/>
"A new zoo has been announced for Victoria and it's two-and-a-half times as
large as Melbourne Zoo.
(More...)
Want Fewer Abortions? Legalize Them
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 10:33:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/want-fewer-abortions-legalize-them/
"Even before the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, conservative states
had passed laws to tighten restrictions on abortion. Last September, Florida
governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill banning abortions after 15 weeks with no
(More...)
Australia’s wellbeing budget: what we can – and can’t – learn from NZ
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 10:34:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australias-wellbeing-budget-what-we-can-and-cant-learn-from-nz-186725>
"Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers has confirmed Australia will follow Aotearoa
New Zealand’s example and put wellbeing at the centre of the national budget.
(More...)
Guilt, shame, dissatisfaction: workers and customers on the gig economy (and how to make it better)
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 10:34:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/guilt-shame-dissatisfaction-workers-and-customers-on-the-gig-economy-and-how-to-make-it-better-185502>
"The gig economy is in trouble. Rideshare drivers are cancelling in droves.
Wait times for food delivery are ballooning out and driver shortages are
leading to food waste.
(More...)
This Underwater Canyon Could Become America’s Newest Marine Sanctuary
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 10:36:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/underwater-canyon-could-become-americas-newest-marine-sanctuary-180980248/>
"Roughly 100 miles off the coast of New York and New Jersey, sperm whales and
sea turtles swim gracefully beneath the waves. Deep-sea corals provide shelter
for octopuses, sea stars, bivalves and many other colorful aquatic life forms.
(More...)
20 years on, the International Criminal Court is doing more good than its critics claim
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 23:55:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/20-years-on-the-international-criminal-court-is-doing-more-good-than-its-critics-claim-186382>
"When the International Criminal Court began operating 20 years ago this month,
its existence reflected a unique historical and political epoch. Buoyed by the
successful creation of war-crimes tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and
(More...)
The unconscionable prosecution of Bernard Collaery was an assault on the values Australia holds dear
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 23:56:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
‘Why are you so scared of breasts?’: how Florence Pugh’s sheer Valentino gown provoked a discussion about misogyny and women’s bodies
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 23:57:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-are-you-so-scared-of-breasts-how-florence-pughs-sheer-valentino-gown-provoked-a-discussion-about-misogyny-and-womens-bodies-186746>
"Last Friday, actor Florence Pugh attended the Fall/Winter 2022 Valentino
couture show in Rome. She wore a frothy pink gown that, being sheer, exposed
her breasts. Posting photos of herself on Instagram looking radiant at the
(More...)
We studied how the Antarctic ice sheet advanced and retreated over 10,000 years. It holds warnings for the future
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 23:58:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-studied-how-the-antarctic-ice-sheet-advanced-and-retreated-over-10-000-years-it-holds-warnings-for-the-future-185505>
"Alarming stories from Antarctica are now more frequent than ever; the ice
surface is melting, floating ice shelves are collapsing and glaciers are
flowing faster into the ocean.
(More...)
There are 94 million craters on Mars. Scientists found the one this meteorite called home
Thu, 4 Aug 2022 23:59:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/there-are-94-million-craters-on-mars-scientists-found-the-one-this-meteorite-called-home-186812>
"In 2011, a small meteorite was found in the Sahara Desert. Designated
Northwest Africa (NWA) 7034 or “Black Beauty”, the blackened chunk of volcanic
crystal turned out to be a little piece of Mars, flung into space by an
(More...)
What I Learned from Buying a Tesla? Consumer Ignorance about EVs
Fri, 5 Aug 2022 11:52:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/@feedyourhead411/what-i-learned-from-buying-a-tesla-consumer-ignorance-about-evs-640ccce57027>
"I recently bought a Tesla Model 3. So did about a quarter of a million other
people in the U.S. alone. With all those new owners driving around in what is
undeniably a very different kind of car, there are sure to be hundreds of blogs
(More...)
Not just ramps and doorways – disability housing is about choosing where, how and who you live with
Fri, 5 Aug 2022 11:53:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/not-just-ramps-and-doorways-disability-housing-is-about-choosing-where-how-and-who-you-live-with-183523>
"Home ownership among young people is falling sharply, while renters face
worrying insecurity. Nowhere is this more pronounced than for the 4.4 million
Australians living with a disability and, in particular, the 660,000 plus
(More...)
‘Have you recently had an abortion?’ Australian transiting through US questioned then deported
Fri, 5 Aug 2022 11:55:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jul/13/have-you-recently-had-an-abortion-australian-transiting-through-us-questioned-then-deported>
"An Australian woman who planned to house-sit in Canada during a holiday has
said she was detained, fingerprinted, interrogated about her abortion history
and quickly deported during a stopover in the US.
(More...)
A Personal Apology to Young Americans for Failing to Stop Ronald Reagan
Fri, 5 Aug 2022 11:57:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/07/13/personal-apology-young-americans-failing-stop-ronald-reagan>
"Dear millennials: back in the 1980s a lot of us worked like hell to try to
stop the Reagan revolution. We failed. This may be our last chance to save
American democracy and the American middle-class.
(More...)
We lost the plot on COVID messaging – now governments will have to be bold to get us back on track
Fri, 5 Aug 2022 11:57:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-lost-the-plot-on-covid-messaging-now-governments-will-have-to-be-bold-to-get-us-back-on-track-186732>
"Overall, Australian governments managed the first two years of the COVID
pandemic well. Border closures and state actions such as lockdowns averted
18,000 deaths in 2020 and 2021.
(More...)
Finance caused the fall of Rome
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 01:38:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://doctorow.medium.com/finance-caused-the-fall-of-rome-fd091fa02973>
"It’s hard to overstate the impact that David Graeber’s 2012 blockbuster
Debt:
The First Five Thousand Years had on society; it’s a truly magesterial history
of the way that debt — and debt forgiveness — played in the establishment of
(More...)
Elon Musk Is Completely Wrong About Overpopulation
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 01:39:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://survivingtomorrow.org/elon-musk-is-completely-wrong-about-overpopulation-1efbc85e753d>
"The money-grifting meme-king is at it again.
Not content to just grab taxpayer money by the billions, evade taxes, shill
(More...)
The Uber files: leaked documents reveal a strategy of chaos – has anything changed?
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 01:40:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-uber-files-leaked-documents-reveal-a-strategy-of-chaos-has-anything-changed-186770>
"Uber has had a controversial history since its founding in 2009, from violent
conflicts among drivers to a secret software allegedly used to evade law
enforcement. Now, a leak of over 124,000 documents dubbed the Uber files shows
(More...)
Two experts break down the James Webb Space Telescope’s first images, and explain what we’ve already learnt
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 01:41:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/two-experts-break-down-the-james-webb-space-telescopes-first-images-and-explain-what-weve-already-learnt-186738>
"Today we saw the release of the first batch of images taken by the James Webb
Space Telescope. This is something we have both been waiting on for nearly 25
years. Back in those days, we were analysing the first Hubble images of the
(More...)
Albanese just laid out a radical new vision for Australia in the region: clean energy exporter and green manufacturer
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 01:42:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/albanese-just-laid-out-a-radical-new-vision-for-australia-in-the-region-clean-energy-exporter-and-green-manufacturer-186815>
"Gone are the days when the federal government would cheer on Australia’s
fossil fuel exports to the exclusion of all else, while seemingly doing
everything in its power to hold back the switch to renewables.
(More...)
Nintendo Japan Says It Recognises Same-Sex Marriages, Even Though Japan Doesn't
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 13:32:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://kotaku.com/nintendo-japan-same-sex-marriage-gay-law-ruling-1849171499>
"Nintendo issued an update on the company’s corporate social responsibility
(CSR) initiatives yesterday, and while this is normally a pretty stale kind of
thing to read through as a fan, this particular publication had one thing that
(More...)
The living world above our heads: how city trees help shape biodiversity
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 13:35:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-living-world-above-our-heads-how-city-trees-help-shape-biodiversity-182075>
"Trees and cities are not rivals – at least, no longer entirely. The ambitious
tree-planting programmes we have witnessed in cities over the past years are
proof of urban dwellers’ passion for them.
(More...)
‘The ultimate invader’: high-tech tool promises scientists an edge over the cane toad scourge
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 13:39:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-ultimate-invader-high-tech-tool-promises-scientists-an-edge-over-the-cane-toad-scourge-186542>
"Cane toads are invasive frogs that threaten the survival of several Australian
wildlife species. Scientists and conservation managers have long grappled with
how to stop the toad’s march across the continent.
(More...)
We have international laws to stop plastic pollution from fishing vessels now. Why are we not enforcing them?
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 13:40:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-have-international-laws-to-stop-plastic-pollution-from-fishing-vessels-now-why-are-we-not-enforcing-them-185951>
"Ocean plastic pollution was a focus at the recent UN oceans conference, which
issued a declaration in support of an earlier decision by the UN Environment
Assembly to start negotiations for a global plastics treaty.
(More...)
Boris Johnson’s ignominious end: the difference between ‘big tent’ politics and personalised populism
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 13:43:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/boris-johnsons-ignominious-end-the-difference-between-big-tent-politics-and-personalised-populism-186941>
"Following an excruciating few days when many of his colleagues left his
cabinet over yet another scandal, Boris Johnson finally resigned on July 7 as
leader of the Conservative party. As the UK is a parliamentary democracy, he
(More...)
Shovel-Ready
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 23:15:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://scribe.rip/shovel-ready-3433e0268c2e
"America has a monopoly problem. The list of heavily concentrated industries
grows longer by the day, even as the number of companies operating in each
sector shrinks: pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical benefit managers, health
(More...)
Space agriculture boldly grows food where no one has grown before
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 23:16:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/space-agriculture-boldly-grows-food-where-no-one-has-grown-before-184818>
"Whether to spend money on outer space exploration or to apply it to solve
serious problems on Earth, like climate change and food shortages, is a
contentious debate. But one argument in favour of space exploration highlights
(More...)
The 2019–2020 Australian forest fires are a harbinger of decreased prescribed burning effectiveness under rising extreme conditions
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 23:18:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-15262-y
"There is an imperative for fire agencies to quantify the potential for
prescribed burning to mitigate risk to life, property and environmental values
while facing changing climates. The 2019–2020 Black Summer fires in eastern
(More...)
Sri Lanka’s crisis is not just about the economy, but a long history of discrimination against minority groups
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 23:19:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sri-lankas-crisis-is-not-just-about-the-economy-but-a-long-history-of-discrimination-against-minority-groups-186747>
"Sri Lanka is in the grip of an economic, political and humanitarian crisis.
In a remarkable display of anger on Saturday, thousands of protesters
(More...)
Finally A Normal No-Frills Electric Car! BYD ATTO 3
Sat, 6 Aug 2022 23:19:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pKRFCf93Xs
"Our man in China, Elliot Richards takes a look at a delightfully simple and
straightforward new EV: The BYD Atto. This no-nonsense family car prioritises
practicality and familiarity over high-tech features and posh materials, as so
(More...)
Masks for COVID: Updating the evidence
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 12:57:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.fast.ai/2022/07/04/updated-masks-evidence/
"These are notes I took whilst preparing a paper on mask efficacy from Nov 2021
to Jan 2022. In the end, I gave up on the paper, because I felt like people had
given up on masks, so there wasn’t much point in finishing it. I’ve decided to
(More...)
RATs for flu exist – should we be self-testing for that too?
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 12:57:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/rats-for-flu-exist-should-we-be-self-testing-for-that-too-185602>
"Flu season has begun uncharacteristically early this year, and so far we’ve
seen around 187,000 laboratory-confirmed cases, 1,323 hospitalisations, and 113
deaths.
(More...)
Sendit, Yolo, NGL: anonymous social apps are taking over once more, but they aren’t without risks
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 12:58:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sendit-yolo-ngl-anonymous-social-apps-are-taking-over-once-more-but-they-arent-without-risks-186647>
"Have you ever told a stranger a secret about yourself online? Did you feel a
certain kind of freedom doing so, specifically because the context was removed
from your everyday life? Personal disclosure and anonymity have long been a
(More...)
Grattan on Friday: Albanese needs to step up (and mask up) to help create a new mindset to meet the COVID crisis
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 12:59:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-albanese-needs-to-step-up-and-mask-up-to-help-create-a-new-mindset-to-meet-the-covid-crisis-18702>
"Anthony Albanese received his fourth COVID jab this week. A commendable
example to the community, now that eligibility for the “winter shot” has been
widened.
(More...)
Friday essay: Simon During on the demoralisation of the humanities, and what can be done about it
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 13:00:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-simon-during-on-the-demoralisation-of-the-humanities-and-what-can-be-done-about-it-186111>
"What state are the Australian academic humanities in? Simple. They’re
demoralised. How can I tell? The signs are everywhere, but let’s just say that
whenever humanities academics get together these days, conversations inevitably
(More...)
How Many Variants And Deaths Are We Willing To Accept, Before We Protect The Whole World?
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 23:22:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.forbes.com/sites/madhukarpai/2022/07/12/how-many-variants-and-deaths-are-we-willing-to-accept-before-we-protect-the-whole-world/?sh=15b34ad92233>
"The Covid-19 pandemic is far from over. As I write this, I am dealing with my
own Covid-19 illness and fatigue. I am not alone. Millions of people worldwide
are getting infected or re-infected with highly transmissible Omicron
(More...)
How do we teach young people about climate change? We can start with this comic
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 23:23:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-do-we-teach-young-people-about-climate-change-we-can-start-with-this-comic-186740>
"We know young people are “angry, frustrated and scared” about climate change.
And they want to do more to stop it.
(More...)
Breakthrough in gas separation and storage could fast-track shift to green hydrogen and significantly cut global energy use
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 23:24:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/breakthrough-in-gas-separation-and-storage-could-fast-track-shift-to-green-hydrogen-and-significantly-cut-global-energy-use-186644>
"In 2016, experts writing in
Nature listed seven breakthroughs in how we
process chemicals that could change the world for the better. We believe we’ve
just ticked one of those off the list.
(More...)
Louise Hardman's Shruder invention recycles plastic cleaned from ocean
Sun, 7 Aug 2022 23:26:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-15/louise-hardman-shruder-invention-process-ocean-plastics/101119148>
'Removing plastic pollution from waterways isn't a new concept, but
commoditising the recovered plastics is.
(More...)
This Arkansas school turned solar savings into better teacher pay
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 11:08:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://energynews.us/2020/10/16/this-arkansas-school-turned-solar-savings-into-better-teacher-pay/>
"In Batesville, Arkansas, just 17 miles west of the state’s largest coal-fired
power plant, a solar array at the local high school is having an unconventional
impact: boosting teachers’ pay.
(More...)
Things you're allowed to do
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 11:09:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://milan.cvitkovic.net/writing/things_youre_allowed_to_do/
"This is a list of things you’re allowed to do that you thought you couldn’t,
or didn’t even know you could.
(More...)
On the Beating of Children and Other Apparently Fine Things
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 11:11:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.atvbt.com/kids/
"You rise before dawn to make it on time to your government-mandated job.
Despite having a medical condition that means you need significantly more sleep
than average, compulsory work starts early and it’s still dark out when you
(More...)
Here’s a simple way to stop governments giving jobs to mates
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 11:12:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/heres-a-simple-way-to-stop-governments-giving-jobs-to-mates-186816>
"Handing out a cushy job to a political mate might seem harmless – after all,
everyone does it, right? – but the politicisation of public appointments has
real, pervasive consequences for Australian democracy. Increasingly, many
(More...)
Why is tech giant Apple trying to teach our teachers?
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 11:13:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-is-tech-giant-apple-trying-to-teach-our-teachers-186752>
"Apple products are already a central part of our lives in so many ways. We use
them to work, socialise, monitor our heart rates, pay for things and watch TV.
(More...)
The fascinating world of Voronoi diagrams
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 23:16:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://towardsdatascience.com/the-fascinating-world-of-voronoi-diagrams-da8fc700fa1b>
"Voronoi diagrams (also known as
Dirichlet tesselation or
Thiessen
polygons) are everywhere in nature. You have encountered them thousands of
times, but maybe did not call it this way. Voronoi diagram are simple, yet they
(More...)
We Must Reclaim Solarpunk from Authoritarian Regimes
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 23:18:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/@hanzifreinacht/we-must-reclaim-solarpunk-from-authoritarian-regimes-73d4d4f6833d>
"Without an aesthetic program, it is impossible to truly recreate today’s
society in desired directions. We need more than just ideas of the things we
wish to avoid (ecological disaster, pandemics, famine, wars, existential risks
(More...)
Inside a radical new project to democratize AI
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 23:20:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/07/12/1055817/inside-a-radical-new-project-to-democratize-ai/>
"BLOOM was created over the last year by over 1,000 volunteer researchers in a
project called BigScience, which was coordinated by AI startup Hugging Face
using funding from the French government. It officially launched on July 12.
(More...)
A cosmic time machine: how the James Webb Space Telescope lets us see the first galaxies in the universe
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 23:21:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-cosmic-time-machine-how-the-james-webb-space-telescope-lets-us-see-the-first-galaxies-in-the-universe-187015>
"It has been an exciting week with the release of breathtaking photos of our
Universe by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Images such as the one below
give us a chance to see faint distant galaxies as they were more than 13
(More...)
How Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius is refocusing for an electric future
Mon, 8 Aug 2022 23:22:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theverge.com/23172839/mercedes-benz-ceo-ola-kallenius-electric-vehicles-self-driving-luxury-tech-g-class>
"Mercedes-BenzMercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius became CEO in 2019 but has been
working for Mercedes since 1993 in almost every part of the company. During
that period, Mercedes spent time getting a lot bigger; the company famously
(More...)
Was Tricia the elephant happy? Experts on the ethics of keeping such big, roaming creatures in captivity
Tue, 9 Aug 2022 23:17:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/was-tricia-the-elephant-happy-experts-on-the-ethics-of-keeping-such-big-roaming-creatures-in-captivity-187016>
"The beloved Asian elephant Tricia died at Perth Zoo this month at the ripe old
age of 65, making her one of the world’s oldest elephants.
(More...)
Australia’s special visa program for Ukrainians to end, despite war raging on
Tue, 9 Aug 2022 23:18:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australias-special-visa-program-for-ukrainians-to-end-despite-war-raging-on-186829>
"Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Ukraine this month,
promising an extra A$100 million in military aid and pledging to help the
country for “as long as it takes”.
(More...)
A Weird, Wonderful Conversation With Kim Stanley Robinson
Tue, 9 Aug 2022 23:20:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/15/opinion/ezra-klein-podcast-kim-stanley-robinson.html>
"Kim Stanley Robinson is one of the great living science fiction writers and
one of the most astute observers of how planets look, feel and work. His Mars
Trilogy imagined what it might be like for humans to settle on the red planet.
(More...)
Cherokee tribe supports renaming Clingmans Dome in Smoky Mountains National Park
Tue, 9 Aug 2022 23:21:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/2022/07/17/1111923413/cherokee-tribe-rename-smoky-mountains-national-park-clingmans-dome>
"The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Council passed a resolution
Thursday in support of changing the name of the highest peak in Great Smoky
Mountains National Park: Clingmans Dome.
(More...)
We're Living Through The Biggest Drop in Childhood Vaccination Rates in 30 Years
Tue, 9 Aug 2022 23:25:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/we-re-living-through-the-biggest-drop-in-childhood-vaccination-rates-in-30-years>
'Increased misinformation and the disruption of global supply chains due to
COVID-19 are behind the biggest sustained drop in childhood vaccinations in
three decades, a UN report said.
(More...)
How Commonwealth universities profited from Indigenous dispossession through land grants
Wed, 10 Aug 2022 11:38:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-commonwealth-universities-profited-from-indigenous-dispossession-through-land-grants-185010>
"Animated by social movements such as #RhodesMustFall and #BlackLivesMatter,
universities today have entered a period of critical self-reflection on their
histories.
(More...)
Mask mandates – will we only act on public health advice if someone makes us?
Wed, 10 Aug 2022 11:38:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/mask-mandates-will-we-only-act-on-public-health-advice-if-someone-makes-us-186914>
"Back in mid 2020, it was suggested mask use was similar to seat belt wearing
in cars. Not everyone wore a seat belt start straight away, but now it’s
unheard of to get into a car and not put it on.
(More...)
Vegetarian diets may be better for the planet – but the Mediterranean diet is the one omnivores will actually adopt
Wed, 10 Aug 2022 11:39:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Electric Seagliders Could Enable Short-Haul Emissions-Free Air Travel This Decade
Wed, 10 Aug 2022 11:41:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://singularityhub.com/2022/07/18/electric-seagliders-could-enable-short-haul-emissions-free-air-travel-this-decade/>
"Electrifying aviation could help tackle the sector’s serious emissions
problems, but battery-powered passenger jets are still some way off.
All-electric seagliders that skim the waves like pelicans could hit the market
(More...)
This is Australia’s most important report on the environment’s deteriorating health. We present its grim findings
Wed, 10 Aug 2022 11:41:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/this-is-australias-most-important-report-on-the-environments-deteriorating-health-we-present-its-grim-findings-186131>
"Climate change is exacerbating pressures on every Australian ecosystem and
Australia now has more foreign plant species than native, according to the
highly anticipated
State of the Environment Report released today.
(More...)
Pacific Islands are back on the map, and climate action is not negotiable for would-be allies
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 02:03:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/pacific-islands-are-back-on-the-map-and-climate-action-is-not-negotiable-for-would-be-allies-187086>
"This year’s Pacific Islands Forum marked the beginning of a more dangerous era
as Pacific leaders tried to find common responses to both the climate crisis
and sharpening geostrategic competition.
(More...)
‘A weird dinging sound that everyone dreads’: what rapid deliveries mean for supermarket workers
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 02:03:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-weird-dinging-sound-that-everyone-dreads-what-rapid-deliveries-mean-for-supermarket-workers-185960>
"Online grocery shopping has boomed since the pandemic began in 2020, with
Woolworths and Coles steadily expanding their home-delivery offerings. Rapid
delivery is the latest frontier.
(More...)
There’s a smart way to push Labor harder on emissions cuts – without reigniting the climate wars
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 02:04:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/theres-a-smart-way-to-push-labor-harder-on-emissions-cuts-without-reigniting-the-climate-wars-187155>
"The fate of Labor’s 2030 climate policy hangs in the balance as the Greens and
other climate-conscious crossbenchers this week consider pushing the government
harder on emissions reduction.
(More...)
While Australians line up for COVID boosters, low vaccination rates in poor countries continue to cost lives
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 02:05:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/while-australians-line-up-for-covid-boosters-low-vaccination-rates-in-poor-countries-continue-to-cost-lives-186736>
"Two and a half years into the pandemic, more than 12 billion COVID-19 vaccine
doses have been administered worldwide, and more than 5 million are being
administered each day. People in many high-income countries, including
(More...)
‘That patch of bush is gone, and so are the birds’: a scientist reacts to the State of the Environment report
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 02:06:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/that-patch-of-bush-is-gone-and-so-are-the-birds-a-scientist-reacts-to-the-state-of-the-environment-report-186135>
"Australia’s
State of the Environment Report was finally released today – and
its findings are a staggering picture of loss and devastation.
(More...)
The downside of digital transformation: why organisations must allow for those who can’t or won’t move online
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:23:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-downside-of-digital-transformation-why-organisations-must-allow-for-those-who-cant-or-wont-move-online-186905>
"We hear the phrase “digital transformation” a lot these days. It’s often used
to describe the process of replacing functions and services that were once done
face-to-face by human beings with online interactions that are faster, more
(More...)
A heated steering wheel for $20 a month? What’s driving the subscriptions economy
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:23:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-heated-steering-wheel-for-20-a-month-whats-driving-the-subscriptions-economy-186913>
"From gym memberships to music and movies, to razors, toilet paper, meal kits
and clothes, there’s seemingly no place the subscription economy can’t go.
(More...)
World's first 'sand battery' can store heat at 500C for months at a time. Could it work in Australia?
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:24:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
What’s behind all the book banning?
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:27:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.futurity.org/book-banning-banned-books-2768792-2/
"Efforts to ban books in the United States have surged at a rate the American
Library Association calls “unprecedented,” with attempts currently at their
highest level since the organization began tracking them 20 years ago.
(More...)
How Steam changed Japan's doujin games from elusive treasures to international hits
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:28:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.pcgamer.com/how-steam-changed-japans-doujin-games-from-elusive-treasures-to-international-hits/>
"It's August 16th, 2008. The 11th Touhou game,
Subterranean Animism, releases
today at Comiket, trying to buy a copy is an intense one. People queue in the
hot sun for hours before being crammed into the Tokyo exhibition hall's
(More...)
The 970-HA-JOKES Payphone Project
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 00:14:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/the-970-ha-jokes-payphone-project/>
"It all started because they moved the parking meters around my neighborhood.
When our city (Boulder) got new pay stations, they left behind concrete pads
with metal mount points.
(More...)
Screen Australia Is Funding All 31 Of These Aussie-Made Games
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 00:16:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.kotaku.com.au/2022/07/screen-australia-is-funding-all-31-of-these-aussie-made-games/>
"Remember that fund for small developers that Screen Australia announced not
too long ago? Well, the absolute madmen are putting it into action.
(More...)
‘Bad and getting worse’: Labor promises law reform for Australia’s environment. Here’s what you need to know
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 00:17:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/bad-and-getting-worse-labor-promises-law-reform-for-australias-environment-heres-what-you-need-to-know-186562>
"Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek acknowledges “it’s time to
change” after the State of the Environment report revealed a bleak picture of
Australia’s natural places.
(More...)
The Tiny Australian Territory That Avoided the Global Energy Crisis
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 00:18:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/australian-capital-territory-renewables-global-energy-crisis/>
"The “Canberra bubble” is something of a derisive term in Australia, referring
to the niche interests of politicians, lobbyists and media insiders in the
country’s capital — the equivalent of being entrenched “inside the Beltway” of
(More...)
It was long thought these fossils came from an eagle. Turns out they belong to the only known vulture species from Australia
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 00:19:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/it-was-long-thought-these-fossils-came-from-an-eagle-turns-out-they-belong-to-the-only-known-vulture-species-from-australia-187017>
"In 1905, a fragment of a fossil wing bone discovered near the Kalamurina
Homestead, South Australia, was described as an extinct eagle and named
Taphaetus lacertosus, meaning “powerful grave eagle”.
(More...)
Fish leather is here, it’s sustainable – and it’s made from invasive species to boot
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:32:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jun/12/fish-leather-lionfish-sustainable-invasive-species>
"Aarav Chavda has been diving off the coast of Florida for years. Each time he
became increasingly depressed by the ever-growing void, as colourful species of
fish and coral reefs continued to disappear.
(More...)
Traditional Cheesemaking Is Restoring Bosnia’s Landscapes and Livelihoods
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:34:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/cheese-making-revitalizes-bosnia-landscape-and-economy/>
"It’s been a rough hundred years or so for Bosnia and Herzegovina. After the
global depression of the late 1920s and 1930s came the Second World War, then
more than 40 years of single-party rule under a Socialist government, then the
(More...)
The Address of the Future
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:36:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/the-address-of-the-future/
"Every time college student Aniket Samudra has to fill out a form, the address
section stumps him. House number, street name, the name of his building — none
of these things apply to him. Which isn’t to say that Samudra doesn’t have a
(More...)
‘Wellbeing’. It’s why Labor’s first budget will have more rigour than any before it
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:38:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/wellbeing-its-why-labors-first-budget-will-have-more-rigour-than-any-before-it-187160>
"What if the most important thing in Jim Chalmers’ first budget is the thing
his critics are writing off as a gimmick?
(More...)
Reinfection will be part of the pandemic for months to come. Each repeat illness raises the risk of long COVID
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:40:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/reinfection-will-be-part-of-the-pandemic-for-months-to-come-each-repeat-illness-raises-the-risk-of-long-covid-186733>
"The latest Omicron variant BA.5 is fast becoming dominant worldwide, including
in New Zealand and Australia. As it continues to surge, reinfection will become
increasingly common and this in turn means more people will develop long COVID.
(More...)
The New York Public Library is giving away 500,000 books for free
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 01:04:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.timeout.com/newyork/news/the-new-york-public-library-is-giving-away-500-000-books-for-free-060922>
"The New York Public Library, which serves the Bronx, Manhattan and Staten
Island, is launching a super-exciting Summer at the Library initiative that
includes a slew of free programs sure to entice readers and non-readers alike.
(More...)
As US Road Deaths Rise, France Is Safer Than Ever. Why?
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 01:06:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-06-16/why-france-offers-lessons-for-road-safety-in-the-us>
"Traffic deaths in the US surged at an annual rate of 10.5% last year, the
fastest pace on record, to an estimated 42,915 fatalities. Pedestrians are at
particular risk; 2021 saw an estimated 7,265 deaths among those on foot, the
(More...)
What’s climate got to do with electoral reform? More than you might think
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 01:06:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
3 lessons from Australia’s ‘climate wars’ and how we can finally achieve better climate policy
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 01:07:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/3-lessons-from-australias-climate-wars-and-how-we-can-finally-achieve-better-climate-policy-187000>
"Last week, two influential environmental groups warned the Greens not to
stymie progress on Australia’s climate policy. In an unusual intervention,
Greenpeace and the Australian Conservation Foundation urged the Greens to “play
(More...)
OS-Climate unleashes power of open source to develop data and tools required to meet the Paris climate goals
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 01:09:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://linuxfoundation.org/press-release/os-climate-unleashes-power-of-open-source-to-develop-data-and-tools-required-to-meet-the-paris-climate-goals/>
"New York 20 July 2022 – Linux Foundation’s
OS-Climate, the non-profit
organization providing open source data and software tools to enable the global
shift to climate-aligned finance and investing, has today released for public
(More...)
Where Will You Get Your Water?
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 19:12:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/climate-conscious/where-will-you-get-your-water-8472c9370a37>
"Until the climate crisis and overpopulation, we used to take water for
granted. In recent decades, few thought about its long journey from the sea to
clouds, rain, and watersheds. Except for desert regions with vast engineering
(More...)
British Documentarian Says Trump’s Delusions Are ‘Terrifying’
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 19:12:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/my-side-of-the-aisle/british-documentarian-says-trumps-delusions-are-terrifying-81ac2271a244>
"Most documentarians want to focus their camera on a story. But British
documentarian Alex Holder has become part of the story. Holder was granted
access to former President Donald Trump’s family in the final days of the Trump
(More...)
Giving out flowers on TikTok: is this a ‘random act of kindness’ or just benevolent ageism?
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 19:13:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/giving-out-flowers-on-tiktok-is-this-a-random-act-of-kindness-or-just-benevolent-ageism-187064>
"In June, 22-year-old Harrison Pawluk filmed himself staging a “random act of
kindness”, giving a bunch of flowers to an older woman sitting alone in a
Melbourne food court.
(More...)
Masks are ‘strongly suggested’ by health authorities as the winter COVID wave hits. Here’s how effective they are
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 19:14:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
The UK just hit 40℃ for the first time. It’s a stark reminder of the deadly heat awaiting Australia
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 19:15:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-uk-just-hit-40-for-the-first-time-its-a-stark-reminder-of-the-deadly-heat-awaiting-australia-187347>
"A severe heatwave in Western Europe is shattering temperature records –
including in the United Kingdom, where temperatures exceeded 40℃ on Tuesday for
the first time on record.
(More...)
Decolonization and Imperial Collapse
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 03:17:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://nadinbrzezinski.medium.com/decolonization-and-imperial-collapse-8e7f01607707>
"One of the consequences of this war will be the breakup of the Russian
Federation. In fact, the process may already be starting. One signal is the
possible attempt on the life of Nikolai Patrushev. Perhaps we had a coup
(More...)
As The Chinese Government Ramps Up Oppression, Citizens Are Pushing Back
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 03:18:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/07/20/as-the-chinese-government-ramps-up-oppression-citizens-are-pushing-back/>
"The Chinese government often seems like an unstoppable force of evil. Perhaps
the word “seems” needs to be removed from the previous sentence. The government
seems all too capable of keeping a few billion people in line, strongly
(More...)
View from The Hill: The challenge of ‘grey’ corruption and creating a culture of integrity
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 03:19:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-the-challenge-of-grey-corruption-and-creating-a-culture-of-integrity-187375>
"We talk a lot about chasing down corrupt behaviour and holding wrongdoers to
account. As we should. This is what the debate about a national integrity
commission has been all about.
(More...)
Yes, the state of the environment is grim, but you can make a difference, right in your own neighbourhoood
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 03:21:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/yes-the-state-of-the-environment-is-grim-but-you-can-make-a-difference-right-in-your-own-neighbourhoood-187259>
"The newly released
State of the Environment report paints a predictably grim
picture. Species are in decline, ecosystems are at breaking point, and threats
abound. For many of us, it can feel like a problem that’s too big, too complex
(More...)
Woman Saves 850 Senior Dogs And They Have Their Own Bedrooms | The Dodo Heroes
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 03:22:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjHqQoMARR8
"Whispering Willows Senior Dog Sanctuary is a non-profit hospice for dogs.
Valerie has rescued over 850 dogs from neglect, homelessness and losing an
owner. The dogs are not adoptable and this is their forever home."
(More...)
Does Australia’s harsh asylum seeker policy matter to the average Australian? It depends whether they have to get off the couch
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 11:51:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/does-australias-harsh-asylum-seeker-policy-matter-to-the-average-australian-it-depends-whether-they-have-to-get-off-the-couch-180779>
"The Albanese government’s turnback of a Sri Lankan asylum seeker vessel just a
day after being sworn in suggests it’s business as usual for Australia’s
treatment of arrivals by boat.
(More...)
Depression is probably not caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain – new study
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 11:52:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/depression-is-probably-not-caused-by-a-chemical-imbalance-in-the-brain-new-study-186672>
"For three decades, people have been deluged with information suggesting that
depression is caused by a “chemical imbalance” in the brain – namely an
imbalance of a brain chemical called serotonin. However, our latest research
(More...)
Publishers vs the Internet Archive: why the world’s biggest online library is in court over digital book lending
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 11:59:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Deconstructing the cult of Winston Churchill: racism, deification and nostalgia for empire
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 12:00:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/deconstructing-the-cult-of-winston-churchill-racism-deification-and-nostalgia-for-empire-185589>
Review: Winston Churchill: His Times, His Crimes - Tariq Ali (Verso)
"Only one prime minister is honoured with a statue on the grounds of the
(More...)
What do TikTok, Bunnings, eBay and Netflix have in common? They’re all hyper-collectors
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 12:01:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/what-do-tiktok-bunnings-ebay-and-netflix-have-in-common-theyre-all-hyper-collectors-187274>
"You walk into a shopping centre to buy some groceries. Without your knowledge,
an electronic scan of your face is taken by in-store surveillance cameras and
stored in an online database. Each time you return to that store, your
(More...)
Why sexual and reproductive law for east African countries is being resisted
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 19:18:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-sexual-and-reproductive-law-for-east-african-countries-is-being-resisted-186954>
"Six of the countries of the East African Community – Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda,
South Sudan, Uganda and Tanzania – recently concluded public hearings on a new
sexual and reproductive health bill. Proponents of the bill argue that it will
(More...)
How trade regulations may be opening up a new era of sustainable growth in the Global South
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 19:19:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-trade-regulations-may-be-opening-up-a-new-era-of-sustainable-growth-in-the-global-south-182070>
"You may or may not have noticed from the headlines of the past years: in our
interconnected world the food systems are increasingly under pressure.
(More...)
Playing on good feelings: when ‘eudaimonic’ social media goes bad
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 19:21:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/playing-on-good-feelings-when-eudaimonic-social-media-goes-bad-187074>
"Twenty-something Melburnian Harrison Pawluck could be doing worse things than
building a TikTok audience through “random acts of kindness”.
(More...)
How record-setting heat waves in cities across UK, US and mainland Europe could punish economies already reeling from inflation
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 19:22:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-record-setting-heat-waves-in-cities-across-uk-us-and-mainland-europe-could-punish-economies-already-reeling-from-inflation-187333>
"Hundreds of millions of people struggled to keep cool amid a sweltering summer
heat wave as cities across the U.S. and mainland Europe experienced record-high
temperatures. In the U.K., thermometers topped 104 Fahrenheit (40 degrees
(More...)
Natural systems in Australia are unravelling. If they collapse, human society could too
Sun, 14 Aug 2022 19:22:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/natural-systems-in-australia-are-unravelling-if-they-collapse-human-society-could-too-187263>
"In the long-delayed
State of the Environment report released this week,
there is one terrifying sentence: “Environmental degradation is now considered
a threat to humanity, which could bring about societal collapses.”
(More...)
Introducing the Atlantic Archive
Mon, 15 Aug 2022 11:14:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2022/07/introducing-atlantic-archive/670473/>
"One of my great joys as a journalist here is to spelunk into our physical
archive in search of treasures like Asa Gray’s review. And it has been a
particular frustration of mine that I could not share the joy with our readers.
(More...)
Russia’s influence in the Balkans is growing just as the region’s fragile peace is threatened
Mon, 15 Aug 2022 11:15:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/russias-influence-in-the-balkans-is-growing-just-as-the-regions-fragile-peace-is-threatened-185345>
"The EU continues to keep Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo,
North Macedonia and Serbia on the waiting list to join, despite the possibility
that the region could shift closer to Russia.
(More...)
America’s Self-Obsession Is Killing Its Democracy
Mon, 15 Aug 2022 11:16:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2022/07/american-democracy-breakdown-authoritarianism-rise/670580/>
"In 2009, a violent mob stormed the presidential palace in Madagascar, a deeply
impoverished red-earthed island off the coast of East Africa. They had been
incited to violence by opportunistic politicians and media personalities,
(More...)
Labor won’t overhaul environment laws until next year. Here are 5 easy wins it could aim for now
Mon, 15 Aug 2022 11:17:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/labor-wont-overhaul-environment-laws-until-next-year-here-are-5-easy-wins-it-could-aim-for-now-184565>
"Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek this week acknowledged the grave state of
Australia’s environment and pledged new laws to go before parliament next year.
(More...)
Communal living is growing in Australia. Residents say it can create community and reduce cost of living
Mon, 15 Aug 2022 11:19:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-22/communal-living-reduce-cost-of-living-loneliness/101146464>
'In a country where many don't know their neighbours, Laxmi and Dinesh Sanders
want to do things differently.
(More...)
How not to solve the climate change problem
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:10:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-not-to-solve-the-climate-change-problem-187222>
"When politicians talk about reaching “net zero” emissions, they’re often
counting on trees or technology that can pull carbon dioxide out of the air.
What they don’t mention is just how much these proposals or geoengineering
(More...)
3 types of denial that allow Australians to feel OK about how we treat refugees
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:11:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/3-types-of-denial-that-allow-australians-to-feel-ok-about-how-we-treat-refugees-186294>
"As one of its first acts in government, the newly elected Labor government
turned back a boat of Sri Lankan asylum seekers trying to enter Australia.
(More...)
Blaming Social Media For Suicide Is Taking The Easy, And Likely Wrong, Way Out
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:12:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/07/21/blaming-social-media-for-suicide-is-taking-the-easy-and-likely-wrong-way-out/>
"[It] seems to have become accepted wisdom by many — including policymakers —
that social media is dangerous for kids. But every time we look at the details,
the data is lacking. This is not for a lack of trying, of course. There have
(More...)
With The Hype Bubble Burst, Companies Try Comically Hard To Distance Themselves From NFTs
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:13:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/07/21/with-the-hype-bubble-burst-companies-try-comically-hard-to-distance-themselves-from-nfts/>
"There’s surely some utility buried somewhere underneath the monumental piles
of bullshit, hype, and outright scams. But with cryptocurrency values tanking
and the public losing interest, the NFT craze appears to be retreating just as
(More...)
Facebook Is So Sure Its Erroneous Blocking Of Music Is Right, There’s No Option To Say It’s Wrong
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:15:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/07/21/facebook-is-so-sure-its-erroneous-blocking-of-music-is-right-theres-no-option-to-say-its-wrong/>
"It’s hardly a secret that upload filters don’t work well. Back in 2017, Felix
Reda, then Shadow Rapporteur on the EU Copyright Directive in the European
Parliament, put together a representative sample of the many different ways in
(More...)
More than 50 long-term effects of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 10:53:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-95565-8
"COVID-19 can involve persistence, sequelae, and other medical complications
that last weeks to months after initial recovery. This systematic review and
meta-analysis aims to identify studies assessing the long-term effects of
(More...)
New York Times bestselling author Kelly Rimmer buys regional NSW bookshop
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 10:55:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-20/new-york-times-bestselling-author-buys-regional-nsw-bookshop-/101238656>
'An author of international acclaim has decided to make the transition from
writing books to selling them too after buying her regional community's last
bookshop.
(More...)
This Food Does Not Exist 🍪🍰🍣🍹
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 10:56:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://nyx-ai.github.io/stylegan2-flax-tpu/
"We have trained four StyleGAN2 models to generate food pictures. The images
below are purely synthetic!
(More...)
In the rarified world of Jewish letters, a mind-boggling font of Jewish history
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 10:57:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://forward.com/culture/507668/faux-hebrew-font-jewish-antisemitic-soy-vey-origins-fake-yiddish-letters/>
"In the early 1990s, a new teriyaki sauce reached New York supermarkets with a
distinctive label. In faux-Hebrew font, the name “Soy Vay — Veri Veri Teriyaki”
was spelled out. The S was Hebraized by exaggerated serifs; the Hebrew letter
(More...)
‘Covid is not going to go away’: Australia will require public health measures for foreseeable future, say experts
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 10:59:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jul/23/covid-is-not-going-to-go-away-australia-will-require-public-health-measures-for-foreseeable-future-say-experts>
"In May 2021, Australia’s chief medical officer, Prof Paul Kelly, described how
Covid vaccines were our “ticket out of the pandemic”. Vaccination, he said,
would give Australians “a life with more certainty”.
(More...)
Past the Salt
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 23:28:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.biographic.com/past-the-salt/
"In San Francisco’s salty South Bay, an ambitious wetlands restoration project
is seeking to balance a return to the ecological past with the realities of a
changing future."
(More...)
MegaPortraits: One-shot Megapixel Neural Head Avatars
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 23:30:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D5ulvdg0jM
"Our system is capable of creating megapixel avatars from a single portrait
image."
(More...)
So You’ve Decided to Unfollow Me
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 23:32:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://doctorow.medium.com/so-youve-decided-to-unfollow-me-7452c96b4772
"It’s hard to overstate how
liberating the early years of internet publishing
were. After a century of publishing driven by the needs of an audience, we
could finally switch to a model driven by the interests of writers.
(More...)
A penguin farm in the Australian desert: a thought experiment that reveals the flaws our in environment laws
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 23:32:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-penguin-farm-in-the-australian-desert-a-thought-experiment-that-reveals-the-flaws-our-in-environment-laws-187142>
"Imagine this fictitious scenario. The federal environment minister announces
government approval for a large-scale penguin farm near Alice Springs. It will
produce 300,000 penguins each year for the high-end feather market in Europe.
(More...)
4 lessons for the Albanese government in making its climate targets law. We can’t afford to get this wrong
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 23:33:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/4-lessons-for-the-albanese-government-in-making-its-climate-targets-law-we-cant-afford-to-get-this-wrong-187423>
"As the new parliament sits for the first time this week, one issue will be in
sharpest focus: enshrining a climate target into law. The Albanese government’s
pre-election promise was to cut Australia’s emissions 43% on 2005 levels, by
(More...)
From ‘get married’ to getting elected – women a record one-third of candidates in Japan poll
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 11:54:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jul/07/from-get-married-to-getting-elected-women-a-record-one-third-of-candidates-in-japan-poll>
"Less than a year ago, voters in Japan had to look very hard to find a woman’s
name on ballot papers for the lower house election. But as the country prepares
to go to the polls again this weekend, they are comparatively spoiled for
(More...)
China launches new bid for internet dominance
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 11:56:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.politico.com/newsletters/politico-china-watcher/2022/07/21/china-launches-new-bid-for-internet-dominance-00047037>
"Hi, China Watchers. This week we kick the tires on China’s new “cyber
sovereignty” initiative, puzzle over the collapse of congressional “tough on
China” legislation and scrutinize the State Department’s new “wrongful
(More...)
Moving the Maasai: Tanzania is repeating Kenya’s colonial past
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 11:57:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/moving-the-maasai-tanzania-is-repeating-kenyas-colonial-past-186878>
"Images of distressed members of the Maasai community being forcibly moved from
their homes, beaten and harassed by police and the army in northern Tanzania in
June set social media alight with concern. Activists have since voiced their
(More...)
Indigenous Ogiek win ‘landmark’ reparations ruling from African Court
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 11:58:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://grist.org/indigenous/indigenous-ogiek-win-landmark-reparations-ruling-from-african-court/>
"The Republic of Kenya must pay the Indigenous Ogiek people reparations for
decades of illegal evictions from their ancestral land in the Mau Forest.
That’s according to a ruling from the African Court on Human and Peoples’
(More...)
Russia/Ukraine grain export deal promises major benefits for poor countries. If it holds
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 11:59:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/russia-ukraine-grain-export-deal-promises-major-benefits-for-poor-countries-if-it-holds-187595>
"If Russia keeps to the deal it has signed with Ukraine allowing for the
resumption of grain exports, much needed relief will be provided to importing
countries, including many in Africa.
(More...)
The westward spread of zebra and quagga mussels shows how tiny invaders can cause big problems
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:32:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-westward-spread-of-zebra-and-quagga-mussels-shows-how-tiny-invaders-can-cause-big-problems-185286>
"The zebra mussel has been a poster child for invasive species ever since it
unleashed economic and ecological havoc on the Great Lakes in the late 1980s.
Yet despite intensive efforts to control it and its relative, the quagga
(More...)
Transformational therapy cures haemophilia B
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:33:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/health-62240061
'A "transformational" therapy has effectively cured people with the bleeding
disorder haemophilia B, say British doctors.
(More...)
Revealed: oil sector’s ‘staggering’ $3bn-a-day profits for last 50 years
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:34:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jul/21/revealed-oil-sectors-staggering-profits-last-50-years>
"The oil and gas industry has delivered $2.8bn (£2.3bn) a day in pure profit
for the last 50 years, a new analysis has revealed.
(More...)
Landsat turns 50: How satellites revolutionized the way we see – and protect – the natural world
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:35:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
CO2 sensors: Vitalight and Aranet4 review
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:37:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.patreon.com/posts/co2-sensors-and-69540162
"Covid is airborne; that means you catch it by breathing air shared with an
infected person. It’s in people’s exhales. Another thing in people’s exhales is
an odorless, colorless gas called CO2. You breathe in oxygen, your body enjoys
(More...)
Some Surprising Good News: Bookstores Are Booming and Becoming More Diverse
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:39:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/10/books/bookstores-diversity-pandemic.html>
"People told Lucy Yu it was a crazy time to open a bookstore in Chinatown. It
was early 2021, and the pandemic had devastated the neighborhood, forcing
dozens of stores and restaurants to close. The rise of anti-Asian hate crimes
(More...)
How we will fight climate change
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:41:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://noahpinion.substack.com/p/how-we-will-fight-climate-change
"It is now abundantly clear that Americans are not going to support a big
government push to rapidly decarbonize the U.S. economy. The popular urgency
simply is not there.
(More...)
Sprinklers to cool Victoria’s largest permanent flying fox colony over summer
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:42:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jul/25/sprinklers-to-cool-victorias-largest-permanent-flying-fox-colony-over-summer>
"Victoria’s largest permanent flying fox colony will be able to keep cool over
summer thanks to a custom-built $180,000 sprinkler system.
(More...)
Germany: Church, Funfair and Cultural Traditions – Paderborn Celebrates 500 Years of Libori
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:44:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.eap-magazin.de/48-News/11594,Germany:-Church-Funfair--Cultural-Traditions-8211;-Paderborn-Celebrates-500-Years-of-Libori.html>
"The Libori Festival, which has religious origins, is one of the largest and
oldest popular festivals in Germany. The church and the city use it to
celebrate the arrival of the bones of St. Liborius, the patron saint of
(More...)
Do we care enough about COVID?
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:45:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://theconversation.com/do-we-care-enough-about-covid-187356
"The COVID-19 pandemic has already generated its own mythology. In Britain,
they talk of the “myth of the blitz” – the idea of a society that pulled
together in the second world war to withstand the bombs dropped by the
(More...)
Storm-ravaged Bahamas rebuilding its power grid with emphasis on solar energy
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 23:24:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bahamas-hurricanes-power-grid-solar-60-minutes-2022-07-24/>
"When Hurricane Dorian slammed into the northern Bahamas in 2019, the Category
5 storm caused nearly inestimable damage on a number of islands.
(More...)
Monkeypox: World Health Organization declares it a global health emergency – here’s what that means
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 23:25:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Why Is Media Lamenting Disney’s ‘Loss’ Of Copyright Instead Of Celebrating The Public Domain?
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 23:26:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/07/25/why-is-media-lamenting-disneys-loss-of-copyright-instead-of-celebrating-the-public-domain/>
"There’s something odd going on in media reporting on the expiration of
Disney’s copyright on the initial version of Mickey Mouse that is set to occur
in 2024. Given the subject matter, we’ve talked Mickey Mouse quite a bit on
(More...)
‘Building too close to the water. It’s ridiculous!’ Talk of buyouts after floods shows need to get serious about climate adaptation
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 23:27:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/building-too-close-to-the-water-its-ridiculous-talk-of-buyouts-after-floods-shows-need-to-get-serious-about-climate-adaptation-186999>
"Australians are reeling from climate change impacts including more frequent
and severe disasters – floods, droughts, searing heat and fires. These complex
disasters are fuelling calls for managed retreats and debates about buying out
(More...)
Avocado oversupply has farmers begging consumers to eat more to reduce waste
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 23:27:54 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2022-07-26/farmers-beg-aussies-to-eat-avocado-avolanche/101268396>
"Smashed on toast, tossed in a salad, or blended in a smoothie; whichever way
you eat your avocados, farmers are pleading for consumers to eat more of them.
(More...)
Europe looks to heat pumps as Russian war accelerates pivot from gas boilers
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 11:35:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.spglobal.com/marketintelligence/en/news-insights/latest-news-headlines/europe-looks-to-heat-pumps-as-russian-war-accelerates-pivot-from-gas-boilers-70868962>
"The transformation of Europe's residential heating sector — the continent's
largest gas consumption setting — is moving into policy focus amid surging gas
prices and commitments to pivot away from Russian energy imports.
(More...)
Analysis: Record-low price for UK offshore wind is four times cheaper than gas
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 11:36:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.carbonbrief.org/analysis-record-low-price-for-uk-offshore-wind-is-four-times-cheaper-than-gas/>
"A UK government auction has secured a record 11 gigawatts (GW) of new
renewable energy capacity that will generate electricity four times more
cheaply than current gas prices.
(More...)
Urban patchwork is losing its green, making our cities and all who live in them vulnerable
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 11:38:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/urban-patchwork-is-losing-its-green-making-our-cities-and-all-who-live-in-them-vulnerable-187161>
"One delight of flying is seeing our familiar landscapes in a new way from
above. At low altitude most of us know where things are, but as we ascend it
becomes difficult to determine the local details, and we begin to see a bigger
(More...)
Why sensitivity readers matter – and should be paid properly
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 11:39:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-sensitivity-readers-matter-and-should-be-paid-properly-183531>
"Last month, controversy was reignited in the UK around teacher Kate Clanchy’s
memoir
Some Kids I Taught and What They Taught Me, about her time teaching
kids from diverse backgrounds to write poetry.
(More...)
Let's Play Cop Simulator.exe (a game I made up)
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 11:41:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1S77T78OcU
My hair got so frizzy filming this. It was very humid. There was a heatwave.
I think I thought "McClunkey" was a real name.
(More...)
Colombia is first in Western Hemisphere to protect 30% of ocean
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 23:43:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.axios.com/2022/07/03/colombia-protected-ocean
"Colombia's outgoing President Iván Duque has announced that the country became
the first in the Western Hemisphere to make 30% of its ocean territory a
protected area, banning fishing and oil exploration.
(More...)
Introducing Hearing Birdsong, beautifully transforming hearing health
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 23:46:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://abduzeedo.com/introducing-hearing-birdsong-beautifully-transforming-hearing-health>
"We were all ears when we heard about
Hearing Birdsong, a beautiful and
immersive new design initiative digitalizing the approach to hearing screening
with an end goal of de-stigmatizing hearing loss. This one hits close to home
(More...)
Will the Myanmar executions force Australia to act decisively at last?
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 23:47:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/will-the-myanmar-executions-force-australia-to-act-decisively-at-last-187688>
"The execution of four political prisoners in Myanmar is further confirmation
of what was already well known. The regime of Commander-in-Chief Min Aung
Hlaing will stop at nothing to maintain its grip on the country.
(More...)
Australian winery readies to power cellar door with Nissan Leaf and V2H
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 23:48:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2022/07/26/australian-winery-readies-to-power-cellar-door-with-nissan-leaf-and-v2h/>
"A Nissan Leaf will be the main source of energy for a vineyard in South
Australia from next Wednesday, marking a major shift in the relationship
between cars and buildings in Australia.
(More...)
Climate change, rising insurance costs, food security singled out in CSIRO megatrends report
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 23:50:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2022-07-27/climate-change-insurance-csiro-megatrends-report/101261034>
'Insurance is set to get much less affordable in Australia, with the cost of
natural disasters forecast to triple over the next 30 years.
(More...)
Google Arts & Culture
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 11:52:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
In Mexico City, the pandemic revived Aztec-era island farms
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 11:54:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.ph/Wm7OB
"Xochimilco, Mexico City—In Mexico City’s massive Central de Abastos market,
the largest produce market in the world, you can walk for 10 minutes along a
half-mile-long corridor filled only with bananas. Down another of the market’s
(More...)
Ukraine Is the Next Act in Putin’s Empire of Humiliation
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 11:56:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.ph/FdUlK
"To humiliate someone is to exploit your power over them, making them feel
worthless and dependent on you. It is clear, then, that the Russian military
seems intent on humiliating Ukrainians, taking away their right to independence
(More...)
Visiting Canada’s $50 million 1980s ghost town
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 11:57:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://justinmcelroy.com/2022/07/26/visiting-canadas-50-million-1980s-ghost-town/>
"It sounds made up.
In the wilderness of British Columbia, a two hour drive from any town with cell
(More...)
New Zealand is introducing law to create a smokefree generation. Here are 6 reasons to support this policy
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 11:58:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Indigenous communities in Colombia’s Amazon move closer to self-governance
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 19:38:38 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2022/06/indigenous-communities-in-colombias-amazon-move-closer-to-self-governance/>
"RINCON VITINA, Colombia — In this small Indigenous reserve, or resguardo, in
the Colombian department of Guainía, people tend to their cassava, plantain and
pineapple crops, raise ornamental fish, and weave objects from the chiqui
(More...)
Judge throws out Trump-era rollbacks on endangered species
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 19:39:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/biden-california-donald-trump-wildlife-climate-and-environment-798795d6a974fc74e29067ed4043ca9a>
"WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Tuesday threw out a host of actions by
the Trump administration to roll back protections for endangered or threatened
species, a year after the Biden administration said it was moving to strengthen
(More...)
Once nearly extinct, bison are now climate heroes
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 19:40:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-solutions/2022/07/13/bison-buffalo-oklahoma-extinct-climate-change/>
"Miles of prairie stretched out across the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in
southern Oklahoma, acre after acre of brush, grasses and hearty vegetation
creeping toward the low-range granite mountains rising in the distance. Like in
(More...)
The Spectacular Comeback of the American Farmers Market
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 19:41:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/the-spectacular-comeback-of-the-american-farmers-market/>
"Visit the main Portland Farmers Market on any given Saturday morning and
you’ll see tables spilling over with rainbow chard, beets, leeks and all kinds
of lettuce. You’ll see vendors selling homemade salsa and tortilla chips, and
(More...)
Nature’s deteriorating health is threatening the wellbeing of Australians, the State of the Environment report finds
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 19:42:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/natures-deteriorating-health-is-threatening-the-wellbeing-of-australians-the-state-of-the-environment-report-finds-187437>
"For the first time, the new
State of the Environment report explicitly
assessed the dependency of humans on nature. We, as report authors, evaluated
trends and changes in the environment’s health for their impact on human
(More...)
AP PHOTOS: In Kenya, nearly a decade of mangrove restoration
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 03:47:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/science-health-plants-kenya-mangroves-cc082c4f88472afd987d289b0664a62c>
"The village of Gazi Bay on Kenya’s coast, just 55 kilometers (34 miles) south
of bustling Mombasa and tucked away from the country’s well-trodden tourism
circuit, has gained traction in recent years as a model for restoring and
(More...)
Wildlife Revival Sparks Conservation Craze in New Zealand’s Capital
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 03:48:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.ph/McAOa
"An ecological revolution in New Zealand’s capital is underway, as the return
of native bird species and close encounters with orca and whales fuel a
volunteer conservation movement among Wellington’s residents.
(More...)
The Nature Lover’s App That Became a Catalog of Earth’s Biodiversity
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 03:50:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/citizen-scientists-fueling-biodiversity-research/>
"When Tom Doubleday walks in the Vermont woods, he turns over rocks looking for
salamanders. He listens for birdsong. He notices many of the plant species
around him.
(More...)
James Lovelock: Influential green thinker dies aged 103
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 03:51:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-62322575
"British scientist James Lovelock, who devoted his life to the global green
movement, has died on his 103rd birthday, his family has said.
(More...)
The Super-Cheap Solar-Powered Car Is Finally Here!
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 03:52:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjoHimaqqfY
"Who wants a cheap, simple EV that charges itself by the sun? Oh and you also
want some moss on the dashboard? Well, you're in luck.
(More...)
Australian species brought back from extinction in NSW after 200 years
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 11:53:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.smh.com.au/environment/conservation/australian-species-brought-back-from-extinction-in-nsw-after-200-years-20220708-p5b05k.html>
"It’s been almost two centuries since the small Mitchell’s hopping mouse jumped
across NSW, but scientists are hoping 150 of the creatures might be enough to
restore its population.
(More...)
A Seaweed Farming Boom Is Preparing Maine for Life After Lobsters
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 11:54:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/seaweed-farming-maine-climate-change-lobsters/>
"The landing dock of the Portland Fish Exchange is busy this afternoon, in a
way that almost reminds David Townsend of when there were still groundfish to
catch in Casco Bay, when this pier was piled with cod and haddock. That was
(More...)
Digital autonomy and the GNOME desktop
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 11:55:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://lwn.net/Articles/902463/
'While GUADEC, the GNOME community's annual conference, has always been held in
Europe (or online-only) since it began in 2000, this year's edition was held in
North America, specifically in Guadalajara, Mexico, July 20-25. Rob McQueen
(More...)
‘Like ocean rips’: CSIRO report identifies 7 ‘global megatrends’ shaping the 21st century
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 11:56:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/like-ocean-rips-csiro-report-identifies-7-global-megatrends-shaping-the-21st-century-187433>
"Around 3.7 million Australians have been unintentionally caught in an ocean
rip. For the unprepared it can be a harrowing experience – but for experienced
surfers, rips are a handy way to ride through the whitewash and out to the
(More...)
Climate change killed 40 million Australian mangroves in 2015. Here’s why they’ll probably never grow back
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 11:57:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/climate-change-killed-40-million-australian-mangroves-in-2015-heres-why-theyll-probably-never-grow-back-166971>
"In the summer of 2015-2016, some 40 million mangroves shrivelled up and died
across the wild Gulf of Carpentaria in northern Australia, after extremely dry
weather from a severe El Niño event saw coastal water plunge 40 centimetres.
(More...)
California cities ban new gas stations in battle to combat climate change
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 19:35:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-07-11/california-cities-ban-new-gas-stations-amid-climate-change>
"Without realizing they were starting a movement in green energy policy,
leaders of a small Sonoma County city seem to have done just that when they
questioned the approval process for a new gas station — eventually halting its
(More...)
Russia’s withdrawal from the International Space Station could mean the early demise of the orbital lab – and sever another Russian link with the West
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 19:36:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/russias-withdrawal-from-the-international-space-station-could-mean-the-early-demise-of-the-orbital-lab-and-sever-another-russian-link-with-the-west-187754>
"Russia intends to withdraw from the International Space Station after 2024,
according to an announcement from Yuri Borisov, the new head of the Russian
space agency, Roscosmos, in a meeting with Vladimir Putin on July 26, 2022.
(More...)
Why Russia is on a charm offensive in Africa. The reasons aren’t pretty
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 19:37:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-russia-is-on-a-charm-offensive-in-africa-the-reasons-arent-pretty-187711>
"Russia is the source of less than 1% of the foreign direct investment into
Africa. Substantively, then, Russia brings little to the continent. But the
fact that Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is making a high-profile trip
(More...)
Eating less food from animal sources is key to reducing the risk of wildlife-origin diseases and global warming
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 19:38:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/eating-less-food-from-animal-sources-is-key-to-reducing-the-risk-of-wildlife-origin-diseases-and-global-warming-185610>
"The world is at greater risk of infectious diseases that originate in wildlife
because people are encroaching on tropical areas of wilderness to feed
livestock and hunt wild animals.
(More...)
Soil abounds with life – and supports all life above it. But Australian soils need urgent repair
Sun, 21 Aug 2022 19:39:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/soil-abounds-with-life-and-supports-all-life-above-it-but-australian-soils-need-urgent-repair-187280>
"Under your feet lies the most biodiverse habitat on Earth. The soil on which
we walk supports the majority of life on the planet. Without the life in it, it
wouldn’t be soil. Unfortunately, Australia’s soils are not in good shape. The
(More...)
We have the tools and technology to work less and live better
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 04:44:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://bigthink.com/the-present/work-less/
"In 1930, a year into the Great Depression, John Maynard Keynes sat down to
write about the economic possibilities of his grandchildren.
(More...)
Monarch butterflies join the Red List of endangered species, thanks to habitat loss, climate change and pesticides
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 04:45:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/monarch-butterflies-join-the-red-list-of-endangered-species-thanks-to-habitat-loss-climate-change-and-pesticides-187585>
"On July 21, 2022, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature
placed the migratory monarch butterfly on its
Red List of threatened species
and classified it as endangered. Monarchs migrate across North America each
(More...)
The opioid crisis isn’t just the Sacklers’ fault – and making Purdue Pharma pay isn’t enough on its own to fix the pharmaceutical industry’s deeper problems
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 04:46:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-opioid-crisis-isnt-just-the-sacklers-fault-and-making-purdue-pharma-pay-isnt-enough-on-its-own-to-fix-the-pharmaceutical-industrys-deeper-problems-178710>
"You may have heard of the Sackler family and the role that they and their
privately held company, Purdue Pharma, played in the opioid crisis. One TV
series depicting the family as a villainous clan has earned 14 Emmy
(More...)
Top democracy activists were executed in Myanmar – 4 key things to know
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 04:47:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/top-democracy-activists-were-executed-in-myanmar-4-key-things-to-know-187671>
"The current conflict in Myanmar raised new international concern when the
country’s military announced on July 25, 2022, that it had executed four
pro-democracy activists and political prisoners.
(More...)
Are Vladimir Putin’s nuclear threats a bluff? In a word – probably
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 04:48:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/are-vladimir-putins-nuclear-threats-a-bluff-in-a-word-probably-187689>
"Russian President Vladimir Putin habitually rattles his nuclear sabres when
things start looking grim for Moscow, and has done so long before his
ill-advised invasion of Ukraine.
(More...)
Covid study finds millions have long-term smell or taste problems
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:46:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jul/27/covid-study-finds-millions-have-long-term-smell-or-taste-problems>
"Millions of people worldwide may have long-term smell or taste problems as a
result of Covid-19, with women more likely to be affected, a study suggests.
(More...)
Inspiration, mentor and a truly great man: Tim Flannery farewells scientist James Lovelock, who has returned to Gaia at 103
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:48:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Artificial light at night can change the behaviour of all animals, not just humans
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:48:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/artificial-light-at-night-can-change-the-behaviour-of-all-animals-not-just-humans-183028>
"As the Moon rises on a warm evening in early summer, thousands of baby turtles
emerge and begin their precarious journey towards the ocean, while millions of
moths and fireflies take to the air to begin the complex process of finding a
(More...)
‘It’s kind of suffocating’: queer young Australians speak about how they feel at school and what they think of politicians
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:49:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Protecting 30% of Australia’s land and sea by 2030 sounds great – but it’s not what it seems
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:50:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/protecting-30-of-australias-land-and-sea-by-2030-sounds-great-but-its-not-what-it-seems-187435>
"You would have heard Australia’s environment isn’t doing well. A grim story of
“crisis and decline” was how Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek described the
situation when she launched the
State of the Environment Report last week.
(More...)
Dashcam repo
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:19:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://doctorow.medium.com/dashcam-repo-33bc514024e
"If you want a motto for the current economic situation, a touchstone to check
in on whenever you hear about a new business model or a new depredation, I
suggest Michael Hudson’s bedrock claim: “Debts that can’t be paid, won’t be
(More...)
Not waving, drowning: why keeping warming under 1.5℃ is a life-or-death matter for tidal marshes
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:20:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/not-waving-drowning-why-keeping-warming-under-1-5-is-a-life-or-death-matter-for-tidal-marshes-187540>
"It may not always be clear why global temperature rise must be kept below
1.5℃, compared to 2℃ or 3℃. Research published today in the journal Science
shows this apparently small distinction will make all the difference for the
(More...)
Precarious employment, hiring discrimination and a toxic workplace: what work looks like for Australian cinematographers
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:21:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/precarious-employment-hiring-discrimination-and-a-toxic-workplace-what-work-looks-like-for-australian-cinematographers-187080>
"It has been a fantastic year for Australian cinematographers in Hollywood.
Australian directors of photography represented two of the five nominees for
(More...)
No Pigs Were Harmed for These Pork Sausages, But They’re Real (Cultured) Meat
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:22:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://singularityhub.com/2022/07/29/no-pigs-were-harmed-for-these-pork-sausages-but-theyre-real-cultured-meat/>
"For a technology that was largely unheard of a decade ago, cultured meat has
taken off quickly in recent years. Not only are there many different types of
meat being grown from animal cells (like ground beef, chicken, salmon, and
(More...)
A summer of bomb threats frightens Moldova as war rages nearby
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:23:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/7/29/a-summer-of-bomb-threats-frightens-moldova-as-war-rages-nearby>
"On July 5, Moldovan authorities were alerted via email that more than 50 state
institutions had been mined that day.
(More...)
Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Reinfection
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 03:49:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-1749502/v1
"First infection with SARS-CoV-2 is associated with increased risk of acute and
post-acute death and sequelae in the pulmonary and extrapulmonary organ
systems. However, whether reinfection adds to the risk incurred after the first
(More...)
At Oak Flat, courts and politicians fail tribes
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 03:50:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.hcn.org/articles/indigenous-affairs-justice-at-oak-flat-courts-and-politicians-fail-tribes>
"In southeast Arizona, the flat-topped mesas and rocky spires of Chi’chil
Biłdagoteel (known in English as Oak Flat) give way to grassy basins where
Emory oak trees grow, shedding acorns every year that are collected by members
(More...)
The Case Against Reality Winner Was A Travesty
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 03:53:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/07/29/the-case-against-reality-winner-was-a-travesty/>
"Ever since Reality Winner was arrested, we’ve written about the ridiculousness
of her case. It was yet another in a long line of cases using the Espionage Act
to go after whistleblowers who aren’t spies, but are actively trying to do the
(More...)
Nat Paull made the tough call to close her bakery after pandemic burnout — and then her customers turned on her
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 03:54:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-30/beatrix-bakes-covid-pandemic-burnout/101283486>
"It must be all that sugar. What other explanation could there be for a
dedicated clientele of a much-loved local bakery suddenly turning savagely on
said establishment as its owner humbly confessed to pandemic burnout?
(More...)
Melbourne's Shrine of Remembrance cancels rainbow light plan, citing threats and abuse
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 03:55:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-30/shrine-of-remembrance-in-rainbow-colour-scrapped/101284904>
'Melbourne's Shrine of Remembrance has cancelled plans to illuminate the site
in rainbow colours, citing "sustained abuse" and threats directed at its staff.
(More...)
Rising corporate profits major factor in Australia’s escalating inflation, report finds
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:41:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/jul/18/rising-corporate-profits-major-factor-in-australias-escalating-inflation-report-finds>
"Wages have had little or no effect on Australia’s inflation rate in the past
three years, according to new economic analysis from a leading thinktank.
(More...)
Archie Roach: the great songman, tender and humble, who gave our people a voice
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:42:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/archie-roach-the-great-songman-tender-and-humble-who-gave-our-people-a-voice-187974>
"I am not sure of the first time I heard Archie Roach’s music.
Like most Aboriginal people born during or after the 1980s, we grew up
(More...)
Don't be fooled by fossil fuel industry's 'green' word salads
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:44:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://independentaustralia.net/environment/environment-display/dont-be-fooled-by-fossil-fuel-industrys-green-word-salads,16609>
"ON A RECENT episode of Fox Business show
Mornings with Maria, American
Petroleum Institute (API) CEO and president Mike Sommers said that:
(More...)
Habitual mask-wearing is likely helping Japan, Singapore and South Korea bring daily Omicron deaths down, epidemiologists say
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:45:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-01/japan-singapore-south-korea-omicron-wave-and-mask-wearing-impact/101266844>
'As the mask mandate debate rages on in Australia, epidemiologists and medical
specialists suggest looking to countries where citizens are perfectly happy to
wear them to see how powerful the simple infection-control measure can be.
(More...)
Long COVID should make us rethink disability – and the way we offer support to those with ‘invisible conditions’
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:46:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/long-covid-should-make-us-rethink-disability-and-the-way-we-offer-support-to-those-with-invisible-conditions-187531>
"Australia has only a handful of specialists familiar with managing what
happens when the nervous system can’t properly regulate the body, as sometimes
occurs with long COVID. While long COVID clinics are being set up, there are no
(More...)
Has the world become less colourful?
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 23:46:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://twitter.com/culturaltutor/status/1551976051860963333
"If you feel like the world seems increasingly colourless, you’re not just
imagining it. Take cars, for example. Greyscale colours now make up three
quarters of cars produced globally, compared to less than 50% in the past. Just
(More...)
Greening the greyfields: how to renew our suburbs for more liveable, net-zero cities
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 23:47:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/greening-the-greyfields-how-to-renew-our-suburbs-for-more-liveable-net-zero-cities-187261>
"Our ageing cities are badly in need of regeneration. Many established
residential areas, the “greyfields”, are becoming physically, technologically
and environmentally obsolete. They are typically located in low-density,
(More...)
As Myanmar suffers, the military junta is desperate, isolated and running out of options
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 23:49:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/as-myanmar-suffers-the-military-junta-is-desperate-isolated-and-running-out-of-options-187697>
"The military junta’s execution of four pro-democracy activists earlier this
week has again shone a spotlight on the appalling judgement and brutality of
the junta leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, and his top generals.
(More...)
Why Labor’s new tax cut on electric vehicles won’t help you buy one anytime soon
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 23:50:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-labors-new-tax-cut-on-electric-vehicles-wont-help-you-buy-one-anytime-soon-187847>
"The Albanese government has introduced tax cuts to electric vehicles in its
first sitting week, claiming the proposed changes would be “good for motorists,
good for climate action and good for fleet purchases”. They won’t, however,
(More...)
Can we solve Australia's housing crisis? Ambitious plan launched to eradicate rental stress and lower homeless rate
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 23:51:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-01/plan-to-solve-housing-crisis/101287662>
'Homelessness Australia has launched an ambitious plan to solve the housing
crisis in Australia.
(More...)
News Corp might end democracy
Wed, 24 Aug 2022 11:30:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://capturedstates.substack.com/p/democracy
"Wishful observers are claiming that Murdoch’s reign is over. His three
clowns—Trump, Morrison and Johnson—have been removed from office after causing
deep damage to their institutions and countries.
(More...)
Few Australians have the right to work from home, even after COVID. Here’s how that could change
Wed, 24 Aug 2022 11:31:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/few-australians-have-the-right-to-work-from-home-even-after-covid-heres-how-that-could-change-187696>
"Before the pandemic, working from home was a luxury. Then it became a
necessity. Since lockdowns have eased it has become a contested space between
what employers and workers want.
(More...)
Does Jacinda Ardern’s popularity really qualify as a cult of personality, as some critics claim?
Wed, 24 Aug 2022 11:32:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/does-jacinda-arderns-popularity-really-qualify-as-a-cult-of-personality-as-some-critics-claim-187516>
"Jacinda Ardern’s popularity has fluctuated over the past five years, with the
prime minister’s approval peaking at 76% in May 2020. Those early rises in
popularity were met with warnings about the risks of placing a political leader
(More...)
An Arabic anti-LGBTQ+ campaign is going viral on Twitter
Wed, 24 Aug 2022 11:34:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://restofworld.org/2022/an-arabic-anti-lgbtq-campaign-is-going-viral-on-twitter/>
"In late June, an account launched on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and
Telegram called
Fetrah — the Arabic word for “human instinct.” Soon after,
the account posted a Twitter thread in Arabic calling on social media users to
(More...)
Women are turning the tide on climate policy worldwide, and may launch a new era for Australia
Wed, 24 Aug 2022 11:35:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/women-are-turning-the-tide-on-climate-policy-worldwide-and-may-launch-a-new-era-for-australia-187853>
"When the new federal parliament opened last week, a record number of female
politicians took their seats: 38% in the House of Representatives and 57% in
the Senate. This changing of the guard, with women at the forefront, brings an
(More...)
Why none of my books are available on Audible
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 01:31:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://doctorow.medium.com/why-none-of-my-books-are-available-on-audible-83cb182f2f91>
"I
love audiobooks. When I was a high-school-aged page at a public library in
the 1980s, I would pass endless hours shelving and repairing books while
listening to “books on tape” from the library’s collection. By the time iTunes
(More...)
Solar is the cheapest power, and a literal light-bulb moment showed us we can cut costs and emissions even further
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 01:32:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/solar-is-the-cheapest-power-and-a-literal-light-bulb-moment-showed-us-we-can-cut-costs-and-emissions-even-further-187008>
"Recent extreme weather events have underscored the need to cut the CO₂
emissions that are driving up global temperatures. This requires a rapid
transition of the energy economy to renewable energy sources, the cheapest
(More...)
Good news: highway underpasses for wildlife actually work
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 01:33:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/good-news-highway-underpasses-for-wildlife-actually-work-187434>
"Australia’s wildlife is increasingly threatened with extinction. One key
driver of this is habitat clearing and fragmentation. An associated factor is
the expansion of our road network, particularly the upgrade and duplication of
(More...)
‘Laid awake and wept’: destruction of nature takes a toll on the human psyche. Here’s one way to cope
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 01:34:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/laid-awake-and-wept-destruction-of-nature-takes-a-toll-on-the-human-psyche-heres-one-way-to-cope-187837>
"Predictions of catastrophic climate change seem endless – and already, its
effects are hard to ignore. Events such as bushfires, floods and species loss
generate feelings of sadness, anxiety and grief in many people. But this toll
(More...)
Troubling new research shows warm waters rushing towards the world’s biggest ice sheet in Antarctica
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 01:35:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/troubling-new-research-shows-warm-waters-rushing-towards-the-worlds-biggest-ice-sheet-in-antarctica-187483>
"Warmer waters are flowing towards the East Antarctic ice sheet, according to
our alarming new research which reveals a potential new driver of global
sea-level rise.
(More...)
The scariest metric of the climate change era: Wet Bulb Globe Temperature
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:52:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/the-infinite-universe/new-experimental-wet-bulb-globe-temperature-to-help-us-know-when-it-is-safe-to-brave-the-heat-710f2d68c002>
"Global warming means that each summer is hotter than the last and each year
deadly heat spreads further north. Yet, heat in itself isn’t what kills. It is
rather when the weather interferes with the ability of the human body to get
(More...)
Spending $200b to relocated doomed communities will save $1T
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:54:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://doctorow.medium.com/spending-200b-to-relocated-doomed-communities-will-save-1t-924694652787>
"One million US homes are built on floodplains. It would cost $200B to relocate
the people who live in them. If we do that, we will save $1T. Those homes are
doomed. When (not if) people leave them (either before or after floods come),
(More...)
Afghanistan a year after the Taliban occupation: An ongoing war on human rights
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:55:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/afghanistan-a-year-after-the-taliban-occupation-an-ongoing-war-on-human-rights-187728>
"The word “anniversary” usually brings about happy and memorable moments. But
Aug. 15 marks one year since the Taliban takeover and occupation of
Afghanistan, and it’s not a happy occasion for my homeland.
(More...)
Houseplants don’t just look nice – they can also give your mental health a boost
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:55:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/houseplants-dont-just-look-nice-they-can-also-give-your-mental-health-a-boost-186982>
"For those of us without access to outside green space, houseplants are a
stylish and affordable way of getting a nature fix. Alongside looking nice,
indoor plants actually have several other perks – the biggest benefit of which
(More...)
What’s the Strangest Thing You Ever Found in a Book?
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:57:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://noctslackv2.wordpress.com/2022/08/02/whats-the-strangest-thing-you-ever-found-in-a-book/>
"Here’s my story…
About 20 years ago or so, I was at a Salvation Army auction one morning. They
(More...)
How Giving Up Flying Helped Me Rediscover the World
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 01:22:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/travel-editor-flight-free-climate-change-behavior-change/>
"Being a travel editor who’s given up flying for the climate elicits a range of
responses: incredulity, cynicism, enthusiasm, awe, disgust — any and all are
possible depending on the demographic and worldview of the listener.
(More...)
Your Yard Could Be a Wildlife Sanctuary
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 01:23:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/homegrown-wildlife-sanctuaries-restore-biodiversity/>
"When Donna Corbelli Castro moved to her home in South Florida 25 years ago,
her yard was “stark, barren, hot and devoid of any trees,” she says. The
typical way to tackle this would have been to do what many of her neighbors had
(More...)
Australia’s ‘Teal Independents’ Are a Conservative Force for Climate Action
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 01:24:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/australia-climate-change-teal-independents-women/>
"When Australia’s new parliament sat for the first time in late July, the
familiar faces of the center-left Labor party and the center-right Coalition
took their seats as usual on either side of the chamber.
(More...)
As Russia and Ukraine trade blame for prisoner-of-war deaths, what becomes of the Geneva Convention?
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 01:25:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/as-russia-and-ukraine-trade-blame-for-prisoner-of-war-deaths-what-becomes-of-the-geneva-convention-187987>
"The deaths of more than 50 Ukrainian prisoners of war last week is not only an
apparent war crime, but also another sign the situation is becoming a race to
the bottom when it comes to international law and conventions.
(More...)
Judges need better education and structures to improve impartiality: report
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 01:26:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/judges-need-better-education-and-structures-to-improve-impartiality-report-188068>
"Australians expects judges to make decisions impartially: that is, free from a
range of improper and unacceptable political, financial and personal
influences. Not only must they make decisions impartially, they must be seen to
(More...)
Gone for Thousands of Years, Wild Bison Return to the UK
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:42:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://e360.yale.edu/digest/wild-bison-britain-climate-change
"Wild bison, absent from the United Kingdom for thousands of years, are being
reintroduced to a forest near Canterbury, England to help restore the woods to
their natural state.
(More...)
For Burlington, Vermont, Going 100% Renewable Was Just the Start
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:44:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://nextcity.org/urbanist-news/for-burlington-vermont-going-100-renewable-energy-was-just-the-start>
"The City of Burlington, Vermont is known for its progressive student
population and proximity to stunning autumn foliage and variety of ski terrain.
Though the population of the city, clocking in at 42,000, isn’t large by
(More...)
New Zealand is touting a green hydrogen economy, but it will face big environmental and cultural hurdles
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:45:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/new-zealand-is-touting-a-green-hydrogen-economy-but-it-will-face-big-environmental-and-cultural-hurdles-187521>
"In its plan to retool the economy, the New Zealand government highlighted
green hydrogen as a game-changing fuel. It can indeed be used to make
climate-friendly fertilisers and steel or to power some modes of transport that
(More...)
It’s official: the Murray-Darling Basin Plan hasn’t met its promise to our precious rivers. So where to now?
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:46:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/its-official-the-murray-darling-basin-plan-hasnt-met-its-promise-to-our-precious-rivers-so-where-to-now-188074>
"A long-awaited report released on Tuesday found the amount of water promised
to river environments under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan “cannot be achieved”
under current settings. In short, the plan is failing on a key target.
(More...)
Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan raises temperatures, but it’s in everyone’s interest to cool them down again
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:47:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/pelosis-visit-to-taiwan-raises-temperatures-but-its-in-everyones-interest-to-cool-them-down-again-188144>
"US Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi’s provocative visit to Taiwan has been
ill-timed from the perspective of China’s leader Xi Jinping.
(More...)
Data Centers Are Facing a Climate Crisis
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 19:46:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.wired.com/story/data-centers-climate-change/
"When record temperatures wracked the UK in late July, Google Cloud’s data
centers in London went offline for a day, due to cooling failures. The impact
wasn’t limited to those near the center: That particular location services
(More...)
Oaxaca, Endless OS, and indigenous languages
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 19:47:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://lwn.net/Articles/903597/
"A rural Mexican state was the setting for an initiative to use the GNOME-based
Endless OS to improve education in indigenous communities. Over the last
several years, the Endless OS Foundation has teamed up with the
Fundación
(More...)
Pacific nations are extraordinarily rich in critical minerals. But mining them may take a terrible toll
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 19:48:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/pacific-nations-are-extraordinarily-rich-in-critical-minerals-but-mining-them-may-take-a-terrible-toll-187172>
"Plundering the Pacific for its rich natural resources has a long pedigree.
Think of the European companies strip-mining Nauru for its phosphate and
leaving behind a moonscape.
(More...)
Where are all the ants? World-first ‘treasure map’ reveals hotspots for rare species
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 19:48:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/where-are-all-the-ants-world-first-treasure-map-reveals-hotspots-for-rare-species-188092>
"The American biologist E.O. Wilson famously called invertebrates “the little
things that run the world”. Despite their great importance, we still know very
little about the worms, insects and other small creatures that make up the
(More...)
Japan’s Old Enough and Australia’s Bluey remind us our kids are no longer ‘free range’ – but we can remake our neighbourhoods
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 19:49:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/japans-old-enough-and-australias-bluey-remind-us-our-kids-are-no-longer-free-range-but-we-can-remake-our-neighbourhoods-187698>
"In the popular Japanese TV series
Old Enough, very young children are sent
out into their neighbourhood on their first solo errand. The release of this
long-running series on Netflix this year created a buzz among Western viewers
(More...)
Three myths about COVID-19 — and the biggest challenge that lies ahead
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 03:48:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2022-07-29/covid-19-three-myths-challenge-lies-ahead/101274980>
"As an immunologist with four decades of research on antibodies under my belt,
I always felt like I had a pretty good handle on COVID-19.
(More...)
How used clothes became part of Africa’s creative economy – and fashion sense
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 03:49:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-used-clothes-became-part-of-africas-creative-economy-and-fashion-sense-186575>
"In recent years the global secondhand apparel market for clothing and shoes
has grown exponentially. In 2002 used clothing exports were worth US$1.4
billion. Despite a slowdown during the COVID-19 pandemic exports were close to
(More...)
Coyotes are here to stay in North American cities – here’s how to appreciate them from a distance
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 03:50:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/coyotes-are-here-to-stay-in-north-american-cities-heres-how-to-appreciate-them-from-a-distance-186893>
"Coyotes have become practically ubiquitous across the lower 48 United States,
and they’re increasingly turning up in cities. The draws are abundant food and
green space in urban areas.
(More...)
France struggled to relinquish Algeria as a nuclear test site, archives reveal
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 03:51:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/france-struggled-to-relinquish-algeria-as-a-nuclear-test-site-archives-reveal-187712>
"Top French officials, including French President Charles de Gaulle, sought to
conduct atmospheric nuclear tests in the Algerian Sahara following the former
French colony’s independence in 1962. These plans, described in recently
(More...)
Great Barrier Reef sees record coral cover, but it is highly vulnerable
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 03:52:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-62402891
'Coral has recovered from storms and bleaching events to record levels across
much of Australia's Great Barrier Reef, a survey has found.
(More...)
Political Chips
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 11:34:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://stratechery.com/2022/political-chips/
"Last Friday AMD surpassed Intel in market capitalization.
This was the second time in history this happened — the first was earlier this
(More...)
More than ever, it’s time to upgrade the Sydney–Melbourne railway
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 11:35:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/more-than-ever-its-time-to-upgrade-the-sydney-melbourne-railway-187169>
"It’s 14 years since former NSW rail chief Len Harper described the rail link
between Australia’s two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, as “inadequate
for current and future needs”. And it’s 31 years since former Prime Minister
(More...)
Don’t fall for the snake oil claims of ‘structured water’. A chemist explains why it’s nonsense
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 11:36:04 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/dont-fall-for-the-snake-oil-claims-of-structured-water-a-chemist-explains-why-its-nonsense-188159>
"Is there a “fourth phase of water”? From time to time you might see people
talking up the health benefits of so-called hexagonal water, or structured
water, or exclusion-zone (EZ) water.
(More...)
Thanks To Automated Copyright Claims And A Troll, Infamous CounterStrike Clip Gets A DMCA Takedown
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 11:36:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/08/04/thanks-to-automated-copyright-claims-and-a-troll-infamous-counterstrike-clip-gets-a-dmca-takedown/>
"At this point, every reader here should be aware that YouTube has a
copyright/DMCA problem it has yet to solve. Going through the myriad of posts
we’ve done about DMCA and ContentID takedowns on YouTube, the theme is
(More...)
Friday essay: a slave state - how blackbirding in colonial Australia created a legacy of racism
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 11:37:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-a-slave-state-how-blackbirding-in-colonial-australia-created-a-legacy-of-racism-187782>
"In July 2021, Jack Dempsey, the mayor of Bundaberg, delivered an official
apology for Northern Queensland’s past reliance on the indentured labour of
Pacific Islanders, many of whom were kidnapped (or “blackbirded”) and forced to
(More...)
How Germany is kicking its meat habit
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 19:29:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/23273338/germany-less-meat-plant-based-vegan-vegetarian-flexitarian>
"Oktoberfest — the annual two-week festival in Munich, Germany, that attracts
some 6 million attendees a year — originally began in 1810 as the gaudy
celebration of a royal marriage. Today, it’s primarily a good reason for
(More...)
UN General Assembly declares access to clean and healthy environment a universal human right
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 19:30:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/07/1123482
"With 161 votes in favour, and eight abstentions*, the UN General Assembly
adopted a historic resolution on Thursday, declaring access to a clean, healthy
and sustainable environment, a universal human right.
(More...)
How mates and grey corruption rig the political game
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 19:31:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-mates-and-grey-corruption-rig-the-political-game-187622>
"If you were a powerful politician, there is a good chance you would make
decisions that favour your mates.
(More...)
Bail Conditions For Arrested Australian Activists Demand The Impossible: No Using Encrypted Applications
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 19:32:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/08/05/bail-conditions-for-arrested-australian-activists-demand-the-impossible-no-using-encrypted-applications/>
"The Australian government doesn’t care much for encryption. It has, for years,
tried to legislate encryption out of the picture. A law passed in 2018 gives
the government the power to compel encryption-breaking efforts from tech
(More...)
Record coral cover doesn’t necessarily mean the Great Barrier Reef is in good health (despite what you may have heard)
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 19:32:48 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/record-coral-cover-doesnt-necessarily-mean-the-great-barrier-reef-is-in-good-health-despite-what-you-may-have-heard-188233>
"In what seems like excellent news, coral cover in parts of the Great Barrier
Reef is at a record high, according to new data from the Australian Institute
of Marine Science. But this doesn’t necessarily mean our beloved reef is in
(More...)
One million homes were unoccupied on census night. How that could help people struggling to find housing
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 03:15:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-06-29/census-finds-1-million-empty-houses-amid-affordability-crisis/101190794>
'An "enormous chunk" of Australia's housing stock is unoccupied, and "something
must be done" about it, a demographer says.
(More...)
$245-million initiative to create and maintain protected areas in Colombia
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 03:17:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2022/07/245-million-initiative-to-create-and-maintain-protected-areas-in-colombia/>
"A new multi-million-dollar conservation initiative in Colombia aims to create
numerous new protected areas and biological corridors across the country,
bringing it closer to meeting long-term climate change prevention goals.
(More...)
Absolutely Terrible Textbook Publishing Giant Pearson Wants To Make Everything Even Worse With NFTs
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 03:18:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2022/08/05/absolutely-terrible-textbook-publishing-giant-pearson-wants-to-make-everything-even-worse-with-nfts/>
"While there are some considerate professors out there who take into account
the cost of textbooks (and a very rare few who will only require open access
textbooks), most don’t seem to much care. They assign the books they want, the
(More...)
As rents and mortgage repayments rise, is multi-generational living the secret to thriving in tough economic times?
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 03:20:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-06/surviving-cost-of-living-pressures-multi-generational-living/101233868>
'Staring down the possibility of taking out a large mortgage to buy a house
they could barely afford, Luke Saliba and his wife Claire Gooch decided to try
something different.
(More...)
The next Dalai Lama
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 03:21:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Angkor Wat’s baby boom
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 12:39:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/feat/archives/2022/08/03/2003782879
"Decades after poachers hunted nearly all wildlife that inhabited the forests
near Cambodia’s world heritage listed Angkor Wat temple, a joint conservation
program is now bringing them back"
(More...)
Vale Judith Durham, the cuddly Aussie ‘girl-next-door’ whose soaring voice found international fame
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 12:40:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
The ends of education
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 12:42:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
http://www.antipope.org/charlie/blog-static/2022/08/the-end-of-education.html>
"So we're into the Conservative Party leadership run-off campaign, and the two
candidates are throwing policies at the base that, to outsider ears, sound
increasingly bizarre. But there's a lot we can learn from them about how the
(More...)
Ukrainian woman risks her life to rescue wild animals from war with Russia, going $290,000 in debt
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 12:43:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-08/ukrainian-woman-risks-her-life-to-rescue-wild-animals-from-war/101309510>
'Rescuing wild animals and pets from the devastation of the war in Ukraine has
become Natalia Popova's new purpose in life.
(More...)
Polarising, sensational media coverage of transgender athletes should end – our research shows a way forward
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 12:44:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/polarising-sensational-media-coverage-of-transgender-athletes-should-end-our-research-shows-a-way-forward-187250>
"Given recent and often sensationalist media coverage of the issue, it’s easy
to overlook the fact that transgender athletes have participated in elite sport
for decades – at least as far back as tennis player Renée Richards competing in
(More...)
In much of Asia, tiger populations are rebounding
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 19:46:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.ph/YRFdC
"Tigers are having a good year.
Nepalese officials announced Friday the top predator’s numbers within the
(More...)
Iguanas reproducing on Galapagos island, more than a century after disappearing
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 19:50:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-02/iguana-comeback-galapagos-island/101293642>
'A land iguana that disappeared more than a century ago from one of the
Galapagos islands is reproducing naturally following its reintroduction there.
(More...)
In Nebraska, Bighorn Sheep Reclaim Their Former High Plains Home
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 19:51:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://e360.yale.edu/features/2022-film-contest-runner-up-bighorn-sheep-nebraska>
"A century ago, bighorn sheep, which once flourished on Nebraska’s high plains,
had been wiped out there by overhunting, human encroachment, and disease. Yet
over the last 40 years, scientists have reintroduced the sheep to western
(More...)
New Zealand has launched a plan to prepare for inevitable climate change impacts: 5 areas where the hard work starts now
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 19:52:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
‘I left with the kids and ended up homeless with them’: the nightmare of housing wait lists for people fleeing domestic violence
Sun, 28 Aug 2022 19:53:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/i-left-with-the-kids-and-ended-up-homeless-with-them-the-nightmare-of-housing-wait-lists-for-people-fleeing-domestic-violence-187687>
"People who flee domestic violence desperately need safe, affordable and secure
housing. Our study of people on housing waiting lists in New South Wales,
Tasmania and Queensland found private rental housing isn’t an option when
(More...)
What Happens When You Offer Grammar Advice to Complete Strangers in the Middle of Manhattan
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:20:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://lithub.com/what-happens-when-you-offer-grammar-advice-to-complete-strangers-in-the-middle-of-manhattan/>
"In the late afternoon of September 21, 2018, I exited my New York apartment
building carrying a folding table and a big sign reading GRAMMAR TABLE. I
crossed Broadway to a little park called Verdi Square, found a spot at the
(More...)
Rewilding: Before and after photos reveal stunning transformation of Scottish glen
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:22:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/rewilding-scotland-carrifren-biodiversity-woodland-b2133144.html>
"In recent years people have increasingly heard of rewilding, but may not have
seen the scale of the transformation it can have on a landscape.
(More...)
Business can no longer ignore extreme heat events – it’s becoming a danger to the bottom line
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:23:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/business-can-no-longer-ignore-extreme-heat-events-its-becoming-a-danger-to-the-bottom-line-188151>
"When record-breaking heatwaves cause train tracks to bend, airport runways to
buckle, and roads to melt, as happened in the United Kingdom last month, it is
likely that business performance will suffer.
(More...)
Green hydrogen has a leakage problem that may cancel out some of its climate gains
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:24:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/green-hydrogen-has-a-leakage-problem-that-may-cancel-out-some-of-its-climate-gains/>
"Hydrogen has emerged as the great white (or green) hope of the clean energy
transition due to its potential use in decarbonising hard-to-abate industries
like shipping, steel production, and even transport.
(More...)
The case for degrowth: stop the endless expansion and work with what our cities already have
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:25:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-case-for-degrowth-stop-the-endless-expansion-and-work-with-what-our-cities-already-have-187929>
"Australian cities are good at growing – for decades their states have relied
on it. The need to house more people is used to justify expansion out and up,
but it is the rates, taxes and duties that flow from land transfers and
(More...)
First 100,000 KG Removed From the Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:53:19 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theoceancleanup.com/updates/first-100000-kg-removed-from-the-great-pacific-garbage-patch/>
"Today, our operation in the Pacific Ocean reached an exciting milestone: The
Ocean Cleanup has now officially removed more than 100,000 kg of plastic from
the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP).
(More...)
“A Half-Built Garden”
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:54:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://doctorow.medium.com/a-half-built-garden-11b83512570b
"
A Half-Built Garden (published today) is Ruthanna Emrys’s new novel, a
spectacular first-contact novel about complicated utopias and networked
conflict — it’s a wild ride, and a perfect example of one of the smartest
(More...)
Blowhole wave energy generator exceeds expectations in 12-month test
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:55:50 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://newatlas.com/energy/blowhole-wave-energy-generator/
"Wave Swell Energy's remarkable UniWave 200 is a sea platform that uses an
artificial blowhole formation to create air pressure changes that drive a
turbine and feed energy back to shore. After a year of testing, the company
(More...)
Hydrogen 101: What it must do, what it might do, and what it probably won’t do
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:59:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/hydrogen-101-what-it-must-do-what-it-might-do-and-what-it-probably-wont-do/>
"Never have so many people got so excited about something so unremarkable.
Hydrogen, which makes up around three-quarters of all visible matter in the
(More...)
Pop icon Olivia Newton-John was the rare performer whose career flourished through different phases
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 12:00:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/pop-icon-olivia-newton-john-was-the-rare-performer-whose-career-flourished-through-different-phases-188428>
"Olivia Newton-John was a versatile artist with an appeal that spanned
generations, and who played an important role in claiming a space for
Australian popular culture on the world stage.
(More...)
aussie++
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 23:38:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://github.com/zackradisic/aussieplusplus
"
Key Features
* Syntax entirely comprised of Australian lingo and slang
(More...)
How religious worship is boosting conservation in India
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 23:40:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20220726-how-religious-worship-is-boosting-conservation-in-india>
'Chirping birds, a cool breeze, huge trees and gushing water welcome Anyam
Sridevi and her family to the Pallalamma temple in Andhra Pradesh in southern
India. They are carrying colourful baskets filled with flowers and food –
(More...)
NZ children face a ‘perfect storm’ of dangerous diseases as immunisation rates fall
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 23:41:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/nz-children-face-a-perfect-storm-of-dangerous-diseases-as-immunisation-rates-fall-188157>
"Routine childhood immunisations have dropped so dramatically globally during
the COVID-19 pandemic that the World Health Organization and UNICEF are raising
the alarm.
(More...)
From future lawyer to betrothed to a Taliban fighter: August in Kabul shows how life changed overnight for so many in Afghanistan
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 23:42:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Will this CHEAP New Technology Solve Battery Shortages?!
Mon, 29 Aug 2022 23:43:36 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBE0NADjSrE
"As we see more and more electric vehicles on the road and a growing demand for
home energy storage, car companies and cell manufacturers are having to think
carefully about the availability, cost and supply chain for the core
(More...)
India Plans $10 Billion Electric Bus Contract to Curb Emissions
Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:26:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-07-20/india-plans-10-billion-electric-bus-contract-to-curb-emissions>
"State-controlled Convergence Energy Services Ltd. is planning a $10-billion
tender for 50,000 electric buses that will drive India’s plans to decarbonize
public transport and help meet its goals for net zero emissions.
(More...)
Porsche Says Its EVs Will Soon Be More Profitable Than Its Gas-Powered Cars
Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:29:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://e360.yale.edu/digest/porsche-evs-profits
"Porsche expects that, within two years, its electric cars will be as
profitable as its conventional cars, and that within five years, its electric
cars will prove even more profitable.
(More...)
Australia has been crying out for a national housing plan, and new council is a big step towards having one
Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:29:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australia-has-been-crying-out-for-a-national-housing-plan-and-new-council-is-a-big-step-towards-having-one-188365>
"The federal government’s confirmation on Monday that it will set up a National
Housing Supply and Affordability Council has not received much media or public
attention. But, dollar for dollar, it might be the year’s most important and
(More...)
A new Australian supercomputer has already delivered a stunning supernova remnant pic
Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:30:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-new-australian-supercomputer-has-already-delivered-a-stunning-supernova-remnant-pic-188375>
"Within 24 hours of accessing the first stage of Australia’s newest
supercomputing system, researchers have processed a series of radio telescope
observations, including a highly detailed image of a supernova remnant.
(More...)
It’s time to tax mining and energy giants properly. Struggling Australians should share in their record profits
Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:32:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/aug/10/its-time-to-properly-tax-mining-and-gas-giants-australians-shouldnt-suffer-as-those-companies-profit>
"It’s never too late to fix a problem. It doesn’t matter if it’s you who has
been putting off a trip to the doctor or your country that has been putting off
properly taxing its natural resources, it really is better late than never.
(More...)
🎉 25,000 posts! 🎉
Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:40:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
We've just passed 25,000 posts to this mailing list / blog. Thank you everyone
for supporting us over the years! And tell your friends if you think they
would enjoy it too.
Please note that you can reply to the list address if you're happy having your
(More...)
Europe’s New Trams Are Reviving a Golden Age of Transit
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 01:47:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/europe-tram-systems-revival/
"At the heart of Strasbourg, France stands a 466-foot tall, 588-year-old
Rayonnant Gothic cathedral that draws tourists from over the world to gaze at
its intricate carvings, ornate stained glass and massive astrological clock.
(More...)
A Wandering Conservationist’s Quest to Protect the World’s Soil
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 01:48:06 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/soil-health-food-security-agriculture-sadhguru/>
"On a blistering day in June, a lone motorcycle roared into the southern Indian
city of Coimbatore. The rider, a 64-year-old man who goes only by the name
Sadhguru, was greeted by cheering crowds. He had come all the way from London
(More...)
Backyard hens’ eggs contain 40 times more lead on average than shop eggs, research finds
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 01:48:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/backyard-hens-eggs-contain-40-times-more-lead-on-average-than-shop-eggs-research-finds-187442>
"There’s nothing like the fresh eggs from your own hens, the more than 400,000
Australians who keep backyard chooks will tell you. Unfortunately, it’s often
not just freshness and flavour that set their eggs apart from those in the
(More...)
Once the fish factories and ‘kidneys’ of colder seas, Australia’s decimated shellfish reefs are coming back
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 01:49:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/once-the-fish-factories-and-kidneys-of-colder-seas-australias-decimated-shellfish-reefs-are-coming-back-184063>
"Australia once had vast oyster and mussel reefs, which anchored marine
ecosystems and provided a key food source for coastal First Nations people. But
after colonisation, Europeans harvested them for their meat and shells and
(More...)
Why Electronics Rely on Glue—and Why They Shouldn’t
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 01:50:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.ifixit.com/News/63249/why-electronics-rely-on-glue
"Glue can fix a lot of everyday problems. It’ll stick a broken vase back
together, help you make a sweet collage, and it often keeps your electronics in
one piece. Key word: one piece. Adhesives aren’t very forgiving. Maybe your
(More...)
Let's get organized
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 11:56:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1476271438814498822.html
'The entire world is telling us, each and every day, that the biggest problems
we face have individual solutions, from masks to carbon footprints. And of
course it feels overwhelming, because none of us is capable of fixing the
(More...)
Pakistan’s Mangroves Are a Coastal Conservation Marvel
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 11:58:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/pakistans-mangroves-coastal-conservation-climate-change/>
"Just two decades ago, the waterfront of Miani Hor, a swampy lagoon along the
Arabian Sea coastline in Pakistan’s western province of Balochistan, was no
more than a barren strip of land nearly devoid of vegetation. Today, it is
(More...)
Experts say the net zero concept is often used to delay taking action against emissions
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 11:59:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-11/net-zero-has-zero-chance-of-saving-us-from-climate-change/101288116>
'As large parts of Europe and North America swelter and then ignite, a future
of endless climate destruction seems inevitable.
(More...)
We need to talk about monkeypox without shame and blame
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 12:00:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-need-to-talk-about-monkeypox-without-shame-and-blame-188295>
"The recent global outbreak of monkeypox largely among men who have sex with
men has raised concerns homophobia will undermine effective prevention efforts.
There are also fears the disease will fuel homophobic stigma and
(More...)
Reversing the Freight Train
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 12:03:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.lrb.co.uk/the-paper/v44/n16/geoff-mann/reversing-the-freight-train>
"It is hard to know how to talk about modern economies without talking about
growth: productivity, entrepreneurial ‘risk-taking’ and the profit-driven cycle
of expansion and accumulation. Economic growth is understood to be a natural or
(More...)
Sexual exploitation by UN peacekeepers in DRC: fatherless children speak for first time about the pain of being abandoned
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:17:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sexual-exploitation-by-un-peacekeepers-in-drc-fatherless-children-speak-for-first-time-about-the-pain-of-being-abandoned-188248>
Trigger warning: This article discusses a difficult systemic issue involving
child sexual abuse in considerable depth with many quotes describing
distressing situations, incuding rape.
(More...)
Who’s holding back electric cars in Australia? We’ve long known the answer – and it’s time to clear the road
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:18:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/whos-holding-back-electric-cars-in-australia-weve-long-known-the-answer-and-its-time-to-clear-the-road-188443>
"New analysis this week found strong fuel efficiency standards would have saved
Australia A$5.9 billion in fuel costs and emissions equal to a year’s worth of
domestic flights if the policy was adopted in 2015.
(More...)
Ice shelves hold back Antarctica’s glaciers from adding to sea levels – but they’re crumbling
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:19:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ice-shelves-hold-back-antarcticas-glaciers-from-adding-to-sea-levels-but-theyre-crumbling-185509>
"As Antarctica’s slow rivers of ice hit the sea, they float, forming ice
shelves. These shelves extend the glaciers into the ocean until they calve into
icebergs.
(More...)
Sending teens to maximum security prisons shows Australia needs to raise the age of criminal responsibility
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:20:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sending-teens-to-maximum-security-prisons-shows-australia-needs-to-raise-the-age-of-criminal-responsibility-187768>
"Australia’s juvenile detention centres have been under the spotlight since
2016, when
ABC Four Corners revealed the treatment of inmates at Darwin’s Don
Dale Youth Detention Centre. The children were being stripped naked, tied to
(More...)
The US has finally passed a huge climate bill. Australia needs to keep up
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:21:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
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