Glass Wings Blog: March 2023
Australia’s loneliest tree is also one of the world’s rarest
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 15:02:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/news/australias-loneliest-tree-mongarlowe-mallee>
"Meet the Mongarlowe mallee. With only six individuals in existence, it may be
Australia’s loneliest tree. It also poses the question – what can we do for a
species that has so few individuals left?
(More...)
6,000 words but silent on falling real wages: what Chalmers got wrong on ‘values-based capitalism’ and fixing our economic woes
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 15:03:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/6-000-words-but-silent-on-falling-real-wages-what-chalmers-got-wrong-on-values-based-capitalism-and-fixing-our-economic-woes-199270>
"Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ recent essay in
The Monthly, “Capitalism
after the crises”, tells us a lot about economic predicament faced by the
Albanese government and governments around the world.
(More...)
Brazil ministers to visit site of Dom Phillips and Bruno Pereira’s murder
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 15:05:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/feb/16/dom-phillips-bruno-pereiras-brazil-ministers-visit-site-murder>
"Indigenous activists are planning to take some of Brazil’s top ministers to
the spot where Dom Phillips and Bruno Pereira were murdered in the Amazon
rainforest amid reports security forces are poised to launch a major
(More...)
Sea Ice Surrounding Antarctica Hit a New Record Low, Putting Ice Shelves at Risk
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 15:09:56 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/sea-ice-surrounding-antarctica-hit-a-new-record-low-putting-ice-shelves-at-risk>
'The Antarctic Ocean area covered by ice has shrunk to a record low, exposing
the thicker ice shelves buttressing Antarctica's ground ice sheet to waves and
warmer temperatures, scientists reported Thursday.
(More...)
Why every Fortune 500 business needs a chief AI officer
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 15:14:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.fastcompany.com/90847356/every-fortune-500-business-needs-a-chief-ai-officer>
"I strongly believe that 2023 is the year when artificial intelligence will
shift from a Silicon Valley toy into a priority for virtually every business
that wants to avoid becoming the Blockbuster of their industry. After a year of
(More...)
Before "The Last of Us", I was part of an international team to chart the threat of killer fungi. This is what we found
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 22:28:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/before-the-last-of-us-i-was-part-of-an-international-team-to-chart-the-threat-of-killer-fungi-this-is-what-we-found-199593>
"Fungal infections have received a frenzy of attention thanks to the popularity
of HBO’s
The Last of Us. The show depicts a fungal pandemic caused by the
real-life zombie-ant fungus,
Ophiocordyceps unilateralis. It imagines the
(More...)
Call for urgent overhaul of Australia’s monitoring of ‘astronomical’ plastic pollution
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 22:43:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/feb/17/call-for-urgent-overhaul-of-australias-monitoring-of-astronomical-plastic-pollution-problem>
"The Australian Academy of Science has called for an overhaul of the nation’s
approach to studying plastic pollution, warning there is an over-reliance on
volunteers and a lack of consistent data to document the “astronomical”
(More...)
Stop tossing your spent vapes and e-cigs: you’re breeding a new waste pandemic
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 22:53:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/stop-tossing-your-spent-vapes-and-e-cigs-youre-breeding-a-new-waste-pandemic-199956>
"Vaping, or using electronic cigarettes, not only pollutes the surrounding air,
it also creates a new contaminated e-waste stream.
(More...)
Santos whistleblower accuses company of covering up extent of Australian oil spill that killed dolphins
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 22:54:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/feb/16/santos-whistleblower-accuses-company-of-covering-up-extent-of-australian-oil-spill-that-killed-dolphins>
"A Santos employee has sought protection from federal parliament to accuse the
Australian oil and gas company of covering up the severity of an oil spill that
killed dolphins off the northern Western Australian coast.
(More...)
SBS butchered my movie, and there’s nothing I can do about it
Wed, 1 Mar 2023 22:56:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.smh.com.au/culture/movies/sbs-butchered-my-movie-and-there-s-nothing-i-can-do-about-it-20230216-p5cl6r.html>
"A friend contacted me this week to say she’d watched my film
Sleeping Beauty
on SBS World Movies last weekend. “Oh no,” I said. “They always butcher it.”
(More...)
The Future of Long COVID
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 06:25:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2023/02/long-covid-cases-treatment-chronic-illness-emergency/673032/>
"In the early spring of 2020, the condition we now call long COVID didn’t have
a name, much less a large community of patient advocates. For the most part,
clinicians dismissed its symptoms, and researchers focused on SARS-CoV-2
(More...)
How Indian health-care workers use WhatsApp to save pregnant women
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 06:27:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/laYpo
"Hirabai Koli’s medical reports were normal—but she wasn’t happy.
She had been monitoring her weight over the first two months of her pregnancy,
and she surprised community health-care worker Suraiyya Terdale when she asked
(More...)
Advantages and challenges of anti-Covid nasal vaccination: the promises of a French approach
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 06:28:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/advantages-and-challenges-of-anti-covid-nasal-vaccination-the-promises-of-a-french-approach-197746>
"Contrary to the widely shared popular belief, the primary purpose of current
vaccines against Covid-19 is solely to protect against serious forms of the
disease in order to prevent the risk of hospitalisations and death… and not to
(More...)
Finland passes new, progressive trans rights laws on gender recognition
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 06:30:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.euronews.com/2023/02/01/finland-passes-new-progressive-trans-rights-laws-on-gender-recognition>
"Finland has passed a new, progressive rights law which makes it substantially
easier for trans people to change their legal gender.
(More...)
Chinese monks get electricity for the first time, thanks to solar
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 06:31:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/chinese-monks-get-electricity-for-the-first-time-thanks-to-solar>
"YUNNAN, China – It takes three hours of hiking along rock stairs and muddy
walkways to reach Boluo Temple in the Chinese city of Dali where, by some
accounts, monks have lived since as early as the Tang Dynasty.
(More...)
Framework’s Latest Upgrade Shows a Promising Future for the Self-Repairable Laptop Brand
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 14:23:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2023/02/frameworks-latest-upgrade-shows-a-promising-future-for-the-self-repairable-laptop-brand/>
"Tech waste is a real thing, and while the majority of tech companies are
focussed on making the next thinnest, fastest, or most powerful laptop,
Framework is doing things a little differently. The San Francisco based company
(More...)
‘A disease’: Caste discrimination in Australia is on the rise – but some are fighting back
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 14:24:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/18/a-disease-caste-discrimination-in-australia-is-on-the-rise-but-some-are-fighting-back>
"When Rakesh Kumar migrated to Australia from Punjab in India 16 years ago, the
discrimination followed him. Before he could even enter the house he would be
staying in he was asked: “What is your caste?”
(More...)
Covid-19: Australia’s future policies will be evidence led after “profound impact” of latest wave, says minister
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 14:25:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bmj.com/content/380/bmj.p333
"Australia needs to “learn the lessons” of the latest covid wave, which lasted
longer than expected and had “a very profound impact on the community, on the
hospital system, on the aged care system, and on the thousands of families who
(More...)
Major Victory for Immigrant Workers in the US
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 14:26:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/01/18/major-victory-immigrant-workers-us
"In a major victory for workers, the United States Department of Homeland
Security (DHS) announced new guidance last week that allows migrant and
immigrant workers who experience or witness workplace labor or civil rights
(More...)
Treating kids as invulnerable is treating them as disposable
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 14:28:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://calgaryherald.com/opinion/columnists/opinion-treating-kids-as-invulnerable-is-treating-them-as-disposable>
"Parents often believe in a societal fiction that children will just be OK and
will live healthy lives. This can help cope with the anxieties of raising
children.
(More...)
We need a lot more electricians if we’re going to electrify everything
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 22:24:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/clean-energy-jobs/we-need-a-lot-more-electricians-if-were-going-to-electrify-everything>
"Chanpory Rith, a 42-year-old product designer at the software company
Airtable, bought a house in Berkeley, California with his partner at the end of
2020. The couple wasn’t planning to buy, but when Covid hit and they began
(More...)
CAKE's Sinje Gottwald completes the first unassisted African continent crossing on an electric motorcycle
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 22:26:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://ridecake.com/en-US/first-solo-un-assisted-africa-continent-crossing-on-an-electric-motorcycle>
"CAKE B2B Account Manager Sinje Gottwald has achieved a remarkable milestone in
riding the longest distance ever on an electric motorcycle, after completing
her 124-day journey along the West Coast of Africa on the CAKE Kalk AP.
(More...)
Why kites could be the next big thing for wind power
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 22:28:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvbgoJMQm9E
"High up in the sky we find gigantic resources of energy which are untapped so
far. How can we harvest these hidden and never-ending resources? Companies are
racing to exploit the potential of this high-altitude wind power."
(More...)
An activist group is spreading misinformation to stop solar projects in rural America
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 22:30:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/2023/02/18/1154867064/solar-power-misinformation-activists-rural-america>
'Roger Houser's ranching business was getting squeezed. The calves he raises in
Virginia's Shenandoah Valley were selling for about the same price they had a
few years earlier, while costs for essentials like fuel and fertilizer kept
(More...)
Floating PV reduces water evaporation in Brazilian reservoir by 60%
Thu, 2 Mar 2023 22:31:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/7IFTq
"Scientists from State University of Ponta Grossa in Brazil and the University
of Louisiana in the United States have jointly investigated the impact of
floating solar on the water evaporation rate in reservoirs.
(More...)
Harry Potter and The Rehabilitation of Rowling
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 06:35:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://christopherkeelty.medium.com/harry-potter-and-the-rehabilitation-of-rowling-458682d91efd>
"A few days ago, a new
Harry Potter video game hit the market, and purely by
coincidence today we got an “Opinion” piece in the
New York Times by Pamela
Paul, “In Defense of J.K. Rowling.” It points readers to the new podcast, “The
(More...)
Oceans of Energy gets Bureau Veritas’ nod of approval for offshore floating solar system
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 06:36:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.offshore-energy.biz/oceans-of-energy-gets-bureau-veritas-nod-of-approval-for-offshore-floating-solar-system/>
"Certification group Bureau Veritas has issued a world’s first ‘approval in
principle’ for a high-wave offshore solar farm system design to a Dutch-based
company Oceans of Energy.
(More...)
Ten facts humanity must face if it wants to survive on a livable planet
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 06:37:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://sjgenco.medium.com/ten-facts-humanity-must-face-if-it-wants-to-survive-on-a-livable-planet-5de93b2f4cde>
"I’ve had a gratifying response to my seven-part series on “the future of
humanity”, but I’ve also had more than one request to boil it all down to a
single post so all the tl;dr folks out there can absorb the basic argument
(More...)
Scientists Developing Floating Solar Farms That Can Withstand Rough Oceans
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 06:39:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.ecowatch.com/floating-solar-farms-oceans.html
"Floating solar farms are solar panels that are installed on the surface of
bodies of water — such as lakes and reservoirs — to save space on land or
provide electricity to remote locations.
(More...)
“Open Source” Seeds Loosen Big Ag’s Grip on Farmers
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 06:40:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://worldsensorium.com/open-source-seeds-loosen-big-ags-grip-on-farmers/>
"When Jack Kloppenburg looks out over his sprawling vegetable garden in rural
Wisconsin, he sees half a dozen arm-thick green-striped squash called
Candystick Dessert Delicata, and a gaggle of bright yellow Goldini squash among
(More...)
A kid in Guatemala had a dream. Today she's a disease detective
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 14:09:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2023/02/19/1153911199/a-kid-in-guatemala-had-a-dream-today-shes-a-disease-detective>
'Neudy Rojop, 29, stands on a bumpy, cobbled lane in Guatemala in the small
rural village of San Rafael Pacayá. It leads to the home where she grew up and
where she still lives today.
(More...)
Research Finds Big Oil’s Trade Group Allies Outspent Clean Energy By A Whopping 27x
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 14:12:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://talkingpointsmemo.com/cafe/big-oil-trade-groups-spending
"You’ve probably seen ads promoting gas and oil companies as the solutions to
climate change. They’re meant to be inspiring and hopeful, with scenes of a
green, clean future.
(More...)
I’m descended from a Baloch-Afghan cameleer and a Badimiya Yamitji woman: they battled racist government policies to save our family
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 14:13:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Bernie Sanders: ‘Oligarchs run Russia. But guess what? They run the US as well’
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 14:15:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/feb/19/bernie-sanders-oligarchs-ok-angry-about-capitalism-interview>
"After the State of the Union address at the beginning of this month, the
Wall
Street Journal ran an opinion piece that argued: “Joe Biden
is Bernie
Sanders.” By this it meant that, somehow, by stealth, under the cover of
(More...)
Two women, one Social Security number, and a mighty big mess
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 14:16:25 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/two-women-one-social-security-number-mighty-big-mess-rcna70808>
"They have the same name. They were born on the same day in South Korea. And
they were both assigned the same Social Security number after they emigrated to
the United States.
(More...)
Do beach cabanas actually protect you from the sun?
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 23:04:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/do-beach-cabanas-actually-protect-you-from-the-sun-199102>
"You may have seen them popping up on beaches everywhere – colourful, breezy,
shady, beach cabanas.
(More...)
‘Everyone’s pretty gutted’: New Zealanders struggle to pick up pieces after Cyclone Gabrielle
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 23:05:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/feb/19/everyones-pretty-gutted-new-zealanders-struggle-to-pick-up-pieces-after-cyclone-gabrielle>
"Everywhere, strewn across the valleys and plains, there are apples. Red
spheres line the roads and stud the drying mud. They are strung like beads on
the fences, impaled on the barbed wire. As the flood waters rose, people waded
(More...)
Mapping Iran’s biodiversity hotspots to create new protected areas covering 20% of the landscape
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 23:05:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/mapping-irans-biodiversity-hotspots-to-create-new-protected-areas-covering-20-of-the-landscape-198988>
"Iran’s ancient forests, rugged mountains, vast deserts and captivating coasts
are rich in biodiversity, including animals found nowhere else on Earth. But
many of these precious areas are not formally protected from development,
(More...)
The never-ending fallout of the northern rivers floods: ‘People are just worn down’
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 23:06:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/20/the-never-ending-fallout-of-the-lismore-floods-people-are-just-worn-down>
"In February the hills and valleys of the New South Wales northern rivers are
green and lush and fertile in the late summer sun. There is brightness in the
madly proliferating tropical flora, radiance in the golden hour of the evening.
(More...)
Letters from an American: February 19, 2023
Fri, 3 Mar 2023 23:07:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/february-19-2023
"Today in the
Washington Post, Nick Anderson showed how the Advanced
Placement course on African American studies changed between February 2022,
when its prototype first appeared, and February 2023, when the official version
(More...)
Australian government urged to ‘stop playing with people’s lives’ as people returned to detention
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 06:38:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/19/australian-government-urged-to-stop-playing-with-peoples-lives-as-people-returned-to-detention>
"Lawyers have called on the Australian government to “stop playing with
people’s lives” as it moves to re-detain dozens of people who were released
from immigration detention over Christmas.
(More...)
After a big recovery, the wood stork may soon fly off the endangered species list
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 06:39:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/2023/02/14/1157052550/wood-stork-endangered-species-list>
"ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The ungainly yet graceful wood stork, which was on the
brink of extinction in 1984, has recovered sufficiently in Florida and other
Southern states that U.S. wildlife officials on Tuesday proposed removing the
(More...)
Ukraine war 12 months on: the role of the Russian media in reporting – and justifying – the conflict
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 06:40:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ukraine-war-12-months-on-the-role-of-the-russian-media-in-reporting-and-justifying-the-conflict-199820>
"The media war that has accompanied Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has shown how
important a part of 21st-century conflict journalism is, and also demonstrated
the power authoritarian regimes possess to restrict reporting – even in the age
(More...)
Like Finland, Imagine Everything That Could Go Wrong
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 06:41:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/13/opinion/earthquake-natural-disaster.html>
"Each day, the reported death toll from the earthquake in Turkey and Syria
grows. It’s not just a local tragedy killing people far away. Natural disasters
have struck, and will strike, around the world — including in the United
(More...)
Many Personal Care Products Contain Harmful Chemicals. Here’s What to Do About It.
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 06:42:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/15/well/live/personal-care-products-chemicals.html>
"Every day, we use soaps, lotions, deodorants, hair products and cosmetics on
various parts of our bodies. But in recent years, an increasing number of
reports have raised concerns about many of them.
(More...)
In Europe’s Clean Energy Transition, Industry Looks to Heat Pumps
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 14:46:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://e360.yale.edu/features/europe-industrial-heat-pumps
"The Wienerberger brickworks in Uttendorf, Austria, in the Tyrolean Alps, has
always required a steady stream of 90 degree C (194 degree F) heat to dry its
construction blocks. This process would have been an expensive proposition for
(More...)
From fiction to reality: Could airships be the key to greener travel?
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 14:48:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://grist.org/looking-forward/from-fiction-to-reality-could-airships-be-the-key-to-greener-travel/>
"Last month, we hosted our second Looking Forward book club gathering,
exploring Kim Stanley Robinson’s
Ministry for the Future. Stan himself joined
us to talk about how he approached writing science fiction set just a few
(More...)
Connecting Europe by train: 10 EU pilot services to boost cross-border rail
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 14:49:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://transport.ec.europa.eu/news/connecting-europe-train-10-eu-pilot-services-boost-cross-border-rail-2023-01-31_en>
"The European Commission today announced it will support 10 pilot projects to
establish new rail services or improve existing ones. Together, they will
improve cross-border rail connections across the EU, making them faster, more
(More...)
The Walker Library: Video Tour
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 14:51:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
http://www.walkerdigital.com/the-walker-library_video-tour.html
"A visit to the Walker Library of the History of Human Imagination is a
celebration of human invention. The Library contains some 20,000 volumes and
hundreds of museum-level books, manuscripts, maps and artifacts. These precious
(More...)
Reptile loss is a big deal on small islands
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 14:52:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.futurity.org/reptile-loss-islands-2877892-2/
"The disappearance of even a few reptile species has a serious impact on some
island areas, an examination of ancient and current species finds.
(More...)
A year on, Russia’s war on Ukraine threatens to redraw the map of world politics – and 2023 will be crucial
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 22:25:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-year-on-russias-war-on-ukraine-threatens-to-redraw-the-map-of-world-politics-and-2023-will-be-crucial-197682>
"Wars are world-shaping. Beyond their immediate human and physical tolls, wars
alter the fates of societies and states; of clans, cultures and leaders. They
establish new lines of access to resources and influence, determining who has
(More...)
It’s not Orwellian for publishers to edit Roald Dahl, just commercially savvy
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 22:26:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/feb/20/roald-dahl-industry-classics-parents>
"Handing down beloved books to your children is one of the best things about
being a parent. And so like countless others raised on Willy Wonka’s golden
ticket and the BFG’s jars of dreams, of course I was thrilled to relive the
(More...)
Canadian registry of wrongful convictions shines light on cases the headlines miss
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 22:28:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2023/02/20/canadian-registry-of-wrongful-convictions-shines-light-on-cases-the-headlines-miss.html>
"A first-ever comprehensive Canadian registry of wrongful convictions shows 18
per cent of remedied cases were due to false guilty pleas and a third of all
cases involved “imagined” crimes that never happened. Many of these cases
(More...)
A Concerning Trend
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 22:31:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
http://neil-clarke.com/a-concerning-trend/
"Since the early days of the pandemic, I’ve observed an increase in the number
of spammy submissions to
Clarkesworld. What I mean by that is that there’s an
honest interest in being published, but not in having to do the actual work. Up
(More...)
Ride-share companies are losing billions, so why their interest in unprofitable public transport?
Sat, 4 Mar 2023 22:32:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ride-share-companies-are-losing-billions-so-why-their-interest-in-unprofitable-public-transport-132664>
"Why do Uber, Lyft, Didi, OLA and other ride-sharing companies want to partner
with public transport agencies? For Uber and Lyft, the reason is simple: their
business plans were based on eventually using driverless vehicles to eliminate
(More...)
‘This is a part of history’: Kyiv citizens delighted by Joe Biden’s surprise visit
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 10:44:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/feb/20/this-is-a-part-of-history-kyiv-citizens-delighted-by-joe-biden-surprise-visit>
"After a week of freezing temperatures, Kyiv woke on Monday morning to a
perfect blue sky. Spring had arrived. And so had someone else. The centre of
the Ukrainian capital with its cobbled streets and ethereal gold-domed churches
(More...)
Radioactive waste isn’t going away. We’ve found a new way to trap it in minerals for long-term storage
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 10:45:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/radioactive-waste-isnt-going-away-weve-found-a-new-way-to-trap-it-in-minerals-for-long-term-storage-200255>
"There are around 440 nuclear power plants operating in 32 countries around the
world, supplying some 10% of the world’s electricity. Another 60 reactors are
under construction, and 300 more are proposed.
(More...)
Australia at risk of electricity supply shortages as renewable projects lag behind coal plant closures
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 10:47:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/20/australia-at-risk-of-electricity-supply-shortages-as-renewable-projects-lag-behind-coal-plant-closures>
"Australia’s main electricity grid will probably avoid major supply shortages
next summer but risks escalate in later years as ageing coal plants exit
potentially faster than new renewables and storage projects come on line.
(More...)
Would a nature repair market really work? Evidence suggests it’s highly unlikely
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 10:48:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/would-a-nature-repair-market-really-work-evidence-suggests-its-highly-unlikely-199975>
"Why should governments do all of the heavy lifting to arrest the steep decline
of many ecosystems? Endangered species live on private land too – so why not
give farmers and landholders incentives to look after them and restore habitat?
(More...)
Deal to curb harmful fishing devices a ‘huge win’ for yellowfin tuna stocks
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 10:49:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/feb/08/deal-to-curb-harmful-fishing-devices-a-huge-win-for-yellowfin-tuna-stocks>
"Coastal nations and conservation groups have described an agreement to
restrict fishing vessels from using devices that contribute to overfishing as a
“huge win” for tuna populations and marine life.
(More...)
From the dingo to the Tasmanian devil - why we should be rewilding carnivores
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 10:50:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
What Australia learned from recent devastating floods – and how New Zealand can apply those lessons now
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 18:21:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/what-australia-learned-from-recent-devastating-floods-and-how-new-zealand-can-apply-those-lessons-now-200078>
"Australia and New Zealand have both faced a series of devastating floods
triggered by climate change and the return of the La Niña weather pattern. So
it makes sense that Australia has now sent disaster crews to help with the
(More...)
Canada is set to make a massive protected area official — and it’s underwater
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 18:23:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://thenarwhal.ca/largest-permanent-protected-area-canada/
"
The Tang.ɢwan-ḥačxʷiqak-Tsig̱is marine protected area will be 133,000 square
kilometres, covering underwater mountain ranges and alien ecosystems
(More...)
Leiji Matsumoto, known for antiwar anime, space tales, dies
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 18:25:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/animation-and-comics-obituaries-tv-japan-tokyo-e74ddec2cc5d2f9cf50031cea5ed33ce>
"TOKYO (AP) — Leiji Matsumoto, the anime creator known for ”Space Battleship
Yamato” and other classics using a fantastical style and antiwar themes, has
died at age 85.
(More...)
The Tragedy of the "Tragedy of the Commons"
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 18:26:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/voices/the-tragedy-of-the-tragedy-of-the-commons/>
"Fifty years ago, University of California professor Garrett Hardin penned an
influential essay in the journal
Science. Hardin saw all humans as selfish
herders: we worry that our neighbors’ cattle will graze the best grass. So, we
(More...)
What if Competition Isn’t As “Natural” As We Think?
Sun, 5 Mar 2023 18:28:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://slate.com/technology/2020/01/darwin-competition-collaboration-evolutionary-biology-climate-change.html>
"You have probably heard the story of Darwin’s intrepid voyage to the Galapagos
Islands. On those rocky outcroppings far off the South American coast, Darwin
noticed small variations in the beaks of a few finches, unlocking, we are told,
(More...)
‘Special thanks’: how comic book writers and artists are forgotten during the superhero film boom
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 02:29:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/special-thanks-how-comic-book-writers-and-artists-are-forgotten-during-the-superhero-film-boom-198997>
"When the new creative head of DC Studios, James Gunn, announced their upcoming
slate of films and TV, it included many names you might expect: Superman,
Batman, maybe even Swamp Thing.
(More...)
Great Bear Sea: vast new marine zone a ‘mindset shift’ for conservation
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 02:30:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/feb/07/canada-plans-protect-vast-marine-zone-great-bear-sea-project>
"Nearly a decade ago, Canadian political leaders, environmental activists and
Indigenous nations came together to shelter a sprawling 6.4 million-hectare
area of trees, sea wolves, salmon and grizzly bears – a project that was named,
(More...)
Parliamentary inquiry hears of impacts of long Covid
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 02:32:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.news.com.au/world/coronavirus/parliamentary-inquiry-hears-of-impacts-of-long-covid/news-story/6168cb0b0977373270f9c2b2a5704b6c>
"Medical experts have called for a national body which would be allowed to set
minimum standards for indoor air quality, as a parliamentary inquiry faced
warnings Australia will battle cyclical waves of Covid-19 which will cause
(More...)
‘A century in the making’: Canada adds federal protection to Indigenous-declared marine refuge
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 02:33:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://thenarwhal.ca/bc-marine-refuge-rare-corals/
"In late 2021, the Mamalilikulla First Nation unilaterally declared protections
for a 10,416-hectare tract of land and sea north of Vancouver Island off the
coast of British Columbia under Indigenous law. The nation, eager to reconnect
(More...)
Will the Turkish earthquakes affect how the country is governed?
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 02:34:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/will-the-turkish-earthquakes-affect-how-the-country-is-governed-199946>
"As the death toll in the Turkey-Syria earthquakes spirals past a record 46,000
– and a fresh earthquake has struck the Turkish region of Hatay – there is
mounting criticism of the Turkish government and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
(More...)
Monty Python meets Kraftwerk: Introducing Australia’s new Eurovision entry
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 10:21:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theage.com.au/culture/music/monty-python-meets-kraftwerk-introducing-australia-s-new-eurovision-entry-20230221-p5cmae.html>
"Since Australia’s debut in the Eurovision Song Contest eight years ago, we
have fielded a raft of ballad-singing solo acts, including Guy Sebastian,
Jessica Mauboy and Kate Miller-Heidke. And while Dami Im came close, placing
(More...)
Viral Instagram photographer has a confession: His photos are AI-generated
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 10:22:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2023/02/viral-instagram-photographer-has-a-confession-his-photos-are-ai-generated/>
'With over 26,000 followers and growing, Jos Avery's Instagram account has a
trick up its sleeve. While it may appear to showcase stunning photo portraits
of people, they are not actually people at all. Avery has been posting
(More...)
What Europe showed the world about renewable energy
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 10:23:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.vox.com/climate/2023/2/21/23594544/europe-electricity-natural-gas-renewable-energy-russia>
"One year ago, on the cusp of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it seemed
unimaginable that renewable energy in Europe could overtake electricity from
oil and gas.
(More...)
How Monopoly Destroys Democracy
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 10:24:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://prospect.org/blogs-and-newsletters/tap/how-monopoly-destroys-democracy/>
"My granddaughter, who is in the eighth grade, competes in a relatively new
sport known as Cheer, a kind of cross between traditional cheerleading and
competitive gymnastics. You are probably aware of Cheer, but you may not be
(More...)
You’ve read the scary headlines – but rest assured, your cookware is safe
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 10:25:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/youve-read-the-scary-headlines-but-rest-assured-your-cookware-is-safe-199967>
"“Are nonstick pans toxic”? “Can aluminium cookware cause dementia?” “Are my
scratched pans still safe?” That’s just a sample of a few worrying headlines
about the safety of our pots and pans recently.
(More...)
‘Theatre and pop at its absolute excess’: William Shakespeare meets Britney Spears as "& Juliet" comes to Australia
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 18:23:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2023/feb/21/theatre-and-pop-at-its-absolute-excess-the-broadway-hit-that-asks-what-if-juliet-just-got-on-with-it>
"It’s hard to think of a jukebox musical that has been touched by quite so many
pop stars. Since
& Juliet opened on the West End in 2019 and Broadway in
2022, Katy Perry, Adam Lambert, ‘N Sync and the Backstreet Boys have all come
(More...)
We got some key things wrong about long COVID. Here are 5 things we’ve learnt
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 18:24:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-got-some-key-things-wrong-about-long-covid-here-are-5-things-weve-learnt-199974>
"In late 2020 as we hid from COVID behind the moat of “fortress Australia”, we
started to hear that in some people, COVID symptoms persisted for months. They
were called “long haulers” or had “long COVID”.
(More...)
Putin says Russia will halt participation in New Start nuclear arms treaty
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 18:25:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/feb/21/putin-russia-halt-participation-new-start-nuclear-arms-treaty>
"Vladimir Putin has said Russia will halt its participation in New Start, the
last major remaining nuclear arms control treaty with the US, in a speech
devoted to the one-year anniversary of Russia’s large-scale invasion of
(More...)
Cate Blanchett Teaches You Australian Slang
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 18:26:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dti6XC15AWA
'Cate Blanchett schools us in Australian slang. From a "thingo" to a "pash,"
Lydia Tár has us feeling "mad as a cut snake" after this episode of Slang
School.'
(More...)
I tried the Replika AI companion and can see why users are falling hard. The app raises serious ethical questions
Mon, 6 Mar 2023 18:27:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/i-tried-the-replika-ai-companion-and-can-see-why-users-are-falling-hard-the-app-raises-serious-ethical-questions-200257>
"The warm light of friendship, intimacy and romantic love illuminates the best
aspects of being human – while also casting a deep shadow of possible
heartbreak.
(More...)
Majority of household appliances packaged in unsustainable material, Choice says
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 02:31:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/21/majority-of-household-appliances-packaged-in-unsustainable-material-choice-says>
"The majority of the country’s most popular appliances are being packaged in
unsustainable materials, a review by Choice has found, prompting the consumer
rights group to call for an urgent overhaul of how brands box their products.
(More...)
Landslides and law: Cyclone Gabrielle raises serious questions about where we’ve been allowed to build
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 02:32:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/landslides-and-law-cyclone-gabrielle-raises-serious-questions-about-where-weve-been-allowed-to-build-200250>
"Given the death toll, it’s important we consider the impacts of Cyclone
Gabrielle sensitively. But we must also begin looking into the history of
land-use and planning decisions in areas worst hit by landslides.
(More...)
Heat from an Amazon Data Center Is Warming Dublin’s Buildings
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 02:33:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/data-center-heat-green-energy/
"On January 3, 2023, the 5,000 students who attend Technological University
Dublin returned from their winter holiday to their cold suburban campus in
Tallaght. At a time of year when the temperature often falls to near freezing,
(More...)
We need to break the cycle of crisis in Aotearoa New Zealand’s arts and culture. It starts with proper funding
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 02:34:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-need-to-break-the-cycle-of-crisis-in-aotearoa-new-zealands-arts-and-culture-it-starts-with-proper-funding-199772>
"In times of crisis, arts, culture and creative experiences play an essential
role. Whether through a music gig, a performing arts festival, a visual art
exhibit or a well-thumbed book – these bring joy, comfort and relief in
(More...)
The Woman Who Brought Dirt to Harvard
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 02:35:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/mud-building-sustainable-cities-construction/>
"When Anna Heringer invited her architecture students to an excursion into the
Austrian Alps, she waited until they had reached a high plateau in the
mountains before she revealed a surprise: She hadn’t booked a hotel for the
(More...)
Why do we stop exploring new music as we get older?
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 10:20:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-do-we-stop-exploring-new-music-as-we-get-older-200080>
"According to an estimate from the International Federation of the Phonographic
Industry, an organisation that represents the international music industry,
people around the world spend on average 20.1 hours per week listening to
(More...)
By Adding Timber to Old Buildings, Stockholm Is Expanding Sustainably
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 10:21:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/stockholm-yells-timber-for-building-reuse/>
"A three-story red brick building has stood in Stockholm’s southern
neighborhood of Hammarby Sjöstad since 1928. Once a hosiery factory, the
Trikåfabriken building is the oldest remnant of the area’s industrial past.
(More...)
ChatGPT Has Already Decreased My Income Security, and Likely Yours Too
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 10:23:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.scottsantens.com/chatgpt-has-already-decreased-my-income-security/>
'Most of you have by now heard of ChatGPT already, but if you haven't, first
I'm happy to hear you're out of your coma, and second, it's what's called a
"generative artificial intelligence" that was built by OpenAI to generate
(More...)
These Museums Are Curated by The People They Represent
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 10:24:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/manchester-museum-south-asia-gallery-community-curated/>
"When Saira Qureshi heard that the Manchester Museum was looking for members of
the city’s South Asian community to curate a new gallery, she knew immediately
that she wanted to be involved.
(More...)
Peace in Ukraine doesn’t ultimately depend on Putin or Zelensky – it’s the Ukrainian people who must decide
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 10:25:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/peace-in-ukraine-doesnt-ultimately-depend-on-putin-or-zelensky-its-the-ukrainian-people-who-must-decide-200072>
"Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has now lasted for one year. As overwhelming
victory for either side looks unlikely, many are now calling for a negotiated
settlement to the war. For instance, China is promising details of a peace plan
(More...)
‘From flood to fires’: Locals anxious as firefighters race to tame blaze ahead of heatwave
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 18:24:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/firefighters-battle-raging-flowerdale-grassfire-in-tricky-terrain-20230222-p5cmfv.html>
"Fire authorities hope they can tame an out-of-control grass fire in central
Victoria on Thursday before a heatwave brings soaring temperatures and
heightened fire risk to the state.
(More...)
Returning a name to an artist: the work of Majumbu, a previously unknown Australian painter
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 18:25:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/returning-a-name-to-an-artist-the-work-of-majumbu-a-previously-unknown-australian-painter-199683>
"Arnhem Land rock and bark paintings have fascinated people across the world
since the early 1800s. Rock art was first recorded by Matthew Flinders and his
onboard artist William Westall at Chasm Island in January 1803 while they were
(More...)
‘In it for the ride’: who are Voyager, the synth-metal band representing Australia at Eurovision?
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 18:26:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2023/feb/22/in-it-for-the-ride-who-are-voyager-the-synth-metal-band-representing-australia-at-eurovision>
"“Synth-metal” is the short name for the genre of music played by the Perth
band Voyager, who have been chosen to represent Australia at this year’s
Eurovision contest.
(More...)
As livestock theft becomes a growing problem in rural Australia, new technologies offer hope
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 18:27:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/as-livestock-theft-becomes-a-growing-problem-in-rural-australia-new-technologies-offer-hope-200251>
"Last week, it was reported that 700 sheep with an estimated value of $140,000,
including nearly 200 valuable merino ewes, were stolen from a Victorian
property in a highly sophisticated rural crime operation. Such large-scale
(More...)
China's Covid Testing Booths Get Second Life as Libraries and Food Stalls
Tue, 7 Mar 2023 18:28:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-02-04/china-repurposes-pcr-testing-booths-as-covid-zero-era-ends>
"Tens of thousands of PCR testing booths are littered across China, with many
residents just a 15-minute walk away from a swabbing point. Now that Covid Zero
has abruptly ended, cities are left with the problem of what to do with them.
(More...)
With remote work here to stay, cities around America are faced with a difficult challenge.
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 02:20:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1628039903089987584.html
"With remote work here to stay, cities around America are faced with a
difficult challenge. Most office buildings won't be redeveloped into
residential (floor plates either can't be converted, or cost is prohibitive),
(More...)
ChatGPT on the subject of four-digit numbers
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 02:28:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://blog.plover.com/tech/gpt/four-digit-numbers.html
"Like everyone else I have been tinkering with ChatGPT. I doubt I have any
thoughts about it that are sufficiently original to be worth writing down. But
I thought it would be fun to showcase some of the exchanges I have had with it,
(More...)
Why security vetting in Australia can be detrimental to diversity
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 02:29:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-security-vetting-in-australia-can-be-detrimental-to-diversity-199782>
"The public sector union has levelled complaints at the Department of Foreign
Affairs and Trade (DFAT) this month, alleging that many diverse candidates
who’d been given a conditional offer into the graduate program were then denied
(More...)
Scientists' Letter for MAPS, the Marine Arctic Peace Sanctuary
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 02:30:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://parvati.org/scientists-letter-for-maps/
"This open letter is an emergency call for humanity to recognize the severe and
complex conditions of the Arctic Ocean which threaten the health of the entire
world. We stand in solidarity to establish the Marine Arctic Peace Sanctuary
(More...)
There could be alien life on Mars, but will our rovers be able to find it?
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 02:31:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/there-could-be-alien-life-on-mars-but-will-our-rovers-be-able-to-find-it-200338>
"Robotic rovers are currently exploring the surface of Mars. Part of a rover’s
mission is to survey the planet for signs of life. There might be nothing to
find – but what if there is, and the rovers just can’t “see” it?
(More...)
Why Tasmania and Victoria dominate the list of Australia’s largest trees – and why these majestic giants are under threat
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 10:25:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-tasmania-and-victoria-dominate-the-list-of-australias-largest-trees-and-why-these-majestic-giants-are-under-threat-200276>
"Australia has an extraordinary diversity of trees, with more than 820 species
of eucalypts alone. But not all trees are created equal. Some species can turn
into giants, like the majestic mountain ash (
Eucalyptus regnans) and the
(More...)
Could This Mobile, Solar-Powered Livestock Barn Reshape the Corn Belt?
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 10:26:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://civileats.com/2023/02/13/could-this-mobile-solar-powered-livestock-barn-reshape-the-corn-belt/>
"Last August, Zack Smith welcomed a group of farmers, agricultural researchers,
and investors to his mid-sized farm just south of the Iowa-Minnesota border for
a field day. It was warm out, shorts weather, and around 35 people sat on straw
(More...)
What if urban plans gave natural systems the space to recover from the cities built over them? It can be done
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 10:27:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/what-if-urban-plans-gave-natural-systems-the-space-to-recover-from-the-cities-built-over-them-it-can-be-done-199388>
"Our cities have altered their original landscapes so greatly that their
natural systems are profoundly compromised. These systems – such as swamps,
rivers, creeks, aquifers and bushland corridors – need more space to function
(More...)
Peru Makes Headway in the Fight Against Wildlife Trafficking
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 10:28:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://dialogo-americas.com/articles/peru-makes-headway-in-the-fight-against-wildlife-trafficking/>
"Peru became the first country in South America to expressly recognize wildlife
trafficking as part of a law against organized crime, said Oceana Peru, a
branch of the international organization for ocean conservation.
(More...)
Box Fan CR Box, PC Fan CR Box or HEPA Filter. Which one is right for you?
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 10:29:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://itsairborne.com/box-fan-cr-box-pc-fan-cr-box-or-hepa-filter-which-one-is-right-for-you-5d0de776935c>
"For portable air filtration devices, we have a few options at our disposal and
some work better than others in different situations. Here’s a breakdown of
when each one can work best."
(More...)
‘Audacious’ reforestation effort grows in Brazil
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 18:32:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.conservation.org/blog/audacious-reforestation-effort-grows-in-brazil>
"A bold initiative to regrow 73 million trees in the Brazilian Amazon has made
substantial progress despite some unexpected hurdles, according to an upcoming
report.
(More...)
Friday essay: ‘killed by Natives’. The stories – and violent reprisals – behind some of Australia’s settler memorials
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 18:33:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-killed-by-natives-the-stories-and-violent-reprisals-behind-some-of-australias-settler-memorials-198981>
"Some commemorations across this continent, despite their original intentions,
inadvertently testify to the fact that Aboriginal peoples did, in fact, “fight
back” and that colonisation was, in fact, violent. These commemorations
(More...)
Trinity College Dublin to return skulls stolen from Inishbofin
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 18:33:57 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/feb/23/trinity-college-dublin-to-return-skulls-stolen-from-inishbofin>
"Trinity College Dublin is to return skulls stolen a century ago from the Irish
island of Inishbofin, setting a possible precedent for other controversial
human remains and artefacts held by the university.
(More...)
Gas industry still talking garbage about big batteries, knowing they will kill its dirty cartel
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 18:37:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/gas-industry-still-talking-garbage-about-big-batteries-knowing-they-will-kill-its-dirty-cartel/>
"Australia is getting used to fossil fuel misinformation campaigns. They have
their foundations in the climate and technology denial and the protections of a
trillion dollar industry, and became a performative art under the federal
(More...)
From TV to TikTok, young people are exposed to gambling promotions everywhere
Wed, 8 Mar 2023 18:38:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/from-tv-to-tiktok-young-people-are-exposed-to-gambling-promotions-everywhere-200067>
I’ve walked past two TABs pretty much weekly, because one’s near our ice
cream shop and one’s next to the shopping centre. So, we go there a lot.
(More...)
Lessons on How to Draw by Hokusai
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 02:23:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://kottke.org/23/01/lessons-on-how-to-draw-by-hokusai
"In 1812, Japanese woodblock print artist Katsushika Hokusai, who would later
become famous for his iconic Great Wave off Kanagawa prints, published a
three-volume series called Quick Lessons in Simplified Drawing. All three
(More...)
FOSSDA: Preserving the history of open-source and free software
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 02:24:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://opensourcewatch.beehiiv.com/p/fossda-preserving-history-opensource-free-software>
"Today, we take for granted that open source is The way to create software. It
wasn't always that way. It wasn't just that people like then Microsoft CEO
Steve Ballmer, considered "Linux is a cancer," many didn't take open source
(More...)
This ‘climate-friendly’ fuel comes with an astronomical cancer risk
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 02:26:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/feb/23/climate-friendly-us-program-plastics-fuel-cancer>
"The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently gave a Chevron refinery the
green light to create fuel from discarded plastics as part of a
climate-friendly initiative to boost alternatives to petroleum. But, according
(More...)
Why do small rural communities often shun newcomers, even when they need them?
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 02:27:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-do-small-rural-communities-often-shun-newcomers-even-when-they-need-them-199984>
"Do you remember the time you and your friends started a secret club and didn’t
let anyone else join? Well, it’s kind of like that in some small rural
communities. Even though these communities really need to attract and keep
(More...)
Ukraine a year on: the invasion changed NZ foreign policy – as the war drags on, cracks will begin to show
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 02:28:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ukraine-a-year-on-the-invasion-changed-nz-foreign-policy-as-the-war-drags-on-cracks-will-begin-to-show-200524>
"One year to the day since Russian tanks ran over the Ukraine border – and over
the UN Charter and international law in the process – the world is less certain
and more dangerous than ever. For New Zealand, the war has also presented a
(More...)
‘An economic fairytale’: Australia’s inflation being driven by company profits and not wages, analysis finds
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 10:30:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
The new major players in conservation? NGOs thrive while national parks struggle
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 10:30:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-new-major-players-in-conservation-ngos-thrive-while-national-parks-struggle-199880>
"It might surprise you to know that not-for-profit conservation organisations
own, manage or influence growing chunks of Australia.
(More...)
Palm oil is actually not that bad (anymore)
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 10:32:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2023/2/2/23568192/palm-oil-deforestation-sustainable>
"In the last two decades, palm oil has become an environmental boogeyman, an
ingredient that conscious consumers should try to avoid.
(More...)
Losing a calf to wolves in Sweden hurts. But if lions take one in Uganda, a farming family’s income is gone
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 10:32:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/losing-a-calf-to-wolves-in-sweden-hurts-but-if-lions-take-one-in-uganda-a-farming-familys-income-is-gone-200169>
"For most people, seeing the fleeting black and gold of a tiger or hearing the
roar of a lion is the experience of a lifetime. For millennia, we’ve admired
large fierce animals, capturing them in ancient rock art and successful
(More...)
Everyone to live 15 minutes from green space or water in England under plans
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 10:34:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-64456455
'Everyone will live within 15 minutes' walk of a green space or water under new
government plans to restore nature.
(More...)
‘Why would you go to uni?’ A new study looks at what young Australians do after school
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 18:21:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-would-you-go-to-uni-a-new-study-looks-at-what-young-australians-do-after-school-200073>
"This week, the federal government released a discussion paper for a
Universities Accord, which it hopes will make a 30-year plan for the sector.
(More...)
How Scientists Are Using AI to Talk to Animals
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 18:24:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-scientists-are-using-ai-to-talk-to-animals/>
"In the 1970s a young gorilla known as Koko drew worldwide attention with her
ability to use human sign language. But skeptics maintain that Koko and other
animals that “learned” to speak (including chimpanzees and dolphins) could not
(More...)
We can learn a lot about long COVID from years of diagnosing and treating chronic fatigue syndrome
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 18:27:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-can-learn-a-lot-about-long-covid-from-years-of-diagnosing-and-treating-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-196128>
"Long COVID reportedly affects about 10% of post-COVID patients, and describes
a range of ongoing or new symptoms three months post-infection.
(More...)
The Most Beautiful Libraries in the World
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 18:28:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://electricliterature.com/libraries-from-around-the-world-that-must-be-seen-to-be-believed/>
"So many libraries, so little time! As writers and readers, we here at
Electric Literature know there’s nothing quite like stepping into a space
that has been specifically designed to invoke and perpetuate a love of reading.
(More...)
Households find low-waste living challenging. Here’s what needs to change
Thu, 9 Mar 2023 18:29:11 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/households-find-low-waste-living-challenging-heres-what-needs-to-change-197022>
"Australian households produce about 12 million tonnes of waste every year.
That puts the sector almost on par with manufacturing or construction.
(More...)
These robots might build your house
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 03:31:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/Wxknp
"Self-driving trench diggers. Drones that digitally re-create buildings.
Roomba-like devices that outline where every beam on a floor should go.
The construction site of the future is already here as homes, office buildings
(More...)
The huge fandoms of stars like Harry Styles are underestimated – but these highly creative communities can teach young people useful skills
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 03:32:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-huge-fandoms-of-stars-like-harry-styles-are-underestimated-but-these-highly-creative-communities-can-teach-young-people-useful-skills-200263>
"This week, Harry Styles finally kicked off the Australian leg of his much
anticipated tour. Fans have been preparing for months, creating handmade
outfits and learning the “boot scoot” – a dance associated on tour with Styles’
(More...)
Can 3-D Printing Help Solve the Housing Crisis?
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 03:33:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/01/23/can-3-d-printing-help-solve-the-housing-crisis>
"Before Jason Ballard became an entrepreneur, he considered becoming a priest.
His speech is still peppered with the idiom of faith—
wicked, angels,
sacred—and, when he latches on to a subject he cares about, he assumes a
(More...)
Free speech or ‘genocide cheering’? Ukranian authors withdraw from Adelaide Writers’ Week
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 03:35:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/free-speech-or-genocide-cheering-ukranian-authors-withdraw-from-adelaide-writers-week-200550>
"This week, Ukrainian writer Maria Tumarkin announced her withdrawal from
Adelaide Writers’ Week, along with fellow Ukrainians Olesya Khromeychuk and
Kateryna Babkina. (Tumarkin writes that she doesn’t support calls for
(More...)
COVID-19 Fueled Record-Breaking Investments in Global Health
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 03:36:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.thinkglobalhealth.org/article/covid-19-fueled-record-breaking-investments-global-health>
"The pandemic's toll has been terrible: almost eight million deaths have been
reported globally since 2020, and the total number of COVID-19 deaths—which
includes unreported deaths—adds up to an estimated 18.5 million. Meanwhile,
(More...)
The women who stood with Martin Luther King Jr. and sustained a movement for social change
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 03:40:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-women-who-stood-with-martin-luther-king-jr-and-sustained-a-movement-for-social-change-197262>
"Historian Vicki Crawford was one of the first scholars to focus on women’s
roles in the civil rights movement. Her 1993 book, “Trailblazers and
Torchbearers,” dives into the stories of female leaders whose legacies have
(More...)
Charted: The World’s Working Poor, by Country (1991-2021)
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 11:06:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.visualcapitalist.com/cp/where-are-the-working-poor-living/
"Poverty is often associated with unemployment—however, millions of working
people around the world are living in what’s considered to be extreme poverty,
or less than $1.90 per day.
(More...)
Democrats erupt with fury after Republican questions ‘loyalty’ of Rep. Chu
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 11:08:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thehill.com/homenews/house/3872564-democrats-erupt-with-fury-after-republican-questions-loyalty-of-rep-chu/>
"House Democrats are up in arms after a GOP lawmaker suggested Rep. Judy Chu
(D-Calif.), the nation’s first Chinese American congresswoman, is disloyal to
the United States.
(More...)
Why the GOP Wants to Tear America Apart
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 11:08:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://eand.co/why-the-gop-wants-to-tear-america-apart-a7bc712c98e3
"You might have thought to yourself over the last year or so, “The GOP’s got to
have learned something from the Trump years, right?” And you’d have been right.
It did. Just all the wrong things, as it turns out. What do I mean? This week,
(More...)
Her car died, so she walked to work. One day on the walk, she found $15,000.
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 11:10:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.seattletimes.com/life/her-car-died-so-she-walked-to-work-one-day-on-the-walk-she-found-15000/>
"Dianne Gordon’s green Jeep Liberty broke down about a year ago, and ever
since, she’s been walking 2.7 miles each way to and from work, five days a
week. Her car couldn’t be fixed, and Gordon, 65, couldn’t afford to buy a new
(More...)
Marking One Year Of Total War In Ukraine
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 11:11:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://andrewmtanner.medium.com/marking-one-year-of-total-war-in-ukraine-b01181169e1a>
"No one, not even a hardcore skeptic of the conventional wisdom like myself,
believed the fighting could ever last this long.
(More...)
Fossil fuel emissions to peak within two years as global decarbonization picks up steam
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 19:43:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.rystadenergy.com/news/fossil-fuel-emissions-to-peak-within-two-years-as-global-decarbonization-picks-up>
"The inflection point for fossil fuel carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is nigh,
with emissions on track to peak by 2025, according to Rystad Energy research
and analysis. On the current global pathway of announced policies, projects,
(More...)
COVID hasn’t taught the world how to beat the next deadly virus
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 19:44:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2023/02/21/world/science-health-world/covid-lessons-next-deadly-virus/>
"For much of the past century, a strategy known as elimination was the gold
standard for dealing with deadly new viruses. But China’s abrupt reversal of
its “zero-COVID” policy, which took it to an extreme, has cast doubts over the
(More...)
Europe Has Green-Energy FOMO
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 19:46:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/X8XjU
"It is a good time to be in the decarbonization business in the United States.
The Inflation Reduction Act—with its $374 billion cornucopia of green
incentives, subsidies, and grants—was designed to entice private companies to
(More...)
The Revolution Will Not Be Ableist
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 19:49:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://thegauntlet.substack.com/p/the-revolution-will-not-be-ableist
"I’m exhausted.
I’m reading yet another long list of justifications for not masking from a
(More...)
Europe Turned an Energy Crisis Into a Green Energy Sprint
Fri, 10 Mar 2023 19:50:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/voAIj
"This was supposed to be a winter of energy crisis in Europe. Beginning last
spring, not long after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the fear of gas
shortages spread across the continent, along with fears of what might follow.
(More...)
Broken Sociality
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 03:14:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.pestemag.com/lost-to-follow-up/broken-sociality
"Pandemic life remains terribly lonely. It’s recently become differently so.
Elements of pre-pandemic normal social life have returned, but not for us those
of us who aren’t going along with the so-called “back to normal.” I want a name
(More...)
Surprise! Electric cars are already making California healthier
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 03:17:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://electrek.co/2023/02/10/surprise-electric-cars-are-already-making-california-healthier/>
"From the “duh” department, California is already becoming more healthy because
of electric car penetration, which has resulted in cleaner air in areas where
electric cars are more prevalent, according to a new study.
(More...)
Exclusive: Brazil launches first anti-deforestation raids under Lula bid to protect Amazon
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 03:18:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/first-brazil-logging-raids-under-lula-aim-curb-amazon-deforestation-2023-01-19/>
"URUARA, Brazil, Jan 19 (Reuters) - Brazilian environmental agents cut through
the rainforest with machetes on Thursday in search of criminals in the first
anti-deforestation raids under President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who has
(More...)
In Defence of 15 Minute Cities
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 03:19:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/the-new-climate/in-defence-of-15-minute-cities-dac402c01949>
"I can’t quite believe I’m having to write this, but here goes: 15 Minute
Cities are a really, really good thing. I’ve been a fan of the concept since
visiting Paris in 2016 to research my book about air pollution, during the
(More...)
AI-generated fiction is flooding literary magazines — but not fooling anyone
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 11:20:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theverge.com/2023/2/25/23613752/ai-generated-short-stories-literary-magazines-clarkesworld-science-fiction>
"A short story titled “The Last Hope” first hit Sheila Williams’ desk in early
January. Williams, the editor of
Asimov’s Science Fiction magazine, reviewed
the story and passed on it.
(More...)
Human rights wins to celebrate in 2022
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 11:22:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.amnesty.org.au/human-rights-wins-to-celebrate-in-2022/
"December 10 is Human Rights Day. It marks the adoption of the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 — a list of the rights everyone around the
world should enjoy. 74 years later, the fight to uphold our rights is far from
(More...)
Mobilising Assam’s ‘hargila army’: how 10,000 women saved India’s rarest stork
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 11:25:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2023/feb/09/assam-hargila-army-women-saved-india-rarest-stork-greater-adjutant>
"On a cool December afternoon a group of women dressed in brightly coloured
mekhela chadors (Assam’s traditional handwoven clothing) sit in a circle on
the grass at the Bhokha Beel wetlands, singing and clapping.
(More...)
Mexican wolf program is making strides after 25 years of effort
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 11:26:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://cronkitenews.azpbs.org/2023/02/14/mexican-wolf-recovery-program-arizona-news-mexico-progress/>
"ALPINE – On a frigid morning in late January, biologists set out in a
helicopter to begin the annual Mexican wolf population count with hopes of
finding at least one more wolf than last year.
(More...)
In Odisha’s Mangalajodi wetland, youth strive to build a healthier ecosystem and generate livelihoods
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 11:27:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://india.mongabay.com/2022/08/in-odishas-mangalajodi-wetland-youth-strive-to-build-a-healthier-ecosystem-and-generate-livelihoods/>
"Srinivas Behera’s family in Mangalajodi village on the northern banks of the
Chilika lake in Odisha along India’s east coast has been engaged in the fishing
business for as long as he can remember. His father was a fisherman, and would
(More...)
Tackling the 15-minute cities conspiracy means fixing inequality
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 19:10:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/feb/26/uk-economic-uncertainty-adds-fuel-to-fire-for-conspiracy-theorists>
"The sea of yellow placards, held aloft in the protest against Oxford’s
low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) scheme earlier this month, told a story. In
the crowd of about 2,000 people who took part, it was clear the demonstration
(More...)
Watch And Learn: Robot Picks Up New Skills In Seconds
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 19:11:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://nocamels.com/2023/01/watch-and-learn-robot-picks-up-new-skills-in-seconds/>
"A breakthrough technology means robots can literally “watch and learn” without
the need for any programming.
(More...)
Rewiring Australia founder Saul Griffith is a man on a mission to electrify the nation, one suburb at a time
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 19:13:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-02-27/saul-griffith-plan-to-rewire-australia/101762960>
'Dr Saul Griffith has found himself in plenty of high-pressure situations over
the past two decades. From meetings with White House officials and US
politicians, to duelling with the powerful fossil fuel lobby, he's made the
(More...)
Can ideology-detecting algorithms catch online extremism before it takes hold?
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 19:13:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/can-ideology-detecting-algorithms-catch-online-extremism-before-it-takes-hold-200629>
"Ideology has always been a critical element in understanding how we view the
world, form opinions and make political decisions.
(More...)
Crochet enthusiasts asked ChatGPT for patterns. The results are ‘cursed’
Sat, 11 Mar 2023 19:15:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/feb/26/chatgpt-generated-crochet-pattern-results>
"The meteoric rise of ChatGPT has sparked an artificial intelligence frenzy,
stoking fears that the technology could upend jobs, search engines and schools.
But online creators have identified one realm yet safe from the computer
(More...)
It’s been 3 years since COVID entered New Zealand – here are 3 ways to improve our response
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 03:25:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/its-been-3-years-since-covid-entered-new-zealand-here-are-3-ways-to-improve-our-response-196723>
"February 28 marks three years since COVID was first reported in Aotearoa New
Zealand. Since then there have been major advances in our understanding of this
infection and the tools and strategies to combat it.
(More...)
Rather Than Making The Internet Safe For Kids, Make Your Kids Safe For The Real World
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 03:26:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/02/24/rather-than-making-the-internet-safe-for-kids-make-your-kids-safe-for-the-real-world/>
"We’ve been talking a lot lately about the massive moral panic going on right
now, claiming that the internet is somehow inherently dangerous for kids. As
we’ve noted, the evidence simply does not support this. Over and over and over
(More...)
Australia’s red goshawk is disappearing. How can we save our rarest bird of prey from extinction?
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 03:27:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australias-red-goshawk-is-disappearing-how-can-we-save-our-rarest-bird-of-prey-from-extinction-200339>
"Australia’s red goshawk once ruled the skies. But now this almighty raptor,
affectionately known as The Red, has become our nation’s rarest bird of prey.
(More...)
Rezone more land to get more housing, NSW government says – but that could be a recipe for disaster
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 03:28:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/27/rezone-more-land-to-get-more-housing-nsw-government-says-but-that-can-be-a-recipe-for-disaster>
"It’s a simple and seductive solution: rezone more land on the fringes of
Sydney for housing and real estate prices will fall, thanks to greater supply.
(More...)
AOC Flips the Religious Freedom Argument on Its Head
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 03:29:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Upa2Rk_Y1Z0
"In US news and current events today, watch Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez destroy
the GOP’s ‘religious freedom’ argument.
(More...)
The Case For Shunning
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 11:06:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://armoxon.substack.com/p/the-case-for-shunning
"So there’s this comic strip called
Dilbert that a lot of people used to
think was funny—certainly enough to sustain an enormously successful career in
the funny pages for its creator, whose name is Scott Adams, a man who I
(More...)
Tiny houses and alternative homes are gaining councils’ approval as they wrestle with the housing crisis
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 11:07:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/tiny-houses-and-alternative-homes-are-gaining-councils-approval-as-they-wrestle-with-the-housing-crisis-199667>
"Australia’s coastal cities and surrounding hinterlands have long been popular
with tourists, sea-changers and retirees. But they have a darker side. In the
early morning you will often find car parks crowded with cars, vans, caravans
(More...)
Billionaire stoush over alleged media bias highlights the need for greater media diversity
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 11:09:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/billionaire-stoush-over-alleged-media-bias-highlights-the-need-for-greater-media-diversity-200354>
"The recent stoush between mining magnate Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest and media
mogul Kerry Stokes is just the latest flashing neon sign above the parlous
state of media diversity in Australia.
(More...)
Passive vaping – time we see it like secondhand smoke and stand up for the right to clean air
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 11:10:45 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/passive-vaping-time-we-see-it-like-secondhand-smoke-and-stand-up-for-the-right-to-clean-air-198766>
"A medical student of mine recently said he loved the smell of vanilla in the
house he shared with friends who vaped. “That’s OK, right?” he asked. “Well
no,” I said, “If you can smell the vanilla you are probably getting nicotine as
(More...)
Ice Sheet Collapse at Both Poles to Start Sooner Than Expected, Study Warns
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 11:12:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/ice-sheet-collapse-at-both-poles-to-start-sooner-than-expected-study-warns>
'Even if we manage to stabilize Earth's temperatures by peaking at 2 °C,
Greenland's and Antarctica's vast ice sheets are on track for irreversible
melting, a new study warns.
(More...)
Pretty Yende, a South African opera star with a voice that shatters glass ceilings
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 19:43:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/pretty-yende-a-south-african-opera-star-with-a-voice-that-shatters-glass-ceilings-200559>
"It’s been announced that South African opera star Pretty Yende will sing at
King Charles III’s coronation on 6 May in Westminster Abbey, London. The
37-year-old soprano was elated.
(More...)
Ireland has lost almost all of its native forests – here’s how to bring them back
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 19:45:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ireland-has-lost-almost-all-of-its-native-forests-heres-how-to-bring-them-back-195511>
"Despite its green image, Ireland has surprisingly little forest. Across
Europe, nations average around 35% forest cover but in Ireland the figure is
just 11%, one of the lowest on the continent.
(More...)
What is spillover? Bird flu outbreak underscores need for early detection to prevent the next big pandemic
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 19:46:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/what-is-spillover-bird-flu-outbreak-underscores-need-for-early-detection-to-prevent-the-next-big-pandemic-200494>
"The current epidemic of avian influenza has killed over 58 million birds in
the U.S. as of February 2023. Following on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic,
large outbreaks of viruses like bird flu raise the specter of another disease
(More...)
How the ‘Diamond of the Plant World’ Helped Land Plants Evolve
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 19:47:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.quantamagazine.org/how-the-diamond-of-the-plant-world-helped-land-plants-evolve-20220719/>
"When Fu-Shuang Li, a biochemist and research scientist at the Whitehead
Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts, needed some pollen for his research, he
knew just where to go. Every spring, the pitch pine trees ringing Walden Pond
(More...)
The animals and plants that only exist in captivity – and why time is running out to restore them to the wild
Sun, 12 Mar 2023 19:48:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-animals-and-plants-that-only-exist-in-captivity-and-why-time-is-running-out-to-restore-them-to-the-wild-200570>
"It was April in 1981 when a party of four camped for two days and nights on
the forested slopes of Mount Evermann, the central peak of Socorro, a volcanic
island in the Pacific some 400 kilometres southwest of Baja California, Mexico.
(More...)
First wearable heart ultrasound is powered by an AI brain
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 03:07:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.freethink.com/health/wearable-heart-monitor
"The subtle signs of heart disease rarely reveal themselves when we are
relaxed. Nevertheless, current heart imaging technology requires patients to
lie calmly on a vinyl-covered bed while a technician holds a cold, lube-coated
(More...)
‘Looming global health crisis’: urgent action needed to prevent spread of drug-resistant superbugs, CSIRO says
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 03:09:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/27/looming-global-health-crisis-urgent-action-needed-to-prevent-spread-of-drug-resistant-superbugs-csiro-says>
"Better coordination is urgently needed across Australia to mitigate the threat
of superbugs as a “global health crisis” looms, according to a new report
co-produced by the national science agency.
(More...)
As uni goes back, here’s how teachers and students can use ChatGPT to save time and improve learning
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 03:10:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Deadly new UK strep A variant leading to disease surge in Australia
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 03:11:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/28/deadly-new-uk-strep-a-variant-leading-to-disease-surge-in-australia-experts-say>
"The invasive strep A variant first identified in the UK and thought to be
behind a surge in deaths there and throughout Europe has likely contributed to
a similar uptick in serious disease and hospitalisations in Australia,
(More...)
Threatened species recover in fenced safe havens. But their safety is only temporary
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 03:12:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/threatened-species-recover-in-fenced-safe-havens-but-their-safety-is-only-temporary-200548>
"If you want to see some of Australia’s most charismatic threatened mammals
such as bilbies, boodies and stick-nest rats, chances are you’ll have to go to
a zoo – or a safe haven.
(More...)
Augmented Reality GPS Navigation in a Smart Contact Lens – Made With 3D Printer!
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:45:51 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://scitechdaily.com/augmented-reality-gps-navigation-in-a-smart-contact-lens-made-with-3d-printer/>
"Core 3D printing process technology for smart contact lenses that can
implement augmented reality (AR)-based navigation has been developed by Dr.
Seol Seung-Kwon’s Smart 3D Printing Research Team at the Korea
(More...)
If It Seems Too Easy, It Probably Isn’t
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:46:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://notalwaysright.com/if-it-seems-too-easy-it-probably-isnt/284878/
"The most memorable class I took during my university degree was one I took in
my first semester. It was held in the largest lecture hall and packed to
overflowing because it was a required class for an awful lot of degrees. Unlike
(More...)
Cyclone Gabrielle hit NZ’s main fruit-growing region hard – now orchardists face critical climate choices
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:47:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/cyclone-gabrielle-hit-nzs-main-fruit-growing-region-hard-now-orchardists-face-critical-climate-choices-200252>
"Hawke’s Bay, one of New Zealand’s most productive regions and the hub of the
fruit-growing sector, is among the areas worst hit by Cyclone Gabrielle and
ongoing rain.
(More...)
Getting Kicked Off Social Media For Breaking Its Rules Is Nothing Like Being Sent To A Prison Camp For Retweeting Criticism Of A Dictator
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:49:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/02/27/getting-kicked-off-social-media-for-breaking-its-rules-is-nothing-like-being-sent-to-a-prison-camp-for-retweeting-criticism-of-a-dictator/>
"It’s become frustrating how often people insist that losing this or that
social media account is “censorship” and an “attack on free speech.” Not only
is it not that, it makes a mockery of those who face real censorship and real
(More...)
Pregnant rats pass nanoplastic bits to unborn pups
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:50:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.futurity.org/nanoscale-plastics-pregnancy-embryos-2881602
"Nanoscale plastic particles, such as those that permeate most food and water,
pass from pregnant rats to their unborn offspring and may impair fetal
development, according to a new study.
(More...)
How to improve the migration system for the good of temporary migrants – and Australia
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:35:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Yet Another Former Israeli Intelligence Officer Linked To Yet Another Shady Company Offering Hacking Tools
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:36:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
‘Build back better’ sounds great in theory, but does the government really know what it means in practice?
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:37:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/build-back-better-sounds-great-in-theory-but-does-the-government-really-know-what-it-means-in-practice-200514>
"In the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins promised
to invest billions in disaster-hit communities to “build back better”. But
building community and infrastructure resilience will take more than just cash.
(More...)
33 million kids vaccinated against polio in southern Africa
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:38:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/polio-and-post-syndrome-world-health-organization-malawi-mozambique-lilongwe-bc93d960e1e4beaa8cffbb2d3f111a51>
"HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — More than 33 million children in several southern
African countries have been vaccinated against polio, part of ongoing efforts
to eradicate the infectious paralytic disease that has been largely contained
(More...)
Climate change is fuelling the rise of superbugs. What can we do to save ourselves?
Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:39:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/climate-change-is-fuelling-the-rise-of-superbugs-what-can-we-do-to-save-ourselves-200707>
"The next time you need to take antibiotics, they may not work. So you may be
prescribed a different antibiotic, which also may not work. Maybe nothing
works.
(More...)
Countries unite to remove mercury from hazardous skin lightening products
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 02:39:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.who.int/news/item/14-02-2023-countries-unite-to-remove-mercury-from-hazardous-skin-lightening-products>
"The governments of Gabon, Jamaica and Sri Lanka have joined forces to fight
back against damaging beauty practices, launching a joint US$14-million project
to eliminate the use of mercury in skin lightening products.
(More...)
Older women are doing remarkable things – it’s time for the putdowns to end
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 02:41:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/older-women-are-doing-remarkable-things-its-time-for-the-putdowns-to-end-199500>
"It’s not easy to claim being an old woman. To start with, how can I be 75 when
I feel about 40? And isn’t it shameful to be old when youth is valued? People
proudly parrot statements such as, “I’m growing older but not getting old”
(More...)
South Korea court recognises same-sex couple rights for first time
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 02:42:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-64714625
"A South Korean court has for the first time recognised the rights of a
same-sex couple in the country.
(More...)
Times Buckaroo Banzai’s oscillation overthruster was used as a prop on Star Trek
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 02:47:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Nat Bullard's state of decarbonization and how to think about net zero
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 02:48:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.exponentialview.co/p/evs-charts-of-the-week-111
"We have a special edition today. I invited EV member Nat Bullard, one of the
leading global analysts on energy, climate and technology transition towards
net zero, to share his latest research with you. For the occasion, I’ve decided
(More...)
The fastest growing metro in the US is looking to a shrinking reservoir to keep the boom going
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:00:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/02/28/us/st-george-utah-water-lake-powell-pipeline-climate/index.html>
"Ivins, Utah CNN — In a bright-red county in a state allergic to regulations,
there is a ban on growing grass outside new businesses. Only 8% of a home’s
landscaping can have a grass lawn in this booming corner of Utah, about a
(More...)
The Forgotten Kenyans Who Excavated Ancient Monuments
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:05:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/kenyan-archaeology-exhibit
"For more than 20 years through the 1950s and 1960s, Karisa Ndurya worked as a
foreman at some of the first excavations of ancient monuments in East Africa.
Under the management of Scottish archaeologist James Kirkman, Ndurya supervised
(More...)
Are Western sanctions on Iran making a difference?
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:08:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/are-western-sanctions-on-iran-making-a-difference-199302>
"The Iranian Islamic regime has been seriously challenged since the start of
public protests last September. The government has sought to contain and
suppress the protesters – even resorting to executions – but has been unable to
(More...)
Carbon emissions from global SUV fleet outweighs that of most countries
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:10:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/feb/28/carbon-emissions-global-suv-sport-utility-vehicles-oil-climate>
"The continued global rise in sales of SUVs pushed their climate-heating
emissions to almost 1bn tonnes of carbon dioxide in 2022, according to the
International Energy Agency.
(More...)
The ERA Gives Us a Chance to Fix the Constitution. We Need to Take it.
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 12:14:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.newsweek.com/era-gives-us-chance-fix-constitution-we-need-take-it-1783764>
"It's been 100 years since the Equal Rights Amendment was introduced, and Alice
Paul is on my mind.
(More...)
‘Scanners are complicated’: why Gen Z faces workplace ‘tech shame’
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 19:44:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/feb/27/gen-z-tech-shame-office-technology-printers>
"Garrett Bemiller, a 25-year-old New Yorker, has spent his entire life online.
He grew up in front of screens, swiping from one app to the next. But there’s
one skill set Bemiller admits he’s less comfortable with: the humble office
(More...)
Iran probes 'deliberate' poisoning of schoolgirls across the country
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 19:45:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/iran-poisoning-schoolgirls-deliberate-islamic-republic-rcna72610>
"Iranian authorities say they are investigating the suspected poisoning of
hundreds of schoolgirls across the country.
(More...)
Is there a way to pay content creators whose work is used to train AI? Yes, but it’s not foolproof
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 19:46:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Announcing The Winners Of The 5th Annual Public Domain Game Jam!
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 19:48:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/02/28/announcing-the-winners-of-the-5th-annual-public-domain-game-jam/>
"In January, we asked designers to create games based on works that entered the
public domain this year for our fifth annual public domain game jam,
Gaming
Like It’s 1927! It took us a little while to get through all the entries, but
(More...)
‘A stench of tokenism’: how environmental reforms ignore First Nations knowledge
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 19:49:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-stench-of-tokenism-how-environmental-reforms-ignore-first-nations-knowledge-198393>
"The Albanese government is embarking on a suite of environmental reforms:
beefing up Australia’s carbon credit scheme, and establishing a market to fund
environmental restoration. These big policy changes may seek to justify
(More...)
Recycled Glass, Turned into Sand, Is Restoring Louisiana’s Coastline
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 03:42:51 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/recycled-glass-turned-into-sand-is-restoring-louisianas-shrinking-coastline/>
"Most ideas that start over a bottle of wine don’t go anywhere, but this one is
different. Two Tulane University seniors in New Orleans, Franziska Trautmann
and Max Steitz, were drinking wine in their dorm when they started lamenting
(More...)
Chinese Monks Get Electricity for the First Time Thanks to Solar
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 03:44:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/24mBj
"It takes three hours of hiking along rock stairs and muddy walkways to reach
Boluo Temple in the Chinese city of Dali, where by some accounts monks have
lived since as early as the Tang Dynasty. For more than a thousand years,
(More...)
Seed-Planting Drones Are Reforesting Canada With Lightning Speed
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 03:45:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/drone-tree-planting-reforesting-after-wildfires/>
"Cameron and Bryce Jones were just 13 and 14 years old when they witnessed the
Okanagan Mountain Park fire devastate their home city of Kelowna, British
Columbia, in 2003. “The grounds behind my house were unrecognizable,” Bryce
(More...)
All major road building projects in Wales are scrapped
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 03:46:27 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-64640215
'All major road building projects in Wales have been scrapped over
environmental concerns.
(More...)
New results from NASA’s DART planetary defence mission confirm we could deflect deadly asteroids
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 03:47:07 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/new-results-from-nasas-dart-planetary-defence-mission-confirm-we-could-deflect-deadly-asteroids-200835>
"What would we do if we spotted a hazardous asteroid on a collision course with
Earth? Could we deflect it safely to prevent the impact?
(More...)
ACCC to crack down on ‘greenwashing’ after survey reveals spike in misleading claims
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 11:54:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/01/accc-to-crack-down-on-greenwashing-after-survey-reveals-spike-in-misleading-claims>
"The competition watchdog will step up its probe of companies’ environmental
claims after an initial sweep found more than half made misleading statements
ranging from overstating climate action to developing their own certification
(More...)
Amid a worsening refugee crisis, public support is high in both Australia and NZ to accept more Rohingya
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:00:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/amid-a-worsening-refugee-crisis-public-support-is-high-in-both-australia-and-nz-to-accept-more-rohingya-199504>
"Nearly one million stateless Rohingya people who fled brutal ethnic cleansing
in Myanmar have been languishing in extremely congested refugee camps in
Bangladesh for the past five and a half years.
(More...)
No love for letters: Australia Post’s daily deliveries under review as traditional mail declines
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:03:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/02/no-love-for-letters-australia-posts-future-under-review-as-traditional-mail-declines>
"Australia Post is famous for its “we deliver” slogan – but when it comes to
letters, it may soon need to add the caveat “but not as often as we used to”.
(More...)
You Are Not a Parrot
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:06:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/ai-artificial-intelligence-chatbots-emily-m-bender.html>
"Nobody likes an I-told-you-so. But before Microsoft’s Bing started cranking
out creepy love letters; before Meta’s Galactica spewed racist rants; before
ChatGPT began writing such perfectly decent college essays that some professors
(More...)
What do Matt Hancock’s WhatsApp messages show? Not what the Telegraph wants us to see
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:10:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/mar/01/matt-hancock-whatsapp-messages-telegraph-covid-pandemic>
"The
Telegraph’s Wednesday front page is dedicated to a huge trove of the
WhatsApp messages of former health secretary Matt Hancock, which journalist
Isabel Oakeshott has leaked to, in her words, avoid a Covid “whitewash”.
(More...)
The Great Replacement (Not That One, the Real One)
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 19:37:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://catvalente.substack.com/p/the-great-replacement-not-that-one
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a civilization in possession of a
good fortune, must replace all organic workers with AI as soon as possible,
which will definitely never ever cause any problems whatsoever.
(More...)
We can’t keep putting apartment residents’ waste in the too hard basket
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 19:43:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-cant-keep-putting-apartment-residents-waste-in-the-too-hard-basket-200545>
"The harsh realities of managing the waste we produce are in the news: councils
shunning new glass bins, more plastic being produced per person in the world
and Sydney bins overflowing. And the growth in apartment living in Australia
(More...)
Even After Its Own Data Protection Agency Said There’s No Safe Way To Do Age Verification, France Wants To Do Age Verification For The Internet
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 19:46:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/01/even-after-its-own-data-protection-agency-said-theres-no-safe-way-to-do-age-verification-france-wants-to-do-age-verification-for-the-internet/>
"It’s become the
in thing to do everywhere, these days: try to institute age
verification for the internet. There’s been an ongoing, unsubstantiated, moral
panic that the internet is somehow “dangerous” for children, even as most of
(More...)
Political instability and damage to infrastructure: how climate change could undermine Australia’s national security
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 19:48:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Overwhelmed By All The Generative AI Headlines? This Guide Is For You
Wed, 15 Mar 2023 19:51:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/01/overwhelmed-by-all-the-generative-ai-headlines-this-guide-is-for-you/>
"Between Sydney “tried to break up my marriage” and “blew my mind because of
her personality,” we have had a lot of journalists anthropomorphizing AI
chatbots lately.
(More...)
Despite restrictions elsewhere, NZ still uses a wood preservative linked to arsenic pollution
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 03:42:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/despite-restrictions-elsewhere-nz-still-uses-a-wood-preservative-linked-to-arsenic-pollution-199865>
"Timber with a green-grey hue – treated with copper chromium arsenic (CCA) – is
a common sight in New Zealand. But how many people are aware that it pollutes
the environment, is associated with health risks and is a toxic waste
(More...)
This High School Gave Spending Power to Students
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 03:43:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/this-high-school-gave-spending-power-to-students/>
"It was the first day of the 2021 fall semester and Ajah Johnson could not
believe what her teachers were telling her. By the end of the course, the
instructors said, she and her peers would get to choose how to spend $10,000 to
(More...)
Germany’s new migration policy could take away vital talent from several African countries
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 03:44:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/germanys-new-migration-policy-could-take-away-vital-talent-from-several-african-countries-200751>
"In Germany, the policy of bringing in skilled labour has grown in recent years
through a “welcoming culture”. This has greatly facilitated the arrival and,
above all, the integration of many migrants. For instance, Germany welcomed
(More...)
European Electricity Review 2023
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 03:45:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://ember-climate.org/insights/research/european-electricity-review-2023/>
"The European Electricity Review analyses full-year electricity generation and
demand data for 2022 in all EU-27 countries to understand the region’s progress
in transitioning from fossil fuels to clean electricity. It is the seventh
(More...)
I’ve spent 5 years researching the heroic life of Black musician Graham Jackson, but teaching his story could be illegal under laws in Florida and North Dakota
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 03:46:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
How Europe Ditched Russian Fossil Fuels With Spectacular Speed
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:26:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/2q8Zv
"Europe’s most remarkable response to Russia’s war on Ukraine hasn’t been
marshaling military equipment and billions of euros in aid. It’s been the
unprecedented speed of an energy transition that in one year has nearly
(More...)
Voyager - Promise | Australia 🇦🇺 | Official Music Video | Eurovision 2023
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:30:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqtu2GspT80
Voyager will represent Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 with their
song Promise.
(More...)
Electric Lawn Mowers WITH SOLAR PANELS!
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:31:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=At5zLQAuGHA
"Robert is down under and has finally got his hands on a massive, mean, green
(but very quiet!) electric mower! In this episode, Robert meets David Walker
who leads Metro North Hospital and Healthcare's Sustainable Assets and
(More...)
Jimmy Carter: the American president whose commitment to Africa went beyond his term
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:33:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/jimmy-carter-the-american-president-whose-commitment-to-africa-went-beyond-his-term-200745>
"The office of former US president Jimmy Carter (98), who has been frail for
some time, has announced that he will no longer seek hospital treatment for his
ailments. He has instead opted for hospice care at his modest home in the rural
(More...)
How Europe turned a crisis into a clean energy revolution
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:36:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/PzCSv
"One year ago, on the cusp of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it seemed
unimaginable that renewable energy in Europe could overtake electricity from
oil and gas.
(More...)
Friday essay: how policies favouring rich, older people make young Australians Generation F-d
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 20:27:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-how-policies-favouring-rich-older-people-make-young-australians-generation-f-d-199403>
"Working to buy your own home is a rite of passage in Australia, firmly rooted
in a time when government delivered plentiful, affordable housing. Following
the senseless poverty and destitution inflicted by price-gouging landlords
(More...)
‘Like a little dragon’: new gecko species discovered on rugged Queensland island
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 20:28:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/mar/03/like-a-little-dragon-new-gecko-species-discovered-on-rugged-queensland-island>
"A new species of gecko that “looks like a little dragon”, with a beaky face
and spiny leaf-shaped tail, has been discovered on an uninhabited Queensland
island.
(More...)
Why it’s time to get over your EV range anxiety
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 20:33:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://arstechnica.com/cars/2023/03/why-its-time-to-officially-get-over-your-ev-range-anxiety/>
"Electric vehicle batteries keep getting larger, and the typical driving range
between charges keeps growing.
(More...)
Thinking of having a baby as the planet collapses? First, ask yourself 5 big ethical questions
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 20:44:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/thinking-of-having-a-baby-as-the-planet-collapses-first-ask-yourself-5-big-ethical-questions-196388>
"Do you want to have a baby? But, on a planet rocked by the climate crisis,
ecosystem collapse, famine and poverty, is having one just adding to the
problem – and therefore unethical?
(More...)
Refugees alleging horrific treatment in Australian detention centres face lengthy court delays
Thu, 16 Mar 2023 20:46:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/03/refugees-alleging-horrific-treatment-in-australian-detention-centres-face-lengthy-court-delays>
"Fifty refugees who allege they endured horrific treatment in now-defunct South
Australian detention centres are facing vast and unexplained delays to their
cases against the government, which threaten to languish in the courts for more
(More...)
90 years ago, Yorta Yorta leader William Cooper petitioned the king for Aboriginal representation in parliament
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 04:35:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/90-years-ago-yorta-yorta-leader-william-cooper-petitioned-the-king-for-aboriginal-representation-in-parliament-198396>
"Ninety years ago, Yorta Yorta leader William Cooper dreamed of Aboriginal
people being represented in the Commonwealth parliament. In August 1933, he set
about petitioning the British king, George V. The key demand was for:
(More...)
Publishers Lobbied To ‘Axe The Reading Tax’ On Ebooks, Then Paid It To Themselves
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 04:36:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/02/publishers-lobbied-to-axe-the-reading-tax-on-ebooks-then-paid-it-to-themselves/>
"One of the (many) villains in “Walled Culture” the book is the publishing
industry, specifically in the context of the transition from analogue books to
ebooks. What could have been one of the most important expansions of the power
(More...)
Cyclone Gabrielle broke vital communication links when people needed them most – what happened and how do we fix it?
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 04:37:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/cyclone-gabrielle-broke-vital-communication-links-when-people-needed-them-most-what-happened-and-how-do-we-fix-it-200711>
"Modern communication systems need two main things: power, and what engineers
call “backhaul”, the connections that link cell towers and exchanges to the
national network. When Cyclone Gabrielle struck, both were badly compromised.
(More...)
Australia’s ‘quiet diplomacy’ approach to human rights in India has failed, advocates say
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 04:38:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/mar/03/australias-quiet-diplomacy-approach-to-human-rights-in-india-has-failed-advocates-say>
"The Australian government has refused to be drawn on human rights in India,
prompting accusations that it has shelved uncomfortable issues to boost trade
and security ties.
(More...)
Race and erasure: why the world’s other humanitarian crises don’t see the same response as Ukraine
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 04:39:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/race-and-erasure-why-the-worlds-other-humanitarian-crises-dont-see-the-same-response-as-ukraine-200987>
"With the war in Ukraine now in its second year, nearly a third of the
country’s population has been displaced, including 8 million people who have
sought refuge beyond its borders.
(More...)
EU climate czar: Putin’s war accelerated green transition
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:23:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-politics-european-union-europe-b38199c0e8410df19274be163906b36f>
"BRUSSELS (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin unwittingly accelerated the
European Union’s green transition with his war in Ukraine, with the 27-nation
bloc reducing its dependency on Russian fossil fuels and increasing its
(More...)
A condition called POTS rose after covid, but patients can’t find care
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:25:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/02/27/pots-heart-fainting-long-covid/>
"A life-changing condition called POTS, which can cause fainting, irregular
heartbeats and dizziness, particularly among young women, appears to be on the
rise as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
(More...)
NatWest to end new business loans for oil and gas extraction
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:26:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/global/2023/feb/09/natwest-to-end-new-business-loans-for-oil-and-gas-extraction>
"NatWest has announced it will stop offering loans to new customers hoping to
fund oil and gas exploration, extraction or production projects, as part of a
wider climate transition plan due to be unveiled next week.
(More...)
Catching COVID may increase chances of developing an autoimmune disease, study says
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:27:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/02/25/catching-covid-may-increase-chances-of-developing-an-autoimmune-disease-study-says/>
"A coronavirus infection may make it more likely for someone without an
autoimmune disease to develop at least one in the months after the infection
subsides, new research suggests.
(More...)
Over 25 GW of solar is actively being constructed in the U.S.
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 12:28:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2023/02/17/over-25-gw-of-solar-is-actively-being-constructed-in-the-u-s/>
"Viewing the Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) monthly update of
capacity additions, it is clear that the energy transition is well underway.
Nationwide, projects listed as actively under construction total over 25.4 GW
(More...)
Press Release: Long COVID Awareness Day Campaign
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:27:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_KyVllwn2Ysoah9GUXZ662QmCaoNhB-rGU2iUueaHBM/>
'On March 15, 2023 those who have been impacted by Long COVID will come
together for the very first International Long COVID Awareness Day. This yearly
observance hopes to spread information about the impacts of Long COVID around
(More...)
How did China come to dominate the world of electric cars?
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:28:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/fPPlO
"Before most people could realize the extent of what was happening, China
became a world leader in making and buying EVs. And the momentum hasn’t slowed:
In just the past two years, the number of EVs sold annually in the country grew
(More...)
Economic growth is fuelling climate change – a new book proposes ‘degrowth communism’ as the solution
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:29:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/economic-growth-is-fuelling-climate-change-a-new-book-proposes-degrowth-communism-as-the-solution-199572>
"I’m often told that degrowth, the planned downscaling of production and
consumption to reduce the pressure on Earth’s ecosystems, is a tough sell. But
a 36-year-old associate professor at Tokyo University has made a name for
(More...)
Why American Life Is So Bleak
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:31:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://eand.co/why-american-life-is-so-bleak-b4cc797f19e5
"It’s almost spring. And do you know what my favorite thing is in the
springtime? Paris. Avignon. Maybe Berlin. Barcelona. Pick a great European
city, and springtime in it’s…beautiful. Breathtaking, even. People pour into
(More...)
The Far-Right's Culture Wars Are Just a Distraction So Oligarchs Can Keep Looting the Working Class
Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:32:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.commondreams.org/opinion/far-right-culture-war-working-class
"Marjorie Taylor Greene is calling for an American “divorce.”
She apparently sees herself as a modern-day John C. Calhoun, a demagogue who
(More...)
I Will Fucking Dropkick You If You Use That Spreadsheet
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 04:57:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://ludic.mataroa.blog/blog/i-will-fucking-dropkick-you-if-you-use-that-spreadsheet/>
"There are a few things that inspire deep revulsion in me. The episode of
Star
Trek: Voyager I just watched was pretty gross. I definitely saw some pretty
bad roadkill on my daily walks during the Covid lockdowns. But nothing -
(More...)
A snake story
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 04:59:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Hundreds of lynx to be hunted in Sweden following biggest ever wolf cull
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 05:04:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/mar/02/hundreds-of-lynx-to-be-hunted-in-sweden-following-biggest-ever-wolf-cull>
"Sweden has issued licences to hunters to kill a total of 201 lynx, weeks after
dozens of wolves were killed in the country’s biggest wolf cull in modern
times.
(More...)
Six Billion Smartphones on Earth, but Who Will Fix Them?
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 05:08:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.ifixit.com/News/73089/six-billion-smartphones-on-earth-but-who-will-fix-them>
"There are 6.92 billion smartphone users worldwide—that means 86.34% of the
world’s population owns a smartphone. The average lifespan of these devices is
around 2–3 years, which means it’s likely those billions of devices will end up
(More...)
"The Blues Brothers" Is a Wild Ride Through 1970s Chicago
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 05:10:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://jacobin.com/2023/03/the-blues-brothers-1970s-chicago-working-class-black-musicians>
"
The Blues Brothers is still a rollicking good time more than 40 years later,
offering an exuberant look at 1970s Chicago in all its rough, working-class
charm."
(More...)
Humans are still hunting for aliens. Here’s how astronomers are looking for life beyond Earth
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 13:31:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/humans-are-still-hunting-for-aliens-heres-how-astronomers-are-looking-for-life-beyond-earth-197621>
"We have long been fascinated with the idea of alien life. The earliest written
record presenting the idea of “aliens” is seen in the satiric work of Assyrian
writer Lucian of Samosata dated to 200 AD.
(More...)
VW wouldn't help find kidnapped child because his mother wasn't paying for find-my-car subscription
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 13:31:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/28/kinderwagen/#worst-timeline
'The masked car-thieves who stole a Volkswagen SUV in Lake County, IL didn't
know that there was a two-year-old child in the back seat – but that's no
excuse. A violent car-theft has the potential to hurt or kill people, after
(More...)
New reserve in Ecuador secures over 3 million acres of forest
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 13:33:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2023/02/new-reserve-in-ecuador-secures-over-3-million-acres-of-forest/>
"Ecuador this month recognized a new reserve in the Amazon rainforest in hopes
of protecting Indigenous land from threats like mining and livestock.
(More...)
Long Covid disabled them. Then they met a ‘broken’ Social Security disability process
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 13:34:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/02/25/business/long-covid-workforce-issues-disability-claims/>
"Pushing through cognitive impairment, migraines and severe fatigue, Michaelene
Carlton, 49, mustered up the energy last week to dial the Social Security
Administration to speak to her newly appointed Social Security Disability
(More...)
Lula wants to mirror Amazon’s lessons in all biomes, but challenges await
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 13:35:56 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2023/02/lula-wants-to-mirror-amazons-lessons-in-all-biomes-but-challenges-await/>
"Between 2004 and 2012, Brazil was able to slash deforestation by nearly 84%
with a series of policies known as PPCDAm, a major instrument in reducing
environmental destruction in the Amazon Rainforest.
(More...)
‘The right direction’: new B.C. plan could actually protect old-growth forests
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 20:27:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://thenarwhal.ca/bc-forestry-plan-old-growth/
"A “war in the woods” has simmered for decades in B.C., sometimes erupting into
high-profile protests and arrests over plans to log ancient trees in places
like Clayoquot Sound and Fairy Creek.
(More...)
An Old Railway Running Through Singapore Is Now a Thriving Nature Reserve
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 20:28:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/1Hnt6
"A former railway line running through the heart of Singapore has turned into
one of its biggest conservation success stories, marking a departure from the
more manicured approach to nature that the city-state is known for.
(More...)
Culture war in the stacks: Librarians marshal against rising book bans
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 20:29:57 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2023/03/02/culture-war-stacks-librarians-marshal-against-rising-book-bans/>
"NEW ORLEANS — Cheers erupted as Jamie Gregory strode onstage to receive an
award, the “Oscar for librarians,” as it is known to the hundreds of library
workers who gathered at a convention center here recently to discuss the future
(More...)
Giving Up Is Not an Option: Book Censorship News, March 3, 2023
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 20:31:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://bookriot.com/giving-up-is-not-an-option-book-censorship-news-march-3-2023/>
"We’re all tired.
The coordinated attacks on everything from Drag Queen story hours to Pride
(More...)
Reciprocal Water Agreements protect millions of hectares of Bolivian forest
Sat, 18 Mar 2023 20:32:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2023/01/reciprocal-water-agreements-protect-millions-of-hectares-of-bolivian-forest/>
"More than a decade ago, Bolivia pioneered an innovative conservation project.
For the very first time, inhabitants of the same watershed, both those living
in rural areas and in cities, could work together to protect the forest and its
(More...)
‘Historic’ deal to protect high seas agreed by UN member states
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 04:43:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/3/5/un-nations-agree-to-historic-deal-to-protect-high-seas>
"UN member states have finally agreed to a text on the first international
treaty to protect the high seas, a fragile and vital treasure that covers
nearly half the planet.
(More...)
‘Very precarious’: Europe faces growing water crisis as winter drought worsens
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 04:45:22 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/weather/2023/mar/04/very-precarious-europe-faces-growing-water-crisis-as-winter-drought-worsens>
"The scenes are rare enough in mid-summer; in early March, they are
unprecedented. Lac de Montbel in south-west France is more than 80% empty, the
boats of the local sailing club stranded on its desiccated brown banks.
(More...)
An EV charger every 50 miles: Here’s the plan to keep them running
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 04:46:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://arstechnica.com/cars/2023/02/heres-how-the-government-plans-to-make-ev-chargers-common-and-reliable/>
"The last few years have, after much inaction, seen a flurry of new policies
informed by the looming threat of climate change. Among these has been the
National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, which will spend almost $5
(More...)
Sparks - The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte (Official Video) - Starring Cate Blanchett
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 04:47:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTAxPhxADo0
"Music video for
The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte by Sparks, from the new
album of the same title out May 26th."
(More...)
How an Afghan girls’ school principal fled the Taliban
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 04:48:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2023/3/5/cant-go-back-how-an-afghan-girls-principal-fled-the-taliban>
"On a cold November day, Aqila Tavakali and her 14-year-old son brace
themselves against an icy wind as they walk the several blocks from their
temporary apartment to his new school.
(More...)
Fishing communities create marine refuges to protect Chile’s biodiversity
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 12:19:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2023/02/fishing-communities-create-marine-refuges-to-protect-chiles-biodiversity/>
"Protecting the oceans is crucial to societies’ survival because, as the United
Nations has recognized, they “drive the global systems that make the Earth a
habitable place for humans.” The world’s oceans regulate the climate, provide
(More...)
Why ChatGPT should be considered a malevolent AI – and be destroyed
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 12:21:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.theregister.com/2023/03/02/chatgpt_considered_harmful/
"“I’m sorry Dave, I’m afraid I can’t do that.”
These were the words that introduced most people in my generation to the
(More...)
Sex and lies are used to sell vapes online. Even we were surprised at the marketing tactics we found
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 12:24:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/sex-and-lies-are-used-to-sell-vapes-online-even-we-were-surprised-at-the-marketing-tactics-we-found-200446>
"It’s easy to buy vapes or e-cigarettes online. When we looked at websites
selling them to buyers in Australia and New Zealand, we found a variety of
slick, false or misleading marketing claims.
(More...)
‘It’s like finding needles in a haystack’: the mission to discover if Jupiter’s moons support life
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 12:25:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2023/mar/05/could-jupiters-icy-moons-support-life>
"For most of the past 200 years, were you to ask an astronomer where the most
likely place in the solar system is to find life, the answer will have been
Mars. The red planet and its potential inhabitants have captured our collective
(More...)
A potted history of smoking, and how we’re making the same mistakes with vaping
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 20:21:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-potted-history-of-smoking-and-how-were-making-the-same-mistakes-with-vaping-200708>
"When smoking first became popular we were told it was healthy, it was heavily
marketed (including to young people) as being cool, and the time it took for us
to learn otherwise was long, and came too late for many. Unfortunately, it
(More...)
Kenyan Court First To Tell Meta It Can’t Walk Away From A Lawsuit Just By Claiming It’s Not From Around Here
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 20:22:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/03/kenyan-court-first-to-tell-meta-it-cant-walk-away-from-a-lawsuit-just-by-claiming-its-not-from-around-here/>
"A lawsuit filed over exploitation of content moderators will be allowed to
continue, according to a recent ruling by a Kenyan court. Former employees of
Meta sued the company in the Kenya Employment and Labour Relations Court last
(More...)
How the push to end tobacco advertising in the 1970s could be used to curb gambling ads today
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 20:23:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-the-push-to-end-tobacco-advertising-in-the-1970s-could-be-used-to-curb-gambling-ads-today-200915>
"If you think you are seeing a lot more gambling ads on television and online
platforms, you are not imagining it. They are so common that high-profile AFL
players have refused to participate in sponsored gambling.
(More...)
Cyber attacks against Ukraine shift to NATO countries
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 20:24:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.technologydecisions.com.au/content/security/article/cyber-attacks-against-ukraine-shift-to-nato-countries-514126144>
"New data from Check Point Research (CPR) shows that cyber warfare has
escalated in line with the Russia–Ukraine war. Notable trends include a shift
in cyber attacks on NATO countries.
(More...)
Letters from an American: March 5, 2023 (Sunday)
Sun, 19 Mar 2023 20:25:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/march-5-2023-sunday
"President Joe Biden spoke this afternoon in Selma, Alabama, to commemorate the
58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, when law enforcement officers tried to beat
into silence Black Americans marching for their right to have a say in the
(More...)
New blood types are often discovered following medical disasters
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:46:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://bigthink.com/health/new-blood-types-discovered-medical-disasters/>
"Over the last 120 years, scientists have discovered 44 blood typing systems.
These discoveries, which have saved millions of lives, often follow tragic and
disastrous medical events."
(More...)
The 'phone lady' made a career out of teaching people how to speak on the phone. She's in high demand
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:47:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-06/the-phone-lady-mary-jane-copps-phone-anxiety/102015450>
'Mary Jane Copps is known as "the phone lady".
Her job involves literally training people how to have a conversation on the
(More...)
'It's amazing what people give away': The joy and savings of a buy-nothing group
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:48:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.abc.net.au/everyday/how-buy-nothing-groups-work/102032146
'Kirrily Graham is the kind of person who hates throwing things away.
"I'm very much about looking after the environment and waste just drives me
(More...)
The long and storied history of transgender people in Australia and beyond
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:50:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-03/the-long-history-of-transgender-people-in-australia-and-beyond/102037662>
'In 2014, transgender actress Laverne Cox was on
Time Magazine's front cover,
with a headline heralding "the transgender tipping point".
(More...)
No, the Fukushima water release is not going to kill the Pacific Ocean
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:51:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/no-the-fukushima-water-release-is-not-going-to-kill-the-pacific-ocean-200902>
"Japanese authorities are preparing to release treated radioactive wastewater
into the Pacific Ocean, nearly 12 years after the Fukushima nuclear disaster.
This will relieve pressure on more than 1,000 storage tanks, creating
(More...)
The Health Risks of Gas Stoves Explained
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:38:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-health-risks-of-gas-stoves-explained/>
"The Internet has been aflame in recent days over gas stoves—specifically, over
whether they are harmful to human health and can or should be banned in the
U.S. But this is not a new issue.
(More...)
A neighbourhood ‘war zone’ and a garden-gate overdose sparked Judy Ryan’s fight for Victoria’s first safe injecting room
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:40:27 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Unlikely Rebels With a Very Good Cause
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:41:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/25/books/review/the-exceptions-kate-zernike.html>
"The word “exception” implies rules, and as we know, rules are made to be
broken. But in real life, it can be a frustrating business — especially if
you’re a woman in science, especially in the decades leading up to the 21st
(More...)
Dangerous selfies aren’t just foolish. We need to treat them like the public health hazard they really are
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:42:25 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Rishi Sunak to launch bill to stop people arriving on small boats claiming asylum
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:43:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2023/mar/05/sunak-to-launch-bill-to-bar-asylum-claims-from-people-arriving-on-small-boats>
"Rishi Sunak is to announce new laws stopping people entering the UK on small
boats from claiming asylum, with the prime minister saying: “Make no mistake,
if you come here illegally, you will not to be able to stay.”
(More...)
Buildings used iron from sunken ships centuries ago. The use of recycled materials should be business as usual by now
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 19:58:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/buildings-used-iron-from-sunken-ships-centuries-ago-the-use-of-recycled-materials-should-be-business-as-usual-by-now-200351>
"At Fremantle Prison in the 1850s, when metal was scarce, the prison gate and
handrails were made from iron recovered from sunken ships. As I toured the
prison recently, I reflected on how similar the situation was when COVID-19
(More...)
‘Let’s get real’: scientists discover a new way climate change threatens cold-blooded animals
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 19:58:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/lets-get-real-scientists-discover-a-new-way-climate-change-threatens-cold-blooded-animals-201076>
"All animals need energy to live. They use it to breathe, circulate blood,
digest food and move. Young animals use energy to grow, and later in life, to
reproduce.
(More...)
A more hawkish China policy? 5 takeaways from House committee’s inaugural hearing on confronting Beijing
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 19:59:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-more-hawkish-china-policy-5-takeaways-from-house-committees-inaugural-hearing-on-confronting-beijing-200953>
"In a rare show of bipartisanship, Republican and Democratic House members put
on a united front as they probed how to respond to the perceived growing threat
of China.
(More...)
Antipsychotics are increasingly being prescribed to children – here’s why we should be concerned
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 20:00:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/antipsychotics-are-increasingly-being-prescribed-to-children-heres-why-we-should-be-concerned-198559>
"An increasing number of young people in the UK are being referred to child and
adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). Alongside this is the rising number
of children prescribed medicines that treat mental illness.
(More...)
David Revoy (Comic Artist): “At First, Publishing Under a Free License Scared Me”
Mon, 20 Mar 2023 20:01:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://adrienplazas.com/blog/2023/03/06/david-revoy-comic-artist-at-first-publishing-under-a-free-license-scared-me.html>
"Making comics, deciding to give up copyright and hoping to make a living from
them in capitalist lands, what an idea! Yet that’s what the comic artist and
librist activist David Revoy decided to do. Here’s a look at his unusual
(More...)
What are these ‘cancer vaccines’ I’m hearing about? And what similarities do they share with COVID vaccines?
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:36:13 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
A Year Ago Today Was the First Time Russia Threatened To Kill Me
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:36:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/the-narrative-arc/a-year-ago-today-was-the-first-time-russia-threatened-to-kill-me-im-still-alive-297a5a3fde7c>
"One year ago today was the first time I fled my house due to a threat. It was
eight days after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The night of the
invasion, I made a Reddit post offering my airline miles, and ended up matching
(More...)
Collagen craze drives deforestation and rights abuses
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:38:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.thebureauinvestigates.com/stories/2023-03-06/collagen-wellness-industrys-star-product-drives-deforestation-and-rights-abuses>
"The stench arrives before the lorries do. They are carrying skins that were
stripped from cattle carcasses days ago. Flies are everywhere.
(More...)
Gas industry knew about air pollution problems from stoves in early 1970s
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:39:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/gas-industry-knew-about-air-pollution-problems-from-stoves-in-early-1970s/>
"At the end of December 2022, when Americans were getting ready to spend hours
indoors with family and friends — often in their kitchens, preparing holiday
meals on the stovetop — a new study reignited a decades-old debate.
(More...)
From furry families to fungi: the World Nature Photography awards – in pictures
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:40:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2023/mar/06/from-furry-families-to-fungi-the-world-nature-photography-awards-in-pictures>
"With entries from 45 countries, the World Nature Photography awards 2022 have
left no corner of the Earth unexplored in the quest to capture nature with a
fresh perspective. The grand prize winner was the German photographer Jens
(More...)
Webroach - xroach for webpages
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:47:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://janjongerden.nl/blog/webroach.html
"I decided it was time to bring back xroach, but this time for the web. Using
the original cockroach images, my limited javascript skills and some hacking, I
came up with webroach"
(More...)
Underlying Australia’s inflation problem is a historic shift of income from workers to corporate profits
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:48:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/underlying-australias-inflation-problem-is-a-historic-shift-of-income-from-workers-to-corporate-profits-200700>
"The three years since the onset of the pandemic have witnessed a dramatic
redistribution of national income, away from labour compensation and towards
business profits.
(More...)
When Given The Choice, Most Authors Reject Excessively Long Copyright Terms
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:49:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/06/when-given-the-choice-most-authors-reject-excessively-long-copyright-terms/>
"Recently,
Walled Culture mentioned the problem of orphan works. These are
creations, typically books, that are still covered by copyright, but
unavailable because the original publisher or distributor has gone out of
(More...)
Lie detection tests have worked the same way for 3,000 years – and they’re still hopelessly inaccurate
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:50:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/lie-detection-tests-have-worked-the-same-way-for-3-000-years-and-theyre-still-hopelessly-inaccurate-200741>
"Popular culture is fascinated with the ability to detect liars. Lie detector
tests are a staple of police dramas, and TV shows such as
Poker Face feature
“human polygraphs” who detect deception by picking up tell-tale signs in
(More...)
Finally, Australia sees video games are important – but it can’t be only because they make money
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:54:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/games/2023/mar/06/finally-australia-sees-video-games-are-important-but-it-cant-be-only-because-they-make-money>
"If you head to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (Acmi) in Melbourne
right now, you can visit
Out of Bounds, an exhibition that “explores the
limits of videogames”. There you can watch
The Grannies: a documentary about
(More...)
Lost in the Stock
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 20:00:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.eater.com/23552129/what-is-in-store-bought-chicken-stock
"When I was growing up, my family would occasionally buy canned or boxed
chicken broth, and my mom would always say, “but it’s not as good as the real
thing.” The real thing being, of course, homemade: that golden, translucent,
(More...)
Russia’s foreign minister got laughter, cheers and shrugs in India. Outrage over the war isn’t universal
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 20:01:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/russias-foreign-minister-got-laughter-cheers-and-shrugs-in-india-outrage-over-the-war-isnt-universal-201163>
"Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov made headlines over the weekend when
his claim the Ukraine war was “launched against” Russia provoked laughter from
the audience during a forum in India.
(More...)
As Western Sydney residents grapple with climate change, they want political action
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 20:02:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/as-western-sydney-residents-grapple-with-climate-change-they-want-political-action-200917>
"Western Sydney is being developed rapidly, increasing its already high
vulnerability to climate change. One day in January 2020, Penrith was the
hottest place on Earth. Residents who have endured searing heat, bushfires,
(More...)
Refugees held offshore plead with Australia to be moved, saying ‘every day is suffering’
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 20:03:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/06/refugees-held-offshore-plead-with-australia-to-be-moved-saying-every-day-is-suffering>
"Refugees held in offshore processing by Australia have appealed directly to
the government to get them off the islands where they have been held for a
decade.
(More...)
Revealed: 1,000 super-emitting methane leaks risk triggering climate tipping points
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 20:05:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/mar/06/revealed-1000-super-emitting-methane-leaks-risk-triggering-climate-tipping-points>
"More than 1,000 “super-emitter” sites gushed the potent greenhouse gas methane
into the global atmosphere in 2022, the
Guardian can reveal, mostly from oil
and gas facilities. The worst single leak spewed the pollution at a rate
(More...)
More than just risk: LGBTQIA+ young people use social media to sustain and make sense of family relationships
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:47:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/more-than-just-risk-lgbtqia-young-people-use-social-media-to-sustain-and-make-sense-of-family-relationships-200534>
"Much of World Pride has been about the visibility of LGBTQIA+ people. This is
important to affirming who we are, our place in the world, and celebrating
ourselves as LGBTQIA+ individuals. Social media offers new opportunities to be
(More...)
Resistance to mega-tourism is rising in the South Pacific – but will governments put words into action?
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:47:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/resistance-to-mega-tourism-is-rising-in-the-south-pacific-but-will-governments-put-words-into-action-201071>
"With COVID-19 travel restrictions largely a thing of the past for Australian
and New Zealand tourists, Pacific destinations are enjoying the return of
visitors – albeit at a slower pace than in other parts of the world.
(More...)
When is a nature reserve not a nature reserve? When it’s already been burned and logged
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:48:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/when-is-a-nature-reserve-not-a-nature-reserve-when-its-already-been-burned-and-logged-200528>
"Australia has the world’s worst mammal extinction record, with nearly 40
native mammal species lost since European colonisation. By contrast, the United
States has lost three.
(More...)
MAGA sinks GOP trolling to genocidal lows
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:50:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.salon.com/2023/03/07/maga-sinks-trolling-to-genocidal-lows/
'There are two intended audiences for the Conservative Political Action
Conference (CPAC), the semi-annual right-wing conference that has made itself
the center of the MAGA movement: the people in the crowd and the liberals
(More...)
Arnold Schwarzenegger has a powerful message for those who have gone down a path of hate.
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:51:57 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsETTn7DehI
As always, don’t read the YouTube comments.
Via Touaregtweet, Hans van Zijst and Kenny Chaffin.
(More...)
Can a machine be racist? Artificial Intelligence has shown troubling signs of bias, but there are reasons for optimism
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 13:03:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Ban on hunting birds with lead shot in EU wetlands hailed as ‘huge milestone’
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 13:04:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Repeat product recalls don’t always prompt change
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 13:06:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.futurity.org/product-recall-change-2885572-2/
"New research identifies the consequences that actually motivate a company to
change after product recalls.
(More...)
Tree weighing eight tonnes pulled from South Australia's Murray River as floodwater recedes
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 13:07:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-06/tree-removal-murray-river-flood-south-australia/102059800>
'A tree weighing eight tonnes is among the items being fished out of South
Australia's Murray River as floodwater continues to recede.
(More...)
From lollies and baked beans to internet cafes and selfie sticks — the long history of the Australian corner shop
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 13:08:45 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Health care offered to women in prison should match community standards – and their rights
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 22:13:27 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/health-care-offered-to-women-in-prison-should-match-community-standards-and-their-rights-200656>
"There are 3,088 women imprisoned in Australia on any given day, representing
7.5% of the prison population. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are
over-represented in these numbers.
(More...)
The One Expression That Epitomizes the Japanese Approach to Life
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 22:15:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/japonica-publication/the-japanese-expression-that-epitomizes-the-japanese-approach-to-life-50819caf803e>
"When you study introductory Japanese, you learn a set of daily expressions:
konnichi wa, sumimasen, gomen nasai, arigatō...
(More...)
Is the poisoning of schoolgirls in Iran a new front in the war against girls’ education?
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 22:16:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/is-the-poisoning-of-schoolgirls-in-iran-a-new-front-in-the-war-against-girls-education-201291>
"Recent media attention has drawn global focus on an escalating number of
Iranian schoolgirls falling ill over the past few months because of suspected
chemical attacks. Accounts differ, but many reports cite more than 1,000 cases
(More...)
ChatGPT Is a Blurry JPEG of the Web
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 22:16:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.newyorker.com/tech/annals-of-technology/chatgpt-is-a-blurry-jpeg-of-the-web>
"In 2013, workers at a German construction company noticed something odd about
their Xerox photocopier: when they made a copy of the floor plan of a house,
the copy differed from the original in a subtle but significant way. In the
(More...)
Protest is dangerous, but feminists have a long history of using humour, pranks and stunts to promote their message
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 22:17:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
The Satellite Hack Everyone Is Finally Talking About
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 05:29:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bloomberg.com/features/2023-russia-viasat-hack-ukraine/
"Andreas Wickberg loves snowmobiling to the house he built in the icy reaches
of Lapland, north of the Arctic Circle. Each month come spring, he and his wife
relocate for a week or so to a “very, very isolated” spot about 335 miles
(More...)
NSW police drop claim that protest involving Deanna ‘Violet’ Coco blocked ambulance
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 05:31:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/07/nsw-police-drop-claim-that-protest-involving-deanna-violet-coco-blocked-ambulance>
"Police have backtracked on their claim that a climate protest on the Sydney
Harbour Bridge last year blocked an ambulance with its sirens running from
responding to an emergency, an assertion repeatedly referred to in the jail
(More...)
Inclusion means everyone: 5 disability attitude shifts to end violence, abuse and neglect
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 05:32:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/inclusion-means-everyone-5-disability-attitude-shifts-to-end-violence-abuse-and-neglect-199003>
"The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People
with Disability is moving into its final phase and will report its findings in
September.
(More...)
Predictive Policing Makes Everyone A Suspect, Even EU Officials
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 05:33:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/06/predictive-policing-makes-everyone-a-suspect-even-eu-officials/>
"We’ve long known so-called “predictive policing” is garbage. It’s the same old
biased policing, except shinier and more expensive. Every system in place
relies on data generated by policework — data instantly tainted by the things
(More...)
Solar power can cut living costs, but it’s not an option for many people – they need better support
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 05:34:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/solar-power-can-cut-living-costs-but-its-not-an-option-for-many-people-they-need-better-support-201090>
"As the cost of living soars, many Australian households are turning to rooftop
solar to cut their energy costs. A
Pulse of the Nation survey last month
showed about 29% of Australians have installed or are considering installing
(More...)
Copyright Fraud Deployed To Silence Journalists In Equatorial Guinea
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:18:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/07/copyright-fraud-deployed-to-silence-journalists-in-equatorial-guinea/>
"The DMCA lends itself to abuse. The intent of the law was to limit copyright
infringement on services hosting user-generated content by providing safe
harbors for service providers who made good faith efforts to respond to DMCA
(More...)
We now have a treaty governing the high seas. Can it protect the Wild West of the oceans?
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:19:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/we-now-have-a-treaty-governing-the-high-seas-can-it-protect-the-wild-west-of-the-oceans-201184>
"Delegates gave a jubilant cheer at United Nations Headquarters in New York on
Saturday night, as nations reached an agreement on ways to protect marine life
in the high seas and the international seabed area.
(More...)
Developers Created AI to Generate Police Sketches. Experts Are Horrified
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:20:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.vice.com/en/article/qjk745/ai-police-sketches
"Two developers have used OpenAI’s DALL-E 2 image generation model to create a
forensic sketch program that can create “hyper-realistic” police sketches of a
suspect based on user inputs.
(More...)
How I Broke Into a Bank Account With an AI-Generated Voice
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:26:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
52 Blue: The loneliest whale in the world
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:28:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://magazine.atavist.com/52-blue/
"December 7, 1992: Whidbey Island, Puget Sound. The World Wars were over. The
other wars were over: Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf. The Cold War was
finally over, too. The Whidbey Island Naval Air Station remained. So did the
(More...)
How many satellites can we safely fit in Earth orbit?
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 22:40:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.space.com/how-many-satellites-fit-safely-earth-orbit
'Just 10 years ago, a mere thousand or so operational satellites may have
orbited our planet, but there will be tens or even hundreds of thousands a
decade from now.
(More...)
The Wollemi Pine’s Survival Proves We Can Save More Trees
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 22:41:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
How the Biggest Fraud in German History Unravelled
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 22:42:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/03/06/how-the-biggest-fraud-in-german-history-unravelled>
"Late in the spring of 2020, Jan Marsalek, an Austrian bank executive, was
suspended from his job. He was a widely admired figure in the European business
community—charismatic, trilingual, and well travelled. Even at his busiest, as
(More...)
Alongside Math and Reading, Schools Are Now Teaching Happiness
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 22:43:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/alongside-math-and-reading-schools-are-now-teaching-happiness/>
"The children at the elementary school in Braunschweig, Germany, are planting a
“garden of emotions.” One by one, they step up to the front of their class, in
their hand a yellow or orange paper flower, on which they have written what
(More...)
The Era of Faked CCTV Has Truly Arrived
Thu, 23 Mar 2023 22:44:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.wired.com/story/cctv-malinformation-iran-protest/
"While Jamal Khashoggi was being carefully slaughtered in the Saudi consulate
in Istanbul, a (clumsy and not much alike) man was trying out his shoes and
clothes. The plan was for the imposter to appear on CCTV cameras while exiting
(More...)
How Norway Can Help Cure America’s “Range Anxiety”
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 06:23:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/norway-electric-car-charging-points-infrastructure/>
"When Trondheim-based Magnus Korpås bought his first electric car in 2019, he
settled on a Tesla—the model of car that offered the most charging stations
available to him at the time. However, in just a few years, Norway built out
(More...)
Saving 4 Million Books From Landfill
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 06:24:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://blog.archive.org/2023/03/08/saving-4-million-books-from-landfill/>
"It’s the classic librarian’s dilemma: Because no library has unlimited
storage, every library has to carefully manage its physical collection, and
that means removing books to make space for new ones. On one hand, it’s
(More...)
Bushfire smoke eats up the ozone protecting us from dangerous radiation. The damage will increase as the world heats up
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 06:25:04 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/bushfire-smoke-eats-up-the-ozone-protecting-us-from-dangerous-radiation-the-damage-will-increase-as-the-world-heats-up-201375>
"Can bushfire smoke reduce the concentration of ozone in the stratosphere? A
decade ago, we might have been sceptical. But there’s a growing body of
research showing a clear link.
(More...)
Could The Whole World Be Powered by Rooftop Solar?
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 06:25:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/the-new-climate/could-the-whole-world-be-powered-by-rooftop-solar-444a14046f1d>
"I am, after years of debating — and saving — finally having solar panels
fitted to the roof of my house, combined with a home battery pack. The soaring
costs of gas and electricity in the UK have finally tipped the balance to make
(More...)
Electricity from thin air: an enzyme from bacteria can extract energy from hydrogen in the atmosphere
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 06:26:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/electricity-from-thin-air-an-enzyme-from-bacteria-can-extract-energy-from-hydrogen-in-the-atmosphere-200432>
"It may sound surprising, but when times are tough and there is no other food
available, some soil bacteria can consume traces of hydrogen in the air as an
energy source.
(More...)
Australia invests $4.29bn in renewable energy in December quarter, 10 times the previous three months
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:12:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/09/australia-invests-429bn-in-renewable-energy-in-december-quarter-10-times-the-previous-three-months>
"Investment in large-scale renewable energy and storage accelerated in the
final three months of 2022, creating the largest quarterly investments for more
than four years, but the pace remains inadequate, the Clean Energy Council
(More...)
UN condemns arbitrary detention of Iranian refugee in Australia
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:13:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/3/9/un-condemns-arbitrary-detention-of-iranian-refugee-in-australia>
"Sydney, Australia – The United Nations has condemned Australia’s prolonged
immigration detention of an Ahwaz Iranian asylum seeker.
(More...)
First the floods, then the diseases – why NZ should brace for outbreaks of spillover infections from animals
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:14:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/first-the-floods-then-the-diseases-why-nz-should-brace-for-outbreaks-of-spillover-infections-from-animals-201162>
"When Cyclone Gabrielle hit New Zealand in February, it left a trail of
destruction across the North Island. At least 11 people died, and more than
10,000 were displaced. Bridges were washed out (35 in the Hastings district
(More...)
The climate benefits of a four-day workweek
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:18:11 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20230220-is-a-4-day-workweek-good-for-the-climate>
'In 2011, Simon Ursell and the three other co-founders of newly born
environmental consultancy Tyler Grange based in Gloucestershire, UK, decided to
give all their workers a day off a month to volunteer.
(More...)
Australia’s first female journalists reported on wars and human rights around the world – but many died in obscurity
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:20:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
How E-Bike Rebates Will Make Cycling Safer
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 22:31:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Tunisia’s president is targeting migrants to divert attention from serious domestic problems – a classic tactic
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 22:32:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/tunisias-president-is-targeting-migrants-to-divert-attention-from-serious-domestic-problems-a-classic-tactic-201404>
"Tunisia’s president Kais Saied recently called for urgent measures against
illegal immigration of sub-Saharan African nationals. He said they were a
source of “violence, crime and unacceptable acts”. His comments were condemned
(More...)
In Namibia, Lions Are King of the Beach
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 22:34:45 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://hakaimagazine.com/news/in-namibia-lions-are-king-of-the-beach/
"On a desolate stretch of Namibia’s arid Skeleton Coast National Park, an
invisible fence is keeping lions and visitors apart.
(More...)
Illegal immigration bill does more than ‘push the boundaries’ of international law
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 22:35:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/illegal-immigration-bill-does-more-than-push-the-boundaries-of-international-law-201332>
"The UK government has introduced its latest effort to deter small boat
migration, by vowing to remove all those who arrive in the UK illegally by any
route. The illegal migration bill, if enacted, will apply retrospectively,
(More...)
UK moves to copy Australia’s cruel asylum-seeker policy – and it will have the same heavy human toll
Fri, 24 Mar 2023 22:36:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/uk-moves-to-copy-australias-cruel-asylum-seeker-policy-and-it-will-have-the-same-heavy-human-toll-201390>
"The United Kingdom’s Illegal Migration Bill, introduced in the House of
Commons this week, will look very familiar to Australians.
(More...)
The high seas are supposed to belong to everyone – a new UN treaty aims to make it law
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 06:39:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-high-seas-are-supposed-to-belong-to-everyone-a-new-un-treaty-aims-to-make-it-law-201245>
"It may come as a surprise to fellow land-dwellers, but the ocean actually
accounts for most of the habitable space on our planet. Yet a big chunk of it
has been left largely unmanaged. It’s a vast global common resource, and the
(More...)
This GIANT Electric Semi Can Swap Out Its Batteries!
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 06:39:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eYLtPSf7PY
"Over a million miles, 620 KWh of batteries, a 540 KW Drive and 97 tonnes. This
is the episode jam packed with big electric trucks and even bigger numbers!
Robert travelled to New South Wales, Australia to find out how Janus Trucks are
(More...)
Global warming is changing Canada’s boreal forest and tundra
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 06:40:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/global-warming-is-changing-canadas-boreal-forest-and-tundra-198959>
"Global warming is affecting the boreal forest — what happens will depend on
the climate, vegetation and the frequency and intensity of wildfires. Changes
in the north include increases or decreases in leaf growth, called Arctic
(More...)
Indoor air is full of flu and COVID viruses. Will countries clean it up?
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 06:42:25 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-00642-9
"Bars in Belgium could be among the healthiest places to have a drink, come
July. That’s when a new law goes into effect, requiring public venues to meet
air-quality targets and display real-time measurements of carbon dioxide
(More...)
Pentagon Blocks Sharing Evidence of Possible Russian War Crimes With Hague Court
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 14:32:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/08/us/politics/pentagon-war-crimes-hague.html>
"WASHINGTON — The Pentagon is blocking the Biden administration from sharing
evidence with the International Criminal Court in The Hague gathered by
American intelligence agencies about Russian atrocities in Ukraine, according
(More...)
How to organize your books, according to people with thousands of them
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 14:33:45 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2023/03/03/how-to-organize-books/
"Here’s a riddle for you: When a book editor and political science professor
downsize from a six-bedroom house in the suburbs to a 900-square-foot Manhattan
apartment, how many books will they have to get rid of? For Matthew Budman (the
(More...)
Three years into the pandemic, it’s clear COVID won’t fix itself. Here’s what we need to focus on next
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 14:34:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Almost Nowhere on Earth Is Safe From Air Pollution Now, Scientists Warn
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 14:36:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/almost-nowhere-on-earth-is-safe-from-air-pollution-now-scientists-warn>
"A world-first study has found almost nowhere left on Earth with consistently
safe levels of air pollution.
(More...)
The road to March 15: ‘networked white rage’ and the Christchurch terror attacks
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 14:37:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-road-to-march-15-networked-white-rage-and-the-christchurch-terror-attacks-201285>
"The massacres of March 15 2019 at two Christchurch mosques confirmed the far
right remains a constant threat to public order and safety in New Zealand, and
that this threat was largely overlooked by security and intelligence agencies.
(More...)
Copyright Has Been One Of Life’s Certainties: But Will It Always Be?
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 22:20:11 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/09/copyright-has-been-one-of-lifes-certainties-but-will-it-always-be/>
"Copyright seems to be a fixture of our legal, economic and social systems. For
300 years, it has formed the backbone of the structures used to incentivize and
remunerate creators. During that time, copyright has been extended repeatedly
(More...)
Shell chief’s pay package rose by more than 50% to nearly £10m in 2022
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 22:31:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/mar/09/shell-chief-ben-van-beurden-pay-2022>
"The recently departed chief executive of Shell’s pay jumped more than 50% to
nearly £10m in 2022, including a bonus labelled “jaw-dropping” by campaigners.
(More...)
A tonne of fossil carbon isn’t the same as a tonne of new trees: why offsets can’t save us
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 22:31:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-tonne-of-fossil-carbon-isnt-the-same-as-a-tonne-of-new-trees-why-offsets-cant-save-us-200901>
"This week, the Albanese government is attempting to reform the safeguard
mechanism to try to make it actually cut emissions from our highest polluting
industrial facilities.
(More...)
Penguin paradise and geological freak: why Macquarie Island deserves a bigger marine park
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 22:33:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/penguin-paradise-and-geological-freak-why-macquarie-island-deserves-a-bigger-marine-park-201368>
"Macquarie Island, around 1,500km southeast of Tasmania, is more than just a
remote rocky outcrop. In fact, it’s the only piece of land on the planet formed
completely from ocean floor, which rises above the waves to form peaks that
(More...)
Rising temperatures in tropics to lead to lower coffee yields and higher prices, study suggests
Sat, 25 Mar 2023 22:34:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/mar/09/rising-temperatures-in-tropics-to-lead-to-lower-coffee-yields-and-higher-prices-study-suggests>
"Climate conditions that reduce coffee yield have become more frequent over the
past four decades, with rising temperatures from global heating likely to lead
to “ongoing systemic shocks” to coffee production globally, new research
(More...)
Covid backlash hobbles public health and future pandemic response
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 05:39:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2023/03/08/covid-public-health-backlash/>
"When the next pandemic sweeps the United States, health officials in Ohio
won’t be able to shutter businesses or schools, even if they become epicenters
of outbreaks. Nor will they be empowered to force Ohioans who have been exposed
(More...)
Biden Hands the Covid Response to the Private Market, Endangering Us All
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 05:44:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://inthesetimes.com/article/covid-1200-vaccine-health
"In this year’s State of the Union address, President Joe Biden took care to
portray the ongoing coronavirus pandemic as a trial that is behind us and a
victory for the people. “Today, Covid no longer controls our lives,” Biden
(More...)
How Zipline’s instant delivery is changing public health in Ghana
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 05:55:24 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://gna.org.gh/2023/02/how-ziplines-instant-delivery-is-changing-public-health-in-ghana/>
"Accra, Feb. 15, GNA – Vaccines are powerful public health tools, but they’re
only as good as their reach. And traditionally, people with means who live
closer to cities access them more easily than others.
(More...)
Painted Into Corners
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 05:57:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://catherder.substack.com/p/painted-into-corners
"Sometime in mid-March of 2020, my husband suggested that we visit our favorite
local restaurant, as it might be the last time we could for a little while.
Covid-19 had made its way here and shutdowns were coming. Back then I didn’t
(More...)
In Australia’s Election, Rupert Murdoch Was a Surprise Loser
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 06:00:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theintercept.com/2022/05/30/rupert-murdoch-australia-election-anthony-albanese/>
"Rupert Murdoch, who oversees a global media empire that includes Fox News,
doesn’t like losing, but he just tasted defeat in Australia’s election. Despite
years in which Murdoch’s media properties vociferously backed conservative
(More...)
Dutch Supermarket Adds “Slow Checkout Lanes” for Senior Citizens Who Could Use a Chat
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 11:59:51 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://mymodernmet.com/dutch-supermarket-slow-lanes-kletskassa/
"Loneliness is one of the main issues that affects senior citizens around the
world, especially in urban settings where everything is fast paced and
increasingly digitized. That's why a Dutch company came up with an idea to
(More...)
Robots are performing Hindu rituals – some devotees fear they’ll replace worshippers
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 12:00:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/robots-are-performing-hindu-rituals-some-devotees-fear-theyll-replace-worshippers-197504>
"It isn’t just artists and teachers who are losing sleep over advances in
automation and artificial intelligence. Robots are being brought into
Hinduism’s holiest rituals – and not all worshippers are happy about it.
(More...)
Marking 50 Years in the Struggle for Democracy
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 12:01:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2023/marking-50-years
"The global struggle for democracy approached a possible turning point in 2022.
The gap between the number of countries that registered overall improvements in
political rights and civil liberties and those that registered overall declines
(More...)
Letters from an American: March 10, 2023
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 12:02:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/march-10-2023
"At the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) last weekend, Daily
Wire host Michael Knowles said that “for the good of society…transgenderism
must be eradicated from public life entirely—the whole preposterous ideology,
(More...)
A Call From the High Seas to Stop Fighting and Start Cooperating
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 12:03:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://archive.md/LTdeq
"The highest drama in New York last Saturday night took place in a badly lit
room of the United Nations building. Bleary delegates from 193 countries had
been cooped up there for two days without a break, and off and on for two weeks
(More...)
How Russia’s War Against Ukraine Is Advancing LGBTQ Rights
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 20:01:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/03/07/russias-war-ukraine-advancing-lgbtq-rights-00085841>
"KYIV — Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has galvanized Ukrainian society in many
unexpected ways, but perhaps one of the most remarkable is how it has advanced
the rights of LGBTQ people.
(More...)
Panama ocean conference draws $20 billion, marine biodiversity commitments
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 20:02:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2023/03/panama-ocean-conference-draws-20-billion-marine-biodiversity-commitments/>
"International delegates attending the eighth annual Our Ocean Conference in
Panama March 2-3 have pledged billions to protect the world’s oceans.
Participants made 341 commitments worth nearly $20 billion, including funding
(More...)
Carol Ferrone on the dedication to historical accuracy in "Back In Time For The Corner Shop" and what happens behind the scenes
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 20:05:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/backstory/2023-03-12/behind-the-scenes-of-back-in-time-for-the-corner-shop/102083022>
'During the filming of the ABC's historical "immersion" show,
Back In Time For
The Corner Shop, Carol Ferrone wondered if the producers' dedication to
accuracy was a bit over the top when the period outfits she was given to wear
(More...)
THE 2022 WINNERS - Travel Photographer of the Year
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 20:07:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.tpoty.com/the-2022-winners/
"From an intensely moving depiction of the extraordinary companionship between
one of the world’s last two remaining Northern White rhinos and her keeper to
aerial images of the graphic and detailed abstract curves of the Namib desert,
(More...)
How Many Books Are Published Each Year? [2023 Statistics]
Sun, 26 Mar 2023 20:08:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.tonerbuzz.com/blog/how-many-books-are-published-each-year/
"So, how many books are published every year?
The answer is more complicated than you’d think. Figures range from 500,000 to
(More...)
Restoration turns pastures into wildlife haven in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:36:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.mongabay.com/2023/03/restoration-turns-pastures-into-wildlife-haven-in-brazils-atlantic-forest/>
"CACHOEIRAS DE MACACU, Brazil — Gesturing across the still, green water
reflecting the backdrop of forest-clad mountains, Nicholas Locke told of the
time when this flourishing wetland was once a barren pasture after being
(More...)
The Koreas' DMZ: Once a bloodshed scene, now a wildlife sanctuary
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:37:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-64740679
"What once was the site of bloody armed conflict between the two Koreas has
become an unexpected wildlife sanctuary.
(More...)
Artvee
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:38:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://artvee.com/
"Discover Classical Art
Browse and download high-resolution, public domain artworks."
(More...)
The Unsurprising Reason Turbulence May Get Worse While Flying
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:39:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/the-unsurprising-reason-turbulence-may-get-worse-while-flying>
"A Lufthansa flight that had to land shortly after takeoff is just the latest
example of extreme turbulence.
(More...)
Links to the 2023 Nebula Awards nominees you can read for free
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:40:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Thurloo Downs: The largest acquisition in NSW national parks history.
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 13:50:27 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/parks-reserves-and-protected-areas/establishing-new-parks-and-protected-areas/new-parks-and-changes-to-parks/thurloo-downs>
"Thurloo Downs in the state's far north-west is being acquired by the NSW
Government for addition to the national parks estate. At 437,394 hectares –
almost twice the size of Australian Capital Territory – it is the largest
(More...)
Forget the conspiracies, 15-minute cities will free us to improve our mental health and wellbeing
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 13:51:09 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/forget-the-conspiracies-15-minute-cities-will-free-us-to-improve-our-mental-health-and-wellbeing-200823>
"The idea of the 15-minute city, according to its originator Carlos Moreno, is
that people are no more than a 15-minute walk or bike ride away from all the
services they need to live, learn and thrive.
(More...)
For Four Years I Was “Randomly Selected”for Special Security Checks at Airports Throughout the U.S.
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 13:52:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://medium.com/mystic-minds/for-four-years-i-was-randomly-selected-for-special-security-checks-at-airports-throughout-the-u-s-af180865ecaa>
"My son and I were traveling from Texas to Philadelphia to take him to see his
father. I’d printed out tickets, and headed to check our bags and get our
boarding passes at the ticket counter. All went well until we reached the
(More...)
Albanese visit hopes to strengthen ties with India amid China’s rise. But differences remain
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 13:52:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/albanese-visit-hopes-to-strengthen-ties-with-india-amid-chinas-rise-but-differences-remain-201369>
"Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made a landmark visit to India
this week in the hopes of boosting ties in trade, education and security.
(More...)
Excuseflation: Monopolists will never let a good emergency go to waste.
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 13:54:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://doctorow.medium.com/excuseflation-5de795103105
"The decision to pass modest sums out to working people to prevent them from
starving or losing their homes during the covid lockdowns made the right
furious, especially inflation hawks who insist that any improvement in everyday
(More...)
Squid fishing grew by 68% in just three years, raising fears the industry is out of control
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 21:54:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/squid-fishing-grew-by-68-in-just-three-years-raising-fears-the-industry-is-out-of-control-200943>
"Global squid fishing increased by 68% between 2017 and 2020, according to our
international analysis, prompting concerns that much of the international
fishing fleet is sidestepping necessary conservation and management.
(More...)
‘I couldn’t love her’: the last UK child migrants to Australia on the long, lonely search for their mothers
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 21:55:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/13/i-couldnt-love-her-the-last-uk-child-migrants-to-australia-on-the-long-lonely-search-for-their-mothers>
"It wasn’t until he was 71 that Michael Lachmann found out what a different
life he might have had. He had always believed he was an orphan. But, already
an old man, he discovered he was never an orphan. He had been loved and wanted.
(More...)
Wildfire Smoke Stands to Deplete The Ozone Layer, Scientists Warn
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 21:56:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.sciencealert.com/wildfire-smoke-stands-to-deplete-the-ozone-layer-scientists-warn>
"The smoke from recent wildfires is threatening to slow and even reverse the
recovery of Earth's ozone layer – the same one that the world has worked so
hard to heal since 1987.
(More...)
Saudi Aramco’s $161bn profit is largest recorded by an oil and gas firm
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 21:56:51 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/mar/12/saudi-aramco-161bn-profit-is-largest-recorded-by-an-oil-and-gas-firm>
"Saudi Aramco has reported a record $161bn (£134bn) profit for 2022, the
largest annual profit ever recorded by an oil and gas company, fuelled by
soaring energy prices and rising global demand.
(More...)
Can seaweed save the world? Well it can certainly help in many ways
Mon, 27 Mar 2023 21:57:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/can-seaweed-save-the-world-well-it-can-certainly-help-in-many-ways-201459>
"Seaweed is increasingly seen as a solution to many of the world’s most
pressing problems. Interest in farming seaweed has exploded.
(More...)
Conservation efforts celebrated as 26 Australian species no longer need threatened listing
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 10:35:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/feb/23/conservation-efforts-celebrated-as-26-australian-species-no-longer-listed-as-threatened>
"Australia may be the world’s leader in mammal extinction, with accelerating
threats to native biodiversity in a changing climate – but successful
conservation efforts may provide a glimmer of hope.
(More...)
Georgia: ‘foreign agent law’ protests show disconnect between pro-Moscow government and west-leaning population
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 10:37:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/georgia-foreign-agent-law-protests-show-disconnect-between-pro-moscow-government-and-west-leaning-population-201430>
"The Georgian government has been forced to withdraw its controversial “foreign
agent” law after days of mass protests against what many saw as
Russian-inspired legislation which would limit press freedom, making its
(More...)
The far-reaching influence of Alaska's sea otters
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 10:38:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20230228-how-alaskas-sea-otters-came-back>
"Sixty years ago, you would have been lucky to spot a sea otter in Alaska.
Like whales, bison, and beavers, they were exploited to within a hair's breadth
(More...)
The International Institute of the Bleeding Obvious has its verdict on the four day work week
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 10:40:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
What Florida Doesn’t Want You to Know About Its Book Bans
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 10:41:32 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.thedailybeast.com/what-florida-doesnt-want-you-to-know-about-its-book-bans>
"The seventh time I learned that my novel
Nineteen Minutes was being banned
in a school district, I was watching a book burning.
(More...)
How COVID lockdowns triggered changes in peregrine falcon diets – and what this means for urban pest control
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 16:14:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-covid-lockdowns-triggered-changes-in-peregrine-falcon-diets-and-what-this-means-for-urban-pest-control-201396>
"Many people saw their eating habits change during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Some
ate more frequently or experimented with healthier recipes. Others ordered more
deliveries.
(More...)
Protocol-Based Social Media Is Having A Moment As Meta, Medium, Flipboard, And Mozilla All Get On Board
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 16:15:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/10/protocol-based-social-media-is-having-a-moment-as-meta-medium-flipboard-and-mozilla-all-get-on-board/>
"Over the last couple of weeks there have been a number of interesting
developments regarding protocol-based, decentralized social media, and each
time I plot out an article about it, something else pops up to add to the
(More...)
retro.directory
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 16:17:57 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://retro.directory/
"After visiting a few retro related places I realised my only source for
finding these places were podcasts and lucky google finds, so I decided it was
time these were all brought together.
(More...)
Utility Busted Using Fake Consumer Group To Scuttle Eugene, Oregon’s Environmental Reforms
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 16:18:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2023/03/13/utility-busted-using-fake-consumer-group-to-scuttle-eugene-oregons-environmental-reforms/>
"Back in 2016, we noted how Florida utilities had resorted to creating fake
consumer groups to try and scuttle legislation aimed at ramping up solar
competition and adoption in the state. The tactic is generally used to create
(More...)
World-first flexible export limits are coming to rooftop solar. Here's how they work
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 16:20:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2023-03-14/rooftop-solar-flexible-export-limits-are-coming-to-your-suburb/102074712>
'In the country with the highest uptake of rooftop solar, and in the state with
the highest rate of solar panel ownership, lies the coastal suburb of Hallett
Cove.
(More...)
Wil Wheaton on "Influencer Parents and The Kids Who Had Their Childhood Made Into Content"
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 16:22:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.facebook.com/itswilwheaton/posts/pfbid0291FvV8Jh2pfn7Kt1fMq7mQCMHQv7BfXC7PReMkRPUYSz7DRdn9x1sksHM93zH6Mul>
'About ten years ago, I did a YouTube thing for a friend of mine. I showed up
at a space in Hollywood, and did some silly gaming stuff with them to help get
their channel off the ground. They'd done the same for me with
Tabletop, and
(More...)
AutoFlight completes one of the world’s longest eVTOL flights with its new Gen 4 aircraft
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 00:57:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://evtolinsights.com/2023/03/autoflight-claims-worlds-longest-evtol-flight-with-new-gen4-aircraft/>
"AutoFlight has achieved one of the world’s longest eVTOL flight in history
with a distance of 250 km (155 miles) on a single charge of the aircraft’s
lithium-ion batteries.
(More...)
Latvia donates drunk drivers' cars to Ukraine's war effort
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 01:00:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/latvia-donates-drunk-drivers-cars-ukraines-war-effort-2023-03-09/>
'RIGA, March 9 (Reuters) - Latvia began seizing cars from heavily drunk drivers
this year, and as hundreds of vehicles began overfilling impound lots, decided
to send them to Ukrainian military and hospitals.
(More...)
Post apocalypse: the end of daily letter deliveries is in sight
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 01:01:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/post-apocalypse-the-end-of-daily-letter-deliveries-is-in-sight-201094>
"Australia Post is seeing red. A lot of it.
After posting a razor-thin profit of $23.6 million in the last six months of
(More...)
David Attenborough says nature is in crisis but ‘we have the solutions’
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 01:02:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
If we perfect cultivated meat, we could hedge against food shortages as climate chaos intensifies
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 01:03:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Australia’s backlog of soft plastic could be processed overseas before supermarket scheme is rebooted
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:38:57 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/14/australias-backlog-of-soft-plastic-could-be-processed-overseas-before-supermarket-scheme-is-rebooted>
"Thousands of tonnes of soft plastic that was collected and dropped off by
supermarket customers, and has been stockpiled since the collapse of a domestic
recycling program, could be be shipped to the US for processing.
(More...)
Orange-bellied parrot shows there’s more to saving endangered species than captive breeding
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:39:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/orange-bellied-parrot-shows-theres-more-to-saving-endangered-species-than-captive-breeding-201226>
"Captive breeding of threatened species for release into the wild is an
important conservation tool. But where threats to wild populations remain
unresolved, this tool may not guarantee population recovery in the long term.
(More...)
Toxic ‘forever chemicals’ found in toilet paper around the world
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:40:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/mar/13/toxic-forever-chemicals-pfas-toilet-paper>
"All toilet paper from across the globe checked for toxic PFAS “forever
chemicals” contained the compounds, and the waste flushed down toilets and sent
to sewage treatment plants probably creates a significant source of water
(More...)
Why NZ should lower motorway speed limits for SUVs and other high-emission vehicles
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:41:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-nz-should-lower-motorway-speed-limits-for-suvs-and-other-high-emission-vehicles-201466>
"By the end of this month, speed limits on more than 2,000 roads across Tāmaki
Makaurau/Auckland will have been reduced by between 10 and 60 kilometres per
hour (km/h). Part of the Auckland Transport (AT) safe speeds programme, the aim
(More...)
In Defense of Studying “Basket Weaving” At College
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:42:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://clivethompson.medium.com/in-defense-of-studying-basket-weaving-at-college-a862792f3a85>
"Last week, Nathan Heller published a long reported piece in the
New Yorker
that explored the dramatic decline in students studying the humanities at
college.
(More...)
Floating solar panels could completely power thousands of cities
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 19:30:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theverge.com/2023/3/14/23639474/floating-solar-panels-power-cities-renewable-energy>
"Thousands of cities around the world could power themselves entirely with
solar panels floating atop water reservoirs, according to new research. It’s a
relatively easy way to generate renewable energy locally while also conserving
(More...)
UW study finds tie between inflammation and long COVID symptoms
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 19:34:46 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.axios.com/local/seattle/2023/03/14/uw-study-long-covid-inflamation>
'Three years after long COVID was first documented, the mysteries behind what
causes it are starting to be unraveled.
(More...)
A major South Korean broadcaster omitted 'ladies' from Michelle Yeoh's Oscars speech
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 19:36:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.npr.org/2023/03/14/1163409977/south-korea-news-channel-edits-ladies-michelle-yeoh-oscars-speech-sexism>
'SBS News, a major broadcaster in South Korea, provoked outrage after it
removed Michelle Yeoh's reference to "ladies" in its coverage of her acceptance
speech at the Oscars.
(More...)
As the states consider animal welfare law reform, what changes would curb cruelty against animals?
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 19:37:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
How Tokyo’s Farms Have Survived for Centuries
Wed, 29 Mar 2023 19:38:11 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/tokyo-urban-farms-protection-law/
"Kei Icawana bustles about her farm. Behind vegetable beds and greenhouses, car
traffic roars. A train glides along an elevated track in the direction of Hino,
a city in the west of Tokyo. Boxes of tomatoes, radishes and cabbage wait to be
(More...)
Oscars 2023: Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio offers a new vision for animated films that explore our humanity
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 04:36:49 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/oscars-2023-guillermo-del-toros-pinocchio-offers-a-new-vision-for-animated-films-that-explore-our-humanity-201702>
"In winning the 2023 Academy Award for best animated feature, director
Guillermo del Toro’s
Pinocchio continues its remarkable run of accolades,
from the Golden Globes to the Baftas.
(More...)
Floods, cyclones, thunderstorms: is climate change to blame for New Zealand’s summer of extreme weather?
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 04:37:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/floods-cyclones-thunderstorms-is-climate-change-to-blame-for-new-zealands-summer-of-extreme-weather-201161>
"The final months of New Zealand’s summer carried a massive sting, bringing
“unprecedented” rainfalls several times over, from widespread flooding in
Auckland at the end of January to ex-tropical Cyclone Gabrielle dumping record
(More...)
‘Dead’ Electric Car Batteries Find a Second Life Powering Cities
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 04:38:47 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/electric-vehicle-batteries-reused-power-stations/>
"Last month, a small warehouse in the English city of Nottingham received the
crucial final components for a project that leverages the power of used EV
batteries to create a new kind of circular economy.
(More...)
Thousands of our native plants have no public photographs available. Here’s why that matters
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 04:39:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/thousands-of-our-native-plants-have-no-public-photographs-available-heres-why-that-matters-199100>
"For hundreds of years, botanists have collected plants to describe species and
keep in herbaria across the world. But while physical plant specimens are
irreplaceable, photographs of plants are also an invaluable resource for
(More...)
Dozens of Museums and Universities Pledge to Return Native American Remains. Few Have Funded the Effort.
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:45:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.propublica.org/article/museums-universities-pledge-to-return-native-american-remains>
"Until this year, the University of Kentucky’s William S. Webb Museum of
Anthropology had never returned any of the more than 4,500 Native American
human remains in its collections.
(More...)
MNT Pocket Reform
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:47:52 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.crowdsupply.com/mnt/pocket-reform
"MNT Pocket Reform is an extremely compact, fully featured mini laptop that is
modular, upgradable, recyclable, and reusable. Being fully open source hardware
and software, it exemplifies MNT’s principles while providing abundant
(More...)
Research shows that, when given the choice, most authors don’t want excessively-long copyright terms
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:49:43 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://walledculture.org/research-shows-that-when-given-the-choice-most-authors-dont-want-excessively-long-copyright-terms/>
"Last week
Walled Culture mentioned the problem of orphan works. These are
creations, typically books, that are still covered by copyright, but
unavailable because the original publisher or distributor has gone out of
(More...)
The infrastructure behind ATMs
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:51:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/archive/the-infrastructure-behind-atms/
"ATMs are a fascinating example of a pattern we see a lot in finance: an
internal operations improvement which was built into a business which
eventually begat an infrastructure layer that may be a much bigger business.
(More...)
Josh Gluckstein
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:52:48 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.joshgluckstein.com/gallery
"My name is Josh, I am an artist living and working in London. Animals have
always been a central theme in my artwork. Inspired by my extensive travels and
volunteering through Asia, Africa and South America, I have sought to capture
(More...)
Australia hasn’t figured out low-level nuclear waste storage yet – let alone high-level waste from submarines
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 22:31:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australia-hasnt-figured-out-low-level-nuclear-waste-storage-yet-let-alone-high-level-waste-from-submarines-201781>
"Within ten years, Australia could be in possession of three American-made
Virginia-class nuclear submarines under the AUKUS agreement with the United
States and United Kingdom. The following decade, we plan to build five
(More...)
‘What kind of fruit are you?’ How to answer five of the worst job interview questions
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 22:31:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/money/shortcuts/2023/mar/15/how-to-answer-five-worst-job-interview-questions>
"How do you feel your life has worked out for you so far?
Don’t answer that. It’s not that I don’t care. But Salem Pierce, a 30-year-old
(More...)
A new hobby
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 22:36:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Cultural burning is safer for koalas and better for people too
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 22:37:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/cultural-burning-is-safer-for-koalas-and-better-for-people-too-200997>
"Koalas are an iconic endangered species living in a fire-prone environment.
This makes them an ideal subject when investigating solutions to wildfires.
(More...)
If you’re not using ChatGPT for your writing, you’re probably making a mistake
Thu, 30 Mar 2023 22:38:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/2023/3/14/23637633/chatgpt-bing-generative-ai-ethan-lilach-mollick>
"About 10 minutes into my interview with Ethan Mollick, a professor at the
University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton business school who has become a prominent
evangelist for AI tools, it became clear that he was going to use Bing to
(More...)
NZ’s evidence-based response to COVID has saved lives – we could do better when it comes to other major diseases
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 06:45:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Letters from an American: March 15, 2023
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 06:47:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/march-15-2023
"The Justice Department today announced the arrest of Chinese billionaire Guo
Wengui, also known as Ho Wan Kwok and Miles Guo, charged with defrauding
followers of more than $1 billion. The 12-count indictment for wire fraud,
(More...)
Tasmanian devil whiskers hold the key to protecting these super-scavengers
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 06:48:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/tasmanian-devil-whiskers-hold-the-key-to-protecting-these-super-scavengers-201468>
"Despite the damage humans cause to the planet, in some cases wildlife can
benefit from the presence of people. The Tasmanian devil, for example,
frequently feeds on roadkill left by humans.
(More...)
South Korea U-turns on 69-hour working week after youth backlash
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 06:49:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/mar/15/south-korea-u-turns-on-69-hour-working-week-after-youth-backlash>
"South Korea’s government has been forced to rethink a planned rise in working
hours after a backlash from younger people who said the move would destroy
their work-life balance and put their health at risk.
(More...)
Killing dingoes is the only way to protect livestock, right? Nope
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 06:52:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/killing-dingoes-is-the-only-way-to-protect-livestock-right-nope-200905>
"Since European colonisation, farmers have often viewed dingoes as the enemy,
waging war against them to protect their livestock. Farmers felt they had no
option but to eradicate dingoes using traps, shooting, poisoned baits (such as
(More...)
Oyster mushrooms expected to break down toxins and microplastics in cigarette butts in Australian trial
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 15:39:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/mar/16/oyster-mushrooms-expected-to-break-down-toxins-and-microplastics-in-cigarette-butts-in-australian-trial>
"Up to 1.2m cigarette butts could be consumed by oyster mushrooms that break
down toxins and microplastics as part of a trial funded by the Victorian
government.
(More...)
Gods in the machine? The rise of artificial intelligence may result in new religions
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 15:40:45 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/gods-in-the-machine-the-rise-of-artificial-intelligence-may-result-in-new-religions-201068>
"We are about to witness the birth of a new kind of religion. In the next few
years, or perhaps even months, we will see the emergence of sects devoted to
the worship of artificial intelligence (AI).
(More...)
Time Enough At Last
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 15:41:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://wilw.medium.com/time-enough-at-last-9c09cc478f2b
"The phrase “you have too much time on your hands” came across my event
horizon, as a response to a silly thing I did to amuse myself. I’ve heard this
for my entire life, and every few years, I write a post like this about it.
(More...)
AI isn’t close to becoming sentient – the real danger lies in how easily we’re prone to anthropomorphize it
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 15:42:22 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ai-isnt-close-to-becoming-sentient-the-real-danger-lies-in-how-easily-were-prone-to-anthropomorphize-it-200525>
"ChatGPT and similar large language models can produce compelling, humanlike
answers to an endless array of questions – from queries about the best Italian
restaurant in town to explaining competing theories about the nature of evil.
(More...)
Parental leave: offer dads proper benefits and they will take time off to care for their children
Fri, 31 Mar 2023 15:42:54 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/parental-leave-offer-dads-proper-benefits-and-they-will-take-time-off-to-care-for-their-children-201735>
"When a working woman becomes a mother, she automatically becomes part of the
“working mothers” collective. The same, however, is not true for men: the term
“working father” is not a term that is commonly used, although everyone
(More...)
Australia’s extinct giant eagle was big enough to snatch koalas from trees
Sat, 1 Apr 2023 01:35:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australias-extinct-giant-eagle-was-big-enough-to-snatch-koalas-from-trees-200341>
"The year is 1959. Speleologists descend a 17-metre shaft to explore the depths
of Mairs Cave in the southern Flinders Ranges. Some 55 metres into the main
chamber, they find fossils scattered throughout a boulder pile. Among these
(More...)
An ‘Unsexy’ System for Greening Fashion That Actually Works
Sat, 1 Apr 2023 01:36:45 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/sustainable-fashion-apparel-impact-institute/>
"For all the attention it might draw, when a brand releases a line of clothes
made of ever-more unusual, allegedly eco-friendly materials like algae sequins,
grape leather or rotten milk, chances are the real environmental benefits are
(More...)
Civil Society Organizations Urge Ghana’s Parliament to Reject Repressive Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill
Sat, 1 Apr 2023 01:38:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2023/03/civil-society-organizations-urge-ghanas-parliament-reject-repressive-anti-lgbtq>
"With Ghana's 'Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family
Values Bill, 2021' set to undergo its second reading in the Ghanaian
Parliament, EFF and other civil society partners are calling on the government
(More...)
Iraq war, 20 years on: how the world failed Iraq and created a less peaceful, democratic and prosperous state
Sat, 1 Apr 2023 01:39:11 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Brother of man executed by Saudi Arabia says F1 legitimises ‘heinous crimes’
Sat, 1 Apr 2023 01:40:36 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/mar/16/brother-of-man-executed-by-saudi-arabia-says-f1-legitimises-heinous-crimes>
"The brother of a man executed by the Saudi Arabian authorities last year has
accused Formula One of being complicit in “heinous crimes” perpetrated by the
state, which he insists is using F1 to sportswash an increasingly oppressive
(More...)
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