Glass Wings Blog: April 2025
How to Save a Democracy
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 11:59:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/united-states/how-save-democracy-trump
"The first few weeks of Donald Trump’s second presidency have accelerated a
process of democratic erosion in the United States. In just two months, the
president and his allies have issued executive orders of dubious
(More...)
Gridlock: It’s time rethink the grid, make it local, and fit for consumers
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 12:00:37 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/gridlock-its-time-rethink-the-grid-make-it-local-and-fit-for-consumers/>
"Last week, we saw a perfect illustration of the disconnect between consumers
and the electricity sector management: In response to the announcement of the
next round of electricity bill increases, consumers were told to “shop around”!
(More...)
When Google Assistant is phased out, what happens to our smart speakers?
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 12:01:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.androidpolice.com/state-of-smart-speakers-dc-google-assistant/>
"By the end of 2025, Google Assistant will no longer be available on mobile
devices. The tech giant is retiring Google Assistant whether you like it or not
and isn't stopping at phones and tablets. Cars, headphones, and smartwatches
(More...)
Why we’re no longer doing April Fools’ Day
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 12:03:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.malwarebytes.com/blog/personal/2025/03/why-were-no-longer-doing-april-fools-day>
"The internet is filled with falsehoods.
We’re forever investigating new scams here at
Malwarebytes, and so we get how
(More...)
Tiny Trackers Are Revealing the Secret Lives of Tens of Thousands of Birds
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 12:04:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/tens-of-thousands-of-tiny-tags-are-revealing-the-secret-lives-of-birds-180985022/>
"Well before ornithologist Lucas Berrigan embraced technology to find out where
birds travel around the world, he started bird-watching around his home. At
around 10 years old, anytime he heard a new call in Nova Scotia, he’d search
(More...)
The best space telescope you never heard of just shut down
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 12:04:53 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-best-space-telescope-you-never-heard-of-just-shut-down-253343>
"On Thursday 27 March, the European Space Agency (ESA) sent its last messages
to the Gaia Spacecraft. They told Gaia to shut down its communication systems
and central computer and said goodbye to this amazing space telescope.
(More...)
Hosting the UN climate summit is far from ‘madness’ – here’s how Australia stands to benefit
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 19:44:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/hosting-the-un-climate-summit-is-far-from-madness-heres-how-australia-stands-to-benefit-253423>
"Opposition Leader Peter Dutton would withdraw Australia’s bid to co-host next
year’s global climate summit if the Coalition wins the federal election.
(More...)
grentperez: the gen Z crooner who started on YouTube at 13 – and now sings to millions
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 19:47:12 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2025/mar/31/grentperez-the-gen-z-crooner-who-started-on-youtube-at-13-and-now-sings-to-millions>
"It’s 10.30am in the western Sydney suburb of St Clair, the sky low and white
and muggy. Grant Perez is posing with his car as the
Guardian’s photographer
snaps away. It’s not uncommon to see rappers and pop idols draping themselves
(More...)
Marine Le Pen’s victim narrative is already being constructed – but there are ways to stop her criminal conviction benefitting her
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 19:48:22 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/marine-le-pens-victim-narrative-is-already-being-constructed-but-there-are-ways-to-stop-her-criminal-conviction-benefitting-her-253469>
"Marine Le Pen, figurehead of France’s Rassemblement National (RN), one of the
most established far-right parties in Europe, has been found guilty of
embezzling funds from the European parliament.
(More...)
Israel killed 15 Palestinian paramedics and rescue workers one by one, says UN
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 19:50:11 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/31/israel-killed-15-palestinian-paramedics-and-rescue-workers-one-by-one-says-un>
"Fifteen Palestinian paramedics and rescue workers, including at least one
United Nations employee, were killed by Israeli forces “one by one” and buried
in a mass grave eight days ago in southern Gaza, the UN has said.
(More...)
Flawed medical studies can end up in doctors’ advice. We developed a tool to stop it
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 19:51:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/flawed-medical-studies-can-end-up-in-doctors-advice-we-developed-a-tool-to-stop-it-253213>
"Good health care depends on evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. They
translate the best available research into recommendations that shape
diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.
(More...)
Honest Government Ad | Canada Election 2025
Tue, 1 Apr 2025 19:52:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wT_n4Khmq0o
"The Government of Not-America has made an ad ahead of the coming election, and
it’s surprisingly honest and informative."
(More...)
From trading nutrients to storing carbon: 5 things you didn’t know about our underground fungi
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 03:27:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/from-trading-nutrients-to-storing-carbon-5-things-you-didnt-know-about-our-underground-fungi-252184>
"If you’re walking outdoors, chances are something remarkable is happening
under your feet. Vast fungal networks are silently working to keep ecosystems
alive.
(More...)
Zeekr announces world first 1,200 kW ultra-fast charger, trumping BYD’s megawatt milestone
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 03:28:16 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2025/04/01/zeekr-announces-world-first-1200-kw-ultra-fast-charger-trumping-byds-megawatt-milestone/>
"The battle for size and capacity is well and truly under way. Last month,
Chinese car and battery giant BYD announced a game-changer for the EV industry
with its 1,000 kW charging system that it says will add 400 km of range in just
(More...)
Water cooperation is essential when countries share lakes and rivers – yet it’s been deteriorating in many places, with serious consequences
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 03:29:41 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/water-cooperation-is-essential-when-countries-share-lakes-and-rivers-yet-its-been-deteriorating-in-many-places-with-serious-consequences-251864>
"Just over half the world’s population shares a river or lake basin with at
least one other country. To sustainably manage those water resources for the
health of people, ecosystems and economies, neighboring countries must work
(More...)
Letters from an American: March 31, 2025
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 03:31:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/march-31-2025
"On April 1, 1861, Secretary of State William Henry Seward wrote an astonishing
letter to President Abraham Lincoln. Less than a month after Lincoln had taken
office, Seward had little faith in the apparently uneducated president from the
(More...)
Trump’s America is facing an Andrew Jackson moment – and it’s bad news for the constitution
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 03:33:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/trumps-america-is-facing-an-andrew-jackson-moment-and-its-bad-news-for-the-constitution-253047>
"How do you deal with an American president who does not obey the US
constitution? The question has arisen because the recent episode where
deportation flights carrying Venezuelans were dispatched to El Salvador,
(More...)
“You’re Here Because of Your Tattoos”
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 03:37:01 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2025/03/trump-el-salvador-venezulea-deportation-prison-cecot-bukele/>
"On Friday, March 14, Arturo Suárez Trejo called his wife, Nathali Sánchez,
from an immigration detention center in Texas. Suárez, a 33-year-old native of
Caracas, Venezuela, explained that his deportation flight had been delayed. He
(More...)
AI is for the birds: How machine learning can help predict and manage avian flu outbreaks
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 12:09:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/ai-is-for-the-birds-how-machine-learning-can-help-predict-and-manage-avian-flu-outbreaks-252550>
"The active and ongoing global spread of avian influenza virus has impacted
more than 14 million birds in Canada and 160 million in the USA.
(More...)
Prado Library Digitizes and Publishes 11,500 Art Publications Online
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 12:10:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.codart.nl/publications/prado-library-digitizes-and-publishes-11500-art-publications-online/>
"The Museo del Prado has digitized its library collection and now offers free
online access to more than 11,500 publications from the late fifteenth century
to the early twentieth century.
(More...)
Climate change isn’t fair but Tony Juniper’s new book explains how a green transition could be ‘just’
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 12:12:06 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/climate-change-isnt-fair-but-tony-junipers-new-book-explains-how-a-green-transition-could-be-just-250671>
"Inequality – between the rich and poor or between the powerful and the weak –
is the main factor stalling action on environmental problems including
biodiversity loss, pollution and climate change, according to British
(More...)
4'33" by John Cage - *Big Band Jazz Arrangement* (The 8-Bit Big Band April 1st 2025)
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 12:13:00 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmCwZ7Qd0SA
"So thrilled to celebrate April 1st 2025 with all of you with a swingin' Big
Band Jazz arrangement of the legendary musical composition 4'33" by the
prolific and visionary composer John Cage.
(More...)
Bird flu could be on the cusp of transmitting between humans − but there are ways to slow down viral evolution
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 12:17:31 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/bird-flu-could-be-on-the-cusp-of-transmitting-between-humans-but-there-are-ways-to-slow-down-viral-evolution-250232>
"Disease forecasts are like weather forecasts: We cannot predict the finer
details of a particular outbreak or a particular storm, but we can often
identify when these threats are emerging and prepare accordingly.
(More...)
Why the Tesla backlash could help electric cars finally go mainstream
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 12:20:17 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2025/04/01/why-the-tesla-backlash-could-help-electric-cars-finally-go-mainstream/>
"Elon Musk’s controversial political views and actions have sparked an exodus
from X (formerly Twitter), his social media platform, and mass protests against
his car company, Tesla. Dealerships in the US and beyond have experienced
(More...)
‘Shame, disgust, horror’: Kate Grenville faces her family history of stolen land in Australia – and asks us to feel it with her
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 19:40:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Sydney gets ready for fossil gas ban, seeks views on how best to electrify homes, business
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 19:41:02 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/sydney-gets-ready-for-fossil-gas-ban-seeks-views-on-how-best-to-electrify-homes-business/>
"The City of Sydney has moved a step closer to banning gas connections in new
homes and businesses, with the launch of a discussion paper to guide the
process of changing local government planning laws to support electrification.
(More...)
Val Kilmer, Film Star Who Played Batman and Jim Morrison, Dies at 65
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 19:43:14 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/01/movies/val-kilmer-dead.html
"Val Kilmer, a homegrown Hollywood actor who tasted leading-man stardom as Jim
Morrison and Batman, but whose protean gifts and elusive personality also made
him a high-profile supporting player, died on Tuesday in Los Angeles. He was
(More...)
‘Signalgate’ was damaging to the Trump administration. It could be deadly for Yemeni civilians
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 19:43:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/signalgate-was-damaging-to-the-trump-administration-it-could-be-deadly-for-yemeni-civilians-253524>
"The “Signalgate” story has received wall-to-wall coverage since Jeffrey
Goldberg, the editor of
The Atlantic, published explosive details about a
Signal group chat where senior US officials discussed impending airstrikes
(More...)
Torrential rains created devastating inland seas in outback Queensland. Soon, they will fill Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 19:44:33 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Farmers, energy experts and locals ask: What’s in the renewable boom for us?
Wed, 2 Apr 2025 19:45:26 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/farmers-energy-experts-and-locals-ask-whats-in-the-renewable-boom-for-us/>
"Last week, farmers, energy experts and community leaders gathered in Narrabri
for the inaugural New Energy Expo, to tackle a pressing question: How can
regional Australia truly benefit from the renewable energy transition?
(More...)
Global warming of more than 3°C this century may wipe 40% off the world’s economy, new analysis reveals
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 03:22:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/global-warming-of-more-than-3-c-this-century-may-wipe-40-off-the-worlds-economy-new-analysis-reveals-253032>
"The damage climate change will inflict on the world’s economy is likely to
have been massively underestimated, according to new research by my colleagues
and I which accounts for the full global reach of extreme weather and its
(More...)
Chart of the Day: Australia is the global solar pathfinder, because it has to be
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 03:23:57 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/australia-is-the-global-solar-pathfinder-because-it-has-to-be/>
"According to the latest IRENA data, Australia is leading the way for per
capita solar generation capacity (Watts per person). Australia is in second
spot for combined per capita solar and wind generation capacity.
(More...)
Australians want nature protected. These 3 environmental problems should be top of the next government’s to-do list
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 03:24:44 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/australians-want-nature-protected-these-3-environmental-problems-should-be-top-of-the-next-governments-to-do-list-253336>
"Australia is a place of great natural beauty, home to many species found
nowhere else on Earth. But it’s also particularly vulnerable to introduced
animals, diseases and weeds. Habitat destruction, pollution and climate change
(More...)
EU has a ‘strong plan’ to retaliate on Trump tariffs, says von der Leyen
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 03:25:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/apr/01/eu-has-a-strong-plan-to-retaliate-on-trump-tariffs-says-von-der-leyen>
"The European Union has a “strong plan” to retaliate against tariffs imposed by
Donald Trump but would prefer to negotiate, the head of the European
Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has said.
(More...)
A Guyanese conservation board game goes digital
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 11:47:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.peacecorps.gov/connect/blog/a-guyanese-conservation-board-game-goes-digital/>
"With each roll of the dice, one of four competing players must follow the
instructions on the board or pick a card to face a new obstacle, such as
harmful chemicals or a polluted river. The first player to safely return to
(More...)
Proposed UN rapporteur to support democracy, fill gaps: event in Geneva
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 11:48:22 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.democracywithoutborders.org/36332/proposed-un-rapporteur-to-support-democracy-fill-gaps-event-in-geneva/>
"On March 25, 2025, a side event titled “Democracy and Human Rights” was
convened in the margins of the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights
Council in Geneva, Switzerland. Hosted by CIVICUS and Democracy Without Borders
(More...)
The environmental burden of the United States’ bitcoin mining boom
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 11:50:08 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-58287-3
"Bitcoin mines—massive computing clusters generating cryptocurrency
tokens—consume vast amounts of electricity. The amount of fine particle (PM2.5)
air pollution created because of their electricity consumption and its effect
(More...)
The Hidden War on Your Mind – How Coordinated Disinformation is Poisoning the Information Space
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 11:51:42 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://nafoforum.org/magazine/the-hidden-war-on-your-mind-how-coordinated-disinformation-is-poisoning-the-information-space>
"In an age where information spreads faster than ever, a war is being waged not
with bombs and bullets, but with tweets, deepfakes, and AI-generated
narratives.
(More...)
Living in ‘garbage time’: when 500 million Chinese change their spending habits, the world feels it
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 19:19:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/living-in-garbage-time-when-500-million-chinese-change-their-spending-habits-the-world-feels-it-253341>
"China’s economic rocket ride appears to be ending – or slowing, at least.
Growth has declined from 8.4% in 2021 to 4.5% today, youth unemployment has
climbed to 16.9%, and cities are filled with unfinished buildings after the
(More...)
Queensland’s recovery to ‘take months and years’ after floods sweep across vast interior
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 19:20:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/apr/02/queenslands-floods-flooding-recovery-months-years-outback-interior>
"Queensland’s premier has declared “day one” of a recovery that will take years
as the state prepares to wake to clear skies that should reveal the vast scale
of its outback floods.
(More...)
A new COVID variant is on the rise. Here’s what to know about LP.8.1
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 19:21:10 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/a-new-covid-variant-is-on-the-rise-heres-what-to-know-about-lp-8-1-253237>
"More than five years since COVID was declared a pandemic, we’re still facing
the regular emergence of new variants of the virus, SARS-CoV-2.
(More...)
Violet Blue’s Threat Model - The View From Here: 2025-04-03
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 19:24:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.patreon.com/posts/view-from-here-125797319
"Since I am outside the US and see more international news, I thought US-based
readers might want to see what I’m seeing."
(More...)
New NZ TV series Happiness gives us an engaging musical peak behind the amateur theatre curtain
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 19:26:38 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/new-nz-tv-series-happiness-gives-us-an-engaging-musical-peak-behind-the-amateur-theatre-curtain-253025>
"The last few decades have seen many attempts to make musical TV shows.
Some of them applied the aesthetics of musicals (where people spontaneously
(More...)
Helsinki shutters last coal plant, as it turns to heat batteries and pumps
Thu, 3 Apr 2025 19:27:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/helsinki-shutters-its-last-coal-plant-as-turns-to-heat-batteries-and-pumps/>
"Finnish energy company Helen Oy has shuttered its last coal-fired power plant,
a milestone which ends coal use in the capital Helsinki and puts Finland on the
brink of eliminating coal entirely from its energy mix.
(More...)
New research lays bare the harsh realities facing artists and arts workers
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 04:12:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/new-research-lays-bare-the-harsh-realities-facing-artists-and-arts-workers-253547>
"Australia’s visual arts and craft workers are facing increasingly
deteriorating conditions, according to research published today.
(More...)
Fix the News 291: Merlin's Manuscript
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 04:13:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://fixthenews.com/291-merlins-manuscript/
"Plus, Thailand bans smacking kids, solar canals, India's super highways, and
good news on dementia in the United States, wildlife crossings in Colorado, and
Finland going coal-free ahead of schedule."
(More...)
Jane Rawson moved to ‘unspoiled’ Tasmania to outrun climate change, but the fearful questions followed
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 04:15:18 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Rewilding Death in the Appalachian Mountains
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 04:16:30 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/conservation-burials-rewilding-death/
"In the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, a quiet revolution in
end-of-life practices is underway. At Ramsey Creek Preserve near Westminster,
South Carolina, the deceased do not rest under rows of cold marble, but beneath
(More...)
Astronomers listened to the ‘music’ of flickering stars – and discovered an unexpected feature
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 04:17:28 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/astronomers-listened-to-the-music-of-flickering-stars-and-discovered-an-unexpected-feature-253546>
"The “music” of starquakes – enormous vibrations caused by bursting bubbles of
gas that ripple throughout the bodies of many stars – can reveal far more
information about the stars’ histories and inner workings than scientists
(More...)
For Modern Foragers, This Map Reveals Urban Abundance
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 04:18:55 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/falling-fruit-urban-foraging/
"In a quiet corner of New York City, wild mint pushes up between the cracks of
a rooftop, its scent carried on the wind. It’s an unlikely place for an edible
plant to thrive, but for those who know where to look, the city is full of such
(More...)
Invisible losses: thousands of plant species are missing from places they could thrive – and humans are the reason
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 11:39:35 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/invisible-losses-thousands-of-plant-species-are-missing-from-places-they-could-thrive-and-humans-are-the-reason-252378>
"If you go walking in the wild, you might expect that what you’re seeing is
natural. All around you are trees, shrubs and grasses growing in their natural
habitat.
(More...)
‘Snow Farming’ Is Making Spring Skiing More Sustainable
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 11:40:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/snow-farming-ski-areas/
"At its zenith, Monarch Mountain in south-central Colorado is over 11,000 feet
tall. Skiing here is being on top of the world. Each winter, snow generously
blankets the slopes, providing the fresh powder for which Colorado is known.
(More...)
This New Emoji May Best Summarize 2025 So Far
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 11:41:39 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://mossandfog.com/this-new-emoji-may-best-summarize-2025-so-far/
"It’s called “Face with bags under eyes”, and it might be the most apt new
official emoji of the year.
(More...)
New research reveals chemical secrets of Earth’s crust 4.5 billion years ago
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 11:42:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/new-research-reveals-chemical-secrets-of-earths-crust-4-5-billion-years-ago-253543>
"Earth is the only known planet which has plate tectonics today. The constant
movement of these giant slabs of rock over the planet’s magma creates
continents – and may have even helped create life.
(More...)
Tiny town swamped as flood waters the size of NSW inundate western Queensland
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 11:43:20 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/03/thargomindah-inundated-as-floodwaters-swamp-western-queensland>
"At first, the levee bank held firm as the flood waters came.
Locals had tirelessly constructed the dirt wall, building on areas where the
(More...)
The Town That Went Crazy for Crypto
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 19:21:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/28/business/rainbowex-crypto-ponzi-scheme.html>
"At a backyard barbecue in San Pedro, Argentina, last May, Rafael Flaiman
spotted a friend wearing a light blue blazer that looked a little too snazzy
for the occasion. He needled the guy a bit. What’s with the jacket? Mr. Flaiman
(More...)
Scientists worked with Warlpiri to track down bilby poo – and uncover clues to help conserve these iconic animals
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 19:22:58 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/scientists-worked-with-warlpiri-to-track-down-bilby-poo-and-uncover-clues-to-help-conserve-these-iconic-animals-245153>
"The greater bilby (
Macrotis lagotis) is one of Australia’s most iconic yet
at-risk animals — and the last surviving bilby species. Once found across 70%
of Australia, its range has contracted by more than 80% since European
(More...)
Good news, beach lovers: our research found 39% less plastic waste around Australian coastal cities than a decade ago
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 19:24:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/good-news-beach-lovers-our-research-found-39-less-plastic-waste-around-australian-coastal-cities-than-a-decade-ago-253221>
"Picture this: you’re lounging on a beautiful beach, soaking up the sun and
listening to the soothing sound of the waves. You run your hands through the
warm sand, only to find a cigarette butt. Gross, right?
(More...)
Interact with Minors: Against the collective neglect of the young.
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 19:26:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium.cfd/https://devonprice.medium.com/interact-with-minors-dd2bf03c972a>
'When I was in fourth grade, I made an America Online account. The handle I
chose for myself was Batlover4, because I wanted to be a bat biologist when I
grew up, and I was in the fourth grade.
(More...)
Letters from an American: April 3, 2025
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 19:27:40 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/april-3-2025
"Trump’s announcement last night that he was placing high tariffs on countries
around the world came after the stock market closed, but it drove stock futures
dramatically downward. Overseas, global markets also plunged. Today, before the
(More...)
1 trillion species, 3 billion years: how we used AI to trace the evolution of bacteria on Earth
Fri, 4 Apr 2025 19:28:34 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Friday essay: why it’s time to ditch the myth of the heroic billionaire
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 03:36:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-why-its-time-to-ditch-the-myth-of-the-heroic-billionaire-252641>
"In February, the world’s richest man, Elon Musk, wielded a chainsaw at a
conservative gathering as he gleefully spoke of his new role as head of the
Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), where he’ll soon reach his legal
(More...)
Climate crisis on track to destroy capitalism, warns top insurer
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 03:38:56 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/03/climate-crisis-on-track-to-destroy-capitalism-warns-allianz-insurer>
"The climate crisis is on track to destroy capitalism, a top insurer has
warned, with the vast cost of extreme weather impacts leaving the financial
sector unable to operate.
(More...)
Flies are masters of migration – it’s about time they got some credit
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 03:39:59 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/flies-are-masters-of-migration-its-about-time-they-got-some-credit-253254>
"As I sprinted across the flower-rich meadow on the eastern coast of Cyprus, I
could barely see my car. The air was full of tiny black dots, pelting like
bullets past me. I hauled open the car door and breathed a sigh of relief once
(More...)
‘This has been a long road’: relief and excitement as NSW ban on gay conversion practices comes into effect
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 03:41:03 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/law/2025/apr/04/this-has-been-a-long-road-relief-and-excitement-as-nsw-ban-on-gay-conversion-practices-comes-into-effect-ntwnfb>
"Chris Csabs started going through so-called “conversion practices” at 16 years
old. “I was extremely distressed about being gay and I went … to ask for help,”
he said. He was then moved interstate to participate in a conversion course,
(More...)
Russia and China both want influence over Central Asia. Could it rupture their friendship?
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 03:41:50 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/russia-and-china-both-want-influence-over-central-asia-could-it-rupture-their-friendship-251023>
"As he looks to solidify his territorial gains in Ukraine in a potential
ceasefire deal, Russian President Vladimir Putin has one eye trained on
Russia’s southern border – and boosting Russian influence in Central Asia.
(More...)
Macron suggests pause on US investment as EU leaders condemn Trump tariffs
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 03:43:05 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/03/fundamentally-wrong-european-leaders-condemn-trump-tariffs>
"European leaders have condemned Donald Trump’s tariffs as “fundamentally
wrong” and creating an “immense difficulty for Europe”, while appealing for
last-ditch negotiations to avert an all-out trade war.
(More...)
20 Deaths A Day: Australia’s Ongoing Covid Toll
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 10:06:23 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/03/20-deaths-a-day-australias-ongoing-covid-toll/>
"MELBOURNE, March 27 – Twenty Australians are dying every day because of
Covid-19 — five years after the pandemic that changed the world was declared
and three years after the country largely ended restrictions.
(More...)
Economists want focus on battery trucks, say hydrogen freight “makes little sense”
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 10:07:19 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2025/04/04/economists-call-for-focus-on-battery-trucks-say-hydrogen-freight-makes-little-sense/>
"Economists from France and Germany have called on their respective governments
to accelerate the decarbonisation of freight transport by prioritising battery
electric trucks over hydrogen-fuelled alternatives.
(More...)
Tabletop industry in full panic as Trump tariffs are poised to erase decades of growth
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 10:09:29 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.polygon.com/tabletop-games/552558/tabletop-panic-tariffs-on-china-layoffs-bankruptcy-gama>
"The games you play are likely to become much more expensive. Nearly 20
organizations that
Polygon spoke with said that profits will be severely
impacted. Many said jobs will be lost, companies shuttered, and games that have
(More...)
“Slow death:” World adds smallest amount of new coal power capacity in two decades
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 10:10:15 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/slow-death-world-adds-smallest-amount-of-new-coal-power-capacity-in-two-decades/>
"Coal’s “very slow death” has begun with the world adding the smallest amount
of new coal-fired power capacity in two decades, a new report has found.
(More...)
Iceland Embraced a 4-Day Workweek in 2019 – Now, Nearly Six Years On, All Gen Z Forecasts Have Materialized
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 10:11:21 +1100
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.wecb.fm/iceland-embraced-a-4-day-workweek-in-2019-now-nearly-six-years-on-all-gen-z-forecasts-have-materialized/>
"Iceland’s experiment began in 2015 with a pilot program involving about 2,500
workers, roughly 1% of the country’s workforce. This small-scale trial exceeded
expectations, with 86% of participants voicing their support. Thanks to its
(More...)
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