Glass Wings Blog: August 2026
Half of England in drought: The crisis in pictures
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 11:29:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.itv.com/news/2026-07-29/half-of-england-in-drought-the-crisis-in-pictures>
"Record low rainfall and soaring temperatures have left seven areas of central,
eastern and southern England officially in drought.
(More...)
Featuring Trump on US coins and bills would put America in rare company
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 11:30:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/featuring-trump-on-us-coins-and-bills-would-put-america-in-rare-company-285125>
"A slang term for cash money is “dead presidents.” But now the very much alive
President Donald Trump could appear on U.S. coins and banknotes, too.
(More...)
Solar’s end-of-life problem is not about panel age, it’s about shifting economics and untested plans
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 11:31:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Open weights vs. closed: An AI civil war's afoot, and the stakes are existential
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 11:32:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.zdnet.com/article/open-weight-ai-civil-war/
“The open-weight Moonshot AI's Kimi K3 is faster than Anthropic Fable 5 in some
ways, and is nearly as fast as Fable 5 and OpenAI's GPT-5.6 in others. That's
fast. And that has some American AI companies and the Trump administration
(More...)
As the games begin, what does the Commonwealth mean and what purpose does it serve?
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 11:33:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
The Tide Turns for Sharks
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 11:34:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://theprogressnetwork.substack.com/p/the-tide-turns-for-sharks
"A century ago, fish scientists would have been surprised to hear that millions
of people tune in every year for a week of adrenaline-packed entertainment
about sharks. The prevailing attitude at that time, even among experts, was
(More...)
French firefighters face 'pyrocumulonimbus' for first time
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 18:12:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260726-french-firefighters-face-pyrocumulonimbus-for-first-time>
“Paris (France) (
AFP) – The gigantic wildfire ravaging southwest France has
created an extremely dangerous "pyrocumulonimbus" — a phenomenon never before
seen in the country — the spokesman for the country's National Firefighters
(More...)
BBC Sound Effects
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 18:14:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://sound-effects.bbcrewind.co.uk/
"The BBC Sound Effects Archive is available for personal, educational or
research purposes. There are over 33,000 clips from across the world from the
past 100 years. These include clips made by the BBC Radiophonic workshop,
(More...)
Corrientes celebrates 19 years of the giant anteater reintroduction project in the Iberá Wetlands
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 18:17:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://noticiasambientales.com/animals/corrientes-celebrates-19-years-of-the-giant-anteater-reintroduction-project-in-the-ibera-wetlands/>
"La Fundación Rewilding Argentina commemorated the 19th anniversary of the
giant anteater reintroduction program in the Iberá Wetlands. The species,
locally known as yurumí, had disappeared from Corrientes in the mid-20th
(More...)
What Parents Need to Know About Long COVID in Kids
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 18:18:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.lung.org/blog/child-long-covid
"Anyone who has dealt with fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath or the array
of other symptoms that persist months after recovering from SARS-CoV-2
infection, understand the frustrations of experiencing Long COVID. Though
(More...)
Desalination & Selective Metal Recovery
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 18:20:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.sflorg.com/2026/07/eng07302601.html
"
Scientific Frontline: Extended "At a Glance" Summary: Electrochemical Ion
Pumping
(More...)
A Response to “Sometimes It’s O.K. to Let a Language Die”
Sat, 1 Aug 2026 18:22:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://endangeredlanguages.com/story/response-sometimes-its-ok-let-language-die>
"The
New Yorker has chosen to publish a review of
How to Kill a Language,
“Sometimes It’s O.K. to Let a Language Die,” which shows a profound
misunderstanding of language revitalization, while also perpetuating the very
(More...)
This 4,000-year-old city defied the rules of history
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 03:50:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260729010730.htm
“New research suggests that Mohenjo-daro followed a very different path from
many other early cities. As the 4,000-year-old urban center became larger, more
productive, and more successful, its society appears to have grown more equal
(More...)
Europe burns: a visual guide to the wildfires
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 03:51:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/30/europe-burns-france-spain-visual-guide-wildfires>
"The hellish infernos that have torn through parts of France and Spain have
caused deaths, the evacuation of 330,000 people from their homes, widespread
destruction and clouds of toxic smoke. Records have already been smashed and
(More...)
That Sign in Front of the Smithsonian is More Dangerous Than You Think
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 03:54:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://hartmannreport.com/p/that-sign-in-front-of-the-smithsonian-0ee
"“Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls
the past.”
— George Orwell, 1984
(More...)
AI assistant named for long-dead pharmacy founder mutters incomprehensibly and "demands that you talk to him"
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 03:56:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://boingboing.net/2026/07/30/ai-assistant-named-for-long-dead-pharmacy-founder-mutters-incomprehensibly-and-demands-that-you-talk-to-him.html>
“A Vermont pharmacy chain's new AI assistant led not to the efficiency
improvements promised but to "delays, incorrect information and privacy
concerns." The AI, named "Burt" after the chain's long-dead founder, is said to
(More...)
Innocent Man Spends Over A Year Behind Bars After Critical Skyrim Mix-Up
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 03:57:51 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.thegamer.com/skyrim-typo-innocent-man-18-months-prison/
"An innocent man has served the full 18 months of his prison sentence after
police made a typo during their child-luring investigation. While looking for a
man going by the alias ‘fus__ro_dah’ on the messaging service Kik (a reference
(More...)
80‑million‑year‑old snake fossil sheds light on why lizards lost their limbs and started slithering
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 03:58:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/80-million-year-old-snake-fossil-sheds-light-on-why-lizards-lost-their-limbs-and-started-slithering-287291>
"Snakes are everywhere in our legends and mythology. Yet for most of us, our
blood runs cold whenever we encounter these strangely undulating, scaly tubes
of muscle slithering through the leaf litter.
(More...)
Fix The News 348: Wildfire. AIDS. Recess. Yellowstone to Yukon.
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 11:12:47 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://fixthenews.com/p/348-wildfire-aids-recess-yellowstone
"I want to share a talk from the session I helped curate at TED this year. In
my introduction I put a question to the room: what does it actually take to
change the world? One person with an unbendable will, or the slow, grinding
(More...)
As missiles fly, Iranians are turning to art, culture and memes to find community
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 11:13:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/as-missiles-fly-iranians-are-turning-to-art-culture-and-memes-to-find-community-284312>
"Coverage of the conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States has
largely focused on battlefield developments, political statements and
international diplomacy.
(More...)
Data centre chaos: We need to learn the lessons from past gold rushes
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 11:14:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
‘A river is our life force’: why Indigenous cultural values must be visible in conservation
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 11:15:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Upgraded EV bus depot is city’s largest, with 56 chargers and 112 plugs
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 11:16:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/07/20/upgraded-ev-bus-depot-is-citys-largest-with-56-chargers-and-112-plugs/>
"Upgrades to the Karrinyup bus depot in Perth’s northern suburbs have recently
been completed, with the addition of 56 dual electric bus chargers making it
the largest EV bus depot in the city.
(More...)
The US is issuing billions in tariff refunds. That won’t unwind the damage to the global trading system
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 11:16:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-us-is-issuing-billions-in-tariff-refunds-that-wont-unwind-the-damage-to-the-global-trading-system-287957>
"An Australian clothing company, Nashie, recently received a six-figure refund
from the US government, including 6% interest, for tariffs it had paid on US
imports. It’s just one of thousands of businesses reclaiming tariffs imposed on
(More...)
Australia Post to expand country’s largest electric delivery fleet with help of government grant
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 18:31:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/07/21/australia-post-to-expand-countrys-largest-electric-delivery-fleet-with-help-of-government-grant/>
"Australia Post, already the owners of the country’s largest electric delivery
fleet, has announced it will accelerate the electrification of its fleet thanks
to a $40.5 million investment from the federal government.
(More...)
Mauritania: A rare glimpse at one of the world's least-visited nations
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 18:33:27 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20260710-mauritania-a-rare-glimpse-at-one-of-the-worlds-least-visited-nations>
"In an age when it's increasingly easy to explore the furthest reaches of the
world – from the tallest mountains to the most remote islands – there are still
entire countries that few travellers ever see. One such place is Mauritania.
(More...)
Battery boast: Australia dodges global gas price shock with help of storage and renewables
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 18:38:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/battery-boast-australia-dodges-global-gas-price-shock-with-help-of-storage-and-renewables/>
"The Australian electricity market’s success in dodging the latest round of
global price shocks, using a buffer of firmed renewables now averaging around
50 per cent of total supply, has been highlighted in the latest report from the
(More...)
‘White Australia’ has always been a myth. Hanson lamenting its end is wrong – and dangerous
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 18:39:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/white-australia-has-always-been-a-myth-hanson-lamenting-its-end-is-wrong-and-dangerous-288182>
"The unexpected rise of One Nation in the polls, helped by leader Pauline
Hanson’s relationship with mining magnate Gina Rinehart and often uncritical
treatment by mainstream media, has seen the reemergence of another historical
(More...)
“First of a kind” factory to mass produce wooden wind turbine blades wins critical EU backing
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 18:41:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/first-of-a-kind-factory-to-mass-produce-wooden-wind-turbine-blades-wins-critical-eu-backing/>
"The world’s first commercial factory to manufacture wooden wind turbine blades
has taken an important step forward this week, after German pioneer Voodin
Blade Technology confirmed it had been awarded €48 million from the European
(More...)
‘We can’t make it better again’: what Europe’s wildfires tell us about the climate crisis
Sun, 2 Aug 2026 18:56:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jul/30/europe-wildfires-climate-crisis-heat-summer>
"When Stefan Rahmstorf walked through the ruined streets of Dresden after the
river Elbe flooded in 2002, and again when severe heat killed 70,000 people in
Europe the following summer, the German climatologist wondered if worsening
(More...)
Nobody Taught Them to Adult — So They’re Teaching Each Other
Mon, 3 Aug 2026 02:43:03 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/india-care-leavers-support/
"Across the world, 18th birthdays are a time for celebration. But in India, an
estimated 30,000 teens reach this threshold in childcare institutions (places
that offer shelter and protection to vulnerable youth) every year, and age out
(More...)
China has cracked down on AI companions. What can we learn from this?
Mon, 3 Aug 2026 02:44:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/china-has-cracked-down-on-ai-companions-what-can-we-learn-from-this-287976>
"Since November 2022, generative artificial intelligence (AI) has been
rewriting billions of emails, student assignments, reports, and break-up text
messages. Alongside these mundane uses, we’ve seen a proliferation of chatbots
(More...)
Letters from an American: July 31, 2026
Mon, 3 Aug 2026 02:45:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/p/july-31-2026
"Courtney Kube, Monica Alba, Peter Nicholas, Gordon Lubold, Katherine Doyle,
and Andrea Mitchell of
NBC News reported Wednesday that President Donald J.
Trump is “exasperated” that the Iran war is dragging on and that his advisors
(More...)
How retirees, beachcombers and communities help scientists track everything from threatened species to algal blooms
Mon, 3 Aug 2026 02:46:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/how-retirees-beachcombers-and-communities-help-scientists-track-everything-from-threatened-species-to-algal-blooms-268199>
"How healthy are Australia’s ecosystems? To answer that, scientists need data.
But Australia is huge – and the number of professional scientists is limited.
That’s where citizen science can help.
(More...)
A mining campaign in a farmer’s hat: “Hands off our diesel” meme is not about tractors
Mon, 3 Aug 2026 02:47:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/07/24/a-mining-campaign-dressed-in-an-akubra-the-hands-off-our-fuel-petition-is-not-about-farmers/>
"A tractor in a paddock isn’t using a public road.
Neither is a 400-tonne mining haul truck at the bottom of an open-cut pit.
(More...)
At a time of harder borders and ‘ruthless’ rhetoric, the Refugee Convention is more important than ever
Mon, 3 Aug 2026 02:49:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/at-a-time-of-harder-borders-and-ruthless-rhetoric-the-refugee-convention-is-more-important-than-ever-287478>
"This month marks 75 years since the adoption of the
1951 Refugee Convention
on July 28 1951. Negotiated in the aftermath of the second world war, the
treaty came into force three years later after Australia became the sixth
(More...)
“They do exist:” Fortescue tests its 150 tonne battery-powered water truck, and i new electric dozers, grades and loaders
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 04:20:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/07/24/fortescue-tests-its-150-tonne-battery-powered-water-truck-and-its-new-electric-dozers-and-wheel-loaders/>
"Mining giant Fortescue has been trialling the first prototypes of the massive
electric equipment that will replace its existing diesel machines as it seeks
to phase out the burning of fossil fuels at its Pilbara mines by the end of the
(More...)
We can't have metaphors anymore because everything is literal
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 04:22:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://news.chanda.science/archive/we-cant-have-metaphors-anymore-because-everything/>
"A few nights ago, I made the mistake of putting on the Sidney Lumet’s 1964
film
Fail-Safe as my “last show of the evening.” I only intended to watch a
few minutes. If you know anything about this movie, then you know why that was
(More...)
AI: Considerations for people who make decisions
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 04:29:57 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://berthub.eu/articles/posts/ai-for-decision-makers/
"Recently I gave two presentations in quick succession to the Dutch Network of
Government Service Providers and the Dutch Advisory Council for Science,
Technology and Innovation about AI. In these two different and brief
(More...)
Moral distress: for primary care doctors, ‘doing the right thing’ can feel impossible
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 05:55:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/moral-distress-for-primary-care-doctors-doing-the-right-thing-can-feel-impossible-287962>
"Modern healthcare systems ask much of primary care doctors. They are expected
to diagnose, reassure, coordinate care, manage chronic illness and increasingly
fill the gaps when other parts of the system come under strain.
(More...)
Did a tourist tax save Magaluf?
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 05:56:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.positive.news/society/did-a-tourist-tax-save-magaluf/
"It is a bright early summer evening in Mallorca and Jaime Mora Bosch is
reclining in a waterfront restaurant in a cream suit. Behind him, Port Adriano
is filled with multimillion-euro yachts as their passengers settle into
(More...)
Why clearer rules on using AI in hiring would be a win for bosses too
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 05:57:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-clearer-rules-on-using-ai-in-hiring-would-be-a-win-for-bosses-too-288086>
"This week, the Victorian government announced it will act to protect workers
from “inappropriate and unfair uses” of artificial intelligence (AI) in the
workplace. This will include introducing new laws to ensure AI hiring decisions
(More...)
Leopards recover in Zambia as communities swap skins for synthetics
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 13:00:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/environment/leopards-recover-in-zambia-as-communities-swap-skins-for-synthetics/>
"Big cat conservationists in Zambia say leopard numbers are rebounding thanks
in part to local communities swapping real furs for synthetic in traditional
ceremonies.
(More...)
Make an Origami Circuit Board
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 13:02:09 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://spectrum.ieee.org/origami-circuit-boards
"What could you do if you could make a circuit trace by just bending a piece of
paper? How about bridging modern technologies and traditional handicrafts while
providing opportunities for learning skills in both.
(More...)
What it's like to live in the world's most liveable cities in 2026
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 13:04:00 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20260706-the-worlds-most-liveable-cities-in-2026>
"Copenhagen has retained its title as the world's most liveable city for a
second consecutive year in the Economist Intelligence Unit's
2026 Global
Liveability Index.
(More...)
‘Worst we’ve known’: UK turns to imports as drought and heat hit vegetable crops
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 13:05:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/aug/01/uk-importing-vegetabless-drough-heat-hit-british-crops-price-rises>
"Pubs, restaurants and supermarkets are having to buy lettuce and broccoli from
Spain at what should be the height of UK growing season, as drought and extreme
heat hit crops.
(More...)
How Australia combines modern tech and Indigenous knowledge to fight wildfires
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 13:06:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czdmvr984yyo
"The wildfires currently ravaging Europe feel close to home for Professor Marta
Yebra, despite being on the other side of the world.
(More...)
A new measure of courage: how Maasai warriors became lion guardians
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 13:07:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/environment/a-new-measure-of-courage-how-maasai-warriors-became-lion-guardians/>
"The cattle are still stirring inside the safety of their enclosures when
Saitoti Petro Lorkuta makes his morning rounds, threading his motorbike through
the communal Maasai pastures east of Tanzania’s Tarangire national park. Every
(More...)
Can we alter ocean chemistry to absorb carbon? Here are the pros and cons
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 20:15:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/can-we-alter-ocean-chemistry-to-absorb-carbon-here-are-the-pros-and-cons-287592>
"As the planet warms, countries around the world are racing to meet their net
zero targets set out in the
2015 Paris Agreement.
(More...)
Don't worry about privacy. Just make more content. It's fine.
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 20:16:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.garbageday.email/p/don-t-worry-about-privacy-just-make-more-content-it-s-fine>
"Back in May, I wrote that Meta Ray-Bans are “a Cybertruck for your face” and
“great for weird fucking losers that want to look down your shirt and plaster
it all over Instagram.” Well, a little update lol: Instagram is finally
(More...)
Friday essay: can rewilding offer us a brighter, greener future?
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 20:17:52 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/friday-essay-can-rewilding-offer-us-a-brighter-greener-future-281647>
"I’ve been fortunate to dive in Tasmania’s giant kelp forests over the past
three decades, launching into chilly waters. When diving in these forests,
light filters through the golden ribbon-like fronds in beams, lighting the
(More...)
Violet Blue’s Threat Model - Pandemic Roundup: July 30, 2026
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 20:18:46 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.patreon.com/violetblue/posts/pandemic-roundup-165235631
"The fastest Ebola outbreak on record is up to 3,360 confirmed cases and 1,487
deaths, according to government data published late Tuesday. The 2018-2020
Congo/Uganda outbreak had over 3,400 cases and 2,200 deaths across a span of
(More...)
Why you should think twice before rescuing a wild animal
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 20:19:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-you-should-think-twice-before-rescuing-a-wild-animal-286655>
"Imagine you’re driving down a windy road when you spot an injured possum.
Your instincts might tell you to hit the brakes, check what’s wrong and bundle
(More...)
Retail giant begins EV charger rollout at up to 30 store locations across Australia
Tue, 4 Aug 2026 20:20:17 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://thedriven.io/2026/07/27/retail-giant-begins-ev-charger-rollout-at-up-to-30-store-locations-across-australia/>
"Supermarket giant Coles will roll out electric vehicle charging stations at up
to 30 locations across Australia as part of a two-year initiative designed in
partnership with Evie Networks, Australia’s largest fast-charging network.
(More...)
Does using a reusable cup make you less likely to protest climate change? We tracked 2,800 Australians to find out
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 03:47:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/does-using-a-reusable-cup-make-you-less-likely-to-protest-climate-change-we-tracked-2-800-australians-to-find-out-288197>
"Reusable cups, recycling, taking public transport, eating “greener”, cycling
to work – we are all familiar with the kinds of actions we can take to reduce
our personal environmental impact.
(More...)
Mega datacentre planned for outer Melbourne will be six times bigger than a large shopping centre
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 03:48:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
New research shows how vulnerable Australia would be to attacks on shipping in the Indian Ocean
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 03:49:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/new-research-shows-how-vulnerable-australia-would-be-to-attacks-on-shipping-in-the-indian-ocean-287495>
"The closure of the Strait of Hormuz in the US-Iran war has brought home how
vital maritime trading routes are to a country like Australia, which conducts
99% of its global trade by sea.
(More...)
Bill Oddie, naturalist and broadcaster, dies aged 85
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 03:50:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/jul/27/bill-oddie-naturalist-and-broadcaster-dies>
"The writer, comedian and conservationist Bill Oddie has died aged 85. Having
come to prominence with the comedy group The Goodies, Oddie later established
himself as an authority on wildlife, presenting television series including the
(More...)
Letting a River Act Like a River
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 03:51:56 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/letting-a-river-act-like-a-river/
"For river ecosystems to survive dry times, they need their floods — and big,
messy floodplains.
(More...)
Sci-fi authors Scalzi and Stross decry AI's dystopian impact on their craft
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 03:53:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
From Book Doof to bedazzling, social reading is all the rage
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 22:54:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-07-18/from-book-doof-to-bedazzling-social-reading-is-all-the-rage/106929956>
“Grant Krupp was at a party when he picked up a book that was lying around with
a "not safe for work" (NSFW) title.
(More...)
The dangerous climate driving California’s wildfires — and a warning for Australia
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 22:55:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/the-dangerous-climate-driving-californias-wildfires-and-a-warning-for-australia-288190>
"California is once again confronting a rapidly escalating wildfire season
fuelled by extreme heat, drying vegetation, drought and strong winds.
(More...)
With contentious fisheries reforms on hold, should NZ rethink bottom trawling?
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 22:56:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/with-contentious-fisheries-reforms-on-hold-should-nz-rethink-bottom-trawling-288087>
"The government’s controversial
Fisheries Amendment Bill has reignited debate
over New Zealand’s most common – and most controversial – commercial fishing
method.
(More...)
Australia’s ‘most progressive’ census comes at personal cost to April – but it means their family will finally be counted
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 22:57:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/27/australias-most-progressive-census-comes-at-personal-cost-to-april-but-it-means-their-family-will-finally-be-counted-ntwnfb>
"Self-professed “data nerd” April Long was excited to fill in their first
census after welcoming their son, Kai, to the world. But as they opened the
2021 survey, they quickly realised it wasn’t made for them.
(More...)
At creative reuse centers, old art supplies get a new life at a fraction of the cost
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 22:58:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://apnews.com/article/creative-reuse-center-secondhand-art-supplies-3888b74ae179b22af1349a0bc6052afb>
"NEW YORK (
AP) — Charlene Catalano was looking for a ball of green-and-white
yarn to crochet this year’s winter scarf.
(More...)
From living roofs to rainwater harvesting: the future of sustainable homes
Wed, 5 Aug 2026 23:03:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2026/aug/03/future-sustainable-homes>
"A new book,
Homes for Our Time, by Philip Jodidio, showcases the quiet
revolution in green residential architecture.
(More...)
The battle for the Maasai Mara: Can Kenya’s most iconic ecosystem be saved?
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 03:09:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2026/8/3/the-battle-for-the-maasai-mara-can-kenyas-most-iconic-ecosystem-be-saved>
"Maasai Mara, Kenya – The Maasai Mara, Kenya’s most famous wildlife reserve, is
one of Africa’s best-known safari destinations. Every year, hundreds of
thousands of visitors travel to the reserve, generating millions of dollars for
(More...)
At a hydroelectric dam in Maine, engineers built an elevator for eels and shad, and then whales learned the route and started showing up
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 03:10:59 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.ecoportal.net/en/maine-fish-passage-restoration-project/30243/>
"For many years, the thousands of miles that migratory fish traveled every year
along the St. Croix River were filled with obstacles.
(More...)
The Real Reason Russia’s Ruling Class Is Struggling to Stop the War
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 03:13:12 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium-mirror.cfd/https://medium.com/@elvirabary/the-real-reason-russias-ruling-class-is-struggling-to-stop-the-war-f41624d3c817>
"It is burning through men, money, equipment, infrastructure, labor, markets,
and the last remains of normal life. It has made Russia more dependent on
China, more isolated from Europe, more militarized, more corrupt, and more
(More...)
Hank Green’s anti-AI AI psychosis
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 03:14:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.garbageday.email/p/hank-green-s-anti-ai-ai-psychosis
"Last week, YouTube long-hauler Hank Green was accused of using AI to write a
script for one of his new videos. The tell, according to one user, was the
line, “I appreciate the pushback,” which he says to himself in the video.
(More...)
Protecting pets in domestic violence cases will take more than a law change
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 03:15:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/protecting-pets-in-domestic-violence-cases-will-take-more-than-a-law-change-287772>
"We have known for a long time that when humans are abused in the family, it’s
likely any companion animals in the household are also being abused – and vice
versa.
(More...)
Berkeley implements nation-first green housing policy
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 03:17:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.dailycal.org/news/city/housing/berkeley-implements-nation-first-green-housing-policy/article_7b748d7a-e145-450f-bc4f-bad05085f5d8.html>
"Starting from Jan. 1 of this year, owners of one or two unit houses are
legally required to complete emissions-reducing upgrades to their houses during
a sale, funded by either the seller or the buyer. Berkeley is the first city in
(More...)
Older people’s media literacy can be boosted in just 60 minutes – new study
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 11:34:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
‘It’s generations of decline’: can Andy Burnham really end rough sleeping?
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 11:35:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jul/24/can-andy-burnham-really-end-rough-sleeping>
"It is close to midnight as two outreach workers from Spear, a homelessness
charity in south London, shine their torches around bushes on the edge of a
park in Twickenham.
(More...)
Some animals catch cancer from others in their species – here’s why humans aren’t one of them
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 11:36:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/some-animals-catch-cancer-from-others-in-their-species-heres-why-humans-arent-one-of-them-288320>
"Scientists in Vermont have just discovered something that shouldn’t really be
possible: a skin cancer that’s spreading from catfish to catfish. It’s only the
fourth transmissible cancer ever found in nature.
(More...)
Denver Cut Street Homelessness Nearly in Half
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 11:37:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.governing.com/urban/denver-cut-street-homelessness-nearly-in-half>
"During his 2023 campaign, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston told voters he could end
unsheltered homelessness in his first term. It was a big promise for a big
problem that few mayors feel they can control.
(More...)
India’s cockroach movement brought down a minister. Bringing real reform will be much harder
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 11:38:11 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/indias-cockroach-movement-brought-down-a-minister-bringing-real-reform-will-be-much-harder-288275>
"Over the past few weeks, young people have mobilised to protest India’s broken
education system, against the background of a shortage of job opportunities.
(More...)
More Shelters Make Room for Four-Legged Friends
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 11:38:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium-mirror.cfd/https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/31/realestate/homeless-shelter-pets.html>
"Father Joe’s Villages is a homeless shelter and detox facility in downtown San
Diego that can house about 800 people a night. On a campus spread across
several city blocks, it offers on-site health and dental clinics, a therapeutic
(More...)
Has the government failed to protect Torres Strait culture from rising seas? The full Federal Court is about to decide
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 22:57:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Great Barrier Reef microbiome mapped as researchers discover 500 bacterial species previously unknown to science
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 22:58:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jul/23/great-barrier-reef-microbiome-mapped-as-researchers-discover-500-bacterial-species-previously-unknown-to-science>
"More than a decade after the human microbiome was comprehensively mapped,
scientists have now identified the vast communities of microbes that make up
the Great Barrier Reef.
(More...)
Want to break free from big tech? ‘Self‑hosting’ could be the answer
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 22:59:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
France records more than 5,700 excess deaths during June heatwave
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 23:00:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/22/france-recorded-more-than-5700-excess-deaths-during-june-heatwave>
"France recorded more than 5,700 excess deaths during its June heatwave,
authorities have said, as swathes of southern Europe continue to endure another
record-breaking period of extreme temperatures.
(More...)
How a boy’s own song about eastern rosellas went viral and was covered by Ben Lee
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 23:00:49 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jul/23/eastern-rosella-bird-song-kid-miles-phillips-australia>
"Miles Phillips greets me at the door of his house with a high five. His hair
is spiked and a tiny, colourful parrot badge is pinned to his blazer collar.
The two huge cameras being lugged behind me by two producers don’t faze him.
(More...)
Fire can destroy peatlands. But in Australia, it can also help protect them
Thu, 6 Aug 2026 23:01:29 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/fire-can-destroy-peatlands-but-in-australia-it-can-also-help-protect-them-287374>
"Peatlands are the unsung heroes of nature.
These ancient wetlands form when dead and decaying plants partly decompose in
(More...)
NT minister claims Earth’s magnetic poles could flip if territory doesn’t use more groundwater
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 06:26:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/23/australia-politician-claims-northern-territory-water-could-flip-earths-magnetic-poles>
"A Northern Territory minister has been criticised for scientifically
inaccurate claims that groundwater in the Northern Territory needs to be used
to prevent the Earth’s magnetic poles from flipping.
(More...)
One grain to rule them all: the history of rice as a global food
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 06:29:34 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/one-grain-to-rule-them-all-the-history-of-rice-as-a-global-food-283060>
"Rice is the most popular food in the world, providing sustenance to more than
3.5 billion people each day.
(More...)
Butterflies around the world are changing habitats – and experts say it’s ‘signalling a warning’
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 06:31:18 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/aug/05/butterflies-around-the-world-are-changing-habitats-and-experts-say-its-signalling-a-warning>
"Butterflies, often considered a “sentinel of change”, are on the move across
every continent they inhabit, shifting to survive as global heating reshapes
their environment.
(More...)
El Niño could push 50m people into acute hunger before end of next year
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 06:32:20 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/aug/05/el-nino-could-push-50m-people-acute-hunger-next-year>
"About 50 million people are likely to be pushed into acute hunger before the
end of next year by the rapidly developing El Niño weather system, according to
forecasting.
(More...)
Ursula K. Le Guin’s Home Recognized as National Historic Landmark, to host Writers’ Residency
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 06:37:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://locusmag.com/2026/08/ursula-k-le-guins-home-recognized-as-national-historic-landmark-to-host-writers-residency/>
"Ursula K. Le Guin’s longtime residence at 3321 NW Thurman St. in Portland,
Oregon has been added to the National Register of Historic Places in
recognition of its “significance to American literature and women’s history.”
(More...)
‘If we don’t fight back, we don’t have a future’: the journalist taking on the ‘tech fascists’ of Silicon Valley
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 06:38:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/aug/05/journalist-taking-on-tech-fascists-silicon-valley>
"In April, Gil Durán was permanently banned from Elon Musk’s X for posting just
two words. Durán was responding to a post from the tech company Palantir
outlining its 22‑point “technological manifesto”, which praised American “hard
(More...)
A Growing Threat: The Anti Rights Movement In The UK July 2026
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 13:50:53 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
"Here’s the Amnesty International report that JK Rowling got pulled and
destroyed Amnesty’s reputation as a result. In it, Amnesty followed the money
re: anti-trans and anti-abortion orgs and tied it all very clearly together as
a global far-right anti-rights campaign, as well as a clear and present danger
to all."
(More...)
Risk of Parkinson’s disease may increase with prolonged exposure to road traffic noise
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 13:52:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jul/23/road-traffic-noise-parkinsons-disease-study-health>
"Long-term exposure to road traffic noise is associated with a higher risk of
Parkinson’s disease, the biggest study of its kind has found.
(More...)
freemediaheckyeah
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 13:53:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://fmhy.net/
"The largest collection of free stuff on the internet!"
Via Esther Schindler.
(More...)
Jenna Ortega's New Sci-Fi Combines the Best Parts of 'E.T.' and 'The Iron Giant'
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 13:58:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.cbr.com/klara-and-the-sun-combines-et-and-the-iron-giant/
"Kazuo Ishiguro published
Klara and the Sun in March 2021 as his first novel
since winning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2017, and the book debuted
immediately on the
New York Times fiction bestseller list. Sony Pictures'
(More...)
‘People want something more than value’: Why we’re so into buying Japanese stuff
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 14:01:23 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/people-want-something-more-than-value-why-we-re-so-into-buying-japanese-stuff-20260728-p60jag.html>
"Just before noon on Thursday, a queue of nearly 100 people had gathered
outside Muji, the Japanese homeware, stationery and apparel store inside
Melbourne’s labyrinthine shopping centre of Chadstone. Those in line had made
(More...)
How Gambian women are restoring the mangroves protecting Banjul
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 14:03:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/8/6/how-gambian-women-are-restoring-the-mangroves-protecting-banjul>
"
Banjul, The Gambia – At dawn, before the heat settles over the coast, Fatou
Jarjue waits for the tide to retreat.
(More...)
Carnival cruise workers make 'horrifying' allegations about conditions
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 22:49:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-06/carnival-cruise-workers-horrifying-allegations-conditions-pay/106967922>
"Passengers boarding a Carnival cruise ship are promised a world of endless
food, relaxation and oceanic luxury.
(More...)
People in the midwest know what a livestream is
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 22:51:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.garbageday.email/p/people-in-the-midwest-know-what-a-livestream-is>
"Dr. Abdul El-Sayed officially beat Rep. Haley Stevens in Michigan’s Senate
primary last night. It ended up being the most expensive primary in American
history, with super PACs dumping more than $60 million into the race to support
(More...)
Curvature
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 22:56:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://roadcurvature.com/
"As a motorcyclist who prefers carving through corners and exploring paths less
traveled to cruising at high-speed on major highways, I’m constantly searching
for scenic little roads that wind their way toward my destination with fun
(More...)
Short-haul electric flights could be a European reality in less than four years
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 23:14:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.euronews.com/2026/08/06/short-haul-electric-flights-could-be-a-european-reality-in-less-than-four-years>
"European travellers could take electric flights on some of the continent’s
most popular routes by the early 2030s, thanks to rapid advancements in tech.
(More...)
How to disable or avoid intrusive AI
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 23:16:13 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.librarian.net/notoai/
"One of the biggest questions I get at Drop-In Time at the library (besides
“what is taking up all my cloud storage?”) is how to disable or avoid intrusive
AI that shows up where people don’t want it. This is a guide for people who
(More...)
Andreessen Horowitz Partner Boasts That the Company’s New Tech Can Fabricate Fake History Like in “1984”
Fri, 7 Aug 2026 23:17:58 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://tech.yahoo.com/ai/articles/andreessen-horowitz-partner-boasts-company-165453896.html>
“Text-to-video AI generating tools have come a long way. Just three years ago,
we were all unsettled by grisly clips of actor Will Smith's face morphing while
"eating" a moving pile of spaghetti.
(More...)
Pauline Hanson blames ‘fake news’ media for her bad press. But serious leaders have to own their actions
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 05:28:42 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/24/pauline-hanson-blames-fake-news-media-serious-leaders-own-their-actions-ntwnfb>
"There’s apparently only one thing to blame for Pauline Hanson’s string of bad
headlines in recent weeks, from her decision to pal around with the far-right
convicted criminal Tommy Robinson to her description of domestic violence on
(More...)
Thinking of posting pictures of your child online? Ask these 4 questions first
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 05:30:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Thousands flee wildfires in France and Spain as temperatures reach extreme levels in southern Europe
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 05:31:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/23/people-evacuated-intense-wildfire-saumos-france>
"Brutal heat torching southern Europe has forced about 30,000 people to flee
wildfires in France and Spain as a marine heatwave scalds the Mediterranean and
researchers warn that “Dantesque” scenarios cannot be ruled out as infernos
(More...)
What two centuries of Perth storm records tell us about future climate risk
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 05:32:14 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/what-two-centuries-of-perth-storm-records-tell-us-about-future-climate-risk-282971>
"On the first day of winter, southwest Western Australia was pummelled by a
damaging storm. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) described it as the most
intense weather system to hit the region in almost 50 years. Although severe
(More...)
Climate crisis-driven heat ‘sucking soils dry’ as extreme drought hits Europe
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 05:33:40 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jul/23/climate-crisis-heat-sucking-soils-dry-extreme-drought-europe-analysis>
"Extreme heat supercharged by the climate crisis is sucking Europe dry in
summer and intensifying the drought hitting the continent, a scientific
analysis has found.
(More...)
Trump is sowing fear over Cuba, terrorism and the ‘radical left’. This is what could come next
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 05:34:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/trump-is-sowing-fear-over-cuba-terrorism-and-the-radical-left-this-is-what-could-come-next-288284>
"US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is again taking aim at Cuba. This time,
however, the Trump administration is framing Havana as a decades-long sponsor
of terrorism and espionage that has helped cultivate the “radical left” in the
(More...)
‘It’s only going to get worse’: wildfires forcing firefighters to make impossible choices
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 11:19:55 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/news/ng-interactive/2026/jul/18/the-impossible-choices-of-a-deadly-wildfire-season>
"César Alcaraz had only just become a firefighter in the late 1990s when he
found himself ambushed by a fast-moving blaze. Barely able to breathe and with
no more water left in his truck, he and his colleagues fled an inferno ravaging
(More...)
Gaming helps mums recover from parenting stress – but guilt can still get in the way
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 11:20:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/gaming-helps-mums-recover-from-parenting-stress-but-guilt-can-still-get-in-the-way-271752>
"Video gaming is a valued leisure activity in Australia. The latest data show
74% of Australian households own at least two gaming devices.
(More...)
It took months for an LGBTQ+ arts pop-up to resurrect an old church – but just three days to shut it down
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 11:21:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
Why does singing feel so good? And is it good for your health?
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 11:22:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/why-does-singing-feel-so-good-and-is-it-good-for-your-health-288203>
"Have you ever wondered why it feels so good to sing in the shower? Or why
turning up the radio up in the middle of a traffic jam and singing out loud can
put you in a better mood?
(More...)
Israeli siblings who fear breaking law in Gaza under IDF owed protection by Australia, tribunal finds
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 11:23:16 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/27/israeli-siblings-owed-protection-by-australia-after-vowing-not-to-serve-in-idf-tribunal-finds-ntwnfb>
"Three Israeli citizens facing conscription into the Israel Defense Forces have
been granted the right to reapply for protection visas in Australia, after a
government tribunal found they held a genuine fear they would be forced to
(More...)
“Disordered and delusionary thinking:” Ex-ADF chief calls out Australia’s climate hypocrisy
Sat, 8 Aug 2026 11:24:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/disordered-and-delusionary-thinking-ex-adf-chief-calls-out-australias-climate-hypocrisy/>
"Australia’s ongoing addiction to fossil fuel exports is undermining the
“enormous” success of the renewable energy transition and threatening national
security, one of the nation’s top military experts has warned.
(More...)
‘I thought, I’ve tried everything else, why not give AI a shot?’: the long-lost family reunited by ChatGPT
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 00:12:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/ng-interactive/2026/jul/25/long-lost-family-reunited-chatgpt-artificial-intelligence-ai>
"As a small boy growing up in Amritsar, India, in the 1960s, Avtar Singh used
to hear whispers.
Your mum isn’t really your mum, the rumours would say.
Your mum lives abroad. Avtar didn’t really pay any attention to it. “I
(More...)
Donald Trump blames Canada for wildfire smoke — but global warming is loading the wildfire dice
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 00:13:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/donald-trump-blames-canada-for-wildfire-smoke-but-global-warming-is-loading-the-wildfire-dice-288167>
"United States President Donald Trump has accused Canada of “wilful negligence”
over wildfires, blaming its forest management, threatening tariffs and floating
demands for compensation. His argument is absurd.
(More...)
Safe as houses: how to make your outdoor cat at home indoors to protect themselves and the environment
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 00:15:02 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/aug/08/how-to-keep-outdoor-cat-indoors-protect-environment>
"Cats are a popular pet in Australia: second only to dogs, they’re found in a
third of homes, with about 5.3 million felines nationally.
(More...)
Smart glasses are going mainstream. Do current privacy laws protect us from the risks?
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 00:17:41 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/smart-glasses-are-going-mainstream-do-current-privacy-laws-protect-us-from-the-risks-289138>
"There are now many more people walking the streets in Australia wearing
glasses that can subtly film and record the world around them. That’s in large
part thanks to Kmart, which recently introduced – and then rapidly sold out of
(More...)
Why Russians Lie to Your Face and Expect You To Know it
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 00:18:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://freedium-mirror.cfd/https://medium.com/@elvirabary/why-russians-lie-to-your-face-and-expect-you-to-know-it-5cd9a8c05e9f>
“Because the point isn't to convince you. The point is to perform the safe
sentence out loud… while assuming you're smart enough to hear the real message
underneath.
(More...)
Wholesome Games Celebration
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 00:19:35 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://store.steampowered.com/sale/wholesomegames
"Discover the joy and creativity that video games have to offer during the
Wholesome Games Celebration!
(More...)
‘List of doom’: Hundreds of species facing heightened bird flu risk in Australia
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 12:30:01 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.odt.co.nz/news/world/list-of-doom-hundreds-of-species-facing-heightened-bird-flu-risk-in-australia-jqshepu6>
“One in five Australian birds and mammals are facing a "high to extreme risk"
from the escalating bird flu virus that's starting to devastate wildlife.
(More...)
Conference notes: Digital and sexual citizenship in an age of social media bans
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 12:31:22 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://skycroeser.net/blog/conference-digital-and-sexual-citizenship-in-an-age-of-social-media-bans/>
"This conference is an initiative of the ECU Ethical Digital Futures Group.
Uncle Kevin Fitzgerald opened by reflecting on what it means to be on Noongar
(More...)
Always remember how Macquarie built its millionaires on outrageous tolls and charges
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 12:32:45 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jul/26/always-remember-how-macquarie-built-its-millionaires-on-outrageous-tolls-and-charges>
"The recent retirement of the Macquarie Group CEO, Shemara Wikramanayake, marks
the culmination of a highly successful career. She is leaving the company with
shares worth hundreds of millions of dollars after nearly 40 years at the
(More...)
The Spark: How Neighbors Are Banding Together to Go Greener
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 12:33:44 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/the-spark-green-home-energy/
"Perched on a small peninsula jutting from Massachusetts’ rocky North Shore,
the town of Marblehead appears, at first glance, to be a picturesque piece of
the past. But upon closer inspection, inside the antique colonial homes that
(More...)
How Trump could undermine the midterms
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 12:34:28 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/news/ng-interactive/2026/jul/26/trump-undermine-us-midterms>
"When Donald Trump commandeered primetime US television last Thursday, he
delivered a familiar, but still extraordinary, message. The president argued
once again that the results of the 2020 election, which he lost to Joe Biden,
(More...)
The musicians turning bat calls into club music
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 12:35:30 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/environment/conservation/the-musicians-turning-bat-calls-into-club-music/>
"
Echo in the Dark, by artists Hanna Tuulikki and Tommy Perman, transforms the
ultrasonic calls of eight bat species into electronic music, blending
translated bat recordings with the human voice.
(More...)
Surveillance Tech Company Is Pitching An Unholy ALPR/Stingray Hybrid To Law Enforcement
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 18:18:15 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.techdirt.com/2026/06/24/surveillance-tech-company-is-pitching-an-unholy-alpr-stingray-hybrid-to-law-enforcement/>
"Here’s something no one but cops and the tech firms that love cops wanted: an
ALPR that can scoop up pretty much
any information being broadcasted by cars
and the devices carried by the people inside them. As if ALPRs weren’t already
(More...)
The ornithological artist drawing 1,000 birds by hand – all for an app that wants you off your phone
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 18:19:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/aug/08/birds-artist-flock-app-california>
"On a brilliantly bright afternoon in his gallery and studio in Bolinas, a
small town on the northern California coast, Keith Hansen was putting the
finishing touches on a watercolor of an almost improbably flamboyant painted
(More...)
Barnaby Joyce backs One Nation’s ‘monocultural’ vision of Australia. But the reality in his NSW electorate is very different
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 18:20:37 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/ng-interactive/2026/jul/27/barnaby-joyce-one-nation-immigration-monoculture-australia-refugees>
"The warm sound of Swahili gospel songs fills the air in the small church hall.
Worshippers sway in the pews. A woman dancing spills into the aisle. A trio of
(More...)
Outrage machine winning as Australians worry that others don’t support energy transition
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 18:21:31 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/outrage-machine-winning-as-australians-worry-that-others-dont-support-energy-transition/>
"It’s not news to say that Australians are even more in love with their energy
home upgrades than ever before, but uncertainty about what other people think
of the energy transition is creating doubt.
(More...)
‘Get rid of them’: One Nation senator claims party will ‘remigrate’ illegal visa holders in resurfaced interview
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 18:22:25 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/27/get-rid-of-them-one-nation-senator-claims-party-will-remigrate-visa-holders-in-resurfaced-interview-ntwnfb>
"Senator Malcolm Roberts claims One Nation wants to deport at least 200,000
people and has repeatedly referred to the far-right concept of “remigration” in
podcast interviews and speeches to niche platforms.
(More...)
How schools are winning children over to healthier lunches
Sun, 9 Aug 2026 18:23:10 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.positive.news/society/how-schools-are-winning-children-over-to-healthier-lunches/>
"It’s midday on a Friday and children are pouring into the lunch hall at
Greenside primary school, an inner-city state school in west London.
(More...)
Our Last, Best Chance to Cool the Earth | Bill McKibben | TED
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 05:18:39 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LTGzEzDat0
“We're living through oil wars, wildfire smoke and extreme weather driven by a
warming planet. But environmentalist Bill McKibben says one thing is finally
going right: the price of clean energy has plunged, making it cheaper than ever
(More...)
When the AI bubble bursts, what will Australia do with the tools it built? One man thinks he has the answer
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 05:19:32 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/27/when-the-ai-bubble-bursts-what-will-australia-do-with-the-tools-it-built-one-man-thinks-he-has-the-answer>
"When the AI bubble bursts, executives who enthusiastically replaced their
staff with AI tools will learn that it takes a “really long time” to replace
those lost skills, says Cory Doctorow, a science fiction author and journalist.
(More...)
“Makes no sense:” Labor mulls third oil refinery as analysts urge faster push into EVs
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 05:22:21 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/makes-no-sense-labor-mulls-third-oil-refinery-as-analysts-urge-faster-push-into-evs/>
"Australia’s fuel excise cut is likely to come to an end on Sunday, the prime
minister has hinted, as the federal Labor government also hints at a possible
third refinery for the country – to the horror of some energy and climate
(More...)
India’s Cockroach Janta party protest victory signals trouble ahead for Modi
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 05:23:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/26/india-cockroach-protest-victory-signals-trouble-ahead-for-narendra-modi>
"Even the night before Narendra Modi accepted the resignation of his education
minister, India’s prime minister appeared confident that the largest mass
uprising to take place in his 12 years in power would do little to rattle his
(More...)
Mentally, are young people really worse off? Or are they better at admitting they’re struggling?
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 05:24:07 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
(More...)
What’s Working: How Justice Ramos turned need into entrepreneurship for kids in Cortez and on the Navajo Nation
Mon, 10 Aug 2026 05:25:05 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://coloradosun.com/2026/08/08/navajo-nation-entrepreneurship-kids-cortez-training-jobs/>
"Just like in a Gabriel Garcia Marquez novel, Justice Ramos was given a name
that intertwines with his destiny.
(More...)
Pedro Sánchez says Spain is suffering effects of climate crisis as firefighters battle wildfires in France
Tue, 11 Aug 2026 01:11:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/26/firefighters-in-france-battle-to-prevent-huge-blaze-from-approaching-bordeaux>
"Authorities in France battled to contain a huge wildfire near Bordeaux as the
forecast of another heatwave threatened to deepen the crisis and the Spanish
prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, warned Spain and the Iberian peninsula were
(More...)
Seven suspected new bird flu cases are ‘evidence of spread’ into Australian wildlife, experts warn
Tue, 11 Aug 2026 01:12:26 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/27/h5-bird-flu-suspected-new-cases-south-australia>
"South Australia has reported seven new suspected cases of deadly H5 bird flu,
with experts warning it could be a sign the disease has begun spreading through
local bird populations.
(More...)
Media coverage of environmental disasters doesn’t come with a content warning. It’s time for change
Tue, 11 Aug 2026 01:13:43 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://theconversation.com/media-coverage-of-environmental-disasters-doesnt-come-with-a-content-warning-its-time-for-change-286564>
"Since South Australia’s toxic algal bloom started to kill millions of marine
organisms in March 2025, the media has been filled with images of dead and
suffering coasts, plants and animals.
(More...)
Why the R-Word Is the Defining Slur of the Trump Era
Tue, 11 Aug 2026 01:17:24 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://www.notus.org/perspectives/why-the-r-word-is-the-defining-slur-of-the-trump-era>
"Last Thanksgiving, while the rest of us were trying not to start a fight at
the dinner table, President Trump started one on the internet. He took to Truth
Social to call Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz “seriously retarded.” When a reporter
(More...)
Trump’s Patriot Games are billed as a youth sports contest. They’re also a test of patriotic branding
Tue, 11 Aug 2026 01:19:33 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://edition.cnn.com/2026/08/09/politics/patriot-games-trump-partisan-patriotic-branding>
"The premise sounds almost fictional: one boy and one girl from every state,
territory and some tribal nations, flown to a private campus in Ohio to compete
in a televised athletic contest called the Patriot Games — a Trump-backed youth
(More...)
Trump bans robots and inverters from China – and it could be a big win for Australia
Tue, 11 Aug 2026 01:21:08 +1000
Andrew Pam <xanni [at] glasswings.com.au>
<
https://reneweconomy.com.au/trump-bans-robots-and-inverters-from-china-and-it-could-be-a-big-win-for-australia/>
"The Trump administration has unveiled bans that target imports of new Chinese
robots and power inverters, seeking to protect the US AI buildout from
national security threats and re-shore key industries slated for explosive
(More...)
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