#Crisis & Issues

[indrosphere]

Fire in the Sky: The Tragedy of Air India Flight AI171

June 12, 2025, will remain etched in the collective memory of India—and indeed the world—as a day of immeasurable sorrow. That morning, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner bound for London’s Gatwick Airport, plunged into the boys’ hostel of a medical college in Ahmedabad. In moments, what should have been a routine international departure turned into a blazing horror. The aircraft…

[uniqueeval]

The Hindu Morning Digest: August 30, 2024

People Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers and tanks during military disengagement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) at the India-China border in Ladakh. | Photo Credit: AFP India, China hold 31st border affairs meeting to resolve standoff at LAC India and China had a “frank, constructive and forward-looking exchange of views” on the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to “narrow…

[rom-e-o]

So, like, I know Rook and Emmrich are supposed to be "moving fast" in their relationship. But what does that mean for Belismrich? What's their timeline for relationship markers?

For Guineverich it's, of course, the first kiss/makeout session on their first official date. Which is practically recklessly fast for G'iney, considering the best outcome for any of her first dates previously was the guy giving her a handshake as he dropped her off home before vanishing into the night to leave her to her life of health issues, never to be seen again. The second date already has Emmrich bringing food to her place and them getting hot and heavy with him sucking on her tits and both their hands down pants at the very least. So there's quite an amp-up there in that extremely short time span. (Girl even has a mini identity crisis in front of friends, wondering if she's "that type" of woman: "Is that what I am--the fast girl? Easy? Loose? Is that who I am?" To which friends suggest: "This seems less about who you are and more about who Emmrich could be." [i.e. The One]). Then three months of varying degrees of sexual experimentation and fun before they finally go all the way. Which might not be particularly fast for a lot, but for Guinevere, who thought she'd never even lose her virginity because she would never give it up to anyone who she wasn't sure was her true love but had little hope of ever finding that, it's practically breakneck.

Oh, those Ravens? Get it, you two. It is very, VERY much deserved.

I was thinking about this ask as we discussed the other one, specifically regarding how "fast" Emmrich and rook really move in their relationship, and how quickly things come to fruition, are consummated, etc.

For G'iney to take the plunge into making out on the first date is a pretty dang big deal. We've established that they have a good foundation of friendships & communication (not to mention Manfred being an adorable matchmaker that ties them together as a family unit from the get-go). The second date, the fact that they're already getting hot and heavy to that degree is a testament to how compatible they are.

I can see where G'iney's worry comes from. I mean, you're going from 0-100, so pausing to think for a minute is a good sign. I can only imagine Neve brings her back to reality. "This has never happened before, like you said. So, that tells me that this specific time is special. That he is special. Trust what you feel, Guinevere. You're cautious and careful. If there were red flags, you're not one to miss them. And I must say ... you two are very cute together." ;)

Emmrich might even do to some companions of his own for advice. He doesn't have many close friends (academia kept him distracted) but it would be fascinating if he went to Lucanis. Harding, as well, who seems to be the one he opens up the most to about relationships/marriage.

"I do worry, I confess. Are Guinevere and I moving too quickly? I don't want to push her, but everything just feels so natural and right."

H: Really? Sounds like there's no issue.

L: I agree. If things were moving too fast, Guinevere would tell you. She is capable of speaking her mind, as I'm sure you know. Keep your ears open, my friend, but otherwise, embrace it. You both deserve it.

For Belismerich? Ohoho. Well~

So, their first time having sex is in the coffin in the Necropolis. It any universe, I think it take about 6 months for them to sleep together.

Ebenestance and Belismerich both sleep together on the third date, technically, haha.

Belisma isn't a virgin, but she has ... things to work out. She's a sweet, wonderful, kind woman (I'm bias, haha) ... but she has a lot of rage inside her. Not at Emmrich, but at life. It hasn't been kind to her. At all. She realizes she's maybe a little emotionally immature as well, and wants to work on it.

She needs time to unpack all that before diving in deep with a man who, in her opinion, deserves the world. She is not a woman that will throw her heavy baggage to a loved one and yell "CATCH."

Emmrich deserves more.

Still, I do think Emmrich and her move fast. Not necessarily sexually...but intimately.

After the first kiss, they can be found necking in the dark corridors of the Lighthouse, or embracing each other frequently. Or even reading love poetry to each other in the library.

I think they sleep together (as in they literally ONLY sleep) after that dinner date. They make-out, she feels his erection, and then go back to her room and just...unwind. Make-up/jewelry off, pajamas changed. They see each other casual and bare-faced. They read to each other. They talk. They make shadows with their entwined hands against the candlelight. It's lots of honeyed words and softness. Some groping, but nothing too crazy.

After that, they get each other off with handjobs/blowjobs (which is when Davrin's 'tugging at the old bone' comment comes in, haha).

By the third 'date', it's clothes off and full coupling. It may be their first time in bed, but also by then, they've seen each other nude and satisfied another in bed.

After that? They're off to the races. Post-game, she and Emmrich immediately move in together, travel with Manfred (when he says "There is so much I want to show you" <3) and are...pretty frequent in bed. Marriage and babies follow shortly, haha.

[wanderingmind867]

We're approaching the end of my Justice League Canada ideas series. There's like three parts left after this one. So even though this is some of the most exhausting work ever (transcribing these things onto here), I shall persevere for my last few posts.

Issue #69: Returning to Earth following their adventures in the Anti-Matter Universe, the Justice League Canada now have to deal with Johnny Quick and Power Ring, their captives from the anti-matter earth. Realizing that these two men are probably not immediate hero material (Johnny Quick is a drug addict and Power Ring is a timid coward dominated by his ring), the league decides to keep them as guests at their ottawa headquarters.

Meanwhile, the crisis with Kronos/Saturn is beginning to intensify. It's clear that things are beginning to get troublesome, because an earthquake strikes Justice League headquarters shortly after they land back on earth. It's not quite clear what that all means, but Nubia has her suspicions…the earth itself seems to be waking. Kronos/Saturn may have awoken his mother.

But Gaea/Terra awakening is still the least of the Justice League's concerns. More important is that they return to their headquarters to find it being robbed by a ring of C-List criminals. Criminals like The Virus (making his triumphant return to this book since his last appearance back in issue #35)! And his new partner: The Amp!

The Amp was just Adrianna Andrews, a woman with adhd who got the ability to control sounds after a freak accident involving electrical equipment at a rock concert. Now she's always overwhelmed and overstimulated, and her power is the ability to make other people overwhelmed. Her voice emits the same static effect as a fuzzy tv channel, and it drives people into fits of tears and insanity.

When The Amp met The Virus in jail, it was a match made a heaven. Two people who're always in constant pain (one who's always sick, one who's always overwhelmed) teaming up to act as the world's most pitful (yet effective) robbers. And now the Justice League Canada has to deal with them.

1. Jemm, Son of Saturn

2. The Question (Vic Sage)

3. William Nielsen

4. Willow/Mantis

5. The Admiral (Sam Heartsea)

6. Booster Gold (Michael Jon Carter)

7. Nubia of Themyscira

8. Green Lantern III (Guy Gardner)

Additional Members/Guests:

9. Johnny Quick (Barton Allen)

10. Power Ring (Harold Jordan)

Issue #70: This story picks up about a week after the events of issue #69. After finally having some time to rest, the league's gonna finally try to look into why Johnny Quick has gone catatonic and why Power Ring seems to be losing his grip on sanity. Green Lantern's power ring (alongside willow's empathic nature) manages to pinpoint that that it's Power Ring's ring that's actually causing all the problems.

Calling on Aqsarniit to help them (and with The Phantom Stranger helpfully materializing to help too), they try to drive the ring of volthoom off of harold's finger. Although they succeed, the ring was so powerful that it blew a hole right through the justice league's headquarters and flew off for parts unknown.

And a call to Blue Beetle means he comes back to the team, to help Vic Sage and Booster Gold try and figure out johnny quick's problems. Those three manage to figure out that he got all of his powers from his speed juice drug. But since the drug doesn't work here on the positive matter earth, his body has gone into catatonic shock. Unless they can cure him within a few days, he will die.

Realizing that the team needs to split up so that they can help both johnny quick wake from his coma and find the ring of volthoom before it finds a new host, the team splits into two groups.

1. Jemm, Son of Saturn

2. The Question (Vic Sage)

3. William Nielsen

4. Willow/Mantis

5. The Admiral (Sam Heartsea)

6. Booster Gold (Michael Jon Carter)

7. Blue Beetle (Ted Kord)

8. Nubia of Themyscira

9. Green Lantern III (Guy Gardner)

10. Aqsarniit

Additional Members/Guests:

11. Johnny Quick (Barton Allen)

12. Power Ring (Harold Jordan)

13. The Phantom Stranger

[greensparty]

Stuff I'm Looking Forward To In November

Can't believe it's now November and it's about to get a lot colder and darker out. In addition to Diwali (11/1), Daylight Savings Time Ending (11/3), Election Day (11/5), Veterans Day (11/11), and Thanksgiving (11/28) here is what's on my radar this month:

Movies:

Blitz 

Steve McQueen (the director, not the action actor of yesteryear) is one of the finest directors of the last 15 years with dramas like Shame and 12 Years a Slave. Now he's back with a British World War II drama. Opens 11/1 and Apple TV+ premiere on 11/22.

Juror #2

Clint Eastwood is now 94 and it's amazing to see the caliber of films he's directed just in the last 20 years. His new legal thriller reunited About a Boy stars Nicholas Hoult and Toni Collette too. Opens 11/1.

Beatles '64

Director David Tedeschi has been the longtime editor on a number of Martin Scorsese's documentaries over the years, but he really impressed me when he co-directed with Scorsese the doc Personality Crisis. Now Tedeschi, with Scorsese producing, is turning his attention to the year 1964 for The Beatles. Premieres 11/29 on Disney+ (review to come).

Music:

Primal Scream Come Ahead

Scotland's Primal Scream haven't released a new album in eight years. Now they are back with a new one dropping on 11/8.

George Harrison Living In the Material World 50th Anniversary

George Harrison's fourth solo studio album was released in 1973. Now to celebrate the 50th anniversary (actually 51 but who's counting?) its getting the anniversary deluxe treatment. Re-release on 11/15 (review to come).

Kim Deal Nobody Loves You More

It might surprise you to learn that legendary bassist / singer Kim Deal, known for her work with The Pixies as her own bands The Breeders and The Amps, has never released a solo album. Until now that is! Album drops 11/22!

The Beatles The U.S. Albums in Mono Box Set

Speaking of The Beatles and 1964 being a historic year for them, 6 of their U.S. albums and 1 from 1965 are being released in a special remastered box set dropping 11/22 (review to come).

U2 How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb 20th Anniversary Edition

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of one of U2's best albums, there will be a 20th anniversary edition being released in various formats featuring unreleased outtakes. Re-issue drops 11/29.

Events:

Northeast Comic Con

I’ve had a blast covering the Northeast Comic Con for years now (read my coverage here) and the Holiday 2024 edition looks awesome with special guests like Micky Dolenz, Michael Des Barres, Kelli Maroney, and more! Convention is at the Boxborough Regency (Boxborough, MA) from 11/29-12/1 (coverage to come).

RSD Black Friday

As if Record Store Day weren't exciting enough as a day to celebrate record stores, but with Black Friday, they have a special RSD edition on 11/29!

[georgiapeach30513]

I’ll probably get roasted for this but I said what I said: I enjoyed pain hustlers way more than Oppenheimer.

I’m mad that the critics loved that damn movie and I’m a Nolan fan (the Dark knight trilogy was my fav for yearsssss) because man did it really let down for me.

I was also very excited for past lives and then was let down. and that one is another awards darling. As an Asian person, I am very happy that Asian directors and stories are getting more attention but…sometimes I feel it could be at the expense of just being a token. I felt that way about everything everywhere all at once too. Many of my Asian friends and my parents hated the film but just wanted to be happy for Michelle and Ke and Stephanie because we’ve constantly been overlooked for representation. But honestly?

There have been better stories told.

Of course, movies are subjective. Opinions vary.

But I really for some reason enjoyed pain hustlers. I think it’s because I like the director (David Yates) and all of the main cast, and I have a lot of interest in pharma and the opioid crisis. I just wanted it to be good - maybe I was too amped for it and it just fell short.

I think it’s a shame about PH because it could have been AMAZING if the storyline had just gone harder and farther and more bold. And if they hadn’t played it so safe. I was impressed by everyone’s performance. Chris was awesome and I feel very sorry that he’s so underused when it counts. I really hope the fandom lore that his PR team lurks tumblr IS actually true (imagine lol) and they will see this post and just help him steer himself into a better direction.

I enjoy all your posts and discussions on your blog. From your cookie jar, your stories you write, and just your comments about *NSYNC. You seem like such a fun person to be around! Thank you for this space!

I personally really enjoyed Pain Hustlers. Obviously there was some issues, just like with most movies, but Chris gave a solid performance!!

And you're right, opinions will vary. But I do feel like there seems to be a lot of people in agreement with you. So it's interesting to see more and more people talk about Oppenheimer was a bit of a let down.

I think one of the biggest issues with PH is it was late to the game of so many opioid crisis projects. They focused on being too stylized when I wanted to have more of a character piece. But I agree that they played it too safe.

Here's the thing, his team does lurk, I have no doubt about that. But what they take from it, I'm not sure. But there are so many that are rooting for him and his career I hope that they see some good observations.

Thank you for being here, anon! I love talking about this man and his projects. He's a fun actor, and I hope that my blog is only a tiny bit of a light in this too serious right now fandom!

[audio-luddite]

Tripping Down Under.

Just got back and am unpacking my jet lag. In Sydney I met a guy who has 35 guitars and more than a few amps for same. He is a collector so frets about using genuine NOS tubes, but strangely has not put them in his amps and tried them out. It may be all about labels. He also had a large box packed with a lot of tube he did not want. I left it with having his son, my virtual son-in-law, to photograph and make a list so I can figure if there is any treasure there. Unfortunately no KT88s or 6550s for me. So sad Wa Waaa.

In Brisbane I told my brother's best friend that a blue tooth speaker is not really enough for his man cave (in Oz a "man shed") and he should get a real system. His wife agreed. Another potential victim of this hobby.

I looked at the local ads in the Australian Audio Mart and in Gumtree their classified ad thing. Generally the prices are similar to NA. but some stuff is very expensive.

All that said I did no high end activity at all except for attending a concert presentation of Das Rheingold in the Sydney Opera House. It was a long night, even though that is the shortest ring opera. We had decent seats about centered in the first balcony (circle). The sound was good and very realistic.

Wagner had a lot of brass and well loud stuff. The acoustic treatments worked well and the sound was clear and natural.

I tried to explain to my daughter that my audio hobby was an attempt to bring this kind of experience into my home. Great music without having to dress fancy and pay $200 bucks for 4 glasses of wine and some finger sandwiches.

While I was in Australia I got a notice of a black Friday deal for new 6550s at a substantial discount. Good ones apparently as they were new production from China but triple tested in Canada. I was not going to order it from Oz, but once home the deal was gone.

I am in a bit of a fret about getting a new tube set. 8 large power tubes are around $1k right now. The CL60 is voiced for Russian tubes and supply is tricky with that FN war Putin started. There is stock at my reliable supplier for now. In one or two years......

I would like to get a full set of power tubes while the current ones are still good. I figure at least one year is in the cards, maybe two before it is time to replace them. I can wait, but I am nervous.

This is a serious issue with tube electronics. Tubes wear out and are expensive. Golden ear writers can buy sets as a business expense. Affluent people can keep multiple sets for rolling. I just want consistent reliability with good quality. I do not like the idea of swapping tubes to adjust the sound of a system. That is just wrong in my universe.

In other news I read a thing by Frank Doris about imperfect audio systems.

This guy was the house tech at Absolute Sound during the HP years. He has heard it all. I think he is actually getting it. He hints at my thesis that there is no best just preferences but then kinda drifts into his preferences as best.

The title image is an example of Wabi-sabi the Japanese acceptance of imperfection. Call that Ironic given that much of the best audio stuff comes from Japan. Kaisen is the Japanese process of continual improvement.

I have preferences. I like detail and clarity. I made my speakers to minimize room reflections. I like ARC stuff that I can afford. So old stuff. That guided my preamp selection for years. And yes I have now snagged an ARC tube amp. These products speak to me. Yes they need a tiny tweak in the phono loading to work properly with non-mc pickups, but otherwise none. I do not care for McIntosh for irrational reasons. Hell I admit that this is an irrational hobby.

But it is fun.

[indrosphere]

Operation Sindoor: A Nation's Resolve Echoes Beyond the Borders

Living in the heartland of India, far removed from the physical borders yet intimately connected to the nation’s pulse, the news of Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, hit me like a thunderbolt. The Indian Armed Forces’ precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) came as a bold response to the horrific Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which…

[assassinationtipsforladies]

You know the President can't/shouldn't sign executive orders for everything.

But also, completely incompetent fact checking lads.

Abortion access: https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/aug/03/biden-executive-order-protect-abortion-access

Student loans: this wqs huge news. He went to court for this, but the Supreme Court ruled that they couldn't do student loan forgiveness, and this isn't actually an autocracy, but an attempt was made

Covid https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/09/09/executive-order-on-requiring-coronavirus-disease-2019-vaccination-for-federal-employees/

Literally one of his first executive orders was about climate change, and it isn't the only one relevant to climate change (not ANY climate issues, give me a fucking break) https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/27/executive-order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis-at-home-and-abroad/

BLM https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/20/executive-order-advancing-racial-equity-and-support-for-underserved-communities-through-the-federal-government/

Gun control https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/03/14/executive-order-on-reducing-gun-violence-and-making-our-communities-safer/

Hawaii https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/08/10/president-joseph-r-biden-jr-approves-hawaii-disaster-declaration-3/

This was ten minutes of googling. Whether you think these are sufficient to address the issues, fine, but to say he didn't sign any orders about these isuues is simply false. Just be mad about the thing you're mad about. You don't have to make up other shit

[impaaktmagazine]

Yoni Sappir: Pioneering Sustainable Energy&amp; Climate Solution

Some leaders chase profit; Yoni Sappir, CEO of Future-Consulting Firm, chases purpose.

Guided by a commitment to combat the climate crisis, pollution, and biodiversity loss, Yoni sappir has built a career around green-tech innovation and systemic change. From doubling Israel’s renewable energy targets to mentoring young visionaries at climate hackathons, his work embodies the boldness and creativity needed to tackle global challenges.

At Future – Consulting Firm, Yoni Sappir connects groundbreaking ideas with real-world impact, creating a ripple effect of sustainability that spans industries and borders.

Inspired by his visionary approach to addressing global environmental challenges, we at IMPAAKT sat down with Yoni to learn more about his journey, his innovative strategies, and his relentless drive to shape a better tomorrow.

Below are the excerpts from the interview:

Yoni Sappir , your professional journey spans various sectors and leadership roles. What inspired you to focus on green-tech and eco-tech industries, and how has this focus shaped your career?

At a certain point, I began asking myself where I could contribute most to human society and my environment, and what issue, if I focused on it, would allow me to bring the greatest value to the world. In a sudden 'Aha!' moment in a sleepless night, it became crystal clear: addressing the three monumental crises facing our planet and humanity—the pollution crisis, the biodiversity crisis, and the climate crisis—was the answer. This revelation wasn't just a career decision; it was a fundamental shift in my worldview and purpose.

In response, I gradually shifted my focus to companies providing innovative solutions in climate, sustainability, and energy. At the same time, I became increasingly involved in environmental and social activism, working to drive meaningful policy change on both local and global levels in these critical fields. These business and public initiatives complement and reinforce one another, creating a powerful synergy that amplifies their collective impact.

In your journey as a leader and mentor, what has been your most defining moment in the green-tech and climate-tech space?

You might be surprised by my answer, but it was during my time as a mentor for groups of teenagers participating in an overnight hackathon focused on solutions for climate crisis adaptation—including establishing resilience centers and developing supporting software—that I was moved to tears. These young people demonstrate astonishing drive, wisdom, and creativity. When I look at them, I am convinced that humanity will find its way out of the crises I mentioned earlier—through them.

They are an upgraded, more aware generation than we are. It’s a shame that we’re leaving them with such heavy problems to solve, but it’s incredible to see their energy and determination to tackle them. We just need to be there for them along the way, sharing knowledge and experience to help make it happen. But we must do so with the proper sensitivity, as some of them view us as the generation responsible for creating these crises—and they are absolutely right.

Future-Consulting Firm focuses on strategy, innovation, and creative investment structures. What is your process for identifying impactful opportunities in the eco-tech space?

I maintain close ties with entrepreneurial and investor communities through conferences, seminars, webinars, and personal meetings. I identify the strongest teams working on the hottest topics and focus my efforts on them. My goal is to help such groups maximize the impact of their work.

On the other hand, I also maintain relationships with funds, investors, and angel investors, enabling me to assist in creating a strong deal flow. I have global connections, with a particular emphasis on Europe and East Asia, which often helps entrepreneurs establish valuable connections. Additionally, my ties to academic experts allow me to link the right venture with professionals who can assist in R&D or provide guidance as part of a scientific advisory board.

You’ve been instrumental in founding and supporting numerous sustainability initiatives. Can you share the story behind the creation of Israel Earth Guardians and its most impactful achievement to date?

As I mentioned, I decided to act both in the business and public spheres. I founded the NGO Israel Earth Guardians (IEG), and through the mobilization of citizens, experts, and volunteers, we influence government policy. For example, In 2020, we helped almost double Israel's renewable energy electricity production targets from 17% to 30%; in 2024, we pushed for and supported the enactment of the carbon tax and the Climate Law; in 2019, we drastically reduced emissions from gas rigs (by 98%), strengthened oversight and enforcement in the gas sector, including compelling fossil fuel companies to invest tens of millions of dollars in emission reductions and penalizing them when they failed to comply with regulatory requirements (2020-2024). Additionally, together with partners, we established a forum in 2020 to promote the divestment from fossil fuels to a low-carbon economy.

Which new energy technologies do you believe will be the most significant in the future?

We're entering a transformative era with key energy technologies poised to shape the future. In energy storage and generation, we'll see advancements in various storage solutions like thermal, deep-water, and hydrogen-based systems, as well as next-generation batteries. Solar technology will improve with high-efficiency panels, including bifacial, dual-function (thermal and electrical), and perovskite-based designs. Wind power will evolve with vertical and floating turbines, and improved radar systems to avoid collision with birds. Other renewable sources like deep geothermal, localized artificial hydropower energy, and green hydrogen turbines and furnaces will gain prominence.

Grid efficiency will be revolutionized by smart technologies with AI integration, and micro-grid services. We'll also witness the rise of emerging technologies such as nano-materials, thermal solutions for heavy industry, aggregators platforms, demand-side management and energy efficiency solutions, waste-to-energy solutions, organic photovoltaic technology, wave, current, and tidal power systems, nuclear fusion, and insulating materials for buildings.

Maintenance and management will be enhanced through solar field management software, cleaning robots, and innovative panel coatings.

What do you see as the biggest barriers to the widespread adoption of green technologies, and how is Future-Consulting firm addressing those challenges?

Well, there are two main obstacles that are interconnected. The first is government support—economic and regulatory. The second is public awareness. Without public pressure, the government will drag its feet. Without government support, research and industry will stall. That’s why both are absolutely essential.

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has globally impacted activity, with factories relocating to the U.S. for government support. It’s so significant that even the climate denial approach of the Trump administration is unlikely to halt the momentum. This momentum stems from government support, which, in turn, was driven by public pressure to act in this direction.

Therefore, these two vectors are deeply interdependent and critical for success. That’s why I work to drive both policy change - legislation, regulation and budgeting, and public awareness - encouraging and awakening the civil society, in these contexts. Without these two arms, the industry cannot take root.

You often collaborate with leaders across industry, government, and academia. How do these partnerships enhance the adoption of sustainable practices?

As I mentioned, there is no future for the green-tech and climate-tech industries without government support—subsidies, incentives, exemptions from levies, tax credits, R&D and applied R&D budgets, as well as supportive regulation and the removal of barriers. Therefore, we work on one front to promote all these measures with the government, and on the other, to enable the industry and the public to benefit from these advantages and implement their solutions as quickly and efficiently as possible.

 What is your long-term vision for Future as a consulting firm in the green-tech and eco-tech industries?

In the coming years, we aim to establish our own fund to invest directly in high-impact ventures. Separately, we plan to incubate ideas and technologies in-house, whether entrepreneurial or derived from applied research and academic intellectual property, creating a supportive environment that fosters the growth of innovative startups. Additionally, it might be worthwhile to bridge the two areas I mentioned by helping entrepreneurs remove government barriers and influence regulation at key points.

If you could address one major policy gap related to climate change, what would it be and why?

Addressing New Projects – Fossil fuel projects continue to be relentlessly established around the world, contributing to the fact that, since the first climate conference held about 30 years ago, emissions have continued to rise monotonically. In my opinion, a binding global decision must be made to halt the promotion of new fossil fuel projects; otherwise, we will never emerge from the crisis we are in. While a first step was taken in this direction at the Dubai conference in 2023, it was weak, vague, and non-binding for the member countries. A treaty should be promoted among developed nations that prohibits the establishment of any new high-emission projects of any kind (energy, industry, transportation, agriculture, construction, mining, and more).

What excites you most about the future of green technologies and their potential to redefine industries?

The new world will be based on a low-carbon economy, one that takes the environment into much greater consideration. It will produce biodegradable, long-lasting products made from new materials that do not require mining or destruction. This world will be cleaner, more balanced, and healthier. It will distribute wealth more fairly, reduce inequality, and enhance physical security, safety, personal leisure, and the pace of price decreases. This is where we are headed—slowly, but surely.

Dive deeper into impactful innovations in environmental sustainability on Impaakt.co

[comicbookclub]

The Ultimates #8 Review: Crisis On Ultimate Earths

A heady and action-filled issue heightens the stakes in Ultimates #8. Read our review, here.

The Ultimates is at its best when it focuses on a specific character — i.e., the excellent Hawkeye issue, or the one focused on She-Hulk — while mixing palpable and timely societal issues with big superheroics. But every few issues, the series takes the time to amp up the stakes considerably… And that’s what we get here in Marvel’s The Ultimates #8, as the Ultimate Guardians of the Galaxy…

[comicbookclublive]

The Ultimates #8 Review: Crisis On Ultimate Earths

A heady and action-filled issue heightens the stakes in Ultimates #8. Read our review, here.

The Ultimates is at its best when it focuses on a specific character — i.e., the excellent Hawkeye issue, or the one focused on She-Hulk — while mixing palpable and timely societal issues with big superheroics. But every few issues, the series takes the time to amp up the stakes considerably… And that’s what we get here in Marvel’s The Ultimates #8, as the Ultimate Guardians of the Galaxy…

[thetimelordbatgirl]

Since you’re Adrien’s salter, you will die from laugh after reading this text that my friend has wrote:

“That said let's tackle Adrien being 'perfect' first. I know the show and creator use that word a lot but it is very clear in the show that ... He's not. He makes mistakes, he gets *called out* for his mistakes, he gets upset, he apologizes. He's not perfect”.

“Marinette makes mistakes too, but they are always framed as best intentions. At the end of any disagreement she is the one in the right. Her pain is always the focus/valid one in any situation. S5 amped this up to the point I call it 'Poor Mari' when it happens. Any emotional situation must make you sympathize with Marinette first and often only. It doesn't matter what or who is involved. The entire Agreste Arc has been summed up by the emotional impact *Adrien's family being the villains and his father dying* have on *Marinette* not Adrien. Marinette gets the sympathy for someone else's crisis. How weird is that? It's not even that she did anything wrong (before the lie) but no one else seems to be allowed to experience more emotion than she does, no matter the situation”.

I mean....I'd agree that the Agreste arc ultimately didn't have anything to do with Adrien, he's just there in the end for it, but that's nothing really to do with Marinette, that's just the writers- mainly Thomas Astruc- assuming girl power means you can't balance in anything for a male character whose there for the ride with the female lead and not bothering with Adrien's writing as a result.

However the first paragraph....yeah not gonna lie, gonna need where Adrien actually realizes his mistakes or is called out for them and apologizes for them. Because last I checked, he still has yet to acknowledge he's the one who caused Copycat back in season one, Ladybug still to season six believing that incident was her fault when it wasn't, he still has yet to question how far he's willing to go for a crush when wanting someone to get akumatized just to see Ladybug and do we get started on the episode Kuro Neko??? He still has yet to fully acknowledge his issues from that episode, aka not showing up for fights and yet getting jealous when Ladybug has to call on for help as a result and the fact that the episode shames Ladybug for...not waiting around for someone whose lazy ass had to be motivated for a fight by Plagg and therefore letting akuma's run amok via Plagg having a go at her is just...no. And this is all me not even acknowledging how he has yet to apologize for ANY creepy interaction with Ladybug, because those arent even mistakes, those are just pure harassing a girl in the vain hope she'll cave.

[enterprisewired]

China Lowers Lending Rates Amid Economic Challenges

Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com

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Beijing takes action to stimulate demand and boost growth

Major Rate Cuts by PBOC

On Monday, China’s central bank, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), announced a reduction in its main benchmark lending rates by 25 basis points during the monthly fixing. The one-year loan prime rate (LPR), which influences corporate and most household loans, was lowered to 3.1%, while the five-year LPR, the benchmark for mortgage rates, was cut to 3.6%. These changes signal China’s continued efforts to stimulate its sluggish economy through monetary policy adjustments.

This move had been widely anticipated after PBOC Governor Pan Gongsheng hinted at a possible rate reduction during a recent forum in Beijing. He noted that the central bank was likely to lower the loan prime rates by 20 to 25 basis points. This reduction follows similar cuts in previous months and is part of a broader strategy to address ongoing economic challenges, including a persistent property crisis and weak consumer confidence.

Analysis: Stimulus and Economic Strategy

The PBOC’s decision to cut Lending rates is part of a larger monetary stimulus plan aimed at stabilizing China’s economy. Along with the LPR cuts, Governor Pan also mentioned the potential for further reductions in the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) by 25 to 50 basis points by the end of the year, depending on liquidity needs. Additional measures, including a 20-basis-point cut to the seven-day reverse repurchase rate and a 30-basis-point reduction in the medium-term lending facility rate, were highlighted during his speech.

While the rate cuts are a positive step, experts believe more substantial measures are needed. Shane Oliver, chief economist at AMP, emphasized that lowering the cost of borrowing alone might not be enough to stimulate significant growth. He stressed that China’s real challenge lies in a lack of demand, calling for more aggressive fiscal stimulus to complement the monetary adjustments. Zhiwei Zhang, president of Pinpoint Asset Management, echoed this sentiment, arguing that despite the recent cuts, China’s real interest Lending rates remain too high. He expects additional rate reductions in 2024 as the U.S. Federal Reserve begins to lower its own rates.

Context: China’s Economic Landscape

China’s latest move to cut lending rates comes after a series of measures taken by the PBOC to support its economy, which has been grappling with multiple crises, including a prolonged slump in the property market. Last month, the central bank lowered the RRR by 50 basis points, releasing liquidity into the banking system to help ease financial pressures. These efforts are aimed at boosting consumer spending and investment, as the world’s second-largest economy struggles to regain its footing.

Recent economic data provides a mixed picture. While China’s third-quarter GDP growth of 4.6% year-on-year was slightly better than expected, the overall sentiment remains cautious. Retail sales and industrial production figures for September also exceeded forecasts, offering some hope. However, experts believe that without stronger demand and more comprehensive fiscal support, China’s economic recovery may remain slow.

The PBOC’s recent actions, including the latest rate cuts, reflect its commitment to stabilizing the economy. However, the road to recovery remains uncertain, with many calling for a balanced approach that includes both monetary and fiscal policy initiatives to address the underlying structural issues.

[ao3feed-brucewayne]

授翻/迪克中心/H&amp;CSpyraling Out Of Control

by NorthLiang37 迪克·格雷森没指望他回到哥谭市会���松，但他没意识到，在间谍组织卧底后想要重新赢得家人的信任会有多难。 ——“我连续几周给你打电话！”迪克几乎要哭出来了，他几乎从不让人看到他这样。“我每天早上都打电话给你；我求你让我回家！”他尖叫道。“你知道我过了多久才放弃吗？我过了多久才意识到你们根本不在乎我是死是活？” 布鲁斯无力地摇了摇头。“那不是——我确实在乎——” “八十七天，”迪克愤怒地说，强忍着情绪，不愿让布鲁斯看到他崩溃的样子。“我试着给你打了八十七天的电话。我花了那么长时间才意识到你不会回来找我。我只能独自找出下一步该怎么做，而且不能在这个过程中死去。但嘿，至少如果我死了，也没人会真的在乎，因为你让他们以为我已经死了。” Words: 16138, Chapters: 1/1, Language: 中文-普通话 國語 Fandoms: DCU (Comics), Batman - All Media Types Rating: Not Rated Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Characters: Dick Grayson, Bruce Wayne, Midnighter (DCU), Jason Todd, Tim Drake (DCU), Damian Wayne Additional Tags: Implied/Referenced Mind Control, Returning from the Dead, Sibling Bonding, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - PTSD, Dick Grayson Has PTSD, Angst, Happy Ending, Angst with a Happy Ending, Bruce Wayne is Bad at Communicating, Bruce Wayne Has Issues, Bruce Wayne is Bad at Relationships, Existential Crisis, Helena Bertinelli - Freeform, Matron, Dick calls Damian Dami, Bat Family road trip, Darkish Dick Grayson, Damian is supportive, Dick Grayson Needs a Hug, Post Spyral Dick Grayson, Broken Dick Grayson via https://ift.tt/TFcuLgC