<p>Europe's heavy-lift rocket Ariane-5 completed its final launch in July 2023 by lifting two telecoms satellites into space. Now, the new European-built Ariane 6 rocket is gearing up for its mission for its first test flight ever. In an exciting development, the rocket has cleared a major full-scale rehearsal on Friday (Nov 24).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ariane 6 rocket was developed by Arianespace on behalf of the European Space Agency. As part of the trial, the ground teams completed the launch countdown. It was followed by a 7-minute full firing of the core stage’s engine.</p>

<p>Everything went just as it would transpire if fired for an actual launch into space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-conflict-risks-lasting-to-2030-without-peace-talks-says-slovak-pm-662531">Ukraine war: Conflict risks lasting to 2030 without peace talks, says Slovak PM</a></p>

<p>Things went as per plan, which included plans for not igniting boosters. This was done to ensure that Ariane 6 stayed on the launch pad at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The engine-fire trial reenacts how the Ariane 6 core stage will fire during a normal flight into space. Once complete the main engine would shut down and the core stage would separate from the upper stage, which would then take over propulsion and complete its mission," European Space Agency said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-release-13-israeli-hostages-12-thai-nationals-amid-truce-in-gaza-662502">Hamas releases 24 hostages amid temporary truce in Gaza</a></p>

<h2><strong>What did the trial include?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A test model was used for the trial, which was the longest ‘full-stack' run yet for Ariane 6’s lower liquid propulsion module with a Vulcain 2.1 engine.</p>

<p>Speaking over the trial, ESA’s Director General Josef Aschbacher said, “The teams from ArianeGroup, CNES and ESA have now run through every step of the rocket's flight without it leaving Earth."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hostages-release-israels-hostage-for-prisoner-swap-662497">Hostages release: Israel's hostage-for-prisoner swap</a></strong></p>

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<p>He termed the successful trial a "milestone" because it came after humongous efforts being put in every aspect of the mission right from&nbsp;designing and planning to preparing and building.</p>

<p>The mission included hard work of some of the most talented space engineers in Europe. "We are back on track towards resecuring Europe’s autonomous access to space. Well done to all involved!”&nbsp;Aschbacher said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Vulcain 2.1 engine</strong></h2>

<p>Nearly 150 tonnes of propellant were used in the Vulcain 2.1 engine in the Ariane 6 core stage tanks – liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. The liquid hydrogen tank was supercooled to temperatures below -250°C.</p>

<p>The earlier Ariane 5 touted as Europe's most successful launch system to date used&nbsp;Vulcain 2 engine. The current mission&nbsp;Ariane 6 uses an advanced version - Vulcain 2.1.</p>

<p>"The upgrade has a simplified and cheaper design, and new technology in the engine nozzle and ignition system has been moved from the engine to the launch pad structure, to make the stage perform better and cost less," as per ESA.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Europe's heavy-lift rocket Ariane-5 completed its final launch in July 2023 by lifting two telecoms satellites into space. Now, the new European-built Ariane 6 rocket is gearing up for its mission for its first test flight ever.

Europe's heavy-lift rocket Ariane-5 completed its final launch in July 2023 by lifting two telecoms satellites into space. Now, the new European-built Ariane 6 rocket is gearing up for its mission for its first test flight ever. In an exciting development, the rocket has cleared a major full-scale rehearsal on Friday (Nov 24). The Ariane 6 rocket was developed by Arianespace on behalf of the European Space Agency. As part of the trial, the ground teams completed the launch countdown. It was followed by a 7-minute full firing of the core stage’s engine. Everything went just as it would transpire if fired for an actual launch into space. Also Read | Ukraine war: Conflict risks lasting to 2030 without peace talks, says Slovak PM Things went as per plan, which included plans for not igniting boosters. This was done to ensure that Ariane 6 stayed on the launch pad at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. "The engine-fire trial reenacts how the Ariane 6 core stage will fire during a normal flight into space. Once complete the main engine would shut down and the core stage would separate from the upper stage, which would then take over propulsion and complete its mission," European Space Agency said. Also Read | Hamas releases 24 hostages amid temporary truce in Gaza What did the trial include? A test model was used for the trial, which was the longest ‘full-stack' run yet for Ariane 6’s lower liquid propulsion module with a Vulcain 2.1 engine. Speaking over the trial, ESA’s Director General Josef Aschbacher said, “The teams from ArianeGroup, CNES and ESA have now run through every step of the rocket's flight without it leaving Earth." Watch | Hostages release: Israel's hostage-for-prisoner swap × He termed the successful trial a "milestone" because it came after humongous efforts being put in every aspect of the mission right from designing and planning to preparing and building. The mission included hard work of some of the most talented space engineers in Europe. "We are back on track towards resecuring Europe’s autonomous access to space. Well done to all involved!” Aschbacher said. Vulcain 2.1 engine Nearly 150 tonnes of propellant were used in the Vulcain 2.1 engine in the Ariane 6 core stage tanks – liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. The liquid hydrogen tank was supercooled to temperatures below -250°C. The earlier Ariane 5 touted as Europe's most successful launch system to date used Vulcain 2 engine. The current mission Ariane 6 uses an advanced version - Vulcain 2.1. "The upgrade has a simplified and cheaper design, and new technology in the engine nozzle and ignition system has been moved from the engine to the launch pad structure, to make the stage perform better and cost less," as per ESA. (With inputs from agencies)

Europe’s new Ariane 6 rocket successfully clears ‘major full-scale’ trial

In the Euro zone, the economy is flirting with recession. While economic activity marginally improved in November, consumers are cutting down on spending. this could eventually lead to the economy contracting in the coming weeks.

Economy on track to contract in October-December quarter | World Business Watch

<p>A new study has found that extreme heat may have caused 70,000 excess deaths in Europe in 2022. The scientists at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) revised their earlier estimate of 61,000 after making changes to their framework for measuring heat-related mortality.</p>

<p>The researchers said the previous framework took into account the weekly data but now they were relying on daily data.</p>

<p>The new framework is based on daily temperatures and mortality records from 147 regions in 16 European countries.</p>

<h2><strong>2022: Second-hottest year for Europe</strong></h2>

<p>According to Copernicus, the EU’s earth observation programme, the year 2022 saw Europe witness the second-hottest year on record, with temperature around 0.9C above average and summer temperature at 1.4C above average.</p>

<p>Earlier, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and Copernicus said in a joint statement that Europe is the world’s fastest-warming continent, warming twice as much as the global average since the 1980s.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-the-cerberus-heatwave-which-is-boiling-europe-616230"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;What is the Cerberus heatwave which is boiling Europe?</strong></a></p>

<p>“The record-breaking heat stress that Europeans experienced in 2022 was one of the main drivers of weather-related excess deaths in Europe,” said Dr Carlo Buontempo, the director of the Copernicus Climate Change Service in a June statement.</p>

<p>“Our current understanding of the climate system and its evolution informs us that these kinds of events are part of a pattern that will make heat stress extremes more frequent and more intense across the region,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Heat-related deaths to become annual phenomenon</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, researchers at ISGlobal and Inserm said in July that Europe could see as many as 68,000 heat-related excess deaths each year by 2030.</p>

<p>By 2040, the figure could further swell to 94,000, unless global governments take radical steps to check the carbon emissions.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Death toll rises as Europe suffers third heatwave</strong></p>

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<p>There are “improvements in the quality of houses, the insulation, ventilation and also a more clever design of cities. These among many others are tools at various different levels that could be implemented to reduce to increase resilience and reduce the impacts,” said Joan Ballester Claramunt, a researcher at ISGlobal.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A new study has found that extreme heat may have caused 70,000 excess deaths in Europe in 2022. The scientists at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) revised their earlier estimate of 61,000 after making changes to their framework for measuring heat-related mortality.

A new study has found that extreme heat may have caused 70,000 excess deaths in Europe in 2022. The scientists at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) revised their earlier estimate of 61,000 after making changes to their framework for measuring heat-related mortality. The researchers said the previous framework took into account the weekly data but now they were relying on daily data. The new framework is based on daily temperatures and mortality records from 147 regions in 16 European countries. 2022: Second-hottest year for Europe According to Copernicus, the EU’s earth observation programme, the year 2022 saw Europe witness the second-hottest year on record, with temperature around 0.9C above average and summer temperature at 1.4C above average. Earlier, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and Copernicus said in a joint statement that Europe is the world’s fastest-warming continent, warming twice as much as the global average since the 1980s. Also read: What is the Cerberus heatwave which is boiling Europe? “The record-breaking heat stress that Europeans experienced in 2022 was one of the main drivers of weather-related excess deaths in Europe,” said Dr Carlo Buontempo, the director of the Copernicus Climate Change Service in a June statement. “Our current understanding of the climate system and its evolution informs us that these kinds of events are part of a pattern that will make heat stress extremes more frequent and more intense across the region,” he added. Heat-related deaths to become annual phenomenon Earlier, researchers at ISGlobal and Inserm said in July that Europe could see as many as 68,000 heat-related excess deaths each year by 2030. By 2040, the figure could further swell to 94,000, unless global governments take radical steps to check the carbon emissions. Watch: Death toll rises as Europe suffers third heatwave × There are “improvements in the quality of houses, the insulation, ventilation and also a more clever design of cities. These among many others are tools at various different levels that could be implemented to reduce to increase resilience and reduce the impacts,” said Joan Ballester Claramunt, a researcher at ISGlobal. (With inputs from agencies)

Extreme heat caused 70,000 excess deaths in Europe in 2022: Study

<p>European Space Agency’s (ESA) Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) probe will use double gravity assist, for the first time ever, from Earth and Moon to propel itself towards Jupiter. The gas giant-bound spacecraft was launched earlier this year, to study the planet as well as its three icy and potentially ocean-bearing moons – Ganymede, Callisto and Europa.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Setting the stage</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, the JUICE probe performed what the ESA described as its “largest and most important manoeuvres in its eight-year journey to Jupiter.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The manoeuvre was a 43-minute burn using its main engine and around 10 per cent of the probe’s entire fuel reserve to change its orbit around the Sun ahead of its flyby and set the stage for next summer’s Earth-Moon double gravity assist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This manoeuvre used up roughly 363 kilograms of fuel – or almost exactly 10% of the 3,650 kilograms of fuel that JUICE was launched with,” Julia Schwartz, Flight Dynamics Engineer at ESA’s ESOC mission control centre in Germany, said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-get-the-dope-on-juice-europes-mission-to-find-aliens-582516">Explained | Get the dope on JUICE, Europe’s mission to find aliens</a></strong></p>

<p>The move on November 17, marked the first of a two-part manoeuvre, which is a first-of-its-kind flyby where the probe will first pass by the Moon to gain momentum and make the flyby Earth a day and a half later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This first burn did 95% of the work, changing Juice’s velocity by almost 200 m/s,” Schwartz added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ESA scientist explained that given that JUICE is among the heaviest interplanetary spacecraft ever launched with a total weight of around 6000 kg, “it took a lot of force and a lot of fuel to achieve this.”</p>

<p>Gravity assist is a technique by which a spacecraft, with the help of the gravitational field of a planet, gets a speed boost.</p>

<p>However, it is tricky to do so, to execute a gravity assist, the spacecraft needs to pass through the planet’s gravitational field at a carefully calibrated exact point in order to get a “slingshot effect.”</p>

<p>This means that JUICE would have to arrive at the Earth-Moon system at precisely the correct time, and speed and be travelling in the correct direction.</p>

<h2><strong>What’s next?</strong></h2>

<p>While most of the work is done, the next step involves a second, much smaller manoeuvre which is necessary to put JUICE on the right trajectory for the Earth-Moon gravity assist. “Splitting the manoeuvre into two parts allows us to use the second firing of the engine to iron out any inaccuracies of the first,” the ESA engineer explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/esa-juice-mission-delayed-by-24-hours-due-to-bad-weather-582177">ESA JUICE mission delayed by 24 hours due to bad weather</a></strong></p>

<p>A much smaller manoeuvre would also be executed using Juice’s smaller thrusters in May 2024 for the final fine-tuning of the probe’s trajectory during its approach to Earth, said the ESA.</p>

<h2><strong>About the JUICE mission</strong></h2>

<p>ESA successfully launched its JUICE spacecraft from its spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on April 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p>JUICE aims to make detailed observations of the giant gas planet and its three large ocean-bearing moons and is equipped with remote sensing, geophysical and in situ instruments, but given the distance between the home planet and the gas giant, it won’t be able to do so before 2031.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


European Space Agency’s (ESA) Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) probe will use double gravity assist, for the first time ever, from Earth and Moon to propel itself towards Jupiter.

European Space Agency’s (ESA) Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) probe will use double gravity assist, for the first time ever, from Earth and Moon to propel itself towards Jupiter. The gas giant-bound spacecraft was launched earlier this year, to study the planet as well as its three icy and potentially ocean-bearing moons – Ganymede, Callisto and Europa. Setting the stage Last week, the JUICE probe performed what the ESA described as its “largest and most important manoeuvres in its eight-year journey to Jupiter.” The manoeuvre was a 43-minute burn using its main engine and around 10 per cent of the probe’s entire fuel reserve to change its orbit around the Sun ahead of its flyby and set the stage for next summer’s Earth-Moon double gravity assist. “This manoeuvre used up roughly 363 kilograms of fuel – or almost exactly 10% of the 3,650 kilograms of fuel that JUICE was launched with,” Julia Schwartz, Flight Dynamics Engineer at ESA’s ESOC mission control centre in Germany, said in a statement. ALSO READ | Explained | Get the dope on JUICE, Europe’s mission to find aliens The move on November 17, marked the first of a two-part manoeuvre, which is a first-of-its-kind flyby where the probe will first pass by the Moon to gain momentum and make the flyby Earth a day and a half later. “This first burn did 95% of the work, changing Juice’s velocity by almost 200 m/s,” Schwartz added. The ESA scientist explained that given that JUICE is among the heaviest interplanetary spacecraft ever launched with a total weight of around 6000 kg, “it took a lot of force and a lot of fuel to achieve this.” Gravity assist is a technique by which a spacecraft, with the help of the gravitational field of a planet, gets a speed boost. However, it is tricky to do so, to execute a gravity assist, the spacecraft needs to pass through the planet’s gravitational field at a carefully calibrated exact point in order to get a “slingshot effect.” This means that JUICE would have to arrive at the Earth-Moon system at precisely the correct time, and speed and be travelling in the correct direction. What’s next? While most of the work is done, the next step involves a second, much smaller manoeuvre which is necessary to put JUICE on the right trajectory for the Earth-Moon gravity assist. “Splitting the manoeuvre into two parts allows us to use the second firing of the engine to iron out any inaccuracies of the first,” the ESA engineer explained. ALSO READ | ESA JUICE mission delayed by 24 hours due to bad weather A much smaller manoeuvre would also be executed using Juice’s smaller thrusters in May 2024 for the final fine-tuning of the probe’s trajectory during its approach to Earth, said the ESA. About the JUICE mission ESA successfully launched its JUICE spacecraft from its spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on April 14. JUICE aims to make detailed observations of the giant gas planet and its three large ocean-bearing moons and is equipped with remote sensing, geophysical and in situ instruments, but given the distance between the home planet and the gas giant, it won’t be able to do so before 2031. (With inputs from agencies)

Europe’s JUICE probe set to use first-ever ‘double gravity assist’ from Earth and Moon for launch to Jupiter

<p>Scientists have discovered "megabeds" from ancient volcanic eruptions at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea, showing the evidence of several millennia of catastrophic events that hit the region in every few thousand years.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are Megabeds?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Megabeds refer to deposits of substances formed in marine basins due to events of catastrophic nature such as the volcanic eruptions.</p>

<p>The researchers found these beds while probing the deposits at the bottom of the Tyrrhenian Sea, close to a large underwater volcano. The Tyrrhenian&nbsp;Sea is part of the Mediterranean Sea off the western coast of Italy.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-company-managing-white-island-volcano-that-killed-22-held-guilty-653367">New Zealand White Island volcano eruption: Company managing site guilty in tragedy that killed 22</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Earlier, research in the area into sediment deposits had showed the presence of something hidden beneath the ocean.</p>

<p>But in a new study published in the journal Geology, the high-resolution images of the deposits showed the megabeds.</p>

<p>The lead study author Derek Sawyer, associate professor of Earth sciences at The Ohio State University, and colleagues created higher-resolution images of the layers of sediment and discovered a succession of four megabeds, each between 33 and 82 feet (10 to 25 metres) thick, and each separated by distinct layers of sediments.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eurasias-highest-volcano-erupts-sending-8-miles-high-ash-above-a-russian-peninsula-654183">Satellite image of Russia's highest volcano spewing ash will leave you amazed</a></strong></p>

<p>The cores that were drilled out of the site showed the megabeds that were made of the volcanic material. According to the study published in the Geology journal, the oldest layer was found to be around 40,000 years old, the next oldest was 32,000 years old, and the third was 18,000 years old. The youngest sediment core was&nbsp;formed about 8,000 years ago.</p>

<h2><strong>But how are these remnants of volcanic eruptions?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the results of the study published in the Geology journal, the team of researchers looked at known volcanic activity in the region to determine the source of the megabeds.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Explainer: Climate change and volcanic eruptions</strong></p>

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<p>The region where the beds formed is extremely active volcanically and includes the Campi Flegrei supervolcano, which has been acting recently.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The findings are expected to help scientists understand the risk posed by volcanoes in the region. "That whole field is still active, there's still a lot of concern about the future of that, so it's certainly potentially possible that it could happen again," Derek Sawyer said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scientists have discovered "megabeds" from ancient volcanic eruptions at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea, showing the evidence of several millennia of catastrophic events that hit the region in every few thousand years.

Scientists have discovered "megabeds" from ancient volcanic eruptions at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea, showing the evidence of several millennia of catastrophic events that hit the region in every few thousand years. What are Megabeds? Megabeds refer to deposits of substances formed in marine basins due to events of catastrophic nature such as the volcanic eruptions. The researchers found these beds while probing the deposits at the bottom of the Tyrrhenian Sea, close to a large underwater volcano. The Tyrrhenian Sea is part of the Mediterranean Sea off the western coast of Italy. Also read | New Zealand White Island volcano eruption: Company managing site guilty in tragedy that killed 22 Earlier, research in the area into sediment deposits had showed the presence of something hidden beneath the ocean. But in a new study published in the journal Geology, the high-resolution images of the deposits showed the megabeds. The lead study author Derek Sawyer, associate professor of Earth sciences at The Ohio State University, and colleagues created higher-resolution images of the layers of sediment and discovered a succession of four megabeds, each between 33 and 82 feet (10 to 25 metres) thick, and each separated by distinct layers of sediments. Also read | Satellite image of Russia's highest volcano spewing ash will leave you amazed The cores that were drilled out of the site showed the megabeds that were made of the volcanic material. According to the study published in the Geology journal, the oldest layer was found to be around 40,000 years old, the next oldest was 32,000 years old, and the third was 18,000 years old. The youngest sediment core was formed about 8,000 years ago. But how are these remnants of volcanic eruptions? According to the results of the study published in the Geology journal, the team of researchers looked at known volcanic activity in the region to determine the source of the megabeds. Also watch | Explainer: Climate change and volcanic eruptions × The region where the beds formed is extremely active volcanically and includes the Campi Flegrei supervolcano, which has been acting recently. What does it mean? The findings are expected to help scientists understand the risk posed by volcanoes in the region. "That whole field is still active, there's still a lot of concern about the future of that, so it's certainly potentially possible that it could happen again," Derek Sawyer said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Europe witnesses catastrophic events every 10,000-15,000 years, supervolcano megabeds reveal

In a major environmental triumph, the European Union has not only met but surpassed its climate goals. A 5.3% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions has been recorded in the second quarter of 2023.

EU sees 5.3% plunge in Q2 greenhouse gas emissions

<p>GHGSat, a Canadian emissions monitoring company, on Saturday (Nov 11) successfully launched the Vanguard satellite from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This satellite marks a significant step in detecting carbon dioxide emissions from individual facilities such as coal plants and steel mills from space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The climate change crisis is significantly propelled by various industrial activities that contribute to the release of greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. At a time like this, space-age technology is being increasingly leveraged to place accountability with these polluting industries, a Reuters report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>GHGSat's data, gathered by Vanguard, is also available for purchase by industrial emitters who are seeking to reduce their emissions. In addition to this, even governments and scientists can access this valuable information which can play a pivotal role in addressing the impending climate crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-air-defenders-shot-down-russian-missiles-as-kyiv-pounded-for-first-attack-in-months-657697">Ukraine's air defenders shot down Russian missiles as Kyiv pounded for first attack in months</a></p>

<p>This new satellite is a new addition to&nbsp;Vanguard's network of satellites dedicated to identifying methane plumes.</p>

<p>The satellite plays a crucial role as methane is an invisible greenhouse gas challenging to detect. It is because of its leakage from various small sources like pipelines, farms, and&nbsp;drill sites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, the earth's atmosphere traps heat and contributes to the greenhouse effect, which leads to global warming and climate change.</p>

<p>Existing satellites monitoring carbon dioxide in the atmosphere do not focus on facility-level emissions, according to GHGSat.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/heart-benefits-not-solely-due-to-weight-loss-drug-maker-novo-on-its-popular-wegovy-obesity-treatment-657689">Heart benefits not solely due to weight loss: Drug maker Novo on its popular Wegovy obesity treatment</a></p>

<h2><strong>Vanguard to validate practices&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Stephane Germain, CEO of Montreal-based GHGSat, highlighted that the data collected by Vanguard will validate common practices of monitoring and measuring carbon dioxide emissions.</p>

<p>"Often what we find is a mix of direct measurements and estimates - therefore having a direct measurement of the entire facility from a satellite will act as a validation," Germain reportedly said during an interview.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hamas-fighters-battle-israeli-forces-in-southern-israel-657651">Israel-Palestine war: Hamas fighters battle Israeli forces in southern Israel</a></strong></p>

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<p>GHGSat has said that the data collected by the Vanguard satellite will play a crucial role in enhancing the precision of government emissions inventories and scientific modelling.</p>

<p>By directly measuring carbon dioxide emissions from individual facilities, this information is expected to provide a more comprehensive and reliable understanding of the sources and levels of greenhouse gas emissions and also check for corporate greenhouse gas reporting for investors.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


GHGSat, a Canadian emissions monitoring company, on Saturday (Nov 11) successfully launched the Vanguard satellite from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

GHGSat, a Canadian emissions monitoring company, on Saturday (Nov 11) successfully launched the Vanguard satellite from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This satellite marks a significant step in detecting carbon dioxide emissions from individual facilities such as coal plants and steel mills from space. The climate change crisis is significantly propelled by various industrial activities that contribute to the release of greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. At a time like this, space-age technology is being increasingly leveraged to place accountability with these polluting industries, a Reuters report said. GHGSat's data, gathered by Vanguard, is also available for purchase by industrial emitters who are seeking to reduce their emissions. In addition to this, even governments and scientists can access this valuable information which can play a pivotal role in addressing the impending climate crisis. Also Read | Ukraine's air defenders shot down Russian missiles as Kyiv pounded for first attack in months This new satellite is a new addition to Vanguard's network of satellites dedicated to identifying methane plumes. The satellite plays a crucial role as methane is an invisible greenhouse gas challenging to detect. It is because of its leakage from various small sources like pipelines, farms, and drill sites. With the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, the earth's atmosphere traps heat and contributes to the greenhouse effect, which leads to global warming and climate change. Existing satellites monitoring carbon dioxide in the atmosphere do not focus on facility-level emissions, according to GHGSat. Also Read | Heart benefits not solely due to weight loss: Drug maker Novo on its popular Wegovy obesity treatment Vanguard to validate practices Stephane Germain, CEO of Montreal-based GHGSat, highlighted that the data collected by Vanguard will validate common practices of monitoring and measuring carbon dioxide emissions. "Often what we find is a mix of direct measurements and estimates - therefore having a direct measurement of the entire facility from a satellite will act as a validation," Germain reportedly said during an interview. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hamas fighters battle Israeli forces in southern Israel × GHGSat has said that the data collected by the Vanguard satellite will play a crucial role in enhancing the precision of government emissions inventories and scientific modelling. By directly measuring carbon dioxide emissions from individual facilities, this information is expected to provide a more comprehensive and reliable understanding of the sources and levels of greenhouse gas emissions and also check for corporate greenhouse gas reporting for investors. (With inputs from agencies)

Vanguard satellite to detect carbon dioxide emissions from coal plants, other facilities

The European Space Agency (ESA) released the first full-color images of the cosmos taken by the Euclid space mission's telescope.

European Space Agency released first images taken by Euclid's telescope

To expand its military presence in eastern Libya a Bloomberg report says that the plan could lead to a naval base giving Russia a significant foothold on Europe's Southern doorstep.

Russia building on inroads made by Wagner

The flooded streets battered homes and severed communication lines storm Ciaran is smashed into Northwestern Europe. Unleashing some strong winds and heavy rains the storm was driven by the powerful jet stream that swept in from the Atlantic it had already caused heavy flooding in Northern Ireland and parts of Britain. Now Ciaran hit northern and western France uprooting trees and also blowing out windows.

Deadly storm Ciaran strikes north Europe, seven dead | People evacuated to hotels overnight | WION

Reports: Storm Ciaran kills two in Belgium

Storm Ciaran has smashed into northwestern Europe, unleashing strong winds and heavy rain. The storm hit Northern And Western France, uprooting trees and blowing out windows. At least one death in Paris was confirmed. 1.2 million French households were left without electricity, and schools, airports, and rail and ferry services were closed.

Gravitas: Storm Ciaran lashes Europe with fierce winds & heavy rain

<p>The European Central Bank (ECB) has made a significant attempt towards introducing a digital version of the euro, a move that aims to provide secure and free electronic payment options for citizens across the Eurozone. The ECB has officially announced that a two-year "preparation phase" for the digital euro will commence on November 1.</p>

<p>During this period, the ECB will finalise regulations, select private-sector partners, and engage in testing and experimentation, paving the way for potential issuance and rollout of the digital currency in the future.</p>

<p>While this announcement marks the initial steps in a multi-year project, it sets the ECB ahead of other central banks from the Group of Seven (G7) nations and may serve as a blueprint for others to follow. Several Caribbean countries and Nigeria have already launched digital currencies, while China and Sweden have conducted pilot projects in this realm. In contrast, central banks like the Federal Reserve, the Bank of England, and the Bank of Canada have displayed more cautious approaches towards such initiatives.</p>

<p>The digital euro, once implemented, will function much like any online wallet or bank account, with the distinctive feature of being free to use and backed by the ECB, ensuring its safety. Nonetheless, the project faces criticism from various quarters, including bankers, regulators, some academics, the European Union’s privacy watchdog, and specific consumer groups. Their concerns revolve around the fear that digital currency might drain deposits from the commercial sector and offer limited improvements compared to existing accounts. Reuters cited Markus Ferber, a German member of the European Parliament, who remarked that the ECB has yet to effectively communicate the added value of the digital euro.</p>

<p>To address apprehensions regarding the impact on commercial banks, the ECB intends to place a cap on individual ownership of digital euros, likely around 3,000 euros. The ECB views the digital euro as a means to introduce competition into the payment market, which is currently dominated by U.S. credit card companies.</p>

<p>Similar to physical cash, digital euros will allow users to make small offline payments in close proximity to recipients, and the ECB emphasises that it will not retain transaction data. The digital euro will be distributed by the ECB, commercial banks, and digital wallet providers, but it will be accessible only to residents of the Eurozone and its overseas citizens, addressing concerns about adoption in countries with weaker local currencies.</p>

<p>The push for digital currencies among central banks is gaining momentum. Central banks representing a fifth of the world's population are expected to introduce their own digital currencies within the next three years, according to a survey by the Bank for International Settlements. While such projects began to gain prominence in 2019, the rise of stablecoins, crypto tokens backed to some extent by traditional currencies, has rejuvenated the momentum of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)</em></p>

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The European Central Bank (ECB) has made a significant attempt towards introducing a digital version of the euro, a move that aims to provide secure and free electronic payment options for citizens across the Eurozone.

The European Central Bank (ECB) has made a significant attempt towards introducing a digital version of the euro, a move that aims to provide secure and free electronic payment options for citizens across the Eurozone. The ECB has officially announced that a two-year "preparation phase" for the digital euro will commence on November 1. During this period, the ECB will finalise regulations, select private-sector partners, and engage in testing and experimentation, paving the way for potential issuance and rollout of the digital currency in the future. While this announcement marks the initial steps in a multi-year project, it sets the ECB ahead of other central banks from the Group of Seven (G7) nations and may serve as a blueprint for others to follow. Several Caribbean countries and Nigeria have already launched digital currencies, while China and Sweden have conducted pilot projects in this realm. In contrast, central banks like the Federal Reserve, the Bank of England, and the Bank of Canada have displayed more cautious approaches towards such initiatives. The digital euro, once implemented, will function much like any online wallet or bank account, with the distinctive feature of being free to use and backed by the ECB, ensuring its safety. Nonetheless, the project faces criticism from various quarters, including bankers, regulators, some academics, the European Union’s privacy watchdog, and specific consumer groups. Their concerns revolve around the fear that digital currency might drain deposits from the commercial sector and offer limited improvements compared to existing accounts. Reuters cited Markus Ferber, a German member of the European Parliament, who remarked that the ECB has yet to effectively communicate the added value of the digital euro. To address apprehensions regarding the impact on commercial banks, the ECB intends to place a cap on individual ownership of digital euros, likely around 3,000 euros. The ECB views the digital euro as a means to introduce competition into the payment market, which is currently dominated by U.S. credit card companies. Similar to physical cash, digital euros will allow users to make small offline payments in close proximity to recipients, and the ECB emphasises that it will not retain transaction data. The digital euro will be distributed by the ECB, commercial banks, and digital wallet providers, but it will be accessible only to residents of the Eurozone and its overseas citizens, addressing concerns about adoption in countries with weaker local currencies. The push for digital currencies among central banks is gaining momentum. Central banks representing a fifth of the world's population are expected to introduce their own digital currencies within the next three years, according to a survey by the Bank for International Settlements. While such projects began to gain prominence in 2019, the rise of stablecoins, crypto tokens backed to some extent by traditional currencies, has rejuvenated the momentum of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

ECB initiates two-year preparation phase for digital euro: Report

<p>A study conducted by an international team of scientists led by the University of Hong Kong found that the epicentre of the deadly bird flu outbreaks moved to Europe and Africa from Asia. The findings of the research published in the journal, Nature on Wednesday (Oct 18) also suggest that the strain currently circulating worldwide has become increasingly infectious among wild birds.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the study conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>The international team of researchers analysed the outbreaks of the H5N1 which has been classified as a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus given the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/current-avian-flu-strain-deadlier-may-become-endemic-study-584384">high death toll</a> in poultry. It was said to have been first detected in birds in China back in 1996.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists studied the outbreaks between 2005 and 2022 and used the data on confirmed cases from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).&nbsp;</p>

<p>They have attributed the current outbreak to a highly infectious variant of H5N1 which is becoming increasingly infectious to wild birds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also caused Europe’s worst bird flu outbreak, before spreading globally. This strain has reportedly reached every continent except Oceania and Antarctica.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What was found?</h2>

<p>The bird flu viruses which typically emerged from Asia for 25 years had not undergone any major change but their spread among wild birds indicates that the outbreaks are shifting, said the study.</p>

<p>The current strain first emerged in Europe in 2020.&nbsp;Around that time researchers also noted how the rate of spread among wild birds was three times faster than that in farmed poultry due to the mutations which allowed the virus to adapt to diverse species.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The spread of bird flu within the poultry industry is determined by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-to-vaccinate-millions-of-ducks-against-bird-flu-despite-risk-of-import-restrictions-641798">human activity</a>&nbsp;and the trading of birds. However, for wild birds, it is their migratory routes that indicate where the disease will spread and with flyways along the east Atlantic and Pacific, the virus was able to spread to areas that had never been exposed to it before. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“These results highlight a shift in the HPAI H5 epicentre beyond Asia,” researchers wrote in the paper. The study also noted how outbreaks are typically seasonal and synchronise with bird migration in the Northern Hemisphere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, since November 2021, they have become persistent which led to the killing of millions of birds across five continents in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But despite the number of outbreaks, only 0.2 per cent of cases were sequenced, the researchers noted, urging the countries to ramp up surveillance to understand how the virus is changing.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Need for better data collection</strong></h2>

<p>To study the changes in the virus’&nbsp;behaviour, researchers also analysed more than 10,000 viral genomes and found that around mid-2020, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bird-flu-thing-of-past-scientists-achieve-major-breakthrough-with-gene-editing-645150">new H5N1 strain</a> evolved from an earlier variety, called H5N8.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This new variant first emerged in poultry in Egypt between 2016 and 2017 and is said to be the cause of global flare-ups throughout 2020 and 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Once it’s adapted to wild birds, we have no mechanism to control the virus. And I think that’s the biggest impact that has changed now,” says co-author Vijaykrishna Dhanasekaran from the University of Hong Kong.</p>

<p><br />
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A study conducted by an international team of scientists led by the University of Hong Kong found that the epicentre of the deadly bird flu outbreaks moved to Europe and Africa from Asia.

A study conducted by an international team of scientists led by the University of Hong Kong found that the epicentre of the deadly bird flu outbreaks moved to Europe and Africa from Asia. The findings of the research published in the journal, Nature on Wednesday (Oct 18) also suggest that the strain currently circulating worldwide has become increasingly infectious among wild birds. How was the study conducted? The international team of researchers analysed the outbreaks of the H5N1 which has been classified as a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus given the high death toll in poultry. It was said to have been first detected in birds in China back in 1996. Scientists studied the outbreaks between 2005 and 2022 and used the data on confirmed cases from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). They have attributed the current outbreak to a highly infectious variant of H5N1 which is becoming increasingly infectious to wild birds. It also caused Europe’s worst bird flu outbreak, before spreading globally. This strain has reportedly reached every continent except Oceania and Antarctica. What was found? The bird flu viruses which typically emerged from Asia for 25 years had not undergone any major change but their spread among wild birds indicates that the outbreaks are shifting, said the study. The current strain first emerged in Europe in 2020. Around that time researchers also noted how the rate of spread among wild birds was three times faster than that in farmed poultry due to the mutations which allowed the virus to adapt to diverse species. The spread of bird flu within the poultry industry is determined by human activity and the trading of birds. However, for wild birds, it is their migratory routes that indicate where the disease will spread and with flyways along the east Atlantic and Pacific, the virus was able to spread to areas that had never been exposed to it before. “These results highlight a shift in the HPAI H5 epicentre beyond Asia,” researchers wrote in the paper. The study also noted how outbreaks are typically seasonal and synchronise with bird migration in the Northern Hemisphere. However, since November 2021, they have become persistent which led to the killing of millions of birds across five continents in 2022. But despite the number of outbreaks, only 0.2 per cent of cases were sequenced, the researchers noted, urging the countries to ramp up surveillance to understand how the virus is changing. Need for better data collection To study the changes in the virus’ behaviour, researchers also analysed more than 10,000 viral genomes and found that around mid-2020, a new H5N1 strain evolved from an earlier variety, called H5N8. This new variant first emerged in poultry in Egypt between 2016 and 2017 and is said to be the cause of global flare-ups throughout 2020 and 2021. “Once it’s adapted to wild birds, we have no mechanism to control the virus. And I think that’s the biggest impact that has changed now,” says co-author Vijaykrishna Dhanasekaran from the University of Hong Kong. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Epicentre beyond Asia’: Deadly bird flu outbreaks ‘migrated’ to Europe and Africa, finds study

In reaction to a new internet platform law in the region, Elon Musk, the owner of social media platform X, is thinking of taking the once-popular Twitter service offline in Europe, according to a story published on the news site Insider on Wednesday. According to a person familiar with the business, the billionaire has talked of taking the app offline in the area or preventing users in the EU from using it.

Elon Musk considers removing 'X' from Europe over EU law

Rockstar Paul McCartney's fans can now relive his Glory Days of the 70s a restored double-decker bus used by him and his band wings for a 1972 European tour is headed for auction next month.

Wings Tour Bus will hit the auction block from November 16-18

Elon Musk considers removing 'X' from Europe : Report

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<p>A new analysis has revealed the reason for the presence of Neanderthal DNA in human populations in Europe and Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study, published in&nbsp;<em>Science Advances&nbsp;</em>journal, has deepened scientists' understanding of the ancient genomes that may have medical relevance today. It tracks the hereditary legacy of the age-old relatives of our species with more accuracy, using the critical mass of significant data.</p>

<p>Many humans alive today have a tiny per cent of Neanderthal DNA because of the prehistoric sexual encounters between our ancestors and the Stone Age hominins, who became extinct around 40,000 years ago. However, East Asian populations have a slightly higher concentration of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes.</p>

<p>This difference has always baffled scientists as they have found Neanderthal remains extensively across Europe and the Middle East but not further east of the Altai Mountains in Central Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-shares-amazing-picture-of-solar-eclipse-clicked-from-space-648675">NASA shares amazing picture of solar eclipse clicked from space</a></p>

<p>"So what's puzzling is that in an area where we've never found any Neanderthal remains, there's more Neanderthal DNA," said study co-author Mathias Currat, a senior lecturer of genetics and evolution at the University of Geneva.</p>

<p>Neanderthal DNA makes up about 2 per cent of the genetic makeup of Eurasians. However, it makes up about 4 per cent of the genetic makeup of East Asians, Currat said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currat and his colleagues at the University of Geneva analysed the distribution of the DNA inherited from Neanderthals in the genomes of humans over the past 40,000 years. After the research, they came up with a possible explanation for this discrepancy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are beginning to have enough data to describe more and more precisely the percentage of DNA of Neanderthal origin in the genome of Sapiens at certain periods of prehistory," Currat explained.</p>

<p>According to the study, the distribution of Neanderthal DNA did not always look as it does now.</p>

<p>The research found that in samples older than 20,000 years, genomes of Stone Age Homo sapiens in Europe contained a slightly higher proportion of Neanderthal DNA than those from Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, the present pattern of a higher percentage of Neanderthal ancestry in Asian populations compared to those in Europe developed at a later stage, the research team concluded. It possibly happened during the Neolithic transition when farming replaced hunting and gathering as a way of life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Currat said it was unclear how this transition unfolded in Asia due to the relative lack of data. The study included 1,517 samples from Europe versus 1,108 from Asia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A new analysis has revealed the reason for the presence of Neanderthal DNA in human populations in Europe and Asia. The study, published in Science Advances journal, has deepened scientists' understanding of the ancient genomes that may have medical relevance today.

A new analysis has revealed the reason for the presence of Neanderthal DNA in human populations in Europe and Asia. The study, published in Science Advances journal, has deepened scientists' understanding of the ancient genomes that may have medical relevance today. It tracks the hereditary legacy of the age-old relatives of our species with more accuracy, using the critical mass of significant data. Many humans alive today have a tiny per cent of Neanderthal DNA because of the prehistoric sexual encounters between our ancestors and the Stone Age hominins, who became extinct around 40,000 years ago. However, East Asian populations have a slightly higher concentration of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes. This difference has always baffled scientists as they have found Neanderthal remains extensively across Europe and the Middle East but not further east of the Altai Mountains in Central Asia. ALSO READ | NASA shares amazing picture of solar eclipse clicked from space "So what's puzzling is that in an area where we've never found any Neanderthal remains, there's more Neanderthal DNA," said study co-author Mathias Currat, a senior lecturer of genetics and evolution at the University of Geneva. Neanderthal DNA makes up about 2 per cent of the genetic makeup of Eurasians. However, it makes up about 4 per cent of the genetic makeup of East Asians, Currat said. Currat and his colleagues at the University of Geneva analysed the distribution of the DNA inherited from Neanderthals in the genomes of humans over the past 40,000 years. After the research, they came up with a possible explanation for this discrepancy. "We are beginning to have enough data to describe more and more precisely the percentage of DNA of Neanderthal origin in the genome of Sapiens at certain periods of prehistory," Currat explained. According to the study, the distribution of Neanderthal DNA did not always look as it does now. The research found that in samples older than 20,000 years, genomes of Stone Age Homo sapiens in Europe contained a slightly higher proportion of Neanderthal DNA than those from Asia. Thus, the present pattern of a higher percentage of Neanderthal ancestry in Asian populations compared to those in Europe developed at a later stage, the research team concluded. It possibly happened during the Neolithic transition when farming replaced hunting and gathering as a way of life. However, Currat said it was unclear how this transition unfolded in Asia due to the relative lack of data. The study included 1,517 samples from Europe versus 1,108 from Asia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Why do some people have more Neanderthal DNA than others? Scientists now have an explanation

Two Swedish Nationals have been shot tent and a third person injured in Brussels in an attack which prosecutors are treating as terrorism. Brussels is on its highest Terror alert as the gunman who appeared to have an assault rifle remains at large in Europe. Belgium's Euro 2024 qualifier against Sweden was suspended at half-time and subsequently abandoned.

Belgium: Two Swedes shot dead in Brussels, Belgium raises top-level alert

<p>A commitment to reducing carbon emissions has cost a researcher his job. How? Gianluca Grimalda is in the Solomon Islands for a research trip. The climate activist has been refraining from flying for over a decade. Whosoever he met during his field trip, including those displaced by climate change, the activist vowed that he would reduce his carbon emissions on the way back home on his return journey.</p>

<p>However, a challenge emerged about two weeks ago when&nbsp;his employer demanded him to fly at short notice to Germany from the Solomon Islands. His seniors at the Kiel Institute for Worldwide Economy (IfW) set a deadline for him to get back to his desk.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-storms-leaving-weird-impact-on-birds-claim-scientists-645870">Space Storms leaving weird impact on birds, claim scientists</a></p>

<p>The only options he had to choose from were whether to travel by air or get sacked from his job. Given the climate pledge he had taken, the researcher declined to return.</p>

<p>Later, his employer on Wednesday (Oct 11) told him that his contract had been terminated and he had been sacked from his employment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“IfW seems to ignore that we have entered the Anthropocene era and that the most important Earth ecosystems are close to collapse if not already collapsed,” Grimalda said.</p>

<p>“In this era, wasting 4.5 tonnes of CO2 (the difference between the flight emissions and the slow-travel emissions) to comply with the absurd request to be physically present in Kiel at such short notice is morally unacceptable and epitomises the ultimate privilege of the global elites."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/glass-shards-from-ancient-new-zealand-volcanic-eruption-found-3000-miles-away-645692">Glass shards from ancient New Zealand volcanic eruption found 3,000 miles away</a></p>

<p>He continued saying that the situation "is the sign that IfW is still living in an era that will be wiped out by the incoming climate collapses.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, Gianluca Grimalda is still hanging in there in Bougainville waiting for a cargo ship.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-dengue-death-toll-crosses-1000-mark-643175">Bangladesh: Dengue death toll crosses 1,000-mark</a></strong></p>

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<p>The ship will depart on Saturday (Oct 14) and he will board it for his journey back to Europe. The researcher has spent about six months where he delved deep to investigate the impacts of climate breakdown and globalisation on the island’s inhabitants, reported Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How much emission the journey would have caused?&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Grimalda, in an opinion piece in the Guardian, suggested that the carbon emissions owing to his one-way flight to Europe from the Solomon Islands archipelago were even higher than the carbon footprint of an average person living there in an entire year.</p>

<p>He also reportedly said that initially he thought to appeal against his employer's decision but “In this case, the initial impression is that IfW actions are justified legally.”</p>

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A commitment to reducing carbon emissions has cost a researcher his job. How? Gianluca Grimalda is in the Solomon Islands for a research trip. The climate activist has been refraining from flying for over a decade.

A commitment to reducing carbon emissions has cost a researcher his job. How? Gianluca Grimalda is in the Solomon Islands for a research trip. The climate activist has been refraining from flying for over a decade. Whosoever he met during his field trip, including those displaced by climate change, the activist vowed that he would reduce his carbon emissions on the way back home on his return journey. However, a challenge emerged about two weeks ago when his employer demanded him to fly at short notice to Germany from the Solomon Islands. His seniors at the Kiel Institute for Worldwide Economy (IfW) set a deadline for him to get back to his desk. Also Read | Space Storms leaving weird impact on birds, claim scientists The only options he had to choose from were whether to travel by air or get sacked from his job. Given the climate pledge he had taken, the researcher declined to return. Later, his employer on Wednesday (Oct 11) told him that his contract had been terminated and he had been sacked from his employment. “IfW seems to ignore that we have entered the Anthropocene era and that the most important Earth ecosystems are close to collapse if not already collapsed,” Grimalda said. “In this era, wasting 4.5 tonnes of CO2 (the difference between the flight emissions and the slow-travel emissions) to comply with the absurd request to be physically present in Kiel at such short notice is morally unacceptable and epitomises the ultimate privilege of the global elites." Also Read | Glass shards from ancient New Zealand volcanic eruption found 3,000 miles away He continued saying that the situation "is the sign that IfW is still living in an era that will be wiped out by the incoming climate collapses.” Now, Gianluca Grimalda is still hanging in there in Bougainville waiting for a cargo ship. Watch | Bangladesh: Dengue death toll crosses 1,000-mark × The ship will depart on Saturday (Oct 14) and he will board it for his journey back to Europe. The researcher has spent about six months where he delved deep to investigate the impacts of climate breakdown and globalisation on the island’s inhabitants, reported Guardian. How much emission the journey would have caused? Grimalda, in an opinion piece in the Guardian, suggested that the carbon emissions owing to his one-way flight to Europe from the Solomon Islands archipelago were even higher than the carbon footprint of an average person living there in an entire year. He also reportedly said that initially he thought to appeal against his employer's decision but “In this case, the initial impression is that IfW actions are justified legally.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

A researcher's climate pledge cost him his job. Here's how

<p>The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its growth projections downward for both China and the euro area while emphasising the uneven and sluggish nature of the global economic recovery. Despite acknowledging the "remarkable strength" of the U.S. economy, the IMF has trimmed its global real GDP growth forecast for 2024 by 0.1 percentage points to 2.9 per cent, from its July projection, while maintaining the 2023 growth forecast at 3.0 per cent. In comparison, world output expanded by 3.5 per cent in 2022.</p>

<p>Reuters cited Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, Chief Economist at the IMF, who noted that while the global economy is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and last year's energy crisis, growth trends vary widely across different regions. He expressed concerns about medium-term growth prospects, describing them as "mediocre." Gourinchas also highlighted several risks, including the real estate crisis in China, volatile commodity prices, geopolitical fragmentation, and resurgence in inflation.</p>

<p>Regarding the recent Israel-Palestinian conflict, Gourinchas stated that it was too early to assess its potential impact on the global economy, emphasising the need to consider various scenarios that have yet to be explored.</p>

<p>The IMF's outlook underscores the challenges facing the global economy, characterised by the persistent effects of the pandemic, Russia's conflict in Ukraine, rising interest rates, extreme weather events, and reduced fiscal support. The total global output in 2023 is expected to be 3.4 per cent lower than pre-pandemic projections, equating to approximately $3.6 trillion.</p>

<p>Gourinchas described the current state of the global economy as "limping along" and falling short of a full recovery. The IMF's medium-term outlook predicts growth of 3.1 per cent in 2028, a significant drop from the 4.9 per cent forecast made just before the global financial crisis of 2008-2009.</p>

<p>Regarding inflation, the IMF expects a decline due to lower energy and food prices. It anticipates a drop in annual average inflation to 6.9 per cent in 2023, down from 8.7 per cent in 2022, and further to 5.8 per cent in 2024. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy prices, is expected to decrease gradually, reaching 6.3 per cent in 2023 and 5.3 per cent in 2024.</p>

<p>Gourinchas cautioned against premature interest rate cuts, citing strong labour markets and the absence of a wage-price spiral despite robust employment and low unemployment rates in most advanced economies.</p>

<p>The IMF recommended that countries remain vigilant with their monetary policies until inflation shows sustained decline and urged them to rebuild fiscal buffers to address future challenges or shocks.</p>

<p>In terms of growth, the IMF raised its growth forecast for the United States, citing strong business investment and consumption, making it the only major economy surpassing pre-pandemic projections. In contrast, China's GDP growth is expected to slow to 5.0 per cent in 2023 and 4.2 per cent in 2024, primarily due to a real estate crisis and weak external demand.</p>

<p>The IMF also downgraded its growth estimates for the euro area to 0.7 per cent in 2023 and 1.2 per cent in 2024, while the UK saw its growth forecast revised upward for 2023 but lowered for 2024. Japan is expected to experience growth of 2.0 per cent in 2023, mainly driven by pent-up demand, tourism, monetary policy, and auto exports, with a stable outlook for 2024.</p>

<p>(Inputs from Reuters)</p>

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its growth projections downward for both China and the euro area while emphasising the uneven and sluggish nature of the global economic recovery.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its growth projections downward for both China and the euro area while emphasising the uneven and sluggish nature of the global economic recovery. Despite acknowledging the "remarkable strength" of the U.S. economy, the IMF has trimmed its global real GDP growth forecast for 2024 by 0.1 percentage points to 2.9 per cent, from its July projection, while maintaining the 2023 growth forecast at 3.0 per cent. In comparison, world output expanded by 3.5 per cent in 2022. Reuters cited Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, Chief Economist at the IMF, who noted that while the global economy is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and last year's energy crisis, growth trends vary widely across different regions. He expressed concerns about medium-term growth prospects, describing them as "mediocre." Gourinchas also highlighted several risks, including the real estate crisis in China, volatile commodity prices, geopolitical fragmentation, and resurgence in inflation. Regarding the recent Israel-Palestinian conflict, Gourinchas stated that it was too early to assess its potential impact on the global economy, emphasising the need to consider various scenarios that have yet to be explored. The IMF's outlook underscores the challenges facing the global economy, characterised by the persistent effects of the pandemic, Russia's conflict in Ukraine, rising interest rates, extreme weather events, and reduced fiscal support. The total global output in 2023 is expected to be 3.4 per cent lower than pre-pandemic projections, equating to approximately $3.6 trillion. Gourinchas described the current state of the global economy as "limping along" and falling short of a full recovery. The IMF's medium-term outlook predicts growth of 3.1 per cent in 2028, a significant drop from the 4.9 per cent forecast made just before the global financial crisis of 2008-2009. Regarding inflation, the IMF expects a decline due to lower energy and food prices. It anticipates a drop in annual average inflation to 6.9 per cent in 2023, down from 8.7 per cent in 2022, and further to 5.8 per cent in 2024. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy prices, is expected to decrease gradually, reaching 6.3 per cent in 2023 and 5.3 per cent in 2024. Gourinchas cautioned against premature interest rate cuts, citing strong labour markets and the absence of a wage-price spiral despite robust employment and low unemployment rates in most advanced economies. The IMF recommended that countries remain vigilant with their monetary policies until inflation shows sustained decline and urged them to rebuild fiscal buffers to address future challenges or shocks. In terms of growth, the IMF raised its growth forecast for the United States, citing strong business investment and consumption, making it the only major economy surpassing pre-pandemic projections. In contrast, China's GDP growth is expected to slow to 5.0 per cent in 2023 and 4.2 per cent in 2024, primarily due to a real estate crisis and weak external demand. The IMF also downgraded its growth estimates for the euro area to 0.7 per cent in 2023 and 1.2 per cent in 2024, while the UK saw its growth forecast revised upward for 2023 but lowered for 2024. Japan is expected to experience growth of 2.0 per cent in 2023, mainly driven by pent-up demand, tourism, monetary policy, and auto exports, with a stable outlook for 2024. (Inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IMF downgrades growth forecasts for China and Euro area, cites uneven global recovery

<p style="margin:0cm 0cm 10pt">European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde has voiced confidence in the ECB's ability to achieve its target of bringing inflation back down to 2 per cent. In an interview with French newspaper La Tribune Dimanche, Lagarde also expressed optimism regarding Europe's gas reserves situation, citing various factors contributing to her positive outlook.</p>

<p>Last month, the ECB implemented a record-high key interest rate of 4 per cent, signalling a strong commitment to addressing inflationary pressures. Lagarde emphasised that the sustained levels of the key ECB interest rates would play a crucial role in facilitating the timely return of inflation to the desired target.</p>

<p>"The key ECB interest rates have reached levels that, maintained for a sufficiently long duration, will make a substantial contribution to the timely return of inflation to the target," Reuters quoted Lagarde as saying during the interview conducted on October 2.</p>

<p>Despite acknowledging that inflation was currently on a significant downward trajectory, Lagarde remained optimistic about the short-term economic outlook. She cited several reasons for her confidence, including ongoing economic reforms taking place in Europe and notable improvements in the region's gas reserves situation.</p>

<p>Lagarde highlighted the importance of structural reforms being implemented in the European economy, underscoring the positive impact they could have on future economic performance.</p>

<p>In addition, she drew attention to the remarkable progress made in replenishing gas reserves, surpassing 90 per cent by September 2023. This development has bolstered Europe's preparedness for the upcoming winter season, providing a sense of confidence and security.</p>

<p>"This allows us to look towards the coming winter, if not calmly, then at least with a lot more confidence," Reuters noted Lagarde’s concluding remarks, emphasising the improved outlook for Europe's gas reserves situation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)</em></p>

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European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde has voiced confidence in the ECB's ability to achieve its target of bringing inflation back down to 2 per cent.

European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde has voiced confidence in the ECB's ability to achieve its target of bringing inflation back down to 2 per cent. In an interview with French newspaper La Tribune Dimanche, Lagarde also expressed optimism regarding Europe's gas reserves situation, citing various factors contributing to her positive outlook. Last month, the ECB implemented a record-high key interest rate of 4 per cent, signalling a strong commitment to addressing inflationary pressures. Lagarde emphasised that the sustained levels of the key ECB interest rates would play a crucial role in facilitating the timely return of inflation to the desired target. "The key ECB interest rates have reached levels that, maintained for a sufficiently long duration, will make a substantial contribution to the timely return of inflation to the target," Reuters quoted Lagarde as saying during the interview conducted on October 2. Despite acknowledging that inflation was currently on a significant downward trajectory, Lagarde remained optimistic about the short-term economic outlook. She cited several reasons for her confidence, including ongoing economic reforms taking place in Europe and notable improvements in the region's gas reserves situation. Lagarde highlighted the importance of structural reforms being implemented in the European economy, underscoring the positive impact they could have on future economic performance. In addition, she drew attention to the remarkable progress made in replenishing gas reserves, surpassing 90 per cent by September 2023. This development has bolstered Europe's preparedness for the upcoming winter season, providing a sense of confidence and security. "This allows us to look towards the coming winter, if not calmly, then at least with a lot more confidence," Reuters noted Lagarde’s concluding remarks, emphasising the improved outlook for Europe's gas reserves situation. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

ECB's Lagarde expresses confidence in 2pc inflation target and Europe's gas reserves

<p>Spain's company PLD Space launched Miura-1 rocket on Saturday (Oct 7) marking Europe's first fully private rocket launch. Miura-1, a recoverable rocket was launched from a site in southwest Spain. The launch is being viewed as a boost to Europe's stalled space ambitions.</p>

<p>PLD Space's test launch at night from Huelva came after two previous attempts were scrubbed. The Miura-1 rocket has been name after a breed of fighting bull. The rocket is as tall as a three-storey building. It has a 100-kg (220-pound) cargo capacity.</p>

<p>The company said that the launch does carry payload for test purposes but the payload will not be released. Engineers were seen cheering in a mission control video as the rocket lifted off in the night sky.</p>

<p>"My voice is shot after so much shouting," said a triumphant Raul Torres, CEO of PLD Space, shortly after the launch.</p>

<p>He said that all rocket system were working "perfectly". He added that the company will now focus on tripling its workforce.</p>

<p>"This is just the beginning," he said.</p>

<p>Pedro Sanchez, Spain's acting Prime Minister took to social media to mark the occasion.</p>

<p>"The launch of the Miura 1, the first rocket with 100% Spanish technology, has been a success. A milestone that positions Spain's research and development at the forefront of space transportation," he said.</p>

<p>The flight of the rocket lasted for 306 seconds. The maximum height of 46 kilometres was however, just half the altitude the mission planners had aimed for, said Space[dot]com.</p>

<p>The company will recover the partially reusable launcher on Saturday. The launcher landed in the Atlantic Ocean.</p>

<p>The first attempt to launch Miura-1 was carried out in the month of May, but was abandoned because of high-altitude winds. A second attempt was carried out in June but it was a failure when umbilical cables did not all release in time . The lift-off was halted amid smoke and flames spewing from the rocket.</p>

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Spain's company PLD Space launched Miura-1 rocket on Saturday (Oct 7) marking Europe's first fully private rocket launch. Miura-1, a recoverable rocket was launched from a site in southwest Spain.

Spain's company PLD Space launched Miura-1 rocket on Saturday (Oct 7) marking Europe's first fully private rocket launch. Miura-1, a recoverable rocket was launched from a site in southwest Spain. The launch is being viewed as a boost to Europe's stalled space ambitions. PLD Space's test launch at night from Huelva came after two previous attempts were scrubbed. The Miura-1 rocket has been name after a breed of fighting bull. The rocket is as tall as a three-storey building. It has a 100-kg (220-pound) cargo capacity. The company said that the launch does carry payload for test purposes but the payload will not be released. Engineers were seen cheering in a mission control video as the rocket lifted off in the night sky. "My voice is shot after so much shouting," said a triumphant Raul Torres, CEO of PLD Space, shortly after the launch. He said that all rocket system were working "perfectly". He added that the company will now focus on tripling its workforce. "This is just the beginning," he said. Pedro Sanchez, Spain's acting Prime Minister took to social media to mark the occasion. "The launch of the Miura 1, the first rocket with 100% Spanish technology, has been a success. A milestone that positions Spain's research and development at the forefront of space transportation," he said. The flight of the rocket lasted for 306 seconds. The maximum height of 46 kilometres was however, just half the altitude the mission planners had aimed for, said Space[dot]com. The company will recover the partially reusable launcher on Saturday. The launcher landed in the Atlantic Ocean. The first attempt to launch Miura-1 was carried out in the month of May, but was abandoned because of high-altitude winds. A second attempt was carried out in June but it was a failure when umbilical cables did not all release in time . The lift-off was halted amid smoke and flames spewing from the rocket. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Europe's first fully private rocket launch takes place from Spain

<p>Asian hornets, also known as yellow-legged hornets, have invaded large parts of mainland Europe and parts of east Asia. But now, a study has shown that they are possibly facing resistance from native species like bumblebees.</p>

<p>New research shows bumblebees have a remarkably successful method for fighting off Asian hornets. The study was published in the journal Communications Biology and led by a British university.</p>

<p>It comes at a time when a record level of Asian hornets have been observed in the UK and continental Europe this year, raising the risk for bees and prompting substantial control efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How does this fight take place?</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists from the University of Exeter observed that when attacked, buff-tailed bumblebees drop to the ground and take the hornets down with them. This causes the hornet to either lose its grip or the bee raises its sting and tussles until the hornet gives up.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/europeans-would-eat-not-bury-their-dead-15000-years-ago-study-643032">Europeans would eat, not bury, their dead 15,000 years ago: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>Researchers from the British university witnessed over 120 such attacks with bumblebees winning each time. However, this does not seem to be reflected in the numbers since the researchers also found that bumble bee colonies had reduced growth rates in areas with high numbers of Asian hornets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This suggests that the hornets – despite their failed attempts to attack and enter the colonies – have a negative impact on the pollinators.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Asian hornets prey on a wide range of insects, including honey bees, but little is known about their impact on other pollinators,” said Thomas O’Shea-Wheller, from Exeter’s Environment and Sustainability Institute, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Does this help the bumblebees?</strong></h2>

<p>During the so-called fight between honey bees or bumble bees it was observed that the hornets do something called “hawking” which is essentially hovering outside the colony and attacking returning foragers as they fly past, O’Shea-Wheller explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers also found that while hornets deploy the same method for both pollinators, with bumblebees, they are “entirely unsuccessful.” The study also noted that while honey bees are often unable to escape the clutches of Asian hornets, bumblebees’ defensive response appears to be more successful.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-most-invasive-aquatic-plant-hydrilla-found-in-michigan-for-the-first-time-643304">Hydrilla: World's most invasive aquatic plant found in Michigan for the first time</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking about the hornets’ low success rate, the researcher also said that hornets attack bumblebees of “all sizes” even some larger than them. He added, “They are very persistent and generalist predators, so these attacks may still be worthwhile despite the high failure rate, as long as they sometimes get a kill.”</p>

<p>For this study, researchers placed reared bumblebee colonies in 12 locations across the Spanish province of Pontevedra with varying local Asian hornet densities. These colonies were then weighed – as a way to measure colony growth – every two days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers noted that colonies in areas which had higher Asian hornet densities grew more slowly. “We can’t say for certain why this is. It’s possible that some external factor is good for Asian hornets, allowing them to thrive, but bad for bumblebees,” said O’Shea-Wheller.<br />
<br />
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Asian hornets, also known as yellow-legged hornets, have invaded large parts of mainland Europe and parts of east Asia. But now, a study has shown that they are possibly facing resistance from native species like bumblebees.

Asian hornets, also known as yellow-legged hornets, have invaded large parts of mainland Europe and parts of east Asia. But now, a study has shown that they are possibly facing resistance from native species like bumblebees. New research shows bumblebees have a remarkably successful method for fighting off Asian hornets. The study was published in the journal Communications Biology and led by a British university. It comes at a time when a record level of Asian hornets have been observed in the UK and continental Europe this year, raising the risk for bees and prompting substantial control efforts. How does this fight take place? Scientists from the University of Exeter observed that when attacked, buff-tailed bumblebees drop to the ground and take the hornets down with them. This causes the hornet to either lose its grip or the bee raises its sting and tussles until the hornet gives up. ALSO READ | Europeans would eat, not bury, their dead 15,000 years ago: Study Researchers from the British university witnessed over 120 such attacks with bumblebees winning each time. However, this does not seem to be reflected in the numbers since the researchers also found that bumble bee colonies had reduced growth rates in areas with high numbers of Asian hornets. This suggests that the hornets – despite their failed attempts to attack and enter the colonies – have a negative impact on the pollinators. “Asian hornets prey on a wide range of insects, including honey bees, but little is known about their impact on other pollinators,” said Thomas O’Shea-Wheller, from Exeter’s Environment and Sustainability Institute, in a statement. Does this help the bumblebees? During the so-called fight between honey bees or bumble bees it was observed that the hornets do something called “hawking” which is essentially hovering outside the colony and attacking returning foragers as they fly past, O’Shea-Wheller explained. Researchers also found that while hornets deploy the same method for both pollinators, with bumblebees, they are “entirely unsuccessful.” The study also noted that while honey bees are often unable to escape the clutches of Asian hornets, bumblebees’ defensive response appears to be more successful. ALSO READ | Hydrilla: World's most invasive aquatic plant found in Michigan for the first time Speaking about the hornets’ low success rate, the researcher also said that hornets attack bumblebees of “all sizes” even some larger than them. He added, “They are very persistent and generalist predators, so these attacks may still be worthwhile despite the high failure rate, as long as they sometimes get a kill.” For this study, researchers placed reared bumblebee colonies in 12 locations across the Spanish province of Pontevedra with varying local Asian hornet densities. These colonies were then weighed – as a way to measure colony growth – every two days. Researchers noted that colonies in areas which had higher Asian hornet densities grew more slowly. “We can’t say for certain why this is. It’s possible that some external factor is good for Asian hornets, allowing them to thrive, but bad for bumblebees,” said O’Shea-Wheller. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bumblebees have a ‘remarkably successful’ way of fighting off invasive Asian hornets: Study

<p>Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) witnessed a staggering 95 per cent drop in its shares as it unveiled a comprehensive financial restructuring plan aimed at averting bankruptcy. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The restructuring plan introduces new prominent investors while erasing the stakes held by over 250,000 shareholders. This drastic measure follows SAS's filing for bankruptcy protection in the United States in 2022, resulting from years of grappling with high operational costs, coupled with reduced customer demand amid the COVID-19 pandemic, The Economic Times reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SAS disclosed that U.S. investment firm Castlelake and Air France-KLM will emerge as major shareholders alongside the Danish state, leading to the delisting of the airline's stock from the Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Oslo exchanges. Air France-KLM, in particular, aims to integrate SAS flights into its own airlines operating from its Amsterdam and Paris hubs, thereby bolstering its Nordic presence. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The restructuring will see Castlelake holding a stake of approximately 32 per cent, Air France-KLM owning around 20 per cent, Danish investor Lind Invest acquiring 8.6 per cent, and the Danish state retaining about 26 per cent. The remaining equity is anticipated to be distributed among creditors. As a result, SAS shares plummeted by 83 per cent, trading at 0.05 Swedish crowns ($0.0045).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This move necessitates the cancellation, redemption, and delisting of all SAS's common shares and listed commercial hybrid bonds, scheduled to occur in the second quarter of 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sydbank analyst Jacob Pedersen suggested that the residual value of SAS shares may be due to potential legal challenges or investor optimism. He emphasised that SAS management had previously acknowledged the risk of shares becoming worthless, which has now materialised. The Economic Times quoted Pedersen as saying, "If you can't find someone even more opportunistic and risk-averse than yourself to sell it to, you will ultimately end up with a loss.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>CNBC reported that SAS's decision to exit the Star Alliance, of which it is a founding member, and join the Sky Team Alliance, aligned with Air France-KLM, could have significant implications for the airline industry, particularly in terms of the power dynamics between the two alliances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Pedersen, this shift in alliances strengthens Sky Team, particularly in the Nordic region, potentially prompting some Star Alliance airlines to reconsider their strategies or presence due to the loss of SAS as an alliance partner. &nbsp;</p>

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Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) witnessed a staggering 95 per cent drop in its shares as it unveiled a comprehensive financial restructuring plan aimed at averting bankruptcy.

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) witnessed a staggering 95 per cent drop in its shares as it unveiled a comprehensive financial restructuring plan aimed at averting bankruptcy. The restructuring plan introduces new prominent investors while erasing the stakes held by over 250,000 shareholders. This drastic measure follows SAS's filing for bankruptcy protection in the United States in 2022, resulting from years of grappling with high operational costs, coupled with reduced customer demand amid the COVID-19 pandemic, The Economic Times reported. SAS disclosed that U.S. investment firm Castlelake and Air France-KLM will emerge as major shareholders alongside the Danish state, leading to the delisting of the airline's stock from the Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Oslo exchanges. Air France-KLM, in particular, aims to integrate SAS flights into its own airlines operating from its Amsterdam and Paris hubs, thereby bolstering its Nordic presence. The restructuring will see Castlelake holding a stake of approximately 32 per cent, Air France-KLM owning around 20 per cent, Danish investor Lind Invest acquiring 8.6 per cent, and the Danish state retaining about 26 per cent. The remaining equity is anticipated to be distributed among creditors. As a result, SAS shares plummeted by 83 per cent, trading at 0.05 Swedish crowns ($0.0045). This move necessitates the cancellation, redemption, and delisting of all SAS's common shares and listed commercial hybrid bonds, scheduled to occur in the second quarter of 2024. Sydbank analyst Jacob Pedersen suggested that the residual value of SAS shares may be due to potential legal challenges or investor optimism. He emphasised that SAS management had previously acknowledged the risk of shares becoming worthless, which has now materialised. The Economic Times quoted Pedersen as saying, "If you can't find someone even more opportunistic and risk-averse than yourself to sell it to, you will ultimately end up with a loss.” CNBC reported that SAS's decision to exit the Star Alliance, of which it is a founding member, and join the Sky Team Alliance, aligned with Air France-KLM, could have significant implications for the airline industry, particularly in terms of the power dynamics between the two alliances. According to Pedersen, this shift in alliances strengthens Sky Team, particularly in the Nordic region, potentially prompting some Star Alliance airlines to reconsider their strategies or presence due to the loss of SAS as an alliance partner. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

European carrier SAS’s shares plummet by 95 pc in wake of major restructuring 

<p>Football's global governing body FIFA on Wednesday (October 4) announced it had reached an agreement to host the 2030 World Cup across three continents viz, South America, Africa and Europe.</p>

<p>While Morocco, Portugal and Spain will be the joint hosts for the marquee event, games will also be played in&nbsp;Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay. As a result, all six nations will automatically qualify for the World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In 2030, the FIFA World Cup will unite three continents and six countries, inviting the entire world to join in the celebration of the beautiful game, the Centenary and the FIFA World Cup itself," FIFA said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>FIFA said the World Cup matches were being held in South America as part of the centenary celebration of the first World Cup held in Uruguay. According to FIFA, the three South American nations will organise one match each with the first of the three matches taking place at the stadium where it all began - the mythical Estádio Centenário, located in the Uruguayan capital city of Montevideo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The centennial World Cup could not be far from South America, where everything began,” said Alejandro Dominguez, the president of South American soccer body CONMEBOL. “The 2030 World Cup will be played in three continents.”</p>

<p>Notably, the decision was made at a virtual&nbsp;meeting of the FIFA council. It will need to be confirmed in a vote with all 211 FIFA members present at an event, likely to take place before the next FIFA congress in Bangkok in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icc-world-cup-2023-1986-wc-winning-coach-dav-whatmore-picks-game-changers-for-wc-642233"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>WC will unite a divided world: FIFA</strong></h2>

<p>FIFA President&nbsp;Gianni Infantino said the muti-continent World Cup will unite a divided world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In a divided world, FIFA and football are uniting.&nbsp;he FIFA Council, representing the entire world of football, unanimously agreed to celebrate the centenary of the FIFA World Cup, whose first edition was played in Uruguay in 1930, in the most appropriate way," said Infantino.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decision also closes months of speculation and jostling among the continental confederations who were vying to receive the right to play host.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-demands-replay-of-liverpool-tottenham-match-after-var-chaos-642603"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos</strong></a></p>

<p>Additionally, FIFA said the&nbsp;2034 World Cup will be staged in a host country (or countries) represented by the Asian or Oceania confederations. According to football pundits, it means a bid from Saudi Arabia is highly likely and a repeat of the Winter World Cup that took place in Qatar last year might be on the cards.</p>

<p>Apart from the kingdom, Australia is expected to put in its bid, perhaps alongside Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Football's global governing body FIFA on Wednesday (October 4) announced it had reached an agreement to host the 2030 World Cup across three continents viz, South America, Africa and Europe.

Football's global governing body FIFA on Wednesday (October 4) announced it had reached an agreement to host the 2030 World Cup across three continents viz, South America, Africa and Europe. While Morocco, Portugal and Spain will be the joint hosts for the marquee event, games will also be played in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay. As a result, all six nations will automatically qualify for the World Cup. "In 2030, the FIFA World Cup will unite three continents and six countries, inviting the entire world to join in the celebration of the beautiful game, the Centenary and the FIFA World Cup itself," FIFA said in a statement. FIFA said the World Cup matches were being held in South America as part of the centenary celebration of the first World Cup held in Uruguay. According to FIFA, the three South American nations will organise one match each with the first of the three matches taking place at the stadium where it all began - the mythical Estádio Centenário, located in the Uruguayan capital city of Montevideo. “The centennial World Cup could not be far from South America, where everything began,” said Alejandro Dominguez, the president of South American soccer body CONMEBOL. “The 2030 World Cup will be played in three continents.” Notably, the decision was made at a virtual meeting of the FIFA council. It will need to be confirmed in a vote with all 211 FIFA members present at an event, likely to take place before the next FIFA congress in Bangkok in 2024. Watch | ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC × WC will unite a divided world: FIFA FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the muti-continent World Cup will unite a divided world. “In a divided world, FIFA and football are uniting. he FIFA Council, representing the entire world of football, unanimously agreed to celebrate the centenary of the FIFA World Cup, whose first edition was played in Uruguay in 1930, in the most appropriate way," said Infantino. The decision also closes months of speculation and jostling among the continental confederations who were vying to receive the right to play host. Also read | Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos Additionally, FIFA said the 2034 World Cup will be staged in a host country (or countries) represented by the Asian or Oceania confederations. According to football pundits, it means a bid from Saudi Arabia is highly likely and a repeat of the Winter World Cup that took place in Qatar last year might be on the cards. Apart from the kingdom, Australia is expected to put in its bid, perhaps alongside Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

2030 Football World Cup to be held in Europe, Africa and South America, announces FIFA

The Albania coast is battering wildfire. Firefighters are struggling to keep the blaze in control, which, as per the state media has been going on for more than a week. According to authorities, wildfire has burned through 500 hectares of pine forest. Greece has responded by sending two firefighting planes. This summer, searing temperatures fuelled wildfires and prompted health warnings across southern Europe.

Albania struggles to control forest fire

<p>European Union (EU) has launched the first phase of its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)&nbsp;aimed at imposing CO2 emissions tariffs on various imported goods, including steel, cement, and more, reported Reuters. This initiative is designed to safeguard the EU's commitment to sustainability by preventing the influx of environmentally detrimental foreign products that could jeopardise its green transition. The proposal has sparked concerns among trade partners, with China's top climate envoy, Xie Zhenhua, urging against unilateral actions, like the EU levy during a recent forum.</p>

<h2><strong>CBAM's initial phase</strong></h2>

<p>Although the EU will not start collecting CO2 emission charges at its borders until 2026, the commencement of CBAM's initial phase took place on Sunday (Oct 1).</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-reported-near-turkish-parliament-ahead-of-planned-session-641429">Suicide bomber triggers blast near Turkish parliament, another shot dead</a></p>

<p>"To help EU importers and non-EU installations in the practical implementation of the new rules, a new CBAM transitional registry will become available on 1 October to help importers perform and report these calculations," the EU said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During this phase, EU importers will be required to report the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of imported commodities, such as iron and steel, aluminium, cement, electricity, fertilizers, and hydrogen.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-caretaker-prime-minister-anwarul-haq-kakar-hints-military-picked-him-641537">Pakistan’s caretaker PM Kakar says military very strong, ‘picked’ him for post</a></p>

<p>Starting in 2026, importers will need to purchase certificates to offset these CO2 emissions. This will bring them to a level playing field compared to EU industries that must acquire permits from the EU carbon market to mitigate their pollution.</p>

<p>"It will equalise the price of carbon between domestic products and imports. This will ensure that the EU's climate policies are not undermined by production relocating to countries with less ambitious green standards or by the replacement of EU products by more carbon-intensive imports," the EU said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-bars-ex-pm-khaleda-zia-from-going-abroad-for-treatment-641561">Bangladesh bars ex-PM Khaleda Zia from going abroad for treatment</a></strong></p>

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<p>As per the EU, CBAM is a WTO-compatible measure that will inspire global industries to watch out for greener and more sustainable technologies.</p>

<p>EU added, "Reviews of the CBAM's functioning and product scope during its transitional phase will be concluded before the start of the definitive period, as well as the feasibility of extending the scope of CBAM to other goods produced in ETS sectors."&nbsp;</p>

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European Union (EU) has launched the first phase of its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) aimed at imposing CO2 emissions tariffs on various imported goods, including steel, cement, and more, reported Reuters.

European Union (EU) has launched the first phase of its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) aimed at imposing CO2 emissions tariffs on various imported goods, including steel, cement, and more, reported Reuters. This initiative is designed to safeguard the EU's commitment to sustainability by preventing the influx of environmentally detrimental foreign products that could jeopardise its green transition. The proposal has sparked concerns among trade partners, with China's top climate envoy, Xie Zhenhua, urging against unilateral actions, like the EU levy during a recent forum. CBAM's initial phase Although the EU will not start collecting CO2 emission charges at its borders until 2026, the commencement of CBAM's initial phase took place on Sunday (Oct 1). Also Read | Suicide bomber triggers blast near Turkish parliament, another shot dead "To help EU importers and non-EU installations in the practical implementation of the new rules, a new CBAM transitional registry will become available on 1 October to help importers perform and report these calculations," the EU said in a statement. During this phase, EU importers will be required to report the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of imported commodities, such as iron and steel, aluminium, cement, electricity, fertilizers, and hydrogen. Also Read | Pakistan’s caretaker PM Kakar says military very strong, ‘picked’ him for post Starting in 2026, importers will need to purchase certificates to offset these CO2 emissions. This will bring them to a level playing field compared to EU industries that must acquire permits from the EU carbon market to mitigate their pollution. "It will equalise the price of carbon between domestic products and imports. This will ensure that the EU's climate policies are not undermined by production relocating to countries with less ambitious green standards or by the replacement of EU products by more carbon-intensive imports," the EU said in a statement. Watch | Bangladesh bars ex-PM Khaleda Zia from going abroad for treatment × As per the EU, CBAM is a WTO-compatible measure that will inspire global industries to watch out for greener and more sustainable technologies. EU added, "Reviews of the CBAM's functioning and product scope during its transitional phase will be concluded before the start of the definitive period, as well as the feasibility of extending the scope of CBAM to other goods produced in ETS sectors." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

EU launches world's first carbon border tax to bolster green transition

Hot autumn weather is forecast to extend across European countries in October. After their hottest September on record. According to weather experts, this year is likely to be the warmest in human history as a strong heat dome will re-develop into Western Europe, with a new heatwave for countries underneath.

Autumn heat continues in Europe after record-breaking September

<p>A rather unprecedented climate trial is currently underway at the&nbsp;European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg, France after six young people from areas in Portugal ravaged by wildfires took 32 European governments to court. Dubbed as the largest climate case ever to be heard by ECHR, the young people argue that the failure of the said nations to act fast enough on climate change is a violation of their climate rights.</p>

<p>The young Portuguese applicants, aged between 11 and 24, with the support of the British-based Global Legal Action Network (GLAN), filed the case in September 2020 against the&nbsp;27 EU member states as well as Britain, Switzerland, Norway, Russia and Turkey. They are seeking a legally binding order that would force the states to act on climate issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the hearing started early in the day and is scheduled to end on the same day, a ruling is not expected before the first half of 2024.</p>

<p>"Today&nbsp;we will stand up at the ECHR to argue for our rights and our future," the applicants wrote on social media ahead of the trial.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/double-the-climate-financing-pacific-forum-members-call-for-action-from-biggest-emitters-of-carbon-498254"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Double the climate financing', Pacific Forum members call for action from biggest emitters of carbon</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>David vs Goliath&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In what is a true 'David vs. Goliath battle, more than 80 lawyers are representing the accused countries while the applicants are being represented by just six lawyers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gerry Liston, one of the lawyers representing the Portuguese youth said if the case were to be successful, it would be up to national courts to enforce the rulings. They would be provided with a road map to ensure enforcement was effective.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We just want them (governments) to stick to the treaties and do what they promised they would do," 15-year-old Andre Oliveira, one of the six applicants was quoted as saying by&nbsp;<em>Reuters </em>as he&nbsp;pointed to the 2015 Paris Agreement on cutting emissions to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius and aim for 1.5ºC.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-tries-to-fight-the-heat-with-cool-gadgets-621313"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Japan tries to fight the heat with cool gadgets</strong></a></p>

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<p>Climate change is fast becoming an existential threat to humanity.&nbsp;UN Secretary-General, António Guterres has already warned the world saying "the era of global warming has ended" and that "the era of global boiling has arrived".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Climate change is here. It is terrifying. And it is just the beginning.&nbsp;It is still possible to limit global temperature rise to 1.5C [above pre-industrial levels] and avoid the very worst of climate change. But only with dramatic, immediate climate action," said&nbsp;Guterres.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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A rather unprecedented climate trial is currently underway at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg, France after six young people from areas in Portugal ravaged by wildfires took 32 European governments to court.

A rather unprecedented climate trial is currently underway at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg, France after six young people from areas in Portugal ravaged by wildfires took 32 European governments to court. Dubbed as the largest climate case ever to be heard by ECHR, the young people argue that the failure of the said nations to act fast enough on climate change is a violation of their climate rights. The young Portuguese applicants, aged between 11 and 24, with the support of the British-based Global Legal Action Network (GLAN), filed the case in September 2020 against the 27 EU member states as well as Britain, Switzerland, Norway, Russia and Turkey. They are seeking a legally binding order that would force the states to act on climate issues. While the hearing started early in the day and is scheduled to end on the same day, a ruling is not expected before the first half of 2024. "Today we will stand up at the ECHR to argue for our rights and our future," the applicants wrote on social media ahead of the trial. Also read | 'Double the climate financing', Pacific Forum members call for action from biggest emitters of carbon David vs Goliath In what is a true 'David vs. Goliath battle, more than 80 lawyers are representing the accused countries while the applicants are being represented by just six lawyers. Gerry Liston, one of the lawyers representing the Portuguese youth said if the case were to be successful, it would be up to national courts to enforce the rulings. They would be provided with a road map to ensure enforcement was effective. "We just want them (governments) to stick to the treaties and do what they promised they would do," 15-year-old Andre Oliveira, one of the six applicants was quoted as saying by Reuters as he pointed to the 2015 Paris Agreement on cutting emissions to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius and aim for 1.5ºC. Watch | Japan tries to fight the heat with cool gadgets × Climate change is fast becoming an existential threat to humanity. UN Secretary-General, António Guterres has already warned the world saying "the era of global warming has ended" and that "the era of global boiling has arrived". “Climate change is here. It is terrifying. And it is just the beginning. It is still possible to limit global temperature rise to 1.5C [above pre-industrial levels] and avoid the very worst of climate change. But only with dramatic, immediate climate action," said Guterres. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Why have these young Portuguese climate activists taken 32 European nations to court?

Greece and Turkey agree on migration pact as EU members fail to seal a wider deal in Brussels. The German government shifted its position on a long-disputed migration crisis regulation, with the German interior minister, Nancy Fesser, saying she expected a breakthrough.

EU poised to agree new rules for asylum-seekers

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