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Emergency Measures for Artificial Cooling of the Great Barrier Reef Amidst Warming Surge

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Coral bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland, Australia

Nature Picture Library/Alamy

Researchers stress the urgent need for strategies to artificially provide shade from rising temperatures affecting Australia. This alerts us following recent findings that link changes in transport fuels to an increased risk of coral bleaching.

In recent years, significant sections of barrier reefs have experienced severe bleaching due to rising sea temperatures attributed to climate change.

Adjustments made in 2020 to regulations governing fuel composition have led to additional detriment, according to Robert Ryan from the University of Melbourne. These changes have decreased sulfur dioxide emissions, which are protective pollutants for health, but have also eliminated aerosols that contribute to the cooling of marine clouds over the reefs.

In February 2022, Ryan and his team leveraged computer models to analyze the impacts of cloud cover and solar radiation in relation to fuel emissions over a span of 10 days.

They discovered that emissions at the pre-2020 levels would enhance the local cooling effect of clouds and noted that regulations aimed at reducing sulfate aerosol pollution diminished this cooling effect. Consequently, the new transport fuel regulations led to a rise in sea surface temperatures equivalent to 0.25°C, which created coral bleaching conditions that ranged from 21-40% during the studied period.

“There’s been an 80% reduction in sulfate aerosol transport, likely contributing to conditions that favor coral bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef,” states Ryan.

Bjørn Samset from the International Climate Research Centre in Oslo, Norway, asserts that this study will help address critical inquiries regarding the effects of reduced aerosol pollution on the surrounding environment. “The local aerosol influences may be more significant than previously considered, and we still have limited understanding of their impacts on ocean heat waves,” he remarks.

However, he cautions that the findings illustrate evident links between air quality and the conditions of clouds around notable reef systems, though they only represent a brief timeframe and are complex compared to other related research.

Ryan is also involved in efforts to devise methods to artificially cool coral reefs using Marine Cloud Brightening (MCB), a climate intervention technology that involves dispersing ocean salt particles into the atmosphere to amplify the cooling effects of marine clouds.

Researchers suggest that given their recent findings, such artificial cooling measures for large barrier reefs may be more crucial than ever. “If changes in sulfate emissions have diminished the brightening effects of ocean clouds, it could be worth reconsidering their reimplementation in targeted programs,” Ryan explains.

Daniel Harrison from Southern Cross University in Australia emphasizes that their findings indicate that MCBs can effectively cool the reef, mirroring the cooling effects seen with past shipping emissions. “This study highlights the real-world implications of ongoing changes,” he adds. “It confirms that it was indeed effective.”

Harrison has secured funding from the UK’s Advanced Research and Innovation Agency for a five-year initiative to test the MCB in the Great Barrier Reef, asserting that MCB “aims to harmonize our efforts to lower emissions.”

On the other hand, some experts remain skeptical, arguing that there is insufficient evidence to confirm the safety and efficacy of intentional MCBs. Terry Hughes from James Cook University in Queensland, Australia, has stated that previous trials of MCB were “not successful” and produced no compelling evidence that it can reduce the local sea temperatures of the reef.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Elon Musk, His 16-Foot Barrier, and the Ongoing Dispute with His Texas Neighbor

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At first, residents of an upscale cul-de-sac in Westlake Hills, Texas, were unaware of who occupied the 6,900-square-foot, six-bedroom mansion next door.

This changed when construction crews arrived, erecting a 16-foot chain-link fence around the $6 million property. Positioned among four homes on a lush green street, the complex also featured an outward-facing camera. Soon after, a fleet of vehicles, many Tesla models, began to clutter the streets. Security personnel began shifting in and out three times daily. On one occasion, a driver shouted in the middle of the night about seeking a party at “E’s House.”

Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the keypad-controlled gates that frequently opened and closed, causing traffic congestion from workers and vehicles. Even after word spread that their new neighbor was Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest man, many continued to voice complaints regarding his mansion to the city of Westlake Hills.

The discontent escalated, invoking city ordinances, permits, and exceptions. Musk’s housing dilemma was discussed during a contentious zoning and planning committee meeting last month, with further discussions set for the Westlake Hills City Council session on May 14th.

“We need to stop shuttling service workers to other residences, parking cars on quiet streets, and washing vehicles at other homes,” wrote neighbor and primary complainant Paul Hemmer to the Zoning and Planning Commission. His letter was co-signed by residents from two additional homes on the street.

Over recent months, Musk, 53, has disrupted long-standing conventions while criticizing what he views as unnecessary federal bureaucracy. Yet, in his own backyard near Austin, he faces challenges posed by local regulations and intricate red tape, revealing that no one is immune to neighborhood disputes.

Prominent figures like Mark Zuckerberg have experienced similar issues, where disagreements over luxurious properties have tested their wealth and influence. Musk, however, has found himself at odds with local government as he failed to secure permits for the metal gates and fences around his property, which exceeded legal height limits by 10 feet, prompting violations of six city ordinances. Musk’s team later sought retroactive approval following community discontent.

Jim Pledger, one of six commissioners on the Westlake Hills Zoning and Planning Commission, mentioned that he and his colleagues unanimously recommended homeowners refrain from voicing complaints against Musk. “If an exception is made,” Pledger warned, “we’d be inadvertently encouraging rule-breaking.”

Unless the city council votes against this resolution, Musk may face requirements to dismantle the fences and gates and alter them to align with municipal regulations.

Musk did not respond to request for comments, while property managers associated with him refrained from making statements.

Musk’s Texas ventures started relatively recently, moving the operations of several companies from California to the state around 2021. He has established factories for the electric car manufacturer Tesla, the aerospace firm SpaceX, and a tunneling enterprise in Austin and nearby Bastrop.

Additionally, Musk relocated to Austin, initially planning to construct a home for himself and his children on hundreds of acres (he owns at least 13). Afterward, he explored other properties.

In 2022, Musk acquired a Westlake Hills residence through a limited liability company. The home is nestled in a residential area, positioned at the bottom of a sloping two-acre lot adjacent to a narrow public road, complicating security efforts.

“Shouldn’t a castle be on a hill?” remarked Anne Yekel, a longtime Westlake Hills resident living nearby. “These buyers were sophisticated, and if security is the primary concern, this isn’t the right property.”

Musk and his team did not introduce themselves to local residents, and few have encountered him. However, the news of his presence spread quickly within the 3,400-member community.

“It’s common knowledge here,” Yekel noted.

The mansion is one of three properties Musk has purchased in the area over the last three years, forming compounds for his children and their mothers. At one point, Claire Boucher, known as Grimes, resided in the home with Musk and his three children, while his child Shivon Zilis lives about a 10-minute walk away. Musk reportedly purchased another Tuscan-style mansion around a year ago.

Neighbors quickly grew tired of the continuous activity around Musk’s residence, noticing security personnel carrying firearms and an increase in Musk’s heightened security measures. While Texas law permits gun ownership, this level of activity was unexpected.

“I refer to it as Fort Knox,” quipped Hemmer, a retired real estate agent and president of the Neighborhood Homeowners Association, who lives across the street.

The house was tranquil on days when Musk was out of town, and locals noted his frequent absences, especially in recent months, as he advised President Trump. Now, residents are left anticipating Musk’s return, which might mean reduced activities in the capital.

Some neighbors voiced particular frustration about the towering fence at the front and the large metal gates presumably serving as an entrance for staff.

Hemmer, a long-time Tesla owner, grew increasingly frustrated with Musk’s activities and began using drones to monitor the property for any city violations. He formally complained to Westlake Hills officials about various issues, including the fence and the perceived traffic generated by Musk’s security team.

Musk’s security team also contacted the Westlake Hills Police Department regarding Hemmer, as documented in city records. One incident involved a security officer claiming Hemmer was found naked in the street last year.

Hemmer refuted this allegation, stating he was merely wearing black underwear on his property. On another occasion, he explained how he was out walking his dog when he needed to urinate, causing Musk’s camera to capture him in the act.

“The camera caught me,” Hemmer shared. “It’s unsettling to think they’re watching my every move.”

Following Hemmer’s multiple complaints, Westlake Hills officials confirmed that Musk had violated city ordinances regarding the fence and gates. The issue was discussed in the recent planning and zoning committee meeting, focusing on the potential for project diversification.

Before the meeting, Tisha Litta, a licensing expert for Musk’s limited liability company, submitted a letter to the Planning Committee seeking relief from the city’s regulations.

“As high-profile individuals, homeowners face ongoing security threats, making enhanced safety measures crucial,” she wrote. Litta did not return requests for comments.

Hemmer and other residents also wrote to the Planning Commission, cautioning against encouraging “poor behavior” in their otherwise peaceful neighborhood.

For a time, it seemed Musk was on track to triumph in his local disputes. Planning and Zoning officials suggested granting “variances” for his property, which would allow him to keep the fences and make minor modifications. However, at the planning meeting, the commissioners opted against granting Musk any exceptions, questioning Litta about the lack of prior permission for construction.

“I just met the property owners last year, and unfortunately, they were under the guidance of a property manager,” she stated, according to meeting records.

Hemmer also mentioned that he suspected the homeowner might be misleading when he spoke during the meeting.

“If you follow the news, he consistently gets called out for starting projects and only later asking for permission,” he remarked.

One unidentified commissioner expressed disbelief that Westlake Hills staff were advocating for exceptions based on who was making the request.

“It’s astonishing that staff are presenting various recommendations based on who is asking,” she remarked.

Decisions made by the Planning Commission do not finalize the process. Upcoming discussions at the Westlake Hills City Council meeting will determine whether to adhere to the committee’s recommendations regarding Musk’s residence.

Should the city council vote against Musk, he may resort to legal action against the town. If that fails, considering his history with campaigns, there will always be subsequent local elections to anticipate.

Kirsten Neus Contributed research.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Digital ID cards in Poland: A valuable tool or a barrier to progress in e-Government?

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There has been much talk about the potential for Poland’s economy to surpass that of the UK by 2030, but in some aspects, Poland is already ahead.

One such area is the digital ID card and driving license created by Poles, allowing them to access various public services through the mobile app mObywatel. Users must verify their identity through e-banking login, a digitally enabled physical ID card, or a special “trusted profile” online upon initial access.

With 8 million users, the mObywatel app enables Poles to create a digital ID, check demerit points on their driver’s license, review their car history, monitor local air quality, and find their polling place.

Rafał Sionkowski, a senior government official overseeing the app, emphasized the importance of keeping the core developer team within the public institution to ensure immediate public access to the digitized database.

As more EU countries develop similar apps in anticipation of the EU’s eIDAS 2.0 regulation on electronic identification, authentication, and trust services, significant progress is expected.

The regulation, set to be fully implemented by 2026 or 2027, establishes the legal framework for electronic identification systems that can be used across EU borders. Sionkowski noted that digital driving licenses can be presented in Germany and digital IDs in Spain for verification.

A digital version of your Polish driving license can be stored on your smartphone via an app. Photo: SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Images

Sionkowski mentioned plans to enhance the app with new features like notifying insurance companies of accidents and exploring its potential in verifying age online and assisting vulnerable groups in accessing public services.

He stressed the importance of focusing on services that people use, highlighting the value added through features like air quality monitors for local readings.

Privacy lawyer Wojciech Kulikki advocated for adhering to strict privacy principles while adding service features to the app. He cautioned against intrusive features like unauthorized location tracking.

Citizens could have more control over their data either through open-source app development for independent oversight or by checking data accessed by other government departments.

Janusz Ciezynski, a former digital minister, noted the smoother rollout of the app in Poland compared to the UK due to the presence of physical ID cards, quelling concerns about privacy infringements.

Ciezynski expressed enthusiasm for incorporating more public services into a single app, envisioning benefits for disaster-affected areas with quick access to funds through virtual payment cards.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Eliminating Predatory Starfish to Safeguard Great Barrier Reef Coral

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A diver injects vinegar into crown-of-thorns starfish as part of a culling program.

CSIRO

A culling program has successfully protected key areas of the Great Barrier Reef from voracious coral-eating starfish. Scientists who analyzed the results say efforts need to be scaled up to further protect coral reefs.

Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) are persistent predators of almost all types of coral within Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Each starfish reaches a diameter of 1 meter and eats 10 square meters of coral reef each year.

Starfish live on coral reefs, and it is believed that increased nutrient input into reef waters due to agriculture and other human factors is increasing their numbers and exacerbating coral destruction. Between 1985 and 2012, they accounted for 40 percent of coral losses in the region.

When starfish erupted across the reef from 2012 to 2022, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority conducted a massive culling program. A team of divers injects the starfish with a single shot of vinegar or cow bile, which kills the starfish and prevents it from releasing its larvae.

Roger Beeden The Park Service and colleagues found that in areas where timely removals were carried out, outbreaks were limited and coral cover recovered and increased by up to 44%. Where no culling occurred, coral losses were severe. The study also confirmed that by preventing outbreaks on strategically important coral reefs, the larvae do not spread to other reefs on ocean currents, reducing further outbreaks.

To date, the program has focused on 500 of the marine park’s 3,000 reefs scattered throughout the park, which have significant value to the tourism industry or are home to starfish. were chosen because they are known to be important for the spread of

“The results we found in this study are the result of using integrated pest management. [the starfish] Just like managing plague locusts and other pest species, it needs to be done at the right time and on the right reef,” says Beeden.

But researchers recommend expanding the program from the current fleet of five to seven ships to 10 to 15 ships. “At any given time, about a third to a half of his 500 cases are involved in the current outbreak,” Beeden said.

Terry Hughes Researchers at James Cook University in Townsville do not agree that culling programs are worthwhile. “It is becoming increasingly clear that attempts to protect Great Barrier Reef corals by culling crown-of-thorns starfish on a few reefs are just a drop in the ocean,” he says.

Mr Hughes said geographical differences in starfish numbers and coral abundance – which the study attributed to levels of culling in different parts of the Great Barrier Reef – could be explained by which areas had suffered from recent cyclones and coral mass destruction. Events they say could be explained by who is most affected by large-scale bleaching. Professor Beeden acknowledges that it is difficult to separate these factors from the effects of selection, but he says: “Our results are strengthened and are not confounded by the fact that the increase in coral cover in the Townsville region was achieved despite two large-scale bleaching events in 2020 and 2022. do not have” “

Instead, Hughes says the priority should be to tackle global warming, which is accelerating the frequency and intensity of coral bleaching. “Each time there is a bleaching event, the Australian government announces additional funding to eliminate starfish from some coral reefs, shifting the focus away from addressing the causes of these outbreaks and reducing Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions.” he says.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Great Barrier Reef in Australia experiences its fifth major bleaching event in just eight years

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Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is experiencing significant heat-induced coral bleaching once again, as confirmed by the country’s government on Friday.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, responsible for conservation and protection efforts for the reef, stated that widespread bleaching is occurring due to increased heat stress over the summer.

Scientists from the Australian Institute of Marine Science reported that this is the fifth major bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef since 2016.

Coral bleaching poses a serious threat to coral reefs worldwide, triggered by abnormal conditions such as high or cold seawater temperatures and increased acidity. When corals expel photosynthetic algae, they turn white, making them more vulnerable to disease.

While corals can recover from bleaching events, frequent occurrences make it difficult for reefs to bounce back. Climate change is causing ocean temperatures to rise, leading to more frequent bleaching events globally.

The current mass bleaching event on the Great Barrier Reef is consistent with reports of bleaching in coral reefs in the Northern Hemisphere, exacerbated by El Niño and climate change, according to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

On March 5, researchers observed large-scale coral bleaching at a site in the southern Great Barrier Reef.Renata Ferrari / Australian Institute of Marine Science

The agency, in collaboration with scientists from the Australian Institute of Marine Science, conducted an aerial survey covering nearly two-thirds of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park to assess the severity of the bleaching event.

Further research and underwater assessments are necessary to gauge the impact of the ongoing bleaching event, with plans for additional aerial surveys in other reef areas.

While heat stress has not affected the entire reef, variations exist in the extent of bleaching among different areas, as highlighted by Neil Cantin, a senior research scientist at the Australian Institute of Marine Science.

Coral affected by coral bleaching (left), Arlington Reef, Central Barrier Reef, February 27.Grace Frank / Australian Institute of Marine Science

Since the first recorded bleaching event in 1998, with subsequent events in 2002, 2016, 2017, 2020, and 2022, it is clear that coral bleaching incidents are becoming more frequent, posing a significant threat to the Great Barrier Reef.

Efforts are underway to understand the overall condition of the reef and implement effective restoration measures guided by aerial surveys and underwater observations.

David Wachenfeld, the Australian Institute of Marine Science’s research program director, emphasized the urgent need to address climate change to protect the Great Barrier Reef effectively.

“Protecting coral reefs like the Great Barrier Reef from climate change requires global emissions reductions, best practices in local management, interventions to increase climate and reef resilience, and ongoing research and development,” Wachenfeld stated.

Source: www.nbcnews.com