Latest news with #COP26
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Climate activist Ridhima Pandey joins protest against Kalasa-Banduri project
Belagavi: Internationally acclaimed climate activist Ridhima Pandey has joined the fight against the Kalasa-Banduri water diversion project. She will participate in a protest rally organised by various environmental outfits in Belagavi on Tuesday. Since the beginning, environmental activists have opposed the felling of thousands of trees and the irreversible damage to the sensitive forest and environment caused by the implementation of both projects on the Mahadayi River. They also allege a conspiracy by industrial players to take away the Mahadayi water in the name of farmers. With 17-year-old Ridhima Pandey joining the cause, the voice against the water diversion project has grown stronger. Ridhima, who has been a passionate environmental advocate since the age of 9, is recognised globally for her courage, leadership, and relentless pursuit of climate justice. She has become a powerful voice for children and the planet on international platforms. Ridhima's journey began in 2017 when she filed a petition against the govt of India for failing to fulfil its commitments under the Paris Agreement. She argued that while policies existed on paper, real action on the ground was missing. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Lanterna mais potente do mundo chega ao Brasil (é genial!) Lanterna Super Potente Saiba Mais Undo This landmark legal challenge made headlines and established her as one of the youngest climate litigants in the world. In 2019, Ridhima joined 15 other children, including Greta Thunberg, in a historic lawsuit at the United Nations against five countries—Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, and Turkey—for violating the rights of children through inaction on climate change. Ridhima is the president of Red Alert International Steering Committee – Save the Children (Asia Pacific) - Thematic Focal Point for Children's Affairs at CYMG for UNEP. She is also a council member of the Civil Society and Youth Advisory Council for COP26 and an ambassador of Mock COP26. Ridhima is also part of UN Women's '30 for 2030' Network.
Time of India
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
BEE urges Andhra Pradesh to use World Environment Day to promote energy conservation
Visakhapatnam: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the Union ministry of power, has called upon Andhra Pradesh to commemorate the forthcoming on Thursday, June 5, with a focus on energy efficiency, energy conservation, and the broader objectives of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). Tired of too many ads? go ad free now For those unfamiliar, Mission LiFE was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021. In this connection, BEE secretary Milind Deore has addressed a letter to all state designated agencies (SDAs), noting that Mission LiFE advocates responsible consumption, climate-positive actions, and sustainable lifestyles. "A central component of this initiative is promoting practices that reduce energy demand and carbon footprints, which directly supports India's long-term environmental and economic goals," said Deore. "As part of BEE's energy efficiency drive in both commercial and residential sectors, SDAs are urged to actively campaign for maintaining air conditioner temperature settings at 24°C or higher. They should also encourage behaviour-based energy-saving practices such as switching off lights and appliances when not in use, maximising the use of natural light and ventilation, and shifting to LED lighting and other energy-efficient alternatives," added Deore. Proactive SDAs, including the Andhra Pradesh State Energy Conservation Mission (APSECM), are encouraged to implement several key initiatives to promote energy efficiency. According to A Chandra Shekhara Reddy, media adviser – southern states/UTs, BEE, these include advocating the widespread use of five-star rated energy-efficient appliances—particularly air conditioners, refrigerators, and ceiling fans, which significantly reduce electricity consumption and costs. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Public awareness drives should be conducted to help consumers identify and choose energy-efficient products certified under BEE's Star Labelling Programme. Collaboration with state environment departments and local institutions is essential to disseminate information about Mission LiFE's 75 non-disruptive lifestyle changes, with energy efficiency as a central theme. "Illustrating the potential impact, simply setting air conditioners at 24°C can lead to substantial energy savings across millions of households. Promoting five-star rated appliances could reduce electricity demand by several billion kilowatt-hours (kWh). Behavioural changes and conscious consumption are projected to contribute to a saving of 22.5 billion kWh under Mission LiFE. BEE also recommends the use of solar water heaters and cookers to lessen dependence on conventional fuels, the adoption of CNG or electric vehicles and bicycles for short distances, and the implementation of water conservation measures and eco-friendly building practices," said Chandra Shekhara Reddy. Visakhapatnam: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the Union ministry of power, has called upon Andhra Pradesh to commemorate the forthcoming World Environment Day on Thursday, June 5, with a focus on energy efficiency, energy conservation, and the broader objectives of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). For those unfamiliar, Mission LiFE was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021. In this connection, BEE secretary Milind Deore has addressed a letter to all state designated agencies (SDAs), noting that Mission LiFE advocates responsible consumption, climate-positive actions, and sustainable lifestyles. "A central component of this initiative is promoting practices that reduce energy demand and carbon footprints, which directly supports India's long-term environmental and economic goals," said Deore. "As part of BEE's energy efficiency drive in both commercial and residential sectors, SDAs are urged to actively campaign for maintaining air conditioner temperature settings at 24°C or higher. They should also encourage behaviour-based energy-saving practices such as switching off lights and appliances when not in use, maximising the use of natural light and ventilation, and shifting to LED lighting and other energy-efficient alternatives," added Deore. Proactive SDAs, including the Andhra Pradesh State Energy Conservation Mission (APSECM), are encouraged to implement several key initiatives to promote energy efficiency. According to A Chandra Shekhara Reddy, media adviser – southern states/UTs, BEE, these include advocating the widespread use of five-star rated energy-efficient appliances—particularly air conditioners, refrigerators, and ceiling fans, which significantly reduce electricity consumption and costs. Public awareness drives should be conducted to help consumers identify and choose energy-efficient products certified under BEE's Star Labelling Programme. Collaboration with state environment departments and local institutions is essential to disseminate information about Mission LiFE's 75 non-disruptive lifestyle changes, with energy efficiency as a central theme. "Illustrating the potential impact, simply setting air conditioners at 24°C can lead to substantial energy savings across millions of households. Promoting five-star rated appliances could reduce electricity demand by several billion kilowatt-hours (kWh). Behavioural changes and conscious consumption are projected to contribute to a saving of 22.5 billion kWh under Mission LiFE. BEE also recommends the use of solar water heaters and cookers to lessen dependence on conventional fuels, the adoption of CNG or electric vehicles and bicycles for short distances, and the implementation of water conservation measures and eco-friendly building practices," said Chandra Shekhara Reddy.
Egypt Today
25-05-2025
- Business
- Egypt Today
Egypt's Minister of Environment: Food Security a Golden Opportunity to Link Adaptation, Biodiversity, and Desertification
Egyptian Minister of Environment, Yasmine Fouad meets with Ambassador Seyni Nafo, Coordinator of the African Adaptation Initiative (AAI) in Cairo- press photo CAIRO – 25 May 2025: Egyptian Minister of Environment, Yasmine Fouad, emphasized that food security presents a golden opportunity to connect climate adaptation, biodiversity, and desertification efforts. This comes in light of the release of the 2030 Global Biodiversity Framework, which places climate at its core, alongside the political momentum generated during the recent COP16 Desertification Conference and the mobilization of financial resources to address these challenges, she added. Fouad underscored the urgent need to secure food systems amidst a growing global food crisis, intensified by climate change and compounded by ongoing geopolitical instability. She made these remarks during a meeting with Ambassador Seyni Nafo, Coordinator of the African Adaptation Initiative (AAI). She also highlighted the potential to replicate successful models from the renewable energy sector to de-risk investments in food security—particularly for the private sector and smallholder farmers. Egypt's renewable energy success, especially the Benban Solar Park—funded with approximately $475 million—was made possible through strategic policies adopted since 2015 and development partner support, the minister said. The meeting was attended by representatives including the Spokesperson for the African Negotiating Group, a member of the Board of Directors of the Green Climate Fund, and their accompanying delegation. Egypt to Host 10th Anniversary of AAI Launch Discussions focused on accelerating the AAI's role in addressing Africa's climate needs and preparing for the celebration of the initiative's 10th anniversary, which was launched by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in 2015. Also present were Dr. Ali Abu Senna, Head of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency, and Ms. Soha Taher, Head of the Central Department for Climate Change and International Cooperation. Fouad expressed her pride in the African Adaptation Initiative, describing it as a historic turning point for Africa. She emphasized that it was not merely a mechanism for mobilizing climate finance, but a model of continental unity—Africa coming together to define and act on its own needs. Despite receiving less international attention compared to the African Renewable Energy Initiative, the AAI remains critical, particularly as adaptation becomes a continental priority. She noted that COP26 in Glasgow marked a significant shift in elevating the profile of adaptation. Dr. Fouad also called for adaptation goals to be translated into investment opportunities. This involves transforming national adaptation plans into project packages with technical support from international institutions, offering replicable implementation models for the continent. She further highlighted Egypt's work on an interactive climate risk map as part of its National Adaptation Plan, aimed at identifying climate risks to agriculture. Additionally, the Climate Finance System project—developed with the French Development Agency (AFD) and the Green Climate Fund—prepares Egyptian banks to engage with climate financing, which differs from traditional sustainability financing. The Central Bank of Egypt has also mandated that banks assess climate risk for all funded projects. Egypt hosts the African Center of Excellence for Resilience and Adaptation under NEPAD, focusing on climate change impacts in agriculture and food security. The center plays a key role in fostering a supportive climate for investment and finance. She proposed launching joint activities with a national bank and development partners to reduce food security investment risks. She also called for coordination at the Arab level and integrating the African Adaptation Initiative into the agenda of the Council of Arab Environment Ministers meeting in October. Ambassador Nafo: Food Security and Adaptation Must Be Transformed into Action Ambassador Seyni Nafo emphasized the importance of converting adaptation goals and national plans into actionable projects and investments—an ongoing challenge for the African continent. He noted that the upcoming 10th anniversary celebration of the AAI would mark a renewed push for concrete implementation, and Egypt was chosen as host in recognition of its leadership in advancing Africa's adaptation agenda. Nafo pointed out that food security, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, will be the top priority going forward. He stressed the need for stronger engagement with financial institutions to recognize agriculture's role as a key economic driver. Some African countries have already initiated programs to help banks assess and manage investment risks, with Egypt well-positioned to adopt and lead such efforts. He also discussed the rollout of a training program for climate specialists in Africa, aimed at facilitating access to adaptation finance and strengthening public-private collaboration. The program supports the accreditation of African entities by the Green Climate Fund and promotes private sector involvement in climate solutions, financing, and technology transfer.
The National
23-05-2025
- Politics
- The National
Glasgow Labour councillor guilty of stalking former partner
Philip Braat, 49, committed the crime against the woman at a property near Glasgow city centre between July and September 2024. Braat has represented the Anderston/City/Yorkhill ward since 2007 and is subject to an investigation by Scottish Labour. Braat was the deputy Lord Provost in 2017 before taking on the senior role in 2020 until 2022. READ MORE: 'Absurd': Scottish Labour's energy bills claim knocked back Braat was also the former convener of the Strathclyde Police Authority (SPA) and represented Glasgow at COP26. Braat was a member of the Law Society of Scotland, an honorary captain in the Royal Navy Reserves, and a member of the Glasgow Tree Lovers' Society. His career now faces ruin after he pleaded guilty today at Glasgow Sheriff Court to a single charge of stalking. Court papers state Braat refused to accept the end of his relationship with the woman. Braat sent her an email containing alleged communication to his employer that he was considering his resignation. READ MORE: Scottish Labour transparency row over by-election candidate links to scandal-hit firm He sent her a further email containing communication supposedly sent to a police officer. Braat also uttered remarks during a phone call, in messages and emails suggesting that he would harm himself. Braat had been requested to stop contact. However, he contacted her via emails, text messages, social media messages and notifications, as well as phone calls which were unwanted. Further allegations appeared on his charge sheet which were deleted by The Crown. This included that Braat allegedly repeatedly attended at her home address and left unwanted gifts outside her front door. It was also claimed he placed a banner with handwriting on the wall in the communal close. Braat had been further accused of writing abusive remarks on her front door and wall. Another deleted allegation said that he left unwanted portraits of her at her front door and sent a typewritten letter to her place of work which contained derogatory remarks towards her. Solicitor advocate Andrew Seggie will make his plea in mitigation at next month's sentencing where more information surrounding the facts of the case will be heard.
The Herald Scotland
23-05-2025
- The Herald Scotland
Former Glasgow Lord Provost admits stalking ex-partner
Braat has represented the Anderston/City/Yorkhill ward since 2007 and is subject to an investigation by Scottish Labour. Braat was the deputy Lord Provost in 2017 before taking on the senior role in 2020 until 2022. He left the position after the 2019 resignation of Eva Bolander amid criticism of her expenses claims. READ MORE: Former Glasgow Lord Provost accused of stalking ex-partner Braat was also the former convener of the Strathclyde Police Authority (SPA) and represented Glasgow at COP26. Braat was a member of the Law Society of Scotland, an honorary captain in the Royal Navy Reserves, and a member of the Glasgow Tree Lovers' Society. His career now faces ruin after he pleaded guilty today at Glasgow Sheriff Court to a single charge of stalking. Court papers state Braat refused to accept the end of his relationship with the woman. Braat sent her an email containing alleged communication to his employer that he was considering his resignation. Braat pleaded guilty today at Glasgow Sheriff Court to a single charge of stalking He sent her a further email containing communication supposedly sent to a police officer. Braat also uttered remarks during a phone call, in messages and emails suggesting that he would harm himself. Braat had been requested to stop contact. However, he contacted her via emails, text messages, social media messages and notifications, as well as phone calls which were unwanted. Further allegations appeared on his charge sheet which were deleted by The Crown. This included that Braat allegedly repeatedly attended at her home address and left unwanted gifts outside her front door. It was also claimed he placed a banner with handwriting on the wall in the communal close. Braat had been further accused of writing abusive remarks on her front door and wall. Another deleted allegation said that he left unwanted portraits of her at her front door and sent a typewritten letter to her place of work which contained derogatory remarks towards her. Solicitor advocate Andrew Seggie will make his plea in mitigation at next month's sentencing where more information surrounding the facts of the case will be heard.
