Latest news with #Carbon
The Hindu
4 days ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Energy Management Centre to establish Carbon Credit Facilitation Centre
The Energy Management Centre - Kerala (EMC) has announced plans to establish a Carbon Credit Facilitation Centre. The establishment of the centre is aimed at assisting public and private institutions in the State to secure carbon credits. The EMC has decided to empanel six consultancy firms specialising in carbon-credit marketing to support the new centre, EMC director R. Harikumar said. The EMC announced its plans for the facilitation centre during a workshop on 'Demystifying Carbon Credit' held as part of the World Environment Day celebrations on June 5. Mr. Harikumar highlighted the centre's role in supporting carbon neutrality projects. 'At present, government institutions seeking to obtain carbon credits have to individually invite tenders and appoint consultancies. The facilitation centre will help them avoid such hassles. Private institutions also can seek help from it for securing the credits,' Mr. Harikumar said. The decision to set up the facility also follows the establishment of the National carbon credit and marketing system, enabled by amendments to the Energy Conservation Act at the national level. In Kerala, the EMC is the nodal agency for energy conservation activities. Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty inaugurated the workshop. Puneet Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary (Power), emphasised the potential of carbon credit mechanisms in reducing emissions and generating revenue. Kadakampally Surendran, MLA, presided.
France 24
6 days ago
- Politics
- France 24
EU eyes 'leadership' role on oceans ahead of UN summit
The 27-nation bloc wants to position itself as a leader in the field and will formally launch the "European Ocean Pact" at next week's conference in the French city of Nice. But a draft leaked last month was given short shrift by a coalition of environmental groups including Surfrider, WWF, ClientEarth and Oceana -- who saw it as largely rehashing old measures. "While the document outlines steps towards better enforcement of existing laws," they said in a joint statement, "concrete actions to address the most pressing threats to marine life and biodiversity are currently lacking." The draft pact acknowledges the need to boost funding to safeguard the oceans, but is light on hard commitments. Topping the list of measures environmentalists would like to see is an immediate ban on bottom trawling in protected areas -- the subject of a string of court cases -- as well as broader steps to align fishing practices with marine protection. On the European Commission front, officials have pushed back at the criticism -- indicating the leaked document was an interim draft and suggested stronger measures to come. 'Blue economy' to 'blue carbon' Forty percent of Europeans live within 50 kilometres (30 miles) of the coast -- though paradoxically the bloc is dependent on imports for 70 of the aquatic food it consumes, according to EU data cited in the draft. Nevertheless, the so-called "blue economy" linked to the sea supports more than five million jobs and contributes more than 250 billion euros ($285 billion) to the bloc's gross domestic product. As leaked, the draft pact: -- vows to update the bloc's 2008 directive on marine environmental policy and promises a new "Blue Carbon" action plan by 2026 to monitor and extend habitats capable of storing carbon dioxide. -- promises "dedicated attention" to small-scale fisheries and coastal communities that are economically and environmentally vulnerable when marine habitats are degraded. -- pledges to improve use of the European Satellite Oil Monitoring Service (CleanSeaNet), which serves to alert member states to the presence of pollutants. Between 2022 and 2023, the CleanSeaNet system identified more than 7,700 possible oil spills -- mostly in Spain, Greece and Italy -- but states acted on fewer than half of all alerts, according to the European Court of Auditors. When they did act, states confirmed pollution in only seven percent of cases -- often because too much time had elapsed by the time inspection teams arrived on site. 'Clear signal' After unveiling its roadmap in Brussels, the EU will formally present it at the June 9-13 UN Ocean Conference (UNOC), which is set to draw some 70 heads of state and government to southern France. The third of its kind, the UN summit seeks to build unity -- and raise 100 billion dollars in new funds -- for marine conservation, in spite of deep divergences over deep-sea mining, plastic trash and overfishing. One of its aims is to secure the 60 ratifications needed to enact a landmark treaty to protect marine habitats outside national jurisdiction -- with 28 countries on board so far, along with the EU. The oceans covering 70.8 percent of the globe have absorbed the vast majority of the warming caused by burning fossil fuels and shielded societies from the full impact of greenhouse gas emissions. But there are alarming symptoms of stress: heatwaves, loss of marine life, rising sea levels, falling oxygen levels and acidification caused by the uptake of excess carbon dioxide. The EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis said earlier this month the bloc wanted to send "a clear signal of Europe's leadership, commitment and vision" to its partners in Nice. "The ocean is warming. It is rising. It is acidifying. Pollution from plastics, chemicals, and noise is altering marine ecosystems," Kadis warned.
Time Business News
02-06-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
A Guide to Low-Interest Personal Loans in Nigeria
Low-interest personal loans have become an important financial solution for many Nigerians who need access to affordable credit. These loans offer individuals a chance to borrow money at reduced interest rates compared to traditional lending options. With the rise of digital lending platforms, microfinance institutions, and FinTech companies, Nigerians can now apply for loans quickly and conveniently, often without the need for collateral. This type of loan is particularly useful for meeting urgent expenses such as medical bills, school fees, business capital, or emergency repairs. For salary earners and small business owners, low-interest loans provide manageable repayment options that fit within monthly budgets. Before applying, however, it is vital to understand how these loans work, the typical requirements, and how to choose a reliable lender to avoid financial pitfalls. Low-interest personal loans are generally unsecured, meaning borrowers do not have to pledge assets to access the funds. The interest rates on these loans tend to be significantly lower than those offered by traditional banks or payday lenders, making repayments more affordable. In Nigeria, interest rates can range from about 1% to 5% monthly, depending on the lender and the borrower's credit profile. Such loans are widely used to cover short-term financial needs that cannot wait until savings accumulate. For instance, a family may use a low-interest loan to pay school fees promptly, while an entrepreneur might invest in inventory or equipment to grow their business. The appeal of these loans lies in their flexibility, accessibility, and often quick approval times. Eligibility for low-interest personal loans in Nigeria typically depends on the borrower's ability to demonstrate steady income or business revenue. Salary earners with regular pay slips and bank statements are usually the easiest to qualify. Small business owners can also apply, although they may need to provide additional proof of consistent cash flow. Some lenders extend loan services to self-employed individuals and students, although this varies widely between platforms. The documentation requirements commonly include valid identification, proof of income, bank account details, and sometimes a guarantor. Borrowers should carefully prepare these documents to streamline the application process. Several popular platforms in Nigeria offer competitive low-interest personal loans. Digital lenders like Migo, Carbon, FairMoney, Branch, and Aella Credit have transformed access to credit by using technology to simplify lending. These platforms allow users to apply via mobile apps, websites, USSD codes, and even social media channels such as WhatsApp and Facebook. Many of these services provide loans without collateral and promise quick disbursement, often within minutes of approval. In addition to digital lenders, some commercial banks offer discounted personal loan products, especially to their salary account holders. It is important to compare these options carefully to identify which lender offers the best interest rates, transparent terms, and convenient repayment plans. The process of applying for a low-interest personal loan is straightforward on most platforms. After selecting a lender, the borrower registers an account and submits required documentation such as their Bank Verification Number (BVN), salary slips, and bank statements. The lender then assesses the application based on the borrower's creditworthiness and income level. Approval times vary but can be as quick as a few minutes to a few hours. Once approved, the loan amount is transferred directly to the borrower's bank account or mobile wallet. This digital efficiency has made personal loans more accessible across Nigeria, especially for those without traditional banking relationships. Managing loans wisely is key to maintaining financial health. Borrowers should only take out loans they can afford to repay comfortably within the agreed timeframe. It is important to understand the full cost of borrowing, including interest rates and any applicable fees, before accepting a loan offer. Using loan funds for essential needs or productive investments ensures that the borrowed money has a positive impact. Timely repayment is crucial to avoid penalties and to build a good credit history that can facilitate access to larger loans in the future. Borrowers should also avoid juggling multiple loans simultaneously, as this can lead to financial strain and increased risk of default. The benefits of low-interest personal loans extend beyond simple access to credit. They help reduce repayment stress due to affordable monthly installments. Quick loan approval and disbursement meet urgent financial needs without delay. The lack of collateral requirements makes loans accessible to a broader segment of the population, including those who may not own property or assets. Flexible repayment plans provide borrowers with options that align with their cash flow. Additionally, timely repayment on these loans helps build credit profiles, making it easier for individuals and businesses to access credit in the future. The convenience of digital applications through smartphones and USSD codes adds to the overall user experience. Accessing low-interest personal loans in Nigeria has become easier due to digital innovation and growing financial inclusion. Whether you're a salary earner or a small business owner, the right loan can help you cover urgent needs without financial stress. But before applying, it is essential to understand all loan terms, including the interest rate, repayment period, and associated fees. Comparing multiple lenders gives you the advantage of finding the best offer for your situation. Responsible borrowing is key — it's not just about getting money fast, but also about repaying it without harming your financial health. Avoid falling into debt traps by planning your repayments wisely. Always read the fine print and ask questions if anything seems unclear. Financial education is crucial in navigating Nigeria's growing credit landscape. With smart decisions, personal loans can support your goals. Use this guide as a foundation to borrow better and smarter. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Scoop
06-05-2025
- Science
- Scoop
New Monitoring Technique For Nanocomposites To Streamline Manufacturing And Property Tracking
Press Release – Skoltech Advanced composite monitoring currently relies on techniques which are either specialized for material manufacturing or application stages. They are often not interchangeable, and we wanted to essentially positively disrupt the way things are done for nanocomposites. Moscow, 6 May 2025 The Skoltech Laboratory of Nanomaterials, along with the Institute's Hierarchically Structured Materials Laboratory and Materials Center, have proposed a novel dual-stage monitoring technique for multifunctional polymer nanocomposites. The study, published in the Carbon journal, describes how nanomaterials at different size scales can be synergistically combined to monitor advanced materials both during their manufacturing and application. The technique has the potential to streamline manufacturing and property tracking, as well as provide information on material health status during application, all while causing no mechanical property loss to the host material. 'Advanced composite monitoring currently relies on techniques which are either specialized for material manufacturing or application stages. They are often not interchangeable, and we wanted to essentially positively disrupt the way things are done for nanocomposites. We came up with a facile and versatile technique to streamline the process for both stages using a single step, with exceptional suitability for next-generation multifunctional nanocomposites,' said Research Scientist Hassaan Ahmad Butt from the Laboratory of Nanomaterials and lead author of the study. Assistant Professor Dmitry Krasnikov, the co-supervisor of the work, commented, 'The idea behind the work was to design a materials-based monitoring technique, which prepares the field for coming industrial products. I believe old monitoring techniques, such as interlayers and embedded devices, have just lost a significant part of their relevance. By simply placing carbon nanotube fibers (CNTFs) into the nanocomposites during their manufacturing, we are able to monitor the entire production process and variables. The CNTFs don't need to be removed since they cause no change in mechanical performance and can be utilized to provide information on material damage, strain, and a host of other factors during their service life.' Professor Albert Nasibulin, the head of the Laboratory of Nanomaterials, elaborated on how such state-of-the-art nanomaterials and technologies are developed at his lab, 'Our aim has always been to develop nanomaterials and their technologies which are practically applicable and attractive for the industry. The single-walled carbon nanotube fiber manufacturing technology was home grown in our lab, as are the nanocomposite production routes. This publication showcases how we combine our strengths with our national and international academic partners to come up with cutting-edge technology, which can easily be scaled-up and applied.' Skoltech is a private international university in Russia, cultivating a new generation of leaders in technology, science, and business. As a factory of technologies, it conducts research in breakthrough fields and promotes technological innovation to solve critical problems that face Russia and the world. Skoltech focuses on six priority areas: life sciences, health, and agro; telecommunications, photonics, and quantum technologies; artificial intelligence; advanced materials and engineering; energy efficiency and the energy transition; and advanced studies. Established in 2011 in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Skoltech was listed among the world's top 100 young universities by the Nature Index in its both editions (2019, 2021). On the Institute ranks as Russian university No. 2 overall and No. 1 for genetics and materials science. In the recent SCImago Institutions Rankings, Skoltech placed first nationwide for computer science. Website:
Scoop
06-05-2025
- Science
- Scoop
New Monitoring Technique For Nanocomposites To Streamline Manufacturing And Property Tracking
Moscow, 6 May 2025 The Skoltech Laboratory of Nanomaterials, along with the Institute's Hierarchically Structured Materials Laboratory and Materials Center, have proposed a novel dual-stage monitoring technique for multifunctional polymer nanocomposites. The study, published in the Carbon journal, describes how nanomaterials at different size scales can be synergistically combined to monitor advanced materials both during their manufacturing and application. The technique has the potential to streamline manufacturing and property tracking, as well as provide information on material health status during application, all while causing no mechanical property loss to the host material. 'Advanced composite monitoring currently relies on techniques which are either specialized for material manufacturing or application stages. They are often not interchangeable, and we wanted to essentially positively disrupt the way things are done for nanocomposites. We came up with a facile and versatile technique to streamline the process for both stages using a single step, with exceptional suitability for next-generation multifunctional nanocomposites,' said Research Scientist Hassaan Ahmad Butt from the Laboratory of Nanomaterials and lead author of the study. Assistant Professor Dmitry Krasnikov, the co-supervisor of the work, commented, 'The idea behind the work was to design a materials-based monitoring technique, which prepares the field for coming industrial products. I believe old monitoring techniques, such as interlayers and embedded devices, have just lost a significant part of their relevance. By simply placing carbon nanotube fibers (CNTFs) into the nanocomposites during their manufacturing, we are able to monitor the entire production process and variables. The CNTFs don't need to be removed since they cause no change in mechanical performance and can be utilized to provide information on material damage, strain, and a host of other factors during their service life.' Professor Albert Nasibulin, the head of the Laboratory of Nanomaterials, elaborated on how such state-of-the-art nanomaterials and technologies are developed at his lab, 'Our aim has always been to develop nanomaterials and their technologies which are practically applicable and attractive for the industry. The single-walled carbon nanotube fiber manufacturing technology was home grown in our lab, as are the nanocomposite production routes. This publication showcases how we combine our strengths with our national and international academic partners to come up with cutting-edge technology, which can easily be scaled-up and applied.' Skoltech is a private international university in Russia, cultivating a new generation of leaders in technology, science, and business. As a factory of technologies, it conducts research in breakthrough fields and promotes technological innovation to solve critical problems that face Russia and the world. Skoltech focuses on six priority areas: life sciences, health, and agro; telecommunications, photonics, and quantum technologies; artificial intelligence; advanced materials and engineering; energy efficiency and the energy transition; and advanced studies. Established in 2011 in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Skoltech was listed among the world's top 100 young universities by the Nature Index in its both editions (2019, 2021). On the Institute ranks as Russian university No. 2 overall and No. 1 for genetics and materials science. In the recent SCImago Institutions Rankings, Skoltech placed first nationwide for computer science. Website:
