Latest news with #Cop
Irish Examiner
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Irish Examiner
World faces new danger of 'economic denial' in climate fight, Cop30 head says
The world is facing a new form of climate denial – not the dismissal of climate science, but a concerted attack on the idea that the economy can be re-organised to fight the crisis, the president of global climate talks has warned. André Corrêa do Lago, the veteran Brazilian diplomat who will direct this year's UN summit, Cop30, believes his biggest job will be to counter the attempt from some vested interests to prevent climate policies aimed at shifting the global economy to a low-carbon footing. 'There is a new kind of opposition to climate action. We are facing a discredit of climate policies. I don't think we are facing climate denial,' he said, referring to the increasingly desperate attempts to pretend there is no consensus on climate science that have plagued climate action for the past 30 years. It's not a scientific denial, it's an economic denial. This economic denial could be just as dangerous and cause as much delay as repeated attempts to deny climate science in previous years, he warned. As the climate crisis has gathered pace, temperatures have risen and the effects of extreme weather have become more obvious, scientists have been able to draw ever more clearly the links between greenhouse gas emissions and our impacts on the planet. So the argument has shifted, Corrêa do Lago believes, from undermining or misrepresenting the science to attempts to counter climate policy. 'It is not possible to have [scientific] denialism at this stage, after everything that has happened in recent years. So there is a migration from scientific denial to a denial that economic measures against climate change can be good for the economy and for people.' The rise of populist politicians around the world has fuelled a backlash against climate policy, most clearly seen in the presidency of Donald Trump in the US, where he has set about cancelling policies intended to boost renewable energy and cut greenhouse gases, and dismantling all forms of government-sponsored climate-related institutions, including scientific research labs. Corrêa do Lago wants to spur a new global effort to persuade people that remodelling the economy away from a reliance on fossil fuels and towards a clean energy future will reap benefits for all people. 'The new populism is trying to show [that tackling the climate crisis does not work],' he said. 'It's the turn of those who believe in the fight against climate change to show and to prove that fighting climate change is possible, and that it can come with economic advantages and with a better quality of life.' Corrêa do Lago faces the task of corralling 196 nations into producing new national plans on greenhouse gas emissions within the next few months, and meanwhile Brazil is already wrestling with the logistical challenges of holding Cop30 in a rainforest. There was controversy earlier this year over a road being built through the forest to the city, though Brazilian officials said the road had already been planned before Cop30 was awarded to Belém. There are also concerns about the environmental credentials of the Brazilian president as his government continues to approve mines and oil drilling projects. The Guardian Read More UN told current Cop is no longer fit to deliver climate change
IOL News
26-05-2025
- General
- IOL News
Cooking with the heart: Durban's kitchen of unseen possibility
Sanjay Bhimjee, measuring flour using Braille measuring spoon at the KZN Blind and Deaf Society Blind Culinary School. Image: Supplied Myron Naicker The scent of warm vanilla and golden-brown scones curled through the air, a silent announcement of defiance. In a sunlit kitchen in central Durban, hands moved with precision, measuring and kneading. Plating, guided by memory, touch and an unshakeable belief. Veetha Sewkuran, the president of the KZN Blind and Deaf Society, where the Blind Culinary School is based, stood amid the hum of clattering bowls and eager voices. "This kitchen," she said, her voice steady as a metronome, "is not just about cooking. It's about serving pride, purpose and possibility." Funded by the Dr. Vasan Govind Foundation, it is the first of its kind in South Africa. The school was opened recently with the good doctor watching on. He was a pioneering health professional, qualifying as one of the first surgeons of colour during the 70's. Eager student, Bongiwe Mbeko buttering a slice of bread at the KZN Blind and Dead Society Culinary School. Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading The world already knew it was possible. In 2012, Christine Ha, a blind home cook from Texas, didn't just compete on MasterChef—she dominated it. With her signature Vietnamese braised pork belly and crème brûlée, she won the competition's third season, becoming the first visually impaired chef to claim the title. Gordon Ramsay called her dishes "extraordinary". The world called it a miracle. Ha said simply, 'I cook with my heart. I don't need sight to see what's inside of me.' That quote became Sewkuran's rallying cry."When I saw Christine on TV, I realised that we're not asking for charity here. We're demanding recognition that blind chefs belong in professional kitchens," she said. Now, a decade later, this school is turning that vision into reality, one student at a time. We live in a country where the fight to protect the rights of visually impaired and blind people is an ongoing battle. President Cyril Ramaphosa's failure to sign the Copyright Amendment Bill, which left them without access to adapted books and materials is a cutting case in point. In short, South Africa's Copyright Act was outdated; it didn't ensure books, textbooks, or other literature could be easily adapted into Braille or audiobooks for blind people. This meant many visually impaired students couldn't access the same materials as everyone else. KZN Blind and Deaf Society President Mrs Veetha Sewkuran with Dr Vasan Govind sponsor of the KZN Blind and Deaf Society Culinary School for the Blind Image: Supplied President Ramaphosa was supposed to fix this by signing the Copyright Amendment Bill into law, but he delayed for years. The campaign was led by Blind SA, a non-profit organisation which focuses on the empowerment of blind and partially sighted persons, who refused to allow the government's lackadaisical approach to hinder their fight. Last December, the Constitutional Court granted an order which provided access—a victory for all those marginalised by the bill. The apex court in the country were simply holding true one of the constitution's foundational values: human dignity. This culinary school stands as both a triumph and a quiet rebellion. For too long, the blind and visually impaired in South Africa have faced systemic neglect, from education to employment. The unemployment rate among disabled South Africans hovers near a staggering 97%, a statistic that highlights deeper societal barriers. Situated in central Durban, the school's location is no accident. Here, in the heart of a bustling city where opportunity should be abundant, the visually impaired have often been left on the margins. Public transport is rarely accommodating, workplaces lack accessibility, and societal attitudes remain stubbornly outdated. "People see the cane, not the person," Sewkuran noted. "They assume we can't contribute. This kitchen is where we prove them wrong." The school's 12-week intensive programme, guided by volunteer professional chefs, is designed to do more than teach recipes; it's a lifeline to self-sufficiency. Students learn not only how to bake scones or simmer sauces but also how to navigate a world built for the sighted. Tactile markers line the kitchen floors, Braille labels identify ingredients, and instructors emphasise sound and touch over visual cues. "We don't need pity," said one student, her hands deftly shaping dough. "We need opportunity." As Australian writer Barbara Blackman said, "Blindness is just another way of seeing." For many, the skills learned here will be transformative. Some graduates may start home businesses, selling preserves or baked goods at local markets. Others will gain the confidence to cook for their families, a simple act that carries profound dignity. "Blind parents deserve to feed their children with their own hands," Sewkuran said. "This isn't just about food. It's about reclaiming autonomy." The school's impact extends beyond its students. By partnering with local restaurants and food businesses, Sewkuran hopes to challenge perceptions and open doors for future employment. "Imagine a Durban where blind chefs are not an exception but a celebrated part of our culinary landscape," she mused. Already, the first cohort's success has sparked conversations with other disability organisations about replicating the model nationwide. Yet, the road ahead is steep. Without broader legislative and societal change—like the full implementation of the Copyright Amendment Act to ensure accessible materials—schools like this remain rare bright spots in an otherwise uneven landscape. "We're planting a seed," Sewkuran said. "But for it to grow, the whole country must till the soil." As the afternoon sun slanted through the kitchen windows, the students gathered to share their creations— scrumptious scones and delicious sandwiches, it is but a hearty and emotional start. Each dish was a testament to what happens when barriers are replaced with belief. ** Myron Naicker is an award winning South African journalist. He is has done work in television, radio and print journalism.
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Yahoo
‘I was amazed': Elementary-age students get special tour of San Diego cruise ship
Students from Perkins Elementary School in Barrio Logan experienced a unique educational opportunity on Wednesday as they boarded Holland America's Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship for a field trip. The trip allowed the fourth graders to explore the ship and learn about various maritime jobs, offering them a glimpse into potential future career paths. 'Education is more than what we learn in the classroom,' said Fernando Hernandez, the principal of Perkins Elementary School. The students had the opportunity to explore the exciting features through the 11 decks of the Nieuw Amsterdam, which can accommodate about 3,000 passengers, including the crew. They visited various departments on board, including the bridge, and got to ask the staff questions about the ship's operations. For many of the students, this was their first time on a cruise ship. 'It felt like we were going to drive the ship,' said Joseph Arvayo, a fourth grader. 'I was amazed by the pool and the elevator,' said Miah Parada, another fourth-grade student. Other students, like Valerie Martinez, were amazed by the all-you-can-eat food available on cruises: 'My favorite part about the ship is the food, I had like a bunch of fries, a bunch of sodas,' she said. 'I had a hamburger and a pizza.' Along on the field trip were three San Diego Harbor Police Officers. The Harbor Police Department Foundation partners with Perkins Elementary through weekly readings with a cop, and other events including, Fish with a Cop and Shop with a Cop. Officer Gary Page spend several days a week reading to the students, helping their reading levels while also building positive relationships between the students and law enforcement. 'It becomes a welcoming presence and it gives them approval to trust police officers,' he said. Principal Hernandez highlighted the importance of exposing students to new experiences, noting that around 35% of the students at Perkins experience some form of homelessness and many of them are isolated due to their circumstances. 'This is how we plant seeds,' he said, referring to the potential for the students to see opportunities beyond their current environment. As the cruise ship prepares to set sail for its new port home in Canada, the students from Perkins carry with them new memories and aspirations. All facts from this article were gathered by FOX 5/KUSI journalists. This article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by FOX 5/KUSI staff. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The Independent
30-04-2025
- Politics
- The Independent
How Blair has changed the agenda for Labour on climate change
It is a little ironic that it has fallen to Sir Tony Blair, who last fought a general election 20 years ago and is unlikely to stand again in any such contest, to point out some hard or 'inconvenient' facts to his colleagues who are practising politicians and presently in government. He has lost none of his instinct for judging public opinion and is as incisive and perceptive as ever. Outside government, but not exactly outside politics, he can say things that are 'unhelpful' but must be faced up to. He is a friendly critic – although, as he is at pains to make clear, Sir Tony remains supportive of the government and the 2050 net zero target. The foreword he has contributed to the latest report on energy and climate from the Tony Blair Institute (TBI) has provoked heated argument – and rightly so. These are important, transcendent matters and have to be right – for the sake of the future of the planet and the living standards of people in Britain. Sir Tony has changed the agenda for Labour on climate change. For some time, the arguments on climate change and energy policy have drifted away from practical action and descended into just another totemic battle in the culture wars. This has had the unfortunate consequence that the environmental cause has been allowed to sound cranky, extremist and increasingly out of touch with an important strand of public opinion. Targets that seem – and sadly sometimes are – too ambitious and missed become discredited; and the credibility of ministers trying desperately to stick to them is damaged. Failure breeds failure. Much the same goes, as Sir Tony implies, for the grandiose international summits such as the Cop series. Some, such as Cop26, can generate genuine consensus and momentum; others, such as the most recent Cop29 in oil-rich Azerbaijan, have been ridiculed for their lack of consensus and paltry results. Policies and climate conferences that talk big and deliver little do nothing to restrain greenhouse gas emissions to the levels required to avoid catastrophic, irreversible chaos in future decades. Practical men and women working hard in government and across the country to green the economy must deal with the world as it is, not as they would wish it to be. Sir Tony is right to make them look out into that world as it changes, and not always for the best. Sir Tony points to global trends that undermine today's climate approach: fossil fuel use set to rise further up to 2030; airline travel, hugely damaging to the environment, to double over the next 20 years. By 2030, almost two-thirds of emissions will come from China, India, and southeast Asia, while President Trump's America, outside the Paris climate accords, is set to 'drill, baby, drill'. These are 'inconvenient facts', he says, that mean that 'any strategy based on either 'phasing out' fossil fuels in the short term or limiting consumption is a strategy doomed to fail'. The most powerful argument in the climate-sceptics' armoury is that what the UK does is so trivial when set against these global trends that it is hard to justify the effort – and the costs – involved. This is perfectly logical, and a view favoured at least in some quarters, albeit as an excuse to do nothing. However, it neglects the fact that if the UK were to abandon its commitments to the various Paris and Cop agreements, it would give China and other emerging economies a perfect justification to ignore their own promises as well. China, for all its faults and its current prodigious use of fossil fuels, is a signatory to the agreements and has agreed to net zero, but on a longer timescale – by 2060. That is worth trying to preserve. In some areas, notably electric vehicles and solar technology, China is a world leader. The other idea that has taken hold far too readily in the UK is that electricity bills are artificially high because of green levies. In fact, these are a relatively minor part of domestic or even industrial bills. The high cost of gas and electricity is directly linked to world prices, still elevated by President Putin's war in Ukraine and the consequent constriction of Russian energy exports. Green levies typically make up a small portion of your energy bill, ranging from about 11 per cent of an average dual fuel bill to 16 per cent of an electricity bill. They add around £50 to a typical annual gas bill and about £140 to an electricity bill. These levies fund programmes like the warm home discount scheme and support renewable energy sources. The energy secretary, Ed Miliband, spends countless hours in the House of Commons and in the media patiently explaining his pro-net zero views, but the key messages are not cutting through. The environmental case for decarbonisation is thus being lost. The public remains concerned about climate change, but is equally worried that the government doesn't have a workable, affordable plan – still less one to make the other big polluters on earth do their bit. Helpfully, Sir Tony has some suggestions as to what the government can do – some of which, as Sir Keir Starmer has pointed out, ministers are already pursuing. Carbon capture, for example, is an increasingly practical technology. The government is spending £22bn on this, but much of it has to be recovered from customer bills, which of course makes no allowance for the ability to pay. More nuclear power (and small module reactors) is also one of the TBI's proposals – and here Mr Miliband agrees, though they will take time to build and will incur some considerable cost. They are also of one mind about the role of AI and smarter energy use. The independent Climate Change Committee agrees with the TBI that more needs to be done on adaptation, such as flood defences, to mitigate now unavoidable change – but again, these measures, which command wide support, will cost money. The TBI report says little about where such funding for change and hi-tech investment will be found. For those who understand and accept the dangers of manmade climate change, Sir Tony included, there remains no alternative to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the use of fossil fuels. Many of the arguments about a 'climate hoax' have been won, the need for change recognised. Investing in plentiful, green clean energy is good for economic growth because it has the potential to reduce business costs and boost living standards through sustainable lower bills. It means national energy security. The aims are honourable, indeed essential, but some flexibility is also inevitable along the way – as was recently seen when the government relaxed the electric vehicle mandate. Sir Tony is right to remind his successor about the virtues of pragmatism and gradual change, and stress that he supports government policy. Sir Keir, who has shown a Blair-like willingness to adjust policy across the board, including on the expansion of Britain's airports, will likely agree with Sir Tony's contribution – and the implied criticism of Mr Miliband, even if the timing is a little inconvenient.
The Guardian
29-04-2025
- Politics
- The Guardian
Trump's assault on climate make UN talks an ‘uphill battle', says Cop30 chair
Crucial United Nations climate talks this year will be a 'slightly uphill battle' due to economic turmoil and Donald Trump's removal of the US from the effort to tackle global heating, the chair of the upcoming summit has admitted. Governments from around the world will gather in Belem, Brazil, in November for the Cop30 meeting, where they will be expected to unveil new plans to deal with the climate crisis and slash greenhouse gas emissions. Very few countries have done so yet, however, and the world remains well off track to remain within agreed temperature limits designed to avert the worst consequences of climate breakdown. It's not clear what, if any, presence the US will have at the talks after Trump, who calls climate change 'a giant hoax', removed the world's leading economic power from the Paris climate agreement and set about demolishing environmental regulations at home. A trade war triggered by Trump has also caused concerns over a global economic downturn, further distracting leaders from the task of cutting emissions. This backdrop will make the Cop talks challenging, its president André Corrêa do Lago conceded. 'I think it's going to be a slightly uphill battle,' the Brazilian diplomat said in New York on Tuesday. 'Let's say that the international context could help a little more.' Asked about the fear that other countries will also scale back their plans to address the climate crisis, Corrêa do Lago said that none have said they will do so officially. 'But there is obviously some that say, 'God, how am I going to convince my people that I have to try to lower emissions if the richest country in the world is not doing the same?,'' he said. Corrêa do Lago said that invites have yet to be sent to the US, so he does not know who will attend from the Trump administration. The focus at Cop, Corrêa do Lago said, will be on highlighting how the shift to cleaner energy and protecting forests provide tangible economic benefits to people. 'That's why we wanted to be a Cop of solutions, a Cop of action, and not so much a Cop in which you're going to negotiate documents that you don't know if they're going to be implemented,' he said. 'We negotiated so many things under the Paris accord, including about renewables, about energy efficiency, about transitioning away from fossil fuels, about ending deforestation. I believe that there are enough agreements on those things, now we have to translate that into the economy and into people's lives.' Countries will again discuss climate finance at Cop30 but there remains a 'very strong divide' between developed and developing countries on this issue, Corrêa do Lago said, with poorer nations urging those countries most responsible for the climate crisis to provide more funding to help deal with the impact of flooding, heatwaves, droughts and other mounting disasters. Small Pacific island states also recently called for rich countries to hurry up and submit their new climate plans. China, the world's largest greenhouse gas emitter, is 'demonstrating an absolute conviction that it's the right way to go and to incorporate climate into their economic growth', according to Corrêa do Lago. Xi Jinping, China's president, has said that his country will 'not slow down its climate actions' despite Trump's backtracking on cutting carbon pollution. Corrêa do Lago was speaking at a BloombergNEF event which featured several gloomy comments from speakers about the US' retreat from dealing with the climate crisis and the uncertainty this has caused for clean energy developers. States, cities and businesses within the US are still pushing ahead with the energy transition despite Trump's actions, insisted Gina McCarthy, Joe Biden's top climate adviser. 'Yes we need to recognize that we have a president who wants to deny climate, yes we have tremendous challenges moving forward but we have incredible opportunities,' McCarthy said. 'Clean energy is not gone, it may have gone quiet but businesses are still jumping in to make the investments to protect our future and our kids. That is what gives me hope.'
