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India’s <keyword id="23445999" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="carbonated-soft-drinks" source="keywords">carbonated soft drinks</keyword> (CSD) segment has hit a roadblock, unable to expand and reach its full potential, largely due to the high tax burden under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime. A recent report from PTI, originally attributed to the economic think tank ICRIER says that despite the government’s initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, the CSD industry is struggling to scale up due to the steep taxation.<br /><br />According to the report, India imposes one of the highest tax rates on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), with a total tax rate of 40% as of 2023. This figure is significantly higher than that of over 90% of the countries that tax SSBs, based on comparative data compiled by the World Bank. The report also added that  global and domestic consumers are increasingly opting for low-sugar and zero-sugar varieties.<br /><br />Manufacturers around the world are reformulating their products to cater to health-conscious consumers, offering options like low-sugar, fruit-flavored, and zero-calorie drinks. In India, however, companies face an uphill battle. The high tax of 40%, irrespective of sugar content, is preventing firms from innovating and scaling their low-sugar or fruit-based CSD offerings.<br /><br />The report also highlighted that India, a leading global producer of fruits like mangoes and bananas, has untapped potential for incorporating these ingredients into the CSD sector. Yet, the country’s CSD industry lags behind other developing nations, such as Thailand and the Philippines, in terms of product variety and revenue generation. Despite generating $18.25 billion in revenue in 2022 and growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.8% from 2017 to 2022, the sector remains underdeveloped.<br /><br />The report also underscored that India’s CSD market could be a major driver for investment and job creation, particularly in Tier 2 and 3 cities. However, the high tax rates, seen as a lucrative source of revenue for the government, are acting as a deterrent to the sector’s growth, preventing it from becoming a global competitor and unlocking its full economic potential.<br /><br /><strong>(With PTI inputs)</strong><br />

Indian consumers shifting towards low-sugar beverages, high GST rates stalling growth in carbonated soft drinks market

<keyword id="22948419" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Reflect-Orbital" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Reflect Orbital" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Reflect Orbital">Reflect Orbital</keyword>, a California-based startup, has set its sights on a futuristic goal: providing "<keyword id="22948420" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="sunlight-on-demand" source="keywords">sunlight on demand</keyword>" using orbiting mirrors in space. The company's vision is to address one of the biggest challenges in <keyword id="19915217" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="solar-energy" source="keywords">solar energy</keyword> — the inability to generate power after sunset or during cloudy days — by using a fleet of <keyword id="20279522" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="small-satellites" source="keywords">small satellites</keyword> equipped with highly reflective <keyword id="22948421" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mylar-mirrors" source="keywords">Mylar mirrors</keyword>.<br /><h3 style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:14pt;margin-bottom:4pt;">How the technology works</h3>Reflect Orbital plans to deploy 57 small satellites into low-Earth orbit. Each satellite will be outfitted with a 33-square-foot reflective Mylar mirror. These mirrors are designed to reflect sunlight down to Earth, targeting <keyword id="20658734" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="solar-farms" source="keywords">solar farms</keyword> and extending their operational hours by providing an extra 30 minutes of sunlight after sunset or before sunrise. The mirrors will focus sunlight into a concentrated beam, directed by solar farm operators using a simple interface, where users can log in, provide GPS coordinates, and request sunlight.<br /><div type="twitter" handle="bennbuilds" handlename="bennbuilds" favoritecount="0" retweetcount="0" id="1826682383514697993"></div>The idea is to make solar energy more available when it’s most needed — not just during daylight hours, but also in the early morning and evening when electricity demand is typically higher. This could potentially increase the efficiency and profitability of <keyword id="20423867" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="solar-power-generation" source="keywords">solar power generation</keyword>, as energy produced during these periods can be sold at higher rates.<br /><h3 style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:14pt;margin-bottom:4pt;">Potential challenges</h3>Despite the excitement around this technology, there are several challenges that Reflect Orbital will need to overcome. Weather conditions such as thick clouds or storms could obstruct the reflected sunlight, limiting its effectiveness. Seasonal changes that affect the angle and duration of sunlight might also present difficulties. Additionally, the potential environmental impact, including light pollution and interference with astronomical observations, has raised concerns among scientists and environmentalists.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112805908" title="How will Sunita Williams’ body have changed when she returns from space in February 2025?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Reflect Orbital is aware of these challenges and has designed the mirrors to minimise light pollution. The company has also tested its technology using a hot air balloon, which successfully simulated the satellite mirrors' effect by reflecting sunlight down to a solar farm. According to co-founder <keyword id="22948422" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ben-nowack" source="keywords">Ben Nowack</keyword>, the company was able to generate "500 watts of energy per square metre" of solar panel, which is about "half the brightness of the sun."<br /><div type="twitter" handle="bennbuilds" handlename="bennbuilds" favoritecount="0" retweetcount="0" id="1767961251186163857"></div>Reflect Orbital is still in the early stages, with plans to launch its first test satellite in 2025. Interest in the project has been strong, with over 30,000 applications already submitted by individuals and organisations eager to participate in the initial offering of "sunlight on demand."<br /><br />This ambitious project could mark a significant step forward in renewable energy technology if successful, providing a novel solution to the intermittent nature of solar power and helping to accelerate the transition to <keyword id="21313059" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sustainable-energy-sources" source="keywords">sustainable energy sources</keyword>.<br />

Space startup Reflect Orbital plans to sell "sunlight on demand" — how will it work?

Mumbai: The rupee slipped 1 paisa to an all-time low of 84.40 against the US dollar in early trade on Wednesday, as persistent <keyword id="20520117" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="foreign-fund-outflows" source="keywords">foreign fund outflows</keyword> and a muted trend in domestic equities weighed on the local unit. Forex traders said the USDINR pair has shown significant volatility in recent sessions, with the rupee inching closer to its all-time low of 84.40. This downward pressure is largely driven by global factors, particularly the Dollar Index's strengthening. <br /><br /> At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 84.40 against the greenback, registering a fall of 1 paisa over its previous close. <br /><br /> On Tuesday, the rupee fell 1 paisa to a new lifetime low of 84.39 against the US dollar. <br /><br /> "It appears that the rupee has established support around the current levels, with depreciation limited near 84.50," CR Forex Advisors MD Amit Pabari said. <br /><br /> Pabari further added that the RBI stands tall as the depreciation in the rupee seems to be limited as the <keyword id="19899810" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Reserve-Bank-of-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Reserve Bank of India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Reserve Bank of India">Reserve Bank of India</keyword> (RBI) continues to sell the dollars to protect the sharp depreciation. <br /><br /> "For the 5th consecutive week, India's forex reserves declined, possibly due to RBI selling the dollars. Currently, the forex reserves of India stand at USD 682 billion down from the recent all-time high of USD 704 billion," he said. <br /><br /> Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading lower by 0.04 per cent at 105.98. <br /><br /> Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, rose 0.25 per cent to USD 72.07 per barrel in futures trade. <br /><br /> On the domestic equity market front, Sensex was trading 210.66 points, or 0.27 per cent lower, to 78,464.52 points. The Nifty fell 100.45 points, or 0.42 per cent, to 23,783.00 points. <br /><br /> Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net sellers in the capital markets on Tuesday, as they offloaded shares worth Rs 3,024.31 crore, according to exchange data. <br /><br /> On the macroeconomic front, retail inflation breached the Reserve Bank's upper tolerance level, soaring to a 14-month high of 6.21 per cent in October mainly on account of rising food prices. <br /><br /> Inflation based on the consumer price index (CPI) was 5.49 per cent in September and 4.87 per cent in the year-ago month. <br /><br /> India's industrial production expanded by 3.1 per cent in September after recording a contraction in the preceding month, as all three major segments -- mining, manufacturing, and power generation -- showed improvement. <br /><br /> However, the growth in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) during the month was lower than 6.4 per cent registered in September 2023.

Rupee falls 1 paisa to all-time low of 84.40 against US dollar in early trade

The smartphone industry continuously pushes the boundaries of <keyword id="1658654" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fast-charging" source="Orion">fast charging</keyword>, with companies launching new and improved charging technologies at an impressive pace. Recently, <keyword id="19985864" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="realme" source="keywords">Realme</keyword> announced a new system, called the 320W SuperSonic charge that can charge a 4,420 mAh battery from 1% to 100% in just 4 minutes and 30 seconds.<br /><br />This raises an important question: Do these fast chargers damage your phone’s battery, or are they totally safe to use? In this article, we'll explore the science behind battery function and the technologies that manufacturers are developing to protect your device's battery.<br /><br /><h2>How does a smartphone battery work?</h2>Smartphone batteries are typically made of lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cells, which operate through chemical reactions. When charging, lithium ions flow from the negative electrode (anode) to the positive electrode (cathode), generating energy that powers the device.<br /><br />Batteries absorb the most energy when they are almost empty. As they are near their full capacity, they absorb less power. This is why smartphone charging slows down once the battery reaches around 80%. With a fast charger, this process happens much faster, but it’s important to note that fast chargers don’t consistently operate at their peak output. The charger only delivers its maximum capacity for a brief period, while the power input adjusts depending on the battery’s current charge level.<br /><br /><h2>Fast charging explained</h2>Fast charging uses higher power levels to recharge a battery more quickly by increasing the voltage or current supplied. Modern fast-charging systems rely on specialised chargers and batteries that can handle the increased power without causing damage. Technologies such as <keyword id="22604355" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="usb-power-delivery" source="keywords">USB Power Delivery</keyword> (USB-PD and Qualcomm <keyword id="24069276" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="quick-charge" source="keywords">Quick Charge</keyword> help regulate power delivery by communicating between the charger and the device, adjusting based on battery capacity and charge level. Fast charging starts quickly when the battery is low, but slows as the battery nears full capacity to prevent overheating and protect battery longevity.<br /><br /><h2>Why Do Batteries Degrade Over Time?</h2>Repeated charging and discharging take a toll on batteries, but the primary factor behind battery degradation is heat. Excessive heat can cause the battery's internal structure to crystallise, reducing its efficiency. This is why the goal of many manufacturers is to minimise heat generation during the charging process. Over the years, companies have developed technologies to reduce heat in the battery and mitigate its negative effects on the overall battery health.<br /><br />While fast charging is convenient, it can degrade the battery over time if not managed properly. The higher power levels generate more heat, accelerating battery wear and reducing capacity over multiple charging cycles. Modern batteries and chargers are equipped with features, such as temperature sensors and power regulation systems, to minimise damage. Although fast charging can shorten battery lifespan when used frequently, devices often slow the charging speed as they approach full capacity to mitigate these effects. As a result, the battery may not last as long as with slower charging, requiring more frequent recharges over time.<br /><br /><br /><h2>Charging technologies over time</h2>Smartphone brands, especially in India, have been at the forefront of charging technology innovations:<br /><br />OnePlus launched <keyword id="24069277" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="warp-charge" source="keywords">Warp Charge</keyword> in 2019 with 30W charging, and now offers solutions up to 150W.<br />Xiaomi introduced <keyword id="24069278" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hypercharge" source="keywords">HyperCharge</keyword> in 2021 with 120W, and is working on a 300W solution for full charges in under 10 minutes.<br />Oppo debuted SuperVOOC in 2018, starting at 50W, and is aiming for 300W charging.<br />Realme launched Dart Charge in 2020 with 65W and in 2024, showcased 320W SuperSonic charging.<br />Samsung has used <keyword id="24069279" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="adaptive-fast-charging" source="keywords">Adaptive Fast Charging</keyword> since 2014, and now focuses on wireless charging and long-term battery health.<br /><keyword id="19894961" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="apple" source="keywords">Apple</keyword> introduced MagSafe in 2020, prioritising eco-friendly wireless charging advancements.<br /><br /><h2>Consumer perceptions and misconceptions</h2>Many consumers believe fast charging always damages batteries, but modern devices are designed with features to manage heat and voltage, minimising harm. Another common misconception is that using third-party chargers will destroy the battery, but reputable third-party chargers that meet safety standards are safe to use.<br /><br />Some people worry that fast charging is inherently unsafe, but certified chargers follow strict regulations to prevent damage. It’s also often assumed that fast charging continues at high speeds until the battery reaches 100%, but in fact, most systems slow down near full capacity to protect the battery.<br /><br />Lastly, people may believe that all chargers offer fast charging, but fast charging only works with devices and chargers that support the same technology, like USB-PD or Quick Charge.<br /><br /><h2>Best practices for charging</h2>To extend <keyword id="158949" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="battery-life" source="Orion">battery life</keyword>, it’s best to avoid letting your battery drop below 20% or charge above 80% frequently, as extreme charge levels can strain the battery. Always use certified chargers and cables to ensure stable power delivery. Keep your device cool while charging, as excessive heat can cause damage. Avoid heavy usage during charging, as it generates heat. Enable "optimised charging" feature, available on many devices, to regulate charging speed and patterns. If fast charging is necessary, use it sparingly and rely on slower charging for routine use. Finally, unplug the charger once the device is fully charged to prevent unnecessary trickle charging over time.<br /><br /><h2>The future of smartphone batteries</h2>Looking ahead, the future of smartphone batteries includes promising advancements in solid-state and graphene technologies, which could offer faster charging, longer battery life, and higher energy density. Additionally, sodium-ion and lithium-sulphur batteries are being investigated as eco-friendly alternatives. <keyword id="20016522" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gan" source="keywords">GaN</keyword> (gallium nitride) technology is paving the way for ultra-fast chargers, and wireless and over-the-air charging innovations promise to provide smarter, greener, and more efficient solutions.<br /><br />By understanding how batteries work, the impact of fast charging, and best practices for maintaining battery health, consumers can make informed choices that balance convenience and long-term battery performance.<br /><br />

Speed vs. Longevity: The impact of fast charging on your smartphone battery life

<ul class="summary-list"><li>US renewable energy, electric vehicle sales, and overall green investments hit records in 2023.</li><li>Offshore wind faltered due to high interest rates and supply chain delays.</li></ul><p>High interest rates and volatile global supply chains didn't stop the US green-energy transition from reaching new heights in 2023. </p><p>A record amount of renewable energy, led by solar, was added to the grid. Customers bought nearly 1.5 million electric vehicles, a 50% jump over the previous year. Investments in getting the power and transportation sectors, among others, off fossil fuels hit a record $303 billion, <a target="_blank" href="https://l.businessinsider.com/u/click?_t=c8e10479a20f45bba5aad6c5f6fbb009&amp;_m=38d38cf7535847f5821d0d9083351c5b&amp;_e=fzNgJ7vRYzUM3i56253qqFiylNnFi1s_f25ie2pNvT9hb1iGLqm5GIJ0vRdD22jVkFW5l2GSkOk3r81EWtPcbnwZAzrf6Al5En6kXSHAyc1v0G2QK4uEAhVv4A28qLL4garl3tk0hTqWcZyr45SO8-MpHZupRSEiIXn2edrcY8E1mf8EM1Nv__vzaD5UffsAUJdMc_U3GMKzSScbtzv8OaON7LQDAZZyd8_mOVhdrS1sXCOYAzaM0hnCYG0mk_Nqbe5Of-8IgZCFR36_-uuI-iBke24dqc8nOviIguUUh7ECmfeQ3ZGqOlcktcVBqfP7XcDJDt44JspzHFr_3x4z4RYmm7HojnkG4Q5t8qlBKOpS9K2jgtfQz_u7XhUL7kbe"><u>an analysis by BloombergNEF</u></a> found.</p><p>The US was the second-largest investor in the energy transition in 2023, after China, Tom Rowlands-Rees, BloombergNEF's head of North America research, told reporters during a briefing. The race to clean up the global economy is becoming competitive because other countries also hit record levels of investment. Japan was a notable exception.</p><p>"We really can't afford to not be having a record year, just to keep pace with this rapid transformation," Rowlands-Rees said. </p><p>Yet the global investment of $1.8 trillion still isn't enough to cut greenhouse-gas emissions to nearly zero by 2050 — a goal countries agreed to in order to curb the climate crisis. Financing needs to more than double to $4.8 trillion a year, <a target="_blank" href="https://l.businessinsider.com/u/click?_t=c8e10479a20f45bba5aad6c5f6fbb009&amp;_m=38d38cf7535847f5821d0d9083351c5b&amp;_e=fzNgJ7vRYzUM3i56253qqNc0m2-ZGdaiU-mGjCf90qTi4Y25AnHlWqWXQRZmaWx1tNVUt6ZCALA0BUAKcnQ9DnHF3PHOVIeuNRj4QJu7eHZ-46P7JdbD-S0r6XQAFV3XQ04ppGKCrH3VKMWhxKgOJX-wQqbXxyYnO1ar7GOb4k2LT85-8_W5Y_DzqGIkdFmtZGLN6kJv8gnq5v6wtOv8TnrDhWDwzB4APGI9ghXqkUBuVb7Cl5JfrYhOIXY__PRlkNX5RyLUK1dCttY7Avw8F7ofogufpuku1--BMyTMT3E6rqE5ifN4tWasORdQLQVpxC2udbXqJt0Uc9sGk0LIBiSQWAnIsSk9Wqrq7m6FgrknMc4WlZyiF_dIiDwYboOAbdMCmY1Y3pMOkUlhxWI1D4tHGVWUs6cCKdHr4YbEZg78pX_icsssY5XacgsyYQWLPdXHzQ4yA1YeUZ0iOlVRaZwPMjdkt00AjqEkb8viw_wIwMMmRqnfjjcbMPP8p32M"><u>BloombergNEF found</u></a> in a separate report earlier this year.</p><p>Here are three main takeaways from the US: </p><h2><strong>Solar shined, wind faltered<em>,</em> and gas was still king</strong></h2><p>BloombergNEF found that large-scale solar farms and rooftop panels were built at a record clip in 2023. A flood of solar panels imported from Southeast Asia helped meet demand, in part because the Biden administration waived tariffs on those imports.</p><p>It was the opposite story for wind power. Companies either canceled or are trying to renegotiate more than half of all the new offshore-wind capacity that was planned in 2023. Developers cited high interest rates and supply-chain delays. These challenges remain this year, but East Coast states, including New York and Massachusetts, are still awarding new contracts.  </p><p>Solar, wind, and nuclear — which don't produce emissions — are taking a larger share of the energy pie. They generated a record 41% of US power in 2023. But natural gas is still the largest source and set its own record last year. Rowlands-Rees said that falling gas prices made it the cheapest form of energy in 2023.</p><p>"This is why things like the tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act are important, because you see that otherwise, wind and solar are on a real roller coaster of economic competitiveness," he said.</p><h2><strong>Industry has quickly become a top polluter</strong></h2><p>In 2023, for the first time, the US industrial sector that refines oil and makes materials such as cement, iron, steel, chemicals, and paper became a larger polluter than the power sector, according to BloombergNEF.</p><p>The power sector, as recently as 2016, was the top emitter. Its emissions dropped by 40% in less than two decades, largely by switching from coal to natural gas. That means transportation and industry are now the top two polluters. A lot of money is pouring into electrifying cars and transit — industry, not so much. </p><p>"We have our own equation, which is electrification, plus digitization, plus automation equals sustainability," Jeannie Salo, the vice president of government relations at Schneider Electric, told reporters. "Those are the fundamental things that get you there for industrial decarbonization."</p><h2><strong>Solar and EV-battery plants take off</strong></h2><p>The Inflation Reduction Act aimed to reshore renewable energy manufacturing to the US through big tax breaks. Companies have responded with 104 new projects totaling $123 billion in investment. EV-battery and solar plants are dominating the planned growth, with 34 projects announced in each sector, according to BloombergNEF's tally.</p><p>Georgia and North Carolina are the top sites for new plants. North Carolina got $15.4 billion just from Toyota, which is building up its battery manufacturing in the state.</p><p><em>This article is part of Business Insider's weekly newsletter on sustainability. </em><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/subscription/newsletter/insider-sustainability"><em>Sign up here</em></a><em>.</em></p>

Zero-carbon energy generated a record 41% of US power in 2023

It’s one thing to read about <keyword id="19907392" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-change" source="keywords">climate change</keyword> and <keyword id="19951337" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="carbon-emissions" source="keywords">carbon emissions</keyword> in an article, and quite another to <em>see </em>the toxic fumes engulfing your entire country — swirling over it like a certain menacing doom.<br /><br /><keyword id="19935155" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="NASA" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="NASA" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="NASA">NASA</keyword> recently unveiled a groundbreaking visualisation tool that offers an unprecedented look at how carbon dioxide (CO2) moves around our planet. This high-resolution model provides a stunning, animated map of <keyword id="22576003" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-CO2-concentrations" source="keywords">global CO2 concentrations</keyword>, revealing the complex patterns of this crucial <keyword id="20719964" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="greenhouse-gas" source="keywords">greenhouse gas</keyword>.<br />   <div type="Youtube" id="zZ-lMDtiI-k" title="Model Behavior: Visualizing Global Carbon Dioxide" thumbUrl="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zZ-lMDtiI-k/mqdefault.jpg"><url><![CDATA[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZ-lMDtiI-k]]></url></div>By combining billions of data points from satellites and ground observations, NASA scientists created a dynamic picture of how CO2 is emitted, transported, and absorbed across the globe. This interactive map showcases <keyword id="22576002" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="CO2-concentrations" source="keywords">CO2 concentrations</keyword> as they shifted through Earth's atmosphere from January to March 2020, influenced by wind patterns and atmospheric circulation. With its exceptional detail, you can zoom in to pinpoint CO2 emissions rising from power plants, fires, and urban areas, as they spread across continents and oceans.<br /><br />Over India, you can see the greenhouse gas blowing over from neighbouring continents and also originating from the subcontinent. The pulsating oranges indicate CO2 concentrations of 420-460 ppm over India.<br /><h2>The sources of CO2<br /></h2>One of the most striking features of the map is its ability to zoom in on specific regions, allowing viewers to see CO2 emissions rising from individual cities and industrial complexes. This level of detail provides a clear and compelling picture of human activities' impact on the environment.<br /><br />The map highlights distinct emission patterns across different regions. In China, the United States, and South Asia, power plants, industrial facilities, and vehicles were the primary contributors to CO2 emissions. Conversely, in Africa and South America, fires ignited by land management practices, agricultural burning, and deforestation, along with the combustion of oil and coal, were the main sources.<br /><br /><h2>Pulsating gases</h2>The map also highlights the role of natural systems in the carbon cycle. Forests, oceans, and other ecosystems absorb vast amounts of CO2, acting as vital carbon sinks. However, the visualisation also reveals how human activities are overwhelming these natural systems, leading to a buildup of CO2 in the atmosphere.<br /><br />Further, the map exhibits a pulsating appearance. This is because, firstly, fires typically intensify during daylight hours and subside at night, creating a diurnal pattern. Secondly, the absorption and release of CO2 by plants during photosynthesis and respiration contribute to the fluctuations. This pulsing effect is particularly noticeable in regions with abundant vegetation, such as mid- to high-latitude forests and tropical areas.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112021374" title="Scientists found a groundbreaking new reason to plant more trees" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>“This map is a powerful tool for understanding the scale and complexity of the climate crisis,” said [Quote from NASA scientist]. “It shows us where the biggest problems are and where we need to focus our efforts to reduce emissions.”<br /><br />The data behind the map comes from NASA's <keyword id="22576004" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="goddard-earth-observing-system" source="keywords">Goddard Earth Observing System</keyword> (GEOS), a sophisticated model that simulates Earth's atmosphere with incredible detail. By applying this model to CO2, scientists have gained new insights into the gas's behaviour and its impact on the planet.<br /><br />As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, tools like this are essential for informing policy decisions, tracking progress, and inspiring action. NASA’s CO2 map is a remarkable achievement that offers a glimpse into the urgent need to transition to a low-carbon future.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111566431" title="June warmest on record; every month since July 2023 breached 1.5 deg C threshold" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

WATCH: A NASA animation shows gigantic plumes of carbon dioxide emissions swirling over India

In the age of satellite-powered communication, low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites have rapidly grown into a crucial backbone for global <keyword id="21088925" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="internet-access" source="keywords">internet access</keyword> and communication networks. Companies like <keyword id="19905255" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="SpaceX" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="SpaceX" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="SpaceX">SpaceX</keyword> and <keyword id="19904608" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Amazon" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Amazon" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Amazon">Amazon</keyword> are racing to launch <keyword id="23169958" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="satellite-constellations" source="keywords">satellite constellations</keyword> to bring high-speed connectivity to millions of people across the world, particularly in remote regions. However, as the number of satellites in orbit rises, a pressing question emerges: do we really need so many?<br /><br />Low-orbit satellites offer remarkable potential. Positioned just 100 to 1,200 miles above the Earth, these satellites can deliver fast, reliable communications by bouncing data from space to ground, circumventing the limitations of traditional infrastructure like cell towers. SpaceX’s Starlink, for example, currently operates more than 6,000 LEO satellites, with plans to add tens of thousands more.<br /><br />But why so many? The answer lies in a fundamental technological limitation: each satellite's antenna can only handle signals from one user at a time. To serve millions of users worldwide, companies like SpaceX have had to launch entire constellations of satellites, constantly orbiting the planet to provide continuous coverage. Each satellite is responsible for just a small patch of Earth, handing off signals from user to user, like a relay race across the skies.<br /><br />The result is a crowded, expensive race to space as constellations are technically complex, costly to launch and maintain and increasingly contribute to the risk of overcrowded orbits and <keyword id="20715750" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="space-debris" source="keywords">space debris</keyword>.<br /><h2 style="margin-bottom: 0.7em; line-height: 1.3; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 24px; background: 0px 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">Overcrowded orbits<br /></h2>Space, despite its vastness, is becoming a bit cramped — at least in the low-orbit band where these satellites reside. As companies deploy hundreds or even thousands of satellites, the risk of collisions grows. When satellites crash, they can break apart, generating debris that orbits the Earth at high speeds, threatening other satellites or spacecraft.<br /><br />The implications for future space travel, satellite operations, and even human exploration are serious. Each piece of debris could trigger a cascade of collisions, further cluttering space with hazardous fragments. While the possibility of debris crashing down to Earth remains slim, the growing risks in space have sparked discussions about the long-term sustainability of the satellite boom.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112780639" title="Space startup GalaxEye, started by IIT Madras alumni, eyes private satellite launch in 2025" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br /><h2 style="margin-bottom: 0.7em; line-height: 1.3; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 24px; background: 0px 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">A breakthrough: Fewer satellites, more efficiency<br /></h2>But what if we didn't need so many satellites? A recent breakthrough in <keyword id="20354487" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="satellite-technology" source="keywords">satellite technology</keyword> could dramatically reduce the number of satellites required to provide global coverage. Researchers at Princeton University and Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan have developed a technique that allows a single satellite antenna to manage signals for multiple users simultaneously — something previously thought impossible for fast-moving, low-orbit satellites.<br /><br />Their method, described in a paper titled "Physical Beam Sharing for Communications with Multiple Low Earth Orbit Satellites," allows satellite antennas to split their signal beams without requiring additional hardware. This could mean fewer satellites are necessary to provide the same level of coverage, leading to smaller constellations and less crowded orbits.<br /><br />In practical terms, a conventional LEO satellite network may require around 70 to 80 satellites just to cover the United States. With this new technique, that number could drop to as few as 16, greatly reducing costs, complexity, and the likelihood of space debris.<br /><h2 style="margin-bottom: 0.7em; line-height: 1.3; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 24px; background: 0px 0px; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">The future of space<br /></h2>While the technology is still in its early stages, the potential is clear: fewer satellites, fewer risks, and less debris cluttering our atmosphere. This development doesn’t just offer cost savings — it also provides a more sustainable approach to the rapidly expanding satellite industry.<br /><br />Instead of the current approach, where the more satellites launched, the better, we might be entering a new era where the goal is to make satellite technology smarter and more efficient. By designing satellites capable of handling more tasks with less hardware, companies could still provide the coverage and connectivity the world needs, without overwhelming low-Earth orbit with debris.<br /><br />The answer to whether we do need these many satellites, thanks to new research, may soon be no. As satellite technology evolves, we could see the need for massive constellations decrease, ensuring a future where global communication needs are met without overcrowding the sky.<br /><br />As the world increasingly relies on space for essential services, from internet access to GPS navigation, finding a balance between technological innovation and environmental stewardship will be critical. We may not need more satellites — just better ones.<br />  <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111747705" title="20 Starlink satellites rained down on Earth yesterday; turbulent space weather doomed mission recovery" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br />

Do we really need so many satellites?

Climate Action 15: 2024's top global innovators powering green solutions

As the global urgency to combat <keyword id="19907392" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-change" source="keywords">climate change</keyword> intensifies, all eyes are on India's <keyword id="19955368" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Budget-2024" source="keywords">Budget 2024</keyword>, as there’s no better way to walk the talk than allocating funds. Speculation is rife about the potential measures the government may introduce to accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy future — a move that is supremely necessary after the slew of deadly climate catastrophes that we saw last year.<br /><br />India’s Union Budget 2024 will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a couple of days, and is expected to reflect the nation’s commitment to achieving <keyword id="21280854" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="net-zero-carbon-emissions" source="keywords">net-zero carbon emissions</keyword> by 2070. Here are some of the key initiatives from the interim budget that was presented in February earlier this year, along with their anticipated impacts!<br /><h2>Rooftop Solarisation</h2>One of the most talked-about initiatives is the ambitious rooftop solar programme, which aims to provide free electricity up to 300 units per month to one crore households. If implemented, this move will help in not only cutting down energy bills — a godsend for the middle- and lower-income folks — but will also give households a chance to generate and even sell their surplus power.<br /><h2>Electric Vehicle (EV) Ecosystem</h2>Charging up the electric vehicle movement, the interim budget included measures to expand EV manufacturing and infrastructure in the country. The move aimed to accelerate the adoption of <keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">electric vehicles</keyword>, reducing emissions from the transport sector and making your commute cleaner and greener. Additionally, the government seemed keen on encouraging the adoption of electric buses to make urban travel more eco-friendly.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111855546" title="Budget 2024: How will budget affect India’s position in the global space race?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br /><h2><keyword id="20495045" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="offshore-wind-energy" source="keywords">Offshore Wind Energy</keyword></h2>Riding the winds of change, the interim budget introduced a viability gap funding for 1 GW of offshore wind energy. As per the Finance Ministry, this initiative aims to harness the power of India’s vast coastline, pushing the envelope on <keyword id="19895602" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="renewable-energy" source="keywords">renewable energy</keyword> and reducing our fossil fuel dependency.<br /><h2><keyword id="22499996" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="national-green-hydrogen" source="keywords">National Green Hydrogen</keyword> Mission</h2>The interim budget also supercharged the National Green Hydrogen Mission with a massive boost to Rs 600 crore from last year’s Rs 297 crore. The government has continually insisted that Green Hydrogen is set to become the fuel of the future, and this announcement supports its development and adoption, paving the way for cleaner industrial processes.<br /><h2>Coal Gasification and Liquefaction</h2>Switching up the coal game, the interim budget plans to set up coal gasification and liquefaction projects that will be able to process 100 metric tonnes by 2030. These projects aim to make the most out of coal in a cleaner way, especially by reducing our reliance on imported natural gas and slashing emissions.<br /><div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111827903" title="Union Budget 2024 for Railways: Expectations focused on improving passenger safety, experience, infrastructure" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><br /><h2>Bioenergy and Biomass Aggregation</h2>Turning waste into wealth, the interim budget has also promised additional financial assistance for biomass aggregation. This, they explain, will help in creating a sustainable model for managing agricultural waste, promoting bioenergy production and giving farmers a new revenue stream.<br /><h2>Research and Development (R&amp;D)</h2>In a nod to innovation, the interim budget allocated a whopping Rs 1 lakh crore for interest-free financing in “sunrise” R&amp;D for emerging <keyword id="19931192" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-technologies" source="keywords">green technologies</keyword>. If the government follows through on this promise, the funding could catapult a wave of innovation, supporting the transition to a sustainable energy future.<br /><br />By focusing on renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting green technologies, India’s initial budget allocations seem to be taking significant strides towards its net-zero goal. Whether this will ultimately pan out to become a greener and more resilient future for its citizens remains to be seen.<br />

Budget 2024: Key sustainability and energy initiatives that Indian government plans to implement this year

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Tony Fadell said Apple's staggered rollout of its AI features is smart.</li><li>Apple Intelligence features became available Monday with iOS 18.1.</li></ul><p>While Apple's first AI features may not be as flashy as the futuristic demos shown off by OpenAI or Google, former Apple executive Tony Fadell thinks the slow-and-steady strategy was the right move.</p><p>Fadell, the founder of Nest, who is also known as the "father of the iPod," defended Apple's staggered rollout strategy for <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-intelligence-48-hours-trial-liked-these-ai-features-best-2024-10">Apple Intelligence</a> at the 2024 TechCrunch Disrupt conference.</p><p>Apple's AI features launched on iPhones with the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-intelligence-finally-here-with-launch-of-ios-18-software-2024-10">release of iOS 18.1</a> on Monday. Those with an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 can now access the first wave of AI features with the new software update.</p><p>"People were like, 'I downloaded it,' and they were like, 'Apple's AI is meh,'" Fadell said.</p><p>"But it works!" Fadell said. "And that's the thing you want — is you start building things that work, and you build on top of those and make better and better features."</p><p>Apple arrived noticeably later in the AI race compared to other tech giants like <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/google-ai-gemini-bard">Google</a> and <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/microsoft-build-keynote-announcements-copilot-ai-bing-news-2024-5">Microsoft</a>, which had already launched generative AI products throughout the last year. Its long-anticipated Apple Intelligence reveal also featured a more restrained approach, with an <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-intelligence-doesnt-use-personal-data-company-says-2024-6">emphasis on privacy</a> and practical integrations into various apps and notifications.</p><p>Fadell, who worked at Apple from 2001 to 2010 and also worked on the iPhone, said that Apple's staggered system is preferable to a larger AI model that "does everything but does nothing well."</p><p>"I know how these models are built," he said. "I know the algorithms behind them — they are not going to get there."</p><p>Apple's new <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-intelligence-features-tested-on-iphone-16-pro-max-2024-10">AI updates</a> include writing tools, message summaries, and the beginnings of the revamped Siri, and Fadell said that the company's decision to implement a smaller model works.</p><p>"It's at the edge, and it doesn't require nuclear power," he said, referencing the growing investments into nuclear energy by some tech giants.</p><p>Training, developing, and powering AI products requires enormous amounts of energy, leading some Big Tech companies to turn to nuclear power. Microsoft struck a deal with <span>Constellation Energy that will see the Three Mile Island plant reopened by 2028 and provide the company with nuclear power. </span>On October 14, Google <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/google-nuclear-power-ai-data-centers-2024-10">announced its partnership</a> with startup Kairos Powers to develop small modular reactors (SMRs), which are advanced nuclear reactors. Day later, Amazon <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-invests-in-nuclear-for-aws-following-google-and-microsoft-2024-10">announced</a> that its Amazon Web Services division would anchor a $500 million investment into SMRs to provide carbon-free power.</p><p>Apple is betting that its AI features, which the company heavily marketed the iPhone 16 lineup on, will convince people to upgrade their devices. The company is expecting sales growth in the low to mid-single digits in the upcoming holiday quarter.</p><p>During <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/apple-stock-earnings-report-call-live-updates-2024-10#and-thats-wrap">Apple's earnings call</a> on Thursday, CEO Tim Cook talked more about Apple's AI strategy, which plans to release additional Apple Intelligence features in December. The new software will be available not only in US English but also in the UK, Australia, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand. Cook also said that more languages will be added starting in April.</p><p>"And so, we're moving just as fast as possible while ensuring quality," he said. "That's what we're doing."</p>

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