climate focused technology

The UK government is investing £50 million in a geoengineering project to explore solar radiation management, aiming to reflect sunlight back into space. This controversial initiative seeks to temporarily cool the planet while addressing the root causes of climate change. Critics raise concerns about potential risks and the need for international surveillance, emphasising the importance of real-world data gathering.

AP Science City is set to launch green initiatives, engaging students and NGOs to protect the environment. A hackathon and innovation challenge will mark World Earth Day, seeking solutions to environmental hazards. Seedball distribution will promote greenery, with awards for the best ideas to combat global warming and increase green cover across Andhra Pradesh.

ISRO and NASA are collaborating on the NISAR mission, set to launch in June 2025. This Earth observation satellite will monitor Earth's changing systems. The GSLV-F16 will launch from Sriharikota. ISRO is also engaging the private sector for commercial spin-offs. NISAR will monitor Earth every 12 days. ISRO has other missions planned, including EOS-09 and Gaganyaan. Chandrayaan-4 is approved.

Canada witnesses a crucial federal election. Voters decide the nation's future amidst rising living costs and housing issues. Mark Carney leads the Liberals against Pierre Pollievre of the Conservatives. New Democrats, Bloc Québécois, and Greens also compete. Parties focus on immigration, healthcare, tax cuts, and housing. The election shapes Canada's policies and relationship with the United States.

The UK government and Italian energy company Eni Thursday announced a deal to create a major carbon capture and storage network to store millions of tonnes of CO2 beneath the Irish Sea. Eni plans to store 4.5 million tonnes of CO2 per year, a quantity that could rise to 10 million after 2030, equivalent to the emissions of four million cars.

From modular façades to IoT-driven governance, a new urban logic is taking shape across borders—with startups, engineers, and city planners at its core.

AI, regulation, and innovation: The future of India's insurance sector

The Metals Company's US subsidiary has applied to NOAA for deep-sea mining permits, bypassing the International Seabed Authority and sparking international controversy. This move, enabled by a recent executive order, aims to secure critical metals but faces opposition from environmentalists and the ISA, which asserts its sole authority to regulate seabed mining.

Indian IT firms are exhibiting cautious hiring approaches amidst economic uncertainties and increased automation. While some firms saw slight headcount increases in the March quarter, overall hiring remains subdued compared to previous years. Companies are prioritizing cost efficiency and maximizing existing resources, leading to a challenging job market for college graduates, with expectations of flat hiring trends throughout 2025.

As of April 2025, Bill Gates' net worth stands at $104.6 billion, ranking him #14 globally, despite significant philanthropic contributions. His wealth is now largely managed through Cascade Investment LLC, with holdings diversified across various sectors. Gates remains a prominent figure in global discussions on climate change, pandemic preparedness, and education equity, exerting influence through philanthropy and technology.

Amaravati is poised to become the world's first city powered entirely by renewable energy, aiming for 2,700 MW of clean energy from solar, wind, and hydropower. This ambitious project, driven by Chief Minister Naidu's vision, supports India's clean energy goals. The city will mandate rooftop solar and implement green building standards, targeting a sustainable, future-ready capital.

Nandan Nilekani believes India is making significant strides in AI, emphasizing the need to scale national initiatives rather than focusing solely on developing large AI models. He cautioned that integrating AI into everyday systems requires substantial effort and workflow reengineering.

Centralised air-conditioning causes discomfort in offices. Employees experience temperature fluctuations. Some feel cold, others feel hot. The one-size-fits-all approach is the problem. Experts suggest smarter climate control systems. They recommend better insulation and efficient windows. Adjusting temperature setpoints is also crucial. Employers should consider employee feedback. Addressing AC issues improves health and productivity.