Weekly Trend Tech & ESG

Humanised kidneys grown inside pigs for the first time

In the latest medical breakthrough, humanized kidneys have been grown inside pigs for the first time. Scientists used genetic editing techniques to create pigs with organs similar to humans, opening new prospects for organ transplantation and addressing the shortage of donated organs. This advancement has the potential to revolutionize the field of organ transplantation but also raises significant ethical questions. The ability to grow organs in animals could offer a solution to the perennial organ shortage, saving countless lives in the process. However, it also prompts discussions about the ethical implications and regulatory considerations surrounding such procedures. This groundbreaking achievement underscores the remarkable progress being made in medical science and transplantation technology.?Link

"Complete" models of human embryos created in the laboratory from stem cells

In a recent scientific breakthrough, complete models of human embryos have been created from stem cells in the laboratory. This scientific achievement represents a significant step forward in understanding human embryonic development. Scientists used stem cells to generate models that replicate the entire process of human embryonic development in the early weeks after conception. These models could be crucial for studying prenatal development and gaining a better understanding of congenital medical conditions. However, this innovation may also raise ethical questions regarding embryo manipulation and require further debates and regulations. Overall, this research opens new avenues in developmental biology and reproductive medicine.?Link

CEO Sundar Pichai publishes his reflections ahead of Google's quarter century

In a memo dated September 25, Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced several significant changes within the company. Pichai highlighted the company's ongoing commitment to sustainability and its ambitious goal to operate on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030. The memo also discussed Google's plan to invest $1 billion in renewable energy projects. Additionally, Pichai addressed the importance of ensuring ethical AI development and mentioned the company's continued efforts in this area. The memo emphasized the need for innovation and scaling products effectively while maintaining a strong focus on user privacy and security. Overall, it outlined Google's vision and priorities for the future, including sustainability, AI ethics, and innovation.?Link

How Novo Nordisk became Europe's most valuable company

Novo Nordisk is a Danish pharmaceutical company specializing in the production of insulin and related products for the treatment of diabetes. Its success has been attributed to a combination of factors, including a strong commitment to research and the development of innovative therapies for diabetes and other metabolic diseases. Additionally, increasing health awareness and the rising prevalence of diabetes worldwide have contributed to the demand for Novo Nordisk's products. The company has proven itself as a leader in the pharmaceutical industry and has generated value for shareholders. The article examines the strategies and key factors that have led to this financial success.?Link

Israel PM Pitches Fiber Optic Cable to Link Asia, Middle East With Europe

Israel's Prime Minister is proposing the idea of laying a fiber optic cable to connect Asia and the Middle East to Europe. This ambitious project aims to boost digital connectivity, trade, and cooperation across regions. The proposed cable would span a vast distance, potentially improving internet speeds and connectivity for the countries involved. It could also have economic implications by facilitating increased trade and communication. However, the project would face technical, logistical, and geopolitical challenges. It's part of a broader effort to enhance Israel's regional influence and connectivity, though it's still in the early stages of discussion and planning.?Link

Sony is making a screenless, batteryless full-frame camera for drones

Sony has introduced the ILXLR1, a full-frame Alpha mirrorless box camera designed for professional video and drone applications. This camera offers high-quality video recording capabilities with 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling and is compatible with various Sony E-mount lenses. It features advanced image stabilization, autofocus, and a modular design, making it suitable for a range of professional video and cinematography needs. The ILXLR1 aims to provide flexibility and versatility in shooting, catering to the demands of filmmakers and drone operators. However, the article may contain more detailed specifications and insights worth exploring.?Link

The State as a Startup: How to Turn Uzbekistan into a Growing Fintech Hub

The article discusses the potential of turning Uzbekistan into a thriving fintech hub by adopting a startup-like approach. It highlights the country's strategic location and willingness to embrace innovation as key assets. The author suggests several steps, including creating regulatory sandboxes for fintech experimentation, establishing partnerships with established fintech hubs, and fostering collaboration between government agencies and private sector stakeholders. The article emphasizes the importance of regulatory clarity and a supportive ecosystem to attract fintech investments and talent. By adopting a forward-thinking approach and leveraging its unique position, Uzbekistan could capitalize on the fintech industry's growth, boosting economic development and financial inclusion while positioning itself as a regional fintech leader.?Link

India launches spacecraft to study the sun a week after landing on the moon

India has launched a spacecraft to study the Sun just a week after successfully landing on the Moon. The article highlights the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) achievement in launching the Aditya-L1 mission, which aims to study the Sun's outermost layer, known as the corona. The spacecraft will help scientists better understand solar activity and its impact on space weather. This accomplishment demonstrates India's growing prowess in space exploration and its commitment to advancing scientific research. The successful lunar landing and solar mission reflect ISRO's ambitions to expand its space capabilities and contribute to international space research efforts. Link

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Microsoft just signed a giant carbon removal deal to sponge up CO2 using limestone

Microsoft has entered into one of the largest carbon removal agreements to date. The article reports that the tech giant signed a deal to purchase carbon removal credits from a Swiss-based company called Climeworks. These credits will support Climeworks' direct air capture technology, which captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stores it underground. Microsoft's commitment to removing carbon emissions from the atmosphere is part of its broader climate goals. The company aims to be carbon negative by 2030 and remove all the carbon it has emitted since its founding by 2050. This deal represents a significant step in Microsoft's efforts to combat climate change and invest in innovative carbon removal technologies.?Link

Women are not the same as men. Should the rules and kit of their sports be?

This podcast episode explores the debate surrounding gender equity in sports. It delves into the question of whether the rules and equipment used in women's sports should be different from those in men's sports. The discussion covers various aspects, including the biological and physiological differences between male and female athletes, the historical context of sports regulations, and the impact of these regulations on women's sports performance and opportunities. The podcast raises thought-provoking questions about the need for fair and inclusive sports policies while considering the complexities of ensuring equal opportunities and recognition for female athletes. Link

Sand dredging is 'sterilizing' ocean floor, UN warns

The United Nations has issued a warning regarding the environmental impact of sand dredging on the ocean floor. The article discusses how the practice of extracting sand from the seabed, primarily for construction purposes, is causing significant damage to marine ecosystems. Sand dredging alters the seabed's natural state, disrupting habitats and marine life. The UN calls for more sustainable sand mining practices and regulations to protect these crucial ecosystems. This issue highlights the growing concern over the environmental consequences of resource extraction and the need for responsible management of natural resources to preserve our oceans' health.?Link

Ultra-Processed Foods: 19 Things Everyone needs to Know

The article from The Guardian provides crucial insights into ultra-processed foods. These highly processed products, often containing additives, preservatives, and excessive salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, can lead to health problems like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. The piece emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing food labels and opting for minimally processed, whole foods to improve nutrition and overall well-being. It seeks to raise awareness about the potential hazards linked to a diet rich in ultra-processed foods while advocating for healthier dietary choices. In a world where such foods are ubiquitous, individuals must make informed decisions about what they consume to safeguard their health. Link

MadeRight lands US$2M in seed funding for fungi-based packaging development

MadeRight has secured $2 million in seed funding for the development of fungi-based packaging. The funding will support the company's efforts to create sustainable packaging solutions using mycelium, the root system of fungi. MadeRight's approach aims to reduce the environmental impact of traditional packaging materials like plastic. Their mycelium-based packaging is not only biodegradable but also offers competitive performance and cost-effectiveness. The funding injection highlights the growing interest in sustainable packaging solutions and their potential to address plastic waste and environmental concerns. MadeRight's innovative approach may contribute to a more eco-friendly future for packaging materials.?Link

Climate crisis poses greatest risk to people with respiratory illnesses, experts warn

The Guardian article discusses the severe threat posed by the climate crisis to individuals with respiratory illnesses. Experts warn that rising global temperatures, air pollution, and extreme weather events exacerbate respiratory conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Poor air quality resulting from increased wildfires and heatwaves can trigger respiratory problems, especially in vulnerable populations. Climate change-related events like hurricanes can displace people and disrupt healthcare services, further endangering those with respiratory issues. The article underscores the urgent need for climate action to mitigate the adverse health effects, particularly on individuals already susceptible to respiratory illnesses, emphasizing that addressing the climate crisis is vital for public health.?Link