world

Saturday July 29, 2023

July 29, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday July 29, 2023

July 2023: A Stark Wake-Up Call to Confront Climate Crisis

August 13, 2021

As the scorching temperatures of this past July have shattered records, the world is confronted with the undeniable truth of climate change. However, despite the alarming evidence, there are still those who met the news of July being the hottest month on record with skepticism and indifference, dismissing it as a mere summer heatwave. But the stark reality, backed by overwhelming data, calls for immediate radical action, as United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres aptly put it: Earth has entered an “era of global boiling.”

The impact of this blistering heatwave is felt across the northern hemisphere, affecting regions in Europe and the Americas. Devastating wildfires have ravaged countries such as Greece, Italy, and Algeria along the Mediterranean, leaving destruction and loss in their wake. In the face of such extreme weather events, Guterres has aptly termed it a “cruel summer” for the entire planet. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, and Guterres emphasizes that we are in the midst of a global disaster.

News: ‘Era of global boiling has arrived,’ says UN chief as July set to be hottest month on record  

The data collected from the European Union-funded Copernicus Climate Change Service reveals that the first three weeks of July marked the warmest three-week period ever recorded. Furthermore, it is almost certain that this July will be the hottest July and month on record. The average air temperature across the entire world for the first 23 days of July was a staggering 16.95 degrees Celsius, well surpassing the previous record set in July 2019.

July 21, 2022

Many climate scientists believe that this is not just a cyclical event but a critical turning point in our planet’s history. The evidence from millennia of climate data extracted from various sources, including tree rings, coral reefs, and sediment cores, strongly suggests that we are experiencing the hottest temperatures in more than a hundred thousand years.

The consequences of this extreme heat are dire. As temperatures soared above 120 degrees Fahrenheit in parts of the US, heat-related deaths increased, and people suffered severe burns from contact with scorching ground. Wildfires have claimed dozens of lives in the Mediterranean, while heatwaves in Asia are not only causing casualties but also threatening food security.

It is crucial to recognize that human-caused climate change is the primary driver of this exceptional heat. The concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is directly linked to the global air temperature. Recent studies have shown that climate change played a decisive role in the heatwaves experienced in the US, China, and southern Europe during this summer.

Although the natural climate fluctuation known as El Niño has not had a significant impact on this year’s temperatures, experts warn that it may exert a more considerable influence next year, further escalating the situation. We must be prepared for even hotter conditions in the future if we fail to act decisively now.

News: July on track to be hottest month ever recorded, analysis shows  

June 8, 2023

The records broken in June and July are part of an alarming pattern that shows the relentless progression of global warming. We are already seeing the consequences in ocean heat, which reached “unprecedented levels” in mid-May. These events are not isolated incidents but part of a broader trend that demands urgent attention and action.

As Kim Cobb, a climate scientist at Brown University, rightly pointed out, what we see now may be viewed as relatively mild in the future if we fail to take action against climate change. The urgency to reduce greenhouse gas emissions has never been more evident. Petteri Taalas, secretary-general of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), emphasizes that climate action is not a luxury but an absolute necessity.

The data is clear, and the message is unambiguous: we must confront the harsh reality of climate change. Denying the overwhelming evidence and dismissing it as a mere heatwave is not an option. It is time for collective action and the implementation of measures to address the root causes of this crisis. Each passing day without meaningful action only takes us closer to a future we cannot afford. We owe it to ourselves, future generations, and the planet to make a difference now. (AI) | Also printed in the Toronto Star.

 

Tuesday July 18, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday July 18, 2023

The Struggles of Staying Home: Variants of Concern and Skyrocketing Interest Rates

November 30, 2021

In recent times, people have been facing multiple challenges that keep them confined to their homes. Two significant issues that have played a role in this situation are the emergence of Variants of Concern (VOC) during the COVID-19 pandemic and the sudden increase in interest rates, impacting variable rate mortgages. These circumstances have led individuals to prioritize financial stability over indulging in luxury and recreational activities like visiting restaurants, bars, movies, and vacations. Let’s explore the impact of these interconnected factors on people’s lives.

The COVID-19 pandemic has witnessed the emergence of various variants of the virus. While most variants do not significantly alter the virus’s properties or its impact on communities, some Variants of Concern have raised alarms. These variants exhibit changes that affect crucial factors such as transmissibility, virulence, vaccine effectiveness, and diagnostic testing. Detecting and monitoring these variants is of utmost importance to prevent their rapid spread and devise appropriate strategies to contain the virus.

January 30, 2021

One such method used to identify VOC was through the testing of wastewater in Ottawa. However, due to limited funding, the rapid and cost-effective testing method for variants will soon cease. This decision has raised concerns among scientists and researchers who stress the importance of timely and frequent monitoring of variants. Identifying emerging VOC and estimating their growth within a community becomes increasingly challenging when testing frequency is low. It is vital to maintain robust monitoring systems to stay ahead of the ever-evolving COVID-19 virus.

January 27, 2022

In parallel, the recent surge in interest rates has significantly impacted homeowners with variable rate mortgages. The Bank of Canada’s consecutive interest rate hikes have left borrowers grappling with higher borrowing costs. This increase comes after a brief respite when interest rates remained steady, fueling a surge in home sales and prices reminiscent of the pandemic’s real estate boom. However, the central bank’s efforts to curb inflation have now placed borrowers under mounting pressure.

Variable-rate mortgage borrowers face the immediate burden of rising costs as more of their monthly payments are allocated towards interest rather than reducing the size of their loans. Consequently, the length of their loan repayment periods automatically extends to maintain steady payments. While some borrowers managed to make additional payments during the rate reprieve, the recent interest rate hikes will further stretch their amortization periods. As a result, borrowers will face higher monthly payments when their loans come up for renewal, leading to potential financial strain.

June 22, 2021

The impact of these rising interest rates is also evident in the housing market, particularly in major cities like Toronto. The market, once characterized by frenzied activity, has started to show signs of cooling. Home sales have decreased, reflecting buyers’ growing caution and concerns about future increases in interest rates. The once-enticing real estate landscape has now become a cause for hesitation and financial prudence.

These converging challenges have limited people’s mobility and hindered their ability to engage in leisurely pursuits. The combination of Variants of Concern and rising interest rates has reshaped priorities, pushing individuals to focus on financial stability rather than indulging in luxuries or non-essential activities. Restaurants, bars, movies, and vacations have taken a backseat as people adapt to the new reality, emphasizing the importance of financial planning and prudent decision-making.

As we navigate these challenging times, it is crucial to find a balance between safeguarding public health and maintaining economic stability. Timely monitoring and surveillance of COVID-19 variants, along with supportive measures to help borrowers cope with rising interest rates, will be essential in enabling individuals to regain a sense of normalcy. By addressing these concerns, we can strive to create a safer and more sustainable future, where people can confidently venture out from their homes without compromising their well-being or financial security. (AI)

Saturday July 1, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday July 1, 2023

From Addictive Bliss to Nutritional Abyss: Unraveling the Dangers of Ultra-Processed Foods

June 7, 2017

Processed foods, such as canned beans and tinned fish, have been a part of the American diet for a long time. However, in the 1980s and 90s, food companies started creating what experts refer to as “ultra-processed foods” at a faster pace. These foods contain added sugar, salt, fat, artificial colors, or preservatives. They are often made with substances extracted from foods rather than actual food ingredients. Examples of ultra-processed foods include chips, frozen dinners, soda, and fast food.

According to Northeastern University’s Network Science Institute, ultra-processed foods now make up 73% of the US food supply. Research has linked these foods to health conditions like diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Despite the risks, the average American adult gets over 60% of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods.

Analysis: Flamin’ hot addictions: why is America so hooked on ultra-processed foods?  

January 16, 2019

One reason for this high consumption is that highly processed foods can be addictive. They can affect the brain in ways similar to drug consumption, making it challenging to consume just a small amount. People often find it difficult to resist the temptation to eat more.

In the early 2000s, a Brazilian researcher named Carlos Monteiro began studying the effects of processing on food. He noticed that while sugar consumption seemed to be declining in Brazil, rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes were increasing. Monteiro and his colleagues developed the Nova classification system, which categorizes processed foods based on their level of processing. The highest category, “ultra-processed foods,” is specifically engineered to be addictive and lacks nutritional balance.

May 22, 2019

Initially, research only showed a correlation between ultra-processed foods and obesity. To test the causal relationship, Kevin Hall, a scientist at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), conducted a randomized controlled study in 2018. The study involved 20 healthy adult volunteers who followed either an ultra-processed or a minimally processed diet for two weeks, then switched to the other diet. The results showed that participants consumed 500 more calories per day during the ultra-processed diet weeks, and their bloodwork indicated elevated hunger-related hormones.

This study highlighted the unique quality of ultra-processed foods that leads to overeating. Compared to whole foods, processed foods have a different impact on both the ability and desire to eat.

Analysis: How the ‘food’ we eat causes harm by not really being food at all  

August 10, 2019

Cheetos, for example, are particularly addictive due to various factors. They quickly melt in the mouth, creating the illusion of fewer calories. Additionally, the orange powder on Cheetos triggers a pleasurable reaction in the brain, and their crunchy texture tricks the brain into perceiving freshness.

Further research is being conducted to understand why ultra-processed foods cause overeating. In the meantime, individuals can gradually reduce their dependence on these foods by incorporating more minimally processed options into their diet. It’s important not to completely restrict any food since that can lead to increased cravings. Small incremental steps towards a healthier diet are more sustainable.

Policymakers could also play a role in promoting healthier choices by providing clearer information about the nutritional value of foods. Implementing labeling systems like the Nova system could help consumers make more informed decisions. Leaving it solely up to consumers to figure out the nutritional value of foods is not fair or effective. (AI)

 

Saturday June 24, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday June 24, 2023

Deep Water Rubber Necking Will Always Thrill Some, Despite Safety Concerns

July 13, 2021

The recent tragedy involving the Titan submersible has reignited the debate around deep-sea tourism safety. While calls for stricter regulations are expected, enforcing them across international waters poses challenges. The incident was an outlier, as most deep-sea excursions have been incident-free for over 60 years. Although safety is crucial, deep sea rubber necking will continue to be sought after by thrill-seekers with means.

The absence of regulations in international waters makes implementing safety measures difficult. Industry experts support certification for submersibles, but passing and enforcing regulations globally is complex. Responsible submersible operators prioritize safety, exploring natural phenomena at depths of 500 meters or less. It’s vital to distinguish between such operators and OceanGate’s unconventional decision with the Titan.

News: OceanGate Was Warned of Potential for ‘Catastrophic’ Problems With Titanic Mission  

Despite the tragedy, the allure of deep-sea exploration remains. Future expeditions may include submarine tours to view the Titanic and Titan debris. While safety regulations should be enhanced, the limitations in international waters must be acknowledged. Rather than focusing solely on oversight, improving operations and responsible practices should be prioritized within the submersible industry.

The families affected by the Titanic disaster express their disdain for exploring their loved ones’ resting place. Their emotional pleas remind us of the tragedy. However, responsible and respectful expeditions can offer valuable historical insights.

Deep sea rubber necking will always captivate some individuals, and the fascination with exploring iconic shipwrecks will persist. Balancing regulation and the freedom to explore the depths is a delicate task. As technology advances, we must ensure future expeditions prioritize safety while continuing to ignite our curiosity about the wonders hidden beneath the waves. (AI) | Also printed in the Toronto Star.

Letters to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, June 28, 2023 

Letters to the Editor

Cartoon was an affront

If the editorial cartoon in Saturday’s Spec was meant to be humorous, it failed miserably. Maybe staff forgot that five people perished in a completely avoidable tragedy.

If the cartoon was meant to inform or entertain, again it missed the mark. The cartoon is in fact an affront to the memories of those who died.

The Spec has of late been very conscientious about holding various public institutions to account, but this cartoon makes all of that seem artificial and shows your true colours.

Jack Coruzzi, Brantford

Cartoon nailed it

MacKay’s Saturday cartoon was brilliant and spot on. Adventure tourism gets headlines for billionaires who cost the public millions, while 500 refugees died in an accident on the Mediterranean, and hardly a word was uttered. We live in a shameful society that needs to be called out by satirists like MacKay.

Rhonda Hilton, Burlington

 

 

Tuesday June 6, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday June 6, 2023

D-day then and now

June 6, 2014

As the world commemorates the 80th anniversary of the historic D-Day invasion, a solemn parallel emerges between the valiant efforts of the Allied forces in World War II and the current struggle faced by Ukraine against Russian aggression. While caution must be exercised in drawing direct comparisons, the echoes of sacrifice and the shared objective of liberating occupied territories cannot be ignored. This article explores the similarities and underscores the importance of reflecting upon history.

For days, the villages and towns surrounding Omaha and Juno beaches have held parades, memorial events, flyovers, and parachute demonstrations to build up to the annual celebration of D-Day. The June 6, 1944 invasion marked the beginning of the Allies’ massive ground invasion, leading to Germany’s surrender and the end of World War II in Europe.

Today, Ukraine finds itself preparing for its own counteroffensive against Russia, a fight for which many of those same Allied forces have provided billions of dollars in weapons and training. The goal is similar: to liberate occupied territory and free a country unjustly attacked by an aggressor nation. However, caution is urged against making a direct comparison to the Normandy invasion, where over 150,000 troops made landfall in a 24-hour period.

Opinion: The Eyes of the World Are Upon Ukraine  

June 6, 2019

Nevertheless, the urgency to stop the aggressor resonates strongly. Alain Holley, the mayor of Ste Mere Eglise, emphasized the need to prevent further devastation and protect future generations from the ravages of war. The echoes of conflict reverberate across Europe once again, just hours away by plane. The dark clouds of war have cast a shadow over the continent, and hope is desperately needed.

In this context, the decision to continue arming Ukraine, similar to General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s choice to push forward during World War II, is viewed as a sign of hope. The current commander of the U.S. Army Europe and Africa, General Darryl Williams, draws a parallel between Eisenhower’s resolve and the West’s commitment to support Ukraine. It symbolizes the belief in a brighter future and a determination to confront aggression.

The proximity of the D-Day commemoration to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the present struggles. The 101st Airborne Division’s 2nd Brigade, which once fought to free Carentan after D-Day, was sent back to Europe after Russia’s invasion last year to reinforce Eastern European defences. Their presence in Carentan today serves as a hallowed reminder of the sacrifices made in the past and the ongoing challenges faced in the present.

October 12, 2022

As Ukraine prepares for its counteroffensive, the tension builds. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence released a video hinting at the imminent operation, emphasizing the element of surprise. The urgency is palpable, as the focus shifts from commemoration to the fight at home.

While we are not currently in the midst of a world war, the commemoration of D-Day serves as both a remembrance and a warning. Army Colonel Marty O’Donnell, spokesman for U.S. Army forces in Europe, highlights the importance of reflecting on history as we navigate current events. The lessons learned from the sacrifices of the past can guide us in responding to present-day challenges.

Opinion: This is Ukraine’s D-Day  

November 11, 2022

Though caution must be exercised when comparing the Russian invasion of Ukraine to the D-Day invasion, the echoes of sacrifice and the shared objective of liberating occupied territories cannot be overlooked. The commemoration of D-Day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of reflecting on history as we face present-day conflicts. As Ukraine prepares for its counteroffensive, the support and assistance provided by the international community echo the solidarity and determination of the Allied forces in World War II. Let us learn from the past to shape a future where peace prevails and the sacrifices of those who came before us are honoured. (AI) | Editorial cartoon also printed in the Toronto Star.