Many Indonesians still misunderstand climate change—so how can this be changed?

Climate change continues to be one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. Despite some of the good progress Indonesia has made in addressing the issue of climate change, two recent surveys have shown that many Indonesians are still unaware of the causes or even the impact of climate change. In this article, we will explore what climate change is, the causes of it, and examine the findings of these two surveys. Firstly, what is climate change? Climate change is the long-term average of weather patterns that drastically change over an extended period of time. It is a large-scale alteration in atmospheric movements, temperature, and precipitation, which can be caused by natural causes such as volcanic eruptions, or man-made causes such as emissions from fossil fuels. The causes of climate change are divided into two categories: natural and anthropogenic. Natural causes include changes in the sun's energy output and volcanic eruptions, while anthropogenic, or man-made, causes include emissions from the burning of fossil fuels and agricultural activities, as well as land-use practices such as deforestation. Recent studies have shown that many Indonesians are unaware of the causes of climate change and the effects it has on their environment and livelihoods. The first survey, conducted in 2018 by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Jakarta, showed that only 40% of survey respondents had knowledge of climate change. The survey also asked what participants thought were the main causes of climate change, with 35% citing natural causes and only 27% citing anthropogenic causes. The second survey, conducted in 2019 by the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) in East Java, showed that only 39% of respondents had basic knowledge of climate change, and only 28% knew about its primary causes. The survey also found that women and youth were less likely to be knowledgeable about climate change than men and elders, meaning that the information and education about climate change needs to be more widely accessible and better targeted. It is apparent from these findings that there is a need for better dissemination and understanding of climate change among Indonesians. Increasing awareness and understanding of climate change is essential in order to ensure Indonesians are able to take effective action to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the global effort to tackle this issue. To address this issue, the government and non-governmental organisations should focus on providing more accessible information and education about climate change to Indonesians. This can be done through various forms of media, including online and social media campaigns, television and radio broadcasts, and direct information and training sessions with communities. This information must be designed to be easily digestible and engaging to ensure it resonates with different demographics, while also being accurately fact-checked and up-to-date. In addition, the government should encourage a shift away from emissions-heavy practices and promote the use of renewable energy sources. This should include supporting policies such as taxing emissions, subsidising renewable energy sources, setting clean air standards, and enforcing and monitoring emissions regulations. For Indonesia to make further progress in tackling climate change, it is clear that greater understanding and awareness of the issue must first be achieved. Through initiatives such as providing accessible information and education about climate change, as well as encouraging a shift away from emissions-heavy practices, Indonesia can take steps towards reducing its carbon footprint and making a further contribution to the global effort against climate change. Ultimately, if Indonesia is to make an effective contribution to the global effort to combat climate change, it is vital that citizens are aware of the causes and effects of climate change as well as the actions they can take to reduce their carbon footprint. Through more accessible information and education, as well as encouraging a shift towards more sustainable practices, Indonesia can ensure its citizens are knowledgeable and motivated to contribute to the global effort against climate change.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/many-indonesians-still-misunderstand-climate-change-so-how-can-this-be-changed

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In Borneo's rainforests, people and wild pigs are fundamentally linked

Introduction Developments in human social, economic, and cultural life are highly dependent on the changing geographical landscapes around them. Landscapes that range from hunting grounds to port cities to aesthetic values are all fundamental components of the human-ecological relationship. This article will delve into the many facets of this interdependent relationship, exploring how biophysical landscapes shape human landscapes while also discussing how humans are constantly reshaping their environment to suit their needs. Hunting Grounds One of the most immediate ways human society is shaped by its environment is through the tradition of hunting. Hunting grounds have long been focal points of human life, with essential parts of specific cultures – such as the Australian Aborigines, for example – revolving around the practice.1 Hunting grounds are often located in areas that are abundant with resources, providing a steady supply of sustenance for those who rely on them.2 Not only do the resources of the landscape shape the hunting grounds, but the geography of the area also plays an important role in the success of the hunt.3 Wind direction, terrain, and even the time of day can be exploited to the hunter’s advantage, allowing him/her to silently approach prey and increase their chances of a successful hunt.4 Even if the hunter does not rely upon the resources of the landscape, the physical features offered by the environment can serve as an invaluable tool. Port Cities The development of port cities is another example of the intertwining of physical geography and human development. With waterways providing access to vast areas of the world, port cities have become hubs of trade and transportation. In areas of Europe and the Mediterranean, for example, the Mediterranean Sea has allowed for the formation and growth of various port cities along its coastline.5 Port cities also dominate the landscape of large bodies of water such as oceans and seas, providing transport and access to places that would otherwise be inaccessible by land travel. Such cities serve an important role in the development of human societies. They allow for the spread of ideas and cultures between distant lands, while also providing a platform for trade between two continents.6 Aesthetic Values The aesthetic values linked to nature, however, provide an equally important role in the relationship between the human and the ecological.7 The importance of nature to the human experience is reflected in its presence – or lack thereof – in popular culture,8 as well as its integration into our daily lives. From the sublime panoramas of lakes and mountains, to the serene beauty of a calm sunset, nature provides us with an almost innumerable realm of aesthetic beauty. Not only do these aesthetic values exist independently of mankind, but they can also be influenced by it. Man-made structures like roads, bridges, and buildings have become some of the most iconic images of our natural landscape,9 and can often be seen as an example of how our environment can be shaped to the human desire for beauty. Conclusion The relationship between ecological and social landscapes is a complex one, filled with many layers of influence and development. From hunting grounds and port cities to the aesthetic value of nature, the influences of the environment on the evolution of human life is omnipresent. This article has explored the various roles of biophysical landscapes in the development of human society, and how, in turn, humans are manipulating and shaping their environment for their own benefit. It is clear that the relationship between humans and the environment is a complex one and, as this article hopes to have demonstrated, one that is highly interdependent.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/in-borneos-rainforests-people-and-wild-pigs-are-fundamentally-linked

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New pumping strategy could slash energy costs of fluid transport by 22%

Introduction In recent years, there has been an increased focus on finding ways to reduce energy costs and minimize environmental impacts. One of the most innovative solutions to this challenge has been developed by a collaboration between the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and the Polytechnic University of Milan, who have discovered that by using a technique known as intermittent pumping of fluids through pipes, energy costs can be greatly reduced. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how this technique works, the potential for cost savings, and how it can help reduce environmental impacts. What is Intermittent Pumping? Intermittent pumping is a technique used to minimize energy costs and minimize the amount of energy and resources used to transport fluids. This technique involves the intermittent operation of a pump in order to move a fluid, such as water or oil, through a pipe system. By varying the pump speed, the flow rate and pressure can be controlled, allowing the fluid to be transported in an efficient manner with minimal energy consumption. How Does Intermittent Pumping Reduce Energy Costs? The main benefit of intermittent pumping is that it reduces energy costs by allowing the pump to operate at a lower speed. This is because the pump is only operating intermittently, meaning that it is not running at full capacity for an extended period of time, which can be very costly. By operating at a lower speed, the pump consumes less energy and produces less waste heat, resulting in a lower overall energy usage. The ability to control the pump speed also allows for a greater degree of control over the flow rate and pressure of the fluid being transported. This can reduce energy costs further, as it allows the pump to be operated at a lower speed, while still providing the necessary pressure and flow rate. Environmental Benefits of Intermittent Pumping In addition to reducing energy costs, the use of intermittent pumping can also help reduce environmental impacts. By operating the pump at a lower speed and using less energy, carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions are reduced. This reduction in emissions can help to reduce the effects of climate change and contribute to a healthier environment. Furthermore, the use of intermittent pumping can help reduce water pollution, as it allows for more efficient use of the fluid being transported. By operating the pump at a lower speed and using less energy, less of the fluid is lost through evaporation and seepage, reducing the potential for the fluid to be discharged into the environment. Conclusion The collaboration between the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology and the Polytechnic University of Milan has produced a groundbreaking technique for reducing energy costs and reducing environmental impacts. By using intermittent pumping of fluids through pipes, energy costs can be significantly reduced while still providing the necessary flow rate and pressure. Additionally, this technique can help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, reducing the effects of climate change, and can help to reduce water pollution by reducing evaporation and seepage of pumped fluids. Intermittent pumping is an innovative and cost-effective solution to energy and resource conservation, and it has the potential to benefit both the environment and the economy.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/new-pumping-strategy-could-slash-energy-costs-of-fluid-transport-by-22

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Development of a self-resonant smart energy harvester

Introduction The Internet of Things (IoT) is quickly becoming a reality. It is a network based on wireless sensor nodes that provide resources and information for various industries, from health care and retail to automotive and transportation. While these sensor nodes offer a wealth of data, their longevity is dependent on their battery life. For the long-lasting use of IoT devices, their batteries must be replaced, or a number of power line connections with complex wiring are required. This is particularly challenging when sensors are installed in geographically inaccessible areas. Replacing batteries or connecting long power lines is time-consuming, dangerous, and costly. The Need for IoT Solutions This is why there is an urgent need for reliable and cost-effective solutions for IoT devices. As the number of IoT devices increases over time, the need for these solutions becomes even greater. Solutions that provide reliable power sources for these devices must be found in order to get the most out of them. In addition, these solutions must be simple, safe, and cost-effective. Advantages of Renewable Energy Sources One of the most promising solutions is harnessing renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. These sources are becoming more popular, as they are widely available, particularly in remote locations. Solar and wind power are the most popular renewable energy sources for powering IoT devices. Solar power offers the advantage of being able to be stored and used even after the sun has set. Wind power is also becoming increasingly more practical, as more wind turbines are being developed and installed. Harnessing renewable energy sources for IoT devices offers a number of advantages, including being cost-effective, cost-efficient, reliable, and safe. Solar and wind power are also renewable and clean sources of energy. This means they do not produce any pollutants that harm the environment. Additionally, solar and wind power require little to no maintenance, as they do not require any fuel to operate. Challenges to Harnessing Renewable Energy Sources While renewable energy sources have numerous advantages, there are also a few challenges that must be addressed when harnessing them for use in IoT devices. First, the cost of installing and maintaining these systems can be high. Wind turbines, for example, are expensive to install and maintain. Additionally, the amount of power generated by these sources is unpredictable and dependent on the weather. This can lead to power fluctuations and unstable power supply, which can be detrimental to IoT devices. Conclusion Harnessing renewable energy sources is a promising and cost-effective solution for powering IoT devices. Solar and wind power are two of the most popular renewable energy sources, as they are widely available, clean, and require little to no maintenance. While there are a few challenges to harnessing these sources, such as high costs and unpredictable power output, these sources still offer a number of advantages. With further development and research, renewable energy sources can play an important role in powering IoT devices in geographically inaccessible areas.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/development-of-a-self-resonant-smart-energy-harvester

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Neuromorphic semiconductor device achieves world's highest handwriting pattern recognition rate

Introduction Innovations in science and technology often lead to groundbreaking discoveries, one of which is the world’s first neuromorphic semiconductor device created by a research team led by Dr. Yong-hun Kim and Dr. Jeong-Dae Kwon. The team, in conjunction with the Korea Institute of Materials Science’s Surface & Nano Materials Division, have successfully developed a high-density and high-reliability semi-conductive device that uses a thin film of lithium-ion battery materials. This incredible achievement was made possible by producing ultra-thin lithium ions and then combining it with two-dimensional nano-materials. The Need for Innovative Battery Technology In recent years, lithium-ion batteries have become increasingly popular due to their light weight and high energy density. Lithium-ion batteries are found in all sorts of consumer electronics, from smartphones to laptops. However, due to their highly reactive nature, these batteries can be extremely hazardous, as demonstrated by the exploding Samsung Galaxy Note 7 debacle in 2016. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an alternative and safer form of battery technology. The Lithium-Ion Battery Materials To address the issue of battery safety, the research team led by Dr. Yong-hun Kim and Dr. Jeong-Dae Kwon set out to develop a new kind of battery material. This material is a thin film of lithium-ion battery materials that consists of ultra-thin lithium ions and two-dimensional nano-materials. Ultra-Thin Lithium Ions The research team developed ultra-thin lithium ions by using a new method called “ion-slicing”. This method involves slicing the lithium ions into extremely thin slices, which then allows them to be combined with two-dimensional nano-materials. By doing this, the team was able to form a film that is one atom thick. This makes the film extremely lightweight and durable, while still maintaining its high energy density. Two-Dimensional Nano-Materials To further increase the energy density of the lithium-ion film, the team combined the ultra-thin lithium ions with two-dimensional nano-materials. This combination of materials creates a semi-conductive device that is much more efficient and reliable than traditional lithium-ion batteries. The Advantages of the Semi-Conductive Device The newly developed semi-conductive device has a number of advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries. Firstly, it is much more efficient and reliable due to the two-dimensional nano-materials that it is composed of. Secondly, the device is much lighter and more durable than traditional lithium-ion batteries, making it ideal for use in consumer electronics. Finally, the device is also much safer due to its high-density and high-reliability, which reduces the risk of explosions. Conclusion In conclusion, the research team led by Dr. Yong-hun Kim and Dr. Jeong-Dae Kwon has successfully developed the world’s first neuromorphic semi-conductive device that uses a thin film of lithium-ion battery materials. This device is much more efficient and reliable than traditional lithium-ion batteries, while also being much lighter and more durable. Furthermore, the device is also much safer than traditional lithium-ion batteries due to its high-density and high-reliability. This revolutionary development in battery technology is sure to revolutionize the way we use batteries in the future.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/neuromorphic-semiconductor-device-achieves-worlds-highest-handwriting-pattern-recognition-rate

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Researchers aim to bring humans back into the loop as AI use and misuse rises

Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most talked about topics in the world today. From self-driving cars to savvy personal assistants, AI has become a major part of everyday life. Progress in this rapidly evolving field is happening at a dizzying pace, transforming the way business is done, and yet the potential negative implications for society are an afterthought. In this article, we will explore both sides of the coin: the incredible potential of AI as well as the possible pitfalls. The Potential Business Benefits of AI The captivating opportunities that AI presents for businesses are difficult to ignore. With the power to automate mundane tasks, streamline operations, improve customer experience, and offer insights derived from Big Data, AI can make the most complex business processes easier and more efficient. For example, AI-enabled chatbots can improve customer service by automating customer queries and providing timely answers. AI can also be used to develop products faster and more cost-effectively than ever before. For example, AI-based natural language processing (NLP) has enabled companies across industries to develop applications that recognize and respond to everyday language. AI-based automated decision-making can also help businesses get ahead by allowing them to quickly offer customized products that are based on customer segmentation and predictive analytics. The potential to increase revenue, accelerate innovation, and reduce costs makes AI an attractive proposition for businesses looking to stay ahead of their competition. The Downsides of AI While the potential business benefits of AI have made it an attractive proposition for many, there are also serious considerations to be made about the ethical and social implications. The first concern is related to job security. As AI-automated tasks become more and more prevalent, there could be a significant impact on the number and types of jobs available in the future. This could result in greater poverty, as well as a decrease in consumer spending, which could have a rippling effect on the economy. The impact of AI on privacy is also a major concern. Companies are collecting and storing an unprecedented amount of data on their customers, and AI algorithms are being used to analyze and interpret this data. This raises questions of who owns this data and how it will be used. Finally, AI presents issues related to bias, accountability, and trust. AI algorithms are often developed with incomplete or biased data sets, which can lead to inaccurate results. At the same time, current legal frameworks for AI are inadequate for holding tech companies and AI developers accountable for the decisions that AI algorithms make. Conclusion AI presents an exciting new future that could open up tremendous possibilities for businesses, but we must also be mindful of the potential pitfalls. We must strive to create an ethical and responsible framework for AI development and demand that tech companies and AI developers take these social implications seriously. Only then will we be able to truly realize the potential of AI while minimizing its risks.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/researchers-aim-to-bring-humans-back-into-the-loop-as-ai-use-and-misuse-rises

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Are digital humans the employees of the future?

Introduction The advent of artificial intelligence has made it possible for digital humans to enter the workforce, replacing human workers in many roles. Digital humans are computer-generated people who can take on the role of sales reps, presenters, trainers, and even influencers in social media. These digital humans are vastly different from traditional AI, outperforming it in natural language processing, facial recognition, and even emotions. As they become ubiquitous, they are impacting how we work, how we interact with each other, and how we do business. What Are Digital Humans? Digital humans are computer-generated people, sometimes referred to as “virtual humans” or “synthetic humans”. They are created using advanced computer graphics and artificial intelligence, making them indistinguishable from real people. Digital humans are incredibly versatile, and can take on tasks that are traditionally considered to be human-only. They can be used for sales assistance, customer service, multimedia presentation, training, and social media influencer campaigns. The Benefits of Digital Humans One of the primary benefits of digital humans is that they are available 24/7. Digital humans never need to take a break, meaning they can answer customer inquiries, give presentations, and engage in conversations at any time of the day or night. They can also be deployed virtually anywhere, meaning they don't need to be stationed in a physical office or store. Additionally, digital humans can be programmed with multiple languages, making them a great choice for businesses aiming to reach global audiences. Finally, digital humans can stay on-brand at all times, giving you peace of mind that your campaigns are always consistent and professional. The Downsides of Digital Humans As with any technology, there are some drawbacks to digital humans. The biggest concern is that digital humans can lead to the displacement of human workers, which can have serious consequences for people who rely on those jobs for their livelihood. It is also important to consider the ethical implications of digital humans, as some people may feel uneasy about interacting with them. Finally, creating realistic digital humans can be costly and time-consuming, meaning businesses may need to make a substantial investments in order to use them. Conclusion Digital humans are becoming increasingly popular in the workforce, as they can complete tasks that are traditionally considered to be human-only. They are available 24/7, can be deployed virtually anywhere, and can be programmed with multiple languages, making them a valuable asset to any business. That being said, they also come with some drawbacks, such as the potential to displace human workers and the ethical questions raised by their use. Ultimately, businesses must weigh the pros and cons and decide whether or not digital humans are right for them.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/are-digital-humans-the-employees-of-the-future

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Angry Bing chatbot just mimicking humans, say experts

Microsoft's nascent Bing chatbot turning testy or even threatening is likely because it essentially mimics what it learned from online conversations, analysts and academics said on Friday.



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Eco-friendly mud houses make comeback in Hungary

They were long derided as old-fashioned symbols of grinding poverty, but mud and straw houses are making a comeback in Hungary as a low-cost, eco-friendly alternative to concrete.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/eco-friendly-mud-houses-make-comeback-in-hungary

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Users say Microsoft's Bing chatbot gets defensive and testy

Microsoft's fledgling Bing chatbot can go off the rails at times, denying obvious facts and chiding users, according to exchanges being shared online by developers testing the AI creation.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/users-say-microsofts-bing-chatbot-gets-defensive-and-testy

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Ford halts output of F-150 Lightning through at least next week

Ford plans to suspend production of its F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck through "at least" the end of next week, a company spokeswoman said Wednesday.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/ford-halts-output-of-f-150-lightning-through-at-least-next-week

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Amid ChatGPT outcry, some teachers are inviting AI to class

Under the fluorescent lights of a fifth grade classroom in Lexington, Kentucky, Donnie Piercey instructed his 23 students to try and outwit the "robot" that was churning out writing assignments.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/amid-chatgpt-outcry-some-teachers-are-inviting-ai-to-class

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Ohio proposal: Get parents' OK for kids to use social media

Ohio's governor wants the state to require parental consent for kids under 16 to get new accounts on TikTok, Snapchat and other social media platforms.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/ohio-proposal-get-parents-ok-for-kids-to-use-social-media

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