Home Automation Technologies for Building a Smart Home

By | | , ,
1 Comment

Before homeowners knew how connected smart homes would start working successfully, the prototypes shown seemed complicated and far-fetched. Thankfully, building a futuristic smart home in the modern day isn’t as overwhelming or intimidating as it seemed in the yesteryears.

It is important that you pick and choose features that match your needs and your budget. This, therefore, means that you do not have to view the project as an all-or-nothing situation. Here is a rundown of some of the most futuristic solutions you could implement in your dream home today.

1. Voice-Controlled Smart Speaker

All smart speakers are powered by smart assistants and they come with a dedicated app, which serves as some kind of a hub. Through the app, you can register and easily access other smart home devices. This allows you to control all smart home devices using voice commands via the controlled smart speaker as opposed to visiting or using individual apps.

Not all voice controlled smart speakers are the same and some only allow the integration of certain services. For instance, Apple’s HomePod works only with Siri. Alexa powers the Echo speakers by Amazon. The Echo devices come in all shapes and sizes, thereby making them some of the most versatile. Google also sells a bunch of Home products, which are powered by the Google Assistant. Other audio gadget manufacturers have started integrating voice assistants in their products as well, like Samsung soundbars for Smart TV that are capable of taking voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant.

2. Smart home security systems

Sure, the aforementioned smart plugs and lights can be used to switch on and off appliances to give potential intruders the illusion that someone is home or you can invest in cameras and locks. Smart doorbells, on the other hand, let you check who is walking to your doorstep, even when you’re far away from home.

The system uses a dedicated security camera and an inbuilt app calling feature, which relies on one-way video and two-way audio. Travis from WiredSmart says smart security cameras are some of the key items that should be installed in Australian homes.

If you are interested in knowing sustainable home security systems, read this article.

3. Smart Plugs Make Everything Smarter

A smart plug is simply an adapter that is capable of turning your basic home electronics into smarter devices. These plugs incorporate WiFi and allow you to control any of your home devices remotely via an app.

However, to get the most from smart plugs, some of the appliances must be dumb. For example, a coffee maker needs to have a power switch that allows you to leave it on in order to allow the smart plug to manage its power.

Futuristic Smart Home

4. Smart Lighting

With smart bulbs, you enjoy the ability to secure your home, provide dimming abilities to any basic light switch, save energy, and saves you the trouble of using an inconveniently located light switch. You can achieve all this by replacing standard bulbs with smart bulb options.

Final Words

Home automation technologies are expected to integrate into more aspects of our daily lives. The voice control feature incorporated in phones is now available in smart home speakers. The smart home technologies provide a major breakthrough advancement that can now be enjoyed in modern, smarter homes. With the advancements in technology, homeowners can look forward to smarter solutions for even easier home automation.

Reviewer’s Blog: How to Become Popular on Social Networks?

By | | ,
Leave a comment

To create a promising blog on the site, it is important to be interested in, and ideally love the topic you are writing about. This is the point of view of Ty Christensen, head of marketing at Clearlink, an expert in content creation and blogger. Read on to learn how to create a blog on a topic that was not close to you and / or of little interest, about the important tips and recommendations of this expert in the field of blogging.

interesting blog

How to make the uninteresting interesting?

There may not be universal solutions, but three examples that I will give below will definitely help you turn a not very interesting or relevant topic into an interesting one.

Start with questions

The first effective way to make a topic more interesting for yourself is to ask questions. They are very effective because:

  1. They suggest a clear goal and direct the main efforts. As soon as there is a question posed, you begin to look for answers. As a result, the search for information turns into an opportunity for learning and self-development. This process is exciting and brings satisfaction.
  2. Closely associated with the target audience – those readers who are looking for answers to this and similar questions. That is why the ability to ask the right questions and then give comprehensive answers is so important for a blogger.

These factors make blogging more efficient and easier, while helping its authors create meaningful, high-quality content that can attract the target audience.

Together with the right goal and due effort, a question can become a powerful tool for expanding horizons. It can inspire new ideas, give motivation in situations where other means have ceased to help.

By asking questions, the author can consider any topic, even one that is far from close to him, thereby generating ideas for creating and maintaining a successful blog. Let’s look at the blog of Wild Earth, a company specializing in outdoor excursions, survival skills training, etc. Initially, most of us, including you – the reader, do not know much about this topic and are not very interested in it.

But by asking the right questions, any blogger can interest themselves first, and then the readers. Even if you don’t know anything about the required topic, you should start with simple and clear questions that begin with the words:

  • who and what;
  • why or how;
  • which;
  • when;
  • where.

What questions can be for the mentioned topic about nature? Here are some options:

  • who started the “green” movement, which is conventionally called “how nature helps us”?
  • what is the positive effect of a person being in nature for a short and long time;
  • where is it better to go to get the proper experience of interacting with nature?
  • where is it worth visiting to experience more sensations?
  • why does a modern person need unity with nature?
  • how does wild nature help a person in terms of psychology?

When you already have a small list of questions, you can work further. Try to find 1 or 2 of them that are really interesting to you.

Having one important question, a blogger can always create several others on its basis. And all these are potential topics for publications. The more new key questions that interest you appear, the easier it is for the author to solve the task.

how to write like a pro

Use all available tools for research

The basis for creating interest is asking questions. They help to explore the issues that fascinate not only the author, but also a wide audience. What happens next? What the question implies – searching for answers. And even if you have not yet asked good questions, you can search for them using the same scheme as the answers themselves.

A successful blog and its maintenance consists of 60% research work. Given this, the bulk of the time spent on blogging should be devoted to research, namely reading. The author’s task is to study the issue independently, so that the reader does not have to do it himself. Subsequently, the information obtained during the research must be presented in a concise, accessible and easily perceived form.

Where to look for the right answers to the questions posed and those that you have not yet found and asked yourself? You can use resources such as Google Alerts and Blog Search, Topsy, Quora, and other similar services with detailed information.

Let’s say your topic is cleaning – cleaning in residential apartments. One of the first questions that seems interesting is: How safe are the usual cleaning products for health? To find the answer, you can go to Quora or another knowledge exchange service, find the “Cleaning” section there (there is one).

The very first visit to the Quora will prompt several ideas at once, as well as new questions that can subsequently become blog posts. Of course, there may not be comprehensive information on individual topics on Quora or similar services. Perhaps changing the search keyword will help – instead of cleaning – detergents or germs. If this does not give results, then it is worth moving to those resources that offer more information on the topic.

So, searching for “cleaning” on Quora gave a lot of food for thought, which in turn gave several ideas for new publications. Among them – in fact, an entire subsection of the blog – “Life hacks for cleaning.” Here you can write, for example, about using orange juice to clean the insides of the dishwasher, and this method works no worse than expensive products.

Then we move on to other resources. Initially, the primary goal for a blogger is the high quality of the posted content, which is extremely important for beginners and only developing resources. Make sure that the number of additional topics (questions) is sufficient to interest a new audience. So, you can write about:

  • using natural, organic components for cleaning instead of “chemicals”;
  • a list of chemicals that are recommended to be avoided;
  • the harm of certain cleaning products for children, allergy sufferers, pregnant women, the elderly, etc.

If these questions are interesting to you, then it would not hurt to answer them for the potential reader.

A lot here depends on the blogger’s natural curiosity, his ability to find the master key to certain questions that interest him. I quickly get new questions:

  1. How many elements of the periodic table are in the cleaning products you use?
  2. What components in cleaning products should alert young parents?
  3. What do you really know about cleaning products: facts and myths?
  4. How to keep your home clean if there are allergy sufferers in the family?

If you would like to get answers to these questions, then it’s only a matter of the main thing – to create high-quality and useful content for readers. Any of these questions is a potential blank for publication in a block on this topic. It is not difficult to study the described problems, since there is plenty of information on the network, and the questions asked are essentially very simple. Looked through several web resources, received information for answers and you can fill the blog.

The Challenges of Public Health and Environmental Stability

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

The environment and the climate are all part of our daily life. We live and interact with the environment and the climate also influences our lives by moderating and impacting our environment. Regardless of which continent one focuses one, the concerns are similar across the globe.

Many, many people across the globe live off the land. A large portion of the global population is totally dependent on agriculture and livestock farming. We call this subsistence farming. Regardless of nomenclature, these lives are hinged to and dependent on farming in an environment that is rapidly changing as the temperatures rise and the climate patterns keep changing. Their struggles are compounding.

environmental degradation

Rains are less frequent, less reliable or overwhelming inundating. The seasons are tending to be hotter, the soils more parched, the production levels of the land are wanning. There may even be more families dependent on securing food from the same land area. Yet the land is producing less in terms of food crops. Much of the land is under greater environmental stress and strain resulting in poor nutrient value of the soils resulting is lower crop yield. While malaria is still rampant and locust swarms are of biblical proportions, rising temperatures, lowering rainfall, all play their part in reducing the people’s capacity to provide for their families, and for the local and global market from these exhausted soils.

It is widespread knowledge that people across the globe are facing greater threats to public health, livelihood, sustainability from the lands due to climate change and environmental degradation. Climate change is not just an environmental threat that impacts the people, but it is also a public health threat that is also increasing in severity each year.

For example, increasing temperature means that local climates are warming up,  and there are seasonal shifts with longer lasting seasons. This means that mosquitoes can now survive in places were previously it was not feasible. This warming climate extends the breeding season and the period of biting activity of the mosquitoes. It is not just nature that is embracing longer warmer and wetter seasons conducive for disease transmission, but disease such as Zika and Dengue fever,  are moving more aggressively into urban areas.

mosquito-control-measures

As climate changes, the issues that threaten the populace include extreme weather events such a rain bombs, and more frequent and more severe mudslides and flooding. This follows with reduced security in food supplies and access to drinkable water. These factors all give rise to human triggers for catastrophes such as political conflict, human trafficking, within and cross border wars, followed by internally displaced people and refugees fleeing across borders, as well as regulated people movement and migration in formal channels.

The usual listing of health-related concerns impacted by climate variability include water-borne disease, malnutrition, heat-related illnesses, air pollution and vector-borne diseases. The issues are the same, but the level of severity is compounded each year. Deadly water-borne diseases such as cholera and hepatitis are very familiar.  But as the water sources warm and the air temperatures also increase, there is a significant increase in the pathogens that cause these deadly diseases, where diarrhoea is one of the most common causes of death in children.

Climate change is impacting the level of food production such that there are greater food shortages leading to greater malnutrition and starvation. Less water availability means it is more difficult to grow and produce healthy food. The food quality is diminishing. On the other hand, excess water due to flooding may lead to greater pest and fungal disease which damages the crops also.

Rising temperatures results in heat waves of greater intensity and duration, as well as increased frequency. This leads to heat related illnesses such as heat stress and heat stroke. This targets both the very young and the elderly sectors of any population.

Next is the air pollution. The levels of pollutants are exacerbated by natural fires, burning of crop stubble and clearing of lands of rainforests, or simply dense vegetation for next season’s farming. The burning processes enhances the increase in air temperature leading to further climate change. Many of the fumes are carcinogenic and detrimental to the health of persons with chronic health conditions.

climate-change-public-health

As the climate patterns change with increasing temperature, higher humidity levels, greater areas exposed to stagnate pools of undrinkable water, diseases are readily transmitted, survive for longer, infect greater numbers of the local populations, and transmit more diseases.

Chain reactions escalate across the biosphere at all levels within the population and natural ecosystems. These collective scenarios threaten the resilience of the local communities. And in term, impact the scant or fragile health systems especially in poorer regions of the globe. People’s basic needs already are not being meet and are now being threatened by increased pressures on the natural environment. The situation is increasing in severity as now there are both the long-standing physical health concerns which are being intensified, and new unravelling environmental health issues and concerns that need to be managed or compensated for.

This growing instability in basic survival capacity raises the need for decisive action across the globe, concern for the most vulnerable communities, and an urgent need for mitigation to reduce environmental emissions and environmental footprints if we wish to ensure the survival of all people on the planet. This requires not just more reports on Climate Change and Sustainability Development Goals, but real action on the ground.

media and sustainable development

It all sounds good to reduce carbon footprint, reduce waste, embrace clean energy solutions, manage people movement efficiently. We have bandied these terms for decades now. It is time for real implementation with community-driven models, decentralised and locally empowered solutions that use local resources to solve local problems on community scale. The local people need to be involved in the local solutions to ensure the future of local communities within the natural local environs. These solutions need to address both the future of the local communities, the health of the environment, and especially the future health of the global communities.

Unveiling the Art of Alignment: Understanding the Role of Chiropractors

By | |
Leave a comment

In the pursuit of holistic health and well-being, individuals often seek various avenues to optimize their physical and mental states. One such avenue, gaining increasing recognition and popularity, is chiropractic care.

At its core, chiropractic care focuses on the alignment of the spine and its impact on overall health. In this article, we delve into the intricate world of chiropractic care, exploring its history, principles, and the pivotal role it plays in promoting wellness.

chiropractic care

What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is a healthcare discipline centered around the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Chiropractors, practitioners of chiropractic care, employ hands-on techniques to adjust the spine and other joints, aiming to restore proper alignment and alleviate associated symptoms.

The spine serves as the central pillar of the human body, providing structural support and facilitating crucial neurological functions. Optimal alignment of the spine is essential for the smooth functioning of the nervous system, which coordinates communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

Misalignments, or subluxations, in the spine can disrupt this communication network, leading to a myriad of health issues. Thus, maintaining proper spinal alignment is paramount for overall health and well-being.

Principles of Chiropractic Care

At the heart of chiropractic care lies the fundamental concept of spinal alignment. The spine, comprised of a series of vertebrae, serves as the primary channel through which the nervous system transmits vital information between the brain and the body.

Optimal spinal alignment ensures unimpeded communication within the nervous system, facilitating the body’s innate ability to heal and function optimally.

When the spine becomes misaligned, either due to trauma, poor posture, or repetitive stress, it can exert pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in interference or dysfunction within the nervous system.

This disruption in communication can manifest as pain, stiffness, numbness, tingling, or other symptoms, depending on the affected nerves and their associated functions. Prolonged misalignments may contribute to chronic health issues and diminish overall quality of life.

Techniques Used by Chiropractors

Chiropractors employ a variety of techniques to address spinal misalignments and promote optimal alignment. These techniques are tailored to the unique needs of each individual and may vary based on factors such as the nature of the misalignment, the patient’s medical history, and their preferences.

1. Spinal Manipulation

Also known as spinal adjustment, this technique involves applying controlled force to specific vertebrae to realign them and improve joint function. It often results in an audible “pop” or “crack,” which is caused by the release of trapped gas bubbles within the joint.

2. Flexion-Distraction

This gentle, hands-on technique is commonly used to treat conditions such as herniated discs and spinal stenosis. It involves a specialized table that allows the chiropractor to apply gentle stretching motions to the spine, decompressing the affected discs and relieving pressure on nerves.

3. Instrument-Assisted Adjustments

Some chiropracors use specialized instruments, such as the activator or the impulse adjusting instrument, to deliver precise and targeted adjustments to the spine and other joints. These instruments deliver quick, low-force impulses to specific areas, making them suitable for patients who prefer a gentler approach.

4. Soft Tissue Therapy

In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may incorporate soft tissue techniques such as massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy to address muscle tension, inflammation, and scar tissue formation. These techniques help improve flexibility, circulation, and overall tissue health.

The primary goal of chiropractic adjustment techniques is to restore proper alignment and function to the spine and other joints of the body.

By correcting misalignments and reducing joint dysfunction, chiropractors aim to alleviate symptoms such as pain, stiffness, muscle tension, and nerve irritation.

Restoring alignment can improve overall spinal biomechanics, enhance nervous system function, and promote the body’s natural healing processes.

Conditions Treated by Chiropractors

Chiropractors are trained to assess and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes.

  • Back Pain: Chiropractic care is perhaps most widely known for its effectiveness in treating back pain, including conditions such as sciatica, herniated discs, and muscle strains.
  • Neck Pain: Chiropractors can also provide relief for neck pain and stiffness caused by poor posture, whiplash injuries, or degenerative conditions like cervical spondylosis.
  • Headaches and Migraines: Many individuals find relief from chronic headaches and migraines through chiropractic adjustments, which can help alleviate tension in the neck and upper back.
  • Joint Pain: Chiropractic care can address joint pain and stiffness associated with conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis, improving mobility and function.

One of the key principles of chiropractic care is its holistic approach to health, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and the importance of addressing underlying imbalances and dysfunctions.

Rather than merely masking symptoms with medication or invasive procedures, chiropractors seek to identify and correct the root causes of health issues, allowing the body to heal naturally and function optimally.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care offers a multitude of potential benefits for overall health and wellness, extending beyond the treatment of specific ailments. Here, we discuss some of the key advantages of chiropractic care, supported by research and testimonials from patients and healthcare professionals.

  • Pain Relief: Chiropractic adjustments can provide effective relief from acute and chronic pain, allowing individuals to experience improved mobility, flexibility, and comfort in their daily lives.
  • Improved Functionality: By restoring proper alignment and function to the spine and nervous system, chiropractic care can enhance overall physical and neurological function, promoting better posture, coordination, and balance.
  • Enhanced Well-being: Many individuals report feeling more energized, relaxed, and mentally clear following chiropractic adjustments, attributing these improvements to the restoration of balance within the body.

Safety Considerations

While chiropractic care is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, it is essential for patients to be aware of potential risks and considerations associated with treatment.

  • Risk of Injury: While rare, there is a potential risk of injury associated with chiropractic adjustments, particularly if performed incorrectly or inappropriately. However, the risk of serious adverse events is extremely low, especially when treatment is provided by a qualified and experienced chiropractor.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with certain pre-existing medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, spinal cord compression, or vascular abnormalities, may require special considerations or modifications to chiropractic treatment to minimize risk and ensure safety.

Chiropractors undergo extensive education and training to obtain licensure and practice legally in their respective jurisdictions. This typically includes a doctoral-level degree from an accredited chiropractic college, followed by clinical experience and ongoing continuing education to maintain competency and proficiency in their field. By choosing a licensed and reputable chiropractor, patients can feel confident in the quality and safety of the care they receive.

Chiropractic care stands as a holistic approach to health and wellness, emphasizing the vital role of spinal alignment in promoting overall well-being. By restoring balance to the body and addressing underlying issues, chiropractors empower individuals to embark on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and vitality.

الذكاء الاصطناعي وإدارة الموارد المائية في الأردن: تعزيز التشاركية من أجل الاستدامة

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

تعد الأردن واحدة من أكثر الدول التي تعاني من شح المياه فى العالم، يعزى ذلك إلى موقعها الجغرافي وندرة الموارد الطبيعية والنمو السكاني, ومما زاد المشكلة سوءا موجات اللجوء والتغير المناخي, بالإضافة إلى معدلات الفاقد العالية حيث تهدر كميات كبيرة من المياه نتيجة التسريبات والتلوث .لذلك فإنه يتحتم مواجهة التحديات الكبيرة والمتزايدة التي تتعلق بتوفيرالمياه للسكان والقطاعات الحيوية المختلفة, بأساليب مختلفة منها ما يتعلق بتحسين إدارة الموارد المائية والتي يجب أن تعتمد على الاستراتيجيات المستدامة والتكنولوجيا الحديثة ومنها الذكاء الصناعي (AI).

use of AI in water management

دور الذكاء الصناعي في إدارة المياه

يعرف الذكاء الاصطناعي بأنه فرع من علوم الحاسوب والذي يهدف إلى تطوير أنظمة قادرة على محاكاة القدرات الذهنية البشرية مثل التعلم  والتفكير والاستنتاج. يمكن للذكاء الاصطناعي تحليل البيانات واتخاذ قرارات بناءً على هذا التحليل والتفاعل مع البشر بطرق ذكية, كما يمكنه أن يلعب دوراٌ مهماٌ في تحسين كفاءة استهلاك الموارد المائية عبر عدة طرق:

  1. المحاكاة والنماذج التنبؤية: وهي من الأدوات الفعالة التي يمكن استخدامها للتنبؤ بالطلب على المياه وتحديد المناطق الأكثرعرضة للجفاف. فباستخدام تقنيات الذكاء الصناعي، يمكن تحليل البيانات المناخية المختلفة لتوقع الاحتياجات المائية المستقبلية وتخطيط استراتيجيات تخزين المياه بصورة أفضل.توفر هذه النماذج قدرة على التعامل مع التعقيدات المتعددة لمشاكل المياه من خلال السيناريوهات المستقبلية واتخاذ قرارات تعتمد على البيانات.
  2. أتمتة شبكات المياه وتقليل الفاقد: فمن خلال تركيب أجهزة استشعار ذكية وبرمجيات تحليل البيانات، يمكن رصد حالات الفاقد في الشبكة بشكل سريع وتحديد الموقع بدقة. هذه الأتمتة تساعد في تقليل الخسائر المائية وتوجيه عمليات الصيانة بشكل أكثر كفاءة.
  3. مراقبة الموارد وتقييم الاستهلاك: حيث يمكن تحليل البيانات المجمعة من المستشعرات والمحطات المائية لقياس نسبة ضخ المياه و دراسة سلوك المستهلكين لتقييم أداء الموارد وتوجيه استخدامها بشكل أمثل. يساعد هذا النهج في تخصيص المياه بشكل عادل وأكثر كفاءة بين القطاعات المختلفة.
  4. الذكاء الاصطناعي التوليدي (Generative AI): وهو مفهوم حديث نسبيًا يمكن أن يلعب دورًا هامًا في تحليل البيانات غير المنظمة والمتعلقة بإدارة المياه. فمن خلال تحليل كميات هائلة من البيانات، يمكن له ابتكار حلول جديدة لمشاكل توزيع المياه وتقليل الفاقد. فمثلاٌ يمكن للذكاء الاصطناعي التوليدي قياس معدل الضخ وفحص سلوك المستهلك، وإنشاء نماذج لتقليل المياه بناء على ذلك .

إيجابيات استخدام الذكاء الصناعي في إدارة المياه

  1. زيادة كفاءة إدارة شبكات المياه وتقليل الفاقد: وذلك من خلال الكشف المبكر عن الفاقد وتحسين تقنيات الري حيث يمكن استخدام الذكاء الاصطناعي في تصميم أنظمة ري ذكية تقوم بتحليل احتياجات المحاصيل من المياه وتوزيعها بشكل يتناسب مع ظروف التربة والطقس، مما يساهم في تقليل الهدر.
  2. التنبؤ المستقبلي وإدارة الأزمات: تطوير النماذج التنبؤية للاستعداد المستقبلي لتوقع الطلب على المياه في مختلف القطاعات (الزراعة، الصناعة، الاستخدام المنزلي), وبالتالي مساعدة صانعي القرار في التخطيط الاستباقي ووضع استراتيجيات للتعامل مع ندرة المياه وتقييم المخاطر وتوقع الأزمات المتعلقة بالمياه، مثل نقص المياه بسبب الجفاف.
  3. تسهيل التشاركية بين القطاعات المختلفة عبر إنشاء منصات رقمية ومنصات تحليل بيانات مشتركة بين القطاعات، مما يتيح الوصول إلى المعلومات الحيوية حول استخدام الموارد المائية وتقليل الهدر.
  4. الاستخدام الأمثل للموارد وذلك بفضل تحليل البيانات بشكل معمق،كما يمكن تحقيق تخصيص أكثر دقة للموارد المائية وتوجيهها نحو المناطق والقطاعات الأكثر احتياجًا.
  5. تحليل البيانات البيئية:استخدام تقنيات التعلم الآلي لتحليل البيانات البيئية، مثل جودة المياه ومؤشرات الصحة البيئية، مما يساعد في اتخاذ قرارات مستندة إلى بيانات دقيقة.

سلبيات استخدام الذكاء الصناعي في إدارة المياه

  1. التكاليف العالية: لا سيما فيما يتعلق بالبنية التحتية التي تحتاج إلى تحديثات لتتماشى مع التكنولوجيا الحديثة.
  2. الاعتماد على البيانات: يعتمد الذكاء الصناعي على كميات هائلة من البيانات الدقيقة والصحيحة ليحقق أهدافه بكفاءة. إذا كانت البيانات المجمعة غير دقيقة أو محدودة، فإن النتائج والنماذج التنبؤية قد تكون مضللة، وستؤدي إلى استنتاجات خاطئة تتسبب في سوء توزيع الموارد أو اتخاذ قرارات غير صائبة.
  3. قضايا الخصوصية والمخاوف أخلاقية: قد تثير مسألة جمع البيانات المتعلقة باستخدام الموارد المائية تساؤلات حول كيفية استخدامها وتخزينها، لا سيما إذا كان يتم مراقبة استهلاك المياه على مستوى الأفراد.
  4. الحاجة إلى موارد بشرية ماهرة: يتطلب تطبيق حلول الذكاء الصناعي وجود كوادر متخصصة ومؤهلة للتعامل مع هذه التقنيات.
artificial-intelligence-environment-protection

Artificial Intelligence can provide invaluable assistance in environment protection and resource conservation

التوصيات

يمثل استخدام الذكاء الصناعي في إدارة المياه في الأردن خطوة هامة نحو تحسين كفاءة استخدام الموارد المائية المحدودة وتقليل الفاقد,وتعزيز القدرات في مواجهة تحديات المياه المستقبلية، وعليه فيمكن الخروج بالتوصيات التالية:

  1. تعزيز التعاون بين القطاعات وتبادل المعرفة والخبرات: وذلك بتعزيز التشاركية بين الحكومات والقطاع الخاص والمجتمع المدني، مما يسهم في تحقيق مشاريع مستدامة تعود بالنفع على المجتمعات وتعزيز قدرتها على مواجهة الأزمات المناخية وتحقيق الأمن المائي والغذائي.
  2. الاهتمام بدور الإنسان كعنصر أساسي في تحقيق التنمية المستدامة, حيث أنه لا يمكن معالجة التحديات المائية بفعالية دون التركيز على مركزية دور الإنسان, وعليه فإنه يتوجب تمكين واشراك المجتمع ليكون جزءًا من عملية صنع القرار المتعلقة بإدارة الموارد، مع التركيز على الحقوق والواجبات مما يسهم في تعزيز الشعور بالمسؤولية ويزيد من فعالية الحلول المقترحة. مع الأخذ بعين الاعتبار أن هذا الانتقال يتطلب نشر الوعي اللازم لفهم القضايا البيئية والموارد الطبيعية, وخلق فرص العمل وتطوير المهارات الفنية والإدارية للمجتمعات مما يتيح لها الاستخدام الفعال للموارد واستقلالية إدارة المشاريع.كل ما ذكر يسهم في بناء مجتمع مستدام يتسم بالعدالة والتمكين. وهذا ما أكده سمو الأمير حسن بن طلال خلال توجيهاته في  مؤتمر “الذكاء الصناعي: حلقة الوصل في منظومة المياه والطاقة والغذاء والبيئة” الذي عقد في تشرين الأول من عام 2024  في العاصمة الأردنية عمّان.
  3. التوعية والتدريب: تنظيم ورش عمل وبرامج تدريبية بلغة مبسطة ومفهومة لكوادر قطاع المياه الفنية والإدارية حول كيفية استخدام تقنيات الذكاء الاصطناعي بفعالية .
  4. تطبيق نماذج عملية مصغرة ليتسنى للمجتمع مراقبة جدوى وفوائد الذكاء الاصطناعي كخطوة لاقناعهم للانتقال لتبني استخدام الذكاء الاصطناعي.
  5. تطوير الأطر القانونية والتنظيمية: وضع أطر قانونية تدعم استخدام الذكاء الاصطناعي في إدارة المياه، مع التركيز على حماية البيانات والخصوصية, كما يجب وضع سياسات وتشريعات واضحة تحدد كيفية جمع البيانات وتخزينها ومشاركتها بين الجهات المختلفة، مع الحرص على حماية حقوق الأفراد والمجتمعات ولضمان استخدام هذه البيانات بصورة أخلاقية.
  6. تقييم الأثر والمراجعة المستمرة لاستخدام الذكاء الاصطناعي في إدارة المياه، وتحديث الاستراتيجيات بناءً على النتائج والبيانات الجديدة, والتعامل مع الذكاء الاصطناعي بحذر لضمان دقة البيانات المستخدمة في التحليلات والنماذج التنبؤية.
  7. إنشاء مركز بيانات مركزي لاستخدام الذكاء الاصطناعي لتحسين إدارة الموارد وكفاءة الري والحوكمة.
  8. تحديث البنية التحتية لمختلف القطاعات لتسهيل الانتقال الى تطبيق استخدام الذكاء الصناعي في ادارة المياه.

How IoT is Making a Deep Impact on Sustainable Development

By | | , ,
6 Comments

The Internet of Things (IoT) is currently trending with its ever expanding eco-system of digital sensors, appliances and wearable smart devices. Like other sectors, the role of IoT in sustainable development and environment protection will be crucial in the coming years.

Environmental degradation is occurring all over the world. Land degradation, deforestation and desertification pose a growing threat to food security and water availability. Widespread loss of biological diversity is undermining the productive capacity of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. This reduces access to essential environmental goods and services, including vital ecological processes such as water purification, nutrient cycling, control of pollution and soil erosion. Environmental degradation exacerbates the frequency and impact of droughts, floods, forest fires and other natural hazards.

Let us explore how IoT is making a positive impact on sustainable development across different sectors.

sustainable=development-goals

1. Water Management

IoT enables understanding of changes in water quality of a particular reservoir. The connection of different sensors and monitoring systems help in providing the water level and flood warnings as well as foresee other disasters such as earthquakes and potential landslides in prone areas, assisting the civilians and authorities to take drastic action on such issues.

2. Agriculture

Smart and adaptive irrigation and agriculture systems in which the soil water content and nutrients are continuously tracked and appropriate actions are taken on the reported deficiency or damage are also gaining huge popularity among the farming communities.

3. Wildlife

IoT also allow real time detection of animals. In case of any disease outbreaks, it will be useful for control, survey and prevention of such scenarios.  For this, the livestock would be fitted with special chips (RFID) and readers would for placed in the designated monitoring spots.

Applications like eBird helps the scientists in keeping tracks of birds as well as their habits and migration patterns. Systems that triggers alert on uncontrolled deforestation and potential wildfires can also help the respective authorities to protect and maintain the forests and its inhabitants.

4. Marine Organisms

Overfishing and over- exploitation of aquatic diversity is endangering high-value species like salmon and cod. ThisFish, an internet tracking network in association with local bodies help to trace back the fish to the fisherman who caught it and the location through GPS readings and toll data. In this way bad fishing behaviors can be detected and stopped.

FishPal provides reports on the type and quantity of fishes caught on a daily and monthly that can be checked by the fisheries department and also informs suspicious fishing activities.

5. Buildings

Those who dismissed smart home technology as unrealistic playthings for lazy youngsters are increasingly finding it hard to resist the charms of IoT-powered smart home devices. These devices will become hugely popular in the coming years as they become highly intuitive and innovative, extending to not just home automation comfort but also home security and the safety of your family. That is the kind of home sustainability that will keep the power consumption in check and make optimal use of renewable energy.

Even smart workplaces with Green Design are contributing highly towards energy conservation. With maximum use of daylight, rainwater capture, smart cooling and ventilation systems, solar power etc ensure maximum efficiency in power use and full utilization to renewable sources.

6. Waste Management

One of the major issues faced in the urban areas is the inefficient waste management. Improper disposal of waste can cause various health hazards and affect the surrounding air and water. The machine-to-machine or machine-to-man (M2M) systems can be established for a much intelligent division and disposal of waste. The trash cans or the dumpsters can have built-in sensors to measure the amount of trash. Once the trash is full, the signal transceiver sends a message to the central command centre via internet or satellite with the GPS location and the IP address.

Use of such Industrial IoT solutions and devices for waste management helps in determining the best time to collect the wastes and figuring out better routes for the collection trucks handling the potential waste build up scenario in cities.

IoT-based waste management systems are getting traction worldwide

Such smart waste management systems can also help in identifying the different types of waste, such as domestic or commercial, and dividing them based on their degrading ability and processes. This would help in proper disposal for all kind of waste causing less environmental issues and keep track of the ever-growing issue of e-waste management.

7. Wastewater

SeWatch, a wastewater and sewerage wireless monitoring system provides a system-wide reporting solution for combined sewer overflow and sanitary sewer overflow discharge or overflow. Water level sensors for sewer system manholes relay information to an application running on a PC or server which alerts on computer screen or via SMS about manhole overflow and spill-over.

A Shining Example

China has come up with a “Sensing China” strategy. It is an environmental protection and overall industrial pollution control system featuring real-time data perception, resource concentration and sharing, system integration as well as effective supervision and decision-making that established to improve the environment and prevent environmental accidents.

The specific tasks include intelligent sensors and automatic monitoring devices, wireless monitoring for pollution treatment, water quality data monitoring, air monitoring system, and regional ecological monitoring.

Conclusion

Connected devices promise to be the major drivers of change within the coming few years. With higher demands for this technology from both public and private sector for better energy distribution, accurate business forecasts, the fruits of Green IT had an answer to many of the community resource management challenges faced by the region, the overall production gains is expected to shoot up.

Of course, new technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, will emerge making IoT more intuitive and user friendly, but largely, manufacturers will have to work harder at securing their connected devices as the risk to data will also increase. Amid all of these trends and predictions, the future ahead is definitely a promising one and certainly worth looking forward to.

Top 5 Kitchen Decorating Trends and Ideas of 2024

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

 

There are plenty of on-trend styles and cutting-edge appliances to choose from, thanks to the emergence of fantastic new kitchen companies and the presentation of fresh design concepts and ingenious twists on existing appliance designs in kitchen showrooms around the nation. Following is a glance at the latest kitchen trends to help you plan your next kitchen overhaul.

kitchen design 2024

1. Glazed Tile Backsplash

Kitchen backsplash tiles are nothing new, but there will be a trend away from matt finishes and towards a more glossy appearance going forward. It is unnecessary to utilise a rich shade to get the desired effect. An easy-to-clean glazed tile will also reflect the light throughout the room, producing excellent effects regardless of the colour used to create the tile.

A plan is enhanced by the texture and artisan character of these unusual Moroccan glazed clay tiles, which have an uneven surface and a range of colour tones and are handcrafted. Choosing glazed white tiles will give your bathroom a more subdued appearance while still making the most of the available natural light. Zelliges will also continue to be a popular option.

2. Infuse Antique Items

Introducing some antique or vintage furniture into a kitchen has the instant impact of creating a warm, lived-in home feel, which is precisely what future kitchen trends are all about dispelling any thoughts of a show house. When it comes to creating a classic style, farmhouse kitchen furniture, such as a scrubbed kitchen table or dresser, is an easy option.

Antique furniture, which are timeless, constructed to endure, and frequently affordable to purchase at vintage fairs, will breathe life into a new room and provide character. Designed joinery, such as a huge larder cabinet and open shelves, are combined with a butler’s sink, Delft tiles, period-style lighting, and antique furniture to produce a timeless look entirely in line with the house’s architectural character.

3. Glass Partitions

As a result of years of tearing down walls to construct enormous open-plan areas, we’ve now learned to realise the advantages of being able to lock the door and escape the constant background music of the whole home, especially in the summer. An open glass barrier may divide areas without sacrificing light or the sensation of being part of a group. It also benefits aiding in the containment of odours in the kitchen environment.

The use of glass walls helps define space and provide a sense of room without being completely open plan. In situations where a complete glass wall is not possible due to the current kitchen arrangement, a smaller glazed panel may add architectural interest to the area while also serving as a background for a piece of furniture, according to the designer.

4. Metal Extractor Hoods

While they are often seen as a necessary evil in the United Kingdom, the American attitude to extractor hoods has traditionally been more celebratory, with custom-made designs in distinctive finishes making powerful and defining statements in kitchens all across the country for generations.

kitchen decoration ideas

This kitchen style seems to be taking off in a significant manner as well, particularly in the form of eye-catching metal surfaces.

5. Single Open Shelf

Because there is so much going on in kitchens, the possibility of visual overload is constantly there. Those seeking a more restrained design will need to concentrate on colours, which should be kept basic, and consider leaving blank wall space on the walls.

When dealing with open kitchen storage, it is critical to have a well-curated display, as is always the case. Some designers use a single open shelf for artwork rather than kitchenalia to boost the room’s overall appearance.

Organic Industrial Wastes in the Middle East

By | | ,
6 Comments

Organic_Wastes_Middle_EastOrganic industrial waste includes a wide range of organic materials obtained from industrial and commercial operation. Industries in Middle East countries produces a large number of organic residues and by-products whose disposal is a major problem for stake-holders. In recent decades, the fast-growing food and beverage processing industry has remarkably increased in importance in major countries of the Middle East.

Since the early 1990s, the increased agricultural output stimulated an increase in fruit and vegetable canning as well as juice, beverage, and oil processing in countries like Egypt, Syria, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. There are many technologically-advanced dairy products, bakery and oil processing plants in the region.

Organic Waste Generators in Middle East

Solid wastes include peelings and scraps from fruit and vegetables, food that does not meet quality control standards, pulp and fibre from sugar and starch extraction, filter sludges and coffee grounds. Liquid wastes are generated by washing meat, fruit and vegetables, blanching fruit and vegetables, pre-cooking meats, poultry and fish, cleaning and processing operations.

Organic Waste Management Strategy

Organic industrial wastes, either liquid or solid, are a good substrate for biogas generation by making use of anaerobic digestion process. Anaerobic digestion of organic industrial waste is fast gaining popularity worldwide. Many industries produce liquid and solid wastes that are suitable for anaerobic digestion, such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, organic chemicals, paper manufacturing and tannery industries.

The use of biogas technology for wastewater treatment is increasing rapidly for industrial wastewater treatment. There are thousands of vendor-supplied systems in operation or under construction throughout the world. Over 30 types of industry have been identified as having wastewater amenable to anaerobic digestion treatment, including processors of beverages, chemicals, food, meat, milk, pulp and paper, and pharmaceutics.

Some of the wastes might be difficult to digest as a sole substrate, but they can be biochemically degraded in combination with manure or sewage sludge. The combined digestion of different wastes is called co-digestion.

Digital Literacy: Empowering Sustainable Development

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

Digital literacy is no longer optional; it’s a vital tool for empowerment and sustainability. Older adults with digital literacy skills experience greater life satisfaction, highlighting its powerful impact. Through digital connections, they access resources that encourage sustainable living.

As technology’s role expands, understanding how digital literacy fosters sustainable practices becomes crucial. It enables people to engage more effectively in sustainable actions and access information essential for environmentally conscious living.

digital literacy and sustainable development

For seniors, digital know-how means staying informed, connected, and active within their communities. This article examines how digital literacy and sustainable development intersect, aiming to empower people and communities toward a greener future.

We’ll explore how digital literacy bridges the divide among seniors, boosting community involvement and fostering economic growth. Additionally, we’ll discuss practical strategies to enhance digital literacy across demographics, ensuring everyone reaps the benefits of the digital age.

Understanding Digital Literacy

Digital literacy involves the ability to utilize digital devices, comprehend digital content, and communicate effectively online. It encompasses a range of skills, including navigating the internet, utilizing software applications, and evaluating online information critically. Today, possessing these skills is integral for personal and professional development.

Digital literacy enables individuals to engage with technology confidently, aiding in tasks such as online banking, accessing government services, and staying in touch with loved ones. It also supports continuous learning, enabling individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge through online platforms.

In the context of sustainable development, digital literacy is pivotal to educating people about environmental issues and solutions. By accessing digital content and participating in online discussions, individuals can make informed lifestyle decisions and contribute to sustainability goals.

The Role of Digital Literacy in Sustainable Development

Digital literacy is a catalyst for promoting sustainable practices. It facilitates access to information on reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and adopting eco-friendly habits. Individuals can learn about green technologies, sustainable products, and conservation efforts through digital platforms.

Consider apps that track carbon footprints or online courses offering sustainability education. These tools empower users to make environmentally conscious choices. For instance, energy-saving apps help monitor and reduce electricity usage, while online communities provide support and resources for sustainable living.

Digital literacy fosters community engagement in sustainability initiatives. Social media platforms, forums, and online campaigns encourage collective action towards environmental goals. By sharing knowledge and inspiring others, digitally literate people can drive positive change within their communities.

Bridging the Digital Divide for Seniors

The digital divide, particularly among seniors, poses significant challenges to sustainable development. Many older adults face barriers to technology access, limiting their ability to participate in digital literacy initiatives and sustainable practices.

Despite these challenges, a growing trend of seniors engaging with digital technology is growing. According to recent statistics, telehealth visits among seniors have increased notably, highlighting their willingness to adopt digital solutions. This shift presents an opportunity to bridge the digital divide and enhance digital literacy among seniors.

To overcome this divide, solutions must focus on providing user-friendly technology and support for seniors. Companies like Consumer Cellular offer senior-friendly tech solutions, facilitating easier access to digital resources and promoting digital inclusion.

Accessible Technology for Seniors

Designing accessible technology is essential to empower seniors with digital literacy skills. User-friendly interfaces, larger fonts, and intuitive navigation can enhance the online experience for older adults, enabling them to engage effectively with digital tools.

Consumer Cellular serves as a model for providing senior-friendly tech solutions. Their products are designed with simplicity, allowing seniors to connect with family, access information, and utilize digital resources easily. By empowering seniors with digital literacy, we can improve their access to information and increase participation in sustainable practices.

Empowering seniors through digital literacy benefits them individually and contributes to sustainable development. When seniors can access digital resources, they participate actively in community and environmental efforts.

Economic Implications of Digital Literacy

Low digital literacy levels can have a substantial economic impact. According to recent data, the U.S. economy loses an estimated $2.2 trillion annually due to low adult literacy rates. This statistic underscores the importance of improving digital literacy to enhance economic opportunities and growth.

Improving digital literacy enhances employment prospects by equipping individuals with crucial skills for the modern workforce. Digital literacy training can empower individuals to pursue careers in technology, finance, healthcare, and other industries, contributing to economic development.

Strategies must focus on improving digital literacy across demographics to maximize economic benefits. Efforts should target underserved populations, ensuring equitable access to digital resources and opportunities.

online education

Strategies for Enhancing Digital Literacy

Enhancing digital literacy requires a multi-faceted approach. Community workshops, online courses, and educational programs are effective initiatives for improving digital skills. These programs can cater to different demographics, from seniors to young adults, ensuring widespread digital literacy.

Organizations and educational institutions play a crucial role in promoting digital literacy. They can equip individuals with the skills to thrive in a digital world by offering courses and workshops. Collaboration with tech companies can also provide access to resources and tools for digital learning.

Individuals can enhance their digital literacy by engaging with online tutorials, seeking mentorship opportunities, and practicing digital skills regularly. Continuous learning is critical to staying updated with technological advancements and leveraging digital literacy for personal and professional growth.

Towards a Digitally Literate and Sustainable Future

Digital literacy is integral to achieving sustainable development goals. By equipping individuals with digital skills, we empower them to make informed decisions, contribute to environmental initiatives, and drive community engagement.

How To Score Deals When Shopping For Eco-Friendly Essentials

By | | ,
1 Comment

Shopping for green and sustainable products is a great initiative you can do to be a more responsible citizen. With so many products on the market today that harm the environment and deplete natural resources, the damage done to the planet is getting worse. However, while many individuals would want to do their part to minimize this damage, they might find it challenging to use green products.

Organic materials and other natural products usually have higher price tags. This could be why many industries use unnatural ingredients, chemical compounds, and other more affordable materials that are unfriendly to the environment just to save on costs. While it might seem unfeasible to shop for eco-friendly essentials at this rate, the following tips and methods would show you how to score deals when buying green products.

Score Deals When Shopping For Eco-Friendly Essentials

1. Purchase From Online Sellers Of Sustainable Products

One way to get amazing deals on green products is to shop online. There are many online shops and e-commerce sites that offer eco-friendly stuff. You can check them out for promotions and discounts. Sometimes, even expensive brands have promotional offerings. Just browse through their sites, and you’d find some great deals.

There are online selling sites that offer coupons, which you can use to buy green products at a lower cost. For instance, there’s an Amazon Promo Code for green products and similar deals, which would allow you to get freebies if you buy a certain number of products.

Online platforms are usually generous at giving discounts through coupons, so keep an eye out for these. You can visit their sites from time to time or just turn on your notifications.

2. Subscribe To Eco-Friendly Subscription Boxes

To become an eco-friendly product enthusiast, you don’t need to go all out. There are easy ways to achieve this. For instance, you can start by investing in eco-friendly subscription boxes. Through these boxes, you’ll know which essentials are being offered by companies and brands today. You’d also gain access to quality green products without doing much research and exerting much effort on your end.

If you decide to go green, you’d need to make thorough research on companies’ supply chain methods. But you won’t have to do this if you subscribe to eco-friendly boxes. Doing so would save you time and energy as these products are already carefully curated to fit your needs and preferences. These products were handpicked by providers, and they add only those that pass the criteria. Hence, each product in the box provides value for their subscribers.

You can cut the time and effort spent hunting down sustainable alternative products at brick-and-mortar shops. Instead, rely on suggested products included in these eco-friendly boxes. You’d be more familiar with a wide range of products and get to try items you’d perhaps stick to using. With a guide to green shopping and a subscription to eco-friendly boxes, you’d be almost ready to be a green supporter all the way.

3. Stay On The Lookout For Flash Sales

Even expensive and high-end brands selling sustainable products also go on sale. This is the perfect time for you to buy fantastic quality green products, especially if you’re on a tight budget. There are many ways for you to score the best deals from these brands. You just need to conduct research and know when they’d have discount events and grab that chance. Also, try to find out if they have partnerships with other distributors that sell the products at lower costs.

Some sites have quick sale events, which would accommodate only the fastest and keenest customers. Hence, to score deals, you need to be quick in checking them out and spotting bargains as they’re the ones that sell out fast.

plastic bag alternative

While sustainable products are often priced higher than regular ones, it’s understandable how shoppers would clamor for these quick sales. But you can increase your chances of finding these sale events by knowing which sites to visit often and signing up for an account. Consider being included in their email list, too, so you’d be prompted whenever they have upcoming flash sales.

4. Consider Buying From Garage Sales

Buying eco-friendly essentials can also be made possible by visiting garage sales and looking for eco-friendly items. You may find handcrafted products, which are usually green and sustainable as they generally require fewer natural resources and less energy to make. The best benefit you’d get from buying at garage sales is acquiring your green essentials at very low costs while saving the environment from junks that can still be repaired, reused, or recycled.

Conclusion

Being eco-friendly is perhaps the best decision you can make today. The environment needs saving, and it’s a way for you to help contribute to conserving nature. By following the advice enclosed in this article, you’d learn some diverse ways to find the best deals to buy eco-friendly products. Subscribe for eco-friendly boxes, do online shopping, visit garage sales, and stay alert for flash sales. All these tactics will make you reap amazing rewards after.

What to Study if You Are Interested in the Environment?

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

Caring for the environment is everyone’s job. Therefore, many young people have projected this desire to preserve ecosystems and protect the planet to a professional field, choosing a university career that allows them to achieve this goal.

In this sense, careers related to the care of the environment covering areas such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, geology and botany – are crucial when it comes to training professionals capable of contributing to the market from a responsible perspective with the environment.

Do you think your path lies in environmental and ecology careers? Then check out the following professional alternatives.

Courses to Study if You Are Interested in the Environment

Degrees that are closely related to the environment

1. Ecotourism Management

With an ethical-environmental focus and oriented towards the construction of sustainable business models, studying Ecotourism Management enables you to enter the tourism industry in the world, and you can work as a manager in public and private organizations, administrator of tourism companies, consultant or advisor, tourism service provider, researcher and executor of tourism projects or as a teacher.

2. Bachelor of Science

If your scientific vocation is clear, but you have not yet decided in which area to specialize, this is one of the careers related to environmental care that will allow you to acquire key knowledge in any area you wish to address.

The Bachelor of Science degree will give you four semesters of training so that you can advance to one of three areas of specialization: Life Sciences, Health Sciences, and Exact Sciences and Engineering.

Thus, studying a Bachelor of Science leaves the door open to the possibility of pursuing careers such as Biochemistry, Nursing, Speech Therapy, Medicine, Marine Biology, etc.

3. Biology

An important career in the field of life sciences that will prepare you professionally to provide solutions to threats of biological impact. As a biologist, you can decide to focus on basic and applied research, provide consulting in public and private organizations, or pursue a specialty to become a professor, among many other options.

4. Marine Biology

Marine biology is one of the careers related to the environment and nature, essential for the conservation of the planet since these professionals are trained to evaluate the impact of human activities on aquatic ecosystems.

By choosing this career you will be able to work in public, private, and non-governmental organizations, environmental institutions, service companies, and the aquaculture industry, among others.

5. Biochemistry

A career that provides solid training in biological sciences (cellular biology, bioinformatics, biomedicine, etc.), with emphasis on scientific research, opening the way to clinical and productive areas, among others. The labor field includes institutions of higher education, technological centers, agro-industrial and biotechnological sectors.

6. Environmental Engineering

If you study environmental engineering, you will acquire all the necessary knowledge to work as a manager and operator of sanitation projects, environmental auditing, environmental impact assessment, and more.

7. Biotechnology Engineering

This career offers complete training in basic and applied sciences, with emphasis on biological principles and how to use them in favor of the development of new technologies. You will be able to work in the design, production, and quality control of biological products or services, the aquaculture, agroforestry, pharmaceutical, biomedical, and food industries.

halobacterium

There are different educational alternatives closely linked to nature and its care, such as Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Archeology, Botany, among others, whose professionals carry environmental responsibility in their veins.

More study options that are related to the nature

Just as these areas are linked to the environment, there are also other study options in business and engineering, whose work allows the conservation of the planet and its natural resources. What are they? We tell you about them below:

Architecture

This career allows you to become a landscape architect to design outdoor infrastructures such as parks, gardens, neighborhoods, etc., promoting the reduction of the negative consequences of urban development.

As an architect, you will also be involved in environmental restoration and projects related to agriculture and forestry. In simple words, you will return spaces to nature and help to conserve them in cities.

Hotel and Tourism Services Management

In this study option, you will be trained to learn about the management of tourist destinations through the planning, enhancement, and use of the country’s natural and cultural resources with the help of tools, technologies, and languages.

Your functions as an administrator, related to the environment, will be the management of protected natural areas and tourist attractions, the development of sustainable and competitive tourist destinations, among others.

ecotourism-jordan

تشهد السياحة البيئية في الأردن تطوراً متعدد الجوانب

Economics

This career is linked to the environment because the main economic activities that are carried out will always need natural resources to be executed correctly. As a professional in this area, you will recognize the value of the environment and the economy in making decisions that promote sustainable development and efficient use of the resources of a region or country.

Industrial Engineering

As a professional in this career, you will take into account the environmental approach in each of your functions, for example, during the development of projects based on the principles of sustainable development.

Likewise, you will be in charge of designing strategies that minimize the environmental impact of companies on the environment. You will also formulate profitable ventures that promote environmental protection while incorporating the social component.

Conclusion

If you are sure you want to study a career in the field of environmental sciences but have not been able to decide which one, you can take the Vocational Test to thoroughly examine your academic interests and define which university program you are most compatible with. This will make it easier to choose the ideal career for you.

Biggest Risks in the Oil and Gas Industry and How to Mitigate Them

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

The oil and gas industry is universally considered one of the riskiest industries and arguably one that faces several challenges. Over the years, there have been notable cases of oils spills and refinery explosions linked to devastating environmental effects. Other concerns include the construction of oil and gas infrastructure, which causes environmental pollution and disruption of wildlands and wildlife habitat. All these are serious concerns that the entire industry and government institutions are trying to solve.

In recent years, oil and gas giants have developed risk assessment and mitigation measures to help them stay competitive in the highly volatile market. These strategies seek to identify risks, map the potential impacts and suggest possible solutions. Due to the nature of the industry, environmental risks are considered the most pressing concern that can affect both the industry’s reputation and finances.

Below, we’ve highlighted the major environmental concerns, other risks affecting the industry, and how risk assessment and mitigation play a significant role.

ruwais-oilfield-abudhabi

Environmental Risks in Oil and Gas Industry

Like any other economic sector that employs millions of people and generates billions in taxes, the oil and gas industry has been in operation for decades without a keen consideration of its negative impacts on the environment. Several efforts to regulate the industry have proven challenging to implement due to the complexity of the industry’s operations.

One of the critical concerns is the pollution impact that oil drilling has on communities. There are nearly 1.2 million oil and gas production facilities in the U.S alone, i.e., from oil wells to processing plants. To make it worse, almost 12.6 million people live within a half-mile radius from these sites, meaning they are exposed to various pollutants daily.

These emissions do not only affect humans but also the climate. Carbon dioxide emitted from oil refineries, and processing plants trap heat in the atmosphere causing global warming. Several oil and gas developments have also ruined wildlands, causing irreversible damage to the pristine wilderness.

Other adverse environmental risks of oil and gas drilling operations are oil spills that damage the marine ecosystem. The BP’s Deepwater Horizon spill, for instance, killed nearly 1 million seabirds, 1000 sea turtles, and 5,000 marine mammals. And while most oil spills don’t make the headlines, they still cause devastating effects.

A recent report, for instance, found that there were 2,179 oil spills in New Mexico, Colorado, and Wyoming combined in 2020 alone. These spills affect marine life through inhalation, direct contact, and ingestion of harmful chemicals.

Other Risks Facing Oil and Gas Sector

Besides the environmental risks, oil and gas sector faces several other threats categorized as short-term or long-term risks. Short-term risks include dynamic regulatory policies and political stances, while long-term risks include the dwindling natural supply and a wholesale market shift to renewable resources. The other risks include:

1. Cyber Risks

As the oil and gas industry adopts digital transformation, they are rapidly scaling and moving their legacy systems to the cloud. This rapid digitization exposes the company to potential cyber threats. Therefore, oil and gas industries should invest in cybersecurity risk assessment to anticipate and mitigate cyber risks.

2. Financial Risks

Like any other commodity in the market, oil and gas prices are subject to price volatility, supply and demand constraints, as well as cost risks. All these factors can affect the industry’s profitability, and companies should hedge their risks by diversifying their investment options.

3. Political Risks

Political stability plays a critical role in the success of oil and gas companies due to their reliance on partnerships and long-term leases. Shifting political landscapes and inconsistent regulatory environments are always a cause for concern for many oil and gas companies, especially those operating overseas.

4. Safety Risk

The oil & gas drilling and refining processes can be dangerous. Over the years, machinery breakdown, human errors, negligence, and natural disasters have led to severe injuries and even deaths. This recurring risk can be mitigated by prioritizing system safety engineering and nurturing a safety-first culture.

Managing Risk in Your Oil and Gas Company

The majority of the top risks facing oil and gas industry can be mitigated by anticipating the threats and taking appropriate action to counteract any potential impact. This often means setting aside the resources for risk management and having the talent to execute the necessary risk mitigation processes and operations.

peak-oil-middle-east

Managing all the risks can be difficult, but not impossible. You just need to allocate time and effort into overseeing all the risky operations. The essence of mitigating risks is to protect your company’s assets and reputation without undermining profits.

That said, risk management isn’t a one-time event, rather a continuous process that keeps evolving with time. Today’s challenges are different from yesterdays’, so regular risk assessments are necessary to stay updated. And regardless of the risks, industry stakeholders should invest in risk mitigation technologies, processes, and operational cultures that prioritize safety and compliance.