Japan sea sludge tells story of human impact on Earth
The sediment in Japan’s Beppu Bay is being considered as a “golden spike” location for the Anthropocene epoch, capturing human-induced changes such as nuclear bomb testing, ecosystem shifts, and industrialization.
The bay’s unique characteristics allow for the preservation of diverse anthropogenic markers, offering a precise record of the past century. Its signatures from nuclear tests make it a compelling site. The designation of the Anthropocene serves as a warning for humanity to address the rapid deterioration of the environment.
Signs of the human era, from nuclear fallout to microplastics
Humans have left their mark on the planet, with signs of their influence found everywhere. The Anthropocene Working Group is set to announce a representative site, but the official designation as a geological time unit is pending.
The weight of humanity is evident in the surge of greenhouse gases, dominance of land mammals and birds, proliferation of technofossils, and presence of microplastics and forever chemicals. As the Anthropocene era unfolds, humanity’s response and the potential for a mass extinction are yet to be seen. Antarctica may be the only place untouched, but without change, even its ice sheets will melt.
Singapore banks told to phase out SMS OTP as sole factor of authenticating high-risk transactions
The Monetary Authority of Singapore has required banks to phase out SMS OTP as a sole factor to authenticate high-risk transactions,” said Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam in a recent parliamentary reply
Asia Centre report highlights proliferation of unchecked hate sites in Singapore
“Political Hate Sites in Singapore: Flourishing Without Repercussions” by Asia Centre reveals the challenges of public accountability and free speech. The report criticizes the Singapore government’s handling of online hate content and calls for stricter monitoring and transparent handling by tech companies.