Sir Ian Axford, a renowned New Zealand physicist and space scientist, passed away at the age of 84. He was a pioneer in the field of space plasma physics and made significant contributions to the understanding of the solar wind. Newspapers across New Zealand published obituaries remembering Sir Ian's illustrious career and impactful work.
Ledgard A Greenhouse Gas 31 3 2010 Sl Finalpetergnz
This study examines the full life cycle carbon footprint of New Zealand lamb exported to and consumed in the UK. It finds the total footprint is 1.9 kg of CO2 equivalents for a 100g serving of lamb meat. On-farm emissions, primarily from methane from sheep digestion and nitrous oxide from soil, contribute 80% of the footprint. Meat processing accounts for 3% and transportation 5%. The consumer phase, including shopping and cooking, makes up the remaining 12%. While on-farm emissions are the most significant, all parts of the supply chain can take steps to reduce the footprint through improved efficiency and practices. The study provides a benchmark for the industry and opportunities to lower emissions through continuous improvement and strategic initiatives.
This document discusses the problems caused by dust ingestion in aircraft jet engines. Dust particles can cause erosion and corrosion damage to engine components. The authors propose using dust forecasting and modeling to quantify dust concentrations along flight paths to calculate dust mass ingested and inform maintenance procedures. Both experimental and theoretical approaches are needed to understand dust particle impacts and predict contaminated areas.
The document summarizes the top 10 science stories of 2009 that received media coverage in New Zealand, as identified by the Science Media Centre. The top story was the Swine Flu pandemic, which generated significant media attention globally and in New Zealand. Climate change was the second biggest story and attracted much debate in opinion pages, though daily coverage of climate science was often syndicated from overseas. The third largest story was the debate around requiring folic acid fortification of bread in New Zealand.
A major 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck Chile on February 27, 2010. The document provides preliminary information and slides about the earthquake compiled on February 28, along with relevant links for tsunami models, animations, and updates from organizations monitoring the earthquake such as the USGS, NOAA, New Zealand Civil Defence, and Geonet.
Sea level rise, emerging issues paper, royal society of new zealand, sept 2010petergnz
Sea levels are rising due to global warming. In the past when the Earth was warmer, sea levels were several meters higher. Recent scientific studies project greater sea level rise than previous IPCC reports, ranging from 0.5 to over 1 meter by 2100. Uncertainty remains about how quickly polar ice sheets will melt and increase sea level rise. Thermal expansion of oceans as they warm also contributes to rising sea levels. Local risks may be increased in some areas depending on tectonic movements of the land.
The CPI fell 0.2% in the December 2009 quarter, driven mainly by lower food prices. Food prices decreased 2.4% due to large drops in vegetable prices like lettuce and tomatoes. Transport prices rose 1.5% due to increases in airfares and used cars. For the year, the CPI increased 2.0% with the largest contributions coming from higher transport and housing costs.
Sir Ian Axford, a renowned New Zealand physicist and space scientist, passed away at the age of 84. He was a pioneer in the field of space plasma physics and made significant contributions to the understanding of the solar wind. Newspapers across New Zealand published obituaries remembering Sir Ian's illustrious career and impactful work.
Ledgard A Greenhouse Gas 31 3 2010 Sl Finalpetergnz
This study examines the full life cycle carbon footprint of New Zealand lamb exported to and consumed in the UK. It finds the total footprint is 1.9 kg of CO2 equivalents for a 100g serving of lamb meat. On-farm emissions, primarily from methane from sheep digestion and nitrous oxide from soil, contribute 80% of the footprint. Meat processing accounts for 3% and transportation 5%. The consumer phase, including shopping and cooking, makes up the remaining 12%. While on-farm emissions are the most significant, all parts of the supply chain can take steps to reduce the footprint through improved efficiency and practices. The study provides a benchmark for the industry and opportunities to lower emissions through continuous improvement and strategic initiatives.
This document discusses the problems caused by dust ingestion in aircraft jet engines. Dust particles can cause erosion and corrosion damage to engine components. The authors propose using dust forecasting and modeling to quantify dust concentrations along flight paths to calculate dust mass ingested and inform maintenance procedures. Both experimental and theoretical approaches are needed to understand dust particle impacts and predict contaminated areas.
The document summarizes the top 10 science stories of 2009 that received media coverage in New Zealand, as identified by the Science Media Centre. The top story was the Swine Flu pandemic, which generated significant media attention globally and in New Zealand. Climate change was the second biggest story and attracted much debate in opinion pages, though daily coverage of climate science was often syndicated from overseas. The third largest story was the debate around requiring folic acid fortification of bread in New Zealand.
A major 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck Chile on February 27, 2010. The document provides preliminary information and slides about the earthquake compiled on February 28, along with relevant links for tsunami models, animations, and updates from organizations monitoring the earthquake such as the USGS, NOAA, New Zealand Civil Defence, and Geonet.
Sea level rise, emerging issues paper, royal society of new zealand, sept 2010petergnz
Sea levels are rising due to global warming. In the past when the Earth was warmer, sea levels were several meters higher. Recent scientific studies project greater sea level rise than previous IPCC reports, ranging from 0.5 to over 1 meter by 2100. Uncertainty remains about how quickly polar ice sheets will melt and increase sea level rise. Thermal expansion of oceans as they warm also contributes to rising sea levels. Local risks may be increased in some areas depending on tectonic movements of the land.
The CPI fell 0.2% in the December 2009 quarter, driven mainly by lower food prices. Food prices decreased 2.4% due to large drops in vegetable prices like lettuce and tomatoes. Transport prices rose 1.5% due to increases in airfares and used cars. For the year, the CPI increased 2.0% with the largest contributions coming from higher transport and housing costs.
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
The document discusses the benefits of meditation for reducing stress and anxiety. Regular meditation practice can help calm the mind and body by lowering heart rate and blood pressure. Studies have shown that meditating for just 10-20 minutes per day can have significant positive impacts on both mental and physical health over time.
This document analyzes trends in science media coverage over a five year period from 2010 to 2015 based on keyword searches. It shows fluctuations in news articles mentioning various science topics like earthquakes, climate change, influenza, fracking, droughts and more. Major events like natural disasters, political summits, disease outbreaks, and scientific discoveries correlated with spikes in coverage on related issues. The graphs demonstrate how the level of media coverage on different science topics changed significantly over the five year time frame.
This document analyzes trends in science media coverage over a five year period from 2010 to 2015 based on keyword searches. It shows fluctuations in news articles mentioning various science topics like earthquakes, climate change, influenza, fracking, droughts and more. Major events like natural disasters, political summits, disease outbreaks, and scientific discoveries correlated with spikes in coverage on related issues. The graphs demonstrate how the level of media coverage on different science topics changed significantly over the half decade studied.
This judgment concerns an appeal by Donald McDonald against a decision by the Broadcasting Standards Authority that his complaint about an inaccuracy in a TVNZ news broadcast was frivolous and trivial. The Authority declined to determine the complaint. McDonald also appealed a costs order against him for $50. The Court found that the Authority provided sufficient reasons for its decision and did not err in finding the inaccurate distance of a supernova was peripheral to the main story. The Court dismissed both appeals.
The document discusses the goal set by the UNFCCC to limit global warming to 2°C above pre-industrial levels in order to prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. It explains that keeping warming below 2°C requires near-zero global greenhouse gas emissions by the end of the century through coordinated international efforts. While 2°C of warming may not cause major issues everywhere, it risks triggering significant impacts such as more frequent heat waves, impacts on water supplies, and coral bleaching. Failure to limit warming to 2°C could lead to even greater consequences for ecosystems, agriculture, coastlines and public health.
This document summarizes the significant earthquake that struck Christchurch, New Zealand on February 22, 2011. It was a magnitude 6.3 earthquake located close to the city, causing more severe shaking than the 2010 earthquake. Initial reports found ground shaking exceeded typical building design standards, resulting in widespread damage and collapsed structures. Emergency responders worked to rescue trapped survivors amid ongoing aftershocks. The earthquake will likely result in billions of dollars in losses and place a significant burden on recovery efforts still underway from the prior quake.
The document summarizes the top 10 science stories that attracted media coverage in New Zealand in 2010. Some of the major stories included the Canterbury earthquake, the Pike River mining disaster, the PSA vine disease affecting kiwifruit, proposals to allow mining in conservation areas, debates around lowering the blood alcohol limit and restricting tobacco. Many of the stories involved examining the scientific aspects and implications of these events. In general, the media was found to have provided good to excellent coverage of the science angles in most of these major stories.
1) The Darfield earthquake provided valuable insights into New Zealand's understanding of seismic hazards despite occurring on an unknown fault.
2) Research over decades has improved probabilistic seismic hazard assessments and led to building codes that incorporate learnings from previous quakes.
3) Modern seismic design philosophies focus on ductility and absorbing energy through plastic deformation to make buildings earthquake resilient.
The Australian public has continued to strongly support biotechnologies that provide health or environmental benefits, but their support for genetically modified (GM) foods has dropped slightly since 2007. Key findings from the survey include:
- The application most frequently considered risky was using genetic modification in pest control, while medical uses like stem cells were seen as most useful.
- Long-term evidence of safety and descriptive labelling were the top factors that could increase acceptance of GM foods among non-acceptors.
- Making plants drought resistant and able to grow in salty soils were seen as the most valuable objectives of genetic modification.
- Awareness of which crops are genetically modified in their own state was low.
The document discusses the relationship between regional weather changes in Australia and subsequent earthquakes in surrounding regions. It argues that regional weather changes can reliably predict earthquakes, acting as precursors by occurring 15-30 days before quakes. Specific weather events like cyclones and flooding are claimed to originate from geological processes and heat generation that also cause earthquakes. Methodology discusses how friction between tectonic plates generates heat, warming the ocean and forming weather systems like tropical cyclones, which then precede quakes in surrounding regions.
Emerging researchers - Science Media Centrepetergnz
This document provides tips for scientists on communicating their research to the public. It suggests engaging with the community by inviting people to labs, partnering with museums, starting blogs, and using social media. Good science communicators keep their messages simple, paint pictures with words, and speak in a way their audience can understand. They are also encouraged to summarize their research in 2 sentences and give journalists timely, straightforward information in a way that draws connections to everyday life.
The document discusses the long history of scientific engagement between the UK and New Zealand dating back to James Cook's voyage in 1769 which was sponsored by the Royal Society. It notes that over 240 years, around 30 Fellows of the Royal Society conducted work in New Zealand. While scientific communication between the two countries was strong in the 20th century, funding arrangements to support relationships have diminished. However, the new New Zealand government has prioritized science and research partnerships will be important for a small country like New Zealand to advance science.
This document outlines New Zealand's Marine Oil Spill Response Strategy. The strategy takes a three-tiered approach involving industry, regional councils, and national response led by Maritime New Zealand. It is based on risk assessments that evaluate the likelihood and potential consequences of oil spills. The strategy aims to minimize environmental impacts and protect human safety. Response capabilities are maintained through partnerships between government, industry and other organizations.
The Court of Appeal allowed AgResearch's appeal against a High Court decision that quashed ERMA's acceptance of four broad applications by AgResearch relating to importing, developing, and field testing genetically modified organisms. In three sentences, the Court of Appeal held that:
1) ERMA should be allowed to continue considering the applications and determine if they comply with statutory requirements, without being required to make that assessment prior to acceptance.
2) Judicial review was premature since ERMA's process involves scientific judgments it cannot be expected to make at the outset.
3) The appeal was allowed, the High Court's orders were quashed, and no costs were awarded.
Emerging Issues Paper Genetically Modified Foragespetergnz
Genetically modified forages show promise to improve productivity, drought resistance, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Traits under development include improved nutrient content and tolerance to drought. However, release of GM organisms raises concerns about impacts on identity and values. Risks include gene flow between GM and non-GM plants via pollen or seed dispersal. Benefits and risks depend more on the traits than the genetic modification technique. Ongoing research and discussion are needed to understand impacts.
This document discusses the challenges facing New Zealand's pastoral farming industry and potential solutions being researched. It notes that the industry's historically low-cost grazing systems rely on inputs that are affected by climate extremes and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. It then introduces Pastoral Genomics Inc. and AgResearch Ltd., research organizations working to develop improved forages using biotechnology to address these issues. Specifically, they are researching forages with increased drought tolerance, year-round biomass, nitrogen/water use efficiency, and energy/digestibility through traits like high sugars and lipids. Initial field tests show promise for drought-tolerant cisgenic ryegrass. Economic modeling estimates benefits of $75 million to $1.5 billion in GDP
DNA analysis has revolutionized crime solving over the past two decades. In 1990, the first DNA evidence was presented in a New Zealand court. Since then, DNA profiling has progressed from analyzing a few loci to 15 loci, allowing for highly discriminating matches. New Zealand established a national DNA database in 1996, the second in the world. Continual technological advances now allow analysis from very small samples and touch DNA. DNA evidence has helped solve thousands of crimes and exonerate the innocent. New Zealand remains a world leader in DNA expertise and technology.
The document discusses the challenges facing global agriculture in a changing climate. It notes concerns about food security, the role of scientific advances like fertilization and mechanization in increasing yields, and the limitations of arable land and continued population growth. However, rising global temperatures due to climate change are projected to negatively impact major crops and compromise future food security unless agriculture adapts to new climate conditions.
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
The document discusses the benefits of meditation for reducing stress and anxiety. Regular meditation practice can help calm the mind and body by lowering heart rate and blood pressure. Studies have shown that meditating for just 10-20 minutes per day can have significant positive impacts on both mental and physical health over time.
This document analyzes trends in science media coverage over a five year period from 2010 to 2015 based on keyword searches. It shows fluctuations in news articles mentioning various science topics like earthquakes, climate change, influenza, fracking, droughts and more. Major events like natural disasters, political summits, disease outbreaks, and scientific discoveries correlated with spikes in coverage on related issues. The graphs demonstrate how the level of media coverage on different science topics changed significantly over the five year time frame.
This document analyzes trends in science media coverage over a five year period from 2010 to 2015 based on keyword searches. It shows fluctuations in news articles mentioning various science topics like earthquakes, climate change, influenza, fracking, droughts and more. Major events like natural disasters, political summits, disease outbreaks, and scientific discoveries correlated with spikes in coverage on related issues. The graphs demonstrate how the level of media coverage on different science topics changed significantly over the half decade studied.
This judgment concerns an appeal by Donald McDonald against a decision by the Broadcasting Standards Authority that his complaint about an inaccuracy in a TVNZ news broadcast was frivolous and trivial. The Authority declined to determine the complaint. McDonald also appealed a costs order against him for $50. The Court found that the Authority provided sufficient reasons for its decision and did not err in finding the inaccurate distance of a supernova was peripheral to the main story. The Court dismissed both appeals.
The document discusses the goal set by the UNFCCC to limit global warming to 2°C above pre-industrial levels in order to prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. It explains that keeping warming below 2°C requires near-zero global greenhouse gas emissions by the end of the century through coordinated international efforts. While 2°C of warming may not cause major issues everywhere, it risks triggering significant impacts such as more frequent heat waves, impacts on water supplies, and coral bleaching. Failure to limit warming to 2°C could lead to even greater consequences for ecosystems, agriculture, coastlines and public health.
This document summarizes the significant earthquake that struck Christchurch, New Zealand on February 22, 2011. It was a magnitude 6.3 earthquake located close to the city, causing more severe shaking than the 2010 earthquake. Initial reports found ground shaking exceeded typical building design standards, resulting in widespread damage and collapsed structures. Emergency responders worked to rescue trapped survivors amid ongoing aftershocks. The earthquake will likely result in billions of dollars in losses and place a significant burden on recovery efforts still underway from the prior quake.
The document summarizes the top 10 science stories that attracted media coverage in New Zealand in 2010. Some of the major stories included the Canterbury earthquake, the Pike River mining disaster, the PSA vine disease affecting kiwifruit, proposals to allow mining in conservation areas, debates around lowering the blood alcohol limit and restricting tobacco. Many of the stories involved examining the scientific aspects and implications of these events. In general, the media was found to have provided good to excellent coverage of the science angles in most of these major stories.
1) The Darfield earthquake provided valuable insights into New Zealand's understanding of seismic hazards despite occurring on an unknown fault.
2) Research over decades has improved probabilistic seismic hazard assessments and led to building codes that incorporate learnings from previous quakes.
3) Modern seismic design philosophies focus on ductility and absorbing energy through plastic deformation to make buildings earthquake resilient.
The Australian public has continued to strongly support biotechnologies that provide health or environmental benefits, but their support for genetically modified (GM) foods has dropped slightly since 2007. Key findings from the survey include:
- The application most frequently considered risky was using genetic modification in pest control, while medical uses like stem cells were seen as most useful.
- Long-term evidence of safety and descriptive labelling were the top factors that could increase acceptance of GM foods among non-acceptors.
- Making plants drought resistant and able to grow in salty soils were seen as the most valuable objectives of genetic modification.
- Awareness of which crops are genetically modified in their own state was low.
The document discusses the relationship between regional weather changes in Australia and subsequent earthquakes in surrounding regions. It argues that regional weather changes can reliably predict earthquakes, acting as precursors by occurring 15-30 days before quakes. Specific weather events like cyclones and flooding are claimed to originate from geological processes and heat generation that also cause earthquakes. Methodology discusses how friction between tectonic plates generates heat, warming the ocean and forming weather systems like tropical cyclones, which then precede quakes in surrounding regions.
Emerging researchers - Science Media Centrepetergnz
This document provides tips for scientists on communicating their research to the public. It suggests engaging with the community by inviting people to labs, partnering with museums, starting blogs, and using social media. Good science communicators keep their messages simple, paint pictures with words, and speak in a way their audience can understand. They are also encouraged to summarize their research in 2 sentences and give journalists timely, straightforward information in a way that draws connections to everyday life.
The document discusses the long history of scientific engagement between the UK and New Zealand dating back to James Cook's voyage in 1769 which was sponsored by the Royal Society. It notes that over 240 years, around 30 Fellows of the Royal Society conducted work in New Zealand. While scientific communication between the two countries was strong in the 20th century, funding arrangements to support relationships have diminished. However, the new New Zealand government has prioritized science and research partnerships will be important for a small country like New Zealand to advance science.
This document outlines New Zealand's Marine Oil Spill Response Strategy. The strategy takes a three-tiered approach involving industry, regional councils, and national response led by Maritime New Zealand. It is based on risk assessments that evaluate the likelihood and potential consequences of oil spills. The strategy aims to minimize environmental impacts and protect human safety. Response capabilities are maintained through partnerships between government, industry and other organizations.
The Court of Appeal allowed AgResearch's appeal against a High Court decision that quashed ERMA's acceptance of four broad applications by AgResearch relating to importing, developing, and field testing genetically modified organisms. In three sentences, the Court of Appeal held that:
1) ERMA should be allowed to continue considering the applications and determine if they comply with statutory requirements, without being required to make that assessment prior to acceptance.
2) Judicial review was premature since ERMA's process involves scientific judgments it cannot be expected to make at the outset.
3) The appeal was allowed, the High Court's orders were quashed, and no costs were awarded.
Emerging Issues Paper Genetically Modified Foragespetergnz
Genetically modified forages show promise to improve productivity, drought resistance, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Traits under development include improved nutrient content and tolerance to drought. However, release of GM organisms raises concerns about impacts on identity and values. Risks include gene flow between GM and non-GM plants via pollen or seed dispersal. Benefits and risks depend more on the traits than the genetic modification technique. Ongoing research and discussion are needed to understand impacts.
This document discusses the challenges facing New Zealand's pastoral farming industry and potential solutions being researched. It notes that the industry's historically low-cost grazing systems rely on inputs that are affected by climate extremes and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. It then introduces Pastoral Genomics Inc. and AgResearch Ltd., research organizations working to develop improved forages using biotechnology to address these issues. Specifically, they are researching forages with increased drought tolerance, year-round biomass, nitrogen/water use efficiency, and energy/digestibility through traits like high sugars and lipids. Initial field tests show promise for drought-tolerant cisgenic ryegrass. Economic modeling estimates benefits of $75 million to $1.5 billion in GDP
DNA analysis has revolutionized crime solving over the past two decades. In 1990, the first DNA evidence was presented in a New Zealand court. Since then, DNA profiling has progressed from analyzing a few loci to 15 loci, allowing for highly discriminating matches. New Zealand established a national DNA database in 1996, the second in the world. Continual technological advances now allow analysis from very small samples and touch DNA. DNA evidence has helped solve thousands of crimes and exonerate the innocent. New Zealand remains a world leader in DNA expertise and technology.
The document discusses the challenges facing global agriculture in a changing climate. It notes concerns about food security, the role of scientific advances like fertilization and mechanization in increasing yields, and the limitations of arable land and continued population growth. However, rising global temperatures due to climate change are projected to negatively impact major crops and compromise future food security unless agriculture adapts to new climate conditions.