[Newsbits] 7-10.06.2024: High Seas Biodiversity Treaty, TRISHNA Satellite & More

Giant viruses found on Arctic ice, led by Laura Perini from Aarhus University, can eat algae, potentially slowing ice melting. These viruses, discovered through DNA and mRNA analysis from various Arctic samples, are alive and interact with algae. Their complex genes enable advanced biological functions, highlighting significant growth in virology and environmental science.

The TRISHNA mission, a collaboration between ISRO and CNES, aims to monitor Earth’s surface temperature and water management. Set to launch in 2026, it will operate from a sun-synchronous orbit at 761 km altitude for five years. The mission’s primary goals include monitoring energy and water budgets, measuring water stress, and assessing water quality. Secondary goals involve detecting temperature anomalies and monitoring glacier dynamics. TRISHNA’s data will support global projects like Global Water Watch and GEOGLAM, aiding in environmental and crop management planning.

The Bonn Climate Change Conference, starting on June 3, 2024, is crucial for setting a new climate finance goal at COP 29 in Baku. Key discussions include the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), highlighting differences between developed and developing countries. Technical Expert Dialogues focused on goals, transparency, and organization, while the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) emphasized clear reporting guidelines to ensure accountability and avoid confusion.

The Haryana government has removed the age cap on the “Mukhyamantri Kisan Evam Khetihar Mazdoor Jeevan Suraksha Yojana,” allowing all ages to receive financial aid in case of death or disability while operating agricultural machinery. This change, led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, aims to expand the safety net for all agricultural workers. The scheme provides compensation ranging from Rs 37,500 to Rs 5 lakh.

Panama is relocating the Guna community from Gardi Sugdub due to rising sea levels caused by climate change. The island faces severe flooding, saltwater intrusion, and erosion. The government plans to move 300 families to Carti Sugtupu, costing $1.2 billion. This relocation disrupts the Guna’s cultural and economic ties to the sea. Adaptation strategies include sea walls, floating towns, and global cooperation under the Paris Agreement.

Nvidia, a leading AI chipmaker, recently surpassed Apple with a market value of $3.019 trillion, driven by a 5.2% stock price increase. Nvidia’s stock has surged 147% this year, dominating the AI semiconductor market. The company plans to release the Rubin AI chip platform in 2026, following the powerful Blackwell chip. Nvidia’s 10-for-1 stock split aims to attract more investors. Founded in 1993, Nvidia has pioneered GPU technology and AI advancements.