IBM outlines commitment to developing the Quantum ecosystem in India More than 1,400 students trained on Qis.. – ETCIO.com

IBM outlines its commitment to grow a quantum ready workforce and build an ecosystem to nurture the quantum community in India.

With the announcement of the National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications, interest in quantum computing has been surging in India and it is an opportune time to make it ubiquitous and accessible to a diverse audience to unlock its true potential. Since making the quantum computer accessible via the cloud in 2016, IBM has focused on developing an ecosystem of developers, scientists, educators, and professionals through open-source access to its real quantum hardware and software (Qiskit is an open-source quantum software development kit built by IBM).

Given Indias demographic dividend it has the potential to be a leading source of quantum computing skills and IBM has been driving numerous initiatives to build and grow quantum community in India. The Global IBM Quantum Challenges, Qiskit Global Summer School, and Qiskit Challenge India have witnessed a growing interest and participation from quantum enthusiasts in India.

Gargi Dasgupta Director, IBM Research India said, India was selected as a growth market for IBM Quantum due to the growing interest and investment in quantum computing. However, for India to have a leading role in the new quantum industry, concerted efforts are required to bring together industry, academia and government across skills, training, research, technology access, industry, and economy. IBM aims to advance the quantum ecosystem in India by hosting skill-building programs like Qiskit Challenge India which are open to all, and Qiskit India Professor Meetup by providing access to educational resources, software as well as real quantum hardware, accessible over the IBM Cloud.

And contributors from India continue to shape our learning materials, submitting edits and input to the Qiskit textbook, and routinely responding to requests for feedback as we continue to build better educational materials and tools. As we develop more training focusing on quantum computing applications, we anticipate that learners in India will continue to participate and refine the material with us helping new learners and the existing workforce get quantum ready.

Anamita Guha, Global Product Lead, IBM Quantum & Qiskit, said Our growth team has seen unprecedented enthusiasm in quantum computing and Qiskit from India, and has eagerly supported this burgeoning quantum community. Were excited to continue offering opportunities like hackathons, contests, and professor meetups, to build the foundation of a quantum ecosystem that we hope will make India a global leader in this exciting field.

IBM now has more than 130 organizations on the IBM Quantum Network (including Fortune 500 companies, academic institutions, research labs, and startups), who have access to more than 30 different quantum computers deployed since 2016, and an active community of more than 280,000 registered users, who run more than one billion quantum circuits on these systems every day for research and industry use cases.

IBM recently unveiled its Quantum Roadmap with a suite of increasingly advanced quantum processors, with the goal of deploying a 1,121-qubit system by 2023, which IBM sees as an inflection point that will mark our ability to implement error correction and scale up our devices, while simultaneously be complex enough to explore potential Quantum Advantagesproblems that we can solve more efficiently on a quantum computer than on the worlds best supercomputers. From computer science courses to chemistry and business studies, students need to become familiar with this technology in order to consider career paths rooted in quantum computing. The possibilities that the quantum era offers are profoundly exciting, and it needs far greater participation to leap forward building a pipeline of talent with the right set of skills is a forward step.

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IBM outlines commitment to developing the Quantum ecosystem in India More than 1,400 students trained on Qis.. - ETCIO.com

CrossTower Added as Liquidity Source to the Blockfills ECN Ecosystem – GlobeNewswire

NEW YORK, Dec. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CrossTower Inc., a digital asset exchange operator founded by capital markets veterans on a mission to mainstream digital asset investing, today announced it has been added as a liquidity source to the Blockfills ECN. Launched earlier this year, CrossTower is one of the fastest growing U.S.-regulated crypto exchanges.

Blockfills is an electronic, off exchange, digital liquidity provider that operates using an electronic communication network model (ECN). Blockfills offers its clients deep liquidity and cutting-edge technologies to deploy this liquidity and market data to end-users anonymously and in an impactful way. Adding CrossTowers liquidity and competitive pricing to the Blockfills ECN will give Blockfills clients an opportunity to trade at even lower costs. In addition, CrossTower will gain deep liquidity access from Blockfills.

Being added to the Blockfills ECN is recognition of the liquidity weve built on our platform in such a short time, said CrossTower Co-Founder and CEO Kapil Rathi. Were excited to partner with BlockFills and look forward to helping their clients achieve best execution and lower their total cost of trading.

We believe our clients will greatly benefit from having CrossTower added as a source of liquidity on our ECN, said Blockfills CEO, Nick Hammer. Weve been keeping an eye on CrossTower and found the spreads and depth of their order book to be among the best in the digital asset industry. They should be a great source of liquidity and a very attractive place to trade given their creative and competitive pricing model.

Today, CrossTower operates two exchanges, CrossTower Global supports international customers and CrossTower US supports domestic United States customers.

Those interested can access the CrossTower platform here.

ABOUT CROSSTOWER

CrossTower is an exchange operator founded by capital markets veterans on a mission to mainstream digital asset trading and investing. We have built a multi-asset platform for institutional and individual investors with best-in-class safeguards, services and capabilities to make the next-generation financial markets a reality. CrossTower has methodically built its platform, leveraging its trading experience, technology, operational infrastructure, innovative pricing as well as regulatory and client service models, to ensure the success of the exchange at launch and well into the future. For more information, visit http://www.crosstower.com.

ABOUT BLOCKFILLS

Blockfills was the first electronic, off-exchange, digital liquidity and technology provider operating using an electronic communication network model (ECN). The Company has successfully built and deployed a cutting-edge multi-asset technology platform that provides price discovery, electronic order matching, smart order routing and trade reconciliation solutions for institutions in the digital spot, derivatives and lending markets. Blockfills has clients in over 50 countries with offices in Chicago, New York, London and the Cayman Islands. For more information, visit https://www.blockfills.com/

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CrossTower Added as Liquidity Source to the Blockfills ECN Ecosystem - GlobeNewswire

code Talks: a podcast series on driving innovation with an open health care ecosystem – cerner.com

2020 has taught us that health IT must evolve at a rapid pace to meet the needs of patients and providers. Creating a seamlessly connected world is key to breakthrough innovation.

The Cerner Open Developer Experience (code) program encourages third-party vendors and care organizations to build apps on top of Cerner technology that can quickly advance the health industry through improved interoperability capabilities.

In our three-part podcast series,code Talks, tech leaders share their insights around advancing care through collaboration and open and interoperable health ecosystems.

In this episode, we hear from Aaron Sheedy, chief operating officer and co-founder ofXealth, a platform that enablesclinicianstointegrate, prescribe and monitordigitalhealth tools forpatientsfrom one location in the electronic health record (EHR). Aaron talks about how the Cerner code validation and certification process helped drive quality, safety, security and usability for the Xealth app. He also gives his outlook for digital health and application programming interfaces.

Amwell offers telehealth integration within the Cerner EHR to give providers a single, unified workflow and improve access to care for patients. In this episode, Amwell Senior Vice President of Devices, Cory Costley, dives into the rapid growth of telehealth during COVID-19, examines how the Cerner code program helps break down barriers to health IT adoption and explores the industrys shift toward more proactive care.

Shez Partovi, M.D., worldwide lead of business development for healthcare, life sciences, genomics and medical devices at Amazon Web Services (AWS), discusses the importance of connecting patient data across the care continuum. Dr. Partovi also explains the role of interoperability, open standards in reducing care costs and providing more personalized health care.

The code program is leading health care innovation by opening our ecosystem to create new technologies and applications. Developers interested in building applications that integrate into client workflows can learn more here.

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code Talks: a podcast series on driving innovation with an open health care ecosystem - cerner.com

Building a Cost-Effective, High-Performing BI Ecosystem on the Cloud – Datanami

Sponsored Content by Kyvos

The shift from on-premise environments to the cloud is happening at a tremendous pace. However, once enterprises move their data to the cloud and make it available to their business users, they face several challenges, such as performance slowdowns and an explosion in cloud costs. Thats because, in a typical business scenario, when the data is available across the enterprise, a large number of users begin to run complex analytical queries. Now, if each query needs to scan billions of rows or do joins, group by, or other computations at runtime, it consumes a lot of resources.

The problem escalates further as data volumes rise and usage increases. Queries become slower and more expensive, and you can soon run into unconstrained costs. The question now is how to build a future-ready BI ecosystem on the cloud that delivers high-performance for users across the enterprise while still controlling costs.

An innovative way to overcome these challenges and perform interactive analysis on the cloud is topre-aggregate data and build OLAP cubes directly on your cloud storage or data warehouse. Once these cubes are built, queries can be served directly from the cube, and you dont have to go back to the data warehouse to process the information.

However, this cannot be achieved using traditional OLAP solutions as they can neither sustain the scale of modern data workloads nor fit in the cloud ecosystem. To solve this, Kyvos has developed a cloud-native OLAP technology Smart OLAP that can not only deal with todays data but scale effortlessly for future data requirements.

The Four Pillars of Smart OLAP Technology

Designed for the cloud, Smart OLAP leverages the native elasticity of the cloud to build cubes on extremely large datasets and then stores them on the cloud infrastructure itself. So, now when the query comes in, there are two advantages:

Watch this 4-minute video to learnhow Smart OLAP transforms BI on the cloud

For the business user, the experience is seamless and transparent. They can get their hands on huge amounts of data at the granularity they need, with the response times they are looking for, without the added cost burden. Another key advantage is that they can plug-in their existing BI tools to these cubes and perform interactive analytics in a familiar environment.

Download this whitepaper to learn how Smart OLAP combines the power of scalable data platforms with OLAP-based analytics, making it easy for you to build a cost-effective, high-performing BI ecosystem on the cloud.

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Building a Cost-Effective, High-Performing BI Ecosystem on the Cloud - Datanami

GPX India adds NIXI to the GPX Interconnection Ecosystem – Express Computer

GPX India has added National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) to the GPX Interconnection Ecosystem. It is the 5th Internet Exchange operational at the GPX Mumbai Data Center campus, in addition to AMS-IX, Bharat IX, DE-CIX, and Extreme IX. GPX is the only Data Center in India with the presence of a total number of five Internet Exchanges.

GPX Data Center campus offers a Carrier Content Cloud rich neutral ecosystem comprising 12 Carriers, 140+ ISPs, 5 Internet Exchanges, 8 Cloud Service Providers, 9 CDNs, and leading global content providers. With the addition of NIXI to the rich Interconnection Ecosystem, GPXs customers now have the opportunity to connect to NIXI, the oldest and one of the most significant Internet Exchanges in the country for low-latency and cost-effective interconnection solutions to expand their reach. NIXI has played a pioneering role in being an enabler for improved interconnection between ISPs and Telecom Service Providers.

Manoj Paul, Managing Director, GPX India, said, GPX would like to thank NIXI for setting up their PoP at its Mumbai DC campus. NIXI was the only major Internet Exchange of India, which was not present at GPX. NIXI will be connecting to OTTs and CDNs for the first time at GPX, as in all other PoPs, NIXI provides interconnections only between ISPs and Carriers. NIXI has a distinct value proposition for ISPs, and its IX PoP at the GPX DC will leverage and further strengthen GPXs unparalleled and high-performance Interconnection Ecosystem. We will work with NIXI along with other Internet Exchanges and the Ministry of IT to further develop the Internet Ecosystem in India to add new customer segments and enhance our value proposition.

If you have an interesting article / experience / case study to share, please get in touch with us at [emailprotected]

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GPX India adds NIXI to the GPX Interconnection Ecosystem - Express Computer

Ecologists have studied the role carrion plays in the ecosystem of the Bavarian Forest National Park – India Education Diary

In the photograph you can see a lynx, standing in the depths of the forest, with both forepaws placed possessively on the cadaver of a deer. The picture comes from one of the many photo-traps set up as part of a study by a team headed by Prof. Dr. Marco Heurich. Heurich is the wild animal ecologist for the Bavarian Forest National Park and Professor of Wild Animal Ecology and Nature Conservation Biology at the University of Freiburg. The aim of the study was to rethink the importance of carrion in the ecosystem, he says. To reach their result, the researchers analyzed 270,279 photos shot over a total of 15,373 nights spanning roughly six years.

Enjoy your meal! The lynx is a rare predator. Photo: Bavarian Forest National Park

Previously the Bavarian Forest National Park disposed of or sold the bodies of wildlife that were run over or else hunted in accordance with stock management rules. Now we leave dead animals be, as it would be in the natural cycle of an ecosystem, Marco Heurich explains. Things arent as natural as all that, however, as the scientists vary the choice of cadavers available. Amongst other things, the team observed whether scavengers preferred eating the meat fresh or thawed, if one time of year was better than another for setting out carrion, and whether large animals like the lynx, which range the national park along with 29 other related species, would rather eat deep in the woods or out in the open.

The photo-traps capture diversity

The photo-traps not only reveal predators such as lynx which are strictly protected and rare and foxes fairly common but also pine marten, badgers, wild cats, buzzards, red kite and white-tailed eagles, which were also interested in the cadavers. Three of the seventeen species of vertebrates that frequented the cadavers put out for them are on the Red List of species threatened with extinction, Heurich states. Two of the birds that were observed are also on the Red List of endangered birds in Bavaria.

In winter carrion plays an important part as an additional source of nutrition. The meat can deteriorate too rapidly in summer, causing difficulties for the animals, the researcher adds. In the warmer months, insects, bacteria and fungi are responsible for decomposition. If dung beetles and blowflies find the carrion before the large animals do its soon gone. Unique vegetation also develops on the plot of land as a result of the nutrients absorbed at the site of the spoils. It becomes a hotspot for life, says Heurich. This hotspot of microbes and fungi is now increasingly interesting the scientists, The focus of our first study was on vertebrates, but now were broadening our focus to include all those involved in this nutrient cycle.

Carrion is part of the ecosystem

The wild animal researcher is unhappy that scavengers such as vultures or corvids have a bad reputation and that the word Aas is an insult in German. Devouring carrion is an important and completely natural process in an ecosystem, stresses Heurich. So what was the scavengers response to the food set out for them? The animals turned out not to be fussy about the freshness of the meat, whether or not it was thawed. They also werent bothered about the timing when the lure was set out.

On the other hand, they were concerned about the choice of location. Birds preferred low-density woodland, while for lynx it was denser areas. Foxes have a clever trick, according to Heurich, Theyre alert to gatherings of corvids, because that is a sign of prey. So its no surprise that foxes were the most frequent visitors to the feeding sites, closely followed by pine marten and the common raven. Best were large cadavers such as red deer with a weight of 70 to 80 kilograms, as they offered enough food to satiate many species, the researcher explains.

Less intervention is better

In the Bavarian Forest National Park were intervening less and less in the processes of the ecosystem, and the lynx is helping us to keep the red deer population in equilibrium, says Heurich. Roe deer havent been hunted for a long time now, however wild boar and red deer are still hunted. This is carried out to protect the managed forests and fields in the vicinity of the national park; to prevent wild boar from digging up gardens, for example.

From the study, the scientists deduce that feeding with carrion in winter in accordance with the latest findings can play an important role in the ecosystem of the national park. This is also worthwhile for the new population of wolves which is being added to the group of major predators, says Heurich. Weve already observed a wolf on a cadaver, and were delighted that there havent yet been any problems with the newcomers.

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Ecologists have studied the role carrion plays in the ecosystem of the Bavarian Forest National Park - India Education Diary

ICON blockchain expands DeFi ecosystem with ETH Orbit Bridge integration – CryptoNinjas

ICON, one of the worlds largest decentralized networks, today announced an integration with ozys Orbit Bridge, allowing Ethereum-based digital assets to be transferred onto the ICON Network. Orbit Bridge is a decentralized Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) platform. Its interoperability protocol will help ICON expand its DeFi capabilities by connecting it to other top blockchains and their applications.

This integration brings more value to the ICON Network, specifically its DeFi ecosystem, by bridging assets between different blockchains and bringing more economic activity to the ICON Network. Traders can now take advantage of arbitrage opportunities, and DeFi projects built on ICON can now enable borrowing and lending of assets across different networks and bridges. Ultimately, this all leads to more transactions and more value exchange on the ICON Network.

The Orbit Bridge integration is an exciting next step for the growth of the ICON DeFi ecosystem, and we look forward to bringing this technology to the community, said Ricky Dodds, Strategy and Communications Lead at ICON. As blockchain technology continues to progress, there will be a number of different ways to bridge assets between different networks. For example, we expect to see Orbit Ethereum and BTP Ethereum on ICON when ICON 2.0 launches. We look forward to our continued collaboration with the ozys team.

Orbit Bridge is already in production with two other blockchains, making ICON the third. The integration will allow the following Ethereum-based assets to be transferred onto the ICON Network:

Additionally, ICONPOOL will add liquidity pools for all 14 assets and pair them with ICX. ICON will also introduce liquidity mining programs for some tokens. ICON plans to roll out additional DeFi products in Q1 of 2021.

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ICON blockchain expands DeFi ecosystem with ETH Orbit Bridge integration - CryptoNinjas

There’s an ecosystem beneath your feetand it needs protection, new report says – Science Magazine

Plants, insects, and other organisms depend on and sustain soil ecosystems.

By Elizabeth PennisiDec. 4, 2020 , 4:00 AM

Reach down and scoop up some soil. Cupped in your hands may be 5000 different kinds of creaturesand as many individual cells as there are humans on the globe. That random handful might hold microscopic fungi, decomposing plant matter, a whisker-size nematode munching on the fungi, and a predatory, pinhead-size mite about to pounce on the nematode. One bacterium may fend off another with a potent antibiotic. Its a whole world of often overlooked biodiversity.

Today, on the eve of World Soil Day, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has released its first ever global assessment of the biodiversity in this underground world. Some 300 experts have pooled their knowledge and data to describe the diversity of these organisms, the roles they play in both natural and agricultural environments, and the threats they face.

The organisms below ground are arguably just as important, if not more important, than whats above ground, says Noah Fierer, a soil ecologist at the University of Colorado, Boulder, who did not contribute to the report. The report details how they boost crop growth and purify soil and water. Together with plant root systems, these organisms store more carbon, potentially for longer, than the aboveground parts of trees do. Depending on how we handle soil, it could become a help or a burden to face the crisis of biodiversity or climate change, says Francisco Pugnaire, a soil and plant ecologist at the Spanish National Research Councils Experimental Station of Arid Zones.

Yet with each pass of the bulldozer or tractor, each forest fire, each oil spill, even the constant traffic of hikers along a popular trail, more and more soil organisms are being killed off. By compiling research on these subterranean ecosystems and how they affect visible ones, the reports authors hope to convince scientists, policymakers, and the general public to take steps to slow this loss.

You just cant have a Mars-like soil and expect to maintain the food supply and forests, warns Diana Wall, an ecologist at Colorado State University who contributed to the report. Current conservation efforts are not helping much, she adds. For example, soil biodiversity hot spots arent necessarily in the same place as the biodiversity hot spots that conservationists focus on. We are managing [conservation] by what we see above ground, which doesnt necessarily match whats below ground. In contrast, Fierer says, If you preserve the soil, you will likely preserve the whole ecosystem.

Soil is a mix of organic material, minerals, gases, and other components that provide the substrate for plants to grow. About 40% of all animals find food, shelter, or refuge in soil during part of their life cycle.

Scientists have mostly focused on the largest and smallest soil creatures. For centuries, natural historians have observed ants, termites, and even earthworms and moles that chew, wiggle, and dig their way among soils particles, some feasting on decaying leaves and other debris and some feasting on each other. Those ecosystem engineers aerate the soil and create underground passageways that make soil more amenable for other life. And over the past several decades, microbiologists sequencing soil DNA have discovered an astonishing diversity of bacteria and fungi, which process that litter into organic material.

But in between the scales of macroscopic animals and microbes lie thousands of long-overlooked tiny creaturesthe micro- and meso-fauna. Microscopic protists, nematodes, and tardigrades inhabit the watery films surrounding soil particles. Slightly larger animals up to 2 millimeters in size, such as mites, springtails, and insect larvae, live in the airy pores between those particles, helping make soil one of the most biologically diverse habitats on Earth. How little we know [about these creatures] is a bit overwhelming, Fierer says.

This diversity creates a rich, complex ecosystem that boosts crop growth, breaks down pollutants, and can serve as a nearly inexhaustible sink for carbon. Some soil organisms promote plant diversity and many have yielded important compounds, from antibiotics to natural pesticides. Without soil organisms and the activities they carry out, it would be impossible for other organisms to survive, says Stephen Wood, a soil ecologist at the Nature Conservancy.

Hidden below ground, these ecosystems seemed immune to aboveground disturbance, Wood says. For a long time, soil scientists thought that soil microorganisms were so well spread around the world that land management would not harm them, he explains. We now know that soil microorganisms can be very specific to very specific habitats and species, habitats that are rapidly disappearing as farms and cities expand.

The report lists a dozen human activities taking a major toll on soil organisms. They include deforestation, intense agriculture, acidification due to pollutants, salinization from improper irrigation, soil compaction, surface sealing, fire, and erosion. If you pave over a site, you are sealing off an entire belowground ecosystem, Fierer says. And thats happening all over the globe.

A few governments and companies are making some progress. Several states are considering legislation that would help protect soils from destructive human activities. In China, the Agricultural Green Development program works to conserve soil by avoiding tilling and by interweaving different crops to preserve biodiversity. However, Most organizations want to protectsoilbiodiversityas a means to an end[to] the benefit of people and/or nature, Wood points out.

Some researchers hope the report will encourage protecting soil organisms for their own sake. Soil biodiversity is huge, and we must not destroy it without knowing what potential there is for improving sustainability, says Mary Scholes, a biogeochemist at theUniversity of the Witwatersrand.

Fierer thinks the new assessment will also awaken a sense of wonder. My hope is people will look at this document and say Huh, I never thought about [soil organisms] and all the things they do for me.

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There's an ecosystem beneath your feetand it needs protection, new report says - Science Magazine

Apple M1 is the boost the Windows ecosystem needed: Qualcomm – ZDNet

The Snapdragon 888

With recent tests showing that putting Windows onto Apple Silicon absolutely spanks the performance currently available on Qualcomm-made processors, one could be forgiven for thinking Qualcomm was apprehensive about its future desktop prospects.

However, Qualcomm SVP and general manager for mobile, compute, and infrastructure Alex Katouzian told journalists on Wednesday that Apple's new chip was a validation for putting mobile chips into laptops.

"As we've seen during the pandemic age and I think this is going to continue for many years to come, video conferencing and remote working locations are going to become more and more important which means you have to have the capability of great video conferencing, you have to have the camera capability, you have to have the longevity of the battery, you should be able to work from any place that you are, inside your house or outside your house, and reach your work environment in a secure fashion," he said.

"All of those things are validation of what we've been preaching and I think the strength is going to come from the fact that our partnership with Microsoft is going to be much stronger and extended into the future.

"I think many, many parties realise that the Windows-based ecosystem needs a boost like this, and we're the partner of choice to make that happen -- so, it's a great opportunity and a great validation for Qualcomm."

Hours earlier, Qualcomm took the wraps off its new Snapdragon 888 chip, which will support 5G at millimetre-wave and sub-6GHz frequencies on "all major bands worldwide". It will also support carrier aggregation, standalone and non-standalone modes, and dynamic spectrum sharing.

The company said it "completely re-engineered" its Hexagon processor that can now perform at 26 tera operations per second and updated its Sensing Hub to allow for lower-power, always-on AI processing.

On the image front, the chip can capture photos and video at 2.7 gigapixels per second, a 35% boost on the prior generation.

A notable absence among the list of Android phone makers that said they would use the 888 was Samsung. Those on the list included Asus, Lenovo, LG, Meizu, Motorola, Nubia, Realme, OnePlus, Oppo, Sharp, Vivo, Xiaomi, and ZTE.

Last month, it was reported the United States had granted approval to Qualcomm to sell 4G chips for mobile phones to Huawei.

Speaking on Wednesday, Qualcomm president Cristiano Amon said the company was in the fortunate position of being able to "meet the objectives of both sides" of the trade war.

"We look at ourselves as probably a company that provides a lot of stability ... in our sector of technology between the two countries, so I think if you look in the essence of our business model, we have a licensing business model. We don't need to transfer technology. We open license that technology, and there's respect of intellectual property which is consistent with some of the United States' claims," Amon said.

"I think all of our customers in China are licensed, and when we see the respect of intellectual property, we provide export of semiconductors which is in, from my United States perspective, it's in the direction of increasing commerce of exports to China.

"We allow the China ecosystem with the Belt and Road Initiative building, on our platform, the mobile ecosystem of China to not only support the transition of China domestic to 5G, but to expand to other markets."

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Apple M1 is the boost the Windows ecosystem needed: Qualcomm - ZDNet

An overview of key players in the private network ecosystem – RCR Wireless News

Private cellular networks are seen by many as a major opportunity to set up bespoke networks in support of industrial internet of things projects and in service of applications where data sovereignty is paramount. While enterprises can build their own network with dedicated spectrum that they either own or lease, that is not the only way that private 5G networks are being put together.

According to Karim El Malki, the CEO of Athonet, the past few years have witnessed an underlying paradigm shift when it comes to who is involved in delivering network connectivity to enterprises.

Were going from a world where it used to be telecommunications was a sector that was mainly focused on giving people phones or giving them connectivity at home, so it was very a consumer-centric vision, Malki explained. Now, were moved into an area with 5G where its not about the consumer anymore. Its the enterprise, the industry, the hospitals, the airports.

As a result, what used to be within the realm of big telco players the average consumer is now moving towards the big enterprise, and therefore, there is no guarantee that telcos are equipped to serve the growing private network market, leaving a wide opening for new players. Furthermore, those who traditionally served the enterprise space the Wi-Fi guys now have additional competition.

The Wi-Fi players have been good at giving the enterprise what they really want, which is a product that is simple and gives them what they need, provided Malki, adding that the telco sector has always been more complex and less transparent in comparison, making it slightly less desirable for an enterprise IT team that wants near-complete control over its network and data.

Simple, though, will no longer cut it for those enterprise who are finding that the number of devices and assets that need reliable connectivity continue to grow.

We are left with a growing demand for the coverage, security and predictability of cellular connectivity, but with the ease and control that is reminiscent of Wi-Fi. It is precisely this emerging balance that has led to new players entering the market to offer private cellular networks, whether 4G LTE or 5G.

Big names in cloud computing, such as Google and Microsoft, are already well-positioned to sell private wireless networks because they are already actively deploying edge-clouds into enterprises to run IoT and other applications.

System integrators (SIs), whose have a much narrower focus in the sense that they tend to work with specific verticals, are also major players in this space. Due to the level of vertical specialization that they bring to the table, SIs are often highly trusted by enterprises and are thought to have deep understanding of a particular customers needs.

Telecommunications equipment vendors, like Nokia, are working closely with system integrators and according to Stephane Daeuble, Nokias head of enterprise solutions marketing, there is an understanding that a single company cant tackle every single segment.

Weve decided to focus on a set of industries and the other ones are handled by partners, he explained further. Weve developed a lot of vertical skillset and understanding.

Nokias recent partnership with Germany-based industrial IoT specialist MYNXG, which offers networking integration for the industrial sector, is a solid example of how equipment vendors are working with system integrators. MYNXG recruited Nokia to deploy a private 5G campus network at its development center in Nuremburg to explore using the technology as a platform for industrial-grade networking and integration with its own IoT platform offering.

In addition, because vendors like Nokia recognized the need for private networks early on, Daeuble said that they also focused on partnering with those on the industrial device side of things to ensure that there were enough devices and systems capable of communicating with private cellular networks.

There was no reason to put a fantastic network in a port or mine, for instance, if you cant find port and mine things that talk to it. That was a big upfront realization at Nokia. The industrial ecosystem aspect is in a position where we have a good base today with 4G LTE technology where we can almost always find the right device and assets that talk the language, he stated.

But, then, he continued, we have to start again with 5G. There is no point in implementing a 5G network if nothing can talk to it. This will take another three to five years.

For more information on private networks and how they compare to Wi-Fi and public networks, check out RCR Wireless News upcomingwebinaron the topic.

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An overview of key players in the private network ecosystem - RCR Wireless News

Polkadot Joins Hands with Chainlink to Overcome Decentralized Nature of Its… – Coinspeaker

For people who are interested in running a Polkadot node, there is a thousand validators program in the pipeline that aims at boosting the number of validators by 1000.

In a bid to help overcome the decentralized feature of its ecosystem, Polkadot has announced an alliance with Chainlink. Using the Polkadot network, the ground would be provided for its community to engage in a discussion with the Oracle Network Chainlink recognized as part of its founding members.

The announced decentralized finance alliance makes them the latest rival of Ethereum to do so. Tidal finance, Plasm network, Polkaswap, non-custodial automated market maker, layer-2 technology provider and decentralized insurance market are the other known founding members. The idea is to create and promote discussions that have to do with DeFi on the platform.

For people who are interested in running a Polkadot node, there is a thousand validators program in the pipeline that aims at boosting the number of validators by 1000. This is much similar to the Kusama network introduced with just 25 validators but surged to 180 by February. As of now, the number of validators is around 700 with about 393 in the waiting. Kusama, an unrefined and unaudited release of Polkadot is now seeking to scale to thousand validator nodes.

Dan Kochis, the global head of business development at Chainlink has expressed his excitement about being part of the team that seeks to change the direction of Polkadots growing ecosystem of the decentralized financial application. According to him, there is a higher chance of the Polkadot ecosystem becoming stronger when they consider promoting the best practices for DeFi protocols by developers. Currently, developers who intend to build applications on the Polkadot network are most welcome by the team.

Interestingly, a lot of stakes are considering third-party service providers with just 249 validators spotted on the network. This is very surprising because two out of three of the Polkadots supply is being staked.

With $4.6 billion, Polkadot is the 9th highest ranked cryptocurrency by market cap. The Polkadot network takes advantage of Parachain, a part of the blockchain designed to run higher transactions than Ethereum. Transactions on parachains are spread across different computers and so can process more transactions than the blockchain.

Many people refer to Polkadot as the Ethereum killer as it offers better services than the network. Contrary, KR1s Van Schreven says Polkadots ecosystem shareholders do not think Polkadot is an Ethereum killer but complements it. Having tracked about 230 projects built on the platform, he believes that the Polkadot ecosystem is a natural progression of the entire ecosystem.

Polkadot can attract more developers as there has been an issue of throughput and bottlenecks associated with Ethereum. These stated issues have caused congestion and higher transaction fees on the network recently.

Schreven believes that the aspect of Polkadot that has to do with cross-chain will help the growth of economic activities from all the known chains.

Excellent John K. Kumi is a cryptocurrency and fintech enthusiast, operations manager of a fintech platform, writer, researcher, and a huge fan of creative writing. With an Economics background, he finds much interest in the invisible factors that causes price change in anything measured with valuation. He has been in the crypto/blockchain space in the last five (5) years. He mostly watches football highlights and movies in his free time.

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Polkadot Joins Hands with Chainlink to Overcome Decentralized Nature of Its... - Coinspeaker

Programme launched to strengthen tech ecosystem in Western Cape – – Ventureburn

The Western Cape Governments Digital Economy Unit within the Department of Economic Development and Tourism has launched the regions first programme dedicated to strengthening the local tech startup ecosystem.

The launch of the programme further affirms the Western Cape as Africas tech hub

Titled the DashTech programme, it aims to support the regions tech ecosystem by optimising growth for local tech startups and enabling job creation in the digital economy of the Western Cape.

David Maynier, Western Cape Governments Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities sheds light on the launch of the new programme and its overall aims.

To further strengthen our position as Africas tech capital, Digital Economy Unit in the Department of Economic Development, have launched the first DashTech programme to build on the local startup culture, to support the tech ecosystem and create an enabling environment for future growth and job creation in the digital economy in the Western Cape.

The programme kicked off its first session of events in November, coinciding with tech month in the region. The programme held events that facilitate a platform where startups could connect with potential investors, generate innovative ideas, collaborate with other businesses, enter new markets, improve local product development, and more.

With an innovative approach, the DashTech programme aims to fill existing gaps within the funding scene along with available accelerators and incubators.

The Dash-Tech programme held in November 2020 covered the following areas of the tech ecosystem:

Following the launch of the Western Capes tech ecosystem initiative, the Dash-Tech programme is an extension of the regions intentions to establish itself as the continents tech hub. (see this story)

The programmes overall objective is to create the best environment for companies to come together and drive business growth which will contribute to the economy in the Western Cape.

According to a statement by the Western Cape Government, the region is home to many tech and digital businesses that are primarily based in Cape Town and Stellenbosch.

Various companies include Silicon Cape Initiative, Loudhailer, IEASA Interactive Entertainment South Africa), CiTi (Cape Innovation and Technology Initiative) and KPMG will function as hosts for DashTech programme events.

The programmes overall objective is to create the best environment for companies to come together and drive business growth which will contribute to the economy in the Western Cape.

Read more: Western Cape launches tech ecosystem initiativeRead more: Google invests R2.2-billion into Western Cape

Featured image: Finding Dan | Dan Grinwis via Unsplash

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Programme launched to strengthen tech ecosystem in Western Cape - - Ventureburn

Update on Intel’s Neuromorphic Ecosystem Growth and Progress – Business Wire

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Whats New: Today, Intel shared an update on progress within the Intel Neuromorphic Research Community (INRC). The group has grown rapidly since its inception in 2018 and now includes more than 100 members, with Intel announcing today the addition of Lenovo, Logitech, Mercedes-Benz and Prophesee to explore the value of neuromorphic computing for business use cases. Additionally, Intel summarized a growing body of research results from INRC members that used the companys neuromorphic research test chip, Loihi.

In two short years, weve formed a vibrant community comprising hundreds of researchers around the world inspired by the promise of neuromorphic computing to deliver orders of magnitude gains in computing efficiency, speed and intelligent functionality. For the first time, we are seeing a quantitative picture emerge that validates this promise. Together with our INRC partners, we plan to build on these insights to enable wide-ranging disruptive commercial applications for this nascent technology.Mike Davies, director of Intels Neuromorphic Computing Lab

Why It Matters: Intel created the INRC because it believes no one organization alone will effectively unlock the full potential of neuromorphic computing. By collaborating with some of the leading researchers in this field spanning academia, industry and government, Intel is working to overcome the challenges in the development of neuromorphic computing and to progress it from research prototypes to industry-leading products over the coming years.

Intel and its partners have demonstrated orders of magnitude gains for real-world edge use cases and are seeing early progress in scaling these workloads to solve larger computational problems. As neuromorphic computing continues to advance, Intel and the INRC have also uncovered various potential real-world use cases for neuromorphic technology, such as enabling more efficient and adaptive robotics; rapidly searching large databases for similar content; and allowing edge devices to make difficult planning and optimization decisions in real time. The addition of Lenovo, Logitech, Mercedes-Benz and Prophesee to the INRC along with existing Fortune 500 and government members showcases the steady maturing of neuromorphic technology and its coming graduation from academic laboratories into industry applications.

Results: Through ongoing development, prototyping and testing of applications built on Intels neuromorphic systems, Intel and INRC members are compiling a growing body of results that show consistent gains across a wide range of workloads. Existing results, such as mimicking the human olfactory system and bringing event-based touch sensing to robotics, combined with new benchmarks outlined at Intel Labs Day, paint a picture of neuromorphic computing being well-suited for an emerging class of bio-inspired intelligent workloads that also have commercial relevance.

Benchmarking updates highlighted at Intel Labs Day include:

Additionally, Intel and partners unveiled two state-of-the-art neuromorphic robotics demonstrations at Intel Labs Day. Working with researchers from ETH Zurich, Intel showed Loihi adaptively controlling a horizon-tracking drone platform achieving closed-loop speeds up to 20 kilohertz with 200 microseconds of visual processing latency. This represents a 1,000 times gain in combined efficiency and speed compared to conventional solutions. Tackling the neuromorphic software integration problem, Intel and researchers from the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) demonstrated the operation of multiple cognitive functions running together on Loihi in IITs iCub robot platform. These included object recognition with fast, few-shot learning, spatial awareness from those learned objects and real-time decision-making in response to human interaction.

Whats Next: As the INRC grows, Intel will continue investing in this unique ecosystem and working with members to provide technology support and explore where neuromorphic computing can add real-world value for problems big and small. Additionally, Intel is continuing to take learnings from the INRC and incorporate them into the development of the companys next-generation neuromorphic research chip, which will be coming soon.

About the Intel Neuromorphic Research Community: The Intel Neuromorphic Research Community is an ecosystem of academic groups, government labs, research institutions and companies around the world working with Intel to further neuromorphic computing and develop innovative artificial intelligence applications. Researchers interested in participating in the INRC and developing for Loihi can visit the Intel Neuromorphic Research Community website. A list of current members can also be found at the site.

More Context: Intel Labs Day (Press Kit) | Neuromorphic Computing (Press Kit) | Intel Labs (Press Kit) | How Neuromorphic Computing Uses the Human Brain as a Model (Video)

About Intel

Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) is an industry leader, creating world-changing technology that enables global progress and enriches lives. Inspired by Moores Law, we continuously work to advance the design and manufacturing of semiconductors to help address our customers greatest challenges. By embedding intelligence in the cloud, network, edge and every kind of computing device, we unleash the potential of data to transform business and society for the better. To learn more about Intels innovations, go to newsroom.intel.com and intel.com.

Intel Corporation. Intel, the Intel logo and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

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Students are drawn into the ecosystem through real impact and relevant goals – not with Brainport-lingo – Innovation Origins

The Brainport region is an important growth engine of the Dutch economy. It is therefore very important, both for the region itself and for the country, to further strengthen this position. The fact that this not only increases the earning capacity but also makes it possible to tackle numerous societal challenges, makes that goal all the more relevant. In a series of 12 articles, Innovation Origins looks at the most striking issues within this endeavor. In this, we are guided by the research report Brainport at the top thatRabobankpublished in collaboration withStrategy Unit. Today, in the tenth articlein this series, in which we look at the accessibility of the ecosystem for students.

Innovation Space is the appropriate name for the concept (and building) in which students of the Eindhoven University of Technology and increasingly Fontys University of Applied Sciences are given the space to experiment with their innovative ideas. Based on the ideas around challenge-based learning, they work on projects that have a clear link with the major societal challenges of today. Instead of endless theoretical hardships, its all about really contributing to a better world, using your freshly acquired knowledge.

Innovation Space is the example (and at the same time still the opportunity) for this valuable connection between knowledge and society and therefore between students and the city. That there is still room for improvement is evident from the reactions of the participants in the Rabobank survey. Currently, students have little contact with the rest of Brainport, it appears. A number of students contact companies within the Brainport region on their own initiative, but this is only a small percentage and is not immediately region-specific. Brainport needs to become a clear concept among students so that they feel more connected to the Brainport region, is the advice.

And that applies especially to students who do not live or study within the Brainport region. Students at the Delft University of Technology, for example, usually have no idea what Brainport means and what the possibilities are in the region, according to an inventory. Sanne van Kouwen, herself an Innovation Sciences student at the TU/e, participated in the research on behalf of Rabobank. She came to the conclusion that both the city itself and the reputation of Brainport as an important ecosystem are rather lacking. The region really needs to become better known among pupils and students in the Netherlands. Brainport has so much to offer, really sad that this is so poorly visible. For a potential tech student from the Randstad, Eindhoven is barely in sight, although there would be every reason for it.

According to Van Kouwen, this is partly due to the story that needs to be told in a better way but partly also to external circumstances. Eindhoven is not seen as a characteristic city with facilities in the field of culture and nightlife that fit in with what a student is looking for. Its industrial character is outweighed by, for example, Delft. Even for students who are already in Eindhoven, the temptation of the Randstad is still great after graduation. Living at Strijp-S is beautiful, but hardly feasible. If it turns out that the really interesting companies are often located in Amsterdam or elsewhere in the Randstad, it will remain difficult to hold on to talents for Brainport.

Apart from the big players like Philips and ASML, there are not enough iconic companies within Brainport, according to the complaint of the students. There should be more variety in the type and range of companies, they say. Vincent Ruis, a specialist in start-ups and scale-ups for Rabobank, questions this. Indeed, appealing names like Mollie or Adyen are located in Amsterdam, but Amber and Sendcloud are well on their way to becoming at least as iconic.

Ruis suspects that Brainport wrongly suffers from an already outdated image. Many people still think that this is an area of the old-fashioned industry, but of course this is no longer the case. This ecosystem has a lot to offer students. Look at the knowledge institutes, the business community, the High Tech Campus, its all world-class: an ideal environment to grow your talents as a student or a graduate. But thats all insufficiently highlighted. There are promotional events, but I still feel that this is too old-school. If Brainport would be better able to show what kind of impact youre making on the world when youre working here, youd make students feel that way. And then you really achieve something.

According to Ruis, this means that youngsters should be in touch with this message long before they start studying. Moreover, think about it together with those young people. If you really want it to be about this group, involve them in your plans. So, no old-fashioned information meetings, but a hackathon, for example, of which you dont determine in advance what the result will be. Generation Z grew up with tech and social, so thats where their communication channels are. Make sure that not only the message but also the medium with which you communicate can connect credibly to their world of experience.

Such a hackathon as a means of connection also has the advantage that it is no longer about abstract concepts, adds Ruis. You make it concrete. A spokesperson who says that we are good at collaborating may sound nice, but it doesnt say anything. But if by actually working together, you can create something that could help the world move forward, then this would appeal directly to this generation.

The idea of the hackathon as a means of communication also appeals to Bert-Jan Woertman, known as a booster, connector, and builder within Eindhovens innovative ecosystem. From his positions at the university and in the business world, he has a good insight into the achievements of Brainport and what young people can achieve within it. Its all about giving students the feeling of being part of that great adventure. Just like that young soccer player who dreams of playing for Barcelona, we have to show technical students that playing in the Champions League of high tech is within reach. Hackathon-like events for teenagers already do exist in the city, by the way, Woertman says. Take the Maker Faire, or Night of the Nerds during Dutch Technology Week: these are the moments when children can get in touch with technology in a playful way.

These are also clear examples in which as Vincent Ruis also points out people think from the teenagers point of view and not on behalf of that teenager. Woertman: Young people have a completely different dictionary than we do. Terms like ecosystem, value chain, but also the word Brainport itself, they all mean very little to them. And as long as they dont know the lingo, they cant relate to it, its as simple as that. Once theyre inside, theyll be fine, but to get them here, you have to change your tactics.

What does appeal to young people, even if they dont use the term themselves, are the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. For them, its not about innovation as an activity, but about its impact. As a student or graduate, what problems can you help to solve? The fact that photonics is important, well, that is at best a theoretical statement. But the fact that you can use it to accelerate the energy transition is interesting. The complicated machines of ASML? Duh. But the fact that thanks to ASML, your smartphone, and your future smart car can function, appeals to them. And from there, its a much smaller step to those beautiful machines.

It is not for nothing that many of these iconic or near-iconic companies from Brainport have close ties with the Eindhoven University of Technology. Through TU/e Innovation Space, the guru network, challenge-based learning, the Eindhoven Engine, or the institutes, for example, they keep abreast of developments and start new collaborations. After all, nobody wants to miss the next big wave. Some of them even came directly from one of the student teams active there. Lightyear,DENS,TailorenSolid, for example, are all taking big steps in the real world. A proud Bert-Jan Woertman assures us that these will certainly not be the last examples. We see time and again that students who come into contact with companies through one of these initiatives will see and feel it immediately. They automatically become part of that large ecosystem, a source of talent and technology for the region. That way, you can be assured of a constant stream of impactful solutions to the major challenges of our time.

Read the other articles published so far in this 12-part series here.

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Students are drawn into the ecosystem through real impact and relevant goals - not with Brainport-lingo - Innovation Origins

The Greater Data Ecosystem: Driving Decision-Making | Data & Data Analytics – Supply Chain Digital – The Procurement & Supply Chain Platform

The phrase data is the new oil has found its way into just about every business presentation since it was first coined by Clive Humby back in 2006. The statement, although contestable (since not all data has the same octane content), does beg the question that should always follow: what data?

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt the majority of industries, its impact on supply chains has been nothing short of seismic. As teams face increasing pressure to make the right decisions at the right time, squeezing every last drop of insight and information out of your vast amounts of data has never been more important.

These tricky times call for a new approach to data-driven decision making, and theres now a real need for supply chains to focus on, what we call, the greater data ecosystem.

Yes, you can make effective decisions based on data from your current systems, or by joining up a few previously-siloed sources across your organisation but theres potential to go even further than this. The more data you have to play with, the more informed your supply chain decisions will be. Lets take a closer look at a few different data sources that Peak is exploring with our customers to drive intelligent supply chain decisions.

This is all about linking data from your own supply chain systems with your customers, as well as consumer behaviour data points (for those with direct-to-consumer channels.) For instance, this could be their ERP system or even the logistics systems between your business and your customer.

For example, suppose youre a consumer packaged goods business or a manufacturer, with a better handle on Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) and any other sell-out data from your customers systems. In that case, you can better predict what demand is going to be like, and better understand their stock levels in order to help you anticipate yours. You could even factor into account things like receipts data; what baskets are shoppers generally buying together, and how can this help you better anticipate how groups of products are going to sell together.

This closer relationship with your customers systems allows you to better serve them and increase efficiency and anticipate demand fluctuations. In short, its all about creating more competitive supply chains which are more cost-effective, with better service levels and a more accurate view of demand.

By leveraging data points from your suppliers systems, you can plan ahead in the most efficient way and execute an effective just-in-time (JIT) inventory management strategy, holding minimal assets to save cash and space whilst still fulfilling customer demand. Our customers who are employing this methodology are able to understand when a supplier is going to deliver, to what location, and anticipate the arrival of goods and raw materials whilst also better understanding working capital implications.

Dont underestimate the power hidden away in external, third-party data sources and the impact it can have on your supply chain decision making. Think about the ways your business can utilise, lets say, macroeconomic data to understand what could be driving issues connected to supply and demand. Yes, we immediately think of things like GDP, or maybe even exchange rates, but there is now a plethora of data out there, that may be more industry and company-specific, that helps predict demand or implications for business performance. For instance, a sad but apposite data feed could be the level of COVID-19 near a supplier, which may hamper their ability to supply. Potentially, AI and machine learning could help understand the impact of these incidents with supply performance.

If companies begin to institute data sharing in their supply chains at the same time, they will be in a much better position to deal with a future shock.World Economic Forum

This one may seem a little more blue sky for many businesses at first, but the benefits can be enormous if you can imagine not just working closely with your retailers, but also with competitors and those providing similar products allowing you to gain a unique view of exactly what is happening across the rest of the market. This leads to a better understanding of wider trends and the ability to make better smarter decisions. With a mutually beneficial relationship with the wider network, you can understand supply issues, and work with competitors or neutral parties to deliver better products and services to your customers creating a form of coopetition.

Tapping into the greater data ecosystem and utilising it in your decision making offers an untold number of benefits for supply chain teams. However, to truly unlock this potential, a new approach and a modern architecture is needed.

In the same way that business functions have their own systems of record, the ability to power decision making based on a wide range of data sources hinges on the introduction of a new, centralised enterprise business system. For Peak, this is our AI System, which gives teams the ability to leverage unlimited data points at scale and speed.

With artificial intelligence (AI), were able to connect the dots between data points and prescribe recommendations and actions to help you optimise your decision making across the entire supply chain.

For instance, by feeding external data into both demand and supply planning systems and leveraging it with AI, you can optimise that connection between these two core areas of your business. Not only does it allow you to better sense demand with a higher degree of accuracy, but also enables a better understanding of how supplier and operations constraints are affecting supply automatically making micro-adjustments to optimise the way demand is being fulfilled.

Get in touch to find out more about the impact AI-powered decision making and the potential access to the greater data ecosystem carries for your supply chain.

Sign up to our upcoming webinar alongside AWS to learn how to accelerate your D2C strategy.

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The Greater Data Ecosystem: Driving Decision-Making | Data & Data Analytics - Supply Chain Digital - The Procurement & Supply Chain Platform

How KubeLinter fits in the CNCF Ecosystem – Security Boulevard

The State of Kubernetes Security in 2020

There has been a significant shift in the Kubernetes community to security topics in the past year. According to the StackRox State of Container and Kubernetes Security Report, Fall 2020, human error causes most security incidents in Kubernetes, with misconfigurations contributing to roughly 67% of cases reported by survey respondents. At KubeCon and Cloud-Native Con North America, Kubernetes security topics made up the largest percentage of overall sessions this year. The CNCF survey report in 2019 highlights security, cultural, and complexity challenges as the most significant issues facing Kubernetes adoption. It would seem that the community is looking for reasonable solutions to their Kubernetes security concerns.

StackRox took note of these issues early on in the development of our Kubernetes-native security platform. By recognizing that people and security go hand in hand, we created a platform that enables security and engineering teams to protect Kubernetes clusters. The usual implementation question remains: where do we implement security and configuration fixes? There has been a significant push to perform security checks as early as possible. The term shift left is often used to describe this movement of empowering developers to implement security controls and checks. However, this does not solve the issue of complexity and cultural challenges. With shift-left, we require our developers to understand the application, Kubernetes, security considerations, and more. This overhead cuts against the goal of using cloud-native technologies to empower developers to release software more quickly.

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KubeLinter is an open-source static analysis tool to identify misconfigurations in Kubernetes objects. KubeLinter offers the ability to integrate security checks of Kubernetes YAML files and Helm charts before deployment into a Kubernetes cluster. The security checks validate that a Kubernetes cluster configuration follows security best practices. With standard built-in checks, developers and teams can get immediate feedback about misconfigurations and violations of Kubernetes policies. This enhances developer productivity, integrating security-as-code with DevOps and DevSecOps processes while ensuring the automatic enforcement of hardened security policies for Kubernetes applications.

KubeLinter analyzes YAML files and Helm charts and runs Kubernetes-native security checks to identify elevated access, misconfigurations, and general best practice violations. KubeLinter is a Go-based binary used on the command line or part of a CI pipeline and gives developers the necessary security checks before allowing any Kubernetes configuration changes. There are currently 19 security checks that come built into the CLI. Some examples include:

KubeLinters defaults are security-centric, so users will have to explicitly opt in to configure Kubernetes in an insecure manner. The built-in checks provided by KubeLinter can be extended to include custom checks for many Kubernetes configuration parameters. Individual checks can be enabled or disabled as well, with annotations giving the ability to pass single specific configuration checks. As an open-source tool available under the Apache 2.0 license, users can also contribute to the project by extending KubeLinter with additional checks.

KubeLinters focus on being a Kubernetes-native tool leads to the following advantages:

KubeLinter go-based CLI architecture allows it to be easily installed in existing pipelines or used on the command-line. It uses a similar package and CLI architecture as kubectl, leading to little knowledge required to test and use it. KubeLinter policies can be enabled or disabled, and the checks can be ignored with annotations. KubeLinter gives immediate feedback about how to rectify a misconfiguration or security issue. This approach to security means reasonable checks with little to no workflow changes. KubeLinter means declarative security and Kubernetes-focused security rules that can be easily accessed and viewed.

KubeLinters success will rely on the community. As Kubernetes continues to grow, StackRox views KubeLinter as a security enablement tool that simplifies security and makes the day-to-day usage of Kubernetes by community end users safer and more secure.

Watch the lead developer Viswa Venugopal talk about KubeLinter basics

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How KubeLinter fits in the CNCF Ecosystem - Security Boulevard

Report finds the CSS ecosystem is going through a renewal with new features – SDTimes.com

CSS users have a lot to reconsider when it comes to the changes this year, according to the recently released State of CSS 2020 report. The report found that CSS has seen a surge of new features over the last couple of years.

Forget everything you know about CSS. Or at least, be ready to reconsider a lot of it. If like me youve been writing CSS for over a decade, CSS in 2020 looks nothing like what you were used to, the team behind the State of CSS 2020 wrote in its findings.

For instance, users can now leverage CSS Grid to make dynamic, responsive layouts that adapt to any viewport size with fewer lines of code.

Instead of relying on global stylesheets, CSS-in-JS lets users collocate styles with components to build themeable design systems.

Tailwind CSS has burst onto the scene and, through its use of utility-first CSS, forced us to reconsider the traditional dogma of semantic class names, the team wrote. The CSS ecosystem is going through a renewal of sorts, as older mainstays like Bootstrap now have to accomodate newer entrants like Tailwind CSS. To say nothing of the whole CSS-in-JS movement which, while it has yet to cross over to the CSS mainstream, is nonetheless quite dynamic.

The features with the closest ratio of users knowing about it and actually using it went to @font face and Line Breaking Properties on the typography front. Other highly used features include FlexBox, Transitions, Transforms, Animations, and calc().

Meanwhile the features with the lowest usage ration include color-gamut, CSS Houdini, Contain, and Subgrid.

The survey found that the majority of respondents knew between 50-70% of the features mentioned in the survey. According to the team, youd expect adoption is lagging a bit behind as the community takes its time to absorb new properties.

CSS Grid Layout, which excels at dividing a page into major regions or defining the relationship in terms of size, position, and layer, between parts of a control built from HTML primitives saw a large jump in usage from 54.7% last year to 73.3% this year.

Also, CSS Flexible Box Layout, which is a module of CSS that defines a CSS box model optimized for user interface design, and the layout of items in one dimension inched up 3% from last year and landed at 97.5% of respondents using it.

The technologies that saw large usage and a high satisfaction percentage included PostCSS, Sass, Styled Components, and BEM. The infrequently used and poorly rated technologies included Radium, Foundation, Fela, and Styletron.

Chrome was the most widely used browser for testing, followed by Firefox and Safari.

Each of the many tools, methodologies, frameworks, and libraries featured here has its place in the vast front-end ecosystem. Building a complex React app? Styled Components is a great option. Designing a static landing page? You cant go wrong with Sass! And even though Bootstrap has lost some of its original hype factor, you cant beat it when it comes to sheer number of themes and plugins, the CSS 2020 team wrote. So while we keep an eye on the shiny new toys popping up on GitHub every week, lets not forget the tools, techniques, and most of all people who have carried the CSS torch up to now.

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Report finds the CSS ecosystem is going through a renewal with new features - SDTimes.com

The infrastructure of Kick Ecosystem – hackernoon.com

We launched KickICO in 2017 to create a safer means of raising capital for enterprises in the blockchain sector, and to open that safer new channel to a community of investors.

In its first two years, the KickICO platform had played a key role in helping over 35 startups to raise 800,000 ETH.

However, ICOs have vanished and IEOs have been labeled as scam right in the beginning since its non-transparent realization that various exchanges have implemented and did not make it fair and transparent like was described in our White Paper.

Anticipating this back in 2017, and clearly understanding that the ICOs that were done in such way will soon die out, we began to build not just another platform for fundraising, but a large ecosystem in which fundraising is just one core element of our broader vision for a new financial paradigm driven by mainstream use of digital assets.

The primary services and pioneering concepts at the heart ofKick Ecosystemcame about through necessity. The Initial Coin Offering model was broken, creating opportunities for rogue developers and providing zero transparency or protection for consumers.

We found no exchange using a better model, and so we created our own; The initial exchange offering (IEO) and auction-based initial coin offering (AIO). It was not just the sale models that needed fixing, but exchanges too. Many were using ICO and IEOs for their own benefit, to the detriment of all other market participants, so we decided to launch our own exchange,KickEX, which could lead the way in open, trustworthy token finance.

In developing the exchange infrastructure, it became obvious that many services could be developed for enterprise use or harnessed by other projects.KickID, for example, is used in WHIRL, and our subsidiary blockchain-powered crowdfunding platform is used for private individuals, not companies.

Until now, the fintech sector has consisted of myriad apps scattered across the cryptoverse, defined more by their poor user journeys and barriers to entry than their innovation and traction. There has been no single entry point into the world of fintech, which helps to explain the gap between rapid technological progress and adoption. No single platform exists that brings together every service that individuals and businesses need, that anyone can use. That is the Kick Ecosystem vision. Every service, made for all: Beginners, professionals, and everyone in between.

We believe a one-stop hub for cryptocurrency services will be the driving force in mainstream adoption, but also that individual products and services can be useful to traditional enterprises without dependency on mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies.

Using Kick Ecosystem as the foundation, we are releasing autonomous global services that allow for interoperability to create an ambitious financial services network that far exceeds any current model.

By harnessing critical elements from P2P, B2B, and SaaS technologies, were able to design and implement a range of autonomous services that can function both independently and in synergy with each other as part of the ecosystem.

With unparalleled usability and integration at their core, our services can be applied to a virtually limitless range of commercial applications in non-crypto projects, from gaming to e-commerce and retail.

Every element within the Kick Ecosystem performs an important role in the exponential growth of users and partners.

KickEX is the primary entry point for new users including traders, investors and miners. Users are then able to access the fundraising platform and to other services and back. All services are linked to KickID the unified ID services, a B2B solution, which is offered to external business, that will become a part of our ecosystem.

KickID andKickWalletare the core tools which enable users to seamlessly navigate the network of products and services, while KickRef gives them a role in the organic scaling of our user base.

For commercial partners, the advantages and synergies of operating within the Kick Ecosystem are obvious. Businesses can transform their bottom lines, access a qualified consumer base and bring the benefits of Kick to their existing database of users.

Reliable implementation and the development of standards will be key to the success of Kick.

Each service is developed by a separate team with a single protocol, standards and API. Services are modular in design, with the ability to function as a stand-alone product and as part of the wider ecosystem. All Kick services are compatible with cryptocurrencies and digital assets, although they can be configured to operate with or without them.

Thanks to a single standard of communication between services and IPAs, the ecosystem can be easily expanded with other services that do not yet exist.

From the very beginning of exchange development, security and decentralization of user funds have been key priorities for us. We employ CISCO next-generation hardware firewalls, DELL server hardware stacks, geographically distributed data centers and cloud hosting services based on private networks with the latest generation of encryption.

We also use the most advanced and modern data access algorithms, and third-party detection and prevention mechanisms with updated real-time signatures of new types and methods of attack.

Security is further enhanced with proprietary, provider-level mitigation services for DDoS attacks, automatic start-of-the-attack protection mode if suspicious activity is detected and Trusted Platform Module systems that protect against physical access to servers.

These and many other security measures and technologies allow us to guarantee the clear and uninterrupted operation of all services and the safety of user funds.

Our fundamental strategy for the expansion of Kick Ecosystem is to design tools and services that solve the challenges we face ourselves. Thats how KickID andKickRefwere born.

That strategic vision flows through everything we do, from high-level roadmaps to each service and mechanic. This is the reason that the entire architecture of the Kik Ecosystem is built using a microservices model. Each service can function independently, which increases fault tolerance a problem in one part of the system does not affect other services and the chance to operate each service as a stand-alone project.

Our team mirrors our technology, with a large group of developers divided into smaller teams responsible for each product. Microservices communicate with each other through a common, unified communication protocol that allows us to make B2C products such as KickEX exchange and then evolve them for enterprise use.

Our strategy can be seen in the creation and evolution of the KickID and KickRef services. First, we created them for ourselves, debugged, optimized, and further understood what features were necessary for success. Now we are transforming these services into B2B products suitable for third-party use.

The evolution of microservices into independent B2B products expands the entire Kick Ecosystem exponentially. Each new user who registers via KickID or KickEX becomes part of our ecosystem, with the opportunity to utilise and easily switch between any services. Having registered and verified once, each users journey through the ecosystem will be seamless.

Our strategy is based on synergy, the snowball effect, and business virality. By implementing new parts of the ecosystem, new services, which will then be distributed by other companies, projects and businesses, we believe our technology and values can transform any sector for the good of every enterprise and its end users.

Each new member of the ecosystem will enjoy all the benefits that were created by members that came before them and create value for the community they join. Using these principles of leverage and synergy to drive our exponential growth strategy, we are creating right now, the connected digital world of tomorrow.

KickIDis an end-to-end authorization and authentication service that connects all of our services and enables full access to the Kick Ecosystem through registration and universal KYC verification. As well as being an essential component of Kick Ecosystem, KickID is also the perfect tool for businesses seeking access to a single database of users already registered in the ecosystem, or who need an effective stand-alone solution for registering and verifying their users.

KickID was designed to slash the cost of KYC by requiring users to be verified only once. As the ecosystem grows and more users install KickID, KYC overheads decrease further. Over time, that cost will drop to virtually zero, saving businesses who operate on Kick millions of dollars.

By removing the need for new customers to complete verification more than once, KickID optimises consumer user journeys and has the potential to dramatically increase conversion rates for all third-party businesses that have integrated KickID for themselves.

Access to a pool of active accredited consumers gives business not only a valuable new acquisition channel but also enables them to develop more competitive offers and reward programmes. Businesses who use KickID can also reduce or eliminate the time and cost involved in processing data, payments and verification while ensuring they meet all compliance obligations for their jurisdiction.

KickRefis a zero-cost multi-level marketing solution that can be used to drive quality traffic to almost any online product or service. In just 6 months and with no marketing budget, KickRef has proven its effectiveness by acquiring 1 million users with a genuine interest in KickEX.

KickRef uses a 10-level referral model that any online business can harness to create viral growth with minimal cost, effort, or risk.

By distributing a part of the companys profits proportionally throughout a users network of referrals, the KickRef model is perfectly suited to businesses such as online games, gambling, and e-commerce. Just as KickID is able to improve registration and conversion rates, KickRef can increase traffic, create an instant user base, improve average customer value and reduce churn.

Like every proven Kick product that is tested and optimised within our own Ecosystem first, KickRef can be customized to specific business requirements. Rewards can be configured to suit specific business models and audiences using real money, game points, bonuses, and other virtual items.

Affiliate programmes should be simple, quick, and effective tools for its user-evangelists. With built-in tools such as leagues, ratings, statistics, and messengers, KickRef is a powerful enterprise affiliate solution for promotion and growth.

TheKickEXdigital asset exchange is the core feature of Kick Ecosystem. With pioneering trading functionality, enhanced security, and innovative reward mechanisms, we are certain that believe our exchange can become the gold standard for cryptocurrency exchanges.

Most cryptocurrency exchanges suffer from a limited selection of order types: market order, limit order, and simple stop-order. As a result, traders have to use various third-party services and software to implement their strategies. KickEX smart orders such as trailing or double stops, chain orders, and others, allow users to automate their trading and maximise profits. These features also allow novices to trade professionally without the need to buy and master additional software tools, reducing the skill gap between beginners and professional traders.

Three years after the first initial coin offerings rewrote the rules of fundraising, token sales are still the primary means of fundraising for blockchain projects. But not all ICO platforms are equal. KickICO is a fundraising platform underpinned by a ready-made audience engaged by social features.

From the technology we use to the features weve provided and messaging across every, KickICO reflects the wider values of Kick Ecosystem. With such a high profile history of fraud and unethical behavior, its critical that fundraising is open, transparent, fair, and safe.

Launching a fundraising campaign is just the first step for blockchain projects. We empower projects to exceed their campaign goals with a complete toolkit which includes automated advertising capabilities to maximise reach with minimal effort.

KickICO has remained at the forefront of crypto fundraising with a pioneering Auction Initial Offering (AIO) fundraising model invented by the Kick team. Projects will soon have access to a new Security Token Offerings (STO) model too.

Campaigns launched via KickICO have greater potential thanks to integrations with KickEX exchange and other Kick services such as KickID. By allowing projects to conduct multi-platform token sales through KickICO, KickEX, and their own channels using a simple, secure widget, Kick Ecosystem offers blockchain projects the best possible chance of success.

We recognise that social fundraising is an increasingly important means of attracting investment and generating early demand for innovative technology. As a result, KickICO comes pre-loaded with widgets for forums, websites, and blogs, as well as integrations with KickRed referral marketing features which allow users to earn money by attracting backers to fundraising campaigns.

By connecting KickICO with KickEX and KickRef, we supply projects with an organic, free flow of verified users with a confirmed interest in emerging technologies that only the most expensive PR campaigns could achieve.

Together, the Kick Ecosystem tools make KickICO the most powerful, one-stop fundraising and marketing platform in crypto.

KickMessengeris an instant communication tool created for use with KickRef as well as, but now available for a wide range of B2B use cases.

Unlike other messenger applications that facilitate anonymity, KickMessenger requires users to be verified, although communications and content remain secure and private.

By integrating KickMessenger with the Kick Ecosystem, fraudulent or spam users can be identified and blocked throughout the network with a single click, reducing the impact and cost of criminal or unethical behavior.

We believe transparency and accountability are crucial to the long term success of Kick services and are also fundamental requirements for enterprise use. Unlike most messenger applications where illegal behavior is allowed by platform owners to flourish, KickMessenger does not support anonymity and ensures that users who breach the law or platform terms will be held accountable for their actions.

We made KikMessenger both for ourselves and for all projects who require a simple and easy-to-integrate messenger. Although originally designed for Kick Ecosystem users, we will release a stand-alone version of KickMessenger software which can be easily integrated with external B2C and B2B platforms.

KickWalletis our native solution which allows users to conveniently and safely store, send and spend their funds.

Users can easily store a range of digital assets, manage their portfolio, deposit, convert, and withdraw. The KickWallet roadmap includes support for credit and debit cards, and once released, gives users a single payment gateway for all businesses within the ecosystem, and enables businesses to quickly integrate a wallet solution into their applications.

Currently, KickWallet is a B2C service within the KickEX exchange, and fully functions as a custodian service. For B2B use, we are combining the technology behind KickWallet andKickMobile to offer a portfolio of funds and tokens, deposit and withdrawal of fiat funds, and simple and quick conversion of fiat and cryptocurrencies.

Depending on demand, we may also introduce a physical payment card linked to KickWallet.

KickAcquire is a planned crypto-enabled payment gateway for personal and enterprise use which allows users to deposit to, transact with and withdraw funds from cryptocurrency projects.

For crypto projects that cannot access traditional banking services, KickAcquire will give them the ability to accept payments and guarantee secure custody of funds.

Thanks to one-click integration with products and services as well as simple widgets, merchants can accept cryptocurrencies without the usual hassle or risk involved in creating their own infrastructures.

As with all Kick Ecosystem services, KickAcquire will also leverage the power of KickID to increase conversion, as many users will already be verified.

KickAcquire will be a B2B solution for enterprise use.

KickCPA is more than just a dedicated digital advertising tool for the cryptocurrency sector. As a means of reaching bigger audiences and rewarding acquisition in an honest and transparent way, KickCPA is a blessing for everyone in the cryptosphere.

Existing ad networks do not serve the needs of blockchain organisations and particularly fundraising projects. For crypto projects looking for initial investment, acquiring investors through digital marketing has become prohibitively expensive. And with some of the biggest ad networks, crypto marketing may not be possible at all.

Advertisers often end up paying for vanity metrics such as clicks and views and are at higher risk of fraud.

KickCPA solves these problems by enabling projects to raise funds through KickICO and pay only when leads convert from a visit to investment.

KickCPA also enables publishers, bloggers, and individuals with an online audience to generate revenue by serving ads that drive meaningful traffic to KickICO campaigns and result in backing.

Once it has proven its worth on KickICO, the technology behind KickCPA will be extended beyond KickICO fundraising to provide an independent advertising network that third-party businesses

We believe in empowering our users with both effective products and vital knowledge.KickAcademyis an online learning centre which covers all aspects of cryptocurrencies and trading. With tools such as our unique trailing stop constructor, inexperienced traders can accelerate their learning curve, understand how markets function and how to place orders without risking their own funds.

Our institute also publishes comprehensive and exclusive data about the latest academic research in the crypto markets, investments, exchanges, and fintech fields:

One in Two Crypto Users is a Referral ProgramStudy of the crypto community opinion and level of trust in stablecoinsResearch on the usage of orders on crypto-exchangesWhat is KYC and why the global crypto community needs user identification?

There are also educational articles for beginners and professional crypto traders to learn the basics oftechnicalandfundamental analysis, trading strategies,risk management,indicators, and other crypto trading professional tools. All the materials are available on the official academy website for free.

The studies made by KickAcademy team are being regularly published in top crypto media like DeCenter, Hackernoon, Coinspeaker.

After being credited to the clients exchange wallet, the cryptocurrency is transferred to the Mosaic Wallet to ensure reliable storage and eliminate the risk of cryptocurrency theft from the clients cryptocurrency wallet.

In Mosaic Wallet, cryptocurrency during its life-time is not stored in the same cryptocurrency wallet but moves between different cryptocurrency wallets at a certain frequency. At the same time, Mosaic Wallets, on which the cryptocurrency was already stored, do not participate in the further stages of the cryptocurrency life-cycle. The frequency of movement of cryptocurrency between Mosaic Wallets is set in the system settings. This approach can significantly reduce the risks of theft of clients money from the Mosaic Wallet cryptocurrency wallets.

In addition, various types of cryptocurrency wallets are installed within the Mosaic Wallet, depending on the maximum amount of cryptocurrency allowed to be stored in this wallet.

Thus, the risk is divided into different areas, such as R1, R2, R3. For example, the R1 wallet does not allow storing cryptocurrency in the equivalent of more than 100 USDT, the R2 wallet does not allow storing cryptocurrency in the equivalent of more than 1000 USDT, and the R3 wallet does not allow storing cryptocurrency in the equivalent of more than 10000 USDT. In case of the compromise of private keys for one of the wallets, the risk does not apply to the other wallets.

The cryptocurrency is stored on Mosaic Wallet until a command is received from the client to withdraw the cryptocurrency asset to an external wallet that does not belong to the exchange.

Mosaic Wallet private keys are not stored on electronic storage devices. When creating a private key, several responsible persons of the company receive one character string each, which is the basis for obtaining a private key. Thus, one employee of the company cannot single-handedly access the Mosaic Wallet cryptocurrency wallets. To gain access to the Mosaic Wallet cryptocurrency wallets, all responsible persons of the company must simultaneously enter all the strings of characters transferred to them for storage. This approach minimizes the risks of internal fraud and collusion of company employees.

To minimize operational risks associated with the unavailability of company employees and/or the loss of character strings handed over to them for storage the company introduces the roles of deputy responsible persons and duplicates of character strings required to obtain Mosaic Wallet private keys are stored in the safe deposit boxes or other secure offline data vaults.

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The infrastructure of Kick Ecosystem - hackernoon.com

This is the size of undisturbed ecosystems lost in 13 years – World Economic Forum

Between 2000 and 2013, Earth lost an area of undisturbed ecosystems roughly the size of Mexico.

That's the mind-melting finding of a new study published in One Earth and the researchers say it has "profound implications" for global biodiversity and for humans who rely on natural resources.

"We were expecting there to be high levels of intact ecosystem and wilderness loss, but the results were shocking," lead researcher Brooke Williams of the University of Queensland told The Guardian. "We found substantial area of intact ecosystems had been lost in just 13 years nearly two million square kilometres which is terrifying to think about. Our findings show that human pressure is extending ever further into the last ecologically intact and wilderness areas."

In total, the researchers found that 1.9 million square kilometers (approximately 700,000 square miles) of previously intact ecosystem area had been "highly modified" during the study period. They also found that 58.4 percent of Earth's land ecosystems were under "moderate or intense" pressure from human activity, while only 41.6 percent of ecosystems were intact and 25 percent were true wilderness.

The 1.9 million square kilometers lost were mostly tropical and subtropical grasslands in Asia, South America and Africa, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), which participated in the research. The rainforests of Southeast Asia also suffered significant human encroachments.

The 1.9 million square kilometers lost were in Asia, South America and Africa.

Image: One Earth

To achieve these results, an international team of 17 scientists from six countries used satellite imagery to assess the human footprint on land-based ecosystems and how it had changed between 2000 and 2013, The Guardian explained. The researchers found that human pressure increased on nearly 20 percent of the globe and decreased on only around six percent.

"Data does not lie," senior author James Watson from WCS and the University of Queensland said in the WCS press release. "Humanity keeps on shrinking the amount of land that other species need to survive. In a time of rapid climate change, we need to proactively secure the last intact ecosystems on the planet, as these are critical in the fight to stop extinction and halt climate change."

The study comes amidst other dire news for wildlife and biodiversity. A UN study released last week found that world governments had failed to achieve any of the 20 targets they had set for preserving biodiversity by 2020. Another study published this month found that wildlife populations had plummeted 68 percent on average over the last 50 years.

Williams explained to WCS why the loss of intact ecosystems is such a big deal for humans and other animals.

"Intact lands are relied on by biodiversity for habitat, and by people for ecosystem services such as climate regulation and clean water," Williams said. "We continue to take these last functioning places for granted, and our results show urgent action is needed to protect those lands that do remain intact."

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This is the size of undisturbed ecosystems lost in 13 years - World Economic Forum

Humans Destroyed Intact Ecosystem Land the Size of Mexico in Just 13 Years – EcoWatch

Where would you go if, say, a flood devastated the city you live in? Millions of people around the world have been forced to answer this question. In 2017, 68.5 million people were displaced more than at any point in human history, according to the Brookings Institute. More than one-third of those were uprooted by sudden weather events, including floods, forest fires and intense storms. A 2018 report from the World Bank, which focused on three regions Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Latin America found that without tangible climate action, more than 143 million people in just these three areas will be forced to move to escape the impacts of climate change by 2050.

But more than 1 billion people worldwide will live in countries with insufficient infrastructure to withstand climate change by 2050. The Pacific Islands are expected to be affected especially hard. Sea level there is already rising at almost 0.5 inches per year. Eight islands have already been submerged and two more are close to vanishing. By the year 2100, experts fear 48 more islands in the Pacific will be completely underwater.

So what about the people who live there? What do we call these people who will be displaced? It's actually complicated. It's difficult to determine what category these migrants should fall under because no global definition exists. Why does that matter? Without a standard method of classification, there's no way to track how many people are affected or displaced by an environmental or climate event. So the most commonly used term is "environmental refugee."

Experts credit the term and its definition to UN Environment Program (UNEP) researcher Essam El-Hinnawi, who in 1985 wrote the United Nations report titled "Environmental Refugees." El-Hinnawi defined environmental refugees as:

... those people who have been forced to leave their traditional habitat, temporarily or permanently, because of a marked environmental disruption (natural and/or triggered by people) that jeopardized their existence and/or seriously affected the quality of their life.

This working definition has been the baseline for current debate.

But according to the 1951 Geneva Refugee Convention, a refugee "is someone who is unable or unwilling to return to their country of origin owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion" [source: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees]. Environmental refugees do not legally fall under this status.

Why environmental refugees flee their homes is a complicated mixture of environmental degradation and desperate socioeconomic conditions. People leave their homes when their livelihoods and safety are jeopardized. What effects of climate change put them in jeopardy? Climate change triggers, among other problems, desertification and drought, deforestation, land degradation, rising sea levels, floods, more frequent and more extreme storms, earthquakes, volcanoes, food insecurity and famine.

The September 2020 Ecological Threat Register Report, by the Institute for Economics & Peace, predicts the hardest hit populations will be:

  • Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, the Middle East and North Africa
  • Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Chad, India and Pakistan (which are among the world's least peaceful countries)
  • Pakistan, Ethiopia and Iran are most at risk for mass displacements
  • Haiti faces the highest risk of all countries in Central America and the Caribbean
  • India and China will be among countries experiencing high or extreme water stress

The report also suggests that developed countries like the United States and regions like Europe are not immune. "The European refugee crisis in the wake of wars in Syria and Iraq in 2015 saw 2 million people flee to Europe and highlights the link between rapid population shifts with political turbulence and social unrest." Developed countries including Sweden, Norway, Ireland face little to no threat, the report found.

Climate change does not impact all people and all parts of the world in the same way. While floods ravage some areas, deserts are spreading in others. Desertification and depleted resources, including shortages of water and fertile land, are long-term consequences of climate change. But one of the biggest threats will be food insecurity.

"Ecological threats and climate change pose serious challenges to global peacefulness," Steve Killelea, founder and executive chairman of the Institute for Economics and Peace said in the in the 2020 Ecological Threat Report. "Over the next 30 years, lack of access to food and water will only increase without urgent global cooperation. In the absence of action civil unrest, riots and conflict will most likely increase. COVID-19 is already exposing gaps in the global food chain."

The report suggests global demand for food will increase by 50 percent by 2050. That means if there's no increase in food supply, many people could starve or be forced to flee in search of food. Currently, more than 2 billion people around the world are already food insecure.

When faced with the decision to flee, most people want to stay in their own country or region. Leaving a country requires money and could mean leaving behind family; simply relocating from a rural to urban area in search of work and resources may be easier. Plus, the chance to return and resettle back home is unlikely if a family leaves their country entirely. In instances when an area is temporarily inhabitable, like after a destructive hurricane, returning home may be an option. But when coastlines or entire islands are underwater, the possibility of going home is out of the question.

The future impacts of climate change will disproportionately affect the world's poorest but will also pressure countries around the globe through mass migration of refugees. Adaptation and resilience will be the key to reducing displacement risk both temporary and permanent in the forms of early warning systems and flood-defense infrastructure, sustainable agriculture and drought-resistant crops, as well as other protections.

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Humans Destroyed Intact Ecosystem Land the Size of Mexico in Just 13 Years - EcoWatch