Three things to know: Climate change’s impact on extreme-weather events

on 23/10/2023

In an article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Michael Mann, professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science in the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Arts & Sciences, and colleagues from Clemson University, the University of California Los Angeles, and Columbia University investigate the effects of climate change on exacerbating compounding heat and drought situations.
Their findings offer new insights into predicting their interplay, which will provide scientists and policymakers with a clearer and more holistic approach to preventing and preparing for extreme-weather events.
“We wanted to see how the state-of-the-art climate models used in the most recent assessment reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change address the episodes of heat waves and droughts that have given rise to some of the worst wildfires we’ve witnessed in recent history,” Mann says.
“We also wanted to get a better understanding of how often these events were occurring, their typical durations, and their intensity to improve not only our forecasting but approaches to mitigating further damage to human life.”
Compound drought and heat wave events and their effects
The researchers document the deleterious effects of increasingly severe droughts and wildfires occurring in the past three years.
“Two standout events,” Mann says, “were the 2020 California wildfires and the 2019-20 Australian bush fire season, which lasted nearly one whole year and came to be known as the Black Summer. These are known as compound drought and heat wave (CDHW) events and refer to situations wherein a region experiences both prolonged hot temperatures and a shortage of water.”
These conditions can occur together and worsen each other’s impacts, the researchers say, and could potentially lead to heat-related illnesses and deaths, water scarcity for drinking and agriculture, reduced crop yields, increased wildfire risk, and ecological stress. They also note that anthropogenic climate change — climate change that is driven by human activity — can contribute to the frequency and severity of these events.
Projected impact of a worst-case versus moderate-case scenario
The researchers compared two contrasting socioeconomic pathways: the high-end or worst-case scenario, wherein society fails to mitigate the effects of anthropogenic climate change, and a moderate scenario, wherein some conservative measures are put in place and efforts are made to abide by them.
In the worst-case scenario, they found that by the late 21st century approximately 20% of global land areas are expected to witness approximately two CDHW events per year. These events could last for around 25 days and a fourfold increase in severity.
“Comparatively, the average CDHW frequency over the recent observed reference period was approximately 1.2 events per year, lasting less than 10 days, with far less severity,” Mann says.
The most vulnerable geographical regions, such as eastern North America, southeastern South America, Central Europe, East Africa, Central Asia, and northern Australia, are projected to experience the largest increases in CDHW frequency by the end of the 21st century.
“Interestingly, places like Philadelphia and some of the regions in the eastern U.S. are where we expect to see an increase in these sorts of events; urban environments in the summertime will witness the highest relative frequency of these events,” Mann says.
Critical need for proactive measures
The researchers emphasize the profound threat posed by more frequent and intense CDHW events in the coming decades and the dependence the emissions pathway chosen has on the severity of these events.
As climate change continues to unfold, addressing the escalating risks associated with CDHW events becomes crucial. This study contributes to the growing understanding of the projected changes in CDHWs and highlights the need for proactive measures, including emission reductions and adaptation strategies, to build resilience and safeguard vulnerable regions from the impacts of compound drought and heat wave events.
“Our findings provide important scientific context for the record heat and wildfire that we’re witnessing right now here in the United States,” Mann says.
“They underscore that we need to get off fossil fuels as quickly as possible to prevent a worsening of these dangerous combinations of heat and drought.”

Flood Protection Sector project among others get nod

on 23/10/2023

The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) approved various development projects costing billions of rupees with Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar in the chair.
The ECNEC considered and approved a project of the Ministry of Water Resources titled “Umbrella PC-I of the Flood Protection Sector Project-III (FPSP-II)” at the updated cost of Rs194,625.00 million including FEC of Rs10,862.94 million.
The project is to be executed in all four provinces and GB and AJK as well. The project is to be financed through federal components, provincial components, and donor financing. The main object of the project is the improvement of country-wide comprehensive flood management approaches on an integrated and innovative basis by the implementation of structural as well as non-structural interventions.
The ECNEC also considered and approved another project of the Ministry of Water Resources to be executed by the Irrigation Department Govt of Sindh titled “Makhi Farash Link Canal Project (Chotiari Phase-II)” for water supply to Thar coal in districts Sanghar and Umerkot at the raised cost of Rs. 12,087.489 million. The project has been prepared to carry 200 cusecs of canal water for electricity generation and agro-industrial growth.
Another project of the Ministry of Water Resources titled “Kachhi Canal Project Restoration of Flood Damages 2022” was also considered and approved by the ECNEC with the cost of Rs. 8280.647 million to be executed in Punjab Districts of Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, and Rajanpur by Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA). The project is related to the issue of water scarcity & protection of infrastructure from the onslaught of floods.
The ECNEC also considered and discussed a project of the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa titled “New Balakot City Development Project” and directed the concerned stakeholders i-e KP govt, Ministry of Planning and Development, and ERRA to re-examine and remove technical and financial discrepancies in the project.
The ECNEC further considered and approved a project titled “National Multi-sectoral Nutrition Program to Reduce Stunting and other forms of Malnutrition” to be executed in 36 high-burden districts of the country. The project is to be financed by the federal government and through foreign aid under IsDB Country Engagement Framework for Pakistan 2023-25. The overall goal of the project is to significantly reduce malnutrition-induced stunting in Pakistani children in the next three years.
The ECNEC considered and approved the project titled “Extension/Construction of 36km Sindh Coastal Highway” for Rs. 16,204.303 million. The project is to be executed by the government of Sindh. The project is to be funded through the federal PSDP.
The ECNEC also considered and approved a project of the Ministry of Communications titled “Construction f Lahore Sialkot Motorway (LSM) link Highway (04-Lane) connecting LSM to Narang Mandi and Narowal (73-kilometer approximately)” at the revised rationalized cost of Rs. 36,814.347 million without FEC on 50:50 cost-sharing basis by the federal and provincial governments.
The project is to be executed in districts Narowal and Sheikhupura, Punjab province by National Highway Authority (NHA).
A project of the Government of Sindh titled Improvement of Road from Sanghar to National Highway (N-5), at Point Rohri via Mundh Jamrao and Salehput (221-kilometer)” was considered and approved at the updated rationalized cost of Rs. 12,521.799 million without FEC on 50:50 cost-sharing basis between the federal government and government of Sindh. The project is to be executed in District Sanghar.

Fiberglass and Its Application Areas

on 23/10/2023

Fiberglass is a type of reinforced plastic material made from fine fibers of glass. It is commonly used in various industries and applications due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and insulating properties. Fiberglass is a versatile material with a wide range of applications, and its unique properties make it highly sought after in various industries. Here are some key points about fiberglass:
Composition: Fiberglass is composed of small glass fibers that are woven together or laid down in a random pattern and then bound together using a resin. The glass fibers provide strength and reinforcement, while the resin acts as a binder and protects the fibers from damage.
Manufacturing Process: The process of manufacturing fiberglass involves several steps. First, the glass fibers are produced by melting glass at high temperatures and then drawing them into fine strands. These strands are then combined to form a yarn or woven into a fabric-like material. The fabric is impregnated with a liquid resin, usually polyester, epoxy, or vinylester, which cures and hardens to hold the fibers together.
Properties: Fiberglass possesses several desirable properties, including high strength, low weight, corrosion resistance, thermal insulation, and electrical insulation. It is also non-magnetic and non-conductive, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Applications: Fiberglass finds applications in various industries, such as construction, automotive, aerospace, marine, electrical, and consumer goods. It is commonly used for manufacturing boat hulls, automotive parts, pipes, tanks, insulation materials, surfboards, wind turbine blades, aircraft components, and more.
Advantages: Fiberglass offers several advantages over other materials. It is lightweight yet strong, making it an excellent alternative to metals. It is also resistant to corrosion and chemicals, which extends its lifespan. Fiberglass is a good electrical insulator, has low thermal conductivity, and can be molded into complex shapes, allowing for versatile design possibilities.
Safety Considerations: While fiberglass is generally safe to use, it is essential to take proper precautions when working with fiberglass products. The tiny glass fibers can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and eye irritation if proper protective measures are not taken. It is recommended to use protective clothing, gloves, goggles, and a mask when handling fiberglass materials. 
Application Areas of Fibreglass Composites
Fiberglass is utilized in various industries and has numerous application areas due to its desirable properties. Here are some common application areas of fiberglass:
Construction and Architecture: Fiberglass is widely used in construction for applications such as roofing materials, wall panels, doors, windows, insulation, and reinforcement of concrete structures. It offers durability, weather resistance, and thermal insulation properties.
Automotive and Aerospace: Fiberglass is employed in the manufacturing of automotive parts, including body panels, hoods, bumpers, and interior components. In the aerospace industry, it is used for aircraft components, such as fairings, wingtips, and radomes, due to its lightweight and high strength properties.
Marine and Boating: Fiberglass is extensively used in the marine industry for boat hulls, decks, and other structural components. It is preferred for its resistance to water, corrosion, and its ability to provide strength without adding excessive weight.
Wind Energy: Fiberglass is a common material for manufacturing wind turbine blades. Its lightweight nature, high strength, and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions make it suitable for harnessing wind energy efficiently.
Electrical and Electronics: Fiberglass is used in the electrical and electronics industry for insulation purposes. It is employed in electrical panels, circuit boards, insulating sleeves, and as a reinforcement material for electrical cables.
Sports and Recreation: Fiberglass is widely utilized in various sports and recreational equipment. It is used in the production of surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks, skis, snowboards, and lightweight helmets due to its strength and flexibility.
Chemical and Corrosive Environments: Fiberglass-reinforced plastics (FRP) are resistant to corrosion from chemicals, making them suitable for applications such as storage tanks, pipes, and ductwork in chemical processing plants and corrosive environments.
Consumer Goods: Fiberglass is used in the manufacturing of a wide range of consumer goods, including furniture, bathtub and shower enclosures, kitchen appliances, water tanks, and decorative items.
Medical and Healthcare: Fiberglass is utilized in the medical industry for orthopedic casts, splints, and prosthetics due to its lightweight, strong, and moldable properties.
These are just a few examples of the numerous application areas of fiberglass. Its versatility, strength, durability, and resistance to various environmental factors make it a valuable material in many industries.

Innovative Approach:
How Engineering Universities in Pakistan challenge the Assumption?

on 23/10/2023

By using novel strategies, engineering universities in Pakistan are questioning the presumptions associated with engineering education. Pakistani engineering universities are progressively implementing project-based learning techniques. Students are urged to focus on practical projects rather than merely attending academic lectures. This strategy encourages collaboration, teamwork, and the application of information in real-world situations. It helps students comprehend engineering ideas more thoroughly and gets them ready for difficulties in the workplace. Engineering institutions in Pakistan are collaborating with businesses because they understand how important industry-academia collaboration is. These partnerships give students access to research projects, internships, and professional industry mentoring. Universities bridge the gap between academic study and real-world application by collaborating closely with businesses to make sure their curriculum is current and meets business demands. To promote an innovative and entrepreneurial culture, engineering institutions are establishing centers for entrepreneurship and innovation. These facilities offer students the tools, support, and cash they need to develop their ideas into marketable goods or services. Universities inspire students to go outside of conventional career pathways and become creating employment rather than seekers of employment by fostering an entrepreneurial attitude.
Pakistani engineering schools understand the value of both technical knowledge and soft skills. They are embracing training courses and programmes that emphasise critical thinking, communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Universities educate students to become well-rounded engineers who can work well in teams, adapt to shifting conditions, and succeed in the workplace. Engineering universities in Pakistan are adapting their curricula to include emerging technologies in order to stay up with technological development. In fields including artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), robots, and renewable energy, they are providing courses and research possibilities. Universities make sure they remain at the forefront of technological innovation by providing students with knowledge and skills in these cutting-edge sectors. Engineering colleges are actively involved in research that is driven by industry. In order to tackle real-world problems and discover creative solutions, they are working on research initiatives with businesses. In addition to advancing knowledge, this study offers students meaningful possibilities for experiential learning. Pakistani engineering universities are collaborating and forming alliances with respected foreign universities. Exchanges between students and teachers, team research initiatives, and information sharing are made possible by these connections. Universities may introduce their students to other viewpoints, international best practices, and chances for international research through participating in international collaborations.
These cutting-edge methods cast doubt on the notion that engineering education is just concerned with theoretical ideas and memorization. Engineering universities across the country are developing a culture of invention, creativity, and implementation by implementing these practices, to make sure their graduates are well-equipped for the difficulties facing the contemporary engineering sector.
In the context of the cutting-edge strategies used by engineering institutes in Pakistan, the concept of patent writing is particularly pertinent and suitable. Patents are significant resources that may be commercialized to boost the economy. Engineering colleges in Pakistan foster an innovative and entrepreneurial culture by pushing students to file patents. By founding their own businesses, licensing their technology to established corporations, or looking for investment money, students have a legal framework within which to profit from their ideas. By using this strategy, an ecosystem is fostered that encourages the conversion of concepts into usable goods or services. Patents support both economic expansion and technical innovation. When engineering colleges in Pakistan encourage patent drafting, they help to create an atmosphere that is favorable to creativity and the development of intellectual property. When used and commercialized, these patents have the potential to create new industries, jobs, and economic success. Universities play a critical role in advancing technology and strengthening the national economy by stressing the value of patents.
Writing patents is very advantageous and acceptable in the context of the cutting-edge strategies used by Pakistani engineering institutes. It develops industrial relevance, safeguards intellectual property, supports entrepreneurship and innovation, advances research and development, fosters cooperation and knowledge sharing, advances technical progress, and boosts the economy. Universities encourage a culture of creativity and commercialization by encouraging students and researchers to file patents, giving them the power to use their ideas for both personal and public gain.
Based on the entire conversation, it is clear that technological incubation centers are desperately needed to encourage creative thinking and execution in Pakistan’s engineering institutes. Technical incubation facilities offer a special setting and setting for fostering innovation. They enable students and researchers in turning their ideas into workable goods or services by providing resources, infrastructure, and mentorship. These facilities provide an environment that promotes innovation, experimentation, and problem-solving, which helps people come up with fresh answers to everyday problems. Technical incubation facilities are essential for promoting entrepreneurial ideas. They help budding entrepreneurs launch their own businesses based on their creative ideas by offering advice, coaching, access to networks, and financial options. These resources help entrepreneurs negotiate the challenges of beginning and expanding a business by providing invaluable assistance in areas like business planning, market research, legal support, and marketing tactics.
Strong connections between academics and industry are facilitated via technical incubation centers. They build relationships with regional businesses, corporate partners, and investors to promote cooperation and information sharing. Startups and innovators may access industry knowledge through these connections, learn about the market, and get input on their concepts. The odds of successful commercialization and widespread use of cutting-edge innovations are increased by incubation centers since they bridge the divide between academics and industries. For Pakistan’s engineering institutions to foster creative thinking and implementation, technical incubation centers are essential. These centers offer the tools that students and researchers need to convert their ideas into profitable companies, including the infrastructure, mentorship, industry connections, chances for skill development, platforms for cooperation, and access to resources. The expansion of the startup ecosystem, industry-academia collaboration, and general economic development are all facilitated by incubation centers through fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem and encouraging innovation.

Call for introducing economic, institutional reforms

on 23/10/2023

The Progressive Group of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has urged the government to make the recently adopted IMF program final by introducing economic and institutional reforms in the country.
The Progressive Group further said that under this package, a digital one-window industry setting-up app should be introduced to facilitate the establishment of industries in the country. This app should also be linked to the Federal Board of Revenue, Customs, WAPDA, Banks, Social Security, Environment, Labour and all other concerned departments to obtain the necessary permits and subsequently create an investor-friendly and convenient environment for the smooth running of the industry.
Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer, the central leader of the Progressive Group and a member of the Executive Committee of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said in a statement that measures should be taken on a war footing basis to increase domestic exports, in which the availability of export raw materials would be made easy and guaranteed. Exporters should also be awarded national hero status, establishing criminal cases against govt officials harassing exporters and ensuring the appointment of commercial attachés worldwide on merit and linking their promotion to their performance. He added that steps should also be taken to increase export of Made in Pakistan value-added products on a war footing.