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Euractiv
2 days ago
- Business
- Euractiv
Why the EU's 2040 climate target could be the most difficult yet
The EU's upcoming 2040 climate target is shaping up to be its most politically divisive yet, with a proposed 90% emissions cut sparking fierce debate across Europe as the bloc charts a path to net-zero by 2050. The European Commission looks set to present a headline 90% cut in overall emissions by 2040 from a 1990 baseline. This target is intended to keep Europe on track to help limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. But the target is far from universally popular, despite signs of public support. French President Emmanuel Macron has warned against 'overburdening' the EU with an overly ambitious target, aligning with a campaign led by Poland, Italy, and Czechia – all of which argue that a 90% cut would be too costly for the EU economy. Others, including Denmark and the new German government, argue that 90% is the bare minimum that Europe should aim for. At the heart of the disagreement lies an assessment by the EU's climate science advisory board, which maintains that Europe must cut emissions by at least this amount to remain within climate limits – a stance endorsed by the Commission's top climate officials. On the other side of the argument is the Berlin-based Centre for European Policy. The free-market think tank argues a 78% target would represent a more politically feasible linear reduction path towards net-zero by 2050. Such analyses may appeal to politicians concerned that aggressive climate action could harm the economy – or their standing with voters. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, pointing to an incoming carbon price on heating and motor fuels, has warned that EU climate policies are contributing to 'high energy prices' that could 'bring the downfall of many democratic governments'. Once adopted by MEPs and governments, the 2040 target will become legally binding. Some opponents already say they are being cornered into accepting a figure they consider too high. A tight deadline Normally, it takes European lawmakers about a year (or more) to turn a Commission proposal into legislation. But the global climate diplomacy cycle demands immediate action. Like most parties to the Paris Agreement, Brussels has already missed a February deadline to submit its 2035 emissions reduction pledge to the UN – a key input for a global climate action progress report that should headline the upcoming COP30 summit in Brazil. Without a target from Brussels, international climate action risks stalling, especially following Donald Trump's withdrawal of the US from the agreement for a second time. But the EU's 2035 goal, known as 'nationally determined contribution' or NDC in EU jargon, requires unanimous agreement from all 27 EU member states and must align with the final 2040 target. The clash between both camps is heating up because environment ministers are due to convene for an extraordinary summit on 18 September, just one week before the UN General Assembly in New York. Some form of agreement will need to be reached by that date. Shaping the future Another reason many EU members are wary of a high 2040 target is concern over what comes next: the legislation required to meet it. Once the target has been set, the European Commission will need to present a raft of new legislation to put the EU on track to achieve an expected 90% reduction in emissions. However, unlike with the EU's 55% target for 2030, which was largely absorbed by the power sector, other industries will now have to step up. (rh, de)
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Action Item' Treats Burnout as 'Collective Condition, Silenced Crisis' (Exclusive Karlovy Vary Trailer)
Last year, Berlin-based Slovakian writer-director and visual artist Paula Ďurinová screened her documentary debut, Lapilli, about rocks and the loss of loved ones, at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF). This year, she returns to its 59th edition with her sophomore doc Action Item, which the festival calls 'an entirely different, yet equally sensitive film.' Sensibility is key as the doc is about burnout syndrome, treating it, as press materials highlight, as 'a collective condition and a silenced crisis.' More from The Hollywood Reporter Bertelsmann's RTL Group to Buy Sky Deutschland from Comcast 'Squid Game' Finale Ends With Surprise Hollywood Star Cameo Lalo Schifrin, Acclaimed Composer of 'Mission: Impossible' and 'Mannix' Themes, Dies at 93 Ďurinová explores how exhaustion is not just lived but 'constructed, shaped by the pressures of constant performance and control,' they also emphasize. 'Through collective reflection and found footage, the film traces the shift from personal fatigue to a shared understanding of systemic conditions. It challenges the narratives of self-optimization, revealing burnout as more than an individual crisis. Between resistance and care, between memory and action, Action Item uncovers what has always been there – anxiety as a public secret.' A synopsis on the KVIFF website calls the doc an 'activist anatomy of burnout, set in Berlin, interweaves the observation of community sharing with a more experimental montage,' a synopsis on the KVIFF website explains. 'The work takes note of the myths associated with individualistic society, yet, at the same time, it conveys sincere moments of solidarity between individuals who aren't afraid to speak of their anxieties. This is both a personal and also very human film, which invites us to take a break in these hectic times, when burnout doesn't necessarily mean the end; on the contrary, it might be a new beginning, where individual pain is gradually transformed into the power of collective sharing.' THR can now reveal the first trailer for the film, which showcases how people featured in it discuss their struggles and gives experimental visual expressions to them. 'Today's public secret is that everyone is anxious,' one person says in it. And yes, there is also time for physical closeness. 'Action Item emerged from my personal experience with anxiety, depression, and a burnout episode several years ago,' Ďurinová explains. 'Needing to understand what had happened, I began reading various essays and self-published zines that critique the privatization of mental health and focus on its political dimensions.' Sales for the film, which debuts on July 6 in the Proxima Competition lineup at Karlovy Vary, in which Lapilli also screened, are being handled by Portuguese sales and festival distribution agency Kino Rebelde. The 2025 edition of KVIFF, star-studded as always, runs July 4-12. The new doc from Bratislava-based production company guča films is also part of the international competition at the 36th FidMarseille International Film Festival, running July 8-13. Action Item was produced by Matej Sotník for guča, with co-producers Claw films, Slovak Television and Radio, and Ďurinová as part of her studies at Universität der Künste Berlin. Lisboa-based Kino Rebelde holds international rights. 'The circular and repetitive aspects of depression, anxiety or burnout guide the film,' explains Ďurinová. 'Each new experience carries the memory of the previous one and, at the same time, anticipates the next. With this film, I wanted to create a certain suspension of time and space in which we can reflect on past crises and depart from them to look for a wider context.' Watch the trailer for Action Item below. Best of The Hollywood Reporter The 40 Best Films About the Immigrant Experience Wes Anderson's Movies Ranked From Worst to Best 13 of Tom Cruise's Most Jaw-Dropping Stunts
Vancouver Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vancouver Sun
SO/ Paris is the chicest hotel for pampering, dining and shopping
One of the world's coolest hotels has stepped into the loungewear category for the second time. SO/ Paris – a contemporary property from Accor and restaurant group Paris Society – just dropped another collaboration with Berlin-based label Tom Àdam . The luxe hotel has become somewhat of a hotspot in recent years, known for its refined, chic decor and breathtaking view of the Seine River. Every inch of the place feels like a magazine editorial, blending art deco and futurism with a rustic orange and gold tone palette. It's easy to see why the place has become a fashion week fixture on the social calendar. Discover the best of B.C.'s recipes, restaurants and wine. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of West Coast Table will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. The latest SO/ x Tom Àdam collaboration plays on the colour scheme of the hotel's river view, blending both the relaxed and sophisticated vibes of the SO/ brand. The center of the collection is the two-piece loungewear set ($470) in navy blue, made out of cozy and sustainable Tencel. The hotel's logo is subtly embroidered on the front pocket for an 'if you know, you know' nod to the SO/ Paris. Our favourite part of this set is the pieces can easily be worn out-and-about, as well as styled with jeans (or whatever you like) – or kept as a pajama set. The true star of the line, however, is the matching navy blue sleep mask ($95) which guarantees a good night's sleep at the hotel and beyond. Packaged in a matching and reusable drawstring bag, this accessory is an easy one to travel with or lovely to gift a friend. Also made of Tencel, the mask is adjustable for comfort and breathable for sensitive skin. The line follows the orange-themed collaboration from last year, which also included a pajama set and striped sleep mask . Conveniently located steps from the Sully-Morland Metro station between Bastille and Le Marais, the SO/ Paris is a rare ultra-modern hotel experience in the French capital that doesn't compromise on Parisian style. Attention to detail is at the core of the experience as soon as you enter the doors; guests are welcomed with a signature non-alcoholic refresher made of rhubarb, pineapple and rose to set the stage. Patou-designed staff uniforms are also a nice touch, playing into the curated experience of the hotel. Through the ground floor and to the left is the laid-back Lobby Cafe , a perfect spot for a meeting or to post up on your laptop over a red velvet cappuccino. The 15th floor houses Paris hot spot BONNIE , which has become one of the city's most popular weekend bars and restaurants, thanks to impeccable cocktail selection and views. Hotel guests will find the lavish breakfast buffet served here until 10:30 a.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. on weekends. The real mark of a fantastic hotel, however, is the room. With 162 total – 140 standard and 22 suites – SO/Paris knows exactly how to be a home away from home while somehow feeling luxurious in every way. Contemporary art and decor outfit each naturally bright room, with funky touches like a JARRE bulldog-shaped Bluetooth speaker to jam out to your favourite tunes. Get a balcony if you can: you won't regret the evening Eiffel Tower view while sipping a cup of SO/ 's custom-blended teas. Spa-inspired showers are the highlight of the bathrooms, outfitted with products from opulent label Codage Paris. The beloved skincare brand is also involved in a collaboration with the property, co-creating the Une Nuit Au SO serum – translating to 'A Night At The SO.' The silky serum blends essential oils and retinoids, stimulating the production of collagen to keep skin looking fresh and supple after a long flight and beyond. Codage Paris products are also used in the on-property spa, which features an on-site Turkish steam bath. The Le Marais neighbourhood in the 4th arrondissement is also just steps away. Take a stroll down to Noir coffee bar before an afternoon of leisurely shopping at our go-to's: Officine Universelle Buly for a custom lip balm , Sezane's L'Appartement for their signature cardigans , and Florence Finkelsztajn for bagels. The SO/ x Tom Àdam collaboration has been proving popular, so we've rounded up a few similar options for both men and women at an attainable price point. This breezy cotton and linen set from Le 31 by Simons is designed right here in Canada. Pants feature a drawcord-adjustable waist and slit pockets, while the matching shirt can be easily worn over a tank or buttoned up. This outfit is designed for men, but can easily be worn as an oversized look for women. Price: Top – $60 | Pants – $70 Where to buy: Simons Dress it up or dress it down. Joe Fresh's wide leg linen pants can transition from loungewear to work wear during the warmer months. The matching button down top offers a relaxed, boxy fit for an elevated look that can be dressed up or down. Price: Top – $35 | Pants – $35 Where to buy: Joe Fresh Uniqlo is beloved around the globe for its well-designed basics. For an alternative to blue, we're loving the natural toned pants and chic sleeveless blouse for both an office and going out look. Price: Top – $30 | Pants – $40 Where to buy: Uniqlo Gap is back, if you haven't noticed. This linen-blend crop shirt and matching striped pants are perfect for walking the dog, throwing over a swimsuit at the beach or just an extra pair of pajamas. Both pieces come in an array of sizes from petite to tall, as well as varied pant lengths depending on your height. Price: Top – $80 | Pants – $108 Where to buy: Gap Loungewear queen Kim Kardashian keeps selling out of her pajamas and for good reason. SKIMS's soft lounge set is the ultimate in at-home cozy wear – but no one's stopping you from wearing it outside. This set comes in marble, heather gray and black. Price: $200 Where to buy: Skims Shopping Essentials , a category written by research-obsessed shopping fanatics, is now on . Explore in-depth product reviews, expert recommendations and exciting collaborations — plus get behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and trending products — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter .
Libya Review
5 days ago
- Libya Review
Libyan Militia Tried to Block Rescue of Migrants
A German humanitarian organization has accused a Libyan militia of attempting to disrupt a maritime rescue operation in the central Mediterranean, during which 30 migrants were saved from drowning. Sea-Watch, the Berlin-based NGO, reported that its SeaWatch5 vessel carried out a rescue mission on Thursday, saving dozens of people in distress at sea. However, the operation faced interference from what the group described as a 'Libyan militia.' 'Today, with our #SeaWatch5, we intervened to rescue 30 people in danger. On site, a Libyan militia tried to intimidate us—unsuccessfully. The shipwrecked individuals are now safe on board with us,' Sea-Watch said in a post on social media. The NGO emphasized that the rescued individuals were saved not only from drowning, but also from being pushed back to Libyan detention camps, which have been widely condemned for inhumane conditions. Following the rescue, Sea-Watch5 was assigned the port of Marina di Carrara in northern Italy as the official disembarkation site—a decision the organization criticized sharply. 'A disembarkation point unnecessarily and inhumanely far away, which we will reach after three days of sailing. The Italian political farce continues,' the statement added, referring to what they call intentional delays and obstacles in the Italian government's handling of migrant rescues. European NGOs have frequently raised concerns about the increasing collaboration between EU states and Libyan authorities, as well as the criminalization of search and rescue operations. Libya remains a major departure point for migrants attempting to reach Europe, many of whom risk their lives in unseaworthy boats. Tags: libyaMediterraneanmigrantsmilitiasSea-Watch
Business Insider
25-06-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Synthflow AI is bringing 'conversational' voice agents to call centers. Read the pitch deck that it used to raise $20 million.
The Berlin-based startup's platform lets enterprise customers create and deploy AI voice agents without coding expertise. Companies can customize those agents to handle simple inquiries, customer support, and follow-up with actions like appointment scheduling. "You can think of Synthflow as a voice AI platform on a no-code basis that allows businesses to very easily and quickly build and deploy voice AI agents," Hakob Astabatsyan, cofounder of Synthflow, told Business Insider. Astabatsyan said his startup's tech can replace traditional automated call menus, in which users press buttons to select options. Instead, Synthflow's technology is built on large language models that can have "real-time contextual conversations," Astabatsyan said. In a demo video seen by BI, an AI agent answers a call from a customer seeking a car insurance quote. The AI agent asks for the customer's details in a relaxed, conversational tone before transferring to a human operator. Astabatsyan said the AI agent's responses come in under 400 milliseconds, which matches the human brain's processing speed for conversations. Astabatsyan founded Synthflow in 2023 with Albert Astabatsyan and Sassun Mirzakhan-Saky. The startup says it now has over 1,000 enterprise clients, often in call centers, in areas such as finance, healthcare, and education. It also offers its tech on a white-label basis and can integrate into a company's existing telephony system. Voice has become a key battleground among AI startups, with companies like ElevenLabs and PolyAI also raising millions in capital to develop AI for call centers. Astabatsyan said that fundraising for AI startups is "definitely not easy" because the expectations are "very, very high." He added that investors expect AI startups to grow "two times faster" than benchmarks from a few years ago. Synthflow's Series A round, which was led by Accel with participation from Atlantic Labs and Singular, brings the startup's total funding to $30 million. Synthflow plans to use the fresh funding to open a new US office and invest in developing its agent platform. Synthflow pitch deck Synthflow AI pitch deck Synthflow AI pitch deck
