Europe Urged to Lead in New Space Race Amidst Global Competition
The European space sector is at a critical crossroads, facing fierce competition and ambitious goals in the new space race. With advancements from private and state-backed entities, ESA’s Director-General Josef Aschbacher emphasizes the need for Europe to lead in space exploration. As NASA and China gear up for lunar missions, Europe must enhance its capabilities and foster innovation to remain competitive. Collaboration among European nations and international partnerships are crucial for leveraging resources and technology in this evolving landscape.
Europe Launches TIM Field Campaign for Severe Storms Research
Europe is launching the ‘TIM’ measurement campaign inspired by the movie Twisters to improve early warning systems for severe thunderstorms. Researchers stress the importance of safety and environmental responsibility while seeking donors and engaging with public authorities. The TWISTERS live expert talk is scheduled for Tuesday, 16 July 2024. For more information, visit www.tim-campaign.eu. Contact Stefan Eisenbach at stefan.eisenbach@essl.org for inquiries.
Europe EV Sales Report: Decline in May, Tesla’s Deliveries Plummet, and Two Standout Performers
Recent data shows a 10% decrease in plugin vehicle registrations in Europe in May, with Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) both experiencing declines. Despite challenges, standout performers include the new Volvo EX30 and the Tesla Model 3. With over half of the European car market now electrified in some form, traditional petrol and diesel vehicles are seeing declines.
German Hoteliers Benefit from UEFA Euro 2024 Tournament
German hoteliers saw a significant boost in tourism during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament, with cities like Gelsenkirchen experiencing a remarkable 786% increase in bookings. The average daily rate for hotels in Germany also rose by 35%, showcasing the impact of the event on local accommodations. Working with B2B partners like DidaTravel was crucial in securing competitive rates and availability during high-demand periods.
Gazprom Sees Surge in Natural Gas Exports to Europe Amidst Shifting Energy Market Dynamics
Russia’s Gazprom experiences a 23% increase in natural gas exports to Europe in June 2024, following a shift in energy market dynamics post-Ukraine invasion. Despite decline in overall exports compared to previous years, Gazprom sees rise in gas sales to China. Strategic decisions by Gazprom will impact global gas market dynamics.
Italy Stocks Close Lower as Telecoms, Utilities, and Healthcare Sectors Decline
Italy stocks closed lower on Friday, with the Investing.com Italy 40 index dropping by 0.18% due to losses in Telecoms, Utilities, and Healthcare sectors. Top performers included Tenaris SA and STMicroelectronics, while worst performers included Brunello Cucinelli and Terna Rete Elettrica Nazionale SpA. In commodities trading, crude oil and Brent oil prices fell, while gold futures rose. EUR/USD and EUR/GBP remained steady, while the US Dollar Index Futures decreased slightly.
Türkiye Emerges as Leader in Hydropower Capacity Expansion in Europe
Türkiye emerges as a leader in hydropower capacity expansion in Europe, adding 399 MW last year, surpassing other European countries. Hydropower plants are favored globally for their efficiency and clean energy production. The IHA’s ‘2024 World Hydropower Outlook’ reported a global increase in installed capacity, with East Asian and Pacific countries leading the way. Türkiye’s focus on renewable energy aligns with its goal of reducing reliance on foreign energy sources. Norway holds the largest hydropower installed capacity in Europe, followed by Türkiye. China leads globally in installed capacity, with Brazil and the U.S. following closely.
Wealthy American Tourists Flock to Europe, Highlighting Financial Disparities
Wealthy American tourists are set to return to Europe this summer, boosting the tourism industry but also highlighting financial disparities. Europe must focus on enhancing productivity and prosperity to maintain its high living standards. Concerns about economic growth and technological prowess compared to the US are growing, urging policymakers to address these shortcomings for the future.
Europe Emerges as Powerhouse in AI Revolution with French Startups Leading the Way
Discover how Europe is becoming a powerhouse in the AI revolution, with French startups like Mistral, Owkin, and Hugging Face raising $2.3 billion. Learn about Arthur Mensch, the CEO of Mistral and a graduate of École Polytechnique, who exemplifies the talent nurtured in European universities. Explore how institutions like École Polytechnique are shaping the tech landscape in France and producing the next generation of tech leaders.
Rising Heat Fuels Spread of Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Europe
Rising heat in Europe is leading to a surge in mosquito-borne diseases, with a significant increase in locally acquired cases of dengue reported in the EU/EEA. Imported cases of dengue have also seen a sharp rise, marking the highest reported numbers since surveillance began in 2008. Early reports from 2024 suggest a potential increase in overall cases for the year. ECDC director Andrea Ammon attributes the spread of diseases like dengue to climate change, emphasizing the need for protective measures, vector control, and awareness campaigns in high-risk areas within Europe.