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Less Harshness, Less Reoffending: What Norway Does Better in Prisons
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- Category: Europe
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Critics dismissively speak of “luxury prisons” when they see images from Norwegian correctional facilities such as Bastøy: small, bright rooms, televisions, kitchens, workshops, gardens and prison officers who do not behave aggressively. But behind this system is not leniency. It is based on a sober question: What ultimately makes society safer? Almost all prisoners will eventually be released — and then they will be our neighbors, or stand next to us at the supermarket checkout. Norway says: Prisoners should not be “broken” or humiliated. They should be prepared to function in the real world later on and make a contribution.
Read more: Less Harshness, Less Reoffending: What Norway Does Better in Prisons
Ecuador study offers hope: Rainforests can recover faster than expected
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- Category: Americas
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Good news from Ecuador: rainforests can recover faster than previously thought. A study by TU Darmstadt shows that biodiversity on abandoned agricultural land in Ecuador returned to more than 90 per cent of its original level within 30 years. However, researchers warn that this recovery only works if intact primary forests are nearby.
Read more: Ecuador study offers hope: Rainforests can recover faster than expected
Spotify, Deezer & Apple Music: France’s streaming tax has raised over €10 million for the local music scene
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- Category: Economy
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France is making major streaming services pay up. Since the start of 2024, platforms such as Spotify, Deezer and Apple Music have been paying a streaming levy on their revenue. The country is using the proceeds to support its own music scene. The money goes directly towards productions, tours and smaller organisations within the industry. Classical music, chanson and jazz are benefiting in particular – genres that are often under pressure in the market. Around 10 million euros were raised in the first year. Less than expected, but enough to make hundreds of projects possible.
The Energy Transition Is Already Happening in Electricity: The EU and China Lead the Expansion of Renewables
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- Category: Economy
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Globally, most energy still comes from climate-damaging fossil fuels such as oil, gas and coal. At the same time, the share of renewable energy is growing, especially in the electricity sector. The EU and China are leading this expansion. Economist Nikolaus Kowall explains how far the energy transition has actually progressed and where it is gaining momentum.
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