SINGAPORE -- Singapore on Friday launched a 143 million Singapore dollars (112 million U.S. dollars) funding initiative to accelerate the development and commercialization of low-carbon technologies for industry, its largest single funding program to date dedicated to industrial decarbonization research and development.
The initiative will support research into technologies tailored to Singapore's specific industrial emissions challenges, with funding focused on carbon capture, carbon utilization and other emerging technologies, the Advanced Energy and Decarbonisation Office and the Singapore Economic Development Board said in a joint statement. (Singapore-Decarbonization)
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NEW DELHI -- India's federal environment minister Bhupender Yadav on Friday said two satellite-tagged Amur falcons returned to the northeastern state of Manipur after traveling across 23 countries.
According to the minister, the falcons arrived in Manipur on Thursday, 11 days after departing from their breeding grounds in neighboring China. (India-Amur Falcons)
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ULAN BATOR -- Mongolia celebrated International Day of the Snow Leopard on Friday to raise public awareness of the endangered species and highlight the importance of public participation in its conservation.
"The snow leopard is an exceptionally rare species that reflects the ecological balance of mountain ecosystems. It is classified as 'very rare' under Mongolia's Law on Fauna," the country's Ministry of Environment and Climate Change said. (Mongolia-Snow Leopard)
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VIENTIANE -- Lao officials are preparing for the end of Buddhist Lent and the traditional boat racing festival, scheduled for Oct. 25-27, with religious ceremonies, cultural performances and traditional boat races planned as part of the celebrations.
The event will feature alms-giving ceremonies, fireworks and light boat floating. The boat racing competition will take place on Oct. 27. As one of Laos' most vibrant traditional festivals, the celebration will illuminate the city with glowing boats and colorful lanterns, creating a festive atmosphere. (Laos-Festival) ■
