Daily Archives: October 1, 2021

Was Jan. 6 the American Great Dress Rehearsal? Maybe. The Miscellany News – Miscellany News

Posted: October 1, 2021 at 7:51 am

In 1917, the Bolsheviks conquered the then-Russian capital of St. Petersburg and overthrew the House of Romanov, which had reigned for nearly 300 years. 12 years earlier, they staged what Vladimir Lenin called The Great Dress Rehearsal, in which they attempted to overthrow the czar, were unsuccessful and waited until the regime was vulnerable enough to try again. Supposedly, General Mark Milley, the current chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, thought about the failed 1905 Russian Revolution in the wake of the attempted insurrection of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. During the chaos, Milley felt concerned that the riots were a precursor to an even worse event in the future (The Washington Post, 2021). Unfortunately, he may be right.

All Americans should heed his worry about the events that unfurled during the last days of the Trump administration and are described in Bob Woodward and Robert Costas newly released book Peril (The Washington Post, 2021). Whenever a shocking event occurs, the historically inept are quick to describe such events as unprecedented, whereas the historically curious eagerly scout for possible parallels. Milley, an amateur historian, attended Princeton University before serving in the U.S. military, obtaining a Bachelors degree in politics followed by a Masters in international relations from Columbia University. As Woodward and Costa describe in Peril, the metaphors that came to Milleys mindwhether they were cultural or historicalillustrate the dark chapter that the United States continues to live through in the aftermath of the Trump presidency.

Following the attempted insurrection, Milley feared Donald Trump could spark an American Reichstag moment before Joe Bidens swearing-in two weeks later, akin to German Chancellor Adolf Hitler using an arson attack on the parliament building as a ploy to establish dictatorial rule in 1933 (CNN Politics, 2021). In fact, this is not the only parallel to the Nazi regime that occurred to Milley as he attempted to make sense of the attack. Sadly, he concluded that some insurrectionists, including the Proud Boys and Boogaloo movement, arrived with plans to begin a revolution. In other words, they were modern-day Brownshirts. Without a doubt, Milley was right (Business Insider 2021).

During the Black Lives Matter protests in Summer 2020, former President Trump rebuked then-Defense Secretary Mark Esper after his public opposition to the invocation of the Insurrection Act, which allows the President to deploy the National Guard without congressional approval under certain circumstances. According to Milley, Trumps animosity reminded him of Gunnery Sergeant Hartman from Stanley Kubricks 1987 war film Full Metal Jacket, whose antics included constant screaming and crude insults (CNN Politics, 2021). Moreover, he viewed Stephen Miller, Trumps top adviser who attended meetings centered around solving the unrest, as an American version of Grigori Rasputin, a seemingly insignificant character who actually wielded substantial power in the final years of Czar Nicholas IIs reign (The Washington Post, 2021).

Throughout the final year of his presidency, Trump remained consistently curious about attacking Iran. These sentiments frightened Milley, as he pictured a Wag the Dog scenario in reference to the 1997 film in which a president launches a war to distract his constituents from a sex scandal. While Trump weighed in on possible Iranian targets, including Qasem Soleimani, Milley also envisioned a situation similar to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, the event that kickstarted World War I, as well as the 1962 Cuban missile crisis. In evoking such parallels, Milley revealed his fears of the potential consequences leading to a war between great powers. As Woodward and Costa write, It was precisely the kind of hair-trigger environment where an accident or misinterpretation could escalate catastrophically (Peril, 2021).

Pretending that he didnt lose does not make Donald Trump a winner; however, lacking the awareness of how truly dangerous he was as a leaderwhich some moderate Democrats are doingin no way lessens the threat he and his loyalists pose to our democracy. If another uprising from his base occurs in 12 years, or maybe sooner, we will wish we did something in the present day to prevent it, like convicting the politicians and assailants responsible instead of simply decrying their decision to underplay the gravity of the situation. Was Jan. 6 the American version of the Great Dress Rehearsal? Maybe a failed Reichstag moment? Although unclear, history tells us that it may have been, meaning that an irreversibly damaging effect on our democracy will possibly take place. That being said, are we as a country willing to pay enough attention in order to avert the graphic sequel? It certainly does not seem that way, but we must in order to protect the republic.

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John Lydon Says Ailing Wife Will Be ‘Loved Every Step of the Way’ – Ultimate Classic Rock

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John Lydon said his ailing wife of 42 years would be loved every step of the way as she continued to live with Alzheimers disease.

The Sex Pistols iconexplained that hed spent most of last year finding the right kind of carers for Nora Forster, who became his wife in 1979. Hed revealed her diagnosis in 2018.

All girls and they all love Nora and she loves them, Lydon told the Metro of the people hed hired. I found I was being selfish by being the only caregiver. I was denying her female company. Silly little things that absolutely mattered to her that I was oblivious to, like nail varnish and ladies banter and lipstick. I was being ridiculously overprotective.

The rocker reported that he'd spoken to Nora via video chat every night during hisongoing spoken-word tour in support of 2020 memoir I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right. Theres little acknowledgements, then the last three minutes are gone from her life completely, he said, but shell remember things from 20 or 40 years ago absolutely vividly. Its an amazing thing to watch, a human brain deteriorate and yet escalate in clarity in certain things.

Asked if he thought people might be surprised that the couple has been together for so long, Lydon responded: Well, they wouldnt expect me to be kind, considerate and caring for other human beings but youve got to look at my long and complex history. I was taking care of problem children when I was 15. That was before the Sex Pistols so I was well prepared for them.

While music has remained part of the couple's relationship, Lydon admitted that old British comedy was a stronger connection. When I was young I had meningitis and lost my memory, which is how I could connect with Noras situation, the vocalist explained. I used British comedies to get me back to being a human being and I think thats keeping Nora somewhat stable."

Unlike my memory loss, I had hopes of recovery it took four years but Im afraid my poor baby wont itll just get worse for her," the rocker continued. "But she wont go down without fighting and she wont go down without laughing. And she certainly, certainly will be loved every step of the way.

From AC/DC to ZZ Top, from 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' to 'London Calling,' they're all here.

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One Major Side Effect of Taking Calcium Supplements, Says Science | Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That

Posted: at 7:48 am

Some people may benefit from taking a calcium supplement daily more so than others, however, some experts argue they're not even worth itespecially since research indicates that ingesting calcium at that level may increase your risk of developing heart complications.Still, it's evident that Americans often don't get enough calcium through diet alone.

According to the current USDA Dietary Guidelines, calcium is one of the four dietary components that are of public health concern for the general U.S. population. As is the case with potassium, dietary fiber, and vitamin D, calcium is a nutrient that's often under-consumed, which can increase a person's risk of several associated health issues, namely osteoporosis. In fact, nearly 30% of men and 60% of women above the age of 19 don't consume enough calcium on a regular basis.

RELATED:The #1 Best Food to Eat for Calcium, Says Science

It's especially important for adults between the ages of 19 and 30 to consume adequate levels of calcium through diet, as bone mass is still actively accruing during this time of life. It's also imperative for post-menopausal women to meet the recommended intake of calcium each day to help prevent bone loss. When a woman enters menopause, her estrogen levels drop, which can cause her bone mineral density to decline.

For reference, a woman between the age of 19 and 50 requires about 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily, whereas one who's 51 and older needs closer to 1,200 milligrams per day. For a man, it's recommended that those 19 and above consume about 1,000 milligrams of the mineral each day. However, a supplement may not be the best solution. Some experts argue that the body may not absorb calcium from a pill as effectively as when it's consumed from foods that are rich in calcium.

Another concern? Ingesting too much calcium via a supplement may also put you at risk of major heart issues. In an article from Johns Hopkins Medicine, Erin Michos, MD, MHS, associate director of preventive cardiology for the Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease at the university said she was concerned that calcium supplements could contribute to heart attacks and heart disease. She explained that the body can't process more than 500 milligrams of calcium at a time, meaning any excess amount of the mineral could deposit in the artery walls, or even trigger a blood clot.

Depending on the dosage, calcium supplements can contain anywhere from 400-1,000 milligrams of the mineral. Antacids like Tums and Rolaids can also hike up your calcium intake, as each pill or chew provides 200-300 milligrams of calcium. Aside from experiencing potential heart problems, other issues related to excess calcium consumption include constipation, kidney stones, and even cognitive problems, per the Cleveland Clinic.

Bottom line, if you're going to take calcium supplements, make sure you don't exceed 500 milligrams per dose. However, sourcing calcium through food choices should be the top priority!

For more, don't missOne Major Effect Vitamin K Has on Your Heart, Says New Study!

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The Best Health Food Store in Every State | Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That

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As anyone who tries to live a healthy lifestyle knows, diet can make all the difference, and a good health food store can help you meet your wellness goals, whether you're gluten-free, vegan, Keto or just trying to add more organic products into your day-to-day life. While health food stores used to be rare, they are now all over the place. The difficulty can be choosing one that has everything you need for your particular life goals.

Based on our travels, recommendations from friends and colleagues, and top reviews online, we've put together a comprehensive list of the best shops around the country for organic, local groceries, diet-specific products, and of course, vitamins and supplements. Plus, check out our pick for the healthiest restaurant in your state.

While we love a mom-and-pop shop, this Publix-backed market wins rave reviews from shoppers for being the best grocery store in the area. This fully stocked organic market offers organic produce and proteins, grab-and-go items like acai bowls and sushi, and a surprisingly robust organic wine selection.

Billed as Southern Alaska's largest health food store and deli, Rainbow has a huge selection of fresh produceover 60 items per dayand it's all organic or local. You'll also find a lunch bar that serves house-made soup, pizza, hot entrees, sandwiches, and salads. If you're having a salad for lunch here are 10 Salad Dressing Recipes You Can Make in Minutes.

With two locations, this family-owned shop has been serving healthful foods, vitamins, and supplements to health-conscious shoppers since 1982. Locals say it's the best place for healthy snacks and natural supplements.

RELATED: 15 Supplements Every Woman Should Take

With a recent remodel, this cute health food store keeps locals stocked with organic produce and other food, non-GMO products, gluten-free and allergy-free food, local honey, freshly ground nut butters, as well as natural beauty products and vitamins.

RELATED: Ugly Side Effects of Too Many Vitamins

Famous for its celebrity clientele, Erewhon is also beloved for a massive selection of organic meat and produce, and its tonic bar and cafe. Serving healthy meals and juices to go, or have delivered, Erewhon is a must-visit for healthy-minded Angelenos.

RELATED: This Popular Juice Will Reduce Inflammation In Your Body, Says Dietitian

The Denver and Boulder area has no shortage of options for healthy eating, but locals love this vegan market for the selection of vegan "dairy" including nut milk brie and vegan "ice cream." Whether you're vegan, lactose intolerant, or just skipping dairy, Nooch has you covered. Should you start drinking a mixed nut milk?

For over four decades, Chamomile has been offering fresh-made food and juice, wholesome groceries, body care, and fresh produce. They're dedicated to providing their community with the highest quality, ethically prepared products they can find and will work with you on a custom nutrition plan.

RELATED: Experts Say These Healthy Foods Can Help Fight Inflammation In Your Body

Since 1995 this family-owned shop, Harvest Market has offered fair trade products, bulk foods, groceries (including lots of gluten-free), and personal care products. In 2013, they added a variety of grab-and-go soups, salads, sandwiches, sides, sweets, and moreall made from scratch with high-quality ingredients. If you've got time to make your own, we've got 21 Healthy Grab-and-Go Snacks Perfect for Busy Days.

Locals say this is the best health food shop in Miami and rave about the prepared foods and juice selection, as well as the natural personal products and vitamins.

RELATED: Simple Ways to Never Get Sick, According to Doctors

Community-owned, the Daily thoughtfully sources from local farmers and producers. Members who volunteer can shop at a discount, but the cheery shop is open to anyone looking for healthy, natural foods.

This local fave offers healthy and gourmet foods with a focus on local, organic produce, vitamins, and beauty products. Since it's a co-operative, the prices are low for the island, and they offer senior shopping hours.

RELATED: Secret Side Effects of Eating Pineapple, Say Dietitians

Locals rave about the service in this recently remodeled spot that sells supplements, vitamins, and natural beauty lines like Mad Hippie, local beeswax, and CBD gummies.

RELATED: 20 Unhealthiest Habits When Stuck at Home

Since 1977, this store has supplied health-oriented Chicago residents with supplements, vitamins, protein powders, and more. One reviewer raved, "I can't even begin to express how wonderful this store is! The staff is extremely knowledgeable about all of their products and are very passionate about health." Speaking of protein powder, we tasted nine different kinds and this was the best.

Bulk herbs, supplements, and snacks, this family-owned since 1971 shop also offers a selection of natural and organic foods, vitamins, beauty products, herbs and spices, and Birkenstocks (if you need shoes too).

This worker-owned and operated shop has a massive selection of local produce, dairy and honey, vegan products, and gluten-free foods. Locals love that they can order in advance and pick up around the city.

RELATED: Surprising Effects of Eating Organic Produce

Locals love this "Small, family-owned business" for the "knowledgeable and helpful staff to help you find what you need," they wrote. They offer vitamins, pantry items, and personal care.

Since 1977, this natural foods store has stocked local produce, vitamins and held wellness seminars for the community. Recently, they've added delicious smoothies to their line-up! Here are the 9 best foods to add to your smoothie for a flat belly.

At this friendly shop, you'll find bulk herbs, local farm products, CBD and essential oils, personal care and household items, and a new organic coffee bar.

RELATED: One Major Effect of Taking CBD Supplements, Says Expert

This store focuses on local, organic, Maine-grown foods. You'll find organic produce and meats, dairy, baked goods, and even local spirits.

Another long-standing (since 1977) family-owned health food store, you'll find lots of organic and bulk foods here, as well as prepared foods such as vegetarian sandwiches and spreads, and a specialized Macrobiotic Food section with high-quality sea salts, misos, umeboshi, seaweeds, and other imported Japanese foods.

This friendly shop in Western Massachusetts offers local and organic food, as well as natural body care productsas well as downtown's coldest Kombucha.

With a focus on Made in Michigan, this shop offers a bounty of local produce, bulk foods, vitamins, supplements, pantry items, and a deli counterall packed with vegan and gluten-free options. Try on of our 40+ best gluten free recipes.

This self-proclaimed year-round farmers market offers incredible produce, made from scratch deli foods, and house-made vegan soft serve ice cream to hungry locals. Here are 15 delicious vegan ice cream brands that deserve a place in your freezer.

Try this health food store if you're looking for a large selection of vitamins and supplements, sports nutrition, and organic and natural pantry items and groceries.

This little spot in downtown Kansas City is an independently owned health food market dedicated to providing consumers with the best local, natural and organic products.

RELATED: Experts Say These Healthy Foods Can Help Fight Inflammation In Your Body

This West Coast chain is the favorite spot for organic produce, healthy snacks, healthy frozen and bulk foods, and more. "This place has a great selection of herbal supplements and wonderful produce," wrote one local.

RELATED: 14 Healthy Snacks That Will Actually Make You Feel Full

Locally owned since 1957, here you'll find healthy and natural snacks, Simply Organics spices, "super friendly workers" and lots of homeopathic remedies.

Billed as "not your ordinary health food store," this family-owned shop has two busy locations in Las Vegas where locals shop for herbs, healthy food choices, and whole food vitamins. If you are looking to start an indoor herb garden, here are 13 herbs perfect for the beginner.

A beloved community-based natural organic food store and wellness center that offers bulk foods, bulk seasonings and spices, kombucha-on-tap, refrigerated and frozen foods, shelf-stable grocery items, and supplements. Here's what happens to your body when you drink kombucha.

New Jersey's best source for supplements, this shop also carries specialty gourmet grocery items and a huge selection of wheat-free and gluten-free foods.

Locals write, "I love this little place. Always has great produce," about the Coop that's open to everyone, but has special deals for members. You'll find the usual fresh, local produce, vitamins, and a delicious grab-and-go counter with healthy sandwiches, salads, and sides.

The bountiful Hudson Valley is loaded with healthy options, but this family-owned market stands out for its selection of bulk foods, vitamins and supplements, and deli and juice bar.

RELATED: The Best Deli in Every State

This shop offers high-quality prepared foods like gluten-free turkey burgers, vegetable side dishes, coleslaw, grilled chicken breasts, and more. Located at the Adawehi Wellness center, the shop also stocks a full line of healthy groceries.

Everyone is welcome at this friendly and well-priced coop that is member-owned and focuses on real food. You'll find farm-fresh produce, a smoothie and juice bar, a coffee bar, and local products from over 70 producers.

RELATED: One Unexpected Side Effect of Drinking Coffee Every Day, Experts Say

A sandwich shop that serves bites like vegan BLT's and seitan bowls and a market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, healthy snacks, and more, this shop is a one-stop for healthy eaters in Ohio.

RELATED: 50 Beloved Foods American Love

This small chain is the favorite spot for organic produce, healthy snacks, healthy frozen and bulk foods, and more

RELATED: The Worst Frozen Foods You Should Never Buy

This small supermarket specializes in animal-free snack foods, supplements, and produce. If you have any of these unhealthy snacks lying around, you should throw them out right now!

Long-running grocery store focusing on natural and macrobiotic foods, plus a deli with seasonal fare like salads and sandwiches.

This 8,000 square foot wholly member-owned retail grocery store is open to all shoppers and tries to support Rhode Island's food economy by supporting local farmers. You'll find aisle after aisle of local, culturally appropriate produce and products.

This award-winning market stocks locally grown, organic, non-GMO, whole and natural foods, raw milk, grass-fed beef, gluten-free staples and snacks, and Southern specialties. You'll also find diet-specific items for Paleo, GAPS, and Whole30 foods, and foods free of additives and artificial ingredients.

You'll find organic produce, grass-fed and free-range meat, local eggs, kefir, and wellness products like essential oils at this shop.

These locally-owned shops bring the seasonal bounty of area farms to their neighbors in the city. Locals love that the shelves are stocked with the highest quality natural, local and organic foods available. Here is the #1 reason you need to wash your organic produce.

The Austin outpost of this small natural chain is a favorite spot for organic produce, healthy snacks, healthy frozen and bulk foods, and more.

This specialty food shop offers a wide range of natural and organic groceries, with a friendly team and an uber hippie vibe the locals love.

Enjoy Vermont's bounty at this market that offers specialty meats and produce, wellness products, and prepared healthy foods to go.

RELATED: The Best Balsamic Vinaigrettes on the ShelvesRanked!

This supplement- and vitamin-focused shop has a "knowledgeable staff" that sells "quality top-notch products only" according to local reviewers. Here are the best supplements for your brain.

"Best eggs, meat and natural products" raves one local, while another writes of the natural and sustainable foods shop, "Best everything."

RELATED: The Best & Worst Ways to Cook EggsRanked!

In this cafe and market, you can pick up a sandwich, as well as buy fresh, local, and organic produce, pantry staples, snacks, bulk grains and beans, confections, organic bulk herbs, and more.

This adorable little shop is bigger than it looks from the outside and should have everything you need to eat a healthy diet, including vitamins, supplements, pantry grocery items like natural honey, and lots of personal care products.

Offering healthy juices and organic meals, this cafe has all the healthy takeaway you'll need. You can order a juice detox and pick up healthy snacks as well.

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Maintain Your Health and Stay Active with These Helpful Vitamins and Minerals – La Crosse Tribune

Posted: at 7:48 am

The following article is an associate of Okanjo, an affiliate marketing agency that helps us monetize our content. Products sold through the links in the article allow us to receive compensation and keep producing great content.

Getting enough essential vitamins and minerals is a vital part of maintaining good health especially as you age. Changing nutritional needs and dietary restrictions can affect your vitamin intake over time. This makes it challenging to get the nutrients you need to keep your bones and muscles strong and ensure that other body systems are working correctly. To help you stay healthy, heres a list of vitamins and minerals adults 55 and over should consider taking daily, as well as the benefits they provide.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A protects vision, boosts the immune system, and helps the heart and lungs function properly. The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends 900 mcg for men and 700 mcg for women. Food sources include spinach, eggs, fish, milk, beef liver, cantaloupe, mangos, and broccoli.

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Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

Vitamin B1 converts food to energy and helps regulate cell function. NIH recommends 1.2 mg for men and 1.1 mg for women. Food sources include cereal, pasta, rice, legumes, seeds, nuts, whole grains,pork, and fish.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Vitamin B2 aids cell growth, development, and function. NIH recommends 1.3 mg for men and 1.1 mg for women. Food sources includefortified cereal, asparagus, spinach, broccoli, eggs, organ meats,bread, and grains.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Vitamin B3 converts food to energy and regulates cell development and function. NIH recommends 16 mg for men and 14 mg for women daily. Food sources include poultry, beef, pork, fish, grains,legumes, nuts, and fortified cereal.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 strengthens the immune system and helps with metabolism. NIH recommends 1.7 mcg for men and 1.5 mcg for women. Food sources include potatoes, starchy vegetables, fish, poultry, and organ meats.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 regulates nerve function and helps red blood cells form. NIH recommends 2.4 mcg for all adults. Food sources include beef liver, clams, fish, poultry, eggs, and fortified breakfast cereals.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent free radicals from harming body cells. It also helps wounds heal and enhances the bodys iron absorption. NIH recommends 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women. Food sources include oranges, orange juice, grapefruit, grapefruit juice, broccoli, cantaloupe, strawberries, tomatoes, and potatoes.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D aids calcium absorption to strengthen bones and help prevent osteoporosis. It also helps the immune system fight off bacteria and viruses, supports muscle function, and helps nerves transmit messages between the brain and body. NIH recommends 15 mcg (600 IU) for adults ages 19-70 and 20 mcg (800 IU) for adults 71+. Food sources includefortified cereal, milk,orange juice, yogurt, salmon, tuna, and other fatty fish.

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Vitamin E

Vitamin E protects the body from free radicals as an antioxidant. It helps open blood vessels to prevent clots and boosts the immune system to fight bacteria and viruses. NIH recommends 15 mg for all adults. Food sources include vegetable oils, nuts like peanuts and almonds, wheat germ,broccoli, and spinach.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K helps blood clot and promotes bone health. NIH recommends 120 mcg for men 19 and older and 90 mcg for women 19 and older. Food sources include leafy green vegetables such as lettuce, kale, spinach, and broccoli, blueberries, figs, meat, cheese, eggs, and soybean.

Calcium

Calcium helps keep bones and teeth strong and healthy. It also helps muscles move and nerves carry messages between the brain and body. Furthermore, this powerhouse mineral helps blood vessels move blood throughout the body and releases critical hormones and enzymes that support multiple body functions.

NIH recommends 1,000 mg for adult men 51-70, 1,200 mg for adult women 51-70, and 1,200 mg for all adults 71 and older. Food sources include milk, yogurt, cheese, kale, broccoli, canned sardines and salmon, most grains, and other fortified foods as labeled.

Folate

Folate helps the body make DNA and genetic material. NIH recommends 400 mcg of daily folate equivalents (DFEs) for adults 19+. Food sources include asparagus, brussels sprouts, spinach, oranges and orange juice, nuts, beans, and peas.

Magnesium

Magnesium regulates nerve and muscle function, blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and helps make protein, DNA, and bone. NIH recommends 400-420 mg for men and 310-320 mg for women. Food sources include legumes, nuts, seeds, fortified cereals,spinach, milk, and yogurt.

Potassium

Potassium assists multiple vital functions, including heart and kidney function, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. NIH recommends 3,400 mg for men 19 and older and 2,600 mg for women 19+. Food sources include prunes, raisins,kidney beans,lentils, soybeans,bananas, orange juice, potatoes, spinach, broccoli, acorn squash,meat, fish, and poultry.

Food v. Supplements

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025, people should follow a healthy dietary pattern at every life stage and focus on meeting food group needs with nutrient-dense foods and beverages and stay within calorie limits. The core food groups are vegetables, fruits, grains, protein, dairy, and oils. Many experts agree that eating appropriate foods is the preferred way to get necessary nutrients.

Aging-related changes, however, such as tooth loss, chronic illness, and changes in appetite can impact the amount of nutrients a body absorbs or a persons ability to eat certain foods. In this case, older adults may need to take a men's multivitaminor women's vitamin or mineral supplement to get what they need to maximize their health and stay as active as possible.

An important note: You should always consult your physician before making any dietary changes, including vitamin and mineral supplements. Taking more than recommended amounts may be harmful.

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Authoritarianism and Nationalizing Natural Resources – War on the Rocks

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Editors Note: This is an excerpt from Book Review Roundtable: Nationalizing Natural Resources from our sister publication, theTexas National Security Review. Be sure to check out thefull roundtable.

Paasha Mahdavi, Power Grab: Political Survival through Extractive Resource Nationalization (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2020)

For authoritarian rulers, revenue is the key to survival. With threats from below, as well as from allies and rivals, the foremost concern when it comes to remaining in office is securing sufficient funds to pay off potential challengers and giving oneself the requisite coercive power to repress opponents. In Power Grab, Paasha Mahdavi examines the role of natural resource rents, particularly via the nationalization of oil, in helping leaders to achieve those goals. The existing mechanisms underlying the resource curse, namely that natural resources reduce government accountability while also providing easily extractable rents for cooptation and coercion, are well known. Mahdavis contribution lies in explaining which types of leaders nationalize, the structure and process of that nationalization, and the role of timing and information in determining leader behavior. In particular, showing that leaders in more precarious situations are more likely to benefit from nationalization which, despite a potential loss of efficiency, increases their odds of remaining in power is an important corrective to the existing literature.

Aside from its theoretical contributions, the book also supports its argument with an impressive range of empirical approaches. The case studies particularly of Iran are masterful and present rich evidence based on deep archival research. The book also benefits from a multi-method approach that is rarely so well executed. The combination of thorough qualitative work and state-of-the-art statistical research leaves little doubt about the validity of Mahdavis argument. It also ties together diverse research strands in ways that yield new insights for a variety of different literatures. By crossing sub-disciplinary boundaries, Mahdavi has produced a theoretically innovative and empirically rigorous study that will leave a lasting impact on the discipline. Moreover, the book is highly readable and presents the argument and evidence in a logical way, anticipating potential criticism and offering responses in turn.

Which Resources Fit the Theory?

The main drawback of the book is that it relies too heavily on defining natural resources as oil. In fairness, this is the primary focus of the resource curse literature, and oil certainly provided the foundations for many of the most prominent authoritarian regimes of the 20th and early 21st centuries. Mahdavi discusses the limits of the applicability of his argument throughout the book, yet non-oil resources are not part of the core of his analysis, nor do they appear in the historical case studies. For example, natural gas and coal, like oil, have characteristics that make them highly profitable with little effort, which would make them fertile cases to compare with Mahdavis core oil cases. Reading the book, one wonders which resources would fit the theory, particularly since the universe of cases might be quite broad. If any extractive resource that creates these types of profits fit the scope of the theory for example, gemstones, lumber, or even highly capital-intensive forms of foreign direct investment then many of the nationalizations we see in authoritarian countries fit the same logic of ruler survival that we see behind the creation of national oil companies.

Perhaps more importantly, if the future is powered less by oil than by a distinct set of natural resources necessary for renewable energy and advanced energy storage, then the question of the flexibility of the theory becomes particularly important. Mahdavi alludes to the minerals that will power the clean energy transition, but it is unclear how distinct the rents from those minerals are from rents from oil or other fossil fuels. If the key natural resource characteristics underlying the argument in Power Grab are easily extractable rents in capital-intensive industries, then concentrated rents in lithium extraction should be no different from concentrated rents in oil production. This raises the question of whether leaders of countries with the minerals necessary for renewable energy technologies will take steps to nationalize those sectors as demand for their use grows, particularly if investment by foreign multinationals in those sectors increases. Would Muammar Qaddafis story in Libya have played out the same way if, instead of oil, he had had cobalt, as the rulers of the Congo currently possess? Given that the resources for the future energy transition are primarily minerals, would the causal mechanisms remain the same for them as for oil? Drawing clearer lines around the theory that Mahdavi offers will be useful for other scholars who attempt to adapt it to a wider range of cases. Moreover, it will clarify the predictive power of the theory and help to anticipate how authoritarian leaders in resource-rich countries will behave. That, in turn, will be crucial not only to the citizens of those countries, but also for understanding the future access that the rest of the world will have to the minerals that are essential for clean energy generation, as well as their availability and cost.

The Future of Resource-Fueled Authoritarianism

Beyond focusing on which resources fit Mahdavis theory, an additional concern is that of whether the theory is limited to a particular period of history. It is unclear whether the nationalizations of the past, which were often unilateral and carried out with little compensation from the host country, could be repeated in the future. Might not economic sanctions, deeper economic connectedness, and strengthened investment law (and enforcement) hamper such nationalizations? Hugo Chavez was certainly forceful in his efforts to consolidate Venezuelas state-owned oil company, Petrleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA), but he was met with substantial resistance from the United States (although he did receive support from China, Cuba, and other countries seeking to both bolster authoritarian rule in Latin America and gain access to Venezuelas oil production). Nationalization would thus appear to be a historically bound process.

On the other hand, with the world in a period of democratic backsliding and emboldened authoritarianism, leaders will surely do whatever it takes to stay in power, and natural resources present a readily available source of necessary revenue. Oil will continue to fuel the global economy for decades to come, providing a steady source of revenue for leaders who seek rents for cooptation of allies and repression of enemies. Indeed, if Mahdavis theory is applicable to a wider range of resources, then authoritarian rulers have more opportunities to secure rents to stay in power. A broader range of natural resources, particularly minerals such as copper, coal, zinc, cobalt, and lithium, may provide the financial support for more authoritarian leaders as those minerals increase in value. Moreover, with natural resource nationalism on the rise, leaders will likely have the support of their populations in expropriating foreign companies in the resource sector. Given the rise of global populism and the increased willingness of leaders both authoritarian and democratic to pander to their constituents, effective statecraft appears to matter less than short-term access to rents, whether from oil or other natural resources.

The Emergence of Authoritarian Challengers

An additional critique has to do with the dynamics of authoritarian rule and the first stage of the process of seizing power that Mahdavi examines. His argument focuses primarily on efforts to stay in power once leaders gain office. It focuses much less on how these leaders emerge in the first place and how they take their first steps to secure their grip on office. No doubt, leaders such as Qaddafi (and the many challengers who attempted to displace him) were at least partially motivated by the resource rents that allowed them to secure power. Yet, as Qaddafi consolidated power, he did so in a way that closed the door to future opponents, and much more effectively than his competitors and predecessors. More broadly, how much of the difference between successful and failed leaders had to do with the leaders themselves, versus external factors such as oil prices, resource discoveries, actions by the United States or other international actors, or, as Mahdavi emphasizes, the diffusion of ideas and policy practices? And if such outside factors matter, can national governments or international organizations take any actions to prevent authoritarian consolidation and provide greater room for opposition parties, and perhaps even transitions to democracy? One also wonders about the degree to which these same effects help incumbents in democracies to stay in power, although these concerns fall outside of the limits of the theory and motivating cases of Mahdavis book.

Such phenomena are important to study to the degree that they are, in turn, affected by the potential flows of future resource rents. Although Mahdavi discusses existing research on preexisting institutional quality by Thad Dunning and Victor Menaldo, leader emergence and challenges to existing rule, particularly in the periods before successful rulers have consolidated their power, remain something of a black box. This presource curse literature, drawing on a term coined by James Cust and the related booty futures argument put forth by Michael Ross, highlights the importance of the emergence of rulers as an essential component of understanding how those leaders consolidate power. A two-stage model, while complicating the analysis, would explain not only the consolidation of authoritarian power, but also the emergence and success or failure of challengers. Future work combining the theories of Cust, Ross, and Mahdavi has the potential to yield additional insights.

Conclusion

Mahdavi has written a fascinating book that outlines an innovative theory of resource-fueled authoritarian survival, supported with ample empirical evidence and impressive qualitative work. While I find the argument persuasive, I have offered a number of critiques about the limits of that theory. In particular, questions remain as to whether the theory travels to different sets of natural resources, different time periods, and even different types of regimes.

These critiques should not detract from Power Grabs contribution. Instead, they are a sign that the argument provides inspiration for future work that will build on its findings. Indeed, much research remains to be done in this area, particularly in testing the limits of the theory for other natural resources. In addition, I hope that other scholars will continue to examine the dynamics of authoritarian emergence, building on these findings about the consolidation of power and authoritarian survival. I look forward to seeing Mahdavis future work on these topics and I expect other scholars to join him in continuing to try to understand the relationship between natural resource rents and authoritarian rule.

His argument has crucial implications for the world that we will build in the coming decades. To the degree that we can further understand authoritarian regimes, I hope that we can use those insights to undermine autocratic rule and foster democracy. Moreover, ensuring access to the minerals that underlie the transition to clean energy is crucial for mitigating the worst effects of climate change and setting the global economy on a more sustainable path. Because they tie in so centrally to these two major global political challenges, the questions that Mahdavi engages with are not only theoretically important, but also of normative significance.

Alexander Xander Slaski is a postdoctoral fellow at Leiden University.His research focuses on the political economy of foreign direct investment, investment incentives, and currency flows in the developing world, particularly Latin America.His current book project examines how multinationalfirms shape regulatory policy in developing economies.His work has been published or is forthcoming in the Review of International Organizations, the Review of International Political Economy, and International Studies Quarterly.

Image: U.S. Air Force (Photo by Senior Airman Jordan Castelan)

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What Is Marine Collagen, and Should You Try It? – Everyday Health

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What Is Collagen and What Does Eating It Do for You?

Collagen is one of the major building blocks in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and blood vessels, explainsTaylor Wallace, PhD, a food scientist and adjunct professor in the department of nutrition and food studies at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. There are 28 types of collagen in the body. Research shows that we lose collagen naturally due to aging and other factors, so the idea that we could replace that lost collagen with external sources sounds plausible.

Because collagen is part of the supporting structures in skin, a lack of it can contribute to wrinkles and sagging skin, says Melina Jampolis, MD, a board-certified physician and nutrition specialist in Valley Village, California, and author of Spice Up, Live Long.

RELATED: Best Vitamins for Hair, Skin, and Nails

While collagen treatments got their start in skin care, the protein is not well suited for topical applications because it is too large to penetrate the skin, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. This is why some formulations use collagen peptides, or hydrolyzed collagen, which has been partially broken down.

This is similar to what happens when you eat collagen. The protein is broken down into amino acids that circulate in your blood, and some experts theorize that these circulating by-products of collagen may signal skin to rev up new collagen production, says Dr. Zeichner. Whether this is accurate, and how effective it is, is still unclear.

A review published in March 2020 in Nutrientsfound that collagen peptides act as antioxidants to quelch damaging free radicals and inflammation (both of which are associated with chronic diseases and aging) in skin cells. In another small study, 50 women ages 45 to 60 took 10 grams (g) of a marine collagen powder supplement for 12 weeks and had a 35 percent reduction in wrinkles compared with a group who took a placebo powder, as was reported in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in March 2021. Measures of skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness also improved.

In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 120 people took a supplement containing hydrolyzed fish collagen, vitamins, antioxidants, and compounds like glucosamine and had an increase in skin elasticity by 40 percent compared with a placebo, as well as a self-reported 43 percent reduction in joint pain and 39 percent better joint mobility, according to anarticle published in September 2018 in Nutrition Research. Its difficult to know whether fish collagen alone was responsible for these results. Currently, there is a lack of human trials analyzing the potential benefits of marine collagen on joint health or arthritis.

The collagen you hear about packaged in collagen powders and supplements is traditionally made from bovine (cow) sources, while marine collagen comes from fish. Many people are trying to move away from animal products like red meat, and they know fish is healthier, so it seems like a better source of collagen to the consumer compared with cow or pig skin and bones, says Dr. Jampolis.

Whether marine collagen is actually any healthier is still a source of debate, however. At a chemical level, theres little difference between the two. Collagen molecules themselves are structurally similar, regardless of the source they are derived from, says Zeichner.

There is some evidence that different sources of ingestible collagen may act upon different types of collagen in the body (remember, there are 28 kinds). Bovine collagen has been found to increase collagen types 1 and 3, the primary kinds that make up skin, says Dr. Wallace. Marine collagen increases types 1 and 2, the kinds found in cartilage, in the structures of your eyes, and within vertebral discs, according to a review published in April 2020 in Marine Drugs.

Because marine collagen supplements are a newer product type than bovine ones, there is less research on them and a need for longer-term clinical studies. Id like to see a head-to-head comparison of marine versus bovine collagen to specifically recommend one over the other, says Jampolis.

RELATED: 20 Ways to Preserve and Boost the Collagen in Your Face

Marine collagen does have some other known advantages, however. Notably, it is a far more sustainable source of protein than other kinds. A paper published in April 2020 in Marine Drugs notes, Marine organisms and their wastes can be a sustainable, eco-friendly source of collagen.

The paper also points out that marine collagen may appeal to people who restrict meat from their diets for religious, cultural, or moral reasons. Several major religions restrict consumption of pork and beef, for instance, and people who follow vegetarian diets may not wish to consume animal products but are okay with eating fish.

Additionally, the Marine Drugs paper points out that some people avoid animal-derived collagen out of fear that it may potentially transmit diseases, such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease.

RELATED: What Are Organ Complex Supplements, and Will They Make You Healthier?

If you are allergic to fish, you should absolutely not take marine collagen. Also, since collagen is a protein, you should consider this a protein supplement. Depending on the brand, two scoops might contain 11 g of protein. If you have severe kidney disease and your doctor has recommended limiting protein, then youll need to count the grams of protein consumed from marine collagen powders or capsules, says Jampolis.

Its natural to want to see the benefits of any supplement or diet change right away, but youll have to wait some time. With regular consumption, Jampolis says that you may see skin benefits in 8 to 12 weeks, enough time for skin to repair and turn over.

If you want to try marine collagen, follow the instructions on the label for the dosage. Also, its always best to talk to your doctor first before taking any supplement to make sure that its safe for your individual health concerns. Look for trusted brands that use wild-caught fish and are third-party verified, which ensures that what youre taking is free from contaminants and contains the ingredients that are listed.

RELATED: Which Collagen Sources Should You Try?

No. Two scoops 12 g or a half ounce are 45 calories. While excess intake of anything can make you gain weight, its unlikely that adding marine collagen in normally consumed amounts will cause weight gain, says Jampolis.

Marine collagen supplements differ from eating fresh fish. Youll find collagen in fish skin, bones, heads, scales, fins, and entrails, as well as fish cartilage, notes a review published in September 2020 in the journal Materials. These are parts youre typically not consuming unless you eat small, whole fish (such as sardines, anchovies, or mackerel). In that instance, youll consume higher amounts of collagen compared with eating a regular fish fillet, says Wallace.

Overall, consuming a varied diet filled with whole foods is the best way to take in a range of nutrients that will support healthy skin and joints. Its unclear whether collagen supplements are superior to eating a well-balanced diet with adequate protein, says Zeichner.

If youre looking to maximize your intake of collagen and cost is not a factor these supplements can be pricey consider adding marine collagen to your existing diet. Supplements can offer a higher dose. They are available as a powder that you mix into liquid, like a smoothie or coffee, or as capsules. Ensure that youre choosing hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are already broken down, making them easily digested by the body, says Jampolis.And compare the amount of collagen peptides in a serving of capsules versus powder, as they may differ.

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The circular economy isn’t just a zero-waste goal it should be critical to Canada’s action on climate – Corporate Knights Magazine

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Before business and government leaders convened last week in New York City for Climate Week, the United Nations warned that emissions pledges are falling unacceptably short of the ambition required to avert climate catastrophe. As the natural world reaches irreversible tipping points and we rebuild from the COVID-19 pandemic, the circular economy presents an unparalleled opportunity.

Simply put, the circular economy is a model in which waste and pollution are designed out of the system. The idea takes inspiration from the elegance of natures cycles and the wisdom of Indigenous worldviews. Put into action, every object we use is either refurbished, disassembled to be reused, recycled into a new high-value product, or composted. When virgin materials are needed, regenerative and sustainably managed resources are prioritized. Examples of the circular economy are now emerging everywhere: from major companies repairing electronics and individuals mending clothes to buildings designed for disassembly and materials reuse.

While best known for their waste-curbing impacts, circular strategies could provide an invaluable solution by tackling the largely neglected 70% of global emissions connected to all the materials involved in our consumer society.

A report released earlier this year by non-profit Circle Economy found that doubling the globes circularity could cut global greenhouse gas emissions by 39% from 2019 levels, limiting global warming to below 2C. And, the benefits would go further: reductions in the consumption of virgin materials would help alleviate pollution, ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss.

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development has predicted that accelerating demand for finite natural resources will lead to future shortages, rising prices and supply chain interruptions. This could put $4.5 trillion of global economic growth at risk by 2030, according to global consultancy Accenture Strategy. Some governments have taken note. Fast-moving countries, led by the European Union members, China, and Japan, are positioning themselves to shield their citizens from these risks through comprehensive strategies and policy frameworks that support resource efficiency, new business models and supply chain collaborations.

Successful but isolated examples of the circular economy in our homes, communities and businesses now need to be scaled urgently, and expanded to our whole economic system.

Small business owners and large corporate leaders alike are also seeing a strong rationale for reducing waste. After all, there are greater greenhouse gas emissions associated with using predominantly virgin materials, and recycling or reusing those materials after the end of their first life reduces the amount businesses pay for landfill. Others see opportunity in new business models such as product-as-a-service. In these, customers pay for a membership-based service instead of actual products. Communauto, Evo and Modo are a few Canadian examples of companies that offer on-demand access to fleets of cars as an alternative to individual car ownership. In South Africa, Bushveld Energy leases the vanadium used in batteries and fully reclaims and reuses the mineral at the end of battery life. Every industry and sector now needs to consider its plan to compete in a world that demands longer-lived materials and products that are reusable, repairable, recyclable, re-manufacturable and regenerative.

Examples of the circular economy in our homes, communities and businesses are, however, still isolated. They need to be scaled urgently and expanded to our whole economic system.

This months World Circular Economy Forum, co-hosted by the Government of Canada, highlighted the rich universe of possibilities to deepen emission cuts under the Paris Agreement. It profiled a bounty of circular solutions for materials as diverse as plastics, minerals and metals, textiles, and food, across sectors as varied as construction, manufacturing, mobility and finance. It featured creativity from many, including multinationals, start-ups, social enterprises and community groups.

As the shift to a more circular economy gains traction worldwide, its past time for Canada, too, to develop a national circular economy strategy that should fully reinforce our climate goals. In a rapidly changing global context of intersecting crises, transitioning to a circular economy can boost prosperity and keep Canada competitive globally while dramatically lessening environmental impacts.

If we do this right, and learn from past mistakes, we can redesign the economy to serve all citizens rather than just the privileged few. While we didnt collectively choose the inequities, economic uncertainty, and environmental issues that we face, the economic and social systems are ours to design.

Stephanie Cairns is the director of circular economy at Smart Prosperity Institute, and an established leader who has focused on environment, economy and fiscal policy research initiatives for 25 years.

Alice Irene Whittaker is a writer and environmental communications leader who writes and speaks about the circular economy. She is the director of marketing and communications at Smart Prosperity Institute and The Natural Step Canada.

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Bolstered by a Political Year and the Economy, BIA Forecasts Local Broadcast TV Ad Revenues to Increase By 26.5 Percent in 2022 – Business Wire

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CHANTILLY, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BIA Advisory Services estimates the local broadcast TV industry in 2022 will generate $21 billion in advertising revenue, with $19.3 billion in over-the-air (OTA) revenue and $1.7 billion in digital. This estimate indicates an increase of 26.5 percent over 2021 for the industry. Previewing the new forecast today in an address before the TVB Forward Conference, Tom Buono, founder and chief executive officer of BIA Advisory Services, explained drivers behind the forecast that include a long and significant political advertising season, growth in TVs digital advertising opportunities, and positive economic signs for key verticals.

There are many factors that go into our forecasting, said Buono. We take into consideration economic trends, consumer behavior, growth in digital ad spending and the local advertising environment. These points have all shifted in an unorthodox way since the pandemic first hit and are now affecting television viewing habits and local advertising spending.

Buono said that BIAs analysts saw a V-shaped recovery in local advertising from 2019 to 2021 from a high of $148b and then about a $10 billion dip in 2020 to a close return in 2021 to pre-pandemic levels. Over the long-term the expectation is for local advertising in the U.S. to continue in a positive direction barring any new disruptions. BIA is now estimating a 3.4 percent compound annual growth range over this projected period.

The most significant factor going into 2022 for local broadcast TV, Buono explains, is that political advertising spending will be extremely strong for a significant portion of the year. BIA expects next year to rival 2020 and even experience further expansion by 2024. The combined forecasted local TV spend for political is $3.4 billion (OTA + Digital + OTT). An estimated 44.8 percent share of local media political advertising will go to OTA broadcast TV alone. The top five markets for next years political advertising will be New York City, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Philadelphia.

Growth in OTT is also significant. With many Americans continuing to work from home and shift their viewing habits, over-the-top (OTT) has become more of a focus for many broadcasters. According to BIAs estimate, OTT ad spending is expected to reach $1.17 billion in 2021, $1.64 billion in 2022, and will surpass $2 billion by 2024.

While the total local advertising trend in the U.S. is positive, its imperative to note that most of the growth is happening on the digital side, which includes mobile, online, and OTT ad channels. We expect local digital to exceed local traditional in 2023 (due in large part to continuing declines in print media advertising), making cross-platform selling even more important in the future, said Buono.

Twenty-twenty took its toll on many of the key verticals. Leisure and recreation, auto and retail were hit especially hard. As Buono explains, many verticals have improved in 2021 from a lower base in 2020 and continue to show improvement for next year. For TV OTA, key verticals increasing their spending ad dollars in 2022 will be education, legal services, health, leisure and recreation, and political. Buono advises that possible target categories for the broadcast TV industry include supermarkets, wireless carriers, quick service restaurants (QSRs) and hospitals.

In early September, BIA released its 2022 U.S. Local Advertising Forecast for 16 media, including local broadcast television, and 96 business sub-verticals. The five-year forecast is available for all 210 local television markets and is based on a proprietary forecasting methodology of the local advertising marketplace. Forecast data is delivered by the local advertising intelligence dashboard, BIA ADVantage. For subscription details, email sales@bia.com.

About BIA Advisory Services

BIA Advisory Services is the leading authority for data-centered insights, analysis, strategic consulting, and valuation services for the local media industry. Since 1983, BIA has been a valuable resource for traditional and digital media companies, brands and agencies, the financial and legal community serving media and telecom, as well as the FCC and other government agencies. Today, we offer comprehensive local market advertising intelligence in our BIA ADVantageTM service to help clients discover the path to their best opportunities. Learn more about our offerings at http://www.bia.com.

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One-Size-Fits-All Approach to Climate Change Will Not Work for Cameroonians; A lot of energy projects need to be developed – Africanews English

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The world is mandating a one-size-fits-all approach to climate change that doesnt take into consideration Cameroons right to make the most of its low-carbon natural gas resources or the continents need to eradicate energy poverty. The African Energy Chamber (EnergyChamber.org) welcomes an honest and open discussion where Africans have a say in which functional solutions are best for Africa. At the African Energy Week, organized by the African Energy Chamber in partnership with South Africas Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, the Chamber calls for a balanced response to the Cameroons vulnerability to climate change.

Cameroon is a leading sub-Saharan producer of crude oil, with total daily liquid hydrocarbon production averaging 76,000 barrels in 2017. That year, crude petroleum was our largest export, at $1.34 billion. Refined petroleum wasnt far behind, at $396 million.

Aware that our onshore fields are mature, we have been diversifying our economy. Gold and diamond mining is increasing in our northern and eastern regions, although on a small scale. In addition, Cameroon produces raw construction materials, including soils, clay, and straw, and these make local housing costs more reasonable.

Although these sectors are important to our future, many of the expectations we have for growing our economy relate to natural gas and, more specifically, liquefied natural gas, or LNG, as it is widely known. This is something we look forward to talking more about at African Energy Week, where we will share our experiences and outlook.

Cameroons natural gas reserves are estimated at 4.7 billion cubic feet. To put that in perspective, we are number 48 of 99 countries with proven gas reserves, with about 0.07% of the worlds total.

While that might not sound like much compared to, say, the United States with its 322 trillion cubic feet of reserves, LNG offers considerable potential for Cameroon and the world.

Clean and plentiful, natural gas and LNG are considered essential to the energy transition. Natural gas produces far fewer emissions compared to coal and diesel, and it can provide the power to support wind, solar, and hydroelectricity. The projected long-term growth for LNG is tremendous; McKinsey suggests demand will grow 3.4% per year to 2035, and more than 200 million tons of new capacity will be required by 2050.

Thanks to an agreement with Cameroons National Hydrocarbons Corp., French energy company Perenco and gas processor Golar LNG Ltd. are already producing 1.2 million tons of LNG per year from a floating LNG (FLNG) vessel deployed in Cameroonian waters off the coast of Kribi, as well as 30,000 tons of domestic gas for Cameroonian households, and 5,000 barrels of condensate per day.

The companies recently announced plans to increase LNG output by 17% in 2022. And thats just the start: By 2026, LNG output from Golars Hilli Episeyo FLNG facility is expected to reach 1.6 million tons after the drilling of additional wells.

The development of the Etinde field will add to that figure. Cameroons second LNG project, the Etinde FLNG facility should be operational within four years and will have the capacity to receive, process, store, and offload 30,000 barrels of condensate per day. The project is expected to add as many as 400 local jobs for skilled workers and 3,000 more indirect jobs.

Jobs, domestic energy, and economic growth, all from a low-carbon resource along the shores of our homeland.

Enabling Environment for a Transition

While Cameroon needs to develop its natural resources, it is important to pay attention on having an enabling environment to do business and also improve investor confidence and dealmaking. The BEAC Forex Regulations does not help and will just hurt the country just as climate activist would.

The Chamber believes that this regulation will contribute to the growing challenge of energy poverty, corruption and the increasing role of bureaucrats in business affairs. The question is simple, why add more burdens and barriers especially at a time when we have to grapple with energy transition and difficulties in funding oil and gas projects. As previously stated by NJ Ayuk, our Executive Chairman, Bureaucrats should not be picking winners and losers. It is bad for free markets and you can love jobs and hate those who create jobs he stated.

Businesses, everyday people and people on the front lines need to be protected from this and the Chamber is committed to seeing it through. Our mission here is loud and clear: we are dedicated to being resolute in this provocation from BEAC.

Why would anyone want to deny us this opportunity?

Cameroon is committed to the fight against climate change. With the vast majority of our citizens working in agriculture, we understand how climate change can affect livelihoods. As we move toward our goal of becoming an emergent country by 2035, we have already taken serious and significant steps to decrease our greenhouse gas emissions by 32% through the use of renewable energy, including solar panels and biogas. We are integrating sustainable practices into savannah management and rehabilitating degraded lands. We are also focusing on waste management and recycling.

Weve come a long way. We know theres a long way to go to curb the effects of climate change.

But we also know that to fulfil our potential and ultimate destiny, Cameroon cant turn its back on job-producing industries. We are leveraging our resource wealth in the best way possible, through the development of natural gas. By taking aim at all oil and gas companies, Western climate activists threaten our future. Blanket decisions made by the West without engaging African leaders are unfair, unwarranted, and a throwback to colonialism. Some of the continents countries are carbon sinks; others face imminent harm from climate change. How could one approach be appropriate or equitable across the board?

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, said that demonizing energy companies is not constructive and ignoring the structural role that carbon-based fuels have in todays society distorts the public debate. Bringing energy companies, governments, and civil society groups to find functional solutions will achieve much more.

We cannot love jobs and hate those who create them. Cameroon can address its climate change challenges and use its energy resources to boost our economy.

Africanews provides content from APO Group as a service to its readers, but does not edit the articles it publishes.

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