Monthly Archives: May 2024

7 Hidden Gem Islands In The Caribbean Perfect For Retirement – TheTravel

Posted: May 29, 2024 at 2:09 am

Summary

Discovering the perfect Caribbean islands for retirement is like uncovering a hidden treasure trove. While some islands bask in the spotlight of tourist fame, others remain quietly tucked away, offering a serene and idyllic haven for those seeking a peaceful retirement escape.

These hidden gem islands boast pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and a laid-back lifestyle that beckons retirees to embrace the tranquility of island living. What sets them apart is their natural beauty, well-developed amenities, and even a low cost of living in some cases, as several of them are relatively affordable Caribbean islands for retirement.

From secluded coves to charming villages, each of these Caribbean gems holds the promise of a blissful retirement amid nature's splendor, with all the comforts and affordability retirees desire.

This list of Caribbean islands is ordered from the most to the least expensive monthly cost of living. With reasonable costs of living, top-notch healthcare facilities, low crime rates, and a plethora of senior-friendly activities, these hidden gems in the Caribbean are perfect for retirement.

Canouan island. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Canouan, a gem in the Grenadines, has a rich history intertwined with European colonization and the Caribbean slave trade. Today, it's known for its exclusive resorts and breathtaking natural beauty.

Life on Canouan is serene and laid-back, with a strong focus on luxury tourism. The beaches, such as Godahl Beach, boast powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Retirees can indulge in world-class dining, pamper themselves at luxurious spas, or tee off at the island's stunning golf courses. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the lush interior and ascend Mt. Royal for panoramic views of the surrounding islands.

Canouan offers retirees an exclusive and tranquil haven, away from the hustle and bustle of more popular Caribbean destinations. With its luxurious resorts, serene beaches, and focus on upscale amenities, retirees can enjoy a pampered and secluded lifestyle amid breathtaking natural beauty. The island's emphasis on privacy and relaxation makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful retirement escape.

Healthcare and Infrastructure

Monthly Rent

Starting at $289

Why Retirees Like It

Serene atmosphere, luxurious amenities, beautiful beaches, excellent water activities

Local Attractions

Sandy Lane Yacht Club, the Caribbean's largest living coral reef, Godahl Beach, an 18-hole golf course, Mt. Royal hiking

Just a short 17-mile journey east of Puerto Rico lies the charming island of Culebra. Nestled along a gently curving coastline, Culebra Island offers a laid-back atmosphere and stunning powdery white beaches. Stretching across seven miles, these pristine shores provide uninterrupted vistas of Puerto Rico's coastline.

Culebra's history is marked by indigenous Tano settlements and later Spanish colonization. Today, it's celebrated for being one of the most beautiful destinations in Puerto Rico, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Life in Culebra is laid-back, with a strong sense of community and a focus on sustainable tourism.

Flamenco Beach, often ranked among the world's best beaches, offers soft sands and turquoise waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and sea turtles.

Visitors can also hike to the historic Culebrita Lighthouse for stunning views of the island and surrounding seas. Culebra's tranquil ambiance, pristine beaches, and scenic beauty make it an ideal hidden gem for retirees seeking a peaceful and picturesque retirement destination.

Healthcare and Infrastructure

Monthly Rent

Starting at $570

Why Retirees Like It

Tranquil environment, pristine beaches, laid-back lifestyle, warm climate

Local Attractions

Flamenco Beach, Carlos Rosario Beach, Culebrita Island, Culebra National Wildlife Refuge

Brown wooden house from seashore in Bluefields, Jamaica

For those craving solitude away from the usual Jamaican hotspots like Montego Bay or Negril, Bluefields is the answer. Tucked away on the south coast, this tranquil haven offers a quieter retreat, where the soundtrack is more likely to be the gentle hum of cicadas than loud parties.

Dive tours, fishing trips, and glass-bottom boat cruises are still on offer, but here, you can also explore the lush landscape and learn about organic farming at the Bluefields Organic Fruit Farm. Don't miss a chance to mingle with locals at Bluefields Beach Park, where families picnic, reggae music fills the air, and you'll find a monument honoring reggae legend Peter Tosh, who once called this place home.

Retirement in Bluefields is a retreat to a simpler way of life, where the worries of the world melt away in the warm Caribbean breeze. Surrounded by lush hills and serene beaches, you can spend your days exploring nature trails, sampling local cuisine, and immersing yourself in the rich culture of Jamaica.

The slower pace of life allows you to truly savor each moment and connect with the surrounding community. Whether you're relaxing on the beach, learning about organic farming, or dancing to the rhythms of reggae music, Bluefields offers a peaceful and fulfilling retirement experience unlike any other.

Healthcare and Infrastructure

Monthly Rent

Starting at $318

Why Retirees Like It

Lush surroundings, relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, authentic Jamaican culture

Local Attractions

Bluefields Beach Park, Font Hill Nature Preserve, Belmont Botanical Gardens, Bluefields Bay

Tucked away in the Leeward Islands, Nevis is one of the many affordable yet scenic spots to retire in the Caribbean. As the smaller sibling of the dual-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis, it is famed for its dormant volcano, misty mountains, and Nevis Peak standing over 975 meters (3,200 feet) tall.

Nevis has a storied past as a sugar-producing colony and was once a hub of the transatlantic slave trade. Today, it's renowned for its historical charm and unspoiled natural beauty. Life on Nevis is tranquil and unhurried, with an affordable cost of living, a strong emphasis on ecotourism, and a focus on the preservation of the island's heritage.

Pinney's Beach, stretching along the island's western coast, offers golden sands and calm waters perfect for swimming and beach climbing. Visitors can explore the island's colonial-era plantations, hike through lush rainforests, or summit Nevis Peak for breathtaking views of neighboring islands.

Moreover, St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the safe, low-crime islands in the Caribbean offering security and tranquility, thanks to its stable governance and low crime rates. Nevis' tranquil ambiance, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal hidden gem for retirees seeking a serene and authentic Caribbean retirement destination.

Healthcare and Infrastructure

Monthly Rent

Starting at $511

Why Retirees Like It

Historic charm, friendly community, scenic beauty, outdoor activities

Local Attractions

Nevis Peak, Pinney's Beach, Charlestown, Botanical Gardens of Nevis, Alexander Hamilton birthplace

Caye Caulker is a slice of paradise where cars are nowhere to be found, and bustling crowds are but a distant memory. Instead, picture yourself cruising around on bikes or golf carts, indulging in laid-back beachfront dining, and immersing yourself in the island's vibrant Rastafarian culture.

With the backdrop of North America's largest reef system, diving and snorkeling are top-notch here, while tropical mangroves offer birdwatching heaven. Caye Caulker's history is rooted in its indigenous Maya roots and later British colonial rule. Today, it's celebrated for its laid-back vibe and stunning marine biodiversity.

Retirement on Caye Caulker is like stepping into a postcard-perfect paradise every day. The absence of cars and bustling crowds creates a serene environment perfect for relaxation and reflection. You can spend your days snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, birdwatching in tropical mangroves, or immersing yourself in the island's vibrant culture.

With its small size and close-knit community, Caye Caulker offers a sense of belonging and camaraderie that is rare to find elsewhere. For retirees seeking a laid-back lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty and warm hospitality, Caye Caulker is the perfect hidden gem.

Healthcare and Infrastructure

Monthly Rent

Starting at $365

Why Retirees Like It

Slow-paced lifestyle, vibrant local culture, stunning marine life, affordable cost of living

Local Attractions

The Split, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, Caye Caulker Forest Reserve

Just a quick 45-minute boat ride from Cartagena, you'll stumble upon the Rosario Islands, a cluster of 30 tiny islets hiding away in the Caribbean. Every day, boats whisk visitors off from the mainland for adventures like scuba diving, snorkeling, or simply lazing on the beach.

The Rosario Islands have a diverse history shaped by indigenous settlements and Spanish colonization. Today, they're revered for their pristine beaches and rich marine biodiversity. Life on the Rosario Islands is idyllic and secluded, with a focus on eco-friendly tourism and the preservation of the region's natural beauty.

Playa Blanca, one of the islands' most famous beaches, boasts powdery white sands and tranquil turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can explore colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life, indulge in fresh seafood at beachside restaurants, or hike through lush mangrove forests in search of hidden lagoons and waterfalls.

With its proximity to Cartagena, retirees have easy access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities while still enjoying the seclusion of island living. The laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal hidden gem for retirees seeking peace and natural beauty.

Healthcare and Infrastructure

Monthly Rent

Starting at $297

Why Retirees Like It

Crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, tranquil setting, excellent snorkeling and diving

Local Attractions

Isla Grande, Playa Blanca, Gorgona Island, San Martin de Pajarales Aquarium

Dominica's history is marked by indigenous Carib settlements and European colonization, shaping its unique culture and heritage. Today, it's renowned for its untouched rainforests and natural hot springs.

Life in Dominica is rugged and adventurous, with a strong emphasis on ecotourism and outdoor exploration. It is also considered one of the safest Caribbean islands for solo female travelers, as it stands out with a crime rate of 21 per 100,000, low rates of violent crime, and a safe atmosphere for visitors to explore. In fact, this low figure makes it one of the safest Caribbean islands in terms of crime rates, making it appealing to retirees.

The island's beaches, such as Champagne Beach and Batibou Beach, offer volcanic black sands and dramatic coastal scenery ideal for hiking and beachcombing. Visitors can hike to hidden waterfalls, dive among vibrant coral reefs, or trek through the island's dense jungles in search of rare wildlife and botanical wonders.

Known as the "Nature Isle" of the Caribbean, Dominica boasts miles of enchanting hiking trails, lush tropical rainforests, and volcanic black sand beaches. Dominica's unspoiled natural beauty, diverse ecosystem, and authentic cultural experiences make it an ideal hidden gem for retirees seeking an eco-friendly and tranquil retirement haven.

Healthcare and Infrastructure

Monthly Rent

Starting at $393

Why Retirees Like It

Lush rainforests, unspoiled natural beauty, eco-friendly lifestyle, peaceful environment

Local Attractions

Morne Trois Pitons National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Trafalgar Falls, Boiling Lake, Champagne Reef

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7 Hidden Gem Islands In The Caribbean Perfect For Retirement - TheTravel

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products – Rockdale Newton Citizen

Posted: at 2:09 am

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products - Rockdale Newton Citizen

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products – Napoleon Northwest Signal

Posted: at 2:09 am

By Stephen Beech via SWNS

Seaweed clogging up the Caribbean could be used to produce sustainable goods, say scientists.

British researchers have been working to track the spread of sargassum which is wreaking environmental havoc as well as causing economic damage across the region.

The huge mass stranded seaweed blocks fishing boats, threatens tourism and disrupts turtle nesting sites, reefs and mangroves.

It also releases toxic gas which impacts human health as well as damaging electrical equipment.

First reported by Christopher Columbus in the 15th Century, floating mats of sargassum have long been present in the North Atlantic.

But since 2011, a giant floating mass has established between West Africa and South America, and increased in size to form the great Atlantic sargassum belt a macroalgal bloom more than 5,000 miles long that is even visible from space and estimated to weigh 35 million tons.

Scientists believe the massive blooms of sargassum are thought to be down to nutrient pollution and warming seas.

Vast quantities of the seaweed end up in landfill each year as it becomes a global environmental issue.

Photo by cottonbro studio via Pexels

Researchers from the Universities of York and Southampton, alongside colleagues from the University of the West Indies, set out to learn more about sargassum to unlock its potential to be used in the production of sustainable products.

But the seaweed's possible uses are limited due to its high arsenic content.

Study first author Dr. Carla Machado said: The small quantities of sargassum that used to wash ashore in the Caribbean provided a habitat for turtles, crabs and fish and contributed to beach formation as it decomposed.

"But the vast sargassum blooms of the past decade are a global problem that will continue to grow and have a major impact in the affected countries."

Dr. Machado, of York University, added: "This research project has brought together international researchers specializing in biomass composition and satellite imaging to track, sample and study sargassum, providing crucial new knowledge of this little-understood macroalgae.

She explained that for a biomass to be utilized, it needs to be "consistent" in its composition to ensures that it can be processed efficiently and behave predictably during production.

The research team tested different processing methods for the seaweed - including shade-drying or freezing - and found the protein content of the seaweed stayed the same.

But the method of processing did affect levels of other components such as alginate, which can be processed for many applications, including biomaterials.

The researchers collected samples of sargassum in Jamaica throughout 2021, which coincided with the April 2021 eruption of La Soufrire volcano on the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent.

Using drift patterns, the team calculated that the sargassum samples they collected in August 2021 would have spent around 50 days exposed to ash from the eruption.

They discovered that seaweed that had likely been in contact with volcanic ash contained less arsenic, but had accumulated other elements including nickel and zinc.

Sargassum in Jamaica in August 2021.

Lead author Dr. Thierry Tonon, also of York University, said: Understanding sargassums response to environmental conditions is crucial for unlocking its biology and potential value.

With the great sargassum belt also receiving additional nutrients from Sahara dust that blows across the Atlantic, huge quantities of the seaweed washing up on coastlines looks set to become the new normal.

The team say more work needs to be done to increase understanding about sargassum and how it is going to behave in future.

Dr. Robert Marsh, of the University of Southampton said: "The sargassum beaching around Jamaica in late summer 2021 carried distinct traces of the volcanic ash that settled upon it around four months earlier, just to the east of St Vincent.

"This novel volcanic tag confirmed that sargassum arrives each summer at Jamaican beaches after a months-long journey drifting with currents from the central tropical Atlantic.

Dr. Hazel Oxenford, from the University of the West Indies, said: Volcanic ash collected in my garden from the St Vincent eruption was used to determine its chemical signature.

"Being able to detect those components in sargassum after it travelled more than 1,700 kilometers across the Caribbean to Jamaica was exciting.

"It confirmed our predicted transport pathway for sargassum, showed that the seaweed lives for at least four months and demonstrates the marine connectivity across the region.

Professor Mona Webber, also from the University of the West Indies, added: It is very important for Caribbean Islands being affected by the sargassum inundation to be able to benefit from its valorization.

"Understanding how the sargassum we collect in Jamaica has changed en route to our shores and factors that could affect especially the arsenic content, will propel us towards safe use of the algal biomass.

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products - Napoleon Northwest Signal

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Ben Bouldin to head of Royal Caribbean in China – – Cruise Adviser

Posted: at 2:09 am

Ben Bouldin, the vice president of EMEA for Royal Caribbean International, is take up the role of president of Royal Caribbean International, China.

He will oversee the sales, marketing and commercial teams in his new position, the line said.

Zinan Liu, the current president for the China and North Asia Pacific region, will continue in his role as chairman of Royal Caribbean International, Asia.

Bouldin joined Royal Caribbean in 2014 as director of sales for the UK and Ireland and has held his most recent role since 2020. He and his family will move to China in August.

I am excited to have the opportunity to lead the team in China, he said. It is a significant chance for me, both personally and professionally, and Im honoured that Royal Caribbean sees me as the right candidate to steer and grow the business in such a key region for the brand.

Im looking forward to moving to China at the end of August and getting to know my new team.

He added: I will be leaving the EMEA business in a strong position with a fantastic leadership team. Having dedicated my 11 years at Royal Caribbean to this region, Ill always remain proud of the team and my industry colleagues in EMEA.

Angie Stephen, senior vice-president of international, said: The team in China is at a pivotal point as the brand returns to delivering memorable vacations in a market that has been a focus of ours for more than a decade.

There is so much in store as we continue to push the envelope as the top cruise line in China, and I know Bens experience across a wide range of markets will bolster the teams operations, ideas and ambitions for the future.

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Ben Bouldin to head of Royal Caribbean in China - - Cruise Adviser

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products – Lenoir News-Topic

Posted: at 2:09 am

By Stephen Beech via SWNS

Seaweed clogging up the Caribbean could be used to produce sustainable goods, say scientists.

British researchers have been working to track the spread of sargassum which is wreaking environmental havoc as well as causing economic damage across the region.

The huge mass stranded seaweed blocks fishing boats, threatens tourism and disrupts turtle nesting sites, reefs and mangroves.

It also releases toxic gas which impacts human health as well as damaging electrical equipment.

First reported by Christopher Columbus in the 15th Century, floating mats of sargassum have long been present in the North Atlantic.

But since 2011, a giant floating mass has established between West Africa and South America, and increased in size to form the great Atlantic sargassum belt a macroalgal bloom more than 5,000 miles long that is even visible from space and estimated to weigh 35 million tons.

Scientists believe the massive blooms of sargassum are thought to be down to nutrient pollution and warming seas.

Vast quantities of the seaweed end up in landfill each year as it becomes a global environmental issue.

Photo by cottonbro studio via Pexels

Researchers from the Universities of York and Southampton, alongside colleagues from the University of the West Indies, set out to learn more about sargassum to unlock its potential to be used in the production of sustainable products.

But the seaweed's possible uses are limited due to its high arsenic content.

Study first author Dr. Carla Machado said: The small quantities of sargassum that used to wash ashore in the Caribbean provided a habitat for turtles, crabs and fish and contributed to beach formation as it decomposed.

"But the vast sargassum blooms of the past decade are a global problem that will continue to grow and have a major impact in the affected countries."

Dr. Machado, of York University, added: "This research project has brought together international researchers specializing in biomass composition and satellite imaging to track, sample and study sargassum, providing crucial new knowledge of this little-understood macroalgae.

She explained that for a biomass to be utilized, it needs to be "consistent" in its composition to ensures that it can be processed efficiently and behave predictably during production.

The research team tested different processing methods for the seaweed - including shade-drying or freezing - and found the protein content of the seaweed stayed the same.

But the method of processing did affect levels of other components such as alginate, which can be processed for many applications, including biomaterials.

The researchers collected samples of sargassum in Jamaica throughout 2021, which coincided with the April 2021 eruption of La Soufrire volcano on the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent.

Using drift patterns, the team calculated that the sargassum samples they collected in August 2021 would have spent around 50 days exposed to ash from the eruption.

They discovered that seaweed that had likely been in contact with volcanic ash contained less arsenic, but had accumulated other elements including nickel and zinc.

Sargassum in Jamaica in August 2021.

Lead author Dr. Thierry Tonon, also of York University, said: Understanding sargassums response to environmental conditions is crucial for unlocking its biology and potential value.

With the great sargassum belt also receiving additional nutrients from Sahara dust that blows across the Atlantic, huge quantities of the seaweed washing up on coastlines looks set to become the new normal.

The team say more work needs to be done to increase understanding about sargassum and how it is going to behave in future.

Dr. Robert Marsh, of the University of Southampton said: "The sargassum beaching around Jamaica in late summer 2021 carried distinct traces of the volcanic ash that settled upon it around four months earlier, just to the east of St Vincent.

"This novel volcanic tag confirmed that sargassum arrives each summer at Jamaican beaches after a months-long journey drifting with currents from the central tropical Atlantic.

Dr. Hazel Oxenford, from the University of the West Indies, said: Volcanic ash collected in my garden from the St Vincent eruption was used to determine its chemical signature.

"Being able to detect those components in sargassum after it travelled more than 1,700 kilometers across the Caribbean to Jamaica was exciting.

"It confirmed our predicted transport pathway for sargassum, showed that the seaweed lives for at least four months and demonstrates the marine connectivity across the region.

Professor Mona Webber, also from the University of the West Indies, added: It is very important for Caribbean Islands being affected by the sargassum inundation to be able to benefit from its valorization.

"Understanding how the sargassum we collect in Jamaica has changed en route to our shores and factors that could affect especially the arsenic content, will propel us towards safe use of the algal biomass.

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products - Lenoir News-Topic

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products – The Elkhart Truth

Posted: at 2:09 am

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products - The Elkhart Truth

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products – Herald Palladium

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products - Herald Palladium

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products – The Bryan Times

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By Stephen Beech via SWNS

Seaweed clogging up the Caribbean could be used to produce sustainable goods, say scientists.

British researchers have been working to track the spread of sargassum which is wreaking environmental havoc as well as causing economic damage across the region.

The huge mass stranded seaweed blocks fishing boats, threatens tourism and disrupts turtle nesting sites, reefs and mangroves.

It also releases toxic gas which impacts human health as well as damaging electrical equipment.

First reported by Christopher Columbus in the 15th Century, floating mats of sargassum have long been present in the North Atlantic.

But since 2011, a giant floating mass has established between West Africa and South America, and increased in size to form the great Atlantic sargassum belt a macroalgal bloom more than 5,000 miles long that is even visible from space and estimated to weigh 35 million tons.

Scientists believe the massive blooms of sargassum are thought to be down to nutrient pollution and warming seas.

Vast quantities of the seaweed end up in landfill each year as it becomes a global environmental issue.

Photo by cottonbro studio via Pexels

Researchers from the Universities of York and Southampton, alongside colleagues from the University of the West Indies, set out to learn more about sargassum to unlock its potential to be used in the production of sustainable products.

But the seaweed's possible uses are limited due to its high arsenic content.

Study first author Dr. Carla Machado said: The small quantities of sargassum that used to wash ashore in the Caribbean provided a habitat for turtles, crabs and fish and contributed to beach formation as it decomposed.

"But the vast sargassum blooms of the past decade are a global problem that will continue to grow and have a major impact in the affected countries."

Dr. Machado, of York University, added: "This research project has brought together international researchers specializing in biomass composition and satellite imaging to track, sample and study sargassum, providing crucial new knowledge of this little-understood macroalgae.

She explained that for a biomass to be utilized, it needs to be "consistent" in its composition to ensures that it can be processed efficiently and behave predictably during production.

The research team tested different processing methods for the seaweed - including shade-drying or freezing - and found the protein content of the seaweed stayed the same.

But the method of processing did affect levels of other components such as alginate, which can be processed for many applications, including biomaterials.

The researchers collected samples of sargassum in Jamaica throughout 2021, which coincided with the April 2021 eruption of La Soufrire volcano on the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent.

Using drift patterns, the team calculated that the sargassum samples they collected in August 2021 would have spent around 50 days exposed to ash from the eruption.

They discovered that seaweed that had likely been in contact with volcanic ash contained less arsenic, but had accumulated other elements including nickel and zinc.

Sargassum in Jamaica in August 2021.

Lead author Dr. Thierry Tonon, also of York University, said: Understanding sargassums response to environmental conditions is crucial for unlocking its biology and potential value.

With the great sargassum belt also receiving additional nutrients from Sahara dust that blows across the Atlantic, huge quantities of the seaweed washing up on coastlines looks set to become the new normal.

The team say more work needs to be done to increase understanding about sargassum and how it is going to behave in future.

Dr. Robert Marsh, of the University of Southampton said: "The sargassum beaching around Jamaica in late summer 2021 carried distinct traces of the volcanic ash that settled upon it around four months earlier, just to the east of St Vincent.

"This novel volcanic tag confirmed that sargassum arrives each summer at Jamaican beaches after a months-long journey drifting with currents from the central tropical Atlantic.

Dr. Hazel Oxenford, from the University of the West Indies, said: Volcanic ash collected in my garden from the St Vincent eruption was used to determine its chemical signature.

"Being able to detect those components in sargassum after it travelled more than 1,700 kilometers across the Caribbean to Jamaica was exciting.

"It confirmed our predicted transport pathway for sargassum, showed that the seaweed lives for at least four months and demonstrates the marine connectivity across the region.

Professor Mona Webber, also from the University of the West Indies, added: It is very important for Caribbean Islands being affected by the sargassum inundation to be able to benefit from its valorization.

"Understanding how the sargassum we collect in Jamaica has changed en route to our shores and factors that could affect especially the arsenic content, will propel us towards safe use of the algal biomass.

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Seaweed plaguing the Caribbean could become eco-friendly products - The Bryan Times

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Pirates Of The Caribbean Changed Completely Because Of Johnny Depp – Giant Freakin Robot

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Apparently the original version of Jack Sparrow as Disney wrote the character was much more of a straightforward antihero who was supposed to be a bit menacing.

Obviously Johnny Depps interpretation of Sparrow did not align with that, and his mannerisms even early into the first Pirates of the Caribbean are much more comedic. Depp played the character very quirky and flamboyant, even creating Sparrows signature run resembling a distraught chicken.

It trickled back to me that Michael Eisner went on some sort of bent about how Godd***it Johnny Depps ruining the film! Is it drunk? Is it gay? Johnny Depp said of the early response he got to his time on Pirates of the Caribbean.

Some associated with the film truly believe the only way to salvage it was to get rid of Depp and start fresh. And so I fully expected to be fired, and I got a call from the upper echelon at Disney who were courageous enough to ask me, What the f**k are you doing?

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Pirates Of The Caribbean Changed Completely Because Of Johnny Depp - Giant Freakin Robot

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MERC Proposes 2024 Draft Second Amendment Regulation For Grid Interactive Rooftop Renewable Energy Systems – SolarQuarter

Posted: at 2:06 am

In Maharashtra, a significant step towards sustainable energy use is underway with a draft amendment to existing guidelines concerning Grid Interactive Rooftop Renewable Energy Systems. This second amendment enables both individual and collective setups of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, within the same electrical distribution area, thereby enhancing accessibility and utility.

Under the revised provisions, any residential consumer can install a renewable energy system anywhere within their distribution licensees area. This flexibility allows for the generation of renewable energy through arrangements like virtual net metering. Virtual net metering is particularly innovative as it permits the energy produced by a renewable system to be shared amongst multiple consumers. For instance, members of a housing society can collectively install and benefit from a single renewable energy system. The total capacity of this system is merely the sum of what each participating consumer is eligible for, ensuring fair and equitable distribution and usage.

Moreover, these updates streamline the technical and bureaucratic processes associated with setting up new systems. Any residential installation up to 10 kW no longer requires a technical feasibility study, thus speeding up approval times. For larger setups, the rules specify a timeline for completing feasibility studies, emphasizing efficiency and responsiveness from the distribution licensees.

For energy accounting, the revisions detail a clear methodology. The energy produced is first used to offset consumption in corresponding time blocks within the billing cycle. Surplus energy is treated differently depending on the consumers time-of-day usage pattern, ensuring that credits are calculated fairly. At the end of the financial year, any unadjusted credits are handled according to specific guidelines provided, maintaining transparency and accountability in energy billing.

These modifications not only facilitate the adoption of green energy but also reflect a regulatory environment that supports innovation and consumer choice in energy sources. The updates anticipate future growth in the sector and aim to build an infrastructure that supports up to 5,000 MW of rooftop solar installations, marking a significant commitment to renewable energy in Maharashtra.

The Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) has introduced these regulations under the powers conferred by Section 61 and Section 86(3) read with Section 181 of the Electricity Act, 2003 (36 of 2003). Additionally, these regulations align with Clause 5.3 of the Tariff Policy, 2016, and other enabling powers. After previous publication, MERC has enacted the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (Grid Interactive Rooftop Renewable Energy Generating Systems) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2024, which amend the Principal Regulations set in 2019 and the First Amendment in 2023.

One of the significant suggestions provided in these amendments is the emphasis on virtual net metering. This system is advantageous for residential consumers who may not have adequate space for individual installations. By allowing multiple residential consumers, including housing societies, to set up a common renewable energy system, the regulations promote collective energy generation and consumption. This ensures that renewable energy benefits are more widely distributed and accessible.

Another key suggestion is to simplify the process for residential installations up to 10 kW. By removing the requirement for a technical feasibility study for smaller installations, the amendments aim to reduce the administrative burden and accelerate the adoption of rooftop solar systems. This change is expected to encourage more residential consumers to invest in renewable energy, contributing to the overall sustainability goals of the state.

Furthermore, the amendments include clear and detailed guidelines for energy accounting. The approach ensures that energy production and consumption are accurately recorded, and surplus energy is credited appropriately. This transparency is crucial for building consumer trust and promoting the widespread adoption of renewable energy systems.

Overall, these regulatory updates reflect a proactive approach by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission to support and expand the use of renewable energy. By addressing technical, administrative, and financial aspects, the amendments aim to create a conducive environment for the growth of the renewable energy sector in Maharashtra. The states commitment to increasing its rooftop solar capacity to 5,000 MW highlights its dedication to sustainable energy and reducing its carbon footprint.

Please view the document below for more details.

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MERC Proposes 2024 Draft Second Amendment Regulation For Grid Interactive Rooftop Renewable Energy Systems - SolarQuarter

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