Researchers at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) have developed a hybrid supercapacitor using carbon derived from Pinus radiata waste.
The lithium-ion capacitor features electrodes made from discarded wood particles, offering a sustainable and cost-effective energy storage solution.
With abundant biomass resources in the Basque Country in Spain, the team utilized environmentally friendly and inexpensive processes to create high-performance electrodes. Their findings highlight the potential of biomass-based materials in producing efficient, eco-friendly energy storage systems.
According to researchers, the innovation could pave the way for greener alternatives in high-power energy storage, reducing reliance on conventional materials and enhancing sustainability in the sector.
Biomass-powered capacitors
Modern society’s growing energy needs necessitate sustainable storage options that don’t fuel global warming. Energy storage is dominated by lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and supercapacitors (SCs), but each has drawbacks: SCs have high power but rapidly self-discharge, while LIBs have high energy but deteriorate with time.
Combining the two technologies, lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) provide high energy, power, and long cycle life, which makes them perfect for uses such as electric vehicles and wind turbines.
The choice of electrode material has a significant impact on LIC performance. Despite its widespread use, graphite is a key raw element and is expensive for the environment. Although alternatives like hard carbons, soft carbons, and nanocarbons have potential, their high cost and complexity prevent their widespread use.
The UPV/EHU team developed a cost-effective LIC using carbon from Pinus radiata waste, an abundant and sustainable resource in Biscay, Spain. They produced high-performance electrodes using carbon sourced from biomass instead of costly chemicals or energy-intensive procedures.
“We develop new materials that can be used to store energy. In this case, to create electrodes we prepared carbon from the wood particles of the insignis pines that are all around us and are used in carpentry workshops,” said Idoia Ruiz de Larramendi, a lecturer at UPV/EHU and member of the research group, in a statement.
Eco-friendly batteries
Batteries and supercapacitors are essential for energy storage, each with distinct advantages. Supercapacitors produce great power output for brief periods of time, whereas batteries retain more energy. Supercapacitors are not suited for long-term energy supply, but they are perfect for applications that need quick energy release.
The research created a hybrid lithium-ion device that combines the advantages of both technologies. It retains the robustness and quick charge-discharge qualities of a supercapacitor while storing high-power energy like a battery. The device’s total performance is improved by combining electrodes of the battery and supercapacitor types.
Various forms of carbon, carefully chosen from biomass sources, were used to create electrodes. Not all biomass provides suitable carbon for energy storage applications, but results demonstrated the effectiveness of carbon derived from insignis pine.
Researchers found that one electrode was composed of hard carbon and the other of activated carbon. Sustainability and cost-effectiveness were given top priority during the production process, which used cost-effective additives and maintained synthesis temperatures below 700°C.
In the new configuration, the positive electrode, which is composed of the same carbon, has a big surface area, while the negative electrode stores a lot of energy without the need for expensive chemicals. The system provides 105 Wh/kg at 700 W/kg and retains 60 percent capacity after 10,000 charge cycles.
The study points to the potential of local biomass as a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative for lithium-ion capacitors. The team highlights that biomass-derived materials offer promising opportunities for high-power energy storage, emphasizing the need for continued research to improve energy storage technologies with sustainable solutions.
The details of the team’s research were published in the Journal of Power Sources.
Earthquakes are one of nature’s most destructive forces, capable of causing widespread devastation in a matter of seconds. While we cannot prevent earthquakes from occurring, we can significantly reduce their impact through collective awareness, preparation, and action. Natural disasters such as earthquakes strike without warning, leaving behind trails of destruction, sorrow, and loss. The ground shakes, buildings fall, and lives are changed forever within moments. In the face of such devastating events, individual efforts alone are not enough. It is only through collective action, the combined strength of communities, governments, organizations, and individuals that we can truly overcome the challenges and rebuild stronger than before.When an earthquake hits, the immediate priority is saving lives. Rescue teams, medical professionals, and volunteers must work hand in hand to provide emergency aid. This rapid response is only possible if communities are trained and prepared in advance. Therefore, collective preparedness such as earthquake drills, emergency plans, and shared knowledge can significantly reduce the loss of life. Schools, workplaces, and neighbourhoods must unite in practising these safety measures regularly.After the initial shock, the path to recovery requires even more cooperation. Rebuilding homes, restoring infrastructure, and healing from trauma take time and effort. Governments can provide funding and policy support, while local and international organizations offer technical assistance and relief supplies. Community members can participate in rebuilding efforts, support each other emotionally, and ensure no one is left behind. The power of unity becomes evident when everyone, regardless of their background, works towards a common goal.First and foremost, education and awareness are crucial. Many people are unaware of the signs of an impending earthquake or the safety procedures to follow. The offices, schools, and all communities must join forces to educate the public about earthquake risks and safety measures. Regular drills, public campaigns, and the integration of disaster preparedness into school curriculums can help ensure that everyone knows how to act quickly and calmly during an earthquake.Secondly, building infrastructure that can withstand seismic activity is essential. In earthquake-prone regions, strict construction standards should be enforced, and older buildings should be retrofitted to meet modern safety codes. Architects, engineers, and city planners all have a role to play in ensuring that our built environment does not become a trap during a quake. Investing in resilient infrastructure today can save countless lives tomorrow.Community cooperation is another powerful tool. Neighbours helping neighbours can make a significant difference in times of crisis. Forming local emergency response teams, establishing communication plans, and stockpiling essential supplies can improve survival rates and reduce chaos during an earthquake. When communities come together to prepare, the impact of disasters is often greatly reduced.Technology and science also offer valuable support. Early warning systems, seismic monitoring networks, and mobile alerts can provide precious seconds or even minutes of warning, giving people time to take cover. Governments and private sectors should work together to invest in these technologies and ensure they are accessible to all.Moreover, collective action plays a crucial role in reducing future risks. By learning from past experiences, communities can push for stronger building codes, improved early warning systems, and better land-use planning. Public education campaigns shared disaster data, and community-led resilience projects helped create a culture of safety and awareness.In conclusion, while we may not be able to stop earthquakes from happening, we can certainly prevent their worst effects by preparing and acting together. Let us unite and take collective responsibility to make our homes, schools, offices and cities safer. By joining hands — before, during, and after a disaster — we can protect lives, rebuild communities, and emerge stronger. Let us all remember: together, we are resilient. Together, we can overcome any disaster.Source :The Global New Light of Myanmar
INWA, Myanmar, April 4 (Xinhua)Htet Htet Win stands before the shattered remains of Me Nu Brick Monastery, once a proud symbol of Inwa’s rich history and a lifeline for its people. But it’s not just Me Nu Brick Monastery. Nearly all of Inwa’s ancient structures collapsed in the March 28 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which hit central Myanmar’s Mandalay Region, leaving Inwa in ruins. Also known as Ava and located in the Mandalay Region, Inwa was an ancient capital of Myanmar from the 14th to the 19th century, and is home to over 960 ancient buildings and pagodas.Instead of selling flowers and guiding visitors through centuries-old temples, Htet Htet Win now gestures toward piles of broken bricks and fallen pillars, explaining how the disaster wiped out not only Inwa’s heritage but also her livelihood.“The earthquake broke our pot of rice,” said the 22-year-old, using a Myanmar proverb about lost livelihoods. “The monastery fed us. When it collapsed, I felt like we no longer had our pot of rice,” she said on Wednesday.For years, she and her family thrived here. Tourists came for the ancient monasteries and pagodas, and locals like her earned a steady income through selling flowers, taking pictures for visitors, and sharing stories of the ancient pagodas. On busy days, she made more money than she could count, she said. But the earthquake changed everything. The ground roared, and Inwa’s ancient landmarks, including monasteries, stupas, centuries-old structures, crumbled.Brick by brick, Me Nu Monastery collapsed. Homes cracked open. Roads split.Yet Inwa’s loss is more than financial. It is a daily struggle for survival as the earthquake shattered water pipelines, cutting off access to clean water for hundreds of families.“We now have to collect water from the Ayeyarwady River,” Htet Htet Win said. “But some riverbanks have collapsed, making it even harder to reach.”At night, fear lingers. With homes unsafe, many sleep outdoors. Each aftershock jolted them awake, a cruel reminder that the worst may not be over. Still, amid the hardship, she clings to the small mercy of survival. “Compared to other places, we are safe from death. No one was killed in our ward,” she said.Unlike nearby Sagaing, Tada-U, and Mandalay where bodies were pulled from collapsed buildings, Inwa was spared mass casualties. But survival alone does not put food on the table. The tourists are gone. The monasteries are in ruins. And without visitors, there is no income.Inwa, covering an area of seven square miles, boasts a rich history with 961 buildings and pagodas. Inwa has also been preparing for its nomination to the UNESCO World Heritage List, local media reports said. The ancient monastery attracted over 1,000 visitors daily before COVID-19, and hundreds of visitors before the earthquake, Htet Htet Win said.Htet Htet Win looks at what remains of her city — once a thriving historical site, now a pile of broken bricks and shattered dreams. She said she doesn’t know if the monastery will ever be restored.But she refuses to give up, “We have to keep struggling.” Source: Xinhua
WHEN we interact with others, the way we speak holds more power than we often realize. Words, of course, matter, but beyond the actual words we choose, our tone of voice shapes the way those words are received. A single sentence can carry completely different meanings depending on how it is spoken. A gentle, understanding tone can turn even the most difficult conversations into moments of connection, while a harsh or indifferent tone can create walls that may never come down.Think of a time when someone spoke in a way that made us feel small, unimportant, or misunderstood. Maybe they didn’t mean to hurt us, but their tone carried impatience, frustration, or dismissiveness. That moment may have stayed with us longer than we expected. Even if the words themselves were harmless, the way they were said left an imprint, a bruise that took time to fade. On the other hand, think of a time when someone spoke with kindness, understanding, and warmth. That moment likely stood out too, giving us comfort and reassurance. Their words didn’t just communicate information; they made us feel seen, heard, and valued.Human emotions are complex, and everyone carries an invisible weight within them. Some carry stress from work, others are struggling with personal hardships, and many are simply trying to get through the day without feeling overwhelmed. In the midst of all this, our tone of voice can either add to their burden or lighten it. It can be the difference between making someone’s day harder or giving them a moment of relief.Imagine a simple conversation between two coworkers. One asks for help, and the other responds, “What do you need?” spoken in a soft, helpful tone. The same words spoken with impatience or irritation – “What do you need?” – can make the person hesitate, feel like a bother, or even regret asking in the first place. The difference is subtle yet profound. Tone has the ability to encourage or discourage, to make people feel safe or insecure, to build trust or to break it.This is why being mindful of how we speak is so important. A conversation isn’t just about transferring information; it’s about human connection. Every interaction carries an emotional weight, whether we intend it to or not. We might forget the exact words someone said, but we rarely forget how they made us feel. That feeling lingers in our minds, shaping our thoughts about them and even about ourselves.Parents often experience this with their children. A tired, frustrated parent might snap at their child, not meaning to be unkind but simply feeling overwhelmed in the moment. The child, however, doesn’t just hear the words – they hear the disappointment, the impatience, and the sharp edge in the voice of someone they look up to. That one moment might fade for the parent, but for the child, it may be remembered as a moment when they felt unloved or unimportant. On the other hand, when a parent speaks with patience and warmth, even in times of discipline, the child feels secure and loved. They understand that mistakes don’t define them and that their worth isn’t shaken by a bad moment.The same applies to friendships and romantic relationships. Arguments and disagreements are a natural part of any close relationship, but how we express frustration can determine whether we deepen our bond or damage it. A simple “I’m upset” said in a calm, controlled tone invites discussion and understanding. “I’m upset!” yelled in anger shuts down communication and may leave the other person feeling defensive or hurt. Words spoken in anger can be forgiven, but their emotional impact often lingers far longer than we anticipate.Workplaces, too, are filled with examples of how tone of voice affects interactions. A manager giving feedback can either inspire or discourage an employee, depending on how they deliver their message. “This needs improvement” can feel constructive whenspoken in a neutral, supportive tone. But with a sharp, dismissive tone, the same phrase can feel like criticism that stings, making the employee question their abilities. In professional settings, where morale and teamwork are crucial, tone plays a significant role in shaping a positive or toxic work environment.Even in everyday encounters with strangers, our tone of voice can have an impact. A cashier at the grocery store, a barista at a coffee shop, or a fellow passenger on public transport – these brief interactions may seem insignificant, but they can leave lasting impressions. A warm “thank you” can make someone’s workday feel a little lighter. A rushed, indifferent response can make them feel invisible like they’re just another task to complete. Small moments add up, and though we may never know the full extent of how our tone affects others, it’s always worth choosing kindness.It’s easy to forget about tone in the rush of daily life. Stress, fatigue, and frustration can make it harder to be mindful of how we sound. But awareness is the first step. Taking a moment to pause before speaking, adjusting our tone to match our intention, and making a conscious effort to communicate with kindness can transform the way we connect with others.There’s an undeniable truth in the idea that people may not remember what we said, but they will remember how we made them feel. This is a reminder to approach conversations with empathy, to soften our words when needed, and to use our tone as a tool for connection rather than division. The world is filled with enough harshness, enough impatience. Choosing to speak with warmth and understanding is a small act, but its impact can be profound.So the next time we speak, we must consider not just what we say, but how we say it. A thoughtful tone can turn a simple interaction into a moment of reassurance, a conversation into a connection, and a difficult moment into an opportunity for kindness. Our voices have power – let’s use them to uplift, comfort, and remind others that they matter.Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar
In a significant diplomatic and technological milestone, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council and Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services , embarked on a high-profile visit to Russia. This visit, which took place on 2 September 2024, as noted in the official records, marks a pivotal moment in the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. The primary focus of this collaboration is the peaceful advancement of space technology, a field that holds immense potential for Myanmar’s development. Here, let us explore the details of this partnership, the discussions held, the technological exchanges planned, and the profound benefits that Myanmar stands to gain from this alliance, all while emphasizing the commitment to peaceful applications of space exploration.The Context of the VisitThe meeting between Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and high-ranking Russian officials, including the Senior General of the Russian Federation and the Deputy Prime Minister, underscored a mutual interest in fostering cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic channels. Held under the auspices of the State Administration Council Chairman Prime Minister Senior General’s Office, the discussions centred on leveraging Russia’s advanced space technology expertise to support Myanmar’s aspirations. The presence of key figures such as the Deputy Prime Minister and other senior officials from both nations highlighted the strategic importance of this partnership. The talks were not merely ceremonial; they were a concrete step toward integrating Myanmar into the global space technology ecosystem, with a clear emphasis on peaceful purposes.The image accompanying the article depicts a formal meeting, with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing seated alongside Russian counterparts in a conference room, surrounded by an array of officials. This visual representation symbolizes the seriousness with which both nations are approaching this collaboration. Additionally, the second image showcases a rocket assembly process, hinting at the technological exchange that is at the heart of this partnership. These visuals serve as a testament to the tangible progress being made and the ambitious goals set forth during the discussions.The Foundation of the PartnershipRussia has long been a global leader in space exploration, with a legacy that includes the launch of the first human into space, Yuri Gagarin, and the development of the Soyuz spacecraft. The country’s space agency, Roscosmos, has been instrumental in advancing satellite technology, rocket manufacturing, and interplanetary missions. For Myanmar, a nation with a burgeoning interest in modern technology but limited infrastructure in this domain, this partnership offers a unique opportunity to leapfrog into the 21st-century space age.The discussions during Senior General Min Aung Hlaing’s visit focused on several key areas. First, there was an emphasis on the establishment of satellite technology, which could revolutionize communication, weather forecasting, and disaster management in Myanmar. Second, the collaboration extends to rocket manufacturing and space launch capabilities, with plans to potentially establish a joint factory or research facility. Third, the exchange of expertise between Russian and Myanmar scientists was a critical component, aimed at building local capacity over time. This multifaceted approach reflects a long-term vision for Myanmar’s integration into the globalspace community.Peaceful Advancement of Space TechnologyA cornerstone of this collaboration is the commitment to using space technology for peaceful purposes. The State Administration Council Chairman Prime Minister Senior General’s Office has explicitly outlined that the partnership with Russia will focus on “peaceful utilization of space technology”. This stance aligns with international norms and treaties, such as the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, which mandates that space exploration be conducted for the benefit of all countries and prohibits the placement of weapons of mass destruction in orbit.For Myanmar, the peaceful application of space technology translates into tangible benefits across multiple sectors. Satellite technology, for instance, can enhance communication networks in remote regions, where traditional infrastructure is lacking. Weather satellites can provide early warnings for natural disasters such as cyclones and floods, which are frequent challenges in Myanmar due to its geographical location. Moreover, space-based data can support agricultural planning, enabling farmers to optimize planting and harvesting schedules based on precise meteorological information.The rocket assembly process depicted in the image is a symbol of this peaceful intent. Rather than being geared toward military applications, the technology transfer is intended to support scientific research, education, and industrial development. This aligns with the broader goal of fostering regional economic integration, as Myanmar seeks to position itself as a key player in Southeast Asia’s technological landscape.Benefits for MyanmarThe potential benefits of this collaboration for Myanmar are vast and multifaceted, touching upon economic, educational, and social dimensions.Economic Growth and Industrial DevelopmentOne of the most immediate advantages is the boost to Myanmar’s industrial sector. The establishment of a joint rocket factory or space technology facility, as hinted at in the discussions, could create thousands of jobs. This would not only reduce unemployment but also stimulate related industries such as metallurgy, electronics, and engineering. The production of fertilizers, a critical need for Myanmar’s agrarian economy, could also be enhanced through space-derived technologies, such as precision agriculture guided by satellite imagery.Furthermore, the export of space technology components or services could open new revenue streams for Myanmar. By partnering with Russia, a nation with a robust space industry, Myanmar could eventually contribute to the global supply chain, elevating its economic status on the international stage.Educational AdvancementEducation is another area poised for transformation. The exchange of scientists and engineers between Russia and Myanmar will facilitate knowledge transfer, enabling the training of a new generation of space professionals. Universities in Myanmar could introduce space science curricula, fostering innovation and research. This educational upliftment is crucial for a country that has historically faced challenges in building a skilled workforce in high-tech fields. The image of the rocket assembly also serves as an inspirational tool. It can motivate young Myanmar students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), thereby laying the foundation for a knowledge-based economy.Regional and Global IntegrationOn a broader scale, this partnership enhances Myanmar’s role in regional and international affairs. By collaborating with Russia, Myanmar gains access to a network of space-faring nations, potentially including China and India, which are also active in the region’s space race. This integration could lead to joint missions, shared satellite networks, and cooperative disaster response systems, strengthening Myanmar’s position in Southeast Asia.The visit’s emphasis on regional economic integration, as noted in the document, suggests that Myanmar aims to use space technology as a tool for diplomacy and development. For instance, satellite data could be shared with neighbouring countries to address transboundary issues such as climate change and resource management.Challenges and ConsiderationsWhile the prospects are promising, this collaboration is not without challenges. Myanmar’s current technological infrastructure is limited, and significant investment will be required to build the necessary facilities and train personnel. Additionally, the political context of Myanmar, including international sanctions and internal conflicts, could complicate the implementation of such ambitious projects. However, the focus on peaceful applications may help mitigate some of these concerns, as it aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable development.Another consideration is the need for transparency and accountability. As Myanmar embarks on this journey, it must ensure that the benefits of space technology are equitably distributed across its population, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The government will need to work closely with international partners and civil society to achieve this goal.The Road AheadThe visit by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing to Russia is just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative partnership. The establishment of the State Space Corporation “Roscosmos” office in Myanmar, as mentioned in the document, is a concrete step toward operationalizing this collaboration. Plans include the assembly of satellites and the development of a launch site, potentially near the Tanintharyi Region, which offers strategic geographical advantages.The peaceful advancement of space technology also opens the door to cultural exchanges. Joint missions could involve Myanmar astronauts training in Russia, fostering a sense of pride and unity among the populace. Additionally, the collaboration could inspire artistic and educational initiatives, such as planetariums or space museums, to engage the public.The partnership between Myanmar and Russia in the peaceful advancement of space technology represents a bold vision for the future. Under the leadership of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar is poised to harness Russia’s expertise to address its developmental challenges while contributing to global scientific progress. From enhancing communication and disaster preparedness to boosting economic growth and education, the benefits are far-reaching. As this collaboration unfolds, it will be essential to maintain a focus on peace, equity, and sustainability, ensuring that the skies above Myanmar become a symbol of hope and progress for generations to come.This alliance is not just about rockets and satellites; it is about building a bridge between nations, fostering innovation, and uplifting society. With a commitment to peaceful utilization and a strategic roadmap, Myanmar and Russia are setting the stage for a new era of technological collaboration that could redefine the region’s future.Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar
Researchers at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) have developed a hybrid supercapacitor using carbon derived from Pinus radiata waste.The lithium-ion capacitor features electrodes made from discarded wood particles, offering a sustainable and cost-effective energy storage solution.With abundant biomass resources in the Basque Country in Spain, the team utilized environmentally friendly and inexpensive processes to create high-performance electrodes. Their findings highlight the potential of biomass-based materials in producing efficient, eco-friendly energy storage systems.According to researchers, the innovation could pave the way for greener alternatives in high-power energy storage, reducing reliance on conventional materials and enhancing sustainability in the sector.Biomass-powered capacitorsModern society’s growing energy needs necessitate sustainable storage options that don’t fuel global warming. Energy storage is dominated by lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and supercapacitors (SCs), but each has drawbacks: SCs have high power but rapidly self-discharge, while LIBs have high energy but deteriorate with time.Combining the two technologies, lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) provide high energy, power, and long cycle life, which makes them perfect for uses such as electric vehicles and wind turbines.The choice of electrode material has a significant impact on LIC performance. Despite its widespread use, graphite is a key raw element and is expensive for the environment. Although alternatives like hard carbons, soft carbons, and nanocarbons have potential, their high cost and complexity prevent their widespread use.The UPV/EHU team developed a cost-effective LIC using carbon from Pinus radiata waste, an abundant and sustainable resource in Biscay, Spain. They produced high-performance electrodes using carbon sourced from biomass instead of costly chemicals or energy-intensive procedures.“We develop new materials that can be used to store energy. In this case, to create electrodes we prepared carbon from the wood particles of the insignis pines that are all around us and are used in carpentry workshops,” said Idoia Ruiz de Larramendi, a lecturer at UPV/EHU and member of the research group, in a statement.Eco-friendly batteriesBatteries and supercapacitors are essential for energy storage, each with distinct advantages. Supercapacitors produce great power output for brief periods of time, whereas batteries retain more energy. Supercapacitors are not suited for long-term energy supply, but they are perfect for applications that need quick energy release.The research created a hybrid lithium-ion device that combines the advantages of both technologies. It retains the robustness and quick charge-discharge qualities of a supercapacitor while storing high-power energy like a battery. The device’s total performance is improved by combining electrodes of the battery and supercapacitor types.Various forms of carbon, carefully chosen from biomass sources, were used to create electrodes. Not all biomass provides suitable carbon for energy storage applications, but results demonstrated the effectiveness of carbon derived from insignis pine.Researchers found that one electrode was composed of hard carbon and the other of activated carbon. Sustainability and cost-effectiveness were given top priority during the production process, which used cost-effective additives and maintained synthesis temperatures below 700°C.In the new configuration, the positive electrode, which is composed of the same carbon, has a big surface area, while the negative electrode stores a lot of energy without the need for expensive chemicals. The system provides 105 Wh/kg at 700 W/kg and retains 60 percent capacity after 10,000 charge cycles.The study points to the potential of local biomass as a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative for lithium-ion capacitors. The team highlights that biomass-derived materials offer promising opportunities for high-power energy storage, emphasizing the need for continued research to improve energy storage technologies with sustainable solutions.The details of the team’s research were published in the Journal of Power Sources.Source: https://interestingengineering.com/energy/sawdust-superpower-wood-waste-battery-breakthrough
When you hear the term “international law,” what comes to mind? Perhaps you picture diplomats in suits, sitting in grand conference halls, signing treaties that seem distant from your daily life. Or maybe you imagine high-stakes cases at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where nations argue over territorial disputes and human rights violations.But what if I told you that international law isn’t just something that happens in faraway places, affecting only politicians and legal scholars? It’s actually woven into the fabric of your everyday life—in ways you might not even realize. From the coffee you sip in the morning to the social media platforms you browse before bed, international law is quietly shaping the modern world, ensuring that systems run smoothly and fairly. Let’s take a closer look at how international law shows up in your daily routine.1. Morning Coffee and Global TradePicture this: you wake up, stumble to the kitchen, and make yourself a cup of coffee. That simple act is already tied to international law.The coffee beans in your cup might have come from Brazil, Ethiopia, or Vietnam. How did they get to your local store? Through a complex network of trade agreements regulated by the World Trade Organization (WTO). The WTO sets the rules on tariffs, trade barriers, and import/export standards, making it possible for those coffee beans to travel across borders without excessive costs or political interference.Even the logo on your coffee cup is protected by international law. Intellectual property agreements, such as the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), protect the brand identity and trademarks of coffee companies, ensuring that you know you're drinking the real thing and not a knock-off.Next time you take a sip of your morning brew, you might want to thank international law for making it possible.2. Traveling Abroad: Passports and VisasPlanning a trip abroad? Your passport and visa requirements are shaped by international agreements.Why can you travel to some countries visa-free but need a visa for others? That’s because of bilateral and multilateral agreements between countries, which determine the terms of entry for foreign nationals. The design and security of your passport are also regulated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The ICAO sets global standards to prevent fraud and ensure smooth border crossings.The ease of booking a flight and checking in at the airport is also governed by international aviation laws. The Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation (1944) established the legal framework for air travel, ensuring that planes from one country can safely land in another.So, the next time you breeze through passport control, remember that international law helped pave the way.3. Environmental Protection and Climate ChangeEver wondered why plastic straws have disappeared from your favorite café? Or why countries are switching to renewable energy sources? That’s international law in action.The Paris Agreement (2015), signed by nearly every country in the world, sets targets for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. This agreement pushes governments to adopt sustainable practices—like banning single-use plastics or investing in green energy—which directly impacts your daily life.International treaties also protect wildlife and natural resources. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) regulates the global trade of endangered animals and plants, ensuring that species are not exploited to extinction.Even the beauty industry is influenced by international environmental standards. Take Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty lipstick, for example. A portion of the proceeds from certain shades goes toward coral reef restoration efforts. Coral reefs are essential for marine biodiversity, but they are threatened by ocean warming and pollution. International environmental laws and agreements, like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), aim to protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable use of ocean resources.So next time you apply that perfect shade of coral lipstick, remember that you’re not just enhancing your look—you’re supporting global efforts to protect the planet’s ecosystems.4. Online Shopping and Consumer ProtectionClicked "Buy Now" on Amazon or Temu recently? Your online purchase is more connected to international law than you think.International trade agreements ensure that goods can be imported and exported across borders efficiently. The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) sets the framework for international commerce, ensuring fair trade practices and reducing trade barriers.Consumer protection laws, including intellectual property agreements, also protect you from counterfeit products and fraud. Cybersecurity agreements between countries work behind the scenes to protect your personal data when you enter your credit card details online.So next time your package arrives at your door, remember that international law helped make it possible—safely and legally.5. Health and Global PandemicsThe COVID-19 pandemic showed us just how interconnected the world is—and how crucial international cooperation is in times of crisis.The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a key role in coordinating global health responses. Its regulations on disease reporting and health emergencies ensure that outbreaks are tracked and managed quickly. The WHO also works with governments and pharmaceutical companies to ensure that vaccines and treatments are distributed fairly.International law also governs medical research and the sharing of scientific data. Agreements like the Nagoya Protocol regulate the use of genetic resources, ensuring that the benefits of medical discoveries are shared globally.From vaccine rollouts to international travel restrictions, global health law shapes how the world responds to public health emergencies—protecting you and your community.6. Social Media and Digital PrivacyScrolling through Facebook or TikTok? Even social media is shaped by international law.Data privacy regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union set standards for how social media companies collect, store, and use your personal information. Many platforms follow these guidelines globally, which means that your data is protected even if you're not in the EU.International agreements on cybercrime also regulate how governments respond to hacking, misinformation, and online threats. Your ability to use social media freely and safely is, in part, the result of international legal frameworks that protect online expression and privacy.Why It MattersInternational law isn’t just about treaties and court cases—it’s about the invisible rules that make modern life possible. It ensures that you can trade, travel, shop, and communicate across borders with confidence and security.The next time you enjoy a cup of coffee, buy something online, or book a flight, or put on a lipstick, remember that international law is working behind the scenes. It’s not just the domain of diplomats and lawyers—it’s part of the rhythm of everyday life.Understanding international law helps you see the world differently. It shows you how interconnected and interdependent we all are—and why cooperation between nations matters more than ever.So, the next time someone mentions international law, you’ll know it’s not just about politics and treaties—it’s about the small things that make your world go round.Reference List:1. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). (2015). Paris Agreement. [Link to document or website]2. World Wildlife Fund (WWF). (n.d.). Plastic pollution. Retrieved from [https://www.wwf.org]3. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (n.d.). The Role of Environmental Protection. Retrieved from [https://www.epa.gov]4. Gomez, S. (2021). Selena Gomez's Lipstick and the Environment. [Source or Article Name].5. International Criminal Court (ICC). (n.d.). International Law and Environmental Protection. Retrieved from [https://www.icc-cpi.int]6. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). (2021). Climate Change: The Physical Science Basis. Retrieved from [https://www.ipcc.ch]7. International Court of Justice (ICJ). (n.d.). International Law on Environmental Protection. Retrieved from [https://www.icj-cij.org]8. UN Environment Programme (UNEP). (2020). The State of the Environment Report. Retrieved from [https://www.unenvironment.org]9. The Guardian. (2021). Fashion and Sustainability: What Does the Industry Need to Do?
