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Gravity Agrees to Sell Water Midstream Business to Delek LogisticsBRASILIA: Harley Sandoval, an evangelical pastor, real estate agent and mining entrepreneur, was arrested in July 2023 for illegally exporting 294 kilos of gold from Brazil's Amazon to the United States, Dubai and Italy. On paper, the gold was sourced from a legal prospect Sandoval was licensed to mine in the northern state of Tocantins. But police said not an ounce of gold had been mined there since colonial times. Using cutting-edge forensic technology, along with satellite imagery, Brazil's Federal Police said it was able to establish that the exported gold did not come from the Tocantins prospect. Instead, it had been dug up from three different wildcat mines in neighboring Pará, some on protected Indigenous reservation lands, according to previously unreported court documents dated November 2023 seen by Reuters. The prosecution is one of the first in Brazil using the new technology to tackle clandestine trading that may account for as much as half of the gold output of Brazil, a major producer and exporter of the precious metal. Illegal gold mining has surged at thousands of sites in the Amazon rainforest, bringing environmental destruction and criminal violence to the region. Seizures of illegally mined gold have surged seven-fold in the past seven years, according to Federal Police records obtained exclusively by Reuters. Sandoval, who has been released pending trial and continues to preach with his wife at a Pentecostal Evangelical church in the central Brazilian city of Goiania, denies the allegations. He maintains there is no way to establish where the gold was mined once it is melted down into ingots for export. "That's impossible. To export gold one always has to melt it down," he told Reuters by telephone. The DNA of gold Historically, gold is notoriously difficult to trace, especially once metal from different sources has been melted together, erasing the original signatures. After that, it can easily be traded as a financial asset or be used in the jewelry industry. But investigators say that's starting to change. A police program called "Targeting Gold" is creating a database of samples from across Brazil that are examined with radio-isotope scans and fluorescence spectroscopy to determine the unique composition of elements. The technique, long used in archaeology, was pioneered in mining by University of Pretoria geologist Roger Dixon to help distinguish between legal and stolen gold. The program developed in partnership with university researchers includes the use of powerful light beams from a particle accelerator at a Sao Paulo lab to study nano-sized impurities associated with gold, be it dirt or other metals like lead or copper, that help trace its origins. Humberto Freire, director of the Federal Police's recently-created Environment and Amazon Department, said the technology allows scientists to analyze "the DNA of Brazilian gold." "Nature has marked the gold with isotopes and we can read these unique fingerprints with radio-isotope scans," Freire said. "With this tool we can trace illegal gold before it gets refined for export." The program has helped fuel an increase in gold seizures since leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva took office last year — up 38 percent in 2023 from 2022, according to government numbers seen by Reuters. New Brazil central bank gold market regulations, including mandatory electronic tax receipts for all trades and tightened monitoring of suspect transactions, have also helped, according to Freire. "We estimate that around 40 percent of the gold that is extracted in the Amazon is illegal," he told Reuters. Brazil exported 110 tons of gold in 2020 worth $5 billion, according to official data, ranking among the world's top 20 exporters. Last year, exports were 77.7 tons, a drop the government attributes to improved enforcement of illegal mining. Indigenous tensions Lula's predecessor, far-right President Jair Bolsonaro weakened environmental controls in the Amazon. That triggered a new gold rush in Brazil, spurred by record world gold prices that were driven up by geopolitical tensions and central bank purchases, led by China. Prices have continued to new highs, trading at around $2,650 per ounce on Friday. Gold rushes have been a hallmark of mineral-rich Brazil from its Portuguese colonial past. But the latest surge in wildcat mining beginning during Bolsonaro's administration has been unprecedented. Satellite images show there are some 80,000 such prospects today in the Amazon rainforest, more than ever registered before. Once dominated by prospectors with gold pans, artisanal mining in Brazil has become an industrial-scale activity with heavy excavating machinery and million-dollar river dredgers. Criminal organizations fly people, equipment and gold into and out of the region with helicopters and planes that land at clandestine airstrips. Their excavations often leave behind gaping ponds of sludge contaminated with mercury, used to separate the gold from dirt and other minerals. Last year, thousands of miners who invaded the Yanomami territory, the country's largest Indigenous reservation on the northern border with Venezuela, brought violence and disease that caused malnutrition and a humanitarian crisis among the tribe, prompting Lula to send in troops. But many returned this year after the military pulled out. Lula, who has pledged to stamp out illegal gold mining, tried to fight back by deploying special forces of the environmental protection agency Ibama into Indigenous reservations and forest conservation parks. Police say cracking down on the organized crime gangs that back the wildcat miners is the next step in staunching an illegal trade that feeds the jewelry and watch industry in Switzerland, which buys 70 percent of Brazil's exported gold, according to government trade data. Amazon neighbors, including Colombia and French Guiana, are considering adopting the Brazilian gold analysis method to deal with their illegal gold trade and European governments have shown interest, including Switzerland and Britain, the top importers from Brazil after Canada, police and diplomats said. Brazil accounts for just 1 percent of gold imported by Switzerland, a global trade hub for the metal, and "measures are in place to import only legally mined gold," a Swiss embassy statement said. The embassy said it has set up a working group with other importing countries to study traceability and anti-counterfeiting tools. A 2022 study by non-profit watchdog Instituto Escolhas found that 52 percent of the gold exported from the Amazon was illegal, nearly all from protected Indigenous reservation lands or national conservation parks. A vibrant lobby for informal gold mining has survived Bolsonaro in Brazil's Conservative Congress, where pending bills propose legalizing wildcat mining. For now, though, gold samples from across Brazil are being added to a database with the help of scientists at the Federal Police's criminology institute lab in Brasilia, where forensic expert Erich Moreira Lima oversees microscopic scanning of gold nuggets that are kept in a safe. "Now that we have a team set up, we hope to analyze the 30,000 gold samples the Brazilian Geological Service has collected. In a few years, we should have mapped all Brazil's 24 gold producing regions," he told Reuters. Geologist Maria Emilia Schutesky and her team at the National University of Brasilia's geosciences lab conduct mass spectrometry scans on gold samples to identify associated molecules, such as lead, to place the gold's origins. "We researchers seek a 100 percent ability to trace gold, but that is more than what the police needs to prove a crime, which is just to establish that the gold does not come from where a suspects claims it is from," Schutesky said. - ReutersPearl Diver Credit Company Inc. Prices Offering of Series A Preferred StockPearl Diver Credit Company Inc. Prices Offering of Series A Preferred Stock
Share Tweet Share Share Email The incorporation of satellite technologies into the automobile sector is revolutionizing our driving and interacting with car experience. From improving safety to providing flawless entertainment choices, satellite connection is determining the direction of driving experiences. Let us explore the main uses of this innovative technology in vehicles. Real-Time Navigation and Mapping The foundation of real-time navigation systems is satellite technology , which guarantees drivers access precise and dependable mapping information wherever. Whether you’re negotiating isolated roadways or a busy metropolis, satellite-based GPS ensures exact location and effective paths. Eliminating dependence on cellular networks, satellite navigation offers continuous connection even in places with poor infrastructure. Long-distance travellers and those exploring rural or foreign ground would notably benefit from this development. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Advanced Driver Assistance Systems’ (ADAS) ability to work depends on satellite connection. These devices provide vital real-time information to improve driving enjoyment and road safety. Using satellite-fed data, applications such lane-keeping help and accident avoidance find impediments and guarantee cars remain on the right road. ADAS provides drivers with an additional degree of protection and comfort by integrating the technology, therefore improving the safety of the roads for everybody. Emergency Communication Systems Reliable communication may literally save lives in an emergency. Strong emergency response systems in automobiles are made possible by satellite technology, thereby guaranteeing drivers and passengers are never out of reach. Features like eCall systems notify emergency services immediately in the event of an accident, therefore providing exact location information and vital data to responders. Even in places without phone coverage, satellite-enabled remote diagnostics may let service providers evaluate car problems in real-time and provide quick response. Seamless Infotainment Modern automobiles are mobile centers of entertainment and networking, not just means of mobility. Broadband-level communication is supported by satellite technology, which also helps to create high-quality entertainment systems meeting passenger needs. Even in areas with little mobile coverage, drivers and passengers may enjoy continuous streaming of movies and music. Moreover, sophisticated technologies driven by satellite connection are changing in-car experiences and transforming lengthy rides into interesting and fun trips. Fleet Management and Monitoring Satellite technology gives real-time tracking and monitoring features that greatly help commercial fleets. By means of accurate vehicle locations and performance data, fleet managers may maximize operational efficiency and improve delivery routes. Another use of satellite communication, predictive maintenance uses IoT data to find possible problems before they cause failures. This not only helps to minimize downtime but also guarantees that cars stay in best shape, therefore saving running expenses. Vehicle Telematics and Data Analytics Telematics systems driven by satellite for cars provide thorough understanding of vehicle use and performance. These technologies let companies and people track driving behavior, evaluate fuel usage, and maximize general efficiency by sending data straight from the car to analytical platforms. While individual drivers may utilize the information to make wise choices regarding vehicle maintenance and fuel efficiency, fleet owners can examine acceleration and braking patterns to improve driving behaviors. Enabling Autonomous Vehicles Satellite technology is essential to guarantee that autonomous driving cars stay connected and functional as the automobile sector advances in this direction. To analyze real-time data, autonomous cars rely on ongoing contact with cloud systems and other automobiles. The required worldwide connection comes via satellite networks, which also guarantee flawless operation of autonomous systems in rural areas and metropolitan hubs. Furthermore supported by satellite technology is geofencing, which lets operators manage autonomous vehicle movements and create virtual borders. Conclusion Satellite technology is revolutionizing the automotive sector, offering a wide range of applications that enhance safety, connectivity, and efficiency. From real-time navigation and advanced driver assistance to fleet management and infotainment, the potential of satellites in cars is immense. As the industry continues to innovate, the integration of satellite technology will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of driving experiences, ensuring that connectivity and convenience are accessible to all. Related Items: Car , satellite technology Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Scrapping a car: How will I dispose of my old car in 2025? How to Choose a Used Car for a Beginner Car Loan Interest Rates Explained: How to Get the Best Deal CommentsHow major US stock indexes fared Monday, 12/9/2024
Forget predictable gifts—this year, it’s about gear that works as hard as it looks. Oakley has mastered the art of merging technical innovation with head-turning design, crafting pieces that excel in any environment. From weatherproof outerwear to eyewear that’s as functional as it is futuristic, these picks are made for those who refuse to compromise on performance or style. In our newest Hypebeast Gift Guide, we’ve curated standout Oakley products that make perfect sense for the boundary-pushers and style leaders in your life. Latitude Flex Tech Jacket The Latitude Flex Tech Jacket is built for those unpredictable days when the weather won’t cooperate. Insulated, laminated corduroy keeps you warm, while taped seams and waterproof zippers lock out moisture. Zippered side vents offer quick cooling, and details like thumbhole cuffs and abrasion-resistant elbows blend durability with style. Perfect for braving storms or elevating streetwear, it’s made for those who demand everyday reliability with a sleek edge. Latitude Flex Vest Why choose between storage and style? The Latitude Flex Vest delivers both, with smart pockets for easy organization and the ability to transform into a backpack. Adjustable straps ensure a snug fit, while waterproof zippers protect your essentials. The magnetic Fidlock sternum strap offers quick, secure closure, making it a versatile pick for urban explorers and outdoor lovers alike. Make it your pick for those who value timeless multifunctional gear. Art of Oakley Tee Shirt The Art of Oakley Tee is a nod to Oakley’s legacy of blending cutting-edge design with everyday wearability. Soft, breathable, and expertly crafted, it offers a streamlined fit that’s both comfortable and stylish. Ideal for those who want their casual wardrobe to reflect a love for innovation and artful graphics. Available in stores only. Soho Po Hoodie 3.0 Effortless style meets everyday comfort in the Soho Po Hoodie 3.0 . Made from soft French terry, this hoodie features a unique wash effect for a cool, worn-in vibe. The relaxed fit, kangaroo pocket, and ribbed details make it perfect for layering or lounging. Whether heading out for a coffee run or winding down after a long day, it’s a cozy, stylish addition to any wardrobe. Give this piece to anyone who prioritizes comfort without compromising aesthetics. Plantaris Sunglasses The Plantaris Sunglasses boldly blend organic design with modern innovation. Inspired by nature’s fluid lines, they feature flexible silicone stems, a sturdy titanium core for a personalized fit, and Prizm lenses for enhanced clarity and protection. The pair is definitely for those who value unique, high-performance accessories. Players Collection Chaminade Sunglasses The Players Collection Chaminade Sunglasses add star power to any outfit. Inspired by athletes who own their style on and off the field, these shades feature bold colors and sleek frames that shine at both high-profile events and casual outings. With Oakley’s signature lens technology and standout design, they’ll be appreciated by the most discerning eyewear enthusiasts. Limited Edition Factory Team Jacquard Chop Saw Sneaker The Oakley Factory Team Jacquard Chop Saw steps back into the spotlight with a limited-edition graphite and green colorway. Featuring a serrated eyelet plaque and a robust, sculpted sole, this shoe delivers standout support and grip. Thoughtfully made for those who gravitate towards versatility, this exclusive release ensures you’ll stand out whether on the streets or the trails.
The technology, pioneered by road safety firm Acusensus, detects road use and behaviour consistent with drivers who may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This information is communicated in real-time to police officers at a nearby location, who can then pull the vehicle over and conduct further enquiries – potentially including roadside impairment testing for drugs and alcohol. The camera system, which is based on the existing mobile phone and seatbelt technology, is relocatable and can be moved to different locations across the region where Devon & Cornwall Police have intelligence about potential drink or drug driving offences. The system will also provide Devon & Cornwall Police with intelligence around vehicles which may be driven by impaired drivers. The trial is taking place throughout December to coincide with other drink-driving campaigns such as Lift Legend, Operation Limit and new Night Bus services in parts of Torbay and North Devon. It's all part of Vision Zero South West's efforts to reduce incidents of impaired driving and cut the number of people killed or seriously injured on Devon & Cornwall's roads. The technology detects road use and behaviour consistent with drivers who may be... Emma FergusonNebraska’s sprawling football operation arrives in New York City ahead of Pinstripe Bowl