Rice into low-carbon plastic: bringing hope to a struggling Fukushima town

14 Sept 01:40 Key points summarised by AI

A new venture in Namie, Fukushima, transforms locally-grown rice, unsellable for consumption due to post-disaster health concerns, into low-carbon plastic pellets.
This initiative provides a crucial economic boost for the struggling town, creating jobs and a steady market for local farmers over a decade after the nuclear disaster.
The rice-based plastic significantly reduces reliance on petroleum products and contributes to lower atmospheric CO2, with experts confirming the material's safety.
The project offers renewed hope and a sustainable path for Namie's recovery, empowering residents and revitalizing the community.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.