Showing posts with label Open society. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Open society. Show all posts

04 February, 2025

Main Thing in the Republic

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

We need to position ourselves as know-how regarding green transformation or high-tech, but direct capital investments mostly enter the financial sector. It's been like that for decades. Will we be like Switzerland, in this undefined region? — neutral and financially superior?

Perhaps a strong financial sector is a prerequisite for major projects, but it should not be the main focus of the Republic.  

We definitely need to focus more on green & digital takeover during daytime - and not to watch gaming and gambling funny circus 🎪

31 January, 2025

Amazing Four Emerging Economies and Geopolitical Influencers

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

The global power balance is shifting, and four major players are shaping the future. These emerging economic and geopolitical influencers—Latin America, the African Union, India, and China—are transforming global trade, technology, and diplomacy. Here’s why they matter

1. Latin America: A Region on the Rise

Latin America is evolving beyond its traditional role as a resource exporter. Countries like Mexico and Brazil are boosting manufacturing and tech industries, while the Lithium Triangle (Argentina, Bolivia, Chile) is critical for the EV revolution. Trade ties with China, the U.S., and the EU are strengthening, and regional blocs like MERCOSUR and the Pacific Alliance are driving economic integration. Despite political instability and inequality, the region's urbanization, digital transformation, and renewable energy push make it a rising force.

2. African Union: A Continent’s Economic Awakening

With 1.4 billion people and vast natural resources, Africa is positioning itself as a key player in global trade. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is the world’s largest free trade area, aiming to unify economies. Tech hubs in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are driving innovation, while foreign investments—especially from China and the EU—fuel infrastructure growth. While governance challenges remain, Africa’s young population and economic potential make it a powerhouse in the making.

3. India: The World’s Fastest-Growing Major Economy

India’s rapid economic expansion, booming digital economy, and manufacturing shift (as companies diversify away from China) are redefining global trade. Its 1.4 billion people, thriving startup scene, and renewable energy push make it an economic giant. Politically, India is strengthening global alliances, balancing ties with the West and BRICS nations while asserting its influence in the Indo-Pacific region. With a mix of democracy, demographic advantage, and technological growth, India is a rising global leader.

4. China: The Superpower in Transformation

China is the second-largest economy, leading in AI, manufacturing, and green technology. Despite economic slowdowns and geopolitical tensions, China remains a global trade giant and a dominant force in infrastructure diplomacy through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Its shift toward domestic consumption, high-tech industries, and military modernization ensures its continued global influence. As it navigates economic and political shifts, China’s role as a geopolitical heavyweight remains unchallenged.

Final Thoughts

Each of these four players is shaping the 21st century in unique ways. Latin America is leveraging trade and resources, the African Union is unlocking its economic potential, India is emerging as a technology and manufacturing hub, and China continues to dominate global supply chains and diplomacy. Together, they represent the future of economic and geopolitical power.

Special thanks to ChatGPT for insights and research on emerging economies and geopolitical shifts. Your AI-powered analysis keeps things sharp, engaging, and on point!

27 January, 2025

Cooking at Home is Better Than Ordering Food

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

Nowadays, it's trendy to make food without glitz. Simple, modern dishes. It's different for vegetarian people like me, like vegetarian for ten years, since I'm careful about what I'm eating. To cook half an hour — cuz imagine how difficult to cook in summer, with all those heat waves coming up. Boiled food is usually healthier than grilled - soups, stews, like they dine in total institutions. It's better for the air conditioner, too.



26 January, 2025

𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙂𝙋𝙏 / Unveiling the Hidden Workforce: Tackling Inactivity in Croatia's Labor Market // Introduction ///

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/
  • Introduction
  • The Inactivity Problem: A Snapshot
  • Systemic Influences: Big Pharma, Big Tobacco, and Big Oil
  • Breaking the Cycle: Solutions for a Sustainable Future
  • Conclusion


According to the 2021 Census data released by the Croatian Bureau of Statistics, the educational attainment of Croatia's population aged 15 and over is as follows:

  • Elementary education or less: 20.4%
  • Secondary education: 55.5%
  • Higher education: 24.1%

These figures indicate a significant improvement over the past decades. In 1961, over 85% of the population had only elementary education or less, while just 12.6% had completed secondary education, and a mere 1.8% had higher education. By 2021, the share of the population with higher education had risen to 24.1%, reflecting a continuous increase in educational attainment.

Regionally, the City of Zagreb leads with 39.1% of its population having completed higher education, followed by Primorje-Gorski Kotar County at 28.1% and Dubrovnik-Neretva County at 26.8%. In contrast, Virovitica-Podravina County has the lowest share at 13.1%, with Bjelovar-Bilogora County at 14.5% and Brod-Posavina County at 14.9%.

Additionally, Croatia ranks among the top in the European Union for the percentage of young people aged 20–24 who have attained at least upper secondary education. In 2021, all four Croatian regions reported very high shares, placing the country alongside Ireland and Greece in this regard.

These trends highlight Croatia's ongoing progress in enhancing educational attainment across its population.

In 2023, the employment rate for recent higher education graduates (aged 20-34) was 84.4%, which is below the EU average of 87.7% but represents a 3.7 percentage point increase from 2022.

The labor force participation rate also varies with educational attainment. In 2023, individuals with higher education comprised 32.8% of the labor force, while those with only elementary education or less accounted for 5.2%. Notably, the share of individuals with vocational school education was the largest, at 58.6%.

These statistics underscore the positive correlation between higher educational attainment and improved employment opportunities in Croatia.

Vocational school education is considered a form of secondary education. Secondary education typically includes general secondary schools (such as grammar schools or "gymnasiums") and vocational schools. In Croatia, vocational schools prepare students for specific trades or professions and are a key part of the secondary education system.

The main types of secondary education in Croatia are:

  1. Gymnasium (General Secondary Education): Focused on preparing students for higher education with a broad curriculum.
  2. Vocational Schools: Offering specialized training for various trades and professions, such as technical, medical, or arts-focused programs. These can vary in length, typically lasting 3-4 years.

Both types of education provide students with qualifications for further studies or entry into the labor market, with vocational education directly linked to specific occupational skills.

The system where vocational school students alternate between theoretical learning in schools and practical experience in business entities is often referred to as the dual education system. It is a structured approach used in several countries, including Croatia, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. While the intention is to equip students with job-ready skills and real-world experience, the system must ensure that the line between practical education and child labor is not blurred. Here’s my perspective:

Positive Aspects:

  1. Skill Development: Hands-on experience allows students to gain practical knowledge and develop job-specific skills that may be harder to acquire in a purely academic setting.
  2. Employment Readiness: Students are better prepared for the workforce, often leading to higher employability rates after graduation.
  3. Industry Engagement: Businesses can shape students' skills to match real-world demands, creating a smoother transition from school to work.
  4. Economic Benefits: It reduces skill mismatches, which benefits both students and employers, contributing to a stronger economy.

Risks and Concerns:

  1. Exploitation Potential: If businesses treat students as a cheap labor source rather than providing genuine educational experiences, it becomes exploitative. This is especially problematic if students perform tasks unrelated to their field of study or without adequate supervision.
  2. Workplace Safety: Students are often minors and may lack the training or maturity to navigate workplace hazards safely, increasing the risk of accidents.
  3. Balance of Responsibilities: The dual system should ensure that students' primary focus remains on education, not excessive workplace obligations.
  4. Fair Compensation: While the system involves learning through practice, students should receive fair compensation or benefits for their contributions to the business.

Recommendations for Ethical Implementation:

  1. Strict Regulations: Governments should enforce laws to prevent businesses from exploiting students and ensure that their work aligns with educational goals.
  2. Monitoring and Accountability: Schools and regulatory bodies should frequently assess the quality of training provided by businesses to ensure compliance.
  3. Workload Management: Practical work hours should be limited to ensure students have enough time and energy for academic learning and personal development.
  4. Incorporate Feedback: Students should have a platform to report issues or concerns related to their practical training.

When well-regulated, such programs can be highly beneficial for students, businesses, and society. However, unchecked practices risk undermining the system's educational purpose and exploiting young individuals.

The high rate of inactivity among the working-age population in Croatia, specifically those aged 20 to 64, reflects a significant socio-economic challenge. Inactivity refers to individuals who are neither employed nor actively seeking work and, therefore, are not included in labor force statistics. This group represents a considerable portion of the population, often referred to as being "erased from the system" and outside the labor market.

Possible Reasons for Inactivity:

  1. Education and Training: Younger individuals may still be pursuing their education or undergoing vocational training.
  2. Care Responsibilities: Many, especially women, might be engaged in unpaid caregiving for children, elderly family members, or others.
  3. Health Issues: Chronic illnesses or disabilities can limit participation in the labor market.
  4. Discouragement: Long-term unemployment often leads to discouragement, resulting in people stopping their job search altogether.
  5. Migration: Emigration, particularly among younger Croatians, contributes to the perception of inactivity as these individuals leave the domestic labor force.
  6. Informal Economy: Some may work informally, thus not appearing in official labor market data.
  7. Early Retirement: Croatia’s policies enabling early retirement further increase inactivity among older adults in this age group.

Impacts of Inactivity:

  1. Economic Growth: A smaller active workforce limits productivity and economic expansion.
  2. Social Exclusion: Inactivity often correlates with poverty, social exclusion, and reduced access to essential services.
  3. Demographic Pressure: An aging population combined with a high rate of inactivity in the working-age group intensifies the strain on the economy.
  4. Fiscal Challenges: Inactive individuals rely more on social assistance while contributing less to tax revenues, creating pressure on public finances.

Addressing Inactivity:

  1. Labor Market Policies: Implementing retraining and upskilling programs that align with labor market needs.
  2. Support for Caregivers: Enhancing access to affordable childcare and eldercare services to encourage workforce participation.
  3. Encouraging Formal Work: Incentivizing transitions from the informal to the formal economy through tax breaks and legal reforms.
  4. Flexible Work Options: Promoting part-time and remote work to accommodate caregivers and those with health issues.
  5. Reintegration Efforts: Targeted initiatives to re-engage discouraged workers, such as counseling and financial incentives.

By implementing inclusive policies and initiatives, Croatia can tap into the potential of this inactive population, contributing to economic growth and reducing the socio-economic divide.

Addressing the problem of inactivity among the working-age population in Croatia—or globally—is a multifaceted challenge that involves systemic change across multiple sectors. Tackling the influence of industries like Big Pharma, Big Tobacco, and Big Oil, along with transitioning away from fossil fuels, can indirectly contribute to solving this issue by creating healthier societies, sustainable economies, and more inclusive labor markets. Here’s how:


1. Big Pharma and Public Health

  • Current Issues:

    • High healthcare costs and a focus on profit over public health can limit access to essential services, leaving many individuals unable to work due to untreated health issues.
    • Overprescription of medications, particularly opioids, contributes to health problems that reduce workforce participation.
  • Solutions:

    • Strengthen public healthcare systems to ensure affordable, accessible care for all, reducing health-related inactivity.
    • Promote preventive healthcare and mental health initiatives, enabling individuals to remain active in the labor force.

2. Big Tobacco and Healthier Populations

  • Current Issues:

    • Smoking-related illnesses contribute to early morbidity and reduced labor force participation.
    • Marketing by Big Tobacco often targets vulnerable populations, perpetuating health inequities.
  • Solutions:

    • Implement stricter regulations on tobacco products and redirect taxes from these products to fund public health campaigns.
    • Support smoking cessation programs to improve health outcomes and workforce engagement.

3. Big Oil and the Transition to Renewable Energy

  • Current Issues:

    • Reliance on fossil fuels contributes to climate change, which disrupts economies, exacerbates health issues, and affects jobs (e.g., in agriculture).
    • Fossil fuel industries often prioritize automation or outsourcing, reducing local job opportunities.
  • Solutions:

    • Invest in renewable energy sectors, which tend to create more jobs per dollar spent compared to fossil fuels.
    • Develop green jobs programs to reskill workers from fossil fuel-dependent industries, integrating them into the labor market.

4. Breaking Up with Fossil Fuels

  • Current Issues:

    • Fossil fuel dependency sustains environmentally damaging practices that undermine public health and economic stability.
    • Extreme weather events linked to climate change disproportionately affect the poorest and most vulnerable workers.
  • Solutions:

    • Foster a just transition to renewable energy, ensuring affected workers receive retraining and support.
    • Support green infrastructure projects, which can create employment opportunities while addressing climate goals.

How These Changes Solve Inactivity:

  1. Healthier Workforce: Public health improvements and reduced exposure to harmful substances enable more people to remain active in the workforce.
  2. Job Creation: Transitioning to sustainable energy and breaking up monopolistic industries open new avenues for employment.
  3. Economic Diversification: Reducing reliance on extractive or harmful industries helps create a resilient economy with diverse job opportunities.
  4. Social Equity: Investments in healthcare, education, and green jobs address systemic inequalities, empowering marginalized groups to participate in the labor market.
  5. Long-Term Sustainability: A shift to renewable energy and sustainable practices ensures a stable environment for future workforce growth.

These systemic changes require political will, public advocacy, and international cooperation but hold the potential to address the root causes of inactivity while building healthier, fairer, and more sustainable societies.

Acknowledgment: This blog post was developed with the assistance of ChatGPT, an AI language model created by OpenAI. The insights provided were based on data and discussions facilitated by this tool.

20 January, 2025

Innovations That Could Change the Future in the Metropolitan Area

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

Instead of seeing city-center a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL)  airports as "impossible," think of them as the next frontier in mobility—one that requires bold investment, smart design, and an iterative approach. Placing vertiports on top of buildings is one of the most practical and forward-thinking solutions. Here’s why it works and how it can be implemented effectively:

Why Building-Topped Vertiports Make Sense

  • Efficient Use of Space: In crowded urban areas, rooftops are underutilized real estate. A vertiport adds functionality without taking up valuable ground-level space.
  • Proximity to Users: High-rise buildings in city centers are often near businesses, residences, and transit hubs, reducing travel time for passengers.
  • Integration with Urban Mobility: Vertiports can connect directly to elevators, parking garages, or subway stations, creating seamless travel experiences.

Real-World Examples

  • Volocopter: Testing vertiports on buildings in cities like Singapore.
  • Joby Aviation: Exploring partnerships with urban planners to integrate vertiports with existing infrastructure.
  • Skyports Infrastructure: Designing rooftop vertiports for London and other major cities.

By combining your rooftop idea with cutting-edge tech, we can transform city skylines into hubs of futuristic transportation. Paromlinska, being near Importanne Centar, is centrally located and well-connected to public transit. It could serve as a major hub for urban air mobility in Zagreb. Imagine passengers seamlessly transferring from trams or trains below to VTOL aircraft above—pure urban innovation!


Visual representation of the futuristic rooftop vertiport concept near Zagreb city Center!

As of 2021, China has 17 cities with populations exceeding 10 million. This significant number of megacities highlights China's rapid urbanization and economic growth over recent decades.

Large-scale urban redevelopment and relocation projects are relatively common in China, especially in rapidly growing cities. The government often undertakes these projects to modernize infrastructure, improve living standards, and address issues like overcrowding, aging buildings, and poor sanitation. Here's how it ties into the problem of pests like cockroaches and rats:


Why Relocate Entire Neighborhoods?

  1. Urban Renewal:

    • Many old neighborhoods, especially in inner-city areas, consist of poorly maintained buildings with outdated infrastructure.
    • These areas often become breeding grounds for pests like rats and cockroaches due to inadequate waste management and sanitation.
  2. Health and Hygiene:

    • Replacing dilapidated housing with modern buildings that meet stricter hygiene standards significantly reduces pest problems.
    • Improved urban planning allows for better waste disposal systems, pest control, and public health measures.
  3. Economic Growth and Aesthetics:

    • Redevelopment projects create modern business districts, high-rise apartments, and green spaces, which boost the local economy and improve the city's appearance.

How Are People Relocated?

  • Compensation and Resettlement: Residents are often compensated with cash or offered housing in new developments.
  • Challenges: While some welcome the improvements, others may resist relocation due to cultural ties, inadequate compensation, or loss of community.
  • Efficiency: Large-scale relocations are enabled by China's centralized governance, allowing decisions and projects to be implemented quickly.

Impact on Pests

  1. Short-Term Spike in Pests:

    • Demolition of old neighborhoods can temporarily displace rats and cockroaches, pushing them into surrounding areas.
    • Careful pest control measures are required during the transition.
  2. Long-Term Solutions:

    • Modern buildings with sealed walls, proper ventilation, and waste disposal systems make it harder for pests to thrive.
    • Organized urban layouts allow for easier pest control and sanitation.

This approach is part of China's rapid modernization, but it also comes with social, economic, and environmental challenges. 

I think it's necessary, as long 
they keep up with the highest 
standards, like no concrete, 
zero carbon waste, neighborhoods 
full of greenery. Large-scale 
urban redevelopment and 
relocation projects in 
EU - impossible, or what?

Large-scale urban redevelopment and relocation projects in the EU can be incredibly complex, but they’re not impossible. These projects often face challenges such as political resistance, legal hurdles, public opposition, and financial constraints. However, in recent years, there have been examples of ambitious urban transformations, driven by factors like climate change, sustainability goals, population growth, and the need for modernization of infrastructure.

Some key factors to consider when evaluating the feasibility of these projects include:

  1. Political Will and Public Support: Successful large-scale projects often depend on strong political backing and public consensus. Governments need to align with local communities and stakeholders, ensuring that the benefits outweigh the costs and social impacts.

  2. Legal and Regulatory Framework: The EU has a complex set of regulations on zoning, environmental impact assessments, and housing laws. Any major redevelopment must comply with local, national, and EU-wide laws, which can slow down or complicate efforts.

  3. Funding: Large-scale urban projects often require substantial investment. Public-private partnerships, EU funding, and national budgets are typically involved, but securing financing can be a long process, especially for projects that aim to address social and environmental issues.

  4. Sustainability Goals: With the EU’s Green Deal, there's an increasing push for projects to be sustainable and climate-friendly. Redevelopment projects that incorporate renewable energy, green spaces, and resilient infrastructure are more likely to succeed and align with EU policies.

  5. Innovation and Technology: New technologies like modular housing, smart cities, and green building practices can help reduce costs and timeframes for large projects, making them more viable.

While these projects are challenging, with the right conditions and strategic planning, they can be both feasible and necessary for the future of urban environments in the EU. Examples include regeneration projects in cities like Hamburg, Barcelona, and Paris, which have undertaken large-scale transformations.

What about Croatia? 
People need to feel 
the new Millennium, 
not just hear hammering 
pounding!

Croatia faces its own set of challenges when it comes to large-scale urban redevelopment and relocation projects, but there are certainly opportunities for a fresh, modern approach that could make people feel the shift into the new millennium. The key is balancing the preservation of Croatia’s rich heritage with forward-thinking projects that prioritize sustainability, inclusivity, and the well-being of its citizens.

Some thoughts on what Croatia could do:

  1. Sustainability and Climate Resilience: Given Croatia's vulnerability to climate change and the EU's strong push for green initiatives, large-scale urban redevelopment could focus on creating eco-friendly cities. Incorporating green roofs, renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and flood protection would make the projects not just feel modern but also vital for the future.

  2. Smart Cities: Zagreb and other cities could develop smart city infrastructures, using technologies to improve urban life—smart lighting, waste management, and digital services. This would allow citizens to feel they’re living in a 21st-century environment, fostering innovation while improving quality of life.

  3. Cultural and Community Involvement: It’s crucial that people aren’t just passive recipients of development but are actively involved in the process. Engaging citizens through consultations and participatory design can ensure that redevelopment reflects their desires and needs. By incorporating local culture and identity into modern designs, people would be more likely to embrace change.

  4. Public Spaces and Green Areas: A focus on creating vibrant public spaces, parks, and pedestrian zones could transform how citizens experience their cities. Urban redevelopment can include the creation of cultural and recreational hubs, promoting a sense of community and well-being.

  5. Urban Mobility: Modernizing public transport systems and encouraging cycling and walking would not only reduce traffic and pollution but also foster a sense of connection and ease of movement. This could be complemented by the development of vertical transport hubs, like the rooftop vertiport you envision near Paromlinska.

  6. Affordable Housing and Inclusivity: With Croatia's relatively high urbanization rate, redevelopment can address the need for affordable housing, ensuring that all social groups can benefit from modern urban spaces. Redevelopment could also include job creation and social services, improving overall quality of life.

Large-scale redevelopment should not just be about “hammering and pounding”—it should be about making cities feel like a place people can be proud of, where technology, culture, sustainability, and community intersect. By leveraging EU funding and aligning with European urban policies, Croatia can move into the new millennium in a way that makes people feel the difference, not just see it.





"In developing ideas for this article, I explored various perspectives, including those generated with the assistance of AI tools like ChatGPT, which helped inspire some of the key concepts discussed here."

New Cryptocurrencies

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

The problem lies with the police force itself — they need bigger budget to fight against criminals in Darknet. Cryptocurrency will bring them fresh capital, not only from banks and investment funds, but also from small local businesses.

The image of cryptocurrencies battling the darknet in a cyberpunk digital world.


06 January, 2025

Interview With the Grok - X (Twitter) AI Chatbot

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

How come a person can buy/sell marijuana legally?

The legality of buying and selling marijuana varies significantly by jurisdiction, influenced by both state or local laws and, in some cases, federal legislation. Here's a breakdown of how this works in different contexts:

In the United States:

  • State Laws: Marijuana for recreational use has been legalized in several states, with 24 states plus the District of Columbia, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and U.S. Virgin Islands having laws that allow for recreational marijuana use as of 2025. States like Colorado, California, and Oregon were pioneers in this regard. Medical marijuana is legal in 39 states. The legal framework for buying and selling marijuana in these states includes:
    • Licensing: Businesses must obtain licenses from the state to sell marijuana. These licenses come with regulations on where and how marijuana can be sold.
    • Possession Limits: There are limits on how much an individual can legally possess for personal use, which varies by state. For example, in Colorado, adults over 21 can buy up to one ounce of marijuana at a time.
    • Age Restrictions: Sales are typically restricted to adults over 21 for recreational use and sometimes to those with medical prescriptions for medical use.
    • Sales Tax: Legal sales are subject to taxes which vary by state, sometimes including an excise tax specifically for marijuana.
  • Federal Law: Despite state-level legalization, marijuana remains a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act at the federal level, meaning it's considered to have no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. This creates a legal gray area where:
    • Interstate Commerce: Transporting marijuana across state lines remains illegal under federal law, which can complicate matters for businesses or individuals moving between states with different marijuana laws.
    • Banking: Financial institutions are often wary of dealing with marijuana businesses due to federal restrictions, leading to many operating on a cash-only basis.

In Canada:

  • Federal Legalization: Since October 2018, Canada has legalized marijuana for both medical and recreational use across the country. This means:
    • Regulated Sales: Cannabis can be legally bought from authorized retailers, either in-store or online from provincially or territorially regulated sellers.
    • Possession Limits: Adults can legally possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis in public.
    • Home Cultivation: Adults can grow up to four cannabis plants at home for personal use.

Globally:

  • Laws vary widely. Some countries have followed suit with legalization (like Uruguay and parts of Australia for medical use), while others have decriminalized personal use or have no legal penalties for certain amounts. However, in many places, all forms of marijuana use, sale, and cultivation remain illegal.

Why Legalization Happens:

  • Public Opinion: Growing acceptance of marijuana's use, particularly for medical purposes, has led to changes in laws.
  • Economic Benefits: Legal markets generate tax revenue and can reduce costs associated with law enforcement and incarceration.
  • Social Justice: There's a movement to address the disproportionate impact of marijuana laws on certain communities.

However, these changes are often accompanied by strict regulations to control quality, prevent access by minors, and manage public health implications. Remember, the specifics can change with new legislation or court rulings, so staying updated with local laws is crucial.

- Grok, the AI chatbot developed by xAI, responded  


Question: »Can you tell me about the growth of independent voices via podcasts, on the other hand the rising influence of artificial intelligence?«

Grok's Response: »The growth of independent voices via podcasts and the rising influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in this domain are two significant trends reshaping the audio content landscape.

Growth of Independent Voices via Podcasts:

  • Increased Accessibility: Podcasting has become more accessible than ever, allowing individuals to share their voices, opinions, and stories without the need for traditional media gatekeepers. This has democratized content creation, leading to a surge in niche markets where creators can cater to specific audiences. The ease of distribution through platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and others has further facilitated this growth.
  • Diverse Content: There's a notable expansion in the variety of content available, from personal narratives to detailed investigative journalism, which traditional media might not cover. This diversity is driven by independent creators who can focus on underrepresented topics or perspectives.
  • Monetization and Sustainability: While monetizing podcasts remains a challenge, the rise of sponsorships, listener donations, and premium content has supported the financial sustainability for many independent creators. AI tools are also starting to play a role in this by improving efficiency in production, thus indirectly supporting growth.

Rising Influence of Artificial Intelligence:

  • Content Creation: AI is increasingly used in podcast production for tasks like transcription, editing, and even generating content. Tools like AI voice synthesis are becoming more sophisticated, potentially allowing for personalized content or AI-hosted podcasts. This technology can save time and reduce costs, making podcasting more viable for independent creators.
  • Audience Interaction: AI's ability to analyze listener data can lead to hyper-personalized content, recommending episodes based on individual preferences or even creating dynamic content that adapts to listener feedback in real-time. This could significantly enhance the listener experience and engagement.
  • Ethical and Quality Considerations: There's a dual-edged sword with AI in podcasting. On one hand, it offers immense potential for innovation; on the other, there are concerns about authenticity, job displacement in voice acting, and the potential for misinformation via deepfake audio. Ethical considerations around AI-generated content are also becoming more prominent.
  • AI in Advertising: AI is transforming podcast advertising by enabling more targeted ads and even generating host-read ads in the voice of the original host, which can be more engaging for listeners but raises questions about consent and authenticity.

In summary, the growth of podcasts has empowered independent voices, offering a platform where they can thrive outside traditional media structures. Simultaneously, AI's influence is growing by making content production more efficient, personalizing listener experiences, and introducing new forms of content and advertising. However, this integration of AI also brings challenges that the industry must navigate regarding ethics, quality, and authenticity.«


Question: »What's the future of holograms?«

Grok's Response: »The future of holograms appears to be promising, with advancements in technology suggesting a broad spectrum of applications across various industries:
  • Entertainment and Advertising: Holograms are poised to revolutionize live performances, allowing for the digital resurrection of deceased artists for concerts, as seen with past holographic performances of Tupac and Michael Jackson. This technology could extend to interactive experiences in advertising, where products can be displayed in 3D, enhancing consumer engagement.
  • Telecommunication and Telepresence: Holographic technology is expected to transform communication by enabling holographic telepresence, where individuals can interact with life-sized 3D images in real time. This could significantly improve the quality of remote meetings, education, and telemedicine by providing a more natural and immersive interaction.
  • Medical and Scientific Visualization: In healthcare, holograms could enhance surgical planning and medical education by providing detailed 3D models of human anatomy or disease states. For scientific research, holography might allow for more intuitive data visualization, aiding in complex decision-making and analysis in fields like climate science or aerospace engineering.
  • Gaming and Interactive Media: The integration of holograms in gaming could lead to highly immersive experiences where environments and characters materialize in 3D space, offering new levels of interaction not possible with current 2D screens.
  • Retail and Design: Holography can be utilized for product visualization, allowing customers to view products from all angles before purchase or enabling architects to walk clients through 3D models of buildings.

However, several challenges need addressing for widespread adoption:

  • Technical Barriers: Current hologram technology often relies on screens or specific conditions to create the illusion of 3D, rather than true, free-floating images. The development of light field displays and volumetric displays without the need for special glasses is still in progress.
  • Cost and Accessibility: While costs are decreasing, high-quality holographic setups remain expensive, limiting their consumer and even some commercial applications. As technology matures, costs are expected to fall, broadening accessibility.
  • Computational and Data Challenges: Creating realistic holograms in real-time requires immense computing power and efficient data transmission solutions. Advances in machine learning and neural networks are helping, but more breakthroughs are needed for seamless integration into daily life.
  • Societal Impact: There's an ongoing discussion about the psychological and social effects of interacting with holograms, particularly in terms of human connection and the potential for misuse or misinformation through highly realistic digital representations.

The trajectory of hologram technology suggests an exciting future where what was once science fiction could become part of everyday life, although the pace of this integration will depend on overcoming the technical and economic hurdles. Posts on X indicate public fascination and speculation about holograms becoming as ubiquitous as current digital interfaces, hinting at a future where holograms are seamlessly integrated into various aspects of life.«


Question: »Augmented reality?«

Grok's Response: »Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information or images onto the physical world, enhancing one's interaction with and perception of the real environment. This can include visual, auditory, haptic, or other sensory enhancements. AR differs from Virtual Reality (VR), which immerses users in a completely digital environment, as AR adds to the existing reality rather than replacing it.

Current Applications and Use Cases:

  • Gaming: AR games like Pokémon Go have popularized the technology by allowing players to interact with virtual elements in real-world settings.
  • Retail: AR helps customers visualize products in their own space before buying, as seen with IKEA's AR app for furniture placement.
  • Education: AR can make learning interactive, from exploring historical sites with overlays of past civilizations to using AR for anatomy lessons in medical education.
  • Manufacturing and Industry: AR is used for training, maintenance, and assembly by providing step-by-step visual guides or overlaying information about machinery directly in the field of view.
  • Navigation: Car windshields with head-up displays utilize AR to project navigation information onto the road ahead.
  • Healthcare: AR aids in surgeries, offering surgeons real-time visual guides or displaying patient data directly in their line of sight.

Technological Developments:

  • Hardware: AR devices are evolving from bulky headsets to more practical solutions like AR glasses. NVIDIA has patented a new AR glasses design using digital holography for better visuals and power efficiency.
  • Software: Advances in software, like Apple's ARKit and Google's ARCore, are making AR more accessible for developers, thereby increasing the number of AR applications available on mobile devices.
  • Algorithms: There have been developments in AR algorithms, such as those that speed up the generation of visual content through parallelized autoregressive techniques.

Future Trends:

  • Integration with Everyday Life: AR is expected to become more seamlessly integrated into daily activities, from shopping to education, with devices like smart glasses potentially becoming as commonplace as smartphones.
  • Enhanced Interactivity: Future AR might combine with AI for more personalized and interactive experiences, potentially allowing for real-time translation of signs or interactive storytelling.
  • Industry 4.0: AR is seen as a key technology in the fourth industrial revolution, aiding in smart manufacturing, logistics, and service industries by improving efficiency and reducing errors.
  • Challenges: Privacy concerns, data security, and the need for more natural interaction methods (like better hand tracking or voice commands) are ongoing challenges that need resolution for widespread adoption.

Market and Adoption: The AR market is growing, with forecasts predicting significant expansion. The technology's integration into business strategies is becoming more critical, with organizations encouraged to develop AR strategies to stay competitive.

The landscape of AR technology continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of how we interact with the world around us, with new applications and hardware innovations appearing regularly.«


Question: »How do I become more productive to solve global problems like world hunger, climate emergency?«

Grok's Response: »To become more productive in addressing global issues like world hunger and the climate emergency, consider the following strategies, which are informed by various initiatives and insights from organizations tackling these problems:

Education and Awareness:

  • Educate Yourself: Begin by deepening your understanding of these issues through reliable sources. Organizations like the World Food Programme (WFP), World Vision, and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) provide extensive resources on hunger and climate change. This knowledge will guide your actions and help you educate others.

Skill Development:

  • Learn Relevant Skills: Acquire skills that are directly applicable to these problems. For instance, learning about sustainable agriculture, climate-smart practices, or policy advocacy can be transformative. Courses or resources from institutions like FAO and NGOs focusing on climate action can be very beneficial.

Engagement and Collaboration:

  • Join or Support Organizations: Connect with or volunteer for organizations that work on these issues. Groups like Concern Worldwide, Mercy Corps, and the Borgen Project offer opportunities to engage in both direct action and advocacy. This not only increases your impact but also provides a network for learning and collaboration.
  • Collaborative Efforts: Work with others to multiply your effectiveness. Collaborative projects can lead to innovative solutions. The World Economic Forum emphasizes the importance of collective action in climate initiatives, which can be mirrored in hunger solutions.

Innovation and Advocacy:

  • Innovate or Support Innovation: Look for or contribute to innovations in food production, like climate-smart agriculture or urban farming, which can address both hunger and climate resilience. Initiatives like those by USAID and the CGIAR focus on agricultural innovation to combat hunger.
  • Advocacy: Use your voice to advocate for policies that address these global crises. This can involve writing to representatives, participating in campaigns, or supporting movements that push for systemic change. The New Internationalist suggests policy changes like anti-trust legislation for food conglomerates.

Personal Lifestyle Changes:

  • Reduce Waste: Implement changes in your daily life to reduce food waste, which ties into both hunger and climate issues. Greenpeace UK discusses how reducing consumption and waste can aid in climate change efforts.
  • Sustainable Living: Adopt a lifestyle that supports sustainable practices, like reducing meat consumption or using renewable energy, as suggested by several sources for both health and environmental benefits.

Funding and Resource Management:

  • Fundraising or Donating: If direct action isn't possible, consider fundraising or donating to organizations that align with your goals. Small donations can have a significant impact, especially when pooled with many others. For instance, the Borgen Project highlights the impact of food drives.

Measurement and Adaptation:

  • Set Goals and Review: Set specific, measurable goals for what you want to achieve in terms of productivity. Regularly review these goals to adapt strategies based on what's working or not, ensuring continuous improvement.

By integrating these strategies, you can enhance your productivity in tackling global challenges like hunger and climate change, contributing to a broader, more impactful change. Remember, systemic change often requires collective effort over time, so patience, persistence, and adaptability are key.«


Question: »I feel like a good listener, no? -When I’ll become a great leader, an influencer of influencers, with a bucket of cash?«

Grok's Response: »Becoming a great leader or an influencer of influencers, especially with the financial success you're envisioning, involves several key steps and traits beyond just being a good listener. Here's how you might proceed:

Develop Leadership Skills:

  • Vision and Strategy: Great leaders have a clear vision. Develop your own unique perspective on the issues or industries you're passionate about. Learn strategic planning to turn your vision into actionable steps.
  • Communication: While listening is crucial, effective leaders also communicate their vision compellingly. Work on your public speaking, writing, and negotiation skills.
  • Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Continue honing your listening skills, but also work on understanding and managing emotions, both your own and others', to foster a supportive environment.
  • Decision Making: Leaders often need to make tough decisions. Enhance your ability to analyze situations, think critically, and make informed decisions under pressure.

Influence and Network:

  • Build Relationships: Networking isn't just about meeting people; it's about forming meaningful connections. Attend conferences, join relevant groups, or engage on platforms where your potential audience or peers gather.
  • Content Creation: If you aim to influence influencers, you'll need content that stands out. This could mean insightful blogs, viral social media posts, or thought-provoking podcasts. Tailor your content to your target audience.
  • Mentorship: Both seek mentors for yourself and mentor others. This two-way street can significantly amplify your influence.

Monetization and Financial Growth:

  • Entrepreneurial Ventures: Consider starting or investing in businesses that align with your vision. This could be through social enterprises aimed at addressing global issues.
  • Brand Building: Personal branding is key. Your name or your organization's name should become synonymous with innovation, leadership, or whatever value you represent.
  • Diversification: Don't rely on a single income stream. Look into investments, speaking engagements, book deals, or consulting as ways to expand your financial base.
  • Marketing: Understand marketing dynamics to promote your brand or cause. This might involve digital marketing, PR, or leveraging social media influencers.

Timing and Continuous Growth:

  • Patience and Persistence: The timeline from being a good listener to an influential leader with financial success can vary widely. It's a journey that requires patience, continuous learning, and adaptation.
  • Feedback and Adaptation: Always be open to feedback to adjust your approach. Leadership is about evolving, both personally and strategically.
  • Ethical Leadership: As you grow in influence, maintain integrity. Ethical leadership not only sustains influence but also builds a legacy.

Given your current skills, your journey to becoming a "great leader, an influencer of influencers, with a bucket of cash" will involve leveraging your listening skills into broader leadership capabilities, expanding your influence through strategic networking and content, and ensuring your financial strategy supports your broader goals. Remember, the path to such success is rarely linear, and it's as much about personal growth as it is about external recognition and financial gain.«

Collective Intelligence or Collective Stupidity

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/
Ant societies exhibit more intelligence

Collective intelligence, or maybe could be collective stupidity, come to look it closely. I believe that's a part of a problem some are pointing fingers toward Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. The so-called intelligence made numerous mistakes. From the harsh punishments during totalitarian regimes, and even now, those who advocate direct democracy are wrong.

27 November, 2024

Seal Our Fate as a Highly Developed Country

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

Croatian GDP grew by 3.9 percent, it's growing for the 15ᵗʰ consecutive quarter. I believe that we need to speed up the reforms to seal our fate as a highly developed country. How could developing countries with billions of inhabitants, like India and China, grow by approx. 7 percentage points of the gross domestic product? We must find our own path, special and different, to turn to a future where green revolution shines.

As I have said many times, we do not need greenwashing with fake data as if hydroelectric power plants are ecological or -

instead of greenfield investments and the destruction of our valuable soil fundamentally brownfield investments should be allowed
Greenpeace

There are two more key steps that we must not miss:

  • Charity Donations
  • Calculating GDP based on evolutionary efforts to create a sustainable economy

23 November, 2024

Hobby - Programing & Design, Photography

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

I'm reviewing the project page for the Image Gallery Content Management System (CMS) hosted on SourceForge. This project is an open-source CMS designed to manage and display image galleries. It provides features like uploading images, managing galleries, and administration tools, and is built around SQL for database operations.

 

22 November, 2024

ᴬᴵ ᴳᴱᴺᴱᴿᴬᵀᴱᴰ ᵂᴱᴮᴾᴬᴳᴱ --> Peace on Earth <--

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

The concept of "Peace on Earth" is a timeless ideal that resonates across cultures, religions, and philosophies. It reflects humanity's aspiration for a world without conflict, violence, or oppression, where harmony, justice, and mutual respect prevail. 

19 November, 2024

Happy World Toilet Day 2024!

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/
  1. Toilets are a place for peace.
  2. Toilets are a place for protection.
  3. Toilets are a place for progress.

The theme image aims to celebrate and highlight peace, protection, and progress associated with toilets.

17 November, 2024

Making a New Year's Day Commitment

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

I pledge to visit great six nearby bridges in Zagreb city in my walking tour. New Year's Day -- here I come -- in a zigzag fashion! Forget about difficult problems, and please remember everyone deceased. I think psychocracy in pharmalike-shithole should go away, because so many of my colleagues and acquaintances are dead.

 

 




14 November, 2024

Save the Earth :: #PropelClimateActionForward

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

We can propel climate action forward.
environmentalist Al Gore


  • Individual actions: Reduce your carbon footprint by making sustainable choices in your daily life, such as reducing energy consumption, eating a plant-based diet, and using sustainable transportation.
  • Collective action: Join or support organizations working on climate solutions, participate in climate protests and rallies, and vote for politicians who prioritize climate action.
  • Advocacy: Contact your elected officials and demand climate action, write letters to the editor, and share information about climate change on social media.
  • Investment:Invest in renewable energy and sustainable businesses, and divest from fossil fuel companies.
  • Innovation: Support research and development of clean technologies, and encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
  • International cooperation: Promote international agreements and cooperation to address climate change, and support efforts to help developing countries adapt to climate change.
It is important to remember that climate change is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, by taking action at all levels, we can make a significant impact and create a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations. 




 - by Gemini








02 November, 2024

My Sincere Condolences

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

Please stop with armed conflicts like Israel–Hamas war, Somali Civil War, insurgencies in Pakistan and Bolivia. I'm sorry for the disasters and accidents that are happening - "October 2024 Spain floods" and "Novi Sad railway station canopy collapse". Furthermore, I would like their families and friends to receive my sincere condolences. Who knows how dangerous and destructive human detonation of weapons is for nature. Science has yet to determine how closely related the events of "Armed conflicts and attacks" are in one place, and consequently "Disasters and Accidents" in another.

28 October, 2024

Accept Drones With Laser Shows, Sound Systems

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

Firecrackers and fireworks are bad. I remember how bad boys destroyed the decorative styrofoam for the ceiling. In a café with a pool table, they would make holes with sticks. Now I understand their intention - how they will t??r the sky a??rt. I guess they also want to make some money 💰 as well. Please stop raising tensions with pointless banging. It would be nice for the people to accept drones with laser shows, sound systems. 

21 October, 2024

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝑲𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝑷𝒉𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒂

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

We need to get rid of "Indian summer". Other names for this kind of phenomenon are: "(old) women's summer", "poor man's summer", "gypsy summer", "little summer of the quince tree" or "the sun of the quince tree".

Inspired by Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

19 October, 2024

ᵁᴾᴰᴬᵀᴱᴰ New Era

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

The period of post-war is over here, the coronavirus pandemic is under control, I guess there will be no escalation of conflicts in the east of Europe, and the economy is growing rapidly, the fastest in all of Europe. Kids should go to the hospital when they're sick. Others should live forever—naturally, of course. I'm very happy there's 30 percent fewer drug addicts in treatment than there were ten years ago. Now, mainly at my age, junkies want to recover and get a job. Good luck!

13 October, 2024

/ ᵒᵏᵃʸ ✅ / Testing AI Image Generators

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

A clear sky in a sunny day, man 180 cm 100 kilos, by the lake sitting down



 

clear sky, sunny day, man 180 cm 100 kilos, by the lake, sitting down

 

 

clear sky, sunny day, man 180 cm 100 kilos, by the lake, sitting down

 


All went well, I hardly ever had the feeling I was like toasted while testing those cool text to image translators. He-he.

10 October, 2024

My Special Message on This Festival Day

ᴵⁿ ᵗᶦᵐᵉˢ ᵒᶠ ᶜˡᶦᵐᵃᵗᵉ ᵉᵐᵉʳᵍᵉⁿᶜʸ https://climateclock.world/

Please stop Big Pharma, Big Oil, and Big Tobacco covering all-over superpowers. Clientelism is bad. Stop the death row penalty and let the Charter of Human Rights by the UN be loved.