Latest news with #Robson
7NEWS
a day ago
- Health
- 7NEWS
Doctors sound alarm over microplastics as health and environmental fears mount
Microplastics have infiltrated nearly every corner of life — they're in our food and drinks, in the clothes we wear, and even in the air we breathe. Even newborns aren't immune, according to former Australian Medical Association president, Steve Robson. '(Microplastics) been detected in breast milk and even in baby poo of newborn babies,' professor Robson told 7NEWS, adding they 'can even affect our reproductive system'. 'What it's doing to our bodies is really frightening me.' A growing body of research has experts sounding the alarm on the potential health impacts of microplastic exposure. The University of Sydney published a major study on the topic showing that microplastics are 'building up in all types of tissues and cells within the human body'. 'Also with the digestive system, we found links to characteristics associated with cancer,' said the university's senior research fellow, Nicholas Chartres. 'We also found that they also impact things like respiratory health — so lung function — but also increasing chronic inflammation in the lung and also again with potential links to things like lung cancer.' An international treaty involving 175 countries is currently being finalised to combat global plastic pollution. But Chartres and a team of leading experts say environmental action must be matched with policies to protect human health. The are calling for a global cap on plastic production and legally binding requirements to ensure plastics are free from toxic chemicals, and taken aim at big companies and countries who are delaying reforms. 'We can't recycle our way out of the problem,' Chartres told 7NEWS. 'All we're doing essentially is continuing the cycle of exposing ourselves to these hazardous chemicals.' The team has also called attention to single-use plastics in healthcare, which surged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Robson says a review into healthcare is important. 'We need to think really carefully about how to refocus the health system to minimise the risk to patients and to the staff providing care,' Robson said. If the world fails to act, experts have predicted a dire future. 'Unfortunately, for generations to come there is going to be a growing burden of disease due to plastics,' Chartres said.
7NEWS
3 days ago
- Politics
- 7NEWS
Tense moment Channel 7 reporter is forced into bomb shelter in Tel Aviv as missiles strike the city
Seven reporter Jacquelin Robson has detailed the tense moment she was forced into a bomb shelter as ballistic missiles struck Tel Aviv amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. The Israeli military launched attacks on Friday with the aim of wiping out Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The two countries have been engaged in tit-for-tat airstrikes since. Robson, who is reporting from the Israeli city for the network, told Sunrise viewers on Wednesday that sirens blared over the city. 'We got a real taste of what it's like for the people living here in Tel Aviv,' Robson said. 'It was just moments after we'd checked into our hotel that the sirens started sounding. It began with a text message on our phone, then we heard that loud, piercing alarm outside the hotel. 'It was then a procession of guests moved down towards the bunker. It's two levels under the ground, built specifically for the threat of ballistic missiles.' Inside the bunker, Robson explained how people passed the time. 'People were playing games on their phones, keeping updated on what was happening outside,' Robson said. 'We understand there were up to 30 Iranian missiles in that group of strikes. Many of them were intercepted. 'Just a few ... got through, one hitting a bus parking depot, and others hitting an empty field. 'There were also strikes in Iran as well. 'They say they've been able to eliminate 40 per cent of Iran's ballistic missile launchers, which has been a damaging campaign. 'The US is now moving some of its military assets to the Middle East. 'There are two US destroyers in the area as well as aircraft refuelling tankers. 'The military posture is changing.' Wave of attacks Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Tuesday that a 'more powerful' new wave of missiles was recently launched towards Israel, the state news agency reported. A senior Iranian army commander said a new wave of drones would hit Israel. Three people were killed and four injured in Iran's central city of Kashan in an Israeli attack, Iran's Nournews reported on Tuesday. Iranian media also reported explosions and heavy air defence fire in Tehran early on Tuesday, with smoke rising in the city's east after an explosion of suspected Israeli projectiles. Air defences were activated also in Natanz, home to key nuclear installations 320km away, the Asriran news website reported. Israel's military said on Tuesday that it killed Iran's wartime chief of staff. Israel also said it carried out extensive strikes on Iranian military targets including weapons storage sites and missile launchers. Iranian officials have reported 224 deaths, mostly civilians, while Israel said 24 civilians had been killed. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said nearly 3000 Israelis had been evacuated due to damage from Iranian strikes. Sources told Reuters that Tehran had asked Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia to urge US President Donald Trump to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to an immediate ceasefire. In return, Iran would show flexibility in nuclear negotiations, according to two Iranian and three regional sources. 'If President Trump is genuine about diplomacy and interested in stopping this war, next steps are consequential,' Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on X. 'Israel must halt its aggression and, absent a total cessation of military aggression against us, our responses will continue.' Iran must not get a nuclear weapon World leaders meeting at the Group of Seven summit called for a de-escalation of the worst conflict between the regional foes, saying Iran was a source of instability and must never have a nuclear weapon while affirming Israel's right to defend itself. Trump, who left the summit early due to the Middle East situation, said his departure had 'nothing to do with' working on a deal between Israel and Iran after French President Emmanuel Macron said the US had initiated a ceasefire proposal. 'Wrong! He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a ceasefire. Much bigger than that,' Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform late on Monday. Israel launched its air war with a surprise attack that has killed nearly the entire top echelon of Iran's military commanders and its leading nuclear scientists. It says it now has control of Iranian airspace and intends to escalate the campaign within days. Trump has consistently said the Israeli assault could end quickly if Iran agreed to US demands that it accept strict curbs on its nuclear program. 'Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!' Trump said on Monday.
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
Entrepreneurship a solution to youth unemployment – but there are challenges
The creative economy is thriving, with content creators, designers and beauty professionals making their mark. With nearly half of South Africa's youth struggling to find traditional jobs, entrepreneurship is a viable alternative. FNB says the crisis faced by the youth needs innovative solutions, not just job creation. Youth entrepreneurship is a sustainable catalyst for job creation and economic growth. Janis Robson, Head of Business Development at FNB, notes that the youth are increasingly turning to entrepreneurship as a deliberate and empowered choice to build their futures. Side hustles and formal businesses Robson adds that more than 35% of the businesses that bank with them with a turnover of less than R5 million are comprised of young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35. 'There are a mix of skilled professionals, graduates, and those without formal qualifications, many of whom are running side hustles or growing formal businesses.' She says trends indicate that the largest share of youth-led businesses falls into business and administrative services, followed by community services, retail, construction and transport. Additionally, the creative economy is thriving, with content creators, designers and beauty professionals making their mark, particularly in metro areas. 'Youth are also increasingly leveraging technology to develop scalable solutions that address local challenges.' ALSO READ: Political events happening in June expected to affect South African SMEs Entrepreneurship challenges faced by youth Robson notes that opportunities are growing, but young entrepreneurs are still faced with significant challenges. One of the biggest challenges is access to funding, followed by gaps in industry-specific skills and general business knowledge. 'Safety concerns, crime, and credibility issues, especially among young women, also limit business growth. 'Many also struggle with financial literacy, which can lead to early business closures. Some start ventures while job-hunting, only to abandon them when formal employment becomes available.' Mental health in entrepreneurship Phumla Mavundla, Head of Marketing at Metropolitan, has highlighted the need for entrepreneur programmes to also focus on mental health. By placing mental wellness at the core of entrepreneurship, the initiative is breaking new ground and making a bold shift in a space where emotional resilience is often overlooked. She stresses that entrepreneurs frequently encounter significant pressures, from financial challenges to societal expectations, and when these stresses go unaddressed, they can lead to anxiety, burnout, and ultimately, business failure. It was noticed through one of their programmes, the Metropolitan's Collective Shapers (MCS), that funding alone is not enough; entrepreneurs also need resilience, emotional support, clarity, and strong financial literacy to succeed. ALSO READ: 4 business pitch mistakes that could be costing you investors — and how to avoid them Funding is not everything Mavundla added that too many programmes assume that if we give entrepreneurs capital, they will thrive. However, no amount of funding can compensate for burnout and poor financial decision-making under stress or isolation. Entrepreneurs need programmes that help them build resilience, emotional agility, and long-term strategic clarity. 'The future of entrepreneurship depends not just on bright ideas, but on healthy, resilient minds capable of executing them.' NOW READ: Report reveals there is no lack of funding for small businesses – here's the problem
Hamilton Spectator
11-06-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
YG responds to criticism of EPR recycling program
There are no plans to delay the implementation of the extended producer responsibility (EPR) recycling program in the Yukon, according to Yukon government cabinet communications. Despite requests to do exactly that — halt the extended producer responsibility program until 2026 — the government said it is 'necessary to reduce waste and create a more sustainable, efficient system for managing packaging and paper products,' in a statement shared on June 4. Letters from the Yukon Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Federation of Independent Business were made available to the News: they claimed that the EPR program would increase costs for local businesses and consumers. The statement from the Yukon government said that work has been underway on the program since 2022, and there's been ongoing engagement and input from businesses, municipalities and other partners. 'EPR is something many other jurisdictions are already implementing, and we're working to make sure the Yukon's approach fits our unique context while aligning with broader efforts to reduce waste,' reads the statement. The News reached out to the producer responsibility organizations (PROs) planning to begin operation in the territory. Product Care, which is set to deal with hazardous materials, declined to comment based on its ongoing consultation process. Call2Recycle, which will deal with batteries, did not respond to a request for comment. Interchange Recycling, which will deal with oil, diesel exhaust fluid and antifreeze, shared a statement from director of operations Jenn Robson. 'EPR programs have proven successful across Canada in helping manage waste more efficiently and equitably by shifting the responsibility for recycling from local governments and taxpayers to the producers of products and packaging,' reads the email statement. Robson acknowledged the potential for challenges, especially in remote and northern places like the Yukon. Because of that, Interchange will be working closely with YG and the other PROs to ensure there is clear communication and support for businesses, she wrote. Circular Materials, which will be responsible for paper and packaging materials, provided a written statement attributed to CEO Allen Langdon. The statement said the organization will 'continue to engage and work closely with the Yukon government to discuss challenges and key opportunities to manage costs on behalf of producers as we work to deliver a successful transition to EPR in the territory.' Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Daily Mirror
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Where Soldier, Soldier cast are now - booze battles, affairs and tragic death
Soldier, Soldier was a huge TV hit in the 90s and made stars of Robson Green and Jerome Flynn who went on to have a number one hit and huge success in Hollywood Soldier, Soldier star Marise Wipani has tragically died aged 61. The actress, who also appeared in Xena: Warrior Princess, died on her birthday on Friday. Her Facebook page announced the news of her death in a sad message to friends and family. It read: "Marise passed peacefully today on her 61st birthday surrounded by family and friends. "She just wanted to say....I have shuffled off this mortal coil. Good byyye, good luuuck, good God!!! Quote from Driving Miss Daisy." Her cause of death was not shared in the post. ITV's Soldier, Soldier was a massive telly hit in the 90s, captivating viewers with its fictional insight into the ups and downs of the British Army. Set within the made-up 1st Battalion The King's Fusiliers regiment, it delved into the professional and personal dramas of the show's ensemble. The standout stars were Robson and Jerome, who enjoyed a brief but significant music career, sparked by an episode where they performed Unchained Melody. With Simon Cowell's support, their rendition topped the charts for seven weeks and became 1995's best-selling single. They both exited the show in the fifth series, but it continued for another two seasons before wrapping up in December 1997. It ran for seven series and captured the nation's attention. Since the show ended, the stars have had varied fates. Here's a look at what the cast have been up to... Robson Green - Fusilier Dave Tucker Robson was already familiar to viewers for his role as Jimmy Powell on BBC One's Casualty when he scored the part of Fusilier Dave Tucker, reports the Express. This role propelled him to mega-stardom and chart-topping success. He and co-star Jerome Flynn had a short but massive music career which saw them become the first act to have their initial three singles enter the charts at number one. Since leaving the show, angling fanatic Robson has presented numerous fishing shows. He has also appeared in BBC Three's supernatural drama Being Human, as well as BBC One's Waterloo Road. His current role sees him playing DI George Keating in ITV's hugely popular '50s set detective drama Grantchester. Off screen, Green's personal life has been quite eventful; he wed Alison Ogilvie in 1991, but their marriage ended by 1999 amid reports of Green's affair with Pamela McDonald, who was then the wife of Emmerdale 's Ian Sharrock, known for his role as Jackie Merrick on the soap. He met his second wife, former Page 3 model Vanya Seager, during a recording session at BMG Records in 1995. They went on to have a son, Taylor Seager-Green and tied the knot in 2001. However, a decade later they issued a statement saying their marriage had "irretrievably broken down" and that they were separating. Jerome Flynn - Lance Corporal Paddy Garvey After getting his breakthrough in London's Burning Jerome found huge fame with Soldier, Soldier and in his music career with co-star Robson Green In more recent times Jerome resurrected his acting career, impressing audiences globally with his role in Game of Thrones and gracing ITV's Ripper Street. His career took another thrilling turn in 2019 when he shared the big screen with Keanu Reeves and Halle Berry in the action thriller John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum. Off-screen, the star has never married nor had children, but he's created a new-age holiday retreat named Trefacwn in a Grade II-listed Georgian mansion, which its website claims radiates "an ancient healing energy palpable to all who visit". Denise Welch - Marsha Stubbs Denise became a household name as Marsha Stubbs on the show back in 1993 and continued to grace the screens for two years until 1995, by then already recognised from her stints in Byker Grove and Spender. Post Soldier, Soldier, she starred in Coronation Street as Natalie Barnes, causing a stir across the nation when she became embroiled in the breakdown of Kevin and Sally Webster's marriage. Since then, Denise's career has thrived with roles in hit series like Holby City, Down To Earth, Waterloo Road, and Hollyoaks. She is also no stranger to reality TV and has appeared on Dancing On Ice and she won Celebrity Big Brother in 2012. A familiar face now on Loose Women, Denise openly shares her struggles with alcoholism on the show and is well appreciated for her candour. Behind the scenes, Denise is a mother to two sons with her former spouse Tim Healy, one being Matty, the frontman of The 1975, and she's currently married to artist Lincoln Townley. Annabelle Apsion - Joy Wilton Annabelle might not have been a well-known figure to audiences during her time on Soldier, Soldier with only a few minor roles under her belt, but today she stands as one of televisions most recognisable figures, noted for a myriad of iconic roles since departing the series in 1995. A year on from her exit, she portrayed Jenni Hicks, a mother who tragically lost her two daughters in the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, in the docudrama Hillsborough. She also shared the silver screen with Hollywood heartthrob Johnny Depp in From Hell, where she played Polly Nichols, Jack the Ripper's first known victim. In 2002, she made a brief yet unforgettable appearance on Coronation Street as Patricia Hillman, the ex-wife of serial killer Richard Hillman, who met a gruesome end at his hands. Despite her impressive acting portfolio, until recently she was most recognised for her role as Monica Gallagher in Channel 4's Shameless. However, these days she is best known for her portrayal of Mayor Violet Buckle in BBC One's Call The Midwife. Paterson Joseph - Fusilier Eddie "Horatio" Nelson Paterson Joseph was just beginning to make a name for himself when he featured in one episode of Soldier, Soldier in series four in 1994. That same year, he appeared in an episode of BBC's Casualty before becoming a regular on the show three years later. Over his 45-year career, he has become one of the most recognisable faces in British drama, playing roles such as Reuben in William and Mary, alongside Martin Clunes, the Marquis de Carabas in Neverwhere, Alan Johnson in Peep Show, Lyndon Jones in Green Wing; and Shorty in the first episode of Jericho. Like many other esteemed British actors, he has appeared in Doctor Who in the 2005 two-part episodes Bad Wolf and The Parting of the Ways. He played Rodrick, a contestant on a futuristic version of The Weakest Link game show. Most recently, he dazzled audiences in cinemas as Arthur Slugworth in Wonka. Away from the spotlight, he shares his life with wife Emmanuelle Joseph and their child. He also holds the esteemed position of Chancellor at Oxford Brookes University. Holly Aird - Corporal (later Sergeant) Nancy Thorpe Holly, a veteran actress since childhood, boasted an impressive resume by the time she joined Soldier, Soldier. Post-departure, she captivated viewers as Carla in Dressing For Breakfast and became widely recognised for her role as forensic pathologist Frankie Wharton in BBC1's Waking the Dead. Her recent credits include roles in A Discovery Of Witches and Four Lives, and last year she shone in the Idris Elba-led Apple TV production Hijack. In her personal life, Holly was married to Rome actor James Purefoy from 1996 until 2002 and is currently wed to Toby Merritt since 2004. Samantha Morton - Clare Anderson Samantha Morton first graced our screens in Soldier, Soldier, making an immediate impact despite appearing in just four episodes. A mere four years later, she captured the nation's attention in ITV's Band Of Gold. Since then, she has graced the silver screen in Hollywood blockbusters like Minority Report with Tom Cruise, and Elizabeth: The Golden Age alongside Cate Blanchett. Expanding her talents, she has also ventured into producing and directing throughout her thirty-year career. Her outstanding contributions were honoured at this year's BAFTAs with the prestigious fellowship, where she delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech: "representation matters". Away from the spotlight, she's a mother to three children, including actress Esmé Creed-Miles.
