Latest news with #Swart
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
EPA proposes historic renewable fuel blending standards
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins at an ethanol production facility in Atlantic. (Photo by Cecilia Lynch/USDA) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Friday released its renewable fuel standards draft rule which, if finalized, would set record high levels of biofuels to be blended into U.S. transportation fuels. Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw said the draft rule, which proposes a total 24.02 billion gallon blending level in 2026, is a 'very strong starting point for further discussions.' Shaw said the association will need time to evaluate the proposal, specifically as it relates to changes in credits for imported fuels and feedstocks. According to the proposal, EPA is considering 'several regulatory changes' to the RFS program that would reduce the number of Renewable Identification Numbers, or RINs which is the measuring unit for renewable fuel, for imported renewable fuels and renewable fuels produced from imported feedstocks. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports imported biodiesel feedstocks, like used cooking oil, tallow and canola oil have all increased over the past several years due to the high cost of domestic feedstocks. According to the same report, in the 2023 and 2024 marketing year, the U.S. consumed nearly 30% of biofuel feedstocks exported globally. The news to prioritize domestic feedstocks was welcomed by Iowa Soybean Association President Brent Swart, who said biomass-based diesel supports 'roughly 10% of the price per bushel of soybeans.' 'Biomass-based diesel has long provided significant value to soybean farmers, helping us weather difficult economic times and supporting our state's thriving agriculture industry,' Swart said in a statement. The EPA program sets overall standards and specific standards for different types of biofuels. The draft rules propose biomass-based diesel standards equivalent to 5.61 billion gallons in 2026 and 5.86 billion gallons in 2027. These figures are a significant jump from 2025 targets from EPA, which set an annual volume requirement of 3.35 billion gallons for biomass-based diesel. 'This is a significant step toward putting the market back on track,' Swart said. 'It is also a long overdue recognition that Iowa farmers, soybean processors and the state's biodiesel producers, can contribute even more (to) America's energy output.' Swart said the announcement 'provides added certainty' for soybean farmers during the growing season and he thanked the Trump administration for supporting 'farmers' critical role' in U.S. energy policy. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said USDA and EPA have 'never been more aligned' on the demand for domestically grown biofuels. 'This is the highest ever Renewable Volume Obligation and it sends a strong signal to the U.S. biofuels industry that President Trump has their backs and gives them the incentive to invest in American products for American consumers and to export around the world,' Rollins said in a statement. Iowa is the leading producer of biofuels in the nation. According to Iowa Soybean Association, the soybean oil used to produce biodiesel in Iowa in 2024 was equivalent to more than 30% of the soybeans grown in the state. An IRFA report found that in 2024, the state produced 4.61 billion gallons of fuel ethanol, and the industry provided a market for nearly 60% of Iowa's 2024 corn crop. The same study, however, showed a decline in economic impact from the biofuels industry, and IRFA said entry to the ultra-low carbon fuel market would be the 'most cost-effective and impactful' way to revitalize biofuels and corn markets. The EPA proposal additionally waives the 2025 cellulosic biofuel volume requirement and reinstates the values through 2026 and 2027, due to a shortfall in the production of the fuels made from nonfood-based renewable feedstocks, like cellulose or lignin. The draft rule also removes renewable electricity as a qualifying renewable fuel under the program, which follows a move from the Trump administration to block state-specific mandates on emissions that encouraged the use of electric vehicles. U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst celebrated the move and the EPA announcement in a statement, saying it brings RFS 'back on track.' 'By eliminating the electric vehicle mandate and restoring the RFS' original focus on liquid transportation fuels, prioritizing domestically grown crops over foreign imports, setting record-high volumes to revitalize the biofuel industry, and adopting safeguards to prevent small refinery waivers from gutting the program—it is clear the Trump administration is committed to championing rural America,' Ernst said. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig similarly applauded the move, including the proposed regulation changes to steer producers away from foreign-made feedstocks. 'President Trump is once again demonstrating his commitment to showcasing how Iowa-made biofuels can be central to his effort to make America energy dominant,' Naig said in a statement. 'Biofuels are a win for drivers and American farmers – they save drivers money at the pump, directly support corn and soybean prices, expand markets for farmers, and support rural jobs and communities.' EPA will host a public hearing on the rules July 8. Shaw said IRFA plans to work with EPA through the commenting period and to secure a final rule from the agency. 'Agriculture is hurting, having just endured the largest two-year drop in net farm income in history,' Shaw said. 'We need forward leaning RFS blending levels to maximize American energy dominance.' SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
The Citizen
12-06-2025
- The Citizen
Elderly mother and son shot dead in KwaZulu-Natal
Police were on scene for further investigations. A mother and son have been shot dead in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson said they responded to numerous calls of a shooting incident on Sarnia Road before Stella Road in the Hillary area on Wednesday at about 7:45pm. Crime scene 'On arrival, paramedics found Saps already in attendance and were shown into a house. Paramedics found two people believed to be a mother in her sixties and a male believed to be her son in his thirties who had sustained gunshot wounds to their heads. 'Paramedics assessed both of them; however, they showed no signs of life, and both were declared deceased on the scene,' Jamieson said. Jamieson said the circumstances leading up to the shooting are unknown; however, police were in attendance and will be investigating further. ALSO READ: Former Stellenbosch mayor Nyaniso Jindela shot dead Warrant of arrest Meanwhile, police have issued a warrant of arrest for Lucky Boitumelo Molefe, a former Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) employee, in connection with the murder of a 30-year-old engineer in Vereeniging. Armard Swart was shot in a hail of bullets while seated in his vehicle outside his workplace on 17 April 2024, allegedly by two suspects driving a white Hyundai i20. Police said Swart sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was declared dead on the scene. Swart was shot 23 times. Investigation Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi said an intensive investigation led by the head office organised crime team and crime Intelligence led to the arrest of four suspects, including one who was suspected to be behind the murder. 'It was reported that the suspects orchestrated the assassination in order to silence him after he blew the whistle about fraud and corruption that was linked to a Transnet tender contract. 'Molefe from Johannesburg has been in hiding since December 2024, and police have been searching for him,' Mukhathi said. ALSO READ: Two arrested and charged for IFP deputy chief whip's 'assassination'
The Citizen
28-05-2025
- General
- The Citizen
flood warnings subside with Vaal Dam levels
The handling of the Vaal Dam during the crisis period came under fire from some residents. Flood warnings along the Vaal Dam have subsided as water levels continue to drop from their peak earlier this month, bringing relief to residents who have endured months of uncertainty. The dam currently sits at 107.56%, down from 114% at the beginning of the month and 108% recorded two weeks ago. As water levels have receded, so have the fears of flooding that gripped communities along the Vaal River system during the first quarter of the year. Vaal Dam operating well below danger levels Despite the seemingly high percentage, Midvaal councillor Pieter Swart explained that the Vaal Dam is operating well below dangerous levels due to infrastructure upgrades completed decades ago. 'The Vaal Dam is at no risk of overtopping, as the 107.5% is a little misleading. In actuality, the addition of the sluices on top of the original spillway and the raising of the wall in the 80s have increased the capacity to 126%. The 126% is the new 100%. So at its current level of 107%, the dam is actually at around 85% of its actual capacity,' Swart told The Citizen. This technical explanation provides context for residents who may be concerned about water levels appearing to exceed 100% capacity. Life returns to normal despite ongoing challenges along the Vaal River While conditions have stabilised, Swart acknowledged that many residents continue to deal with the aftermath of the flooding that occurred during the dam's rapid rise from near-empty to full capacity in just over two months. 'Mostly — life has returned to normal, but this does not mean that a large amount of people have not suffered significant damage and even financial ruin. My utmost sympathy goes out to these residents,' said Swart. The councillor noted that residents with waterfront properties can now safely enjoy their facilities again, though he cautioned about the risks some have taken by building within flood zones. 'Since there is no danger at this stage, a lot of residents with water and riverfront access can safely enjoy the facilities. This, however, does not ignore the fact that a lot of infrastructure was built against recommendations — and sometimes even unlawfully — within the flood lines. This is a calculated risk the owners have taken upon themselves,' he explained. ALSO READ: Majodina reviews report on illegal Middle Letaba Dam blockages Defence of Vaal Dam management amid criticism The management of the Vaal Dam during the crisis period drew criticism from some residents, but Swart defended the Department of Water and Sanitation's (DWS) handling of the situation. 'DWS managed the dam very well in my opinion. We could not have predicted that we would receive over 700mm of rain in the first 4 months of the year. 'The Dam went from 25% on New Year's Day to 100% on 7 March. They also have to make sure the dam stays as full as possible for as long as possible. Unfortunately, when large amounts come in, large amounts need to be released, and that's why flood lines exist,' he said. The rapid transformation from drought conditions to flood warnings highlighted the extreme weather patterns experienced in the region during early 2025. Municipal safety measures and communication Swart outlined the various safety measures implemented by Midvaal Local Municipality to protect residents during the crisis and ongoing monitoring efforts. 'Midvaal Local Municipality monitors the safety of residents very closely. We invest in various safety initiatives to ensure this. One example is Midvaal's Marine 1 Rescue boat, stationed at Vaal Marina fire station,' he said. Swart said the municipality has also prioritised communication with residents through multiple channels. 'We communicate relevant information regularly. Not only on the official Midvaal channels and socials, but also through ward councillors like myself and my various channels and WhatsApp groups,' Swart added. ALSO READ: Municipal water crisis 'nothing to do with bulk water supply', says minster at LHWP reopening Regional impact and future outlook While Midvaal residents have been relatively fortunate, Swart acknowledged that other areas along the Vaal River system have faced more severe challenges. 'As far as Midvaal Local Municipality goes, our residents are generally not affected to the extent as residents in places like Parys, for example. Unfortunately, I'm not familiar with what measures the Free State has in place for places like Parys,' he said. Looking ahead, Swart expects water levels to continue dropping gradually during the dry winter months, with levels potentially decreasing by 1% to 2% per week. However, recent developments may help maintain higher water levels. 'Our dry winters could see a gradual drop in level of 1-2% per week. What will help significantly is the re-opening of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel, which concluded its maintenance recently and has already seen an uptick in inflows into the Vaal Dam,' he explained. ALSO READ: Vaal Dam still over 100%: Here's what level it's on today Forward-thinking water security plans The municipality is also exploring alternative water supply solutions to reduce dependence on traditional sources. Swart highlighted one innovative approach being considered. 'The DA-led Midvaal Local municipality prides itself in forward-thinking plans and solutions. One such plan is, for example, 'capturing' water released daily from Bass Lake as an alternative water supply to bolster the reliance on just Rand Water,' he said. NOW READ: Here's how many millions SA sends to Lesotho each month for water
eNCA
23-05-2025
- eNCA
SANParks clears five buffalo to be auctioned at wildlife festival
ADDO - South African National Parks has tested five buffalo in Addo Elephant National Park for diseases of concern, and all have been cleared. The buffalo will be auctioned off at the Kirkwood Wildlife Festival in late June, with the proceeds going towards conservation projects. This marks the 24th year SANParks has backed the festival. Kirkwood Wildlife Festival auctioneer, Johan Swart, says most buyers use the buffalo as breeding bulls and for hunting purposes. Swart says the festival attracts over 50 thousand visitors globally and generates R10-million in revenue.
CNBC
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CNBC
Quinta Brunson isn't surprised by her success: 'I made every single move in my life so that this could happen to me'
The past few years have seen "Abbott Elementary" star and creator Quinta Brunton take home multiple Emmys, a Golden Globe and even a Peabody award. But the 35-year-old comedy star isn't surprised by her success. On a recent appearance on "Good Hang with Amy Poehler," Brunson said that if you asked her 10 years ago what she would say if she knew how many accomplishments she had ahead of her, she would probably think everything was going exactly according to plan. "I think 2014 me would be like, 'Exactly. Period,'" she said with a laugh. "I was a very determined, knew-where-I-was-going girl," she continued. "I don't like to do that thing where people pretend 'I had no idea this could happen to me.' Like, no. I made every single move in my life so that this could happen to me." Brunson — who worked at an Apple Store in order to build up enough savings to move to Los Angeles, where she would go on to create viral comic videos and land a job at BuzzFeed — said that leaving her hometown of Philadelphia was part of the strategy she laid out to achieve her success. She explained that she is "a big believer" in having a vision for your life that you can work toward. "I think 2014 me didn't exactly know [all of this would happen], but I think that's the beauty of vision," she said. "You can feel, see something, you're working in accordance with something." Indeed, Brunson's approach is in line with that of successful executives and businesspeople. Tara Swart, a neuroscientist and executive coach, told CNBC Make It in 2019 that using tools such as vision boards can help rewire your brain to help you achieve your goals. Laying out a vision for yourself, she said, can prime your brain to seize on opportunities that you might otherwise not have noticed. Swart explained using a board to help visualize what your life will look like if your goals are achieved can help you make better decisions and be more willing to take action towards making your dreams a reality. By visualizing your goals and understanding what you need to do to achieve them, she said, you can reduce your body's stress response when the time comes to actually do the work. "The process reduces the [physiological] fear response to any new situation or person, making you more likely to take healthy risks, collaborate and embrace opportunity," Swart said. For Brunson's part, while she couldn't have controlled all the circumstances that led to "Abbott Elementary" becoming a smash hit, she doesn't attribute any of the success to luck. "I don't call myself lucky because I think about all the things that go into it," she said. "But I do think you have to think about so many different factors to make your show a success at all now."
