Biohacking, a term originating from Silicon Valley, involves strategies to enhance health and longevity by optimizing one's biology through lifestyle changes.

Popular methods include intermittent fasting, which concentrates eating within a specific time frame to potentially activate epigenetic modifications.

Nutrition plays a crucial role, with many biohackers adopting diets like gluten-free, dairy-free, keto, or the "bulletproof diet" to reduce inflammation and optimize gut health.

Supplements are commonly used, such as collagen, protein, and MCT oil, to support metabolism and cognitive function.

Physical activity is another pillar, with biohackers often engaging in extreme exercises and practices like cold-water therapy to stimulate metabolism and reduce inflammation.

Mental health practices, including cognitive stimulation through learning new skills, are emphasized to counteract cognitive decline.

Stress management is also crucial, with techniques like neurofeedback therapy being explored to improve mental health outcomes.

Medical screenings are part of the biohacking approach, with tests measuring oxidative stress, microcirculation, and body composition to tailor personalized health programs.

While some practices like exercise and balanced nutrition are well-supported by research, others, such as certain supplements and extreme diets, lack robust clinical evidence.

Experts caution against quick fixes and emphasize traditional healthy practices like exercise, balanced diet, and good sleep.

Overall, while biohacking can offer benefits, it is essential to approach it with caution and under medical supervision to avoid potential harm.

Biohacking, a term originating from Silicon Valley, involves strategies to enhance health and longevity by optimizing one's biology through lifestyle changes.

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Content: Home » biohacking, reprogramming mind and body to live better

biohacking, reprogramming mind and body to live better

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It’s called “biohacking” and it comes from Silicon Valley. Listen: The long life diet: the longevity formula is calorie restriction …

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It’s called “biohacking” and comes from Silicon Valley.

A relatively new word that comes from the union of “biology” and “hacker” and indicates the attempt to positively influence the functioning of the organism, by hacking, ie trying to “force”, one’s genetic heritage. A strategy to live better and longer launched years ago by Californian top managers and which then spread throughout the world. How to upgrade the “operating system” of the human body? No manipulation, here we are talking about “reprogramming” and new lifestyles. “Our genetic heritage has enormous unexpressed potential that can be activated,” he explains Fabio Piccinidoctor and psychoanalyst, researcher of Food Sciences of theMarche Polytechnic University, author of the book “Biohacking Techniques: how to optimize metabolism to increase health and longevity”. “Biohacking aims to activate epigenetic modifications by awakening dormant genes to enhance the body’s resources.” While genetics studies the structure of DNA, epigenetics the way genes express themselves, i.e. how much they are turned on or off. “We’re talking about a set of strategies that aim to strengthen the body from a physical and mental point of view, first of all through nutrition, sleep quality, physical activity, cognitive stimulation”. One of the pillars of biohacking and the intermittent fasting, Piccini adds, which plans to concentrate the diet in a precise time span of the day (to be followed always under medical supervision). «But it is equally important to take care of sleep, we know very well that sleep debt accelerates aging and that 30-40 percent of people sleep too little. Just as it is essential to check thehydration. Physical training must also be intermittent, with recovery periods in place to allow the muscle layers to rebuild. And then, you have to keep learning something at any age, another pillar of biohacking: studying music or a new language, for example, to counteract cognitive degeneration”.

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THE QUALITY OF LIFE

Sandra Milo is one of the supporters of this well-being and longevity strategy. «I’m lucky, at 90 I’m in full health and I still have a great desire to enjoy life. I don’t know if it’s a matter of genetics, nor do I think there is a “magic formula” of longevity, but I have certainly always been careful to lead a healthy life. There is nothing more beautiful than reaching old age with a smile and in full autonomy », says the actress who baptized the first Biohacking Suite in Rome. “Our mission is not so much to lengthen life but to improve its quality by lowering the rate of morbidity,” explains Dr. Claudio Urbani, specialist in regenerative medicine, neuroscience and stress therapy, head of the longevity center Umb. «Biohacking aims to modify dormant functional responses from non-use, from muscular or cardiovascular function to flexibility. It is about regaining possession of the body and the mind-body axis, starting with stress management». Diagnosing your own state of “aging” involves a series of tests. «The measurement of oxidative stress which measures the quantity of free radicals and indicates any inflammatory states, plethysmography to evaluate the functionality of the microcirculation of the legs, impedancemetry to study body composition, fat and lean mass, nutritional status and hydration level. And only after the check is a tailor-made program created for each person. Among the suggested therapies, there is also that of the cold which stimulates the metabolism and reduces inflammation ».

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Popular methods include intermittent fasting, which concentrates eating within a specific time frame to potentially activate epigenetic modifications.

Nutrition plays a crucial role, with many biohackers adopting diets like gluten-free, dairy-free, keto, or the "bulletproof diet" to reduce inflammation and optimize gut health.

Title:

Content: TV legend Davinia Taylor has revealed how well she is feeling after undertaking a new lifestyle that involves biohacking.

Biohacking occurs when someone changes their nutrition and lifestyle in order to make themselves healthier. Each person who biohacks does so in a different way whether it’s cutting out alcohol, taking supplements, or engaging in anti-ageing procedures.

Davinia – who starred in Hollyoaks – has explained that her biohacking involves cold-water therapy and removing inflammatory foods from her diet.

As a result of her new lifestyle, which also includes the use of saunas and supplements, Davinia has said that she now feels healthier than she ever has before.

Speaking to Hello! Davinia said that she entered a difficult period of poor mental health after the death of her mother when she was 35.

She added: “Boredom drove me to drink and then to eat unhealthily. I don’t want to go into my 50s feeling bored, so I had to find another way to get the dopamine I crave.”

On the techniques she uses for her biohacking, Davinia reveals that one of her routine acts is taking supplements from a company she founded. Known as WillPowders which contain collagen, protein, bone broth, and MCT (a healthy form of saturated fat) they have become an essential part of her routine.

Davinia explained: “If I don’t have my morning keto creamer and collagen, I’m going to end up binging on croissants or brownies. It’s how I’m wired after my 1980s upbringing.”

This isn’t the first time Davinia has spoken about biohacking. Earlier this year she told the Evening Standard that it wasn’t a case of taking big measures to improve one’s health.

She said: “There's so much doom and gloom… There's so much doom and gloom…There are so many little hacks you can do just to make yourself feel mentally better.”

Davinia highlighted the benefits of cold-water therapy, a method she said can be cheap to access: “The water’s freezing in this country two-thirds of the time. And on the few months a year when it’s not, just go to the supermarket, buy some ice bags and empty them into the bath.”

Supplements are commonly used, such as collagen, protein, and MCT oil, to support metabolism and cognitive function.

Physical activity is another pillar, with biohackers often engaging in extreme exercises and practices like cold-water therapy to stimulate metabolism and reduce inflammation.

Mental health practices, including cognitive stimulation through learning new skills, are emphasized to counteract cognitive decline.

Stress management is also crucial, with techniques like neurofeedback therapy being explored to improve mental health outcomes.

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'It saved my life,' ADHD, trauma, OCD patients turn to neurofeedback therapy

Posted at 8:18 AM, Apr 05, 2024
and last updated 2024-04-05 08:18:12-04

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio — Cracking the code to wellness is now costing Americans $1.8 trillion annually.

For the average American, that breaks down to more than $5,300 per year.

Those numbers come from the Global Wellness Summit's 2024 trends report.

The report also shows that the global wellness economy, which generated $5.6 trillion in 2022, will continue to surge and reach $8.5 trillion within the next three years.

A driver of those staggering stats is ‘biohacking,’ which is the term for do-it-yourself biology.

It has generated 951 million views on TikTok and over on Google, there's been a 900% increase in searches for ‘biohacking.’

"The way that i like to describe it is using what we know about biology to help us become better versions of ourselves," said Britney Cirillo with Alternative Therapeutics.

‘Biohacking’ can be anything from using a smartwatch to track our heart rate to jumping in an ice bath and neuro-feedback therapy.

The idea behind neuro-feedback therapy is that we can essentially re-train our brain to tackle mental health issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and OCD, which Emily Dean suffered from for about a decade.

"Was pretty afraid to even leave my house alone. At my worst, I was unable to care for my physical health," said Dean.

Dean ultimately needed to check into the hospital as her mental health declined.

After being discharged, she discovered neurofeedback therapy.

"It completely changed my life," said Dean.

Dean said the sessions at Alternative Therapeutics in Cuyahoga Falls provided relief that medications and traditional therapies could not.

"We're not your average counseling practice," said Cirillo.

Cirillo uses neurofeedback therapy to balance electrical activity in a patient's brain, regulating delta, theta, alpha, and beta levels.

"If any of those brainwaves are being overproduced or underproduced, that will correlate with symptoms that the client is experiencing," said Cirillo.

The goal is to essentially retrain the brain using operant conditioning, a learning process in which voluntary behaviors are rewarded.

"We tell the brain to do a certain thing when it does that certain thing, they're rewarded instantly by that video game that they're playing," Cirillo.

I was so interested in how it works that Cirillo gave me a taste of a typical session.

My goal was to keep the flames of a fire burning bright and the sound of the crackling strong while playing a game on a tablet.

Cirillo was checking to make sure my brain was in an ideal zone.

I only sat there with the tablet for a short time, but a typical therapy session lasts about 20 minutes.

"And so, with more and more practice, the brain starts to recognize what it's supposed to do and it reinforces that pathway, strengthens it to the point that that's their new normal," said Cirillo.

Despite gaining popularity during this ‘biohacking craze,’ neurofeedback therapy is still considered experimental.

"I think it's an interesting phenomenon," said Dr. Robert Lufkin with the USC School of Medicine.

Lufkin said regulating the brain could give people better outcomes when it comes to their mental health.

"I think in my opinion, this can have beneficial effects on an individual," said Lufkin.

Lufkin said regardless of what form of ‘biohacking’ people choose, it's shifting the balance of the doctor-patient relationship.

"It's certainly exploding in recent years, and I think it reflects the fact that all of us as, as patients are taking control of our own health," said Lufkin.

Dean is beyond grateful she gained control.

"Neurofeedback therapy and Alternative Therapeutics saved my life," said Dean.

After completing 20 sessions five years ago, Dean has been able to maintain her progress with a few booster sessions, along with some tools to help her navigate the world.

A world that, for years, Dean navigated with crippling fear.

"Before neurofeedback I was afraid to go to the grocery store alone. Last year, I went to California alone. That is something that I never thought would be possible for me," said Dean.

With insurance companies still considering neurofeedback therapy experimental it is not covered.

However, Cirillo said many of her clients have success when they submit for out of network reimbursement.

On average, people will need about 20 sessions to get the end results they're looking for.

Medical screenings are part of the biohacking approach, with tests measuring oxidative stress, microcirculation, and body composition to tailor personalized health programs.

While some practices like exercise and balanced nutrition are well-supported by research, others, such as certain supplements and extreme diets, lack robust clinical evidence.

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PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel, 55, has stated that he will have his body cryogenically frozen when he dies in hopes of being revived in a distant future. Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, who at 59 looks like he could bench press his 40-year-old self, invested heavily in a startup that aims to keep people young by flushing out aged cells. Neither hold a candle to Bryan Johnson, the 46-year-old tech mogul who has spent US$2-million a year on an extensive list of therapies – from taking more than 100 pills a day to receiving blood transfusions from his teenage son – in an effort to reverse his biological clock.

The anti-aging industry has ballooned to a worldwide value of US$63-billion. Thanks to advances in technology, it has proliferated to include treatments that can be considered affordable. Middle-class Canadians, if they stretch a bit, can now buy injections to stimulate growth hormones, or get testosterone pellets implanted in their butt muscles to stave off signs of aging. Meanwhile, breakthroughs in the field of regenerative medicine are attempting to stretch our lifespans to new limits.

“There are a handful of emerging technologies that are helping people feel young for longer, and I believe they are the future,” said Shawn Seit, an aesthetics doctor at Toronto’s Rejuuv clinic, a privately owned medical centre that administers anti-aging treatments that range from Botox to hormone balancing and peptide therapy.

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Seit, slender with jet-black hair and a near-permanent smile, has been an aesthetics doctor for 20 years, after spending a stint as an emergency room physician. His personal anti-aging arsenal includes hormone balancing coupled with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Like his middle-aged, affluent clients, Seit chooses to see symptoms of old age such as muscle loss and even degenerative disease not as inevitable but as a sickness to combat, or even cure.

“In our society, we just accept that menopause, body degeneration and disease are things you just have to accept and go through when they come,” he said. “But it’s miserable, so why not delay it if you can?”

One of the most popular therapies Seit’s clinic offers is hormone balancing, where clients – often menopausal women or men in their 40s or above – receive doses of estrogen and testosterone to delay signs of aging such as muscle loss, belly fat gain, hot flashes and changes in libido. For longer-acting therapy, patients can opt to receive testosterone through one-centimetre-long, cylindrical pellets implanted in the buttocks three to four times a year. They can access those treatments, along with preliminary blood testing and nutritional counselling, for a crisp $4,000 a year.

For a yearly fee of $4,200, clients can also enlist in peptide therapy, which involves injecting a protein, sermorelin – thought to stimulate the production of growth hormones – into the stomach or thigh.

“People hear about these therapies and think we are looking to transform them into Arnold Schwarzenegger,” he said. “But it’s not about that – it’s about making you feel 30 when you are 50.”

These are far from the most radical or eyebrow-raising anti-aging therapies out there. Toronto’s Longevity House, a 9,000 square-foot facility that opened in 2021 and charges $100,000 for a lifetime membership, offers clients access to a suite of services such as red-light therapy, chakra therapy and electrical muscle-stimulation suits.

In the United States, startup Ambrosia started offering infusions of blood from teenagers and young adults in 2016, charging US$8,000 a litre, only to be shut down that same year after being dubbed unsafe by the FDA.

The dearth of robust scientific studies on these treatments is making some experts question their effectiveness and safety. Brett Finlay, a B.C.-based microbiologist and co-author of The Whole-Body Microbiome, says he wants to wait for results from clinical trials before believing in any trendy anti-aging method. The problem, he said, is the length of time it takes to collect such data. One longitudinal aging study from the Netherlands that set out to study the change in physical, emotional, cognitive and social functioning of people as they age has been continuing since 1992.

In the absence of data, Finlay fears that internet movements such as taking steroids for muscle growth or applying snake venom to wrinkles are motivating demand for quick fixes, which are clouding tried and true healthy practices.

“The truth is that we already have anti-aging methods, but they are incredibly boring and hard: It is exercise, eating a balanced diet with lots of fibre, good sleep and cultivating a good community of people around you,” said Finlay, adding that these lifestyle practices have been shown to reduce stress and inflammation, which are correlated with some of the most prevalent causes of death such as obesity-caused illnesses, diabetes, cancer, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

“Trends and fads come and go, whereas science just plods along and slowly gives us answers.”

While not always flashy, modern medicine and peer-reviewed science have extended the average Canadian lifespan by roughly 30 years since the early 1900s, mainly by decreasing infant mortality rates, Finlay said. However, the average lifespan in Canada has plateaued at around 81 years old since the 2010s, and the next leap could come from the field of regenerative medicine: new treatments to heal tissues and restore bodily function lost to aging or damage.

In January, a research team from Harvard led by biologist David Sinclair paused and even reversed the aging process in mice by essentially rebooting damaged cells to their stem cell state using gene therapy. As a result, old mice that had gone mostly blind regained the ability to see. Sinclair told the Harvard Gazette and wrote on his social media that this reset might one day be applied to humans and allow us to delay or cure diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s, though the researcher also noted that human trials and federal approval would still take many years.

In July, Sinclair’s team discovered that a grouping of chemicals consisting of anti-seizure medication, a cancer drug and a variety of molecules had a similar age-reversing effect in rats. While the cost of these treatments is difficult to predict, Sinclair told reporters this summer that the chemicals would be a “step towards affordable whole-body rejuvenation.”

Canadian research teams are also making breakthroughs in regenerative medicine. Toronto-based medical startup Acorn Biolabs has developed a method of extracting human cells from hair follicles, culturing them as stem cells, freezing them in cryotherapy and storing them for less than $16 a month until they are needed. The idea, said Acorn Biolabs co-founder Drew Taylor, is to store a person’s healthy cells and have them ready to produce whatever kind of tissue their owner may need later in life.

So far, Taylor’s team has regenerated cells for aesthetic purposes including hair growth and wrinkle removal, and athletic purposes such as accelerating bone recovery. He said their eventual goal is to use banked cells to create any tissue on demand – say, new pancreas cells for someone with diabetes – though that could still be a decade or more of research away. This has not stopped clients as young as 20 and as old as 80 to bank their cells in Acorn’s cryogenic chambers.

“We are on the precipice of leveraging our own cells to deliver us health,” said Taylor, who has been fascinated by medicine since watching his father, Ron, play professional baseball and then become team physician for the Toronto Blue Jays. “Regenerative medicine is the future of living healthily for longer.”

Finlay does not discount the possibility that a scientific breakthrough in regenerative medicine could eventually enhance our lifespans and revolutionize how we think about age.

“It’s thought that under absolutely pristine conditions, like a perfect diet, low stress, an active lifestyle and great genetics, people can live for up to 120 years,” he said. “That’s already pretty good, and I don’t think we have a magic bullet. But what if one day, we did. … That would be priceless.”

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Experts caution against quick fixes and emphasize traditional healthy practices like exercise, balanced diet, and good sleep.

Overall, while biohacking can offer benefits, it is essential to approach it with caution and under medical supervision to avoid potential harm.


The UAE is investing AED 200 billion ($54.5 billion) in renewable energy, including the world's largest solar plant in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region with a capacity of two gigawatts, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park in Dubai, which aims for five gigawatts.

Saudi Arabia is also making strides with a target of installing 40 GW of solar PV capacity by 2030, supported by strategic partnerships like that between Positive Zero and Tamimi Energy.

The UAE's Net Zero Strategic Initiative aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, promoting new industries and jobs.

Similarly, Egypt's solar Feed-In Tariff (FIT) program has attracted significant foreign investment, including a $635 million project to construct 11 solar plants with a combined capacity of 500 megawatts.

For instance, Egypt's solar projects are expected to spur economic growth and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In Saudi Arabia, the clean energy transformation is accelerating, with the Saudi Green Initiative aiming to increase renewable energy's share to 50% by 2030.

The UAE's investments in solar and broader renewable spaces are part of a strategy to reduce carbon intensity and lay the foundation for a zero-carbon hydrogen market.

These initiatives are crucial as the region prepares for a post-oil world, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and fostering sustainable economic development.

The UAE is investing AED 200 billion ($54.5 billion) in renewable energy, including the world's largest solar plant in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region with a capacity of two gigawatts, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park in Dubai, which aims for five gigawatts.

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Content: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues have become increasingly prominent on the global stage as organisations recognise the need to integrate sustainability into their operations.

As the Middle East moves towards a low carbon future, sustainability has become a top priority for organisations and governments across the region.

Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai announced while launching the National Hydrogen Strategy that the UAE is to invest up to AED 200 billion ($54.5 billion) in renewable energy.

The launch of a AED 4 billion renewable energy plant in Dubai,  and the world’s largest waste-to-energy plant are proof of sustainability climbing the agenda.

With COP 28 being held in the UAE this year, there is a renewed sense of urgency on climate change action, and the net-zero carbon target is being prioritised through policies and actions.

After all, sustainability will boost the UAE’s economic competitiveness, drive innovative policy and improve investment opportunities.

The region has seen notable sustainability innovations, including Saudi Arabia’s rapid transition to a circular carbon economy, Bahrain’s state oil company refinancing a $2.2 billion sustainability-linked corporate finance facility, and Oman’s exploration of green hydrogen as a clean energy source.

However, the Middle East faces its own unique challenges in implementing ESG practices, especially around accurate sustainability reporting and implementing early regulations to fill in previous gaps.

Other challenges that hinder the progress of the region’s ESG agenda include the talent gap, how corporates in the region address the need to implement ESG practices, as well as data availability.

Regulatory frameworks

While standardised frameworks and reporting guidelines begin to form, the lack of clear regulations can hinder consistent measurement and disclosure of ESG performance.

Global frameworks have now become more widely adopted in the region such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the newly published International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB).

The gap in standardisation previously posed challenges for investors and stakeholders who relied on transparent and comparable ESG data for decision-making, however, we are starting to see drastic changes in this area.

Data availability

Many companies in the Middle East still face challenges in collecting, managing, and reporting ESG data, which can hinder their ability to effectively assess and manage their sustainability performance.

Data is the first step to measure any status, but also measure progress. Improving data collection mechanisms and investing in robust reporting systems will be instrumental in addressing this challenge.

ESG talent gap

Organisations need individuals with specialised knowledge and expertise in ESG practices to drive sustainable strategies effectively. Alongside this specialised knowledge, the industry also needs innovators, risk takers, agitators for change, mentors, and communicators in the field. There is however, a shortage of skilled professionals in the region with a deep understanding of ESG principles to drive innovative solutions.

Bridging this gap requires investment in education and training programmes to build a skilled workforce capable of integrating ESG considerations into business practices. Universities and training institutions are therefore increasingly offering courses and programmes on sustainability and ESG and businesses are partnering with academic institutions to develop tailored training initiatives and internships, nurturing a pipeline of talent equipped with the required knowledge and skills.

These efforts will cultivate a sustainable workforce capable of implementing and driving ESG practices in the Middle East.

Implementation by region’s corporates

Despite the challenges, corporations in the Middle East are embracing ESG practices, recognising the importance of sustainability and responsible business conduct. We see this through accelerated electrification and the increase of decarbonizing energy supply.

The GCC’s oil-producing nations have made efforts to diversify energy sources, transitioning towards net-zero carbon fuels for transportation. Investments in renewable energy, such as solar and wind, aim to mitigate environmental impacts and promote a low-carbon economic future transforming the economic system and supply chain.

Additionally, social considerations are gaining prominence. Companies are addressing social issues through initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and employee welfare.

Governance practices are also being strengthened to ensure transparency, accountability, regulatory reforms and ethical conduct.

While obstacles in integrating ESG practices persist in the Middle East, corporates in the region are proactively embracing sustainability and responsible business practices.

That the Middle East is emerging as a leader in ESG adoption is apparent through their fullfillment of the UN SDG goals which has driven positive environmental, social, and governance outcomes for businesses and society as a whole.

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Content: World Future Energy Summit to focus on providing ‘sustainability blueprint’

The three-day event will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from January 16 to January 18

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The 2023 World Future Energy Summit aims to provide a “crucial sustainability blueprint” amid a global focus on the energy transition and measures to boost investment in the renewables sector.

Energy industry leaders and policymakers from around the world will participate in the three-day event at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from January 16 to January 18, organisers said on Wednesday.

The summit is the centrepiece of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, a global initiative championed by the UAE and Abu Dhabi's clean energy company Masdar to hasten sustainable development and advance economic, social, and environmental progress.

“This event has evolved just as the energy sector and our economies are transitioning,” said Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure.

“It has now morphed into the Middle East’s most important industry gathering, of which clean energy and infrastructure are key components.”

Countries in the Middle East such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman and Egypt are boosting investment in the clean energy sector.

The UAE is investing Dh600 billion ($163.5bn) in clean and renewable energy projects over the next three decades as it aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

It is building the world’s largest solar plant with a capacity of two gigawatts in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region that is expected to be ready next year, as well as the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park in Dubai with a capacity of five gigawatts.

Saudi Arabia, the Arab world’s largest economy, also announced a number of new renewable energy projects as it seeks to become carbon neutral by 2060.

Egypt, the most populous country in the Arab world, aims to derive 42 per cent of its electricity mix from renewable sources by 2035. The North African country is hosting Cop27 next month.

“This newly transitioned event profile is in the right place at the right time, underlining a much-needed shift towards reaching our clean energy goals, as well as achieving sustainable governance and adopting consumption and [the] production of natural energy methods that ensure the quality of life for current and future generations,” Mr Al Mazrouei said.

Renewable energy investment continued to rise amid green transition efforts globally. Capital investments in renewables are set to surpass oil and gas spending for the first time in 2022 as high power prices prompt countries to further diversify their energy mix, according to a report by Rystad Energy.

Investment in renewable energy is set to hit $494bn in 2022, outstripping upstream oil and gas spending at $446bn for the year, the Oslo-based energy consultancy said this month.

In addition to the focus on energy, water, eco-waste, solar, smart cities, climate and the environment, next year's event will also preside over the launch of a dedicated hydrogen innovation centre as demand for the clean fuel picks up globally amid green transition efforts, organisers said.

The event takes place at a time when the UAE is preparing to host Cop28 next year.

Updated: October 19, 2022, 10:41 AM
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Saudi Arabia is also making strides with a target of installing 40 GW of solar PV capacity by 2030, supported by strategic partnerships like that between Positive Zero and Tamimi Energy.

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Content:   • The agreement marks Positive Zero’s first strategic partnership in Saudi Arabia, boosting the group’s presence and reach across the Kingdom.
  • The collaboration will support attaining Saudi Arabia’s goal of installing 40 GW of solar PV capacity in line with Vision 2030.

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA): Positive Zero, the leading provider of decentralized energy solutions in the GCC, and Tamimi Energy, one of Saudi Arabia’s pioneers in integrated and sustainable energy services, have announced a strategic partnership to develop and deliver solar power projects across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The collaboration was formalized with the signing of a Partnership Agreement between SirajPower, Positive Zero’s distributed power generation subsidiary, and Energy Equipment Rental Company (ENERCO), one of Saudi Arabia’s leading power solutions providers under Tamimi Energy.  The agreement establishes a flexible framework for the two parties to leverage each other’s diverse solar project capabilities, enabling them to support the rapid growth of the Saudi clean energy market.

SirajPower and ENERCO will work together by leveraging their complementary capabilities for the development and financing of commercial and industrial solar power solutions across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This will include deploying human talent, equipment, technology, and other resources to the projects they secure jointly.

The partnership follows Positive Zero’s recent announcement of a landmark investment of up to $400 million from BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager with over $9.4 trillion in assets. The investment will boost Positive Zero’s growth and innovation in the GCC region, where it offers a range of decentralized decarbonization solutions, including solar power, energy efficiency, and mobile battery storage, to support the region’s energy transition and economic diversification goals, as well as the global efforts to combat climate change.

Salah Abdullatif, Executive General Manager at Tamimi Energy Holding Company, said:

"The pace of the clean energy transformation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is picking up rapidly, with the Saudi Green Initiative setting an ambitious target to increase the share of renewable energy to 50% of the primary energy mix by 2030. This is no small feat, and ENERCO, as a key subsidiary of Tamimi Energy, is ideally positioned to play a crucial role in this journey. Our collaboration with SirajPower and the Positive Zero group will perfectly complement Tamimi Energy’s capabilities and open up significant opportunities for both parties to accelerate the adoption of solar power across multiple sectors in the Kingdom."

David Auriau, Co-Founder and CEO of Positive Zero, commented on the occasion:

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is about to experience a surge in demand for clean energy, and photovoltaic solar power will be the foundation for meeting this demand as the key element of the National Renewable Energy Program of Vision 2030. To support attaining the goal of installing 40 GW of photovoltaic solar power by 2030, our partnership with Tamimi Energy will bring out the best of both our groups to the Saudi market, and we could not have chosen a better partner for Positive Zero’s first strategic partnership in the Kingdom. We look forward to playing a crucial role in the transformation of the Saudi energy sector through this agreement between SirajPower and ENERCO to bid on projects and deliver them together.”

Saudi Arabia is one of the top 10 countries in the world with the highest potential for producing centralized solar energy, according to the Shell Global Energy Resources Database, with the Kingdom approving new regulations over the past 18 months to enable the construction and provision of distributed solar energy solutions to increase the contribution of distributed solar PV power to the country’s energy mix.

Positive Zero’s foundational companies have already made remarkable strides in key GCC markets. SirajPower, the company's Distributed Generation arm, leads the region with a 200 MWp portfolio of distributed solar energy, reducing over 223 thousand metric tons of carbon emissions annually - an equivalent to powering over 43,000 homes every year. Taka Solutions, operating as the company's Energy Efficiency arm, has achieved energy savings exceeding 100,000 MWh across eight sectors in the United Arab Emirates, which is equivalent to planting more than three million trees. Situated under the company’s Clean Mobility vertical, our HYPR mobile battery units, the first clean energy delivery service in the region, have provided construction sites and other off-grid locations with cheaper and cleaner power.

About Positive Zero

Positive Zero is empowering a new energy economy by enabling businesses, communities, and cities in the Middle East region to take charge of their energy future. As the leading energy transition partner for the commercial, industrial, and public sectors, Positive Zero helps businesses achieve energy savings as high as 50% by removing upfront investments and operational complexities from the onset.

Positive Zero’s decarbonization-as-a-service offering combines clean technologies with data-driven solutions in distributed solar generation (SirajPower), energy efficiency (Taka Solutions) and clean mobility (fleet electrification, charging infrastructure and HYPR Energy) that reduce cost and consumption, and carbon footprint. In addition to financing, we offer end-to-end services, which means we manage the entire process from engineering, design, installation, construction, maintenance, and monitoring so that businesses can focus on what they do best.

For more information about Positive Zero, visit our website www.positivezero.com and our social media handles on LinkedIn /positivezerohq, Twitter @positivezerohq, and Instagram @positivezerohq.

For media inquiries please contact:
Carine Bouery
Head of Marketing
cbouery@positivezero.com

The UAE's Net Zero Strategic Initiative aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, promoting new industries and jobs.

Title:

Content: Energy transition provides opportunity to transform, diversify economy: Sultan Al Jaber

Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Special Envoy for Climate Change.

Globally, at least $3 trillion will be invested in renewable energy over the next ten years.

By WAM

Published: Tue 18 Jan 2022, 11:12 PM

Last updated: Tue 18 Jan 2022, 11:15 PM

The UAE sees the energy transition as an opportunity to transform and diversify the economic growth model of the country, according to Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Special Envoy for Climate Change.

Speaking during a virtual panel session titled ‘Projecting COP Ambitions across COP27 and COP28 and Economic Diversification Priorities Post-pandemic’ at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), Dr. Al Jaber explained how the UAE and the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region can take advantage of the drive to climate action.

Al Jaber was speaking alongside the Alok Sharma MP, President of COP26, and Sameh Shoukry, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt and President-Designate of COP27, during the session moderated by Fred Kempe, President and CEO of the Atlantic Council.

Al Jaber said, “This region has specific advantages that can accelerate the energy transition from our position as energy leaders. Firstly, as long as the world continues to rely on oil and gas we can ensure reliable supplies of the least carbon intensive oil and gas available. We are leveraging this position to further drive down the carbon intensity through expansion of the first in the region carbon capture facility.

“We are also building on our unique capabilities in hydrogen to lay the foundation for a zero carbon hydrogen market. And, as you know, the UAE has been investing in the solar and broader renewable space for the last 15 years, and we are doubling down on this investment.”

Al Jaber pointed out that globally, at least $3 trillion will be invested in renewable energy over the next ten years. He said this represents a multi-trillion dollar opportunity that the UAE, the region and its international partners can capitalise on. “In fact, this is the thinking behind our Net Zero Strategic Initiative. Net zero, for us, is about new industries, new skills and new jobs. For us, the business of tackling climate change is simply good business.”

Dr Al Jaber cited the recent strategic partnership between Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (Taqa), Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) which transformed Masdar into a global clean energy powerhouse.

He said the new Masdar has almost doubled its renewable energy capacity and the ambition is to build on this solid foundation to reach 100 gigawatts (GW). Al Jaber called for partners, in the public and private sectors, to join the UAE and Masdar in delivering these ambitious goals that will lead to new industries, new skills, new jobs and new opportunities.

Responding to a question on the outcome of COP26 (the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference), Dr. Al Jaber noted it was a success as Glasgow united 90 per cent of the world’s economy on the path to net zero. “COP 26 also succeeded in launching many coalitions between governments and businesses to accelerate innovation. AIM for Climate, which the UAE launched with the US and 34 other countries is a good example. This is a growing coalition that directs investment to agri-tech to reduce agricultural emissions, which account for as much a third of global emissions. And critically COP26 finally reached a deal on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which lays the foundation for effective carbon markets. All of this creates great momentum and a great platform which Egypt and the UAE can, and will, build on.”

On COP28 which is set to take place in Abu Dhabi in 2023, Al Jaber highlighted that it will mark the first ever global stocktake that will show us how we are tracking towards the Paris goals and, critically, it will set the roadmap towards 2030 and beyond. He added that the UAE is already working closely with the UK and Egypt to continue the momentum of COP26 and went on to detail the UAE’s approach to COP28.

“We want Abu Dhabi to be where the world turn pledges into concrete results and help take commercially viable climate solutions to scale around the world. This is why we want COP 28 to be as inclusive as possible, reflecting the views of developed alongside developing countries, the public and private sectors and scientists and civil society.”

“Inclusive also means including the expertise that exists across the energy spectrum, and specifically the hydrocarbon industry, because if we want to successfully transition to the energy system of tomorrow, we cannot simply unplug from the energy system of today. We need to make the current system work more efficiently with less carbon. We should leverage expertise from across the energy sector to find the climate solutions we need,” said Al Jaber as he stressed the need to always remember that the goal is to hold back emissions, not progress. — Wam

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Similarly, Egypt's solar Feed-In Tariff (FIT) program has attracted significant foreign investment, including a $635 million project to construct 11 solar plants with a combined capacity of 500 megawatts.

Title:

Content: $635mn investment approved to build and operate 11 solar plants in Egypt

By James Henderson
The Board of Executive Directors of IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, has approved an investment of $635mn that will help construct, ope...

The Board of Executive Directors of IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, has approved an investment of $635mn that will help construct, operate and maintain up to 11 solar power plants in Egypt.

The combined capacity of the plants amount to 500 megawatts, and will be one of the largest private foreign direct investments in the country’s power sector in recent years.

Part of Egypt's landmark solar Feed-In Tariff (FIT) program, the $730mn project in Benban, near Aswan, aims to mobilise private investment to build the world's largest solar photovoltaic generation park, harnessing the country’s vast solar resources.

SEE ALSO:

As well as helping to spur economic growth, the project will help drive the local economy, including the creation of temporary and long-term jobs and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions

“This landmark investment demonstrates that when you have the right reform policies, and a government willing to allow greater involvement by the private sector, you can attract investors in every sector, including infrastructure,” said Mouayed Makhlouf, IFC Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

“Investments like these are the nucleus for economic growth, which is needed in Egypt.”

Egypt’s solar FIT program, which includes projects financed by other institutions like the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Proparco, is expected to be one of the largest foreign direct investments in years, attracting investments of up to $2bn.

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For instance, Egypt's solar projects are expected to spur economic growth and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In Saudi Arabia, the clean energy transformation is accelerating, with the Saudi Green Initiative aiming to increase renewable energy's share to 50% by 2030.

The UAE's investments in solar and broader renewable spaces are part of a strategy to reduce carbon intensity and lay the foundation for a zero-carbon hydrogen market.

These initiatives are crucial as the region prepares for a post-oil world, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and fostering sustainable economic development.

Title:

Content: Fossil fuels, which have powered the industrial growth and development of civilisations for centuries, are facing a looming deadline of depletion. Moreover, they have caused severe environmental and social problems, such as climate change, conflicts, and pollution. The need for alternative and sustainable energy sources is clear and urgent. However, the transition to a post-fossil fuel era is not easy or straightforward. It requires innovation, investment, cooperation, and vision.

This article explores the challenges and opportunities of global energy transformation, focusing on the dual nature of fossil fuels, the countdown to their exhaustion, and the promise of renewable energy sources. It also highlights the progress and potential of some countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which is one of the most dependent regions on fossil fuels in the world.

Fossil Fuels: A Double-Edged Sword

Fossil fuels, comprising oil, coal, and natural gas, are ancient energy sources that have been central to the development of various industries and sectors. They have enhanced transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, and electricity generation. They have catalysed global trade, commerce, and innovation, elevating the quality of life for millions.

However, this ascent has been coupled with profound challenges. Fossil fuels have been a source of geopolitical strife, epitomised by wars and conflicts over their control and distribution. They have also exacerbated environmental issues, such as greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, and climate change. Incidents like oil spills, gas leaks, and fracking have inflicted severe damage on ecosystems and public health.

The Countdown to Depletion

The finite and non-renewable nature of fossil fuels leaves humanity facing a daunting deadline. Predicting the exact exhaustion of these resources is a complex endeavour, influenced by reserves, consumption rates, technological advancements, and price fluctuations. Nonetheless, projections based on current data paint a concerning picture.

According to Octopus Energy, the year 2060 may mark the twilight of fossil fuels, based on current consumption and reserve estimates. In 2020, global oil production reached 91.7 million barrels per day (b/d), with key players like the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Russia at the forefront. Simultaneously, natural gas production stood at 3.94 trillion cubic meters (bcm). Although the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily curtailed production, a resurgence is anticipated. In contrast, natural gas consumption steadily rises by over 3% each year.

Should additional oil reserves remain elusive, known deposits could be depleted by 2052. The stark reality is that demand for oil has surged, nearly doubling the average annual rate observed over the preceding decade in 2018.

Toward a Sustainable Energy Paradigm

The global imperative for alternative energy sources is clear. Sustainable options, even if not entirely devoid of environmental impact, have become a linchpin of energy discussions. The quest for sustainability is no longer optional; it is fundamental to securing a prosperous future.

Embracing alternative and sustainable energy solutions is our paramount responsibility. The adverse consequences of persisting with fossil fuels are increasingly undeniable. Furthermore, incidents such as oil spills, gas leaks, and fracking have grievously scarred ecosystems and human health.

The geopolitical maelstrom surrounding fossil fuels is a testament to their strategic importance. By reducing our dependence on these finite resources, we can contribute to global stability and peace.

The Promise of Sustainable Energy

Investing in sustainable energy is not merely an ecological commitment; it is a strategic move to safeguard long-term energy security. Renewable sources like solar and wind power do not suffer the same spectre of depletion as fossil fuels, offering a reliable and sustainable energy future. Moreover, technology’s relentless march is enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these alternatives, ensuring a seamless transition.

In this era of unprecedented global challenges, the unsustainable trajectory of fossil fuels is no longer tenable. Transitioning to renewable and sustainable energy sources is both a moral imperative and an economic necessity. As we confront the relentless march of climate change, endeavouring to secure long-term energy stability and foster global peace, embracing this transformation is our only viable path toward a sustainable and prosperous future. It is a journey we must embark upon with unwavering determination and foresight.

The MENA Region: The abundance of wisdom

The MENA region stands as an interesting case study for global energy transformation. The region is one of the most dependent regions on fossil fuels in the world. According to the World Bank, the region accounted for 36% of the global oil production and 20% of the global gas production in 2018. However, the region also faces many challenges and risks related to its reliance on fossil fuels, such as price volatility, environmental degradation, social unrest, and geopolitical conflicts.

Therefore, some countries in the region have started to prepare for the transition to a post-fossil fuel era by diversifying their economies, investing in renewable energy sources, and promoting innovation and sustainability. According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the MENA region has a huge potential for renewable energy development, especially solar and wind power. The report estimates that the region could generate more than 60% of its total electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

Some of the countries that have made significant progress in this field are:

• UAE: The UAE has been a leader in innovation and sustainability in the region, with a vision of becoming a global hub for green economy and clean energy. The UAE has set a target of increasing its share of clean energy to 50% by 2050. The UAE has invested in various renewable energy projects, such as the Shams 1 solar thermal plant, which is one of the largest of its kind in the world, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is planned to be the largest single-site solar park in the world by 2030. The UAE is also home to Masdar City, which is a planned city that aims to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world. Also, UAE is one of the 10 largest oil producing countries with a proven reserves, according to BP statistical reviews, of 100 billion barrels.

• Morocco: Morocco has been a pioneer in renewable energy development in the region, with a target of achieving 52% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Morocco has invested heavily in solar power projects, such as the Noor Ouarzazate complex, which is the largest concentrated solar power plant in the world. Morocco also has a strong wind power sector, with a capacity of over 1.2 gigawatts (GW) as of 2019.

• Egypt: Egypt has also been pursuing an ambitious renewable energy strategy, with a goal of reaching 42% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2035. Egypt has a large potential for solar and wind power, especially in the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea coast. Egypt has launched several large-scale projects, such as the Benban Solar Park, which is expected to be the largest solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in the world when completed, and the Zafarana Wind Farm, which is one of the largest wind farms in Africa.

These are some examples of countries in the MENA region that are prepared for after fossil fuels era. However, there are still many challenges and barriers that need to be overcome, such as policy and regulatory frameworks, financing and investment mechanisms, public awareness and participation, and regional cooperation and integration.

The world is at a crossroads in its energy choices. Fossil fuels have been instrumental in driving industrial growth and development, but they have also caused severe environmental problems. Their finite nature also poses a threat to long-term energy security. The need for alternative and sustainable energy sources is clear and urgent.

Renewable energy sources offer a promising solution to this challenge. They are abundant, reliable, and sustainable. They can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate climate change impacts, and foster global peace. They can also create new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and social welfare.

— Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi is a former UAE minister of Infrastructure Development and for Climate Change and Environment


Public figures like NBA player Kyrie Irving and NFL players such as Sammy Watkins and Darius Slay have publicly expressed belief in the Flat Earth theory, although some, like Irving, have later claimed they were joking or have changed their views.

Flat Earth organizations, while not extensively documented in the sources, often use social media platforms to spread their ideas, leveraging the viral nature of platforms like TikTok to reach a wide audience.

Arguments used by flat-earthers typically involve questioning the validity of photographic evidence from space, claiming it is manipulated, and pointing to personal observations, such as the perceived flatness of the horizon, as proof.

The resurgence of Flat Earth beliefs can be attributed to a broader distrust in scientific and governmental institutions, often linked to a rise in conspiracy theories that question established knowledge.

People who subscribe to these beliefs may be drawn to the sense of community and identity that comes from being part of a group that challenges mainstream views.

Additionally, the spread of misinformation online allows these ideas to gain traction among those who are skeptical of authority or who enjoy engaging with alternative theories for entertainment or attention.

As a concerned parent, it may be wise to discuss critical thinking and the importance of scientific evidence with your child, while also being open to understanding their perspective and encouraging respectful dialogue.

Public figures like NBA player Kyrie Irving and NFL players such as Sammy Watkins and Darius Slay have publicly expressed belief in the Flat Earth theory, although some, like Irving, have later claimed they were joking or have changed their views.

Title:

Content: “Everyone Gets Hit in the Head”: Travis and Jason Kelce Boldly Claim 20% NFL Players Are Flat-Earthers

Samnur Reza
Published

Eight-time NBA All-Star and Mavericks point guard, Kyrie Irving, has time and time again claimed that the earth is flat. Sadly, this belief is widely held around the globe. When discussing the same and if there are NFL players who also call themselves flat-earthers behind closed doors, Jason Kelce and his brother Travis boldly claimed that a good chunk of the NFL locker room actually believes the earth to be flat.

During a recent episode of the New Heights podcast with comedian Andrew Santino at the discussion table, the younger Kelce said, “We’ve mentioned on the show that conspiracy theories help bring NFL locker rooms together,” before asking the guest, “What are your conspiracy theories?”

Without skipping a beat, Santino posed the question about what percentage of NFL players actually believe in the Flat Earth theory. In response, Travis claimed that at least 10 to 15 athletes in every locker room are flat-earthers. Jason Kelce, however, added that if someone were to conduct an anonymous poll about it, the number of flat-earth believers could potentially jump up to 20%, equating to approximately 11 players out of a 53-man roster.

“Dude, honestly, there are at least 10 to 15 guys in every locker room; I would imagine,” Travis remarked, followed by Jason adding, “If you took an anonymous poll like nobody had to disclose their name or anything like that, you’re over 15% of an NFL locker room… Maybe over 20.”

This revelation baffled the Ricky Stanicky actor, but Travis consoled him by jokingly saying, “Dude, everyone gets hit in the head.” Nevertheless, while the Kelce duo’s numbers may be somewhat exaggerated, there have been some instances when NFL players have openly admitted believing in the earth being flat.

Darius Slay, Sammy Watkins, and Others Are Flat-Earthers

As per Sports Illustrated, free agent wide receiver Sammy Watkins claimed back in 2017 that the earth is flat. But he isn’t the only NFL athlete on that list, as Eagles CB Darius Slay told Tori Petry of DetroitLions.com back in 2018 that the earth is flat.

“I mean, I think it is (flat), we’re walking flat, so how is it round?,” claimed the All-Pro cornerback.

Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen followed suit just last year and claimed the same thing. “PSA,” Queen wrote in a tweet. “Earth is flat. Thank you. Carry on!!”

The list goes on! Former Texas Tech safety, Tyler Owens, apparently told reporters at the Scouting Combine that he doesn’t believe in space or any other planets. Thus, he finds the Flat Earth Theory ‘interesting’ and ‘valid’.

“Nah, I don’t believe in space…. like, you know, I’m religious, so I think like… we’re on our own right now. I don’t think there’s, like, other planets, and stuff like that. I don’t know,” Owens said, as per DailyMail.

Even Seahawks QB Geno Smith has claimed that the whole thing is still up for debate. Moreover, Jason Kelce once revealed that, out of curiosity, he had asked one of his coaches about the Flat Earth Theory and if anyone believed in it. Right there and then, an athlete nearby said, “I mean how you know it isn’t?”

Despite its absurdity, the debate will rage on till the end of time, it seems. However, there are simple experiments that can be conducted in front of a flat-earther to convince them otherwise, as perfectly demonstrated by Wired.

About the author

Samnur Reza

Samnur Reza, or "Rocky," is an NFL editor for the SportsRush. Although his love for football began with Tom Brady, he’s now a devoted fan of Jalen Hurts and is keeping his fingers crossed for the first ring. When asked how he remains loyal to the Eagles, he channels his inner Jim from The Office and responds, 'On a wing and a prayer.' Much like his love for football, Rocky is a dedicated cinephile with an impressive amount of screen time. He’s also fond of cats and has a furry friend named ‘Eva’.

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Title:

Content: Kyrie Irving’s Flat Earth Theory Revisited: How Did Scientist Neil deGrasse Tyson React to It?

Tonoy Sengupta
|Sun Oct 16 2022

Kyrie Irving has some rather interesting theory on the planet we live on

Kyrie Irving sure is an interesting guy.

Of course, his ability on the basketball is a sight to behold. However, his thoughts and ideologies off it are something the NBA community has had its eye on for a long time too.

Over the years, he has come to be known as the man who is absent from the team for about half the year tending to one cause or another. Though it must be noted that there is a massive amount of exaggeration at play in all the conversations regarding them.

But frankly, his tendency to take holidays off work isn’t exactly weak either.

However, this is Kyrie during his most recent years in the league, a stark contrast to how he was at the start of his career. But it had to have started somewhere, right?

Well, apparently it did. And frankly, fans should’ve known the kind of person they were in for after this little incident was revealed.

Also Read: When Dennis Rodman teared up after his friend North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un met with former US President Donald Trump

Kyrie Irving once believed the Earth is Flat

There are shockingly a whole bunch of Flat Earthers on this planet of ours to this day. And apparently, Kyrie Irving was once a part of that army.

Now admittedly, the original clip of him admitting he believes in the Flat Earth theory can no longer be found. However, there are several clips of him justifying his stance on the matter, one of which is right here, below.

There are also clips of him claiming that he was only joking when he spoke about believing the flat earth theory, so frankly, he may deserve to be cut some slack here. Furthermore, even if he believed it several years ago, there is a strong chance that his beliefs have changed completely.

However, if the man still believes in the theory, that is quite something, isn’t it?

At this point, even most scientists would probably just find themselves chuckling on the matter, rather than be exasperated.

But until Irving announces his current beliefs, one can only speculate.

Neil deGrasse Tyson once shared his thoughts on Kyrie Irving’s backing of the Flat Earth theory

When it comes to scientists, Neil deGrasse Tyson is probably the most well-liked one out there, on the face of this planet.

Whenever he is brought on a show of any kind, he has been asked questions about space, aliens, and even some questions on theoretical physics concepts, such as the Multiverse theory.

But never had he been asked to react to a basketball player in any kind of way. Or at least, that wasn’t the case, until the Kyrie Irving incident.

And here was his reaction.

While he does seem to be speaking facts, and trying to go about this in a logical manner, he does seem a tad bit snarkier than usual.

We can’t imagine Kyrie Irving being the biggest fan of that.

Also Read: Michael Jordan, Who Refused to Back Black Political Candidates, Appreciated ‘Bishop of Brixton’ Jimmy Rogers’ Communal Work

About the author

Tonoy Sengupta

I've always been someone surrounded by sports. At 15 though, Basketball was brought to my attention, and I absolutely fell in love with it. At 21 now, I look to share the joy I feel with the world through my articles.

Read more from Tonoy Sengupta

What NBA star claimed that the earth is flat?

What NBA star claimed that the earth is flat?

Flat Earth organizations, while not extensively documented in the sources, often use social media platforms to spread their ideas, leveraging the viral nature of platforms like TikTok to reach a wide audience.

Title:

Content: 9 of TikTok's most controversial and viral conspiracies - including Area 51, One Direction and JonBenét Ramsey

These are the top nine viral conspiracy theories which are being discussed on TikTok right now - including theories about celebrities and mythical creatures
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From secret societies to extraterrestrial enigmas, people like to discuss conspiracy theories. There are many things which do not make sense in this world, and some things which have had people stumped for decades. In some cases, people hope to finally uncover the truth behind some unsolved mysteries, and in others they are convinced something is being hidden.

To find out what the most widely discussed conspiracy theories are in 2024, VegasSlotsOnline has analysed the number of TikTok hashtags for over 45 of the biggest conspiracy theories worldwide, to determine the most popular conspiracies of 2024. The following are the nine top theories which have gone viral on the popular social media platform.

Illuminati

The Illuminati were originally a secret society founded in Bavaria in the 1700s, intending to replace Christianity with a “religion of reason”. The group was said to be shut down by the government after a decade, but some conspiracy theorists believe the society still exists today - and not only that it's operating in secret with a plan to take over the world. Famous figures accused of being part of the Illuminati include US presidents, pop singers and actors.

27 club

Despite sounding like a fun, exclusive society, the 27 Club definitely isn’t one you would want to be in. The name refers to a list of celebrities who have also passed away at age 27, including Jimi Hendrix, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kurt Cobain, and Amy Winehouse, to name just a few.

Area 51

Area 51 refers to a highly classified United States Air Force facility in Nevada, and it’s very real. The conspiracy theories behind it, however, may not be. The base’s top-secret nature has led to a range of wild theories over the years, with the most popular being that it’s used to carry out research on UFOs and extraterrestrial beings that the US government is keeping under wraps.

JonBenét Ramsey is alive

JonBenét Ramsey, aged 6, was supposedly killed in her family home in 1996. Her killer has never been officially identified, but there are many unusual details about the case, such as a ransom note found in the family’s home, that have sparked a range of popular theories over the years. One particularly outlandish theory is that JonBenét has not died and is actually still alive, despite evidence to the contrary.

'Larries'

‘Larries’ are hardcore One Direction fans who support the idea that Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson, former bandmates of the hugely popular boyband, are in a romantic relationship. Despite the two artists repeatedly denying these claims, many fans are still insistent that the band’s former management encouraged the pair to keep their relationship secret. Styles is dating model and actress Taylor Russell. Tomlinson is said to be growing close to his on/off girlfriend Eleanor Calder again.

Murder of John Lennon

Beatles musician John Lennon was fatally shot in December 1980 at the age of 40 by an enraged fan. Ever since, conspiracy theories suggesting that the CIA were involved in his death have sprung up in various places, including books and documentaries. The CIA and FBI kept eyes on Lennon due to his left-wing activism, and theorists have suggested that his murderer, Mark Chapman, was operating on their behalf.

BigFoot

The legend of BigFoot dates back thousands of years and is now a modern household name. Theorists believe that a dangerous ape-like creature exists in the forests of North America, occasionally revealing itself to hikers and campers. Many have shared supposed encounters in the form of giant footprints and blurry photographs, though there is still no credible evidence to prove the creature’s existence.

Planet X

Planet X, sometimes known as the Nibiru cataclysm, is a doomsday conspiracy theory with roots in the early 20th century. Its believers theorise that an undiscovered large planet in our solar system will, at some point, collide with Earth. This hypothetical planet is not recognised in mainstream astronomy, however, and is generally rejected by the scientific community for lacking substantial evidence.

Flat earth

One of social media’s most prevalent conspiracy theories is that the Earth is flat in shape rather than a sphere. Many ‘flat earthers’ reject scientific evidence, such as gravity and satellite imagery, with some even suggesting that governments and corporations are keeping the earth’s flat shape a secret from the masses. The flat earth theory is frequently disproved as it contradicts solid scientific principles.

Arguments used by flat-earthers typically involve questioning the validity of photographic evidence from space, claiming it is manipulated, and pointing to personal observations, such as the perceived flatness of the horizon, as proof.

Title:

Content: Virgin Galactic's history-making space launch has left flat Earth conspiracy theorists losing their minds at the surface of the planet.

Fuming conspiracy theorists believe the recent live stream footage of three civilian astronauts heading into space proves they are correct about their claims.

A few comments on the YouTube livestream saw the nutters break through with their wild theories, foaming at the mouth as they pointed out the lack of "oval" in the Earth.

READ MORE: Virgin Galactic's first civilian spaceflight enters space with Olympian onboard

Their comments were drowned out by furious believers in the spherical nature of the planet, telling others not to "feed the flat earth trolls" as they vied for attention.

One mad comment read "THAT DOESNT LOOK LIKE AN OVAL TO ME," while another equally reasonable individual added: "LOOK AT IT??!!! WHERE IS THE CURVE IN THE EARTH?!!"

Their totally sane comments come as the Richard Branson-owned company set off on a history making flight, taking a former Olympian and a mother-daughter duo to the edges of the atmosphere.

The trio' weightless triumph was not all good news though as a small collection of conspiracy-mad individuals believed it was evidence of a flat Earth.

A third tin foil hat wearer added: "This looks like a flat earth to me."

But cooler heads in the comments prevailed, or tried to, as they hit back at those claiming the earth was flat and tried to reason with those responding to the conspiracy nuts.

One person wrote: "Between the flat-Earthies and the anti-woke twits, this chat is a bit of a fail. Congrats to the crew and the passengers and the people who aren't all bottom hurt by other people doing things."

Another added: "Don't feed the flat earth trolls."

But still the conspiracy-mad members of chat pushed on, with some saying "you can literally see the flat edge of earth" while another, quite plainly, wrote: "IT IS FLAT."

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What scientific evidence do "flat earthers" reject?

The resurgence of Flat Earth beliefs can be attributed to a broader distrust in scientific and governmental institutions, often linked to a rise in conspiracy theories that question established knowledge.

People who subscribe to these beliefs may be drawn to the sense of community and identity that comes from being part of a group that challenges mainstream views.

Additionally, the spread of misinformation online allows these ideas to gain traction among those who are skeptical of authority or who enjoy engaging with alternative theories for entertainment or attention.

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  Satanic Church installs statue of Baphomet next to Nativity in Illinois State Capitol. Naturally, the Catholic Bishop is outraged, because main tenets of the CoS are to never harm children and sex is only okay when consensual   (yahoo.com)
    More: Ironic, Christmas, United States Capitol, Satanic Temple, year's display, third year, Sunday, Springfield, Illinois, satanic holiday
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1236 clicks; posted to Main » on 21 Dec 2021 at 1:19 PM (1 hour ago)   |   Favorite   |   Watch    |   share:

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should have no place in this Capitol

He is so close to getting it, so close.

I love how Jesus be comin' into people right and left, but the Devil needs consent to enter.

I love the Satanic Temple

labman: I love the Satanic Temple

The Playboy Foundation used to fight for our first amendment rights. Now, it seems the Satanic Temple has taken over the fight. More power to 'em!

Hey, Christians: If a government facility allows holiday symbols of one religion, they should be required to allow any others that want to do likewise. Shut up and deal with it. Or resign yourselves to not doing a display on government property.

/Presbyterian

Cafe Threads: labman: I love the Satanic Temple

The Playboy Foundation used to fight for our first amendment rights. Now, it seems the Satanic Temple has taken over the fight. More power to 'em!

The Freedom From Religion Foundation does some good work, too. Looking for a last minute Christmas Gift for your God bothering friends and relatives? Sponsor a membership for them!

https://ffrf.org/

Squid_for_Brains: I love how Jesus be comin' into people right and left, but the Devil needs consent to enter.

And even when Jesus does bother to ask for permission, well...

Satanic Temple and Church of Satan are different orgs.

Satanic Temple are atheists pushing for separation of church and state.

Church of Satan are Randians...

Did Yahoo disable comments on their site? That used to be the only reason to ever click on a yahoo news article. To lol at the rubes...

#OnlyFair

Satan is pretty farking cool.

From all the stories I have read about them they seem like really chill folks.

Not to mention the time they schooled Megyn Kelly about the law. I loved that video but can't find it.

HURR DURR DURR

/finger up nose

swaniefrmreddeer: should have no place in this Capitol

He is so close to getting it, so close.

Yep. Unfortunately he's likely just saying it because he's opposed to TST's message and/or thinks that his faith has exclusivity rights on winter festivals despite the fact that such festivals existed centuries before a random carpenter's child bride had to figure out a way to explain why she was pregnant despite never having consummated the marriage.

I envisioned this as I was reading:

Then this:

Bertuccio: Satanic Temple and Church of Satan are different orgs.

Satanic Temple are atheists pushing for separation of church and state.

Church of Satan are Randians...

It's like the flat Earth people.
There are flat Earth people who know Earth isn't flat, but are making a point. Or a joke. Or even just like attention.
Then there are flat Earth people who think the Earth is flat.

Hail the goat ya'll

jaivirtualcard: From all the stories I have read about them they seem like really chill folks.

Not to mention the time they schooled Megyn Kelly about the law. I loved that video but can't find it.

Megyn Kelly Talks To Smart-Ass, One-Eyed Satanist "Lucien" Greaves

Ah, Springfield, Illinois, the town I was born and grew up in. I left for good when I was 18, that was about 18 years too late.

I've travelled all over the US since then, and rarely seen a town so beknighted. You'd think the state capitol would have a certain amount of sophistication and cosmopolitanism. Unfortunately, you'd be wrong.

Jake Havechek: Satan is pretty farking cool.

Well yeah - the one who wanted Adam and Steve to have knowledge?  Ovby the BAD guy according to the church.

vilesithknight: Did Yahoo disable comments on their site? That used to be the only reason to ever click on a yahoo news article. To lol at the rubes...

Only on some articles.  Non-controversial articles have comments, nope on controversial ones.

The Satanic Temple is also fighting anti-abortion laws in TX and elsewhere by invoking the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Satanists believe in complete bodily autonomy.

Now we need a display from the Sex Temple.

I bet he thinks being a bishop is pretty special too.

Guy can only move diagonally. Loser.

Damn that Sol Invictus. He's the reason shabbos got moved from Friday to Sunday.

/don't roll on shabbos

Presbyterian pastor here, chiming in, and I'm fine with Baphomet being there if the nativity scene is there.
But honestly, none of it should be there. Put that shiat in your meeting places, not on government property.

SOL INVICTUS!

Got nothing of than a good laugh from what the Bishop spluttered, and I'm Irish Catholic.

PirateKing: I bet he thinks being a bishop is pretty special too.

Guy can only move diagonally. Loser.

RaptorLC: swaniefrmreddeer: should have no place in this Capitol

He is so close to getting it, so close.

Yep. Unfortunately he's likely just saying it because he's opposed to TST's message and/or thinks that his faith has exclusivity rights on winter festivals despite the fact that such festivals existed centuries before a random carpenter's child bride had to figure out a way to explain why she was pregnant despite never having consummated the marriage.

pregnant at 12

/her body is reddy...

Cute. They should really consider selling Baby Baphomet ornaments. I think they'd make bank.

Squid_for_Brains: I love how Jesus be comin' into people right and left, but the Devil needs consent to enter.

i mean duh. If of course we assume the point of the devil is to in fact be evil.
So what's more evil sounding?

that you physical over power someone to force on them what they do not want.
or
that you manipulate them into believing they want that and actually asking for it themselves, thus giving consent, when they will ultimately regret this later, becasue they were just manipulated into believing they did want this by someone with more intellectual horse power to exploit them with then they had to defend themselves from such exploitation.

And so under those conditions, used such power, not for the uplift and protection of the weak, but to better exploit them.

I'd say that for sure sound like the path of greater evil, at least to me anyway.
And so makes more sense to be the teachings of the supernatural figure intended to represent evil.

RaptorLC: swaniefrmreddeer: should have no place in this Capitol

He is so close to getting it, so close.

Yep. Unfortunately he's likely just saying it because he's opposed to TST's message and/or thinks that his faith has exclusivity rights on winter festivals despite the fact that such festivals existed centuries before a random carpenter's child bride had to figure out a way to explain why she was pregnant despite never having consummated the marriage.

Jake Havechek: [Fark user image 425x239]

The Satanist should run, he's staring at the face of true evil....

Bertuccio: Satanic Temple and Church of Satan are different orgs.

Satanic Temple are atheists pushing for separation of church and state.

Church of Satan are Randians...

And both are more honorable and noble than republicans.

There's one video from O'Reilly interviewing this lady from either Church of Satan or the Satanic Temple, I can't remember which, but O'Reilly gets visibly scared even though they're not in the same studio.

Bertuccio: Satanic Temple and Church of Satan are different orgs.

Satanic Temple are atheists pushing for separation of church and state.

Church of Satan are Randians...

They do agree on the bits about consent and not hurting children.

guestguy: [Fark user image image 213x237]

Jake Havechek: Satan is pretty farking cool.

Cake - Satan Is My Motor

A Cave Geek: Bertuccio: Satanic Temple and Church of Satan are different orgs.

Satanic Temple are atheists pushing for separation of church and state.

Church of Satan are Randians...

And both are more honorable and noble than republicans.

Randians are never noble.

Mötley Crüe - God Bless The Children Of The Beast

Squid_for_Brains: I love how Jesus be comin' into people right and left, but the Devil needs consent to enter.

That's why we prefer Satan. He always asks: Can I cum inside?

My idol is more important that your idol!

Ivo Shandor: Bertuccio: Satanic Temple and Church of Satan are different orgs.

Satanic Temple are atheists pushing for separation of church and state.

Church of Satan are Randians...

They do agree on the bits about consent and not hurting children.

tansa: Looking for a last minute Christmas Gift for your God bothering friends and relatives? Sponsor a membership for them!

https://ffrf.org/

Forget Capitol City.
Do something about this monstrosity in Effingham.
Just don't burn it, they might like it there.

"As Satanic Temple members installed the display Monday, the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property Poverty recited the rosary next to the Nativity scene."

Oh he has a problem with that?

Well I have a problem with real evil, ffs.
Aljazeera: priest jailed for 12 years for sex abuse of minors in East Timor

So how about STFU until there are no more priest abusing kids.

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