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Oracle has unveiled the world’s first zettascale cloud computing cluster, a breakthrough that positions the tech giant at the forefront of artificial intelligence (AI) supercomputing. This innovative infrastructure is designed to deliver unprecedented processing power and scalability, catering to the growing demands of both enterprises and researchers.

The new zettascale cluster, named Oracle Exascale Cloud, represents a significant leap forward in cloud computing technology. This development is part of Oracle’s broader strategy to enhance its AI and machine learning capabilities, providing businesses and academic institutions with tools to handle vast datasets and perform complex calculations at an unprecedented speed.

The Oracle Exascale Cloud is equipped with cutting-edge hardware and software designed to facilitate advanced AI workloads. This includes capabilities for deep learning, real-time data processing, and large-scale simulations, which are essential for research and development in fields such as genomics, climate modeling, and financial forecasting.

Key to this cluster’s functionality is its integration with Oracle’s Autonomous Database and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI). The combination allows for seamless scalability and performance optimization, addressing the needs of diverse applications from high-frequency trading to detailed scientific research. By leveraging these advanced technologies, Oracle aims to provide a robust environment for innovation and experimentation.

The launch of the Oracle Exascale Cloud follows a series of strategic partnerships and investments by Oracle in AI and cloud computing. The company has been actively expanding its cloud services to compete with other major players in the industry, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure. The zettascale cluster enhances Oracle’s competitive edge by offering superior processing power and efficiency, which is crucial for managing the massive data volumes and computational requirements of today’s advanced AI models.

This development is not only a technological milestone but also a response to the increasing demand for more powerful computing resources. As AI applications become more sophisticated, the need for scalable and high-performance computing infrastructure has grown. The Oracle Exascale Cloud addresses this need by providing a platform capable of supporting the next generation of AI research and enterprise applications.

The cluster’s architecture is built on the latest advancements in processing technology, including high-performance CPUs and GPUs, which are optimized for AI workloads. Additionally, Oracle has integrated its own custom-designed hardware to maximize performance and energy efficiency. This focus on cutting-edge technology ensures that the Oracle Exascale Cloud can deliver superior results for both commercial and scientific applications.

Oracle’s announcement comes at a time when the demand for zettascale computing capabilities is rapidly increasing. The rise of big data, coupled with advancements in machine learning and AI, has driven the need for more powerful and scalable computing solutions. By introducing the world’s first zettascale cloud computing cluster, Oracle is setting a new standard in the industry and reinforcing its position as a leader in cloud technology.

In addition to its technological advancements, Oracle is emphasizing the practical applications of its new cluster. The company has highlighted several use cases, including its potential to revolutionize industries such as healthcare, finance, and energy. For instance, in healthcare, the cluster could enable researchers to analyze large-scale genomic data more quickly, leading to faster discoveries in personalized medicine. In finance, the enhanced processing power could improve risk modeling and algorithmic trading strategies. Similarly, in energy, the cluster could support simulations for optimizing renewable energy sources and reducing carbon footprints.

The introduction of the Oracle Exascale Cloud also has implications for the broader cloud computing market. It represents a shift towards more specialized and powerful cloud solutions that cater to the specific needs of AI and data-intensive applications. As other technology providers respond to this innovation, the landscape of cloud computing is expected to evolve, with an increasing focus on performance, scalability, and specialized capabilities.

Oracle’s strategic focus on zettascale computing is part of a larger trend in the tech industry towards enhancing computational power and efficiency. The company’s investment in this area underscores its commitment to driving innovation and providing cutting-edge solutions to meet the demands of modern computing.

Crypto trading platform Bitsgap has unveiled its latest innovation, an AI Assistant designed to help traders manage their portfolios with greater efficiency. This move marks a significant advancement for the platform, positioning Bitsgap as one of the first to incorporate artificial intelligence into its crypto trading infrastructure. The AI-driven features aim to simplify the complex nature of cryptocurrency trading, empowering users with more robust tools to navigate the often-volatile market.

Bitsgap’s AI Assistant leverages the platform’s extensive experience in developing automated trading systems. The new tool integrates AI insights into portfolio management across multiple partner exchanges, including Binance, OKX, and KuCoin. By shifting the focus from individual trading bots to comprehensive portfolio oversight, the AI Assistant provides traders with a more holistic approach to managing digital assets such as Bitcoin. This shift allows for a diversified trading experience that moves beyond simple asset-to-asset transactions and into more intricate portfolio strategies.

The AI at the core of Bitsgap’s new feature scans thousands of cryptocurrency pairs across all connected exchanges. Using advanced algorithmic models and back testing, it selects the most suitable automated trading strategies based on the user’s portfolio and market conditions. These insights help users make more informed decisions, even in unpredictable market environments, offering a data-backed advantage that sets Bitsgap apart from traditional trading platforms.

What sets the AI Assistant apart from previous iterations of automated trading is its focus on portfolio-wide strategy rather than micromanaging individual bots. Traders can now set broader goals for their portfolios, and the AI Assistant takes on the task of executing these strategies, adjusting based on market fluctuations and user preferences. Among the standout features are take-profit options, which allow traders to lock in gains across several bots, ensuring that profits are realized even when market conditions shift. The system also provides enhanced portfolio management tools, offering streamlined control over assets and a clearer understanding of how different trading bots are performing in relation to one another.

Bitsgap’s representatives emphasized that the AI Assistant was developed in response to the increasing complexity of the crypto market. With thousands of cryptocurrencies in circulation and numerous trading pairs available, managing trades effectively has become a challenge for both novice and seasoned traders alike. By introducing AI-driven strategies, Bitsgap hopes to mitigate the unpredictability of the market while still allowing users the freedom to engage with a variety of trading opportunities. The platform aims to make crypto trading accessible without sacrificing the sophistication required to stay competitive in a fast-paced market.

The company’s decision to focus on AI reflects broader trends in the financial technology sector, where artificial intelligence is becoming a critical tool for improving decision-making processes. Automated trading has been a hallmark of the cryptocurrency world for several years, but the introduction of AI technology represents a new phase of innovation. It signals a move towards more intelligent, responsive trading systems that can adapt to market changes more rapidly than human traders could ever hope to achieve.

The AI Assistant’s launch comes at a time when crypto markets are increasingly influenced by data-driven decisions, and Bitsgap’s decision to incorporate this technology reflects its commitment to staying ahead of industry trends. The platform’s AI tools are designed to accommodate both seasoned traders and those new to cryptocurrency, offering customizable features that can be tailored to a user’s experience level and risk tolerance. Whether a trader is managing small sums or larger, more complex portfolios, Bitsgap’s AI Assistant offers a level of flexibility that appeals to a broad spectrum of investors.

Moreover, the new feature underscores Bitsgap’s focus on offering a seamless user experience. The platform has long been known for its user-friendly interface, and the introduction of AI technology is designed to build upon that foundation, making advanced trading techniques more accessible without overwhelming users with complex algorithms or overly technical interfaces. The AI Assistant’s intuitive design allows traders to focus on strategy while the system handles the execution, freeing users from the need to constantly monitor individual trades.

The integration of the AI Assistant also marks a broader shift in how cryptocurrency trading is evolving. As markets become more data-centric, the ability to process vast amounts of information quickly and accurately is increasingly becoming a competitive edge. Bitsgap’s AI technology offers traders an opportunity to capitalize on this shift, allowing them to make faster, more informed decisions without the need for constant manual input.

Although artificial intelligence is still an emerging technology in the realm of cryptocurrency trading, Bitsgap’s investment in AI tools shows a clear understanding of where the market is heading. The platform’s new feature is likely to attract attention from both casual traders and institutional investors, who are always on the lookout for systems that provide an edge in an increasingly crowded market.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, and the mining and metals sector is no exception. With global demand for critical minerals surging as the world transitions toward clean energy, companies are under pressure to accelerate exploration and production. To meet this challenge, they are turning to AI for its ability to revolutionize how resources are discovered. However, for AI to function effectively in this context, it requires large amounts of quality data. As a result, data itself has emerged as a highly valuable asset in the sector, positioning it as the hottest non-commodity for miners and explorers alike.

Just as children learn by looking at images and being told the names of animals, AI systems require examples to identify geological anomalies. This analogy illustrates the importance of high-quality, extensive data for AI to operate effectively in mineral exploration. AI algorithms need to be trained with significant data sets so they can recognize patterns in geological structures, thereby enabling more accurate predictions and insights. For instance, detecting the presence of valuable minerals requires AI to sift through vast amounts of geophysical data. The better and more comprehensive this data is, the more efficiently AI can flag anomalies that warrant deeper investigation.

It becomes evident that data is key as technology startups and traditional mining giants alike recognize its growing importance. KoBold Metals, for example, has pioneered the use of AI to accelerate the search for battery metals crucial to the energy transition. The company utilizes a proprietary data set to guide its exploration activities, drastically reducing the time and financial cost typically associated with identifying new mineral deposits. AI-driven models at KoBold comb through existing geological data from various sources to pinpoint the most promising areas for further exploration. Such innovations underscore that data is the lifeblood of AI, and without it, these advanced technologies would be far less effective.

Established companies in the mining and metals industry are also reaping the benefits of AI-powered data analytics. Rio Tinto, one of the world’s leading mining corporations, has implemented AI to automate the logging of core samples, a critical step in understanding ore bodies. By feeding historical data into machine learning models, the company can assess mineral resources more accurately and at a faster pace. Similarly, BHP uses AI to integrate core sample data with geological information, enhancing its ability to optimize mining operations. These examples show that major industry players, sitting on decades of core samples and exploration data, have recognized the vast potential AI can unlock when paired with the right datasets.

As companies increasingly turn to AI, the value of geological data continues to rise. Data: The hottest non-commodity in the mining & metals sector? is demonstrated by transactions such as KoBold Metals’ acquisition of exploration data from Alaska Energy Metals Corporation. This deal, involving data near KoBold’s Skolai Project, highlights the premium placed on data as a critical asset in the sector. By acquiring access to rich geological datasets, KoBold can further enhance its AI-driven exploration processes, giving it a competitive edge in the hunt for minerals essential to electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.

Moreover, the growing recognition of data’s value has fostered new kinds of strategic partnerships. Traditional mining companies, with their wealth of historical data, are increasingly collaborating with technology-driven startups that bring expertise in data analysis and AI. These partnerships blend the strengths of both worlds—traditional expertise and cutting-edge technology. For instance, Ivanhoe Mines, through its subsidiary Computational Geosciences Inc., has used AI to process data collected by its proprietary Typhoon™ technology, generating 3D geological models that pinpoint drilling targets. By sharing data and leveraging advanced analytics, companies are unlocking untapped potential within their existing resources.

Yet, this transactional activity surrounding data is raising important questions within the industry. How exactly is the value of geological data determined? Often, the answer depends on the specific context of the transaction, with data being evaluated based on its uniqueness and relevance to the buyer’s objectives. Ownership of data is another complex issue. In cases of acquisition, does the seller retain any rights to use that data in the future? When it comes to partnerships, who owns the data that results from joint exploration efforts? These questions are becoming increasingly central to negotiations in the mining and metals sector, particularly as the role of data grows.

Governments are also starting to recognize the significance of data in the mining and metals industry. In many countries, natural resources are seen as national wealth, and the data generated from exploration activities is viewed in a similar light. This has led to regulations requiring companies to report their exploration data to government agencies. For example, Australia and Canada, two of the largest mining jurisdictions, mandate that companies share their data, which is then made publicly available after a set period. These policies raise the stakes for mining companies, as government control over data could impact how companies strategize their exploration efforts.

In some cases, governments are even becoming direct participants in data collection and sharing. A notable example is Zambia, where the government has launched a country-wide airborne geophysical survey to assess its mineral potential. Ivanhoe Mines has partnered with the Zambian government to share geological data, with the aim of co-developing mining projects. Such collaborations underscore the role of governments as key enablers in this new frontier of AI-driven exploration. By working closely with governments, companies can access broader datasets and benefit from public-private partnerships that enhance exploration capabilities.

Vast repositories of geological data, core samples, and exploration results are now seen as treasure troves waiting to be unlocked. Oil and gas companies, with their extensive reserves of data, could also play a significant role in the energy transition. Their historical data, originally collected for fossil fuel exploration, can be repurposed to identify critical minerals needed for renewable energy technologies. This cross-sectoral application of AI to old datasets represents a potential game-changer for both industries.

Dubai continues to emerge as a global hotspot for thrill-seekers, offering a vast range of adventurous experiences that cater to adrenaline junkies and adventure tourists alike. The vibrant metropolis, known for its skyscrapers and opulence, is also becoming a must-visit destination for those seeking unique outdoor experiences. From high-speed desert safaris to skydiving over iconic landmarks, Dubai provides a perfect blend of luxury and adventure.

At the forefront of Dubai’s adventure tourism is skydiving at Skydive Dubai, which allows visitors to freefall over Palm Jumeirah, one of the world’s most recognizable man-made islands. The 60-second freefall gives an unparalleled aerial view of the city’s skyline, the Arabian Gulf, and the vast desert beyond, making it a top bucket-list experience for many. As skydiving popularity surges among both residents and tourists, the demand for this extreme sport in Dubai remains exceptionally high.

A short drive away from the heart of the city, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers visitors an exhilarating desert safari experience. This guided adventure takes tourists deep into the Arabian desert for dune bashing in 4×4 vehicles. The thrilling ride over towering sand dunes often ends with a traditional Bedouin-style camp where participants can engage in camel rides, falconry displays, and feast under the stars. The desert safari remains one of Dubai’s signature adventure experiences, attracting visitors who seek to explore the natural beauty of the desert while getting a taste of authentic Arabian culture.

For those who prefer adventures at sea, Dubai’s coastline provides ample opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. The warm waters of the Arabian Gulf make Dubai an ideal location for jet skiing, parasailing, and flyboarding. Flyboarding, in particular, has gained immense popularity, where individuals can hover above the water, propelled by high-powered jets. This sport combines the thrill of being airborne with the refreshing escape of Dubai’s coastal waters, appealing to both novices and experienced adventurers.

Visitors can also experience indoor skydiving at iFly Dubai, where cutting-edge technology allows guests to simulate the sensation of freefall in a safe, controlled environment. This wind tunnel attraction provides a unique opportunity for thrill-seekers to practice their skydiving skills or enjoy a gravity-defying experience without leaving the ground. Indoor skydiving appeals to individuals who may be apprehensive about heights but still crave an adrenaline-pumping activity.

For an adventure that blends nature with excitement, Hatta is a must-visit destination located in the Hajar Mountains. Hatta is known for its scenic landscapes, making it perfect for outdoor pursuits like mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking. Mountain bikers can navigate challenging trails that offer panoramic views of rugged mountains and emerald-hued lakes. Meanwhile, kayakers can explore Hatta Dam, which is surrounded by towering peaks, offering a peaceful yet adventurous escape from the bustling city.

For visitors who prefer a view from above without the thrill of freefalling, a hot air balloon ride over the Dubai desert is a serene yet awe-inspiring adventure. These early-morning flights give passengers a bird’s-eye view of the golden dunes as the sun rises, casting vibrant colors across the landscape. While the ride itself is gentle, the breathtaking beauty of the desert at dawn offers a unique adventure that contrasts with Dubai’s fast-paced urban experience.

At the other end of the excitement spectrum, adrenaline junkies can head to Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm. This sprawling waterpark is home to some of the most thrilling water slides in the world, including the near-vertical Leap of Faith, which sends riders plunging through a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays. Aquaventure’s record-breaking rides make it a top destination for water-based adventures, offering families and solo visitors a heart-pounding experience in a luxurious setting.

For those seeking a unique indoor adventure, Ski Dubai offers an unexpected thrill in the heart of the desert. As one of the largest indoor ski resorts in the world, Ski Dubai features a snow-covered wonderland where visitors can ski, snowboard, and even interact with penguins. This indoor ski experience allows guests to escape the city’s heat while enjoying a full day of winter sports without leaving the UAE. The snow park and ski slopes cater to beginners and advanced skiers alike, providing a comprehensive winter adventure in the middle of the desert.

Jebel Jais, located a few hours from Dubai, offers an experience that has made its mark as one of the region’s top adventure attractions. The Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, stretches over 2.8 kilometers and gives riders a chance to soar over deep mountain ravines at speeds of up to 150 km/h. This high-speed adventure is situated in the stunning Hajar Mountains, making it the perfect day trip for those looking to escape the city for a nature-based adrenaline rush.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has entered a strategic partnership with the Women in Energy Association (WIEA) through a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MoU), aiming to strengthen the role of women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This collaboration is designed to support capacity building in these sectors and foster greater female participation in nuclear science and other STEM-related industries.

Signed in the presence of high-profile dignitaries including Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy, the agreement reflects an ongoing global movement to promote gender equality in fields traditionally dominated by men. Princess Mishaal bint Saud AlShalan, the Chairwoman of WIEA, and Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, both played key roles in securing this alliance, which places a clear focus on creating new opportunities for women to engage in STEM, particularly in nuclear energy.

The partnership will emphasize enhancing educational opportunities, mentorship programs, and creating a more inclusive work environment across various energy sectors. These efforts align with the broader goals of international organizations, which increasingly recognize that achieving gender balance in industries such as nuclear science is critical for innovation and sustainability.

This initiative also comes at a time when energy demands are rapidly changing, and countries are turning toward cleaner energy solutions, including nuclear energy, as a way to mitigate climate change. The IAEA has been active in promoting peaceful nuclear technologies and sees this collaboration as an essential step in driving inclusive progress in this field.

As global initiatives gain momentum for diversity in STEM, both organizations are optimistic about the prospects of their collaboration. It is anticipated that the joint efforts of IAEA and WIEA will inspire more women to pursue careers in science, particularly in regions where female representation in these fields remains limited. The move aims to empower women, contributing to a stronger, more diverse workforce capable of addressing global energy challenges.

Sources from credible outlets detail how the newly formed alliance builds on years of work by WIEA to advance gender equality within the energy sector. Similarly, the IAEA has consistently promoted programs focused on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, advocating for a balanced and skilled workforce to meet future energy demands. The MoU marks a significant milestone in combining the strengths of both organizations to push for educational reforms, networking opportunities, and policy initiatives aimed at increasing the participation of women in high-tech industries.

The interconnected challenges of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss – known collectively as the triple planetary crisis – are posing an existential threat to life on Earth. Global temperatures continue to rise, air pollution contributes to millions of premature deaths annually, and ecosystems are in decline due to habitat destruction and overexploitation. However, in the face of these alarming realities, young people around the world are stepping up with innovative, community-driven solutions that could hold the key to addressing these environmental crises.

From climate strikes to hands-on ecological projects, youth-led movements are making a measurable impact on local and global scales. These initiatives, often launched with limited resources, demonstrate the power of grassroots action in achieving sustainable environmental goals. Today’s youth are not only raising awareness about the impacts of climate change but also actively working to create tangible solutions, particularly in communities most vulnerable to the adverse effects of environmental degradation.

One example of youth leadership in this field is the global Fridays for Future movement, which has mobilized millions of students to demand stronger climate action from policymakers. Founded by Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, the movement advocates for achieving net-zero emissions and limiting global warming to well below 2°C, in line with the Paris Agreement. Youth participants in this and similar movements are emphasizing the urgency of the situation, highlighting how climate inaction is disproportionately impacting their future.

Beyond advocacy, many young people are also involved in community-based initiatives that tackle pollution and biodiversity loss. In Southeast Asia, a growing number of youth-led projects focus on restoring degraded mangrove forests, which act as critical carbon sinks and support marine biodiversity. In Kenya, young environmentalists have successfully lobbied for bans on single-use plastics and are spearheading reforestation projects to counter deforestation and soil erosion, vital steps in curbing biodiversity loss.

While global institutions, such as the United Nations, have recognized the role of youth in shaping climate policies, significant gaps remain in providing the necessary funding and infrastructure for these projects. Without sufficient financial support, many promising initiatives struggle to scale up and achieve wider impact. There is growing consensus that sustained investment in youth-led initiatives is essential for their success. Addressing the triple planetary crisis requires not only large-scale governmental action but also a bottom-up approach driven by the creativity and commitment of younger generations.

For youth movements to sustain momentum, partnerships between international organizations, governments, and private investors are crucial. Supporting capacity-building efforts, providing access to green technologies, and fostering mentorship opportunities can enable young leaders to expand their efforts in combating climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.

However, a persistent challenge remains: the lack of inclusion of young voices in formal decision-making spaces. While youth activism is gaining visibility, there is still a need for stronger representation of youth in climate negotiations, environmental policymaking, and corporate sustainability strategies. Including younger generations in these processes can provide new perspectives and ensure that policies are designed with the future in mind.

The path forward for youth-led climate action must also address the diverse challenges faced by communities in different regions. In developing countries, where the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation are felt most acutely, young people are calling for climate justice that acknowledges the disproportionate burden they bear. Many of these young leaders argue that the wealthiest nations, which contribute the most to global emissions, should play a larger role in financing mitigation and adaptation efforts in vulnerable regions.

In the Caribbean, for instance, young climate advocates are working to protect their island communities from rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Through initiatives aimed at building resilient infrastructure and restoring coastal ecosystems, these youth-driven projects are helping to safeguard livelihoods while contributing to global efforts to limit biodiversity loss. By adopting nature-based solutions, such as coral reef restoration and mangrove conservation, they are creating sustainable models that can be replicated in other regions.

Middle Eastern countries are poised to become pivotal players in the global artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, thanks to their abundant energy resources. This potential was underscored by a recent statement from a World Economic Forum (WEF) official, who highlighted how the region’s energy assets could significantly boost AI advancements.

The Middle East’s vast reserves of oil and natural gas have long been a cornerstone of its economic strategy. However, their role in supporting emerging technologies is gaining increasing attention. The WEF’s insights suggest that the region’s energy surplus offers a unique advantage for AI development, especially as the technology demands substantial computing power.

The substantial energy resources in the Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, present an opportunity to power AI infrastructure that requires extensive data centers and high-performance computing capabilities. The WEF official emphasized that this energy surplus not only supports the operational needs of AI systems but also underpins investments in AI research and development.

Saudi Arabia, with its Vision 2030 initiative, is actively investing in AI and related technologies. The kingdom’s strategic investments aim to diversify its economy away from oil dependency, placing a strong emphasis on technology and innovation. Recent developments in the Saudi AI sector include partnerships with global tech giants and the establishment of research hubs focused on AI advancements.

Similarly, the UAE has launched ambitious projects to enhance its technological landscape. The country’s national AI strategy outlines plans to integrate AI into various sectors, from healthcare to transportation. Dubai’s role as a technology and innovation hub in the region is complemented by its energy resources, which support the infrastructure required for these technological advancements.

The growing synergy between the Middle East’s energy sector and AI research is evident in the region’s increasing investment in data centers and supercomputing facilities. These investments are crucial for developing and deploying AI technologies, as they provide the necessary computational power and storage capabilities.

Moreover, the WEF official pointed out that the Middle East’s focus on AI aligns with global trends where technology plays a central role in economic growth. The region’s ability to leverage its energy resources for technological progress reflects a broader strategy to enhance its global economic standing.

The rise of AI-driven industries in the Middle East also presents opportunities for job creation and economic diversification. As AI technologies advance, there is a growing need for skilled professionals in data science, machine learning, and related fields. The region’s investments in AI are likely to stimulate growth in these areas, contributing to its economic resilience and technological leadership.

In addition to these developments, the Middle East’s strategic geographic location enhances its role in the global AI ecosystem. The region’s connectivity between Europe, Asia, and Africa positions it as a crucial player in the international technology arena. The energy advantage, combined with strategic investments, enables the Middle East to act as a bridge between various global markets and technological advancements.

However, the shift towards AI and technology also presents challenges. Ensuring that the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-driven economy is critical. Educational and training programs must evolve to meet the demands of this new technological landscape.

Furthermore, while energy resources provide a significant advantage, the transition to a technology-driven economy requires careful management of environmental impacts. Balancing energy use with sustainability goals is essential to maintain the region’s environmental and economic health.