Canadian biofuels are set to play a significant role in the country's energy transition, bolstered by new federal and provincial regulations and innovative technologies. Enerkem's Varennes Carbon Recycling plant in Quebec, supported by major companies and government investments, aims to produce low-carbon biofuels using non-recyclable waste and green hydrogen. The new Clean Fuel Standard (CFS) is a key driver, pushing for a 13% reduction in carbon content by 2030. Covenant Energy plans to build Canada's first stand-alone renewable diesel refinery in Saskatchewan, utilizing canola as a feedstock. U.S. state-level policies under the Biden administration are also creating a favorable market for Canadian biofuels.

The article discusses the development of the 400 MW Travers solar project in Alberta, Canada, by Greengate Power. Despite the political shift towards the oil and gas industry with the United Conservative Party's rise to power, solar capacity in Alberta has increased significantly. The Travers project, which will generate approximately 800 million kWh per year, is part of a broader trend of growing utility-scale solar projects in the province. The article highlights the challenges faced by the oil and gas sector, including low oil prices and environmental concerns, which have led to job losses and economic decline. However, the solar sector is seen as a growth area, attracting investments and offering opportunities for oil and gas workers to transition to renewable energy jobs. The article also touches on the perceived lack of federal support for the renewable sector compared to the oil and gas industry.

In September 1977, the Soviet spy satellite Cosmos 954 launched, carrying enriched uranium and advanced optics technology. By January 1978, it re-entered the atmosphere over Canada, scattering radioactive debris. The Canadian and American military initiated 'Operation Morning Light' to recover the fragments. Chris Norment's group, overwintering in the Northwest Territories, discovered a fragment and were evacuated for radiation testing. The incident highlighted the reach of technology into remote wilderness and raised concerns about environmental and health impacts. The recovered particles remain stored at Whiteshell Laboratories, with one non-radioactive piece displayed in Yellowknife.

The article discusses the increasing violence against journalists, highlighting the assassination of Jamal Khashoggi and other journalists worldwide. Kathleen Carroll, chair of the Committee to Protect Journalists, emphasizes the need for accountability to prevent further empowerment of killers. The Washington Post and Reuters are praised for their efforts to keep the public informed about these issues. The article also touches on the broader implications of such violence on society and the role of technology in both aiding and challenging journalists. Additionally, it covers various organizational changes and legal actions related to press freedom.

The growing cannabis industry presents new opportunities for journalists, especially as Canada moves towards legalization. Established news media lack the resources for in-depth coverage, creating a vacuum filled by dedicated cannabis publications like WeedWeek and Word on the Tree. Journalists like Alex Halperin and Mona Zhang highlight the challenges and ethical issues in cannabis journalism, including financial struggles and the need for independent coverage. Despite operational difficulties, the sector offers compelling stories and significant professional opportunities. The Trump administration's lack of federal legalization efforts remains a point of contention.

Asbestos, Quebec, once home to the world's largest asbestos mine, is undergoing a transformation following the mine's closure in 2012 due to the carcinogenic nature of asbestos. The town, which kept its name despite the negative connotations, is now seeing new economic developments, including a microbrewery called Moulin 7, a duck processing plant by Brome Lake Ducks, and potential for magnesium extraction from mining waste by Alliance Magnesium. Additionally, there's interest in cryptocurrency mining in the region. The Canadian government will ban asbestos in the current year, decades after other countries, reflecting its past economic significance.

Seth Shapiro discusses Alpha Networks, a blockchain-enabled streaming service aiming to provide a transparent and fair platform for content creators and consumers. The service will offer various business models and a token system for precise content payment. Shapiro emphasizes the importance of data analytics and strategic partnerships, particularly with Radical Media and Korean content creators. The platform is set to launch by the end of Q1 2019, promising a significant shift in the entertainment industry.

Alex Meilenwald of The Ruins of Beverast and Markov Soroka of Tchornobog discuss their transitions from studio projects to live performances. Meilenwald, a revered figure in the metal underground, successfully transitioned to a full live band in 2013, leading to performances at major festivals. Soroka, originally from Ukraine and now in Portland, Oregon, made his live debut in 2017 and plans to tour with Swiss outfit Bölzer. Both artists share insights on the challenges and rewards of live performances, the impact on their creative processes, and their views on maintaining the focus on music rather than stage theatrics.

A small Canadian mining town, Asbestos, is striving to overcome its toxic legacy and economic challenges following the closure of its asbestos mine. The town has seen a resurgence through local entrepreneurship, such as the Moulin 7 microbrewery, and new industries like duck processing. Despite the historical health impacts of asbestos, the community is optimistic, with efforts to diversify the economy including potential ventures in magnesium extraction and cryptocurrency mining. The town's name remains a point of contention, but residents are determined to redefine their identity and future.

Marking 25 years since its original airing, 'Last Exit to Springfield' is celebrated as one of the greatest episodes of The Simpsons. The episode, rich in cultural references and comedic brilliance, revolves around Lisa needing braces and Mr. Burns's plan to strip employees of their dental benefits. It offers a satirical take on union membership, contrasting past and present labor dynamics. The episode's enduring appeal is highlighted by its memorable 'Lisa needs braces / dental plan' mantra, showcasing The Simpsons' ability to blend humor with social commentary.