The Science of Climate Risk - An Investment Manager's View
Fri, May 29, 2020 08:49 EDT
The dangers facing our planet from increasing CO 2 emissions and the resulting changes in our climate, are well documented and much debated, however, the origins of the discussion are often overlooked. As far back as the late 19 th century scientists predicted the amount of CO 2 in our atmosphere would double by 2100 and that this would lead to an increase in temperature of 7 o C. This calculation was made using the principles of thermodynamics. Thermodynamics was the science of the industrial revolution. The search for ways to extract the maximum amount of energy possible from fossil fuels led to the science of thermodynamics and scientists of the era were quick to apply it to the world around them. However, celebrated French mathematician, Fourier, in 1822 discovered that the Earth was much hotter than he expected it to be. His explanation was that perhaps the Earth's atmosphere acted like an insulating blanket preventing heat from escaping into space. This was the first recorded mention of what we now know as the 'Greenhouse Effect'. But it is a Nobel prize-winning physical chemist, Svante Arrhenius, who is credited with first estimating the extent of the link between a rise in Co2 emissions and a rise in global temperature. He warned that a doubling in CO2 emissions from a pre-industrial era would lead to a rise in global temperature of between 6C and 8C. These predictions are what we now call 'Global Warming'. What wasn't so well understood at the time is what, in the modern era, we are becoming increasingly familiar with; 'Climate Change'. Climate Change is the Earth's response to Global Warming. As increasing levels of Co2 in our atmosphere cause the Earth to become warmer, the response of our oceans and atmosphere dampens that rise in global temperature, which is why we are now looking at a rise in temperature of 1.5-4C rather than the 6-8C predicted 120 years ago. The challenge for today's scientists is to understand the innumerable ways in which our planet is responding to the increasing levels of CO2 in our atmosphere. The ability to identify the sources of CO2 and other Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions is one of the problems of developing accurate climate predictions for the future. What we do know is that prior to the industrial revolution the process of emitting and absorbing carbon on Earth was in balance. Now the planet's ecological and geological systems are required to absorb 20 billion more tonnes of CO2 than they emit. This is what is causing the changes to our land and sea habitats and is the reason why scientists are so focussed on us achieving 'Net Zero' by 2050. This article is an extract from a white paper written by Guy Cameron, Chief Investment Officer at leading independent fixed income investment manager, Cameron Hume Ltd. To read the full paper, click here. http://www.cameronhume.com/thought/the-science-of-climate-risk/
NZ Based 1934 Alvis, One of Only Eight Survivors, Sells with H&H Classics for £103,500 at Live Auction Online In the UK
Fri, May 29, 2020 07:48 EDT
H&H Classics sold this magnificent 1934 Alvis Speed 20 SB Vanden Plas Two-Door Saloon to a UK collector for £103,500. It is one of just eight known survivors and proof that the company's Live Auction Online platform knows no geographical boundaries! The May 27th auction achieved a sell-through rate of 70% and grossed over £700,000. A good proportion of the 473 bidders were from overseas and a third of the cars sold for above their pre-sale estimates.
Adapting Sanitisation Needs Is Key to Garden Centres Staying Open, Says Cleaner Retail
Fri, May 29, 2020 07:14 EDT
Advice from Cleaner Retail - a new service designed to assist in creating a sanitised environment for safer shopping and a clean retail experience for the consumer Garden centres have led the way in getting UK retail back on track as the coronavirus pandemic lockdown is eased. Now that garden outlets have been open for two weeks, many have successfully adapted sanitisation and social distancing operations to allow safe trading to resume. It is this adaptability and confidence to ask for a helping hand that is ensuring garden retail not only stays open but is also viewed as a best practice benchmark for the wider retail picture. One company that has been working tirelessly with its garden centre customers is Cleaner Retail, the new venture from leading plant pot supplier, Ivyline. Created in response to a need for a true one-stop-shop offering everything needed to reopen in line with government guidelines, Cleaner Retail has made it its mission to ensure that retailers have an informed and educated provision system, supported by a product offering that is continually expanded to meet the different needs identified by retailers as they move through a new normal. Scott Thomas, founder of Cleaner Retail, said: "The reopening of garden centres was a magnificent achievement for all involved, but now we have a responsibility to stay open, and ensure that our staff and customers are protected. Customer feedback suggests that in any retail setting there will always be areas that have not been fully considered, or 'pinch points' where social distancing can be more of a challenge, and sanitisation methods just aren't cutting it. As such, retailers are having to revise their processes in order to ensure total and absolute compliance with government guidelines. "The need to revise and adapt is totally understandable and demonstrates a willingness to learn. But, for some, it does throw up more questions than answers. Which is where we come in. At Cleaner Retail we are able to work directly with retailers to help identify areas of concern and create a bespoke solution that meets their needs. This might be a sanitisation solution that minimises downtime, hand sanitisation stations that improve customer flow, or even improved signage to help reinforce the social distancing measures that are so important." The first choice for UK garden retailers Since launch, Cleaner Retail has worked with a number of the leading garden centre chains, as well as with a range of independent stores across the country. From providing bespoke branded products such as hand wash and sanitisation stations, to signage and personalised clothing, each order has been individual and designed to provide solutions that work within each retail setting regardless of its size or design. Hero product Ramsol® leading the way Cleaner Retail's hero product is the Ramsol® Water-based Sanitisation Disinfectant Spray. The need to disinfect trolley and basket handles and areas of high footfall has been well documented. However, many retailers believed that appointing a member of staff armed with a hand spray bottle and disposable cloth would be enough. But with queues snaking across car parks it became apparent that this was not a time or cost-efficient way of doing things. With Ramsol® Water-based Sanitisation Disinfectant Spray it is possible to fully disinfect trollies, handles, product displays, offices, doors and everything in between within seconds thanks to its revolutionary mist spray designed to sanitise and disinfect difficult to reach and intricate areas with full surface coverage. The ingredients within this product deal rapidly and effectively with an extensive list of bacteria, viruses, fungi and moulds. The speed of application and effectiveness of Ramsol®'s Disinfectant enables retailers to increase the speed of service, improve the customer experience and minimise downtime. The product is also suitable for hard and soft areas including food areas, office spaces and around the plant area. Ramsol® Water-based Sanitisation Disinfectant Spray is available in both 22 litre and 500ml containers, priced at £229 + VAT and £89.98 + VAT for 12 aerosol cans. The product is also supported with same day despatch.
SIBA Urge Consumers to 'Support Small Breweries, Buy Independent Craft Beer' With New Social Media Campaign
Fri, May 29, 2020 06:23 EDT
Building on the success of their independent craft brewer seal SIBA have today launched a brand new consumer-focussed campaign that asks people to support the future of small breweries by opting for independent craft beer. It's the first consumer-focussed advertising campaign undertaken by the trade association, and comes as online beer sales and local delivery services from breweries and pubs continue to increase in popularity. James Calder, SIBA Chief Executive says the campaign will drive customers towards the Brew2You beer buying app and website, which was launched in partnership with CAMRA earlier this month, "We are putting our money where our mouth is and encouraging thousands of beer lovers across the UK to engage with the Brew2You app and ultimately to support small breweries at this difficult time by buying independent craft beer. As well as a full advertising campaign we will be encouraging breweries themselves to get involved on social media too." Breweries, publicans and representatives from across the beer and brewing industry are being encouraged to use the hashtag #Here4IndieBeer and will even be able to tag their Instagram and Facebook stories with digital stickers, including SIBA's Independent Craft Brewer seal, simply by searching 'SIBA' or 'Here4IndieBeer'. "We're making a a range of social media content and graphics available to independent breweries to help spread the word about the importance of independence, but we also want consumers to be able to tag their posts which feature independent craft beer, which is why we developed the social stickers and a Facebook profile photo frame which they can use." The campaign is set to launch today and will run for an initial period of three months in an effort to further boost beer sales for independent breweries who have been left high and dry by lockdown. Earlier research from SIBA showed that despite impressive growth in online beer sales (on average 55% across independent breweries) beer sales are still down a massive 82% overall. More info via www.siba.co.uk/IndependentCraftBeer
Unite Says Return to London Bus Front Door Entry Must Be Subject To Strict Safety Checks
Fri, May 29, 2020 06:16 EDT
Unite, the union which represents over 20,000 London bus workers, has given its qualified support to the announcement by Transport for London (TfL) that from tomorrow (Saturday 30 May) there will be a phased return to front door entry on London buses. Only buses that have been fitted with new screens, developed in conjunction with experts at University College London (UCL) and that completely seal the driver's cab, will return to front door entry and should be on the roads of the capital. In a further effort to build worker and passenger confidence, Unite shop stewards and safety reps will inspect and clear each bus before front door loading is re-introduced. In addition to the phased return of front door loading, TfL is also introducing reduced capacity on buses to help ensure social distancing. Double deckers will be allowed to carry 20 passengers while single deckers will carry between six and 10 customers. There will be some allowance made for families and household groups travelling together. Crucially, the seating exclusion zone around the driver will remain in place. The decision to close the front doors on London buses was taken following intensive lobbying from Unite and was seen as a vital way to protect London bus drivers from being exposed to Covid-19 while a strategy for the complete sealing of cabs was developed. Since the pandemic began at least 33 London bus workers have died of the disease. Unite officer for London buses, John Murphy said: "The safety of London bus drivers and workers is absolutely critical. Bus workers have tragically lost their lives during this pandemic and our determination is to make sure that no other family endures this heartache. "Unite has been working closely with experts at UCL, TfL and London bus operators to ensure that the return to front door loading does not adversely affect driver safety. "We want to make it clear to the workforce and the travelling public that the return to front door loading will be gradually phased in with no vehicle opening its front door until it has been thoroughly checked by a Unite representative. "The reduction in the maximum capacity on buses is an important safety measure that Unite has been calling for because it protects passengers by helping to ensure they can socially distance. "Unite will continue to lobby and work with employers and TfL to ensure that all bus workers are full protected at work, and that passengers and the wider public are cared for." Notes: During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.
HMRC Enquiries Re-Start As Government Looks To Replenishing Its Coffers
Fri, May 29, 2020 05:44 EDT
HMRC is restarting its enquiries into taxpayers' affairs as a matter of urgency say leading tax and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg. Fiona Fernie a tax dispute resolution partner at the firm said: "The recent pause in HMRC's routine enquiry work is over and they are starting to contact both taxpayers and their agents again. A representative of HMRC to whom we spoke on Wednesday confirmed that the temporary pause in enquiries was being lifted this week." "This means that tax inspectors will be looking at both personal and business tax affairs with renewed vigour; they will be looking to see whether those who were not supposed to be working during furlough were and investigating things like internet trading while the lockdown has been in place." She added: "HMRC provided taxpayers with a brief respite from investigations given the potential problems with accessing information caused by the lockdown, but that now appears to be over. The assistance Government has provided to businesses and individual taxpayers in recent months have been costly and they will want to ensure that borrowing requirements are not exacerbated by taxpayers who are not paying the correct amount of tax. There is no doubt that HMRC will be under pressure from Government to look at anyone who they think is defrauding the system as a matter of urgency." She added: "In addition to the resumption of straightforward aspect enquiries and compliance reviews, we understand that HMRC have been given the go-ahead to start new Code of Practice 8 (COP8) investigations - i.e. those that involve significant amounts of tax or complex technical arguments. By contrast, however, new Code of Practice 9 (COP9) investigations (i.e. those where there is a suspicion of serious tax fraud) will not start yet. COP9 enquiries commenced before the pandemic struck were never paused in the same way that other enquiries were, although HMRC has been very reasonable about providing additional time to submit reports in view of the difficulties posed by the lockdown. Taxpayers previously under enquiry and who took advantage of HMRC's offer to pause, should now prepare to resume their dialogue".
New COVID-19 Data Shows Lowest Paid and Single Mothers Hardest Hit by Loss of Earnings
Fri, May 29, 2020 05:38 EDT
New data released today by the Institute for Social and Economic Research at the University of Essex from Understanding Society: the UK Household Longitudinal Study shows that earnings have fallen for households across the UK, but particularly for the lowest earners, and with severe losses for single parents. In the highest income bracket, average earnings in February stood at £832 a week, and fell by £46 a week. In the lowest income bracket, they fell £43 a week, but from an average of £297. On average, single parents' earnings fell by more than double the amount experienced by households with children and more than one adult1. The new figures cover respondents aged between 20 and 65 taking part in a regular Understanding Society survey of the UK population's experiences of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Covid-19 survey interviewed 17,450 respondents who are part of the established longitudinal study, which is representative of the UK population as a whole. The survey asked people about their circumstances in the last week of April, and what their circumstances had been in January and February. The data show that nearly 18% of the lowest earners were behind on their household bills, compared to just 2% of those in the highest income bracket. The lowest earners were also over five times more likely to report that they had been hungry but not eaten at some time in the last week2. The survey also explores what people are doing to mitigate the economic effects of the pandemic. Of those who reported a fall in earnings: more than two thirds (68%) said they had reduced their spending more than a quarter (26%) have used savings significant numbers have taken a mortgage holiday (10%), borrowed from friends or family (10%) or applied for Universal Credit (7%). This first look at the data was carried out by the team at Understanding Society . Thomas Crossley, Associate Director for Scientific Content at Understanding Society says, " These new data show us that the economic shocks caused by the pandemic have affected people unevenly across the UK. The interviews will be repeated throughout the coming year with the same people to see how their experiences change, with new data publicly released after each wave to allow government and researchers to understand the pandemic's long-term effects on people's lives. "We know from this first look at the data that twice as many people expect their financial situation to get worse as those who expect it to get better. This rises to three times as many in the lowest income bracket, and among single parents.3 So it is crucial to continue to track developments." Professor Michaela Benzeval, the Director of Understanding Society, added, "Thanks to the ESRC's long-term investment in Understanding Society, we have rich background information on these respondents from past annual waves of the Study. It will also be possible to track the long run impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic with their future regular annual interviews." Notes: The authors of the report Thomas Crossley, Hamish Low and Paul Fisher are available to discuss the report. Further background 1. Average weekly household earnings for individuals who are a single adult with children fell £73 from £326 in February to £253 in April, compared to a drop of £36 (from £511 to £475) for individuals living in a household with more than one adult and children. For individuals with positive household earnings in February, single parents saw an average drop of £119 (from £427 to £308), compared to £43 (£537 to £494) for individuals in a household with more than one adult and children. 31% of the lowest earners said their earnings had fallen by a fifth (20%) or more, compared to 21% of the highest earners. 35% of single parents said their earnings had fallen by a fifth (20%) or more, compared to 21% of households with children and more than one adult. Average household earnings fell by 8%. 2. 7.7% of those in the lowest income quintile reported that they or someone in their household had been hungry in the last week but did not eat, compared to 1.5% of the highest income quintile. 3. Overall, 20% of people expected to be worse off in the next month, compared to 9% who expected to be better off. (71% of people expected to be in the same financial situation.) In the lowest income quintile, 24% expected to be worse off next month, compared to 8% who expected to be better off. Among single parents, 26% expected to be worse off next month, compared to 7% who expected to be better off. 4. Other headline figures from the first month of the Understanding Society Covid-19 survey include:
5 Free Events with World-Renowned Michelin Star Chefs
Fri, May 29, 2020 05:16 EDT
Satopia Travel is hosting a series of global conversations with world-renowned Michelin Star chefs, supported by Zoom. The events, designed to inspire, will be delivered at no charge to participants. The series will commence with conversations with some of the world's leading chefs; Massimo Bottura, Carlo Cracco, Marco Pierre White, Raymond Blanc and Francis Mallmann. The conversations have been enabled and supported by Zoom. Travel represents freedom for many people around the world; our ability to explore new destinations, connect with our friends and family and express our inherent desire to seek out the unknown, allows us to see the world from a different perspective and to feel connected to one another. So when we were faced with the realisation that, for the time being, we are confined to our current locations, and for some time, our homes, there is an overwhelming sense of being disconnected from these experiences that are an important part of our lives - connecting with others. The ability to connect with and learn from others is one of the fundamental aspects of Satopia experiences. In particular, with people who have followed their dreams and created extraordinary experiences in the world. Under usual circumstances, Satopia Travel organises exclusive Hosted Experiences for intimate groups, who are joined by world-class hosts. The Satopia Chef's Table series of Hosted Experiences invites people to travel with the world's most inspirational chefs. You can learn to cook with fire with Francis Mallmann on his island in Patagonia, discover the Scottish Highlands with Marco Pierre White or Raymond Blanc, and explore Italy with Carlo Cracco or Massimo Bottura. These remarkable hosts open up their lives for guests to see the world from their perspective, each experience is as much about the experiences and minds of the hosts as it is about their culinary creations. As the short term future of the travel industry is relatively unknown, there is much uncertainty around when we'll be about to travel freely again, and if so - how far can we, and are we willing to go? What does this mean for our desire to learn, connect and do we still dare to dream? "We want to remind people, that while we might feel a bit lost at times, amongst all of the uncertainty in the world right now, travel for many of us is about embracing the unknown and that life itself is inherently uncertain. What makes us stronger, and enables us to truly experience the feeling of being alive, is our ability to dream." - Emma Ponsonby, CEO of Satopia Travel Dare to Dream is a series of virtual experiences with some of the most remarkable people in the world of cooking, who all followed their dreams in the face of adversity and challenge. Join the conversation to learn from their knowledge and experience as we navigate the current challenges, how we can think globally as one humanity, and act locally to support our immediate communities. "One thing is clear" says Emma Ponsonby, CEO of Satopia Travel: "The desire to see the world is stronger than ever and we will appreciate our planet and all those who inhabit it with a heightened sense of consideration and kindness in the future." The five conversations will be held on Zoom, and will be moderated by different people from academia, hospitality and the media. The conversation will touch on the inspiring stories of courage and commitment to overcome challenges caused by the physical/social distancing measures and the impact of self-isolation. These virtual events are an opportunity for an engaged audience to come together, learn and connect through shared experiences online. The virtual events will be on the Zoom platform between the 3rd and 12th June Register here for the Dare to Dream Virtual Event with Massimo Bottura on Wednesday 3 June at 4pm BST Register here for the Dare to Dream Virtual Event with Carlo Cracco on Friday 5 June at 4pm BST Register here the Dare to Dream Virtual Event with Marco Pierre White on Monday 8 June at 4pm BST Register here the Dare to Dream Virtual Event with Raymond Blanc on Wednesday 10 June at 4pm BST Register here the Dare to Dream Virtual Event with Francis Mallman on Friday 12 June at 4pm BST
VSF2020 Goes Virtual Due To the Ongoing Coronavirus Pandemic
Fri, May 29, 2020 05:07 EDT
VinylPlus Sustainability Forum 2020 #CIRCULARVINYL goes 'virtual' on October 15th Due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic and concerns about health and safety, VinylPlus® has decided to host the VinylPlus Sustainability Forum 2020 online. This single day 'virtual' event will be held on October 15th, 2020. Featuring expert speakers, quality speeches, interactive debates and live polling sessions, #VSF2020 will explore the theme #CIRCULARVINYL with participants now able to attend from anywhere in the world. Organised by VinylPlus®, the Voluntary Commitment to sustainable development of the European PVC industry, this year's Forum marks two decades of leading on PVC sustainable development, with a focus on the key sustainability challenges and future transformation for the vinyl industry, both in the European and global contexts. The main topics to be examined during the online event will include the achievements of VinylPlus over the last 19 years and plans for building the new programme that will drive the PVC industry towards 2030 and beyond. The event will conclude with the VinylPlus® Product Label Ceremony. Brigitte Dero, Managing Director, VinylPlus, says: "While we are saddened not to be able to meet VinylPlus partners and their stakeholders in person, we are excited about presenting our stimulating programme in a virtual format and look forward to e-uniting the industry in another successful VinylPlus Sustainability Forum." Online registration for #VSF2020 Goes Virtual will open soon. Brigitte Dero adds: "2020 represents a significant milestone in what we have achieved to date and the PVC industry remains on track to successfully meet VinylPlus' ambitious targets by the end of the year. Yet our hard work continues amid a dynamic European policy landscape that makes our efforts even more relevant." VinylPlus® is the Voluntary Commitment of the European PVC industry. The programme establishes a long-term framework for the sustainable development of the PVC industry by tackling a number of critical challenges in the EU-27, UK, Norway and Switzerland.
Black and Asian Groups Are At Higher Risk of COVID-19 Infection
Fri, May 29, 2020 03:30 EDT
Black and south Asian ethnic groups in England appear to be at higher risk of COVID-19, as well as hospitalisation with the disease. New UK Biobank research, led by the University of Glasgow and published today in BMC Medicine , has found that black and south Asian ethnic groups have a higher risk of testing positive with SARS-CoV-2, the virus which causes COVID-19. These groups were also at a higher risk of testing positive while attending hospital, suggesting they were also at greater risk of severe disease from the virus. These risks remained largely unchanged even when accounting for pre-existing health conditions, health-related behaviours (such as smoking) and the likelihood of working for the health service. However, socioeconomic differences seemed to partly but not wholly explain ethnic differences in COVID-19. Using UK Biobank data, which has now been updated to include COVID-19 information, the researchers found that black people in England were at highest risk of having laboratory confirmed infection, more than three times more likely than white people. South Asian groups also had a higher risk of testing positive, with Pakistani groups having the highest risk among them. Age, male sex and pre-existing medical conditions have already been established as predictors of adverse COVID-19 outcomes, however the role of social factors and ethnicity is less well understood so far. Based on these new findings, researchers now suggest that more work urgently needs done to better understand and address these elevated risks. Dr Vittal Katikireddi, senior author of the study from the MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, said: "It is becoming increasingly clear that some minority ethnic groups have a higher risk of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, which is only partly accounted for by differences in socio-economic conditions and underlying health conditions. "Our findings suggest that black and south Asian people experience higher risks of needing to attend hospital for COVID-19. We must now urgently try and understand what is causing these differences in risk, so that we can address them and improve outcomes for patients." Socioeconomic deprivation and having no qualifications were also consistently associated with a higher risk of confirmed infection. The UK Biobank study has linked data between its study participants and SARS-CoV-2 test results held by Public Health England. Among 392,116 Biobank participants in England, 2,658 had been tested for SARS-CoV-2 and 948 tested positive (726 in hospital) between 16 March and 3 May 2020. Since detailed health information was collected on UK Biobank participants before the pandemic, this allowed the researchers to account for differences (such as smoking and obesity) between ethnic and socioeconomic groups much better than many previous studies. The study, 'Ethnic and socioeconomic differences in SARS-CoV-2 infection' is published in BMC Medicine. The work uses UK Biobank data and was funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC) and the Scottish Government Chief Scientist Office. The full study can be found here: https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-020-01640-8
Family Scholar House Congratulates Dr. Aleshia Thompson, M.D from CNA to MD
Fri, May 29, 2020 01:46 EDT
Family Scholar House Congratulates Dr. Aleshia Thompson, M.D. from CNA to MD - The Stories that Define Us
BC's Tourism Sectors to Benefit from $400,000 in Funding from Destination BC
Fri, May 29, 2020 01:35 EDT
Provincial tourism sector associations support an abundance of activities in BC such as mountain biking, ocean boating, camping, and RVing. To help their network of businesses and communities across the province, tourism sector associations throughout British Columbia will benefit from $400,000 provided through Destination BC. Destination BC currently works with 15 sector associations across the province through the Co-operative Marketing Partnerships Program (full list below), such as the BC Farmers Market and BC Craft Brewers Guild. Each one supports BC's tourism industry, working collaboratively with members and partners who share the same passion for enhancing tourism experiences through marketing initiatives. During this difficult time, the role of BC's sector associations has increased. These funds will allow sector associations to continue to support their members, provide direction on the implementation of health and safety measures, and develop sector-specific marketing plans in partnership with Destination BC. "Tourism sector associations play a key role in supporting people working in the tourism industry and demand for their services has increased significantly during COVID-19," says Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. "We want sector associations to be able to continue contributing to the long-term well-being of the tourism industry." Sector associations have had to pivot quickly during COVID-19. This funding will support operating and administrative costs, and ultimately help ensure businesses and communities can continue to showcase and grow experiences across our province. "Whether it's fishing or golfing, mountain biking or wine tasting, we want to help BC's tourism businesses get back on their feet as quickly as possible," said Marsha Walden, President and CEO at Destination BC. "These one-time grants will help sector associations support their members on the road to recovery." Destination BC currently provides over $2.0 million in funding for these 15 sectors through our Co-op Marketing Partnership Program . When COVID-19 first began to impact BC's tourism industry in March, Destination BC quickly modified this program to ensure flexibility through the extension of existing funding contracts. Destination BC will continue to support BC's tourism industry by providing access to resources and tools, training programs, program modifications, and insights for small- and medium-sized enterprises, throughout the transition from COVID-19. Quick Facts: Sector Lead Organization(s) Backcountry Lodges Backcountry Lodges of BC BC Ale Trail BC Craft Brewers Guild BC Bird Trails Tourism Richmond BC Farmers Market BC Farmers Market Association Camping & RV BC Lodging & Campground Association Fishing BC BC Freshwater Resort Outfitters Association , Sport Fishing Institute for Saltwater Fishing, Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC Gardens Gardens BC Golf Allied Golf Association Guest Ranches BC Guest Ranch Association Guide Outfitters Guide Outfitters Association of BC Mountain Bike Western Canada Mountain Bike Tourism Association Ocean Boating British Columbia Ocean Boating Tourism Association Ski (Alpine, Heli-Cat, Nordic) Canada's West Ski Areas Association Snowmobile BC Snowmobile Association Wine BC Wine Institute Tourism by the Numbers British Columbia's tourism industry generated revenue of $20.5 billion in 2018*, an increase of 4.9% over 2017, and a 53.3% increase from 2008. In 2018, British Columbia's tourism industry employed 161,500 people, a 4.3% increase from 2017. This means that tourism provided a job for roughly 1 out of every 16 people employed in the province. There were 19,329 tourism-related businesses in BC, in 2018, employing over 161,500 people and paying $6 billion in wages and salaries. The tourism industry generated $6.9 billion in export revenue in 2018, growing 8.2% from 2017. GDP for the provincial economy as a whole grew 2.7% over 2017. The tourism industry contributed $8.3 billion of value added or GDP (in 2012 constant dollars) to the BC economy. This represented 3.0% growth over 2017 and 42.1% growth since 2008. In 2019, the majority of BC's visitation was domestic: 74% of all visitors to BC were Canadians. These domestic visitors contributed 49% of tourism revenues in our province. British Columbians can support BC's visitor economy by spending some of the $6.7 billion they annually spend abroad by exploring their own province. More provincial statistics on tourism industry performance can be found here. *Latest information available from BC Stats
Visitor Centres Across the Province to Benefit from $130,000 in Funding from Destination BC
Fri, May 29, 2020 01:30 EDT
As tourism businesses re-open their doors and encourage BC residents to travel again, the health and safety of all British Columbians remains paramount. To support this, Visitor Centres throughout the province will benefit from $130,000 (up to $1,000 per Visitor Centre), provided through Destination BC, to ensure physical distancing and heightened sanitation measures within their facilities, as they help British Columbians to #ExploreBCLocal now, and explore their own province, when it is safe to do so. There are 130 community-owned Visitor Centres throughout British Columbia that make up the Visitor Services Network Program. Last year, community Visitor Centres served over 2.9 million visitors at their physical locations and around their communities.
Gatwick Faces Huge Economic Hole As Thousands of Aviation Jobs Hang By a Thread
Thu, May 28, 2020 19:01 EDT
New research commissioned by Unite the union has revealed the huge reliance that Crawley and the surrounding area has on the aviation sector. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic Gatwick airport was generating £2.7 billion per annum for the region's economy Fifty per cent of the total workforce in the area surrounding Gatwick airport is connected to the aviation sector, with 24,900 workers employed directly at the airport and a total employment at the airport of 33,200. Unite is warning that without urgent action by central government to stabilise the aviation sector, jobs dependent on Gatwick airport, including crew, ground staff, engineers and associated retail, transport and other roles, will be swept away. Unite has produced a blueprint of how the government should intervene across the entire aviation sector including airlines and airports to protect the jobs and conditions of workers. Such loans would come with strict strings attached regarding executive pay, corporate governance and requiring strict environmental standards to be adopted to radically improve the industry's carbon footprint. Unite regional officer Jamie Major said "Airports are hives of economic activity. Gatwick airport pumps £2.7 billion into the local economy, supporting the jobs and livelihoods of thousands, from air crew to taxi drivers to shop staff. "If these jobs go then a huge economic hole will open up right across the South East and it could take decades to recover. "Overnight, airports were effectively shutdown by the government to protect the public's health but we are now pleading with ministers to protect our area's long-term economic security. "We are not asking for a giveaway but for loans that will be repaid when the sector is back on its feet, and we have support for this from across the political spectrum. "But the clock is ticking. It is more than two months since the chancellor promised that a support package would be forthcoming for aviation but he has yet to deliver. The communities that rely on Gatwick for jobs and their prosperity cannot wait much longer." Unite is urging everyone in the local community to contact their local MP to lobby the government and explain how Gatwick airport and the entire aviation sector needs specific financial support. Notes: During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.
Future of London City Airport Crucial To Areas Economic Welfare
Thu, May 28, 2020 19:01 EDT
New research commissioned by Unite the union has revealed that securing the future of London City airport is crucial to the economic wellbeing of the local economy. London City airport is currently worth £760 million to the local economy. London City airport is one of the largest private sector employers in the London borough of Newham employing 2,200 people in 55 companies. Nearly two thirds (65 per cent) of employees live in the local area and 42 per cent of workers actually live in Newham. Unite is warning that without urgent action by central government to stabilise the aviation sector, jobs dependent on London City airport, including crew, ground staff, engineers and associated retail, transport and other roles, will be swept away. Unite has produced a blueprint of how the government should intervene across the entire aviation sector including airlines and airports to protect the jobs and conditions of workers. Such loans would come with strict strings attached regarding executive pay, corporate governance and requiring strict environmental standards to be adopted to radically improve the industry's carbon footprint. Unite regional officer Mercedes Sanchez said "Airports are hives of economic activity. London City pumps £760 million into the local economy, supporting the jobs and livelihoods of scores of workers, from air crew to taxi drivers to shop staff. "If these jobs go then a huge economic hole will open up in East London and it could take decades to recover. "Overnight, airports were effectively shut down by the government to protect the public's health but we are now pleading with ministers to protect our area's long-term economic security. "We are not asking for a giveaway but for loans that will be repaid when the sector is back on its feet, and we have support for this from across the political spectrum. "But the clock is ticking. It is more than two months since the chancellor promised that a support package would be forthcoming for aviation but he has yet to deliver. The communities that rely on London City for jobs and their prosperity cannot wait much longer." Unite is calling on everyone whose work is connected to the airport or who is concerned about its future to email their MP and call for support for the airport and the UK's entire aviation sector. Unite has been campaigning for formal recognition at the airport since 2019, a move currently opposed by management. Unite currently has concerns about how some staff have been furloughed at the airport. Mercedes Sanchez added: "Unite believes that by securing formal recognition at London City, it will be able to work in conjunction with management, to secure employment and improve terms and conditions at the airport. Notes: During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.
Stansted Airport Success Vital to Region's Economy As Thousands Of Aviation Jobs Hang By A Thread
Thu, May 28, 2020 19:01 EDT
New research commissioned by Unite the union has revealed that Stansted airport is critical to the economic welfare of Eastern England. Stansted airport is the biggest single site employer in Eastern England. There are 1,765 people directly employed by the airport, with over 10,200 people working for nearly 200 companies based at the airport. Unite is warning that without urgent action by central government to stabilise the aviation sector, jobs dependent on Stansted airport, including crew, ground staff, engineers and associated retail, transport and other roles, will be swept away. Unite has produced a blueprint of how the government should intervene across the entire aviation sector including airlines and airports to protect the jobs and conditions of workers. Such loans would come with strict strings attached regarding executive pay, corporate governance and requiring strict environmental standards to be adopted to radically improve the industry's carbon footprint. Unite regional officer Mark Barter said "Airports are hives of economic activity. Stansted is the biggest single site employer in Eastern England. It supports the jobs and livelihoods of thousands, from air crew to taxi drivers to shop staff. "If these jobs go then a huge economic hole will open up right across Eastern England and it could take decades to recover. "Overnight, airports were effectively shutdown by the government to protect the public's health but we are now pleading with ministers to protect our area's long-term economic security. "We are not asking for a giveaway but for loans that will be repaid when the sector is back on its feet, and we have support for this from across the political spectrum. "But the clock is ticking. It is more than two months since the chancellor promised that a support package would be forthcoming for aviation but he has yet to deliver. The communities that rely on Stansted for jobs and their prosperity cannot wait much longer. "Given flight schedules are looking to resume in some capacity next month and with business being kept in the dark officially about having to part fund furloughed workers, Unite is expecting announcements on job losses almost imminently. Therefore it's absolutely vital that the government steps up quickly to give assurances to the aviation industry in order to avert an economic and social disaster for our region." Unite is calling on everyone whose work is connected to the airport or who is concerned about its future to email their MP and call for support for the airport and the UK's entire aviation sector. Notes: During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.
Future of Southampton Airport Crucial to Areas Economic Welfare
Thu, May 28, 2020 19:01 EDT
New research commissioned by Unite the union has revealed that securing the future of Southampton airport is crucial to the economic wellbeing of the local economy. Unite found that Southampton airport generates £161 million per annum for the local economy Approximately 200 workers are employed directly by the airport with a further 950 workers located on the airport's campus. The union is warning that without urgent action by central government to stabilise the sector, workers employed as crew, ground staff, engineers and in all the associated retail and transport jobs will be swept away. Unite has produced a blueprint of how the government should intervene across the entire aviation sector including airlines and airports to protect the jobs and conditions of workers. Such loans would come with strict strings attached regarding executive pay, corporate governance and requiring strict environmental standards to be adopted to radically improve the industry's carbon footprint. The blueprint also recognises that in order to secure their future, airports of the size of Southampton may need a different ownership model in order to flourish, with public ownership or a public private partnership being an alternative. Unite regional officer Chris Gray said "Airports are hives of economic activity. Southampton airport pumps £161 million into the local economy, supporting the jobs and livelihoods of scores of workers, from ground staff and security officers to tax drivers and shop staff. "If these jobs go then a huge economic hole will open up in the Southampton area and it could take decades to recover. "Overnight, airports were effectively shut down by the government to protect the public's health but we are now pleading with ministers to protect our area's long-term economic security. "We are not asking for a giveaway but for loans that will be repaid when the sector is back on its feet, and we have support for this from across the political spectrum. "But the clock is ticking. It is more than two months since the chancellor promised that a support package would be forthcoming for aviation but he has yet to deliver. The communities that rely on Southampton for jobs and their prosperity cannot wait much longer." Unite is calling on everyone whose work is connected to the airport or who is concerned about its future to email their MP and call for support for the airport and the UK's entire aviation sector. Notes: During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.
Heathrow's Financial Welfare Critical To National And Regional Economy As Thousands Of Aviation Jobs Hang By A Thread
Thu, May 28, 2020 19:01 EDT
New research commissioned by Unite the union has revealed the critical nature that Heathrow's financial wellbeing has on the surrounding area and both the regional and national economy. Heathrow's importance to the economy is underlined by the fact that it generates £9.7 billion to the UK's Gross Value Added income and that it supports around 190,000 jobs across the UK. In total 84,400 people are directly employed at the airport, which hosts 320 businesses making it the largest workplace in Europe. One in five of local jobs are based at the airport and 40 per cent of the workforce in the surrounding area is employed in the aviation sector. Unite is warning that without urgent action by central government to stabilise the aviation sector, jobs dependent on Heathrow airport, including crew, ground staff, engineers and associated retail, transport and other roles, will be swept away. Unite has produced a blueprint of how the government should intervene across the entire aviation sector including airlines and airports to protect the jobs and conditions of workers. Such loans would come with strict strings attached regarding executive pay, corporate governance and requiring strict environmental standards to be adopted to radically improve the industry's carbon footprint. Unite regional coordinating officer Wayne King said "Airports are hives of economic activity. The success of Heathrow is critical to the local, regional and national economies. Heathrow supports the jobs and livelihoods of thousands, from air crew to caterers to shop staff. "If these jobs go then a huge economic hole will open up right across London and the South East and it will take decades to recover. Entire families in the local communities, who work at Heathrow Airport, could be made redundant. "Overnight, airports were effectively shutdown by the government to protect the public's health but we are now pleading with ministers to protect our area's long-term economic security. "We are not asking for a giveaway but for loans that will be repaid when the sector is back on its feet, and we have support for this from across the political spectrum. "Time is running out. It is more than two months since the chancellor promised that a support package would be forthcoming for aviation but he has yet to deliver. The communities that rely on Heathrow for jobs and their prosperity cannot wait much longer. The government must act to support the thousands of Unite members and their families from potential long-term unemployment." Unite is urging everyone in the local community to contact their local MP to lobby the government and explain how Heathrow airport and the entire aviation sector needs specific financial support. Notes: During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.
East Midlands Airport Success Vital to Region's Economy As Thousands Of Aviation Jobs Hang By A Thread
Thu, May 28, 2020 19:01 EDT
New research commissioned by Unite the union has revealed that East Midlands Airport is critical to the economic welfare of the region. East Midlands Airport is the largest employment site in the region outside of the city of Leicester, with 6,730 employees employed by 90 companies. The airport contributes £239 million of Gross Value Added income to the region. The airport also functions as a cargo and logistics hub both regionally and nationally. Logistics companies including TNT, DHL, FedEX and Amazon are all located at either the Pegasus business park or the East Midlands Gateway hub. A reduction in activity at the airport is likely to affect employment at the East Midlands Gateway, further damaging economic activity in the region. The airport is very well connected to both the M1 and the rail network and is an excellent example of an integrated transport network. Unite is warning that without urgent action by central government to stabilise the aviation sector, jobs dependent on East Midlands airport, including crew, ground staff, engineers and associated retail, transport and other roles, will be swept away. Unite has produced a blueprint of how the government should intervene across the entire aviation sector including airlines and airports to protect the jobs and conditions of workers. Such loans would come with strict strings attached regarding executive pay, corporate governance and requiring strict environmental standards to be adopted to radically improve the industry's carbon footprint. Unite regional secretary Paresh Patel said "Airports are hives of economic activity. The airport is critical to the economic welfare of the entire East Midlands. It supports the jobs and livelihoods of thousands, from air crew to taxi drivers to shop staff. "If these jobs go then a huge economic hole will open up right across the East Midlands and it could take decades to recover. "Overnight, airports were effectively shutdown by the government to protect the public's health but we are now pleading with ministers to protect our area's long-term economic security. "East Midlands Airport is a hub for air cargo regionally and nationally and any reduction of activity at the airport is set to have a severe effect on the companies operating at East Midlands Gateway creating further economic misery for workers in the region. "We are not asking for a giveaway but for loans that will be repaid when the sector is back on its feet, and we have support for this from across the political spectrum. "But the clock is ticking. It is more than two months since the chancellor promised that a support package would be forthcoming for aviation but he has yet to deliver. The communities that rely on the East Midlands Airport for jobs and their prosperity cannot wait much longer." Unite is calling on everyone whose work is connected to the airport or who is concerned about its future to email their MP and call for support for the airport and the UK's entire aviation sector. Notes: During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.
Time Running Out to Save Airports at Heart of Regional Economies, Warns Unite
Thu, May 28, 2020 19:01 EDT
More than two months on from the promised but yet to emerge government support for the UK's beleaguered aviation industry, the UK's leading aviation union is warning that without urgent action regional economies will take a big hit destroying the prime minster's pledge to `level up' the economy. Research commissioned by Unite the union highlights the vast economic contributions airports make to regional economies and details the devastating effect that closure of an airport or severe reductions in activity would have on the local area. An estimated 1.2 million UK workers rely on aviation for their employment, many of them in the airports, airlines, retail, services and transport jobs associated with air travel. The report is published 24 hours after the sector suffered yet another blow as airline easyJet announced plans to cut its workforce by 30 per cent. easyJet is a hugely important player in terms of regional airports with major bases at Gatwick and Luton. Unite's research details how Heathrow, the UK's largest airport supports a total of 190,000 jobs across the UK and generates an income of £9.7 billion for the surrounding and national economy. It also details the economic benefits of regional airports to local economies, for example Bristol airport indirectly supports 15,000 jobs in the South West and generates £1.3 billion, while Glasgow airport is another significant economic contributor, supporting 8,200 jobs and generating £590 million for the Scottish economy. Northern Ireland is particularly reliant on air travel to ensure connectivity to the UK mainland but its two airports Belfast International and Belfast City are also major employers, supporting 4,000 workers who are directly employed at the airports. Cardiff, the principal airport in Wales, directly and indirectly supports 2,600 jobs and generates £93 million for the local economy. Studies have suggested that Gatwick and the local town of Crawley could be worst affected by lack of support for the aviation sector, the airport generates £2.7 billion for the South East and directly and indirectly supports 43,000 jobs. But it is not just the larger airports that support local economies; smaller airports including Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Doncaster/Sheffield, Exeter and Southampton are all vital to their local economies. The new research Economic and social importance of the UK's regional airports further develops the key messages found in Unite's own blueprint UKaviation flying into the future which provides details of the actions needing to be taken by the government to protect airlines and airports and to preserve jobs and conditions in the sector, which has been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Unite is warning that without a specific bespoke package for the aviation industry tens of thousands of jobs could soon be lost. All airports are impacted and smaller regional airports may even be forced to close permanently Unite assistant general secretary Diana Holland said: "Airports are hubs for massive economic activity for our towns and cities, supporting jobs from cabin crew and ground handling to engineers and cleaners. "But they are facing huge challenges at the moment and need urgent assistance to secure a future where they can continue to provide important routes and support millions of direct and indirect jobs. "The prime minister himself made clear yesterday that he is committed to levelling up the economy, to spread the economic benefits more fairly. That really must mean helping our airports through these tough times as, possibly more than any other industry, they provide jobs and incomes in every corner of the country. "To lose them or see them diminish as employers will open up huge holes in local economies the length and breadth of the country. "It is crucial that regional airports are supported by the government to ensure that regional connectivity and local economies are not irrevocably damaged with mass job losses, especially in those parts of the country where they are a major employer or the heart of the economy. "Regional connectivity is a vital lifeline that needs to be preserved and enhanced through support for specific routes through public service obligation funding." "Our airports are central to our infrastructure and vital for business, travel and even the NHS. They must be preserved for the nation's benefit." Unite is urging everyone in the local community surrounding an airport to contact their local MP to lobby the government and explain how regional airports and the entire aviation sector needs specific financial support . Notes: The financial figures quoted in the report have been calculated as Gross Value Added (GVA). During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.
