New Zealand PM Ardern floats ‘4 days a week’ as a way to help the economy after coronavirus

Published

4 years ago

May 21, 2020

A deserted shopping mall in the city centre of Stockholm is pictured on March 17, 2020, as many activities came to a halt or slowed down due to the spread of the novel coronavirus. (Photo by Fredrik SANDBERG / TT News Agency / AFP) / Sweden OUT (Photo by FREDRIK SANDBERG/TT News Agency/AFP via Getty Images)

In a Facebook live video posted earlier this week, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shared advice while discussing ways to revive domestic tourism in his country. Over the past few months, the coronavirus crisis has forced people around the world to lock in and reduce global travel demand.

“I already have many people who suggest we have four days a week. In the end, it really is between employers and employees,” Ardern said.

However, the idea has advantages because it might give domestic travelers “flexibility in terms of their travel and leave,” he added. Ardern noted that 60% of New Zealand’s tourism industry came from local residents.

“There are many things we have learned about Covid and the flexibility of people working from home, productivity that can be pushed out of it,” he continued.

The prime minister encouraged employers to consider allowing more flexible work arrangements – including long distance work and spending more time on fewer days – if possible, “because that would certainly help tourism throughout the country.”

A four-day work week has become more popular recently as employers explore whether tighter schedules can increase productivity.

The New Zealand Government itself is no stranger to the idea of alternative work schedules. Since 2018, several government agencies have been sign up to try out a program called “flexible work by default,” which directs employers to give their workers more freedom in various ways.

While it is up to each participating institution to decide what the arrangement is like, the government has outlined a number of possibilities – including allows people to adopt shorter work weeks, “like 40 hours for four days, or two days and nine nights.”

In 2018, the New Zealand company Perpetual Guardian, which helps customers manage their will and plantations, also held a two-month concept trial. The firm said it was very successful, that is want to make it permanent.

By working only four days a week, all employees report higher productivity, better work life balance and reduce stress, according to the company, which has around 240 staff.

“It’s just a theory, something I think I want to try because I want to create a better environment for my team,” founder Andrew Barnes to CNN Business at the time. “They are beyond my wildest dreams.”

Big business in other places also started to go along. Last year, Microsoft (MSFT) accepted the idea when a company team in Japan experimented with shutting down its office every Friday in August, and giving all employees extra days every week.

The results are promising: While the amount of time spent at work is cut dramatically, productivity – measured by sales per employee – rises nearly 40% over the same period a year earlier, the company said.

As a result, Microsoft announced that they would follow up with other experiments in Japan, and also asked other companies to join this initiative.

Goodwin Townsend

General internet buff. Hardcore music maven. Typical foodaholic. Friendly student.

Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

Published

4 days ago

September 16, 2024

Herb Adkins

Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

Portuguese historical films will premiere on 29 December.

Published

2 years ago

December 20, 2022

Herb Adkins

Portuguese historical films will premiere on 29 December.

Method Media Bermuda will present the documentary FABRIC: Portuguese History in Bermuda on Thursday, December 29 at the Underwater Research Institute of Bermuda.

A spokesperson said: “Method Media is proud to bring Bermuda Fabric: Portugal History to Bermuda for its 5th and 6th showing at the Bermuda Underwater Observatory. In November and December 2019, Cloth: A Portuguese Story in Bermuda had four sold-out screenings. Now that Bermuda has reopened after the pandemic, it’s time to bring the film back for at least two screenings.

“There are tickets Ptix.bm For $ 20 – sessions at 15:30 and 18:00. Both screenings will be followed by a short Q&A session.

Director and producer Milton Raboso says, “FABRIC is a definitive account of the Portuguese community in Bermuda and its 151 years of history, but it also places Bermuda, Acors and Portugal in the world history and the events that have fueled those 151 years.

“It took more than 10 years to implement FABRIC. The film was supported by the Minister of Culture, the Government of the Azores and private donors.

“Bermuda Media Method [MMB] Created in 2011 by producer Milton Raposo. MMB has created content for a wide range of clients: Bermuda’s new hospital renovation, reinsurance, travel campaigns, international sports and more. MMB pays special attention to artistic, cultural and historical content.

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Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.

CRISTANO RONALDO CAN MAKE UP A GIANT IN CARIOCA AND PORTUGUESE TECHNICIAN SAYS ‘There will be room’

Published

2 years ago

December 20, 2022

Herb Adkins

CRISTANO RONALDO CAN MAKE UP A GIANT IN CARIOCA AND PORTUGUESE TECHNICIAN SAYS 'There will be room'

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Herb Adkins

Proud web evangelist. Travel ninja. Creator. Freelance food nerd. Passionate bacon fanatic.