World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2023, held on May 17, focused on "Empowering the least developed countries (LDCs) through information and communication technologies."

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2023, held on May 17, focused on "Empowering the least developed countries (LDCs) through information and communication technologies." The ITU urged public and private sectors to pledge universal connectivity and digital transformation in these nations via its Partner2Connect Digital Coalition.

LDCs are a vital untapped resource, home to one-third of the world's 2.7 billion unconnected people. Achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 critically depends on addressing their needs, a priority underscored by the LDC5 Conference in Doha. Investing in these vibrant countries can drive sustainable growth for generations, making 2023 a key year for their digital progress.

Leafcutter bees are solitary, gentle pollinators that construct leaf-based egg chambers, provisioning them with nectar and pollen. A female may create up to 20 such cells, like the one seen in

Leafcutter bees are solitary, gentle pollinators that construct leaf-based egg chambers, provisioning them with nectar and pollen. A female may create up to 20 such cells, like the one seen in this footage of a bee emerging in the UK. Many species exist globally, including 63 in Florida. (Thanks to Emily Doorish: [Twitter](https://twitter.com/EDoorish), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/EmiliagoXD)).

Bees are also remarkably complex. Expert Stephen Buchmann notes they feel emotions, process long-term memories during sleep, and may even dream, raising ethical questions about their treatment. Learn more about bee intelligence: [here](https://biodiv.us/3n2sePr).

The Center for Biological Diversity, a 501c3 nonprofit, works to secure a future for all species by protecting the lands, waters, and climate they need. Discover more: [biologicaldiversity.org](https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/).

Join Jeff Corwin as he explores climate change impacts, from California's drought-stricken Sierra Nevada and the Caldor Fire's aftermath, where he meets firefighters, to Washington State. There,

Join Jeff Corwin as he explores climate change impacts, from California's drought-stricken Sierra Nevada and the Caldor Fire's aftermath, where he meets firefighters, to Washington State. There, he highlights conservation efforts for the resourceful American beaver and the endangered Pygmy rabbit.

In Washington, Corwin joins the Tulalip Beaver Project, which humanely relocates beavers from conflict areas. Beavers are vital ecosystem engineers, building dams that increase water storage, filter pollutants, promote biodiversity, and create crucial salmon habitat. Nearly hunted to extinction, these resilient animals are now recovering, with the Tulalip Tribal Community leading successful wildlife management and research efforts.

Overfishing, a critical issue often overlooked, significantly impacts our daily lives and contributes to Earth's destruction. As a student exploring the ocean, Evelyn is deeply concerned about its

Overfishing, a critical issue often overlooked, significantly impacts our daily lives and contributes to Earth's destruction. As a student exploring the ocean, Evelyn is deeply concerned about its future. Documentaries revealed the harsh truth: our oceans are dying, and so are we.

Evelyn aims to raise awareness about this detrimental problem, fostering a more empathetic society that cares for marine life.

This talk was presented at a TEDx event. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx.

Local news faced severe financial challenges from digital advertising and the pandemic, even as its role became more vital. However, a new era is emerging. Nonprofit news ventures, supported by

Local news faced severe financial challenges from digital advertising and the pandemic, even as its role became more vital. However, a new era is emerging. Nonprofit news ventures, supported by philanthropists, are filling the void, creating a sustainable future for local journalism.

Join us for a crucial conversation on this shift. We'll feature leaders from MLK50, Cityside (Berkeleyside, The Oaklandside), and the American Journalism Project, exploring how these models are revitalizing local news.

Learn more: Videos | Events | Membership | Donate | Watch/Listen. Connect: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter.

Our May event features Sara Wanous (CCL Research Coordinator) and Gil Jenkins, VP of Communications and Public Affairs for Hannon Armstrong. Hannon

Our May event features Sara Wanous (CCL Research Coordinator) and Gil Jenkins, VP of Communications and Public Affairs for Hannon Armstrong. Hannon Armstrong is a leading investor in climate change solutions, and Gil guides their communications strategy, media relations, and external partnerships, also supporting government and community affairs.

This conversation is part of our new "Big Tent Climate Talks," a monthly series spotlighting external climate leaders building coalitions for effective solutions. CCL believes diverse policies and perspectives are essential for solving climate change, and these talks foster better collaboration across the political spectrum.

Learn more: Climate Positive Podcast | Join CCL | Register for Next Month

Our May Big Tent Climate Talk will feature Sara Wanous (CCL Research Coordinator) and Gil Jenkins, VP of Communications and Public Affairs for Hannon Armstrong. Hannon Armstrong is a leading

Our May Big Tent Climate Talk will feature Sara Wanous (CCL Research Coordinator) and Gil Jenkins, VP of Communications and Public Affairs for Hannon Armstrong. Hannon Armstrong is a leading investor in climate change solutions, and Gil guides their communications strategy, government affairs, and community relations.

Big Tent Climate Talks are monthly conversations spotlighting diverse climate leaders outside CCL, fostering collaboration across the political spectrum for effective solutions. Learn more about Hannon Armstrong and register for the event.

Join us for a program with Oglala Lakota leader Jim Warne, co-presented by the Climate Reality Project Bay Area Chapter. Warne, an award-winning filmmaker, discusses Native American history and

Join us for a program with Oglala Lakota leader Jim Warne, co-presented by the Climate Reality Project Bay Area Chapter. Warne, an award-winning filmmaker, discusses Native American history and building relationships for climate progress.

Warne notes many Americans lack accurate Native American history knowledge, often receiving a narrow perspective despite over 550 tribes and 200 languages. He emphasizes historical inaccuracies contribute to an "ignorance by design," hindering understanding.

Explore more programs and support The Commonwealth Club. Subscribe for videos: YouTube, see upcoming events: Events, or become a member: Membership. Watch & Listen: Watch & Listen.

Join Jim Warne of the Oglala Lakota Nation in a program co-presented with the Climate Reality Project Bay Area Chapter. Warne, a motivational speaker and award-winning documentary creator,

Join Jim Warne of the Oglala Lakota Nation in a program co-presented with the Climate Reality Project Bay Area Chapter. Warne, a motivational speaker and award-winning documentary creator, discusses Native American history and fostering relationships for effective climate progress.

Warne highlights a critical gap in American education regarding diverse Native American histories, noting that many outside the U.S. are better informed. He stresses the importance of accurate historical teaching to overcome ignorance and intolerance.

For more information and to connect with the Commonwealth Club, visit their events page, YouTube channel, or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Consider membership or donating.