During the APEC gathering in Thailand, innovative Thai dishes featuring unconventional ingredients like insects and fermented foodstuffs were showcased, reflecting the country's ambition to become a South East Asian food tech hub. Thailand's year-round agricultural season, vibrant agrifood sector, and focus on the bio-circular green economy position it as a potential leader in future food technologies. Santi Abakaz, CEO of Tastebud Lab, highlighted Thailand's suitability for developing alternative proteins. Eran Gronich, CEO of Israeli company Flying Spark, is leveraging Thailand's expertise in using insects in cuisine to produce a protein powder from fruit fly larvae, which can be used in various food products. This aligns with Thailand's goal to be the 'kitchen of the world' and its capacity for scaling up food tech innovations.

The article discusses the challenges of renewable energy's unpredictability due to the intermittent nature of sources like the sun and wind. It highlights the use of NAS batteries as a solution for storing energy when production exceeds demand, which can then be used during power outages or when generation is low. NAS batteries, which use sodium and sulphur electrodes, are capable of delivering high-power output over extended periods. The article mentions an installation in Japan that can power 30,000 households for a day. Additionally, it covers the Mongolian government's initiative to expand renewable energy through the Upscaling Renewable Energy Sector Project, which includes the nation's first solar power generation facility with a battery storage system.

The article discusses the experiences and achievements of a Saudi Arabian woman mountaineer, who faced extreme challenges while climbing Denali and Everest. Despite being stuck in harsh conditions on Denali and not reaching the summit initially, she returned three years later to conquer it. Her determination began in childhood when she convinced her father to let her hike Kilimanjaro. Training in Dubai, she prepared for her climbs with intense dedication. The mountaineer credits her family's support for her success and is working on a book to thank them. She has become a role model in Saudi Arabia, promoting women's sports and climbing, and has a growing presence as a public speaker, addressing diverse audiences internationally about her journey and achievements.