Solar-powered "mototaxis" revolutionize transportation in Piura, Peru

Solar-powered “mototaxis” revolutionize transportation in Piura, Peru

Albert Einstein Díaz Vicente, a 44-year-old technician, is revolutionizing transportation in the Peruvian city of Piura with solar-powered "mototaxis": his next goal is to travel the Piura-Sullana route to demonstrate the effectiveness and sustainability of his vehicles innovative

©Walac Noticias

Albert Einstein Díaz Vicente, a visionary 44-year-old technician, is transforming transportation in Piura, Peru, with a bold and revolutionary idea: “mototaxis” powered solely by solar energy. But what drives a man to challenge conventions and bet everything on a sustainable future? How does he plan to overcome technical and economic challenges to prove that his vehicles are not only feasible but also ready to change our daily commute?

From a young age, Díaz showed a natural inclination for mechanics, starting to experiment and create at the age of 16. In 2020, he conceived the ambitious project of solar-powered “mototaxis.” Since then, he has dedicated all his efforts to this innovative field, as he shared in an interview with Walac Noticias:

“My goal is to build a vehicle that operates solely on solar energy, eliminating the need for fossil fuels and thereby reducing environmental pollution. I am in the final phase of testing and intend to seek state funding to start mass production.”

How the “mototaxis” work

The mototaxis designed by Díaz Vicente are equipped with solar panels installed on the roof and an internal system composed of a battery that converts solar energy into electricity. This system allows the vehicle to operate without fossil fuels, significantly reducing environmental pollution. From his laboratory in Las Malvinas, Díaz has adapted five vehicles so far.

Despite economic and technical challenges, Díaz remains committed to his project. His next goal is to travel the Piura-Sullana route with one of his solar vehicles to demonstrate its functionality and feasibility for daily use. Adapting each vehicle comes at a cost, which is why Díaz is seeking support from authorities and the private sector. Additional funding is essential for this innovative project to expand and benefit a larger number of people.

Watch on TikTok

Source: Walac Noticias

New insurance system supports 50,000 self-employed women in IIndia

Rebecca Manzi

Posted on 17/06/2024

Financial help for self-employed Indian women who received a fixed payment of $5 during days of record temperatures

innovative insurance program aids women during extreme heat

@Reuters

A new insurance system has significantly benefited 50,000 self-employed women in India, providing financial support during periods of extreme heat. This innovative program was first implemented in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.

$5 Payments during extreme heat

Between May 18 and May 25, 2024, when temperatures exceeded 104 degrees Fahrenheit, beneficiaries received a fixed payment of $5. The program was designed by Climate Resilience for All, a non-profit organization, in collaboration with the Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) of India.

Kathy Baughman McLeod, CEO of Climate Resilience for All, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This is the first time that insurance payments are combined with a direct cash assistance program to supplement women’s incomes during dangerous heat periods.”

Some women received up to $19.80 each

The insurance was underwritten by reinsurer Swiss Re and provided locally by ICICI Lombard. This insurance model is increasingly seen by policymakers as an effective tool to help vulnerable communities quickly receive financial support following extreme weather events.

The goal is to ensure that women can continue to support themselves and their families even when harsh weather conditions make work difficult. About 92% of beneficiaries received additional compensation when the insurance was triggered, based on local conditions and the duration of the extreme heat.

Some women received up to $19.80 each, bringing total payments under the program to $341,553. While this amount may seem modest, it represents a significant income boost for these women, many of whom work in sectors vulnerable to extreme weather conditions, such as agriculture and informal labor.

A model for social protection programs

The introduction of this innovative insurance system demonstrates how social protection programs can provide real and tangible support to vulnerable communities. The combination of insurance and direct cash assistance could become a replicable model in other parts of the world where populations are exposed to extreme climate risks.

Source: Reuters