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The perils of Fed gradual normalization

By now, it's an all-too-familiar drill. After an extended period of extraordinary monetary accommodation, the US Federal Reserve has begun the long march back to normalization. It has now taken the first step toward returning its benchmark policy interest rate - the federal funds rate - to a level that imparts neither stimulus nor restraint to the US economy.

Kinky sex and plants are not a tasty mix

Scientists estimate that there are more than 400,000 species of plants on earth, at least half of which are edible for humans. Indeed, it is entirely possible that we are capable of eating 300,000 plant species. And yet we consume just a tiny fraction of that, about 200 plant species. Remarkably, a mere three crops - maize, rice, and wheat - account for more than half of the calories and proteins that we derive from plants.

Businesses can help make cities more sustainable

As we undergo the fourth industrial revolution, companies are uniquely positioned to partner with governments to address some of the world's greatest challenges. Urbanization continues to spread globally, with 70 percent of the world's population expected to live in cities by 2030. This trend brings with it the urgent need for more efficient use of energy, cleaner energy generation and effective energy storage. While the public-sector must lead, it should work closely with the private-sector to rapidly implement best policies, programs and projects that will improve urban efficiency and sustainability.

Both symptoms and causes of terrorism require strong remedies

A number of countries have fallen victim to terrorist attacks recently, pointing to the cruelty of extremists and the importance of maintaining high vigilance against terrorism worldwide.

Tough love can nurture development of green cars

The warning that China's finance minister recently made against subsidy-related fraud may sound harsh to domestic new-energy vehicle producers who have relied heavily on such government funds to kick-start a domestic boom of green cars.

Encouraging filial care for aged

Besides concerns over whether decision-makers can resolve the widening gap between the country's pension account and its ageing population, people are also worried about whether the government can provide adequate public care facilities for the elderly.

Coordinated transport resources can smooth Spring Festival rush

AMID THE record-breaking cold weather, China's annual travel rush during the Spring Festival period officially began on Sunday.

It's time to reduce family planning fines

EAST CHINA'S Shandong province is soliciting public opinions on a draft amendment to the family planning regulation, which will reduce the fines for those who give birth to more children than allowed.

Criminalizing phone use while driving can cut accidents

THE ZHUHAI municipal committee of the China Association for Promoting Democracy in Guangdong province has proposed criminalizing the use of mobile phones while driving because of the number of accidents caused by such behavior.

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