The Download: Carbon Removal industry concerns and Yahoo's past actions in China

Welcome to today’s edition of The Download, where we bring you the latest tech news. In this edition, we discuss concerns surrounding the carbon removal industry and Yahoo’s controversial past actions in China.

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The Carbon Removal Industry: Are We Doing It Wrong?

The carbon removal industry is gaining traction, but experts warn that it may be heading in the wrong direction. Two former Department of Energy staffers argue that the profit-driven focus on cleaning up corporate emissions could overlook the larger goal of reversing global warming. They emphasize that carbon dioxide removal is a collective societal good, similar to waste management, with significant global implications. Read the full story here.

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Yahoo’s Controversial Actions in China

Yahoo was one of the first tech companies to share user information with the Chinese government, leading to the imprisonment of Chinese citizens. This controversy dates back to the early 2000s, when Yahoo operated a popular search engine and email service in China. The consequences of these actions still resonate today, as we uncover how Yahoo failed to protect cyber dissidents it was supposed to support. Read the full story here.

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Must-Read Stories

Here are today’s fascinating stories about technology:

The COP28 summit has agreed to transition away from fossil fuels, but some countries have concerns about the wording of the deal. (BBC)
Mysterious entrepreneur Dryden Brown is fundraising to build a crypto city, but skeptics question its necessity. (NYT $)
Blue Origin plans to launch a rocket next week after resolving engine issues. (TechCrunch)
The movement to ban TikTok is losing momentum as critics question its logic. (WP $)
Microsoft is betting on nuclear power to run its AI operations and plans to streamline nuclear regulatory approvals with AI. (WSJ $)
Twitter staff reflect on whether they truly made the world a better place. (The Verge)
US auto-safety regulators want to integrate anti-drink drinking technology into new vehicles. (The Guardian)
Anxiety content is popular online, but conversations around mental health can be unhelpful. (The Atlantic $)
Resy’s attempt at a Spotify Wrapped for restaurant reservations didn’t meet expectations. (Insider $)
Netflix will finally reveal the top-watched show after facing criticism for lack of transparency. (FT $)

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Quote of the Day

“Fossils is not the future.” – Dan Jørgensen, Danish minister, on COP28’s potential to force oil companies to change. (Financial Times)

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The Big Story: House-Flipping Algorithms

House-flipping algorithms are reshaping the real estate industry. Michael Maxson’s experience with tech company Zillow highlights the challenges that arise as these algorithms buy and sell homes. The tech-driven model’s viability is now under scrutiny, bringing into question the future of housing and potential disruptions to the industry. Read the full story here.

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We Can Still Have Nice Things

Take a break from the technological buzz and enjoy some comfort and fun:

Discover an entirely new dinosaur species found in the cliffs of Dorset.Dinosaur Fossil Discovery
Listern to your favorite song on repeat using the eternal jukebox app.Eternal Jukebox App
Explore the fascinating ways in which we perceive the world.The Perception of Reality
Catch up on the best singles of the year.Best Singles of the Year
Learn how to reduce stress while cooking during the holidays.Stress-Free Holiday Cooking Tips

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The Download

Missed our previous editions of The Download? Catch up on the latest tech topics:

Google’s new Gemini and Sundar Pichai’s AI insights. Read more.
Insights into the first CRISPR treatment and advancements in robotics. Read more.
Concerns over deepfake apps and the recall of Cruise’s driverless cars. Read more.
The AGI debate and the use of gene therapy for hearing restoration. Read more.

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Source: The Download: carbon removal concerns, and Yahoo’s China controversy

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Amazon Upgrades Alexa with Improved Language Skills and ChatGPT Technology

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Sony’s PlayStation Chief Jim Ryan to Retire in 2023

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Sony’s PlayStation Chief Jim Ryan is set to retire next year, after nearly 30 years with the company. Hiroki Totoki will take over as interim chief executive. Sony has been a dominant player in the video game industry, and the PlayStation 5 release was highly successful. The company’s main competitors are Nintendo and Microsoft, with the latter making strides to catch up. Ryan expressed difficulties in balancing work between Europe and North America as a reason for his retirement.