The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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EU to count natural gas, nuclear 1 as sustainable: European Union lawmakers voted Wednesday to include natural gas and nuclear in the bloc’s list of sustainable activities, backing a proposal from the EU’S executive arm that has been drawing fierce criticism from environment groups and will likely trigger legal challenges. The decision could tarnish the bloc’s image and question the region’s commitment to reaching climate neutrality by 2050.
DACA advocates appeal to save 2 program: Immigrant advocates headed to a federal appeals court in New Orleans on Wednesday in hopes of saving an Obamaera program that prevents the deportation of thousands of people brought into the U.S. as children. A federal judge in Texas last year declared the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program illegal — although he agreed to leave the program intact for those already benefiting from it while his order is appealed.
OPEC secretary-general dies: 3
The Secretary-general of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries has died, Nigerian authorities and the oil cartel announced Wednesday. Mohammad Barkindo, 63, died late Tuesday in Abuja, a spokesman for Nigeria’s petroleum ministry told The Associated Press. The cause was not immediately known.
Italy’s Draghi fends off
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challenge: Italian Premier Mario Draghi’s government Wednesday staved off the immediate prospect of an early election after a key ally indicated he would remain in the coalition for now.
Norwegian Cruise Line drops 5 testing: Norwegian Cruise Line is dropping a requirement that passengers test negative for COVID-19 before sailing unless it is required by local rules. The company said Wednesday it will drop the requirement Aug. 1.