Bioenergy Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Bioenergy - Term Paper Example When forests are managed sustainably, their biodiversity, vitality, productivity, and capacity to regenerate both at present and in the future is conserved. As a result, the forests maintain their capacity to perform social, economic, ecologic functions without interfering with other ecosystems negatively at the local, national and global levels. There are several challenges to sustainable use of forest-derived bioenergy sources including the land-use conflict and land availability in many areas (Oko Institut 10). When selective logging is done at a rate that is sustainable, the forest is bound to be conserved. By adopting Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) practices such as establishing buffer zones along watersheds and streams, applying modern technologies to mitigate effects of log extraction and careful planning of the forest to prevent forest encroachment by humans, the productivity of the forest will be sustained according to CBD (Oko Institut, 8). Even as forest resources are harves ted, the way they are used determines the how much sustainable the resources will last. Wood products can be recycled to reduce the rate at which forests are harvested. Furthermore, when agro-forest bi-products and residues such as leaves, husks, shells, and straw are used in producing energy, the rate at which felling of trees is done can be greatly reduced. Developing countries have a lot of forest resources compared to developed countries according to Tomaselli (V). In this respect, the capacity of developing nations to produce high amounts of bioenergy compared to developed countries. However, with respect to sustainability, the developing countries have a long way to go. This is so considering that the policies instituted by their governments with an aim of making sustainable development are never well implemented. Furthermore, the technologies that they commonly use in the production and application of the energies are less efficient. In overall, both developed and underdevelo ped countries have a huge capacity to increase their share of forest bioenergy production, the former having the need to capitalize on the technological advantage that they have. 2. Realizing the potential a. Compare and contrast developed and less developed countries with respect to the potential for increasing the share of energy supplied by forest resources. Both developed and developing countries to some extent depend on forest resources to provide energy used in industries and for domestic purposes. However, forest resources can easily get depleted when used in a manner that is unsustainable whether in developed or underdeveloped countries. Forest derived bio-energy in most places is used in the form of fuel wood or charcoal. In developed countries, using biofuels including those from forests has often been considered old fashioned, its share in the national economy grossly declining until the period succeeding the oil crisis that hit the world in the 1970s. However, production of this kind of energy has been on the steady rise following growing concerns related to climate change, and the development of new biomass technologies among other factors. Following several studies conducted on the potential of bioenergy on a global scale taking into consideration population, yield and agricultural factors, it has been realized Africa and

How To Create Assessment Opportunities Essay Example for Free

How To Create Assessment Opportunities Essay Explain how to create assessment opportunities that meet the needs of learners – ‘Assessment is the term given to checking that learning has occurred. It may happen at any stage during the learner’s progress through their qualification’, page 112, Practical Teaching, a guide to DTTLS PTTLS, Wilson. ‘Assessment can be carried out before recruitment (at interview), at commencement (diagnostic and initial assessment), during and at the end of the lesson and at the end of the module, unit or programme.’ Page 268, Practical Teaching, a guide to DTTLS PTTLS, Wilson. Arrange lessons around frameworks, so teaching the subject to learners. Teachers will have to assess learning has occurred, regardless of whatever form of learning has taken place. By being consistent, ensuring that all assessments are completed to a level standard, and irrespective of when the learners are assessed the outcomes are constant. By making sure all learners have access to assessment, and it follows the criteria of equality and inclusion By ensuring learners have had the opportunity to have all areas of the subject covered, so no part has been missed By allowing the learners understand the purpose and meaning of the assessment Making all learners know how the assessment will take place Assessment isn’t something that takes place at the end of the module or at the end of the year, it can take place at the end of the lesson by asking the learners if they have understood what was covered in the lesson.

The role of Italian export in eastern Europe market of Pasta

The role of Italian export in eastern Europe market of Pasta Introduction Main goals This report aims to be a complete and accurate analysis of the pasta market in Eastern Europe, and to show how three of the most important italian pasta exporters were able to penetrate in this market. We will also show the possibility of growth of this market and his development for years to come. Some informations about Russia and Poland I decided to analyze these two countries because, as I will explain in more detail below, historical and political reasons led the people to have similar food consumption. However, beyond other differences much more pronounced (like the geographical size or the number of inhabitants), both countries have a market characterized by the importation of pasta from Italy almost identical. Yet a country is a member of the EU, the other not. One enjoys the privileges of Europe treaties and has no duty. The other keeps the ruble and taxes and tariffs influence over the consumption of imported products. 1.2.1) Russia The collapse of the Soviet Union has brought about great changes in Russia. The economy was centrally planned and has now become a global market. The economic reforms in 1990 have privatized industry factory, except for some strategic sectors such as energy and defense. To know the real power of Russia, I ´d like to show you that this country is the largest exporter of natural gas in the whole world, the second oil exporter and the third exporter of aluminum steel. This makes Russia an economically strong country, but weak about fluctuations on the variability of commodity prices. After a long economic crisis (1998), the economy began to grow on average 7%. However, the recent global crisis influenced heavily the new middle class. The Central Bank of Russia used a third of its 600 billion U.S. dollars in international reserves to avoid the crisis and stabilize the ruble. The government has also spent $ 200 billion for a rescue plan to increase liquidity in financial sector and aid for Russian companies. In 2010 happens disastrous situation from the environmental point of view, with a severe drought and wildfire in central Russia that have reduced agricultural production, leading to a ban on wheat exports for the year, and increase in other sectors, such as manufacturing and retail trade (but the growth is really slow). 1.2.2)Poland. In 1990, Poland has begun a policy of economic liberalization and today is one of the most active transition economies. Before 2009, GDP had grown by about 5% per year, mainly due to inflows of EU funds. GDP per capita is still below the EU level, but it is among the most high in the Baltic states. Unfortunately, EU membership was blocked by the unemployment rate to 11.8% for the year 2010 and for inflation to 4.2%, above the upper limit of the target audience of the National Bank and the deficit of public sector budget went to 7.9% of GDP, for the crysis events. The countrys potential held back by lack of modern infrastructure, an inefficient commercial court, a code of hard work and too much bureaucracy. Russia Poland GDP (purchasing power parity)  [1]   $2.229 trillion (2010 est.) $2.147 trillion (2009 est.) $2.331 trillion (2008 est.) $721.7 billion (2010 est.) $698.6 billion (2009 est.) $687 billion (2008 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.8% (2010 est.) -7.9% (2009) 5.2% (2008) 3.3% (2010 est.) 1.7% (2009 est.) 5.1% (2008 est.) GDP per capita (PPP): $15,900 (2010 est.) $15,300 (2009 est.) $16,600 (2008 est.) $18,800 (2010 est.) $18,200 (2009 est.) $17,800 (2008 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 4.2% industry: 33.8% services: 62% (2010 est.) agriculture: 3.9% industry: 31.8% services: 63% (2010 est.) Labor force by occupation: agriculture: 10% industry: 31.9% services: 58.1% (2008 agriculture: 17.4% industry: 29.2% services: 53.4% (2005) Unemployment rate: 7.6% (2010 est.) 8.4% (2009) 11.8% (2010 est.) 11% (2009 est.) Population below poverty line: 13.1% (2009) 17% (2003 est.) Investment (gross fixed): 18.9% of GDP (2010 est.) 19.5% of GDP (2010 est.) Public debt: 9.5% of GDP (2010 est.) 8.3% of GDP (2009 est.) 50.5% of GDP (2010 est.) 46.4% of GDP (2009 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.7% (2010 est.) 11.7% (2009) 2.4% (2010 est.) 3.5% (2009 est.) Industr. production growth rate: 8.3% (2010 est.) 6.5% (2010 est.) Exports: $376.7 billion (2010 est.) $303.4 billion (2009 est.) $160.8 billion (2010 est.) $142.1 billion (2009 est.) Exports partners: Netherlands 10.62%, Italy 6.46%, Germany 6.24%, China 5.69%, Turkey 4.3%, Ukraine 4.01% Germany 26.06%, Italy 6.84%, France 6.78%, UK 6.38%, Czech Republic 5.85%, Netherlands 4.14% Imports: $237.3 billion (2010 est.) $191.8 billion (2009 est.) $167.4 billion (2010 est.) $146.4 billion (2009 est.) Imports partners: Germany 14.39%, China 13.98%, Ukraine 5.48%, Italy 4.84%, US 4.46% Germany 28.08%, Russia 8.65%, Italy 6.5%, Netherlands 5.59%, China 5.27% Debt external: $480.2 billion (2010 est.) $467.2 billion (2009) $252.9 billion (2010 est.) $239.6 billion (2009 est.) 1.3)Some information about the industries 1..3.1) Barilla S.p.a. Barilla S.P.A. is an international food company founded in 1877 in Parma. The company is still privately held, and remains in family ownership and control also today. Barilla_pasta_logo.svg.png Barilla Group control multiple brands. The most famous are: Mulino Bianco, Pavesi, Voiello, Alixir, Wasabrod, Misko, Filiz, Yemina and Vesta. The Group has several production plants all over the world: in Italy, Greece, France, Germany, Russia, Sweden, Turkey and United States, but the central office remains in Parma. Barilla Pasta produces various kinds of pasta and bakery products; is one of the worlds leader in pasta, with 25% of the US market and 40% of European Market. Barilla produces 4,000 tons of dried pasta annually in over 120 shapes and sizes. It is also the leading seller of bakery products in Italy. After the acquisition of the Swedish company Wasa, Barilla became the worlds major producer of flatbread. The Group has 16,000 employes, control 20 different brands and has a turnover of 4.5 billion euros. This market giant produce every year 3 ´000 ´000 tons of food products. In East Europe, the group is present in different countries: according to the website information, is present in Poland from 1999 with the brands Wasa, Barilla and Mulino Bianco. In Russia is present a bakery plant, and 880 people works there. Barilla set his presence in Moskow from 2003 and sell products like Barilla, Harry ´s and Wasa. In Sweden the society is present since 1999, with offices, production plants and a mill. 545 employees works for the group in Filipstad, and create food for brands Wasa and Barilla. 1.3.2)Pasta Zara Pasta Zara S.p.A. Italian food is specialized in the production of pasta, founded in1898 with factories in Riese Pio X (TV) and Muggia (TS). The company is the leading exporter of pasta in the world and the second in terms of production. Exports represent 95% of the market for Pasta Zara, and 13.5% of meals eaten in the world is Zara, in 2009 has sold 208,000 tons of pasta. Actually exports to 97 countries and increased sales particularly in Asian markets, America and Russia. In its continued growth, Pasta ZARA has launched an industrial development plan with the aim is to increase the production capacity from current 208,000 tons per year to about 320 thousand tons by 2015. It works about 300 people in his factory, and is one of the few italian companies that succesfully survived the recent financial crisis.logozara.png Pasta Zara has also been active for years an interesting collaboration with the Italian chefs, and is an active social life of its region by promoting a number of sporting and culinary events, as well as sponsoring several youth sports teams. 1.3.3) De Cecco It was founded in 1886 in Fara San Martino by Filippo Giovanni De Cecco. His father, Nicola De Cecco, a few years ago produced flour in a small local mill. As early Filippo De Cecco had the insight to properly dry the pasta so that they can maintain and withstand the long journeys to America. The current factory in Fara San Martino was built in the early 70s when that age was no longer able to produce the quantities required by the market. In 1950 it was rebuilt in Pescara on the industry model of the former mill town from the years 20 and almost completely destroyed during World War II. Industry Pescara De Cecco is called Mill and De Cecco pasta and is a public limited company controlled by the parent F.lli De Cecco di Filippo Fara San Martino SpA. De Cecco pasta produces water-based and durum wheat, although the laws in many countries allow the use of blends based on durum wheat and wheat flour that are called semolina. Pasta De Cecco has spread to 90 countries around the world inc luding Italy, Great Britain, Japan, United States, and France for over 100 years. It has recently started exporting in Mongolia. logo_home.png The pasta market in east Europe 2.1) What is pasta Pasta is a so popular food for many reasons: its nutritional value, taste and convenience. This is a healthy and important part of a balanced diet (such as mediaterranea). The inventor of pasta is still unknown: legends says Marco Polo imported from the east, while for others the differences between western and eastern pasta are too great, and they think that the Etruscans were the first to prepare pasta. There are two kind of pasta: fresh or dried. The dry consists of semolina, which is produced by grinding kernels of durum wheat. Sometimes other grains are also used. The semolina is mixed with water to form a dough. Usually, the fresh pasta is prepared by adding eggs too. You can enrich the mixture with other ingredients such as spinach, tomatoes and saffron to change its color. The dough is kneaded until it reaches the right consistency, and then is pushed (extruded) through a metal disk with holes. The size and shape of the holes in the disk determine what shape of pasta will be. When the pasta reaches the right length, is cut with knives. The paste is then sent through large dryers which circulate hot, moist air to slowly dry the pasta. The pasta is then packed in bags or boxes. The fresh pasta instead should be consumed within a few days of preparation, without the stage of drying. The most popular type of pasta in the world is spaghetti. 2.2) Similarity and differences between east and west market The differences between these two worlds are very marked. In west side, pasta is the most common food ever, on the other, at best, a simple seasoning. Export pasta in these countries does not mean selling a product, means to make them share as a lifestyle. Some Italian companies there are trying, even now. 2.2.1) Russia and Poland Pasta Market Historical reasons (including the three partitions of Poland in 1772, 1773 and 1775) and social behaviours urge me to consider the current pasta market of Russia and Poland as similar in many aspects, both unique, but distinct from those of Western Europe. These two markets, so similar to consumer preferences, have one big difference: Poland is a member of the European Union, and as such have access to products faster and cheaper, in the case of Russia, but the products are burdened with duties and exchange rates. The Russian and Polish food market is highly fragmented and there is not a single monopoly; the top 10 retailers only reach a market share of 10 percent (datas from 2006). In these two countries, traditional trade detail shop are common, in Russia still remain the Soviets (small independent stores), representing three quarters of total food sales. However, in both countries are becoming more modern retail chains. Hypermarkets and supermarkets are growing rapidly. Most of them have started business in Moscow and are now slowly expanding into other regions. The centerpiece of the food market and based for all foreign companies wishing to spread throughout the country is the area of Moscow and St Petersburg. The degree of success for future expansion can be examined by the successful sale of their products at the increasingly large middle class and upper-middle in these cities. The most important fair in this area is World Food Moscow, held annually in September. The fair is an internat ional fair, the bigger and largest in central and eastern Europe. Manufacturers who want to introduce their products and brands in the Russian market must participate to this event (with nearly 1,300 exhibitors and 60,000 visitors, most of them are international wholesalers and retailers of food). Prices are not set by law, but vary from region to region. This is due to differences in income and cost of living across the country. Russians spend a higher percentage of their income than consumers desserts in many other countries. In 2007 the total consumption was 1.1 million tonnes. About taxation, the prices of modern retail stores are subject to a 18% value added tax (VAT) flat rate which can make it difficult to compete. Import tariffs can vary from 5-20 percent depending on the product and the country is imported from has the status of most favored nation. In the case of Italy, the nominal tax rate is 20 per cent. Poland does not have these problems because it adheres to the Schengen Treaty and E.U. and the goods may be imported without tariffs. In general, corruption and bureaucracy are the major obstacles to doing business in Russia. However, the Russian government abolished many requirements and simplified import licensing and reduction of existing non-tariff barriers, the accession to the World Trade Organization. Food companies who want to import into Russia must apply for certification by the Russian Agency for Health and Consumer Rights, which confirms the safety and quality standards. In these countries, where for historical and social reason consumption of pasta is naturally very small, extensive marketing campaigns are needed, a lot of patience and creativity to support the business. It s very interesting to note that the lack of duties has facilitated the export of pasta in Poland. But what we can analyze from Russia? If we apply corrections to the data due to distortions and normalize the population, we get very similar fuel consumption. So is it true that the duties will not affect this business? No, for one simple reason: in Russia imported pasta is a luxury item. It is certainly not a few rubles on the price that discourages the wealthy citizens of Moscow from buying Italian products. Because the larger part of these products is sold in Moscow. and St. Petersburg, the remaining part of Russia is not a consumer of Italian products. A reduction of duties could encourage the spread of pasta between other groups of the population, while businesses might think of high gamma products for rich citizens. 2.2.2) West-Europe pasta market In the Europe of the east, the pasta is a well- known food. Its nutritional and organoleptic characteristics make it an excellent food, balanced and healthy for human consumption. In fact, the pasta is also at the base of the Mediterranean diet. Production volumes is estimated at 3.2 million tones, and continues to grow. The italian market in 2009 represented about 1.5 million tons, worth about 2.7 billion euro. Approximately 52% of national production is exported. In 2009, Italian pasta companies have increased their export volumes of around 1, 35%. Pasta is definitely one of the key areas of the Made in Italy, but competition with foreign countries, in particular the European Union is very strong. Despite phenomena of short duration (for example, sales crisis), the Italian pasta continues to be a success in international markets, where consumption is rising everywhere. Overall, they were exported around 1.7 million tonnes of Pasta, worth approximately à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬ 1.7 billion. In particular, 1 million and 145 thousand tons of pasta were exported to EU countries (4% more than last year) and 514 000 tonnes to third countries. As regards the geographical distribution of exports in the rankings of the five largest customers, Germany confirms first place with a share of 20% in quantity, followed by France (16%), the United Kingdom (15%), United States ( 7%) and Japan (5%). In ten years the production of pasta in the world has risen from around 7 million tonnes to around 12 million tonnes. This means that, with about 3.2 million tonnes of production, our country is about 26% of world production of pasta and 75% of the EU at a glance a pasta dish eaten all over the world in 4 and 3 out of 4 in Europe is made with Italian pasta. However, the Italian leadership cannot be taken for granted. New international competitors now face the global market. The gradual reduction in the number of pasta- makers (consider that in 1970 the companies were 450, now about 150) concerned as an indication of the difficulties in the sector. The Italian pasta market, right now, suffering considerable difficulty, as demonstrated by the actions of antirust Italian, which cyclically apply sanctions to the main producers. The Italian market is saturated: the prices are very low compared to the raw material, the number of producers is high and profit margins are very low. But this concern only the Italian pasta. If we add to this the cheap products imported from Spain, but even more from Asia and South America, the situation is really problematic. Many artisan pasta makers have closed, and the remaining have had to made compromises to maintain an adequate levels of prices. There is no place in the market for new innovations. Focus on new forms or in terms of recipes is very difficult because it is a subject already much exploited. Is possible to focus in increase quality level, but the return of sales compared to the price increase requested is not cheap. Sales are down and prices are strongly influenced by the fluctuation of raw material (such as the recent fire in Russia has led to a shortage of grain in the world). Thats why many companies have decided to invest abroad, in America some of the others in East Europe 2.3) General indicators Country tons of pasta produced Italy 3,161,707 Russia 858,400 Poland 150,00 Country Per capita consuption of pasta (kg) Italy 26,0 Russia 6,0 (fast grown) Poland 3,0 (quite stable) Country Average selling price (à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬) Italy 2 Russia 4 Poland 3 Market shares of Italian companies in the area of pasta in Italy 2.4) Consumers behaviour Italy West Europe East-Europe Pasta is a food for all people Is healty and cheap Thousands and thousands of differents brands Brand name and reputation create trusts Recipes are usually fresh and light, tastefull. The buyers knows lots of things about pasta, how to prepare the best recipe, a lot of experience of the product. Is made in Italy Unlimited existence of different size and shapes The package is less important than the brand Possibility of collusion between similar products to keep high prices The original Made In Italy Pasta is an expensive product When controls are are carried out strictly, the product has a good quality Only the most famous brands and names can attract a foreign customer. Expensive marketing campaigns can help selling pasta Cultural mix of italian pasta and west-Europe products can create unpleasant tastes (Pasta with Vodka sauce) Lack of basic knowledge. Especially about cooking time! Fake products are common (unfortunately) Spaghetti, Macaroni, Lasagne, Fettuccine. No more. The package must be as distinctive as brand, especially for the expensive products Fees and taxation keep high prices Quantity of pasta exported (tons) graph.emf The Italian industry in West Europe As seen above, De Cecco and Barilla are two companies leading her Italian pasta. If we add to Zara, the largest exporter of pasta, we get a great deal of products to be sold in these countries. Each of these three companies has followed a different system, with strengths and weaknesses, which we will analyze in detail. 3.1) Barilla As seen previously, export pasta in these countries is difficult because there is no culture of pasta. Barilla has begun the process of its introduction in the country with the acquisition of two companies operating in different sectors. We had to remember that Barilla was sold to U.S. multinational W. R. Grace and Company in 1970. For the company the acquisition was very helpful because it help to increase sales and became famous and powerful. But it remains a national pride in foreign hands. In 1979, Pietro Barilla with his sons repurchase it. Initially, to inject liquidity in the difficult moments of the 80 and 90, the Barilla became partner with Walter Wurth, chairman of Oerlikon Buhrle, a major Swiss company producing weapons. Its probably the first international Italian food company: it begins acquisition of several foreign companies in the same industry, such as the Greek Misko (1991), the Turkish Filiz (1994) and Swedens Wasa (1999). In 1999 opened its office in Poland, where he began to export pasta produced in Italy in local markets. The landing in Russia and not planned, but with the acquisition of Harrys Wasa gain control of these companies small offices in Moscow. We are in 2002 and the situation for a foreign investor is favorable to the resumption of the Russian economy after the financial crisis of 1998. So Barilla decided not only to invest in the country, but also to enhance the production facilities, acquiring the plant Solnechnogorsk. The process is not smooth: 20 million being spent to rebuild the plant Solnechnogorsk after a disastrous fire in 2004. Another 40 million are used, from 2004 to 2007, to improve the production of this plant that produces only for the subsidiarys Harry. Barilla pasta that matter in Russia always comes from Italy. Harrys hand and the colossus of French bread loaves, which produces many varieties suitable for each meal. To bear the internalization, the company has suffered over the years, many structural changes. The holding has also changed over the years several times its operating structure to achieve its present form. Then the system for foreign Barilla provides direct entry into the market, acquiring companies that can provide knowledge and know-how, to use as a base for future expansion of its core business abroad. While this system is characterized as very solid, almost textbook economics, however, is only possible by companies such as Barilla, that have large, very solid financial basis (also accessible through the weapon trade), confidence banks, large availability of money for long-term investment. Although the expansion in Eastern Europe has begun for the last decade, the recent imbalances of the economy are putting a strain on the coffers. barilla organigramma.jpg 3.2)Zara in West Europe Pasta Zara is an unusual case in the Italian industrial sector. While most other food companies producing for the domestic market and possibly export the surplus, since 1958 this company, with rare foresight, has started to export, so that now the export is the main source of income of the company. In Italy it is a little known brand in the main distribution channels, but through some sub-brands popular discount stores. The experience in Eastern Europe began in the 80 and 90. Through small improvements every year, Zara was the first going through uncharted territory. Zaras experience in Eastern Europe is very attractive. Pursuing a long policy of small steps, it has earned the trust of consumers and respected brands and quality. This system is fairly inexpensive, considering that need no infrastructure in place but only an exporter with a warehouse. Must be added also costs of marketing. It s true that with this system Zara has become the largest exporter of pasta in the world but to become it took years of effort, sacrificing the domestic market to focus entirely on exports. And it was really long! But the positive side is that now Zara, while its competitors are suffering and reel, squeezed by banks and crisis, has an enviable financial position, rather it is also able to expand its production facilities. A successful economic policy, therefore, provided to be able to wait many years and do not be alarmed by the lack of results. zara organigram.gif 3.3)De Cecco in west Europe De Cecco has always been the pride of Italian quality. It began to export its products only recently, but in Russia especially stood out for its products in the range Premium Segment. In particular, the company has distinguished itself for its commitment in the use of new technologies, especially the e-commerce and Web 2.0. The use of these powerful new media and online marketing campaigns, combined with the companys presence in social networks and YouTube, have fostered his knowledge outside of Italy. Is too early to comment on the results obtained by De Cecco nellexport online. The system is in fact not be operational until 2007, after a year that had put a strain on the company. It seems that the idea to focus mainly on trade web has been in practice a gamble in which few people believed. In the absence of funds and massive investment, however, seemed a logical solution. In practice it is not exported to Eastern Europe but to explore a whole new space (internet), very little used by Italian companies to sell their products. The data so far are very fragmentary. On social networks, the company has a large number of fans, as well as recipes on youtube channel. This is the first Italian company to have understood the potential of Web 2.0, but there is no practical data on the quantities sold. Despite this, I think this is an excellent system, able to demonstrate that the business is not achieved only with exaggerated amounts of money, but also with good ideas and lots of advertisin g. Future of Pasta market The pasta is a food that is going through a second youth, in recent years. Its nutritional properties make it an excellent item, but not yet adequately known outside the Mediterranean region and North America. From this point of view, the efforts of many Italian companies to showcase the product is impressive, especially in the East of Europe In a few years the consumption of pasta in those countries began to grow exponentially, a sign of the goodness of product. But if the increased consumption of pasta, it makes it necessary to increase the users understanding of the product and best practices on how to consume it. Only in this way, a product still popular but seen as a foreigner will be able to enter definitively into the hearts of people. However, the paste cannot hope to increase its market share in the intensely until remains a niche product of luxury. If this can start to attract more wealthy clients, it must then expand to all other social classes, with appropriate pricing policies and promotional purposes. It should not underestimate the different cultures from which the users come. If in some cases the result of any intersections of recipes is not pleasant, very often you get tasty combinations. The expansion into new markets becomes the only option for companies at home suffer more and more competition. Not only the internal ones (in Italy exists, in each store, tens of hundreds of shapes and products) but also from China and countries in the developing world. It is important to point out then that the real Made in Italy for wine and food products every year suffer more from clones from different countries, much cheaper but with much lower quality. Not only that, the pasta industry is still in danger from the changes in the price of wheat (see fires in Russia that in 2005 and 2010 have destroyed the stocks of that country, a formidable exporter) and in general of market imbalances: particular the recent crisis has led to a negative peak of exports, and fear for one of the key sectors of Italian economy, although it is early to reach definitive conclusions or analysis. But this I can definitely say that the pasta industry will expand only through export. Conclusions The situation of the market for products derived from corn is very precarious. On one side we have the farmers, who are fighting daily against nature to obtain a more healthy wheat, but their efforts are frustrated by the industries that underpaid their product. From other side we have to endure the same companies that increasingly stringent budgetary constraints in order to sell their products, and increasingly fierce competition. Thats why these three large Italian companies have decided to export its products to countries that are foreign to the culture of pasta. Someone called him a chance, something else a fail, but all these companies are fighting every day to sell their products. It s just business, but it is also through these channels that the real Made in Italy spreads. We have seen how difficult it is to enter a different market. is a long-term investment, and massive investments of money, time and energy are required, as well as know-how previously unknown. Until 2009 these companies have made it. With the recent crisis, the situation has deteriorated drastically, and perhaps have a good product will not be enough to save himself. Sources 1) www.istat.it 2) Comtrade 3) www.barillagroup.com 4) www.cia.gov 5) http://www.pastazara.it/ 6) http://www.dececco.it/IT/ Barilla official report 2001 -2010 http://www.eiu.com/public/ Italian Embassy in Moscow www.ambmosca.esteri.it www.confindustria.it www.worldfood-moscow.com http://www.unipi-pasta.it/dati/andam.htm http://www.pasta.it/consumo.htm Tutto il Grillo che conta (Beppe Grillo, Feltrinelli 2006) http://www.intracen.org/appli1/TradeCom/TP_IP_CI.aspx?RP=643YR=2008 16) http://www.pastaria.it/rivista-pasta/russia-un-mercato-promettente/

Aviation Essay -- essays research papers

There are several factors that enabled Wilbur and Orville Wright, two high school dropouts, to produce a successful airplane controlled by a pilot. The Wright brothers were self-educated and very experienced with several types of technologies when they began their efforts to produce an airplane. Having worked as bicycle mechanics, they understood the importance of several technologies working together to create one particular design, as well as the significance of balance. The brothers worked well together, learning from past attempts at aviation, and drawing from other’s findings, in addition to discovering many of their own. One of the most distinct differences in their attempt from other aviators was that the brothers began by first learning to fly and control the airplane in glider fo...

Broad Political Theory Questions

Picking on materialism in Feuerbach, Marx claims sensuousness and actuality as the main objects of contemplation. This implicitly implies that humanity is interested on selfish issues which result to individual pleasure. Objectivity is also viewed in regards to whether humanity can remain objective. Marx‘s position is of critical importance though the stand on whether it has changed the world remains debatable. Locke’s philosophy has played a big part in the present day events. A look at the American constitution serves as a pointer to this view.Even the unites nations charter on human rights seems to have made reference to Lockes’ work especially on property rights. Locke seems too be an advocate of a free society in which individuals get to benefit equitably. Though this has not been achieved, the society has made remarkable improvements towards attaining certain universal goals like the millennium development goals. The pursuit of objectivity as implied by Marx is thus a unifying feature of the two philosophers. Plato only interpreted the world while attempting to achieve his goal of indicating or underscoring the importance of the republic.Whereas, the pursuit if justice is of noble consideration, it remains to be seen whether, it has been achieved or whether it will ever be achieved. The effect that the Plato philosophy has had remains persistent and unbroken. The academy the philosopher opened in Athens remains a pillar of the works undertaken by the scholar. The influences of Plato are known to have played a significant role in shaping various religious developments over a long period of time. If justice is to be attained, then objectivity is a prerequisite, a fact observed by Marx. 2. Machiavelli used hypocrisy to lay siege on the Christian faith.The philosopher was always against morality apart from the support he gave to those intending to stand on its way. Christianity is based on what its faith call good morals. As Machiavelli pu ts it, morality is not an issue if it cannot be justified. Machiavelli believed that it’s the ‘end that justifies the means’. Machiavelli saw every piece of religion as an act of propaganda. Machiavelli thought that the Christian faith would collapse before the world itself came to an end. Through social relativism, Machiavelli claimed the absence of the Christian god.In this construction, it was claimed that since God never existed to offer universal morals, then there were no morals top be followed. Socrates is believed to have carried a study on what constituted holiness. This in itself presented an act of impiety. While facing a case in Xenophon, Socrates twice objected to using a divine sign ass he prepared his defense. Socrates in another case chose to save Euthyphro instead of saving himself. In short, the prime focus rests on the accusation against Socrates as introducing new gods in the town. The two philosophers appeared to have veered off societal godl y underpinnings.The fact that Socrates is accused of bringing gods to town serves as a pointer to the fact that there are respected and un-respected gods. Machiavelli’s rebuttal of the Christian faith also presents the philosopher as a person that objects to well crafted societal religious leanings. It is thus held that these two philosophers played a role in jeopardizing well regarded traditions during their time. 3. Socrates uses the human tendency to corruption to propagate his preferred type of leadership. Socrates points to timocracy, democracy, oligarchy, and tyranny as unacceptable forms of government.Socrates finally submitted that if ruling was to attain the best for society, then it should be left to philosopher leaders. In Socrates’ thinking, the philosophers were the most just and least susceptible to graft. The scholar augmented the position by claiming that the philosophers were in a position to rule in pursuit of the good for the city as opposed to for t he self. In a legitimate society, there is no room for societal divisions; all citizens should enjoy same level benefits. Thomas Hobbes’ views on the best possible form or structure of government were premised on a society led by a powerful leviathan.Based on social contract theories, the focus remains on the creation of a strong centre of administration. This type of government as proposed by Hobbes will guarantee the security and welfare of the people. Any abuses that may arise as a result of the leadership by the leviathan must be accepted. This is premised on the fact that the people by setting up the leviathan, agreed to cede their natural power. Socrates manages to drive to his peers that a government is a role played best by people disconnected with self interest.On the other hand, one gets the impression that Hobbes was driving home the need to have a powerful leadership that was not answerable to people. In the Socrates’ society individuals would have a say, w hile in the Hobbesian society, individuals would not hold a say on public issues. 4. Thomas Hobbes believed that human desires, selfish interests, pleasures and pains of a moment played a key role in decision making. These factors among others imply tat the human nature cannot be relied upon in passing judgment on a number of issues as distortions may occur.Hobbes focal point in relation to human nature remains premised on the concept of motivation. Hobbes saw man as a self centered and rationally calculating individual. It is thus highly unlikely that people will pursue common good. Individuals due to their selfish stances are thus destined top pursue personal goals even if this means putting the goals of the rest at stake. In Hobbes thinking, common good is thus an illusion. In reference to Plato, the pursuit of happiness had to lie with the observation of virtues and commonly accepted doctrines.Plato held the Sophistic view concerning knowledge which saw it as subjective and rela tive. This, in reference to Plato, undermined morality. It thus led Plato into believing that there was no infallible truth. Plato failed to see the point why a person who could not understand the self and rules of morality would be bound to look beyond the principle of self actualization. In short, if morality does not take care of individual interests, then individuals are not bound to observe its dictates. Plato saw man’s nature as rational and expected society to be organized in tandem with requirements of civility on rational principles.As a rational being, a human being knows or is in a position to evaluate every case scenario and pursues what best serves the interests desired by the individual in question. 5. On the basis of Aristotle, happiness is not primarily premised upon an exercise of virtue but rather on the administering of an ideal state. In a nut shell, the interests of all are closely knit together such that the interests of all resemble the interests of a s ingle individual in the republic. In precise terms, all individual acts are for the common good. This altruistic stance remains questionable as it is difficult in practice top find such states.Niccolo Machiavelli is famous for the advice given to the monarch with a view to power monopolization. Machiavelli advocated for policies that would discourage mass activism in political affairs. Machiavelli believed the citizenry was well exercising its energies in private practice in the process leaving out political and state activities. In his book, the Prince, Machiavelli urged the monarch to use violence and force to achieve the government goals. Machiavelli held the view that political aims could not be led by a single set of religious or moral ideas.From the above two positions, it emerges that there are interests to be protected by any state or society. The societal or state claims are wide varied as the ruled and the rulers may conflict on interests. Even if there were no conflicts, still issues regarding approach would arise. This puts the leaders, the few, against the ruled, the many. On this basis, Machiavelli sought to have the ruler have enormous responsibility in making decisions as the many could spoil the aspirations of a republic. However, Aristotle envisaged a scenario; whereby the interests are melted down to reflect a single position, a position difficult to reach.Hence this implied that the leaders had to take a position that they thought would serve societal interests. 6. Aristotle viewed natural justice as a special species of political justice. Inn this view, Aristotle believed that a society had to enlist distributive and corrective measures to ensure societal cohesion. Aristotle claimed further, that the best regime may not after all the one that observes the rule of law in its operations. On the basis of Aristotle every civilized society had a set of rules and regulations it used to govern behaviour.In Aristotle’s views, civilized soci ety emerged as a result of the emerging need to develop laws to regulate certain aspects of life within different societies. Thomas Hobbes uses the term leviathan to capture the collective will of people. These people come together to form a government that retains the sovereign authority. To Thomas Hobbes, collective will is the major force behind the formation of a civilized society. The people realized that they had collective desire, to achieve the different desires; they saw it worthy to establish an authority to take care of their needs.The biggest need being the provision of security so that each individual gets to go about their business without undue disturbance. The differences appear minute in this case as Aristotle’s view of a civilized society was based on the need for cohesiveness in society. On the other hand, the need for civility in reference to Thomas Hobbes rested on the drive to protect collective will. The act of protecting collective will is almost in li ne with regulating societal aspects so as to exact compliance. However, this should not be misconstrued to mean that the two mean the same thing as only similarities exist.7. Aristotle believed that family existed just for the sake of political life. Further to this, Aristotle supposedly viewed politics as practiced for friendship purposes. Contrary to this position, Aristotle discussed family relations as types of friendships which are used as designs of political rule. He thus obscures the ordering of the relationships that he advocates in politics. The practice of politics must observe friendly relations just as a family does. In the terms of Aristotle, politics is thus useful in strengthening family ties.The family integrates people into a family and thus aids the formation or the commencement of political life. John Locke’s 2nd treatise of government aimed to show that there was a legitimate foundation between people and power. This was captured by the social contract th eory. Locke believed that a political society is not a form of family. In this regard, Locke was trying to discredit the patriarchal kingship. Locke went further to claim that a magistrate’s position on a case could not be compared o a father’s on a child’s case. Locke saw two distinct societies in this scenario.Locke further claimed that the creation of the two societies was different and meant to achieve different goals. In Locke’s observation, the political society’s end is to possess property unlike a familial one that aims at raising children. The major separation point between the two scholars is premised on the aims of the two societies and how they are formed. Whereas Aristotle assumed that the two societies pursue one aim, Locke clearly shows that the aims are distinct in the two societies. The reasons for formation are equally found to be different as opposed to the views posited by Aristotle. 8.Locke’s position on money is viewed in relation to the right to ownership of property. In Locke’s opinion, each individual had the right to acquire property through hard work. However, Locke only saw it necessary that an individual amasses what they only need and ensure that in that pursuit, their labor does not become destructive. In precise terms, what Locke stood for was acquisitions of needs. He was opposed to excessive accumulation of wealth which defines the current society. Locke appeared to assume that all things were naturally available to everybody and thus objected to the systems of accumulation.An accumulation beyond what one could use at the time amounted to acquiring an unfair share. Aristotle saw the necessity of money in human life. However, he made a number of proposals regarding currency. Aristotle saw money as a common measure of al things available for consumption. In a nut shell, Aristotle saw money as the surest way of equalizing all consumables. In Aristotle’s terms, money was nece ssary to ensure a just and fair exchange system. The philosopher thus argued that money came up in a bid to ease the problem of exchange.In Aristotle’s terms good money had to be durable, portable, divisible, and intrinsically valuable. On the basis of the above presentation, it is crystal clear that Locke saw money as a potential for unfair practices. It could only be fair if each individual would acquire a rightful amount so that everybody’s interests are taken care of. In reference to Aristotle, money was good only if it could be used for constructive purposes. Aristotle did not envisage money to be used in a commercialized manner. This is because of what Aristotle perceived as the nature’s limited nature.

Context of Islam and Buddhist Fundamentalism Essay

At its most basic aspect fundamentalism implies attention to the religious fundamentals. According to Martin Marty, groups who feel themselves to be at risk in society return to certain sacred fundamentals as a method for both staving off the attacks of modernity and for reclaiming their own place in a sacred history. Modernity, in this sense, is to be understood in the following context. First, it is to be seen as characterized by the rationalization of authority, and the replacement of a large number of traditional, religious, familial, and ethnic political authorities by a single, secular, national political authority. Second, it is to be seen as involving the differentiation of new political functions and the development of specialized structure for the performance of these functions and third, it is to be seen as the development of increased participation in politics throughout society. Modernity, in this sense, requires the development of a pluralistic society that enables the development of positive identities as opposed to identities understood within the context of marginalized groups or communities. Within a modernist worldview, fundamentalism is thereby seen as a form of ideology, which refuses the consideration of other perspectives. In relation to this, Marty contends, â€Å"people in such cultures [fundamentalist cultures] were threatened by the erosion or assault of what they considered to be ‘modern’† (276). In addition to this, he further states that such cultures thereby use fundamentalist tenets, as â€Å"instruments and weapons for reactivity where†¦the real or presumed foundational elements of belief and practice, story and law† are utilized in order to enable the â€Å"selective retrieval of the past† (Marty 277). If such is the case, fundamentalism may thereby be characterized with a certain form of â€Å"conviction in the world of ‘postmodern relativism’† (Marty 377). However, such a conviction is generally misconstrued as enabling the development of an irrational actor and hence the performance of irrational actions. The practice of fundamentalism has generally been associated with religion hence one is presented with the various forms of religious fundamentalisms such as Catholic fundamentalism, Islam fundamentalism and Buddhist fundamentalism to name a few. As was noted above, such religious groups focus on the fundamental philosophical assumptions of their religion which allows the selective retrieval of a real or presumed history which becomes the basis for fundamentalists’ actions. Due to this, it is generally assumed that fundamentalists are privy to the commitment of irrational actions. From the onset, it is important to note that such an assumption is based upon a misleading conception of the fundamentalist movement. Furthermore, it is important to note that such a conception of fundamentalism is based on an understanding of fundamentalism based on its function. In line with this, the task of this paper is two-fold. First, it aims to discuss the practice of fundamentalism within Islam and Buddhism and second, it aims to consider the effects of these practices on the rights of the minority members of such groups. In order to be more specific, the paper will focus on the philosophical assumptions of such movements and how these assumptions determine and affect the rights of the minority members of such groups specifically that of women. As I reckon, an understanding of fundamentalism necessitates an understanding of it content since it is only through the analysis of fundamentalism’s content that one may be able to present an accurate depiction of the inherent power of the ideas within the movement as well as the relevance of the political actors’ normative commitments. Such an understanding of fundamentalism does not necessarily replace the functional purpose of the ideas within the movement. However, in relation to this, I would like to contend that such an understanding of the movement, which necessitates the separation of the function and meaning, fails to comprehend the dichotomy of meaning and function thereby failing to consider the correlation of meaning and function. Such a failure, on the other hand, leads to the delineation of fundamentalism as form of ideology as opposed to a form of political philosophy. This is evident if one considers Marty and Appleby’s understanding of fundamentalism. According to Marty and Appleby, the general characteristic of fundamentalism presents the aforementioned movement as â€Å"reflecting upon the evocative and defining power of the sacred [in an attempt] to harness this power for†¦a variety of political, social and religious ends† (qtd in Henston 131). In this sense, fundamentalism may be understood as seeking to â€Å"reconsecrate the world† (Henston 131). In relation to this Heston claims that Marty and Appleby considers fundamentalism as offering a specific â€Å"reading of certain texts of the history [a particular] religion and peoples†¦hence fundamentalism appeals frequently†¦on sacred space that provides a concrete focus† (131). Such a depiction of fundamentalism with the emphasis on its religious character as well as its aim of reconsecration fails to consider that fundamentalism is characterized by the need for belonging or for security. Within Islam, it is generally assumed that the most common manifestation of fundamentalism can be seen in the position of the female within society’s hierarchy of power. Holsdon and Rozario note that â€Å"Islam is necessarily more patriarchal or more oppressive to women than other religions† (331). The reason for this can be traced to the status given to the female by a literal interpretation of the Qur’an and the Shari’a. Mohammad, himself, describes Islam as â€Å"a religion of right-doing, right-thinking, and right-speaking founded on divine love, universal charity, and the equality of man in the sight of the Lord† (qtd in Syed 157). A literal interpretation of this passage excludes the female from the treatment of equality. Moghissi states, Regardless of the interpretation of the Qur’an and the Shari’a, if the Qur’anic instructions are taken literally, Islamic individuals or societies cannot favor equal rights for women in the family or in certain areas of social life †¦ If the principles of the Shari’a are to be maintained †¦ women cannot enjoy equality before the law and in the law. (140–1) The two most prominent examples of these in Islam can be seen in the allowance of polygamy as well as the requirement that women should be concealed and secluded. One might note that such conditions may be considered as fostering inequality within Islam religions as it places the female in a subordinate position to the male however, it has also been argued that these do not necessarily lead to inequality within Islam. Agosin argues that such an assumption [that the conditions set within both the Qur’an and the Shari’a leads to female inequality] may be seen as a result of a patriarchal society’s misrepresentation of religion and culture (236). The function of this misrepresentation is to maintain women in a position that best serves patriarchal priorities. It is important to contextualize such a claim within the basic assumption of Islam’s religious philosophy. The teachings of Islam are concentrated on the notions of faith and duty. The term Islam itself is equivalent to the concept of submission in the English language. Islam may thereby be seen as the religion of submission wherein one submits to the will of Allah as it is stated in the Qur’an. The problem is thereby presented when one considers the contradictory accounts regarding the treatment of the female as it is presented in the aforementioned text. There are accounts which recognize the equality of both members of the sexes as well as accounts which places the female as a subordinate to the male. If such is the case, it cannot be argued that autonomy may not be granted to the female since a literal interpretation of the aforementioned texts allows instances of freedom on the side of the female. This, however, does not change the fact that Islam operates under the assumption of separate roles and spheres of activities for both men and women. As opposed to Islam, the practice of fundamentalism may be seen in Buddhist religions in different forms depending on the form of Buddhism practiced by a particular group. In the same way that Islam adheres to a certain form of separate-spheres ideology between men and women, Buddhism controls the female as a result of her dangerous sexuality which is considered as potentially dangerous to men. In order to deal with such a problem, marriages are arranged for women at a young age in order to ensure their chastity. According to the traditional doctrine, embraced in Theravada movements, every woman must bear three kinds of subordination. The first is â€Å"to her father when she is young, to her husband while she married, and to her son when she old† (qtd in Paul 53). Such a doctrine is enforced in reality is punished with certain sanctions. A woman who fails to conform to this approved role is stigmatized and devalued within society. The similarity between Islam and Buddhism fundamentalist movements can traced to the value that they place upon the female subject. This value however prevents the female’s attainment of autonomy as a result of her assumed natural subordination to the male. The effects of fundamentalism within these movements may thereby be seen as hindering and in fact enabling the subordination of the female. Works Cited Abu-Nimer, M. â€Å"A Framework for Non-violence and Peacebuilding in Islam. † Journal of Law and Religion 15. 2 (2001): 217-265. Agosin, Marjorie. Women, Gender, and Human Rights: A Global Perspective. London: Rutgers, 2001. Hilsdon, Anne and Santi Rozario. â€Å"Special Issue on Islam, Gender, and Human Rights. † Women’s Studies International Forum 29 (2006): 331-338. Henston, A. â€Å"Crusades and Jihads: A Long-Run Economic Perspective. † Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Sciences 588 (2003): 112-135. Marty, M. â€Å"The Future of World Fundamentalism. † Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society 142. 3 (1998): 367-77. Paul, Diane. Women in Buddhism: images of the Feminine in Mahayana Tradition. Syed, Ameer. The Spirit of Islam Or the Life and Teachings of Mohammad: Or the Life and Teachings of Mohammed. Np: Gorgias Press, 2002.