2026-2035 IS THE UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL DECADE OF SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT In 2026, the United Nations will begin its first-ever Decade of Sustainable Transport, a ten-year global push designed to make how people and goods move safer, cleaner, more affordable, and more accessible—and to keep transport front and center in the world’s work toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Decade runs through 2035 and was declared by the UN General Assembly in a resolution focused on strengthening connections among all modes of transport to support sustainable development. Header Image: The first BYD Dolphin Mini rolls off the assembly line in Brazil on July 1, 2025. BYD Limited is the world's number one manufacturer of electric vehicles and is sold in over 100 countries. Photo courtesy of BYD Company Ltd. The UN Decade of Sustainable Transport is a year-by-year umbrella initiative that encourages governments, cities, industry, international organizations, and civil society to coordinate policy, investment, and innovation around sustainable mobility. While transport does not have a single standalone SDG, UN guidance notes that it is embedded across multiple SDG targets and functions as a practical enabler for outcomes like resilient infrastructure, food security, health, economic growth, trade, energy efficiency, and climate action. Transport is one of the world’s biggest “everyday systems”—and one of its most stubborn challenge areas. The latest IPCC synthesis of transport mitigation research underscores the scale: the transport sector accounts for roughly 15% of total global greenhouse gas emissions and about 23% of global energy-related CO₂ emissions. That reality makes mobility a climate issue, but the UN framing is broader than carbon alone. Sustainable transport also touches equity (who can reach jobs and schools), public health (air pollution and active transport), and economic resilience (supply chains and logistics). Safety is another driver. The World Health Organization estimates about 1.19 million people die each year in road traffic crashes, with a disproportionate share of deaths in low- and middle-income countries and among vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. These numbers help explain why the UN “sustainable transport” conversation consistently includes road safety, walkability, and protections for vulnerable users alongside electrification and clean fuels. Who leads it? UN materials identify the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) as the main UN entity tasked with developing the Decade’s Implementation Plan, in collaboration with the UN Regional Commissions and in consultation with Member States and other stakeholders. In practice, that means the Decade functions as a coordinating platform: UN agencies and partners contribute expertise (from aviation to maritime to urban planning), while governments and non-governmental actors propose and carry out initiatives aligned to the shared framework. Like many UN “decade” designations, it is observed globally—not in one host city. Expect activity across national ministries, mayor’s offices, transit agencies, ports, airports, universities, development banks, NGOs, and private-sector coalitions. The UN’s SDG platform positions the Decade as a way to rally solutions, resources, and partnerships worldwide. PARTICIPATION —Cities, agencies, companies, universities, and NGOs can align programs to the Decade’s goals—such as bus electrification pilots, safe-streets redesigns, freight efficiency initiatives, disability-access upgrades, and logistics decarbonization. —Researchers and educators can participate through data, measurement, and capacity-building—helping communities assess emissions, safety outcomes, affordability, and access. —Community groups and residents can engage locally: road-safety campaigns, school travel plans, cycling and walking initiatives, transit advocacy, and “complete streets” public consultations. —Organizations seeking UN visibility can track UN channels for stakeholder engagement opportunities connected to the Decade’s Implementation Plan and related events. Across the decade, the UN’s message is that sustainable transport is not a niche topic—it is the connective tissue of development. Whether the work happens through safer roads, cleaner vehicles, stronger public transit, better freight systems, or more walkable cities, the Decade is meant to keep mobility improvements moving at a faster pace than business-as-usual.

Africa

Jan

Orange Bowl: January 1

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THE TANGIEST BOWL GAME: THE ORANGE BOWL The Orange Bowl, with its rich history dating back to 1935, is one of the most storied and celebrated college football bowl games in the United States. Held annually in Miami, Florida, it has become a vital fixture of the college football postseason, showcasing some of the sport's most memorable moments and legendary athletes. The Orange Bowl was created by Miami officials seeking to attract tourists to the city during the winter months. The inaugural game was played on January 1, 1935, with Bucknell University defeating the University of Miami 26-0. Originally held at the Miami Orange Bowl stadium, the game moved to the state-of-the-art Hard Rock Stadium in 1996, which drew large crowds and national attention. From its early days, the Orange Bowl has featured top-tier competition, initially pitting teams from the southern United States against highly-ranked national opponents. Over the years, the bowl has hosted numerous national champions and Heisman Trophy winners, solidifying its reputation for high-stakes and high-quality football. The Orange Bowl gained further prominence with the advent of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) in 1998, becoming one of the four major bowls that rotated hosting the national championship game. Its status was further elevated in 2014 when it became part of the College Football Playoff (CFP) system, a testament to its significance in the national championship landscape. It now hosts a semifinal game every three years and remains a New Year's Six bowl, ensuring it features marquee matchups annually. The Orange Bowl's significance extends beyond the football field. The game is a major economic driver for the Miami area, generating substantial revenue through tourism and related activities. However, its true impact lies in its vital role in the community. Through the Orange Bowl Committee's philanthropic efforts, it supports local charities and educational initiatives, inspiring others to do the same and making a tangible difference in the community. The Orange Bowl's rich tradition, spanning over eight decades, combined with its role in shaping the national championship landscape and its community impact, underscores its enduring importance. It remains a celebrated event that highlights the excitement, competition, and pageantry of college football, continuing to captivate fans and contribute to the sport's legacy.

Africa

Jan

ReliaQuest Bowl: January 1

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TAMPA TAKES ON FOOTBALL: THE RELIAQUEST BOWL The ReliaQuest Bowl, a prominent fixture in college football, boasts a rich history dating back to its inception in 1986. Initially known as the Hall of Fame Bowl, the game took place in Tampa, Florida, aiming to boost tourism and provide a high-profile postseason matchup. In 1996, it was renamed the Outback Bowl following a sponsorship deal with Outback Steakhouse, and in 2022, it adopted its current name under a new sponsorship with ReliaQuest, a cybersecurity firm. The ReliaQuest Bowl's significance stems from its role in the college football landscape as a significant bowl game. Traditionally played on New Year's Day, it features top teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big Ten Conference, showcasing high-caliber competition and often drawing significant attention from fans and media alike. This positioning allows the game to attract quality teams and produce memorable matchups, contributing to its prestige and importance. Over the years, the ReliaQuest Bowl has become a celebrated event known for its competitive games and festive atmosphere. It not only highlights the participating teams' achievements but also supports charitable causes through its foundation, positively impacting the local community. The game typically invites a high-ranking team from the SEC to face off against a comparable opponent from the Big Ten, ensuring a competitive and entertaining contest. This setup has led to numerous thrilling games and standout performances, cementing the ReliaQuest Bowl's reputation as a must-watch event in the college football postseason. The ReliaQuest Bowl represents excellence and tradition in college football, providing a platform for elite competition and community engagement. Its evolution and sustained popularity underscore its importance in the broader context of American college sports.

Africa

Jan

Rose Bowl (US-CA): January 1

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THE FRAGRANT FOOTBALL GAME: THE ROSE BOWL Often referred to as "The Granddaddy of Them All," the Rose Bowl stands as the oldest and one of the most prestigious bowl games in college football. Its rich history dates back to January 1, 1902, when the first game was played as part of the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena, California. The game was initially organized to support the parade and promote the city as a winter vacation destination, a tradition that continues to this day. Though initially intended as a one-time event, the Rose Bowl returned in 1916 and has been held annually ever since. Traditionally played on New Year's Day, the game is a cornerstone of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, a festival that includes the famous Rose Parade. The Rose Bowl's significance lies in its tradition and the high-quality competition it attracts. With long-standing ties to the Big Ten and Pac-12 conferences, it typically features the champions of these conferences. This matchup has created some of the most memorable moments in college football history. In 1998, the Rose Bowl became a part of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS), a move that significantly elevated its status. It occasionally hosted the BCS National Championship Game, further cementing its importance in the college football landscape. In 2014, it became one of the six bowls in the College Football Playoff (CFP) system, hosting a CFP semifinal game every three years. This development added a new layer of excitement to the game, making it an integral part of the national championship race. Nestled in Pasadena with the San Gabriel Mountains as a backdrop, the Rose Bowl's location adds to its allure. Built in 1922, the stadium is a National Historic Landmark and has hosted numerous significant events beyond college football. These include Super Bowls, World Cup matches, and Olympic events, all of which have contributed to the stadium's rich history and cultural significance. The Rose Bowl epitomizes the pinnacle of college football tradition and excellence in college athletics.

Africa

Jan

Stock Exchange Holiday (NYSE Closed): January 1

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Stock Market Holidays are days on which the stock exchange is closed, and no trading occurs on this day.

Africa

Jan

Sugar Bowl: January 1

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THE SWEETEST BOWL GAME: THE SUGAR BOWL The Sugar Bowl is among the oldest and most prestigious college football games in the United States. Established in 1935, the game is played annually in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has been held at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome since 1975. The Sugar Bowl began to boost tourism in New Orleans during the winter months. Col. James M. Thomson, publisher of the New Orleans Item, and sports editor Fred Digby first proposed the idea. His vision was to create a football classic akin to the Rose Bowl, attracting visitors to the city and providing an economic boost. His efforts paid off when the first game was played on January 1, 1935, with Tulane University defeating Temple University 20-14. Over the years, the Sugar Bowl has grown in prominence and is now a vital part of the college football postseason landscape. It was one of the original members of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) and is now part of the College Football Playoff (CFP) rotation, hosting a semifinal game every three years. The game traditionally features top teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big 12 Conference, though its matchups have varied. The Sugar Bowl's impact transcends the field, making it a significant event for New Orleans. It plays a pivotal role in the local economy, contributing substantially through tourism and related activities. The game's rich tradition of showcasing high-stakes, competitive football, often influencing national championship outcomes, further solidifies its place in the sport's lore. Moreover, the Sugar Bowl organization's commitment to community involvement is a shining example of its positive influence. By supporting youth sports and educational initiatives in the New Orleans area, it demonstrates a dedication that goes beyond the game. This combination of athletic excellence, economic impact, and community support underscores the enduring importance of the Sugar Bowl in the landscape of American college football.

Africa

Jan

The Tournament of Roses Parade (US-CA): January 1

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A FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS AND ARTISTIC ACHIEVEMENT: THE TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE The Tournament of Roses Parade, or simply Rose Parade, is a beloved New Year's Day tradition, dazzles spectators with its vibrant display of floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units. It began in 1890 when Pasadena's Valley Hunt Club members sought to showcase the region's mild winter weather to their East Coast and Midwestern friends. They decorated carriages with flowers and organized a parade, attracting thousands of visitors. What makes the Rose Parade unique is its stringent requirement that all floats be covered entirely in natural materials such as flowers, leaves, seeds, and bark. This rule led to elaborate and stunningly beautiful creations, often taking months of planning and thousands of labor to construct. The parade serves multiple purposes: it celebrates the start of the New Year, promotes the city of Pasadena, and sets the stage for the Rose Bowl Game, which follows the parade. Over the years, the Rose Parade has grown in scope and grandeur, featuring participants worldwide and being broadcast to millions of viewers globally. Each year, the Tournament of Roses Association selects a theme for the parade, inspiring float designs and performances that reflect various cultural and social themes. The event also includes the selection of the Rose Queen and her Royal Court, who play prominent roles in the festivities. The Rose Parade's combination of tradition, community involvement, and artistic expression ensures its continued popularity and relevance, making it a cherished part of American culture and a festive start to the New Year.

Africa

Jan

Bloody Mary Day: January 1

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The 18th Amendment and the Russian Revolution are responsible for the favorite hangover cocktail cure, the Bloody Mary. The 18th Amendment forced Americans who enjoyed libations overseas to find relief from Prohibition. Meanwhile, a revolution was in full swing on the other side of the world. People escaping Russia arrived in Europe with their favorite distilled spirit, and both groups of refugees converged in Paris. During this time, Harry Mac Elhone built an authentic New York bar in Paris, complete with the original bar from the States. The French found this novelty delightful; Americans sought it out as a taste of home, and the Russians just wanted to have a good time. Mac Elhone found vodka to be rather tasteless and bland. His bartender Ferdinand "Pet" Petiot, spent months fooling around with the liquor, attempting to make something novel. Then one day, he combined it with a tomato juice cocktail and spices. Bam! The Bloody Mary was born, except it was called Bucket of Blood. Then, the Red Snapper. To get to the name Bloody Mary would require the end of Prohibition and a trip back to New York, specifically at the King Cole Bar in the St. Regis Hotel. Petiot was lured back by the Astors. There are several stories about why the Red Snapper morphed into Bloody Mary. Some say it pays homage to Mary Tudor I of England, Queen Elizabeth I's half-sister, who was famous for killing Protestants. Or possibly after actor George Jessel's friend, Mary Geraghty. Or simply because it was easier to remember than Red Snapper and more appealing than a bucket of blood. However, the drink received its name. By 1946 the drink was thus called in print. Bloody Mary Day falls on January 1 because on New Year's Eve, people tend to drink too much and thus need this hangover cure first thing in the morning.

Africa

Jan

Bonza Bottler Day™, Intl: January 1

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When the number of the month matches the number of the day, that's Bonza Bottler Day. It is a play on numbers. There are twelve Bonza Bottler Days a year. This event began in 1985. Bonza is Australian for "Super." Bottler is slang for "something excellent."

Africa

Jan

Dishonor List Day, (US/CA)(1976): January 1

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Dishonor List Day (Banishment List Day) began as a publicity stunt. New Year's Day host the event, given its reputation as a "slow news day." The chances of the stunt gaining traction increased significantly. Dishonor List Day is when Lake Superior State University releases its official list of Words Banished from the Queen's English for Misuse, Over-Use, and General Uselessness. The list first ran in 1976. Each year people from around the world nominate hundred of words and phrases they're sick of hearing. The idea is to purge the offending words and phrases from the language. LSSU Public Relations Office staff conduct dozens of news interviews, mainly with radio stations throughout North America and sometimes overseas, on all major networks, including Cable News Network, Associated Press, Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, and more. Additional stunts created to raise awareness of the university include establishing the mythical Unicorn Hunters and the annual Snowman Burning on the first day of spring.

Africa

Jan

Ellis Island Day (1892): January 1

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Today marks the anniversary of the opening of Ellis Island on January 1, 1892. Ellis Island was the immigration gateway into the US on the East Coast from the late 19th Century through the mid-20th Century. Approximately 17,000,000 immigrants were admitted through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954, when it closed. Ellis Island was reopened in the fall of 1990 and remains a top tourist attraction in New York City.

Africa

Sep

Wine Box Month, Intl.: September

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BOXED WINE COMES INTO ITS OWN

INTERNATIONAL BOXED WINE DAY

International Boxed Wine Day celebrates the innovation, environmental benefits, and increasing respectability of boxed wine. It was established in February 2021 by Wine Nook, a company known for designing stylish boxed-wine dispensers, to highlight the convenience, quality, and eco-friendliness of boxed wine packaging.

HISTORY

Packaged wine as we know it—"bag-in-box" or "boxed wine"—was pioneered by Australian vintner Thomas Angove of Renmark, South Australia, who patented the design on April 20, 1964. His innovation featured a polyethylene bladder inside a cardboard box. Two years later, Charles Malpas improved it with a plastic tap for easier pouring. The design was inspired by pre-existing bag-in-box packaging used for battery acid—Yikes!

The concept quickly gained popularity in Australia, and in the 1980s, Franzia, an Australian brand, introduced boxed wine to the U.S. as an affordable, convenient table wine.

DEMOGRAPHICS

While detailed demographics are limited, trends show strong appeal among eco-conscious consumers, casual drinkers, and those seeking convenience or value. Brands like Juliet and Bota Box, with sleek packaging and premium wine inside, are deliberately targeting at-home relaxation and particularly appealing to women.

European markets have seen significant adoption, with countries like Sweden reporting that bag-in-box accounts for nearly 29% of total wine sales. In France, boxed wine makes up around 45% of supermarket wine sales.

A BILLION-DOLLAR INDUSTRY

While long-term yearly data from the 1960s is limited, several sources highlight notable growth:

—Between 2015 and 2019, boxed wine brands outpaced still bottled wine in both value and volume growth.

—Recent data shows boxed wine sales in U.S. off-premise retail reaching approximately $1.6 billion in the $4-plus price tier, up nearly 9% year-over-year.

—Total boxed wine sales in the latest four weeks were about $164 million, reflecting a 4% increase, although volume declined slightly.

—Globally, the wine box packaging market was valued at about $1.11 billion in 2022. It grew at an estimated CAGR of 3.5% from 2015 to 2021.

Annual growth is projected at around 5.1% through 2032, reaching $1.83 billion. The growth of boxed wine continues, driven by rising wine consumption, e-commerce demand, and sustainability concerns.

TOP BRANDS

Franzia is one of the most recognizable boxed wine brands, sold in 3- and 5-liter cartons and known for affordability. Founded in 1906 by Teresa Franzia, the brand is now owned by The Wine Group and remains among the world's top-selling wine brands.

In the U.S., premium boxed wine brands like Black Box (Constellation) and Bota Box (Delicato Family Wines) have driven market interest, with combined sales reaching nearly 14 million cases annually.

BOTTLE VS BOX

Boxed wine is increasingly shedding its "cheap and low-quality" stigma:

—The packaging prevents oxidation after opening, keeping wine fresh for up to six weeks—far longer than typical bottles.

—It offers substantial cost savings—up to 40%—thanks to reduced packaging and logistics.

—The eco-advantages are compelling: reusable cardboard boxes weigh less, cut carbon emissions, and require less manufacturing energy.

Upscale establishments like Merriman's in Hawaii are encouraging high-end wineries to adopt boxed packaging to replace thousands of glass bottles and reduce their carbon footprints.

The emergence of premium boxed wines—by Juliet, Bota Box, Tablas Creek, and others—demonstrates that quality and aesthetic appeal can rival traditional bottles.

However, bottled wine still retains its romantic and traditional allure, and for some connoisseurs, certain varietals and vintages still benefit from traditional bottling.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

INVENTOR: Thomas Angove (1964), Charles Malpas tap (1967)

MARKET GROWTH: Strong growth from 2015 to 2019; $1.6 billion in U.S. sales in the 4-plus dollar tier; global market valued at about $1.1 billion in 2022, projected to reach $1.8 billion by 2032.

DEMOGRAPHICS: Eco-conscious consumers, casual drinkers, women at home; strong European adoption.

TOP BRANDS: Franzia, Black Box, Bota Box.

BENEFITS: Longer freshness, cost savings, eco-friendliness, rising quality and growing prestige.

Africa

Sep

Porthcawl Elvis Festival (UK): September 26-28

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PORTHCAWL'S ELVIS EXTRAVAGANZA

ROCKS EUROPE'S COASTLINE

Each September, the seaside town of Porthcawl transforms into "Elvisville," hosting the Porthcawl Elvis Festival, regarded as the largest Elvis tribute festival in Europe—possibly even the world. Porthcawl's charm lies in its joyful absurdity—a small Welsh town taken over by Elvismania.

The festival was conceived in 2004 by local entertainer and promoter Peter Phillips. His intent was simple: rescue the historic Grand Pavilion from threatened closure by giving it a purpose. He proposed an award show for Elvis tribute artists, thinking it would pull in crowds and attention—and it did. What began as a modest gathering of around 500 fans evolved into a full-blown cultural institution.

Phillips credits the festival's longevity to its balance: "getting the quality of the music right at one end and not taking it too seriously at the other end and just making a party of it."

Crowds swell to around 40,000 annually, with fans and tribute artists traveling from around the globe.

The festival features a professional competition where contestants—known as Elvis Tribute Artists (ETAs)—are judged on voice, moves, stage presence, and costume, vying to be crowned the best in Porthcawl.

The town itself becomes one giant stage: pubs, cafés, and hotels host mini-performances; the streets fill with Elvis impersonators in full regalia; there are contests like Young Elvis and even a "Hound Dog" best-dressed-dog parade. One minister even hosted a church service as Elvis—in Welsh. The festival also spotlights rising stars—like Emilio Santoro, a Brit who first competed at 13, and was later crowned "best Elvis in the world."

The event now injects millions of pounds into the local economy, with estimates around £6 million annually.

ABOUT ELVIS PRESLEY

Elvis Aaron Presley (1935–1977), born in Tupelo, Mississippi, rose from humble beginnings to become the "King of Rock' n' Roll." His breakthrough came with Sun Records in Memphis in 1954, and his dynamic blend of gospel, blues, country, and pop—coupled with his charisma and signature moves—redefined popular music. Hits like "That's All Right (Mama)" made him a teen idol; movies and television followed. He passed away at Graceland in 1977, but his musical legacy remains unmatched.

Africa

Sep

Mofongo Day, Ntl: September 24

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A PUERTO RICAN CLASSIC

NATIONAL MOFONGO DAY

National Mofongo Day honors Puerto Rico's iconic dish, mofongo, coinciding with National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Puerto Rican chef José Mendín launched the event in 2023 with a festive gathering at his restaurant La Placita.

Mofongo traces its roots to the West African dish fufu, brought to the Caribbean by enslaved people. In Puerto Rico, this technique blended with Indigenous Taíno practices and Spanish culinary influences, evolving into the uniquely rich and flavorful mofongo enjoyed today. The name "mofongo" derives from the Angolan Kikongo term mfwenge-mfwenge, meaning "a great amount of anything at all." Historical recipes appear as early as 1859 in Puerto Rico's first cookbook, El Cocinero Puerto-Riqueño o Formulario, describing a version made with green plantains, garlic, lard or bacon, and seasonings, mashed and served with broth.

Traditional mofongo is made by frying green plantain slices until tender and then mashing them in a wooden mortar (pilón) with garlic, pork cracklings (chicharrón), salt, and fat such as olive oil, lard, or butter. Broth enriches the texture, while balling or doming it adds to its appeal.

Variations include mofongo de yuca (cassava), mofongo de pana (breadfruit), and combinations of multiple starches such as "bifongo" and "trifongo." Stuffed versions—like mofongo relleno—may contain seafood, poultry, or meats.

Beyond its savory appeal, mofongo is beloved as a cultural emblem—reflecting Puerto Rico's African, Spanish, and Indigenous heritage. It is a symbol of identity, community, and culinary creativity, regularly featured in family meals, celebrations, and restaurants both on the island and across the diaspora.

Africa

Sep

Arielle K. Sterrett Day (1999): September 17

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PROMOTING HAPPINESS AND KINDNESS

ARIELLE K STERRETT DAY

Arielle K. Sterrett (Sept. 17, 1999 – Oct. 22, 2017) was born in Plantation, Florida, the daughter of Michelle Rojas-Sterrett and Guillermo Sterrett. Raised in Kennesaw, Georgia, she was a senior at North Cobb High School and earned recognition as both an Honor and Magnet student.

Sterrett's life, though brief, left a luminous mark on her school community. Described as compassionate, generous and vivacious, she engaged in a wide array of student activities—from Peer Mediation and Anti-Bully Committee to Tribal Connections, Athletic Student Council, Shop with a Warrior, Rally for Childhood Cancer, Hearts for Hooves, and serving as a peer minister and camp counselor.

On Oct. 22, 2017, Sterrett passed away unexpectedly at age 18 due to breathing complications, prompting an outpouring of grief and remembrance. Her parents created this day in 2021 as a way to keep her memory alive and encourage others to show kindness and care toward each other.

Africa