Struck by the last line: "Bangladesh announced plans to close all universities from Monday, bringing forward the Eid al-Fitr holidays as part of an emergency bid to conserve electricity and fuel."
I think a lot about how abundant fossil fuels have allowed us in rich countries to largely ignore the seasons, or the cost of resources. Not everyone has that luxury. (And extra holiday sounds great, but think about all the planning it throws awry).
Snow days / being sent home when you're a kid: awesome! more play!
Unexpected changes to routine when you're an adult: oh god oh god how are we going to get all the things done that need to be done, especially with the young kids underfoot and the older kids back from university early, and everyone will still expect excellent holiday food...
Kids of university age are old enough to make their own meals, starting with foraging. It's educational.
In fact, they can cook your meals, too. Go on, put your feet up.
Nations like Bangladesh or India are doing war to develop different economic pathways then getting mixed up in the planet killing global economy.
They still are very much mixed up in it, but there are initiatives in groups that sequel alternatives rather than buying into the whole industrialization spiel.
India and nations all across Southeast Asia understand that the green Revolution is unsustainable for instance. They know it kills the land they depend on.
Jenny Chase
sunflowerinrain
HoldMyType
Bart Allen
GhostOnTheHalfShell
soaproot