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Cyprus Hosts UN’s New Space Office To Boost Disaster Response In The Eastern Mediterranean

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 20, 2025

Cyprus is making a significant leap onto the global stage in disaster management with the launch of a new space-based initiative. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence paves the way for the creation of a Regional Support Office (RSO) for the UN’s UN-SPIDER program, aimed at harnessing satellite technology to tackle disasters in the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond.

This strategic partnership will strengthen regional and global efforts to use space-based tools for disaster management and risk reduction. The ERATOSTHENES CoE, known for its cutting-edge research in satellite and airborne remote sensing, will host the new RSO, bringing its advanced expertise to the UN-SPIDER network.

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The new office will focus on offering technical advisory support, capacity-building in space technology, and sharing knowledge from Earth Observation data to mitigate the impact of disasters. The RSO will also play a key role in providing real-time assistance during emergencies, ranging from earthquakes and forest fires to floods and coastal erosion.

Dr. Marios Tzouvaras, Research Coordinator at ERATOSTHENES CoE, highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that the center’s extensive research in satellite imagery and data analysis will play a crucial role in disaster risk reduction. “Our collaboration with UNOOSA will allow us to apply our long-term scientific knowledge to real-world challenges, not just for Cyprus but for the entire region,” Tzouvaras said.

With the agreement set to begin in February 2025, Cyprus is poised to become a central node in UNOOSA’s mission to bring space-based disaster response solutions to the global community. This partnership marks a crucial step in the evolution of disaster management, leveraging the power of space to save lives and reduce risks across multiple regions.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 15, 2025

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

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Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.