South Africa is introducing a new value-added tax (VAT) on cheap clothing imports in order to protect its local fashion brands.

The tax aims to prevent fast-fashion giants like Shein from taking advantage of tax breaks through unfair workarounds.

The crackdown will raise global retail prices, encouraging locals to buy from South African brands.

Edge: Conscious Convenience

Nissan is developing a “cool paint” that reflects and blocks sunlight in order to keep drivers coolers.

The paint lowers the cars’ roof-panel temperature by 12°C and the interiors by 5°C, reducing the need for air conditioning.

From buildings to cars, cooling materials are becoming essential armor against extreme heat.

Edge: Inclement Armor

California has finally launched its first two electric commuter trains, with plans to roll out 17 more by next month.

The new trains will be quieter, faster, and less polluting than the current fleet, which require over 4 billion gallons of diesel a year.

While China, India and the E.U. are well on their way to fully electrifying their rail lines, California’s progress marks a major step forward for the U.S.

Edge: Rerouted