Global internet speed is picking up. In 2017, world internet speeds increased more than 30%. Adriane Blum, Head of Communications at Ookla, a company specialized in broadband testing, network diagnostic applications, and data, was with us to discuss what's driving this improvement.
With the FCC rolling back net neutrality regulations, many questions about the future of the internet are beginning to surface. Internet speed is one of the factors that could potentially be impacted by the vote. Blum says the key takeaway is transparency of data, as we face new risks.
Despite improved global speed, Ookla says there were far too many countries and regions where internet speed decreased. Hurricane Maria put a dent in Puerto Rico's internet capabilities, contributing to the island's 39.8% drop in mobile download speed over the past year.
Cheddar News senior reporter, Michelle Castillo joined Scott Keogh, CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, for a ride in the new ID.Buzz electric van at South by Southwest. Keogh touched on issues from the auto giant's commitment to electrification and achieving carbon neutrality to the need for more charging infrastructure to support the electric vehicle wave. "We made a commitment to be CO2 neutral, and I think the reason it is, simplistically is, we're the world's largest car company. We're responsible for 1 percent of global CO2 emissions, and frankly, leaders have to lead and so that's what we want to do," he said.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Monday laid out a proposal that would require businesses to disclose the emissions they produce. Kathleen Rogers, CEO & President at EARTHDAY.ORG, joined Cheddar News to break down the implications of this historic step.
Electric car manufacturer Tesla opened its first European factory on the outskirts of Berlin in an effort to challenge German automakers on their home turf.