NPR News Now: November 29, 2024, 3PM EST

Host: Norah Rahm
Producer: NPR
Duration: Approximately 5 minutes

Black Friday Sets Record Amid Inflation Concerns

Timestamp: 00:19 - 01:19

Black Friday, the busiest shopping day for physical stores in the U.S., is anticipated to break previous sales records this holiday season. Alina Selyuk reports that the National Retail Federation forecasts a 3.5% increase in retail sales compared to last year. This surge is attributed partly to inflation, where higher prices lead consumers to spend more despite buying fewer items. However, a significant factor is the willingness of wealthier shoppers to indulge, coupled with many expecting substantial discounts during the sales period.

Notable Quote:

“Higher prices mean we spend more to buy less, but that's not the whole story. A greater share of people also plan to splurge this holiday season,”
— Julia Simon, NPR News (00:41)

Retailers are preparing for a record influx of shoppers over the long weekend extending through Monday, leveraging the allure of discounts to attract consumers tightening their budgets.

UN Plastic Pollution Talks Face Fossil Fuel Lobbying

Timestamp: 01:19 - 02:49

At UN Talks in South Korea, lobbyists from the energy and chemical sectors are actively involved in negotiations aimed at establishing a global treaty to reduce plastic pollution. Julia Simon highlights that the International Energy Agency notes a declining demand for oil due to the rise of electric vehicles. Despite this trend, the oil and petrochemical industries are increasingly dependent on the plastic market for their future viability.

Notable Quotes:

“Plastic is mostly made from byproducts of oil and gas... the future of their industry increasingly reliant on demand for plastics.”
— Kim Ledbetter, NPR News (01:32)

“We are not talking about a choice between life or death. We are talking about giving dying people a choice of how to die.”
— Unnamed Opponent, British Lawmakers (02:33)

The proposed solutions include capping plastic production, but fossil fuel representatives advocate for enhanced recycling efforts—a stance challenged by the reality that much of plastic waste remains non-recyclable. The talks are witnessing significant lobbying efforts, with a record 220 fossil fuel and chemical industry lobbyists participating, according to the Center for International Environmental Law.

UK Advances Legislation for Terminally Ill Adults

Timestamp: 02:17 - 02:49

British lawmakers have given preliminary approval to a bill aimed at allowing terminally ill adults to choose the manner of their death, underlining the importance of dignity and reducing unnecessary suffering.

Notable Quotes:

“Give dying people a choice of how to die.”
— Unnamed Opponent, British Lawmakers (02:33)

Supporters, including Kim Ledbetter, emphasize the legislation's role in providing compassionate options for the terminally ill. Opponents express concerns over potential coercion of vulnerable patients and advocate for improving palliative care as a preferable alternative.

Ireland's Parliamentary Election: Key Issues and Outcomes

Timestamp: 02:49 - 03:04

Ireland is conducting a parliamentary election today, with major campaigns focused on immigration and cost of living. Current polls indicate that two center-right parties are likely to form a coalition government, agreeing to share cabinet positions and alternate the role of Prime Minister.

Wall Street Closes Higher in Shortened Session

Timestamp: 03:07 - 03:15

All major U.S. stock indexes saw gains in today’s abbreviated trading session. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 188 points, reflecting positive investor sentiment amidst ongoing economic developments.

Italy Faces Nationwide Strike Over Government Budget

Timestamp: 03:15 - 03:41

Thousands of workers in Italy initiated an eight-hour strike opposing the government's proposed budget cuts. The planned reductions target Social Security, public services, and investments, leading to significant disruptions across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and transportation. The strike also resulted in the cancellation of numerous domestic and international flights.

Notre Dame Cathedral Restoration Celebrated by French Leadership

Timestamp: 03:41 - 04:41

French President Emmanuel Macron recently toured the newly restored Notre Dame Cathedral, marking a significant milestone since the devastating fire in 2019. Eleanor Beardsley reports that the restoration project has revitalized the historic structure, with meticulous efforts to preserve its architectural integrity.

Notable Quotes:

“A hugely emotional moment to be back inside our cathedral. You have succeeded in what everyone thought was impossible.”
— President Emmanuel Macron, France (04:00)

The restoration included the removal of soot and grime, reinforcing the cathedral’s framework with 1,500 trees for the new roof, and employing over 1,200 artists and workers.

Gasoline Prices Hit Three-Year Lows for Holiday Travel

Timestamp: 04:41 - 04:58

As the holiday season approaches, the American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that gasoline prices have declined to a three-year low, averaging $3.06 per gallon nationally. With over 70 million Americans expected to travel by car during the Thanksgiving holiday, the lower fuel costs are a welcome relief for many.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now provided comprehensive coverage of significant national and international events, from economic trends and legislative developments to cultural milestones and consumer outlooks. Notable discussions included the impact of inflation on holiday spending, environmental efforts to curb plastic pollution, advancements in compassionate legislation, and the resilience of iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral.

For listeners who missed the episode, visit NPR News Now to stay updated with the latest news in just five minutes.