Air pollution is a silent crisis that affects millions globally, causing severe health issues and premature deaths. According to the WHO, it's responsible for around 7 million deaths annually. The Global South bears the brunt of this crisis, with regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East experiencing hazardous air quality. Greenpeace East Asia's Clean Air Unit is highlighting the severity of this issue and encouraging collective action to combat it.
Source: https://www.greenpeace.org/international/story/69277/the-silent-crisis-of-air-pollution/
Breakthrough in nuclear fusion research holds promise for medical imaging, waste management, and energy solutions. Scientists at Focused Energy are developing a laser-driven neutron source that can accelerate particles to high velocities, enabling the creation of gamma rays and muons. This technology has potential applications in cancer treatment, structural inspection, and nuclear waste management.
California faces an insurance crisis following devastating wildfires, with many residents struggling to rebuild due to unaffordable premiums. In response, the state's insurance commissioner has proposed reforms aimed at stabilizing the system and encouraging insurers to write coverage in high-risk areas.
Conservation group releases video showing logging near endangered greater gliders. The Queensland government is considering a proposal to establish the Greater Glider Forest park, which would include parts of St Mary state forest. However, logging activities have been spotted in the area, less than 3km from a high-density population group of endangered greater gliders.
Rare harmony found between raven and peregrine on Isle of Wight beach. Two species, once declining due to persecution and pesticide use, now coexist peacefully. Peregrines can be seen soaring and diving for fun, while ravens enjoy the secluded spot. A welcome example of comparative success in avian conservation.
As Scotland prepares for the "Glorious Twelfth" (August 12), marking the start of the grouse shooting season, wildlife campaigners are calling for tougher policing of Scottish grouse moors. For the first time, grouse moors must hold a licence under new powers aimed at reducing the unlawful killing of birds of prey by gamekeepers. While some see this as an opportunity to improve conservation practices, others argue that the new rules do not go far enough and advocate for more comprehensive measures.
Elon Musk's recent political statements have raised concerns about their impact on Tesla's brand reputation. While some customers are upset by his views, others appreciate his willingness to speak out. The company has sold 23,000 cars in the UK in the first half of this year and relies heavily on social media for marketing.
A recent article highlights the decline in wasp numbers, sparking concerns about their role in the environment. While often viewed as pests, wasps are fascinating creatures that play important roles as natural pest controllers, pollinators, and decomposers. Scientists warn that their decline could have significant implications for ecosystems.
Are you considering building an ecohome? Start by doing your research, taking your time, and prioritizing passive improvements. Expert advice from Richard Keech, owner of a highly efficient period home, highlights the importance of understanding energy efficiency options. His top tips include immersing yourself in the topic, consulting widely, and prioritizing thermal envelope upgrades. For those new to eco-building, community-run earth building projects can be a great starting point.
Brazilian Amazon deforestation and fires have increased significantly, according to data from the Brazilian National Institute for Space Research (INPE). In July 2024, 666 km² of deforestation was recorded, a 33.2% increase from the previous year. Additionally, fire hotspots in the region saw a 98% increase compared to July 2023. These findings serve as a warning ahead of the Amazon's dry season.
Concerns have been raised about the quality of garden soil products in Australia, with some consumers finding unexpected contaminants. Glass, plastic, roof insulation, and oyster shells are just a few examples of debris found in top dressing and potting mix products. While regulations differ by state, experts say poor labeling and lack of transparency make it difficult to trace contamination sources.
The importance of preserving biodiversity cannot be overstated, especially in today's climate crisis. Indigenous Peoples have long been recognized as guardians of the Earth's natural resources. From resisting deforestation to fighting for their land rights, they are crucial in protecting our planet.
In Brazil, studies show that Indigenous territories had significantly lower deforestation rates compared to unprotected areas of the Amazon. In South Africa, the amaMpondo community and others successfully protested against Shell's plans to conduct seismic blasting on the Wild Coast.
Around the world, Indigenous Peoples are leading efforts to protect their lands and cultures. Despite facing numerous threats, they continue to fight for environmental justice and climate action.
Victoria's Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has launched a compliance campaign to investigate potential risks from recycled soil fill, following revelations of asbestos contamination in similar products in NSW. The campaign will focus on inspecting facilities that produce cheap landscaping soil, also known as "recovered fines". This move comes after the Guardian Australia investigation exposed widespread breaches of regulations by producers of recovered fines in NSW, resulting in potentially contaminated products being distributed across the state.
Devastating wildfires in Brazil's Pantanal wetland have burned 440,000 hectares, killing millions of animals and countless plants. Scientists attribute the extreme fire weather conditions to climate disruption caused by fossil fuel use and deforestation. The study suggests that without human-caused climate change, such severe weather would be rare.
Unprecedented flooding hits Alaska capital Juneau, leaving at least 100 homes damaged. The flooding occurred when a nearby glacier retreated, creating a basin that fills with rainwater and snowmelt each summer. The water then forces its way under or around the ice dam created by the Mendenhall Glacier, entering Mendenhall Lake and eventually reaching the Mendenhall River.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/aug/08/alaska-capital-flooding-retreating-glacier