Author: Injusticeto Team

Colombian lawmakers are considering a bill to improve traceability in the cattle industry to combat illegal deforestation linked to grazing pasture. The bill aims to enhance monitoring systems and establish high-surveillance zones in deforested areas. With around 30 million cattle in the country, the industry is a significant contributor to deforestation. If passed, the law would require ranchers to share cattle registration information and install identification devices. This new regulation seeks to address the structural causes of deforestation and protect Colombia’s unique parks. Source link

The Sagarnath Forest Development Project in Nepal introduced eucalyptus as a solution for deforestation, but it led to soil depletion, crop damage, and financial losses for farmers. The project’s failure highlights the importance of considering ecological sustainability and informed decision-making in reforestation efforts. Large-scale exotic tree plantations are now prohibited under national and international biodiversity laws. Experts emphasize the need to prioritize native species for reforestation to avoid negative ecological and social impacts. Source link

Nina Raj, a docent at the Eaton Canyon Nature Center and founder of the Altadena Seed Library, prioritized saving seeds during the Eaton Fire in Southern California. While her home was spared, the fire devastated Altadena, killing 17 and destroying over 9,400 structures. Raj’s seed library aims to regrow the community with native plants and urban green spaces. Similar efforts in Paradise, California, and Lahaina, Hawaii, offer inspiration for responsible reseeding post-fire. Altadena residents are receiving seed donations to remediate soil and rebuild a fire-resilient landscape. Source link

In Philadelphia, the Wingohocking Creek used to flow through Germantown, but now it’s paved over as a sewer. Maura Jarvis of the U.S. Water Alliance explains that during heavy rain, the system gets overwhelmed, causing flooding in streets and basements. Climate change exacerbates the issue. The Waterway Arts Initiative educates residents about the problem through exhibits and art installations at The Water Shed. This helps residents understand and engage with solutions as the city works to address urban flooding. Source link

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) faced opposition from major coffee companies, delaying its implementation until 2025. The coffee industry contributes to deforestation, child labor, and slavery, particularly in Brazil, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Compliance costs are minimal, and coffee supply chains are simpler than other regulated commodities. The industry must take responsibility without burdening vulnerable farmers and workers. Despite industry resistance, the EUDR was upheld by MPs and EU member states in December 2024. The coffee sector needs to prioritize EUDR compliance to address deforestation and human rights abuses effectively. Source link

Severe flooding in eastern Kentucky has left communities devastated, with over 100 rescues in Pike County alone. The record-setting winter flood, fueled by climate change, has highlighted the need for improved flood adaptation measures. Rural communities are at high risk, facing isolation due to landslides and inundated roads. Local volunteers are stepping up to provide aid, showcasing the importance of mutual aid networks in disaster relief efforts. The experience has prepared residents to face future disasters with strength and solidarity, emphasizing the need for proactive preparation and community support. Source link

Singaporeans lost a record $822 million to scams last year, with cryptocurrency schemes making up almost a quarter of the losses. The total amount lost to scams increased by 70.6% from the previous year, with e-commerce scams being the most numerous. The majority of cases saw losses of less than $3,700, but a small number of cases accounted for a significant portion of the total losses. The police were able to recover more than $136 million. A new law was passed in January to allow the freezing of bank accounts to prevent further losses. Source link

A recent study in the high Andes of Peru found that vicuñas, wild relatives of llamas, establish communal latrines in barren areas left by melted glaciers. These latrines are rich in nutrients, moisture, and microorganisms, helping plants colonize faster. With Peru losing glaciers rapidly, this process could provide refuge for plant species moving uphill due to climate change. The study suggests that vicuñas’ behavior could speed up ecosystem development by up to a century. However, challenges like glacier loss and sarcoptic mange outbreaks in vicuña populations must be addressed for long-term conservation benefits. Source link

Pangolins, important insectivorous mammals, are ecosystem engineers that help restore biodiversity in burned forests with their burrowing activities. A study in China found that areas with pangolin burrows had higher plant and animal species richness and diversity, demonstrating their role in accelerating ecosystem recovery. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect pangolins and reintroduce them into the wild to support ecosystem health. The research highlights the potential of pangolins to aid in landscape regeneration, especially in the face of increasing forest fires due to climate change. Source link

Scott, a Scottish businessman, was found dead in Kenya after disappearing while attending a conference at the JW Marriott Hotel in Nairobi. He was a senior director at Fico and his body was identified by local police. Colleagues described him as a leader in the international Scores business, with a legacy of expanding markets and partnerships. The UK Foreign Office has been contacted for further information. Source link