Author: Injusticeto Team

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

Thermal drones have been found to be effective in spotting tree kangaroos in the tall rainforest trees of New Guinea and Australia. A study led by Ph.D. student Emmeline Norris used thermal drones to detect six Bennett’s tree kangaroos without disturbing them. This method is more efficient than traditional ground surveys and could be useful for studying other species like Lumholtz’s tree kangaroos. The main challenge is the limited availability of tall cranes for flying the drones, but alternative solutions are being considered for future research. Source link

Indonesia’s decision to resume sea sand exports in 2023 has led to a surge in unauthorized seabed dredging, raising environmental concerns and exposing weak marine law enforcement. While officials argue that dredging helps ocean health, experts and activists warn of the negative impact on marine conservation efforts. Dredging threatens mangroves, coral reefs, and fish populations, with projected losses to fishing communities outweighing state revenue and corporate profits. Experts recommend reinstating the export ban, conducting environmental impact assessments, and allocating funds for ecological restoration and affected communities. Source link

Human Rights Watch calls on the EU and Frontex to prioritize saving lives at sea in the Mediterranean, where over 400 people have died or gone missing in the past three months. The organization highlights the brutal treatment of migrants in Libya and criticizes EU support for Libyan forces. MSF’s rescue ship, Geo Barents, faced challenges rescuing migrants, leading to its detention in Italy. HRW urges Frontex to improve search and rescue efforts and issue emergency alerts for distress cases. The EU must uphold its values and humanity by ensuring safe rescue and disembarkation. Source link

A rare black seadevil anglerfish emerged from the deep sea to capture the world’s attention, inspiring art and becoming an internet sensation. However, the threat of deep sea mining looms, with companies planning to mine the ocean floor for metals and minerals as early as 2025. This destructive industry could drive species to extinction and damage the deep-sea environment, home to unique creatures like the anglerfish. Urgent action is needed to protect the deep sea by calling for a moratorium on deep sea mining. Source link

The Sudan Shield Forces, fighting alongside the Sudanese Armed Forces, deliberately targeted civilians in an attack on January 10. This attack in Gezira state resulted in at least 26 deaths and war crimes, with looting and property destruction. Human Rights Watch calls for an urgent investigation and accountability for those responsible, including the commanders of the Sudan Shield Forces. The attack is part of a surge in violence by SAF-aligned groups and militias and highlights the need for international support to protect civilians in Sudan. Source link

The Balbina hydroelectric dam in the Brazilian Amazon caused the extinction of seven endemic fish species in the Uatumã River due to habitat transformation. Researchers suggest exploring unaffected tributaries for potential species refuge. The study highlights the broader threat of hydropower dams, industrial fishing, and climate change on Amazonian fish populations. The dam’s impact on indigenous livelihoods and the environment has been recognized, prompting calls for conservation efforts and alternative energy sources. Source link

A Tennessee man, Sean Williams, received a 95-year prison sentence for producing child sex abuse images and escaping from custody. Williams, described as an unrepentant sexual predator, faced allegations of drugging and assaulting women. The city of Johnson City settled a lawsuit for $28 million with women who accused police of mishandling sexual assault reports against Williams. Williams was found with drugs, money, and child sexual abuse images, and faces charges in multiple jurisdictions. Other lawsuits against the city and police officers are ongoing. Source link