Author: Injusticeto Team
The UN biodiversity conference in Rome focuses on funding to preserve plant and animal life on Earth, following the COP16 talks in Colombia. There is a push to raise more money and distribute it effectively. The goal is to secure $20 billion annually by 2025 and $30 billion by 2030. However, only $383 million has been pledged so far. The conference addresses the importance of protecting biodiversity in the face of climate change and the declining global wildlife populations. Participants aim to address issues like deforestation and its widespread impacts. Source link
ClientEarth demands action from Poland to stop import of sanctioned Myanmar teak, violating EU sanctions and Timber Regulations. Poland imported $11.5 million of teak between 2021-2024, risking deforestation in Myanmar and supporting the military junta. ClientEarth urges Polish authorities to crack down on illegal timber trade and comply with upcoming EU Deforestation Regulation. Delayed implementation of regulations allows illegal timber to flow into Europe through Poland, prompting calls for stronger enforcement measures. Poland, as current European Council chair, faces heightened scrutiny to address timber industry issues. Source link
Greenpeace Australia Pacific criticizes Woodside’s annual earnings announcement, citing a 115% increase in profits to AUD$3.57 billion in 2024, as detrimental to Australian communities and nature. The organization highlights the impact of extreme weather disasters and calls for accountability from fossil fuel corporations like Woodside. Greenpeace advocates for renewable energy solutions and urges for policies to make polluters pay for climate destruction. Similar measures are gaining momentum globally, with governments in New York and Vermont introducing legislation to hold fossil fuel companies accountable. Source link
Wildlife drownings in water canals for irrigation are a global issue, affecting countries like Argentina, Mexico, Spain, Portugal, and the U.S. Threatened species are particularly impacted, with hundreds of animals dying in these structures. Lack of awareness and research exacerbate the problem, leading to biodiversity loss and habitat fragmentation. Proposed solutions include covering canals, installing escape ramps, and implementing country-specific mitigation strategies to balance irrigation needs with wildlife conservation. Source link
Germany’s federal elections saw the CDU win 28% of the vote, likely securing Friedrich Merz as the next chancellor. The far-right AfD gained support, with mainstream parties echoing anti-migrant rhetoric. Parties focused on this issue, neglecting climate, poverty, and corporate accountability. The CDU plans to abolish supply chain laws and suspend EU regulations. Merz pledged support for Ukraine but indicated a double standard by inviting Netanyahu without arresting him. The new government must prioritize human rights both domestically and internationally. Source link
Residents of Djeno, Republic of Congo, have long complained about pollution from the oil terminal operated by TotalEnergies EP Congo. Despite evidence of pollution and health effects, TotalEnergies had its contract renewed. The environment ministry has now prohibited toxic gas emissions and polluting substance discharge. TotalEnergies claims to have taken steps to mitigate pollution, but concerns remain about the impact on biodiversity and health in the region. There are also questions about the neutrality of environmental audits and the effects of flaring on the environment and human health. Source link
Baja California Sur leads Mexico in foreign tourism investment, but rapid development threatens protected areas and traditional communities. Hotel projects risk environmental damage and cultural loss, prompting concerns from activists. Eco-tourism models in coastal villages face scrutiny as residents regret sacrificing customs for tourism. Projects like the Kuni megaproject in Balandra Protected Natural Area have sparked controversy, with environmental groups calling for public consultation to address environmental concerns. Developers have withdrawn some projects due to environmental impact concerns, but new projects continue to pose threats to ecosystems and local communities. Source link
Brazil’s President Lula is pushing for approval of oil drilling in the Amazon River mouth, despite the environmental risks and lack of technology to control potential leaks. The project contradicts Brazil’s national interest and economic logic, with extraction likely to continue for decades past the need for fossil fuels. The project also poses serious environmental risks, with potential spills impacting eight countries and unique ecosystems. Lula’s stance on fossil fuels jeopardizes Brazil’s opportunity to lead in combating climate change. Source link
Climate change and rising temperatures threaten cacao production worldwide, impacting major producers like Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. A study suggests low-cost solutions to support natural pollination, boosting cacao yields by 20%. Methods include increasing leaf litter for insect pollinators, planting taller shade trees, and limiting agrochemical use, with nearby natural forests further aiding farm productivity. The research emphasizes the importance of natural pollination for farm output and highlights the negative impact of rising temperatures on cacao yields. These findings offer hope for farmers to increase productivity and resilience in the face of climate change. Source link
A French researcher, Laurent Vinatier, was upheld a three-year prison sentence in Russia for gathering information on the Russian military and violating the “foreign agent” law. France condemned the sentence as arbitrary and demanded his immediate release. Vinatier works for a Swiss conflict mediation NGO and claims he was unaware of the registration requirement. Tensions between Western countries and Russia remain high, with several Westerners being detained during the Ukraine conflict. France and the US have called for Vinatier’s release and criticized Russia’s human rights violations. Source link