This weekly round-up highlights notable developments in nature and climate from the past week.
1. Study Examines Impact of Developed Nations on Biodiversity Loss
A recent study published in Nature by Princeton University researchers suggests that developed nations contribute significantly to biodiversity loss in other countries through agricultural imports. The study found that some nations impact biodiversity internationally at a rate 15 times higher than within their own borders.
Researchers analyzed the effects of 24 nations on over 7,500 forest-dependent species by integrating economic trade data, satellite-based deforestation maps, and species distribution information from 2001 to 2015.
Lead researcher Alex Wiebe stated that by combining satellite imagery with economic and biodiversity data, the study provides a clearer understanding of how trade influences species worldwide. Co-author Professor David Wilcove emphasized the importance of collaboration between importing and exporting nations to promote sustainable trade and habitat conservation.
2. U.S. Executive Order on Paper Straws
U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order prohibiting the federal use of paper straws, according to a report by the BBC. The order reverses a previous policy under the Biden administration that encouraged the use of paper straws to reduce plastic waste.
3. Other Notable Nature and Climate Updates
- Peatland Protection: Only 17% of the worldâs peatlands are located within protected areas, despite storing approximately 600 billion tonnes of carbonâmore than all forest biomass combinedâaccording to a study in Conservation Letters.
- Wildfire Relief Efforts: Over $250 million has been raised through GoFundMe for wildfire victims in Los Angeles, surpassing fundraising totals for all other natural disasters on the platform last year, reports The Guardian.
- Wildfire Suppression and Pollution: Research published by the American Chemical Society indicates that fire retardants used in Los Angeles wildfires contain heavy metal levels significantly above drinking water limits.
- Colombiaâs Deforestation Decline: Deforestation in Colombia has reached its lowest level in 23 years, according to Environment Minister Susana Muhamad, as reported by Reuters.
- Cacao Production and Climate Change: Rising temperatures linked to climate change are affecting cacao-producing regions in West Africa, which account for approximately 70% of global production. A study by Climate Central suggests this could impact chocolate prices and local economies.
- Brazil Heatwave and School Closures: Schools in southern Brazil have postponed reopening due to extreme heat, citing insufficient ventilation and water access.
- Norwayâs Hydropower Decision: Norwayâs parliament has voted to allow hydropower development on protected rivers under specific conditions. While proponents highlight potential societal benefits, environmental groups have raised concerns over the ecological impact, The Guardian reports.
4. Climate Investment in Africa
A new initiative launched by the World Economic Forum and the Global Center on Adaptation aims to increase private investment in climate adaptation efforts in Africa. The platform has already secured a $1 billion commitment, highlighting a $3 trillion investment opportunity in climate solutions across the continent.
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