Climate Update: Key Environmental News
This news roundup covers urgent environmental issues, including coral reefs reaching a critical tipping point, debates over category 6 hurricanes, and record-high global coal production.
Extinction Rates Show Signs of Slowing
Over the past 200 years, human activity has caused unprecedented rates of plant and animal extinction. However, recent research suggests that extinction rates are now decelerating, signaling a possible shift in this trend.
Category 6 Hurricanes and Liquid Air Innovations
Scientists are discussing the existence and implications of category 6 hurricanes, while advancements in liquid air technologies gain attention as part of climate solutions.
Environmental Focus Ahead of COP30
The 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) is about to begin in Belém, Brazil, with plans for live coverage. The event will highlight the challenges and strategies of climate-vulnerable countries like the Philippines, where landscape architects are preparing for future disasters.
Challenges for Climate Activists at COP30
With limited hotel availability in Belém, questions arise about the participation of climate activists at COP30; several groups share their plans regarding attendance.
Reconsidering Global Subsidies
Governments worldwide spend approximately USD 2.6 trillion annually on subsidies that harm the environment. Redirecting these funds toward sustainable initiatives could significantly improve global health and ecology.
Human-Wildlife Conflict in Sierra Leone
In Sierra Leone, food scarcity is driving chimpanzees to raid crops, leading to conflict with local farmers.
"We’re now sending out our top feature story every week. This week, we explore how landscape architects in the Philippines are preparing for tomorrow’s disasters."
Author's summary: Recent studies show extinction rates slowing; COP30 in Brazil will spotlight climate action and challenges, while global coal use hits new highs amid ongoing environmental pressures.