Month: February 2001

Report blames intensive olive oil production for desertification

Intensive olive oil production has damaged the environment and led to widespread desertification says a new report prepared for the European Commission.

Russian soil quality so poor that it can barely sustain the population

According to news reports, the fertility of Russian soil has decreased so “catastrophically” that the nation can hardly meet its agricultural needs.

Protected German wetland to be partially filled

Ramsar, the intergovernmental body for the conservation of wetlands, has struck out at a government-backed plan to eliminate 20% of a protected site.

Marine scientists call for fishing ban in 20% of global seas

One hundred and fifty of the world’s leading marine scientists have called for the creation of specially protected marine parks covering as much as 20% of the Earth’s seas, in an attempt to halt alarming decreases in stocks.

Conservation group launches recycling scheme for printer cartridges

WWF UK has launched a collection and recycling service for ink-jet and toner cartridge users.

Canada announces new funds to meet air quality commitments

The Government of Canada will invest $120.2 million (US$79 million) in new measures on clean air in an attempt to accelerate action on ambitious targets.

Living near areas of pesticides use may boost foetal death due to birth defects

A new study by the US University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) indicates that living close to areas where agricultural pesticides are applied may boost the risk of foetal death due to birth defects by up to 120%.

Controversial US dams violate Clean Water Act

A federal district court has ruled that the US government’s operation of four dams on the lower Snake River violates the Clean Water Act, proving that that the dams raise water temperatures and dissolved nitrogen above mandatory water quality standards.

Climate change could affect every area on Earth

Around the world, climate change will continue to affect both man and nature increasing threats to species and to human livelihoods, throughout the twenty first century, according to the second part of a major report by international climate change experts.