In a technique which could prove to be a gamechanger in monitoring biodiversity a new research shows that zoo air is now becoming an essential catalyst for DNA testing and sampling. Take a look at the next report for more details.

Zoo air becomes essential catalyst for DNA testing, sampling

In the fight against desertification, scientists in Southern Spain are employing some high-flying technology to help. The new drone tree planting project is hoping to slow advancing deserts and restore biodiversity in the region.

High-flying tree-planting project in Southern Spain to fight desertification

China has launched a multi-million dollar biodiversity fund for developing countries. The announcement came as president XI Jinping virtually addressed the COP15 biodiversity summit.

China launches its own biodiversity fund; XI Jinping won't attend COP26 summit

There is increasing concern among environmentalists that biodiversity is declining in Australia. Environmentalists have urged the Australian government to do more in order to stem a decline in biodiversity.

Xinhua news agency reports that environmental groups have urged Environment Minister Sussan Ley to make a pledge on halting biodiversity loss at the UN Biodiversity Conference.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-animal-day-2021-conservation-efforts-bring-animals-back-from-extinction-in-wild-418112">World Animal Day 2021: Conservation efforts bring animals back from extinction in wild</a>

Despite committing to a global goal of conserving at least 30 per cent of land by 2030, Australia hasn't made any specific pledges.

According to Brendan Wintle, director of the Threatened Species Recovery Hub, Australia risks becoming a "global pariah" on the issue.

As per his estimates, Australia needs to spend up to two billion ($2 billion) Australian dollars ($1.4 billion) a year to curb biodiversity loss.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wildlife-on-a-glidepath-to-mass-extinction-red-list-chief-410711">Wildlife on a glidepath to 'mass extinction': Red List chief</a>

"We can afford it, but we're not doing it, and that's on our leadership and our society," Wintle was quoted by Nine Entertainment newspapers in a report.

Over 7 million hectares of threatened species habitat have been cleared in Australia since 2000, mainly for agriculture.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/australia-13-more-species-have-now-gone-extinct-367675">Australia: 13 more species have now gone extinct</a>

Earlier this year, government officials acknowledged that 13 native Australian species, including 12 mammals, have gone extinct. Counting these species, Australia has now lost 34 mammal species.

In the view of Nat Pelle of the Australian Conservation Foundation, the country has more at stake owing to its rich biodiversity.

Watch | Gravitas: World Animal Day 2021

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-world-animal-day-2021-418259/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We should decide as a planet -- and Australia especially -- not to allow threatened species to become extinct," he said.

According to a spokesperson for Ley, the government is working on a biodiversity framework.

(With inputs from agencies)

There is increasing concern among environmentalists that biodiversity is declining in Australia. Environmentalists have urged the Australian government to do more in order to stem a decline in biodiversity.

There is increasing concern among environmentalists that biodiversity is declining in Australia. Environmentalists have urged the Australian government to do more in order to stem a decline in biodiversity. Xinhua news agency reports that environmental groups have urged Environment Minister Sussan Ley to make a pledge on halting biodiversity loss at the UN Biodiversity Conference. Also read | World Animal Day 2021: Conservation efforts bring animals back from extinction in wild Despite committing to a global goal of conserving at least 30 per cent of land by 2030, Australia hasn't made any specific pledges. According to Brendan Wintle, director of the Threatened Species Recovery Hub, Australia risks becoming a "global pariah" on the issue. As per his estimates, Australia needs to spend up to two billion ($2 billion) Australian dollars ($1.4 billion) a year to curb biodiversity loss. Also read | Wildlife on a glidepath to 'mass extinction': Red List chief "We can afford it, but we're not doing it, and that's on our leadership and our society," Wintle was quoted by Nine Entertainment newspapers in a report. Over 7 million hectares of threatened species habitat have been cleared in Australia since 2000, mainly for agriculture. Also read | Australia: 13 more species have now gone extinct Earlier this year, government officials acknowledged that 13 native Australian species, including 12 mammals, have gone extinct. Counting these species, Australia has now lost 34 mammal species. In the view of Nat Pelle of the Australian Conservation Foundation, the country has more at stake owing to its rich biodiversity. Watch | Gravitas: World Animal Day 2021 "We should decide as a planet -- and Australia especially -- not to allow threatened species to become extinct," he said. According to a spokesperson for Ley, the government is working on a biodiversity framework. (With inputs from agencies)

Environmentalists tell Australia, it 'needs more efforts to halt biodiversity decline'

A key United Nations summit to protect biodiversity has officially opened in China. It focuses on the '30 by 30 plan' on ecosystems.

UN summit to protect biodiversity opens in China

A new study has revealed that almost half of Britain’s natural biodiversity has disappeared over the centuries. Farming and urban spread triggered by the industrial and agricultural revolutions are being blamed as major factors for this loss.

Scientists at London’s Natural History Museum have revealed that the UK is one of the worst-rated nations in the world.

Professor Andy Purvis, of the museum’s life science department, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "Britain has lost more of its natural biodiversity than almost anywhere else in western Europe, the most of all the G7 nations and more than many other nations such as China."

The study will be used as a negotiator to prepare to begin online discussions for the UN biodiversity conference (Cop15) this week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-bid-to-combat-climate-impact-cut-carbon-footprint-germany-unveils-synthetic-kerosene-plant-418471">Also read |&nbsp;In a bid to combat climate impact, cut carbon footprint, Germany unveils synthetic kerosene plant</a>

These talks will then be followed by an international biodiversity summit next April in Kunming in China.&nbsp;

The aim is to establish firm goals that would end the loss of wildlife.&nbsp;

Dr Adriana De Palma, a senior researcher at the museum said that the analysis found that the UK was consistently in the bottom 10 per cent of nations in terms of biodiversity intactness. This is because the agricultural and industrial revolutions started in the UK.

Across the UK, woods and grasslands have been ripped up and fields of single crops have been planted in their place.&nbsp;

Also, more than two-thirds of the UK is now used for agriculture and 8 per cent has been built on. This leaves very little room for nature.

The world’s overall biodiversity intactness is estimated at 75 per cent. This is significantly lower than the 90 per cent average considered to be a safe limit for ensuring the planet does not fall into an ecological recession.

A new study has revealed that almost half of Britain’s natural biodiversity has disappeared over the centuries. Farming and urban spread triggered by the industrial and agricultural revolutions are being blamed as major factors for this loss.

A new study has revealed that almost half of Britain’s natural biodiversity has disappeared over the centuries. Farming and urban spread triggered by the industrial and agricultural revolutions are being blamed as major factors for this loss. Scientists at London’s Natural History Museum have revealed that the UK is one of the worst-rated nations in the world. Professor Andy Purvis, of the museum’s life science department, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "Britain has lost more of its natural biodiversity than almost anywhere else in western Europe, the most of all the G7 nations and more than many other nations such as China." The study will be used as a negotiator to prepare to begin online discussions for the UN biodiversity conference (Cop15) this week. Also read | In a bid to combat climate impact, cut carbon footprint, Germany unveils synthetic kerosene plant These talks will then be followed by an international biodiversity summit next April in Kunming in China. The aim is to establish firm goals that would end the loss of wildlife. Dr Adriana De Palma, a senior researcher at the museum said that the analysis found that the UK was consistently in the bottom 10 per cent of nations in terms of biodiversity intactness. This is because the agricultural and industrial revolutions started in the UK. Across the UK, woods and grasslands have been ripped up and fields of single crops have been planted in their place. Also, more than two-thirds of the UK is now used for agriculture and 8 per cent has been built on. This leaves very little room for nature. The world’s overall biodiversity intactness is estimated at 75 per cent. This is significantly lower than the 90 per cent average considered to be a safe limit for ensuring the planet does not fall into an ecological recession.

UK consistently in the bottom 10% of nations in biodiversity intactness

China&nbsp;will urge countries to recognise the importance of&nbsp;biodiversity&nbsp;in human health and endorse key Chinese Communist Party slogans about protecting natural ecosystems, according to a&nbsp;draft&nbsp;declaration&nbsp;submitted to the&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;this week.

China&nbsp;wants the "Kunming&nbsp;Declaration" to be agreed by all parties ahead of delayed "COP 15"&nbsp;biodiversity&nbsp;talks due to take place in October in the southwestern city of Kunming, with the aim of sealing a new global treaty.

The "zero&nbsp;draft" of the&nbsp;declaration, published on the official website of the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity on Thursday, includes the key Chinese Communist Party concept of "ecological civilisation". &nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-coronavirus-hospitalisations-hit-eight-month-high-over-100000-408696">United States coronavirus hospitalisations hit eight-month high over 100,000</a>

It also includes the formulation of "lucid water and lush mountains", first used in a 2005 speech by President Xi Jinping and included in dozens of Chinese policy documents and propaganda campaigns since he became leader in 2012.

The document also calls on parties to "mainstream"&nbsp;biodiversity&nbsp;protection in decisionmaking, and recognise the importance of conservation in protecting human health - a prominent theme among&nbsp;China's leaders in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been blamed on wildlife trading and ecosystem destruction.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-issues-draft-guidelines-for-internet-recommendation-algorithms-408694">China issues draft guidelines for internet recommendation algorithms</a>

China&nbsp;wants the international community to sign the&nbsp;declaration&nbsp;during the virtual Kunming talks on Oct. 11, with the aim of building a consensus behind a more detailed global treaty to be finalised in person next May.

Governments have been invited to give their "feedback" to the&nbsp;draft&nbsp;before Sept. 6, according to a covering letter sent to the&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;by Chinese environment minister Huang Runqiu.

"Ambition will need to be built up over the next month," said Li Shuo, senior climate advisor with the environment group Greenpeace in Beijing.

"As the technical negotiations sink deeper in the mud, the&nbsp;Declaration&nbsp;should help forge the consensus that technocrats are unable to," he added.

China will urge countries to recognise the importance of biodiversity in human health and endorse key Chinese Communist Party slogans about protecting natural ecosystems, according to a draft declaration submitted to the United Nations this week.

China will urge countries to recognise the importance of biodiversity in human health and endorse key Chinese Communist Party slogans about protecting natural ecosystems, according to a draft declaration submitted to the United Nations this week. China wants the "Kunming Declaration" to be agreed by all parties ahead of delayed "COP 15" biodiversity talks due to take place in October in the southwestern city of Kunming, with the aim of sealing a new global treaty. The "zero draft" of the declaration, published on the official website of the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity on Thursday, includes the key Chinese Communist Party concept of "ecological civilisation". ALSO READ | United States coronavirus hospitalisations hit eight-month high over 100,000 It also includes the formulation of "lucid water and lush mountains", first used in a 2005 speech by President Xi Jinping and included in dozens of Chinese policy documents and propaganda campaigns since he became leader in 2012. The document also calls on parties to "mainstream" biodiversity protection in decisionmaking, and recognise the importance of conservation in protecting human health - a prominent theme among China's leaders in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been blamed on wildlife trading and ecosystem destruction. ALSO READ | China issues draft guidelines for internet recommendation algorithms China wants the international community to sign the declaration during the virtual Kunming talks on Oct. 11, with the aim of building a consensus behind a more detailed global treaty to be finalised in person next May. Governments have been invited to give their "feedback" to the draft before Sept. 6, according to a covering letter sent to the United Nations by Chinese environment minister Huang Runqiu. "Ambition will need to be built up over the next month," said Li Shuo, senior climate advisor with the environment group Greenpeace in Beijing. "As the technical negotiations sink deeper in the mud, the Declaration should help forge the consensus that technocrats are unable to," he added.

China submits draft biodiversity declaration to United Nations

The rapidly growing population is affecting biodiversity. Humans are driving other species to extinction. How can the world tackle the biodiversity crisis? Watch 'Mission Sustainability - Population vs Planet'.

Biodiversity loss threatens Human well-being

Biodiversity boosts ecosystem. It is the key indicator of the health of an ecosystem. In this episode of Mission Sustainability, we will discuss why do we need to conserve biodiversity for our existence?

Mission Sustainability: Why do we need to conserve biodiversity for our existence?

Our planet’s biodiversity is under threat and ironically, we humans are the main offenders - the same species that depend the most on it, is behind the destruction. Slowing down biodiversity loss is perhaps one of humanity’s greatest challenges today.

The age of our planet is estimated to be 4.5 billion years, of which human beings have only existed for 200,000 years, i.e., for not even 0.5 per cent of the time and yet compared to any other species, we have had a far greater impact on our planet’s health.

In recent years, the human population has grown exponentially, yet the landmass available to us remains the same.

By some estimates in the last 50 years itself, our species population has doubled. The growing number of humans has led to a growing demand for resources, which has led to overexploitation of the earth’s natural resources. Our demands have mostly been achieved at the expense of forests, wetlands &amp; marine ecosystems worldwide.

Numerous forests have been levelled to accommodate our species’ growing population, disrupting ecosystems, and causing tremendous loss to biodiversity.

One of the primary demands, food, is behind the largest negative impact. To meet the growing demands, agricultural expansion happened, terrestrial land use was changed. &nbsp;Almost 50 per cent of the global land area is used for agriculture, causing an estimated 80 per cent extinction threat to animal and bird species.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of The United Nations, agriculture accounts for up to 80 per cent of global deforestation and is the number one cause of deforestation. But, the loss of forests happens for many purposes:

To clear space for the production of crops like wheat, maize etc.

To create a grazing pasture for animals reared to fulfil the rising demand for meat.

For logging purposes, i.e., to meet the demand for wooden products like furniture or the production of charcoal.

Forests are also cleared up for mining, as most of the precious resources like Oil, gold, diamond, copper etc are found in and around forests. Not only that, but the chemicals used in the mining process also degrade the quality of soil and ends up in water bodies, polluting them and harming the riverine ecosystems.

Forest fires. According to experts, climate change &amp; deforestation are drying out forests, making them more vulnerable to fires.

Unsustainable human activities like these are continuously degrading and destroying forests worldwide. According to World Resources Institute data, we have witnessed the loss of almost ten per cent of tree cover since the beginning of this century. In the year 2020 itself, we lost 4.2 million hectares of forest cover, i.e., area equal to the size of Netherlands, a twelve per cent jump from 2019.

By relentlessly exploiting the earth’s natural resources, we have not only wiped out forest cover globally but also choked our water bodies and in doing so we have driven many species of flora and fauna towards extinction. Excessive use of pesticides in food production, oil spills etc has not only led to soil depletion but the runoff of these artificial fertilisers from the fields has also polluted water bodies causing excessive growth of algae leading to fatal effects on aquatic life forms.

Today, with about 60 per cent of the world's major marine ecosystems being exploited unsustainably, it is estimated by the year 2100 more than half of the world's marine life forms may face extinction.

A United Nations report from 2019 suggests that an average of almost 25 per cent or around one million species from the animal &amp; plant kingdom face an extinction threat, many within decades if nothing is done to reduce the biodiversity loss.

It’s a vicious cycle, human population growth leads to a decrease in per capita income growth, which tends to lead to an increase in poverty, which is in turn linked to Poaching.

Humans have led many a glorious species to their end, one of the most shameful examples of which is the Dodo bird. A flightless bird native to Mauritius, it was discovered in 1592, and within merely seventy years it went extinct.

Another example is the Tasmanian devil, a species made popular by the cartoon Looney Toons. But do you know, due to hunting and human encroachment the species went extinct in 1936? Now, the only reminder of this large marsupial can be found in a children’s animated cartoon. &nbsp;

Illegal poaching has brought all kinds of precious wildlife to the brink of extinction. Some examples are Pangolins, Rhinoceroses, Tigers, Hawksbills turtles and many more.

Try and comprehend this, all this damage was done merely out of greed.

Rapid population growth also causes intangible damage like Climate change, which is yet another important factor behind the deteriorating biodiversity &amp; ecosystems. 
By the end of this century, World temperatures are expected to rise by 3° to 8°C, which will have a devastating impact on the planet.

Experts warn that decades of unsustainable human activities are bringing the Amazon forest a.k.a. lungs of our earth to near a tipping point. This forest’s canopy cover plays a major role in regulating the global climate, with a carbon sink capacity of around 90-140 billion metric tons. With the current deforestation trends, the release of even the smallest portion can lead to an acceleration in global warming.

Biodiversity loss also has a direct bearing on the rise of zoonotic diseases, studies suggest that around 60 per cent of the emerging diseases in humans are a result of pathogen spillovers from animals to humans.

It is important to remember that biodiversity is an important part of this planet, without which there is no future for humanity. While no one wants to imagine this planet without all the thousands of amazing life forms that make up our ecosystems, mass extinction is a very real threat. Only through sustainable living, sustainable development and sustainable population growth can we combat this threat and save our planet.

As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed.”

Our planet’s biodiversity is under threat and ironically, we humans are the main offenders - the same species that depend the most on it, is behind the destruction.

Our planet’s biodiversity is under threat and ironically, we humans are the main offenders - the same species that depend the most on it, is behind the destruction. Slowing down biodiversity loss is perhaps one of humanity’s greatest challenges today. The age of our planet is estimated to be 4.5 billion years, of which human beings have only existed for 200,000 years, i.e., for not even 0.5 per cent of the time and yet compared to any other species, we have had a far greater impact on our planet’s health. In recent years, the human population has grown exponentially, yet the landmass available to us remains the same. By some estimates in the last 50 years itself, our species population has doubled. The growing number of humans has led to a growing demand for resources, which has led to overexploitation of the earth’s natural resources. Our demands have mostly been achieved at the expense of forests, wetlands & marine ecosystems worldwide. Numerous forests have been levelled to accommodate our species’ growing population, disrupting ecosystems, and causing tremendous loss to biodiversity. One of the primary demands, food, is behind the largest negative impact. To meet the growing demands, agricultural expansion happened, terrestrial land use was changed. Almost 50 per cent of the global land area is used for agriculture, causing an estimated 80 per cent extinction threat to animal and bird species. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of The United Nations, agriculture accounts for up to 80 per cent of global deforestation and is the number one cause of deforestation. But, the loss of forests happens for many purposes: To clear space for the production of crops like wheat, maize etc. To create a grazing pasture for animals reared to fulfil the rising demand for meat. For logging purposes, i.e., to meet the demand for wooden products like furniture or the production of charcoal. Forests are also cleared up for mining, as most of the precious resources like Oil, gold, diamond, copper etc are found in and around forests. Not only that, but the chemicals used in the mining process also degrade the quality of soil and ends up in water bodies, polluting them and harming the riverine ecosystems. Forest fires. According to experts, climate change & deforestation are drying out forests, making them more vulnerable to fires. Unsustainable human activities like these are continuously degrading and destroying forests worldwide. According to World Resources Institute data, we have witnessed the loss of almost ten per cent of tree cover since the beginning of this century. In the year 2020 itself, we lost 4.2 million hectares of forest cover, i.e., area equal to the size of Netherlands, a twelve per cent jump from 2019. By relentlessly exploiting the earth’s natural resources, we have not only wiped out forest cover globally but also choked our water bodies and in doing so we have driven many species of flora and fauna towards extinction. Excessive use of pesticides in food production, oil spills etc has not only led to soil depletion but the runoff of these artificial fertilisers from the fields has also polluted water bodies causing excessive growth of algae leading to fatal effects on aquatic life forms. Today, with about 60 per cent of the world's major marine ecosystems being exploited unsustainably, it is estimated by the year 2100 more than half of the world's marine life forms may face extinction. A United Nations report from 2019 suggests that an average of almost 25 per cent or around one million species from the animal & plant kingdom face an extinction threat, many within decades if nothing is done to reduce the biodiversity loss. It’s a vicious cycle, human population growth leads to a decrease in per capita income growth, which tends to lead to an increase in poverty, which is in turn linked to Poaching. Humans have led many a glorious species to their end, one of the most shameful examples of which is the Dodo bird. A flightless bird native to Mauritius, it was discovered in 1592, and within merely seventy years it went extinct. Another example is the Tasmanian devil, a species made popular by the cartoon Looney Toons. But do you know, due to hunting and human encroachment the species went extinct in 1936? Now, the only reminder of this large marsupial can be found in a children’s animated cartoon. Illegal poaching has brought all kinds of precious wildlife to the brink of extinction. Some examples are Pangolins, Rhinoceroses, Tigers, Hawksbills turtles and many more. Try and comprehend this, all this damage was done merely out of greed. Rapid population growth also causes intangible damage like Climate change, which is yet another important factor behind the deteriorating biodiversity & ecosystems. By the end of this century, World temperatures are expected to rise by 3° to 8°C, which will have a devastating impact on the planet. Experts warn that decades of unsustainable human activities are bringing the Amazon forest a.k.a. lungs of our earth to near a tipping point. This forest’s canopy cover plays a major role in regulating the global climate, with a carbon sink capacity of around 90-140 billion metric tons. With the current deforestation trends, the release of even the smallest portion can lead to an acceleration in global warming. Biodiversity loss also has a direct bearing on the rise of zoonotic diseases, studies suggest that around 60 per cent of the emerging diseases in humans are a result of pathogen spillovers from animals to humans. It is important to remember that biodiversity is an important part of this planet, without which there is no future for humanity. While no one wants to imagine this planet without all the thousands of amazing life forms that make up our ecosystems, mass extinction is a very real threat. Only through sustainable living, sustainable development and sustainable population growth can we combat this threat and save our planet. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The world has enough for everyone's need, but not enough for everyone's greed.”

Overpopulation and human greed, the two enemies of biodiversity

Climate change activists and members of the Extinction Rebellion group took to the streets on Wednesday (November 4) to demand the protection of biodiversity.

Extinction Rebellion activists glue themselves to ground, demand biodiversity protection

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that ''biodiversity in our country is a valuable treasure for the entire humankind. We must conserve as well as explore it''.&nbsp;

Modi was addressing the nation in his&nbsp;62nd 'Mann Ki Baat' radio programme.&nbsp;

To further boost scientific temper among children and youth, one more system has been introduced. A gallery has been created there with a seating capacity of 10,000 to witness the rocket launches in front of your eyes at Sriharikota, he said about the new gallery at Sriharikota. &nbsp;

This is Modi's second address through the monthly radio programme this year.&nbsp;

Modi also spoke about Bhageerathi Amma, who lives in Kerala's Kollam in his address.&nbsp;

Amma, Modi said, had to drop out of school when she was not even 10-year-old. However, she resumed her studies at 105 years of age and cleared level 4 exams with 75 Per cent, he said.

''She is a big source of inspiration. I pay my respects to her,'' he added.

He also saluted Salman of Hamirpur village of UP's Moradabad for his courage and&nbsp;entrepreneurship in his monthly radio programme.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that ''biodiversity in our country is a valuable treasure for the entire humankind. We must conserve as well as explore it''.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that ''biodiversity in our country is a valuable treasure for the entire humankind. We must conserve as well as explore it''. Modi was addressing the nation in his 62nd 'Mann Ki Baat' radio programme. To further boost scientific temper among children and youth, one more system has been introduced. A gallery has been created there with a seating capacity of 10,000 to witness the rocket launches in front of your eyes at Sriharikota, he said about the new gallery at Sriharikota. This is Modi's second address through the monthly radio programme this year. Modi also spoke about Bhageerathi Amma, who lives in Kerala's Kollam in his address. Amma, Modi said, had to drop out of school when she was not even 10-year-old. However, she resumed her studies at 105 years of age and cleared level 4 exams with 75 Per cent, he said. ''She is a big source of inspiration. I pay my respects to her,'' he added. He also saluted Salman of Hamirpur village of UP's Moradabad for his courage and entrepreneurship in his monthly radio programme.

Mann Ki Baat: Biodiversity in our country is a valuable treasure, says PM Modi  

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-grave-of-the-fireflies-director-and-co-founder-of-studio-ghibli-isao-takahata-dies-at-82-128654">Fireflies </a>are on the verge of extinction due to loss of their natural habitat, the exposure to pesticides and artificial lights, according to the first major review of their global status.

The study was published on Monday in the journal 'Bioscience'.

More than 2,000 species of fireflies illuminate wetlands, marshes, grasslands, forests and urban parks worldwide.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-ten-years-to-save-worlds-biodiversity-from-extinction-un-274629">Only ten years to save world's biodiversity from extinction: UN</a>

Some species are being extinguished by the ever-expanding ecological footprint of human beings according to Sara Lewis, a professor of biology at Tufts University and the lead researcher of the study

These species are adversely affected by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-ten-years-to-save-worlds-biodiversity-from-extinction-un-274629">loss of habitat </a>because they need specific conditions to complete their life cycle, she added.

<img alt="A firefly display tree" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d454f28b-e990-4f0a-8ef0-9eb9eba39fc1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-02-04T120840.150.jpg" />

She gave the example of the Malaysian firefly "Pteroptyx tener"&nbsp;which during its larval phase lives in riverside mangroves.

Many of these have been sacrificed to make way for palm oil plantations and fish farms.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/climate-change-pandemics-biodiversity-loss-no-country-is-sufficiently-prepared-260057">Climate change, pandemics, biodiversity loss: No country is sufficiently prepared</a>

The female glowworms are flightless, which means that they can't fly to a new location when their habitat is taken over by a suburb, commercial crop or country road.

Surprisingly, the researchers found that the use of artificial light at night was the second most serious threat to the creatures.

Out of the 10 possible driving forces of extinction, experts said that habitat loss as the top threat everywhere except in east Asia and in South America.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-earth-experiencing-another-mass-extinction-event-267920"> Is earth experiencing another 'mass extinction event'?</a>

In those two regions, artificial light was seen as the biggest problem in the world's fireflies.

Many species of firefly depend on their ability to light up to find and attract mates.&nbsp;The window of opportunity for them to mate is very narrow as adults typically live only a few days.&nbsp;

The twinkling beetles focus so much on reproducing that they don't even eat.&nbsp;

The survey found that fireflies are also being decimated by commonly used insecticides, the third major threat.

"Organophosphates and neonicotinoids are designed to kill pests, yet they also have off-target effects on beneficial insects," the researchers wrote.

The authors said guidelines were needed to establish and manage tourist sites that outline the best way to protect the fireflies from trampling, light pollution, and pesticides.

Fireflies are on the verge of extinction due to loss of their natural habitat, the exposure to pesticides and artificial lights, according to the first major review of their global status.

Fireflies are on the verge of extinction due to loss of their natural habitat, the exposure to pesticides and artificial lights, according to the first major review of their global status. The study was published on Monday in the journal 'Bioscience'. More than 2,000 species of fireflies illuminate wetlands, marshes, grasslands, forests and urban parks worldwide. Also read: Only ten years to save world's biodiversity from extinction: UN Some species are being extinguished by the ever-expanding ecological footprint of human beings according to Sara Lewis, a professor of biology at Tufts University and the lead researcher of the study These species are adversely affected by the loss of habitat because they need specific conditions to complete their life cycle, she added. She gave the example of the Malaysian firefly "Pteroptyx tener" which during its larval phase lives in riverside mangroves. Many of these have been sacrificed to make way for palm oil plantations and fish farms. Also read: Climate change, pandemics, biodiversity loss: No country is sufficiently prepared The female glowworms are flightless, which means that they can't fly to a new location when their habitat is taken over by a suburb, commercial crop or country road. Surprisingly, the researchers found that the use of artificial light at night was the second most serious threat to the creatures. Out of the 10 possible driving forces of extinction, experts said that habitat loss as the top threat everywhere except in east Asia and in South America. Also read: Is earth experiencing another 'mass extinction event'? In those two regions, artificial light was seen as the biggest problem in the world's fireflies. Many species of firefly depend on their ability to light up to find and attract mates. The window of opportunity for them to mate is very narrow as adults typically live only a few days. The twinkling beetles focus so much on reproducing that they don't even eat. The survey found that fireflies are also being decimated by commonly used insecticides, the third major threat. "Organophosphates and neonicotinoids are designed to kill pests, yet they also have off-target effects on beneficial insects," the researchers wrote. The authors said guidelines were needed to establish and manage tourist sites that outline the best way to protect the fireflies from trampling, light pollution, and pesticides.

Fireflies on verge of extinction: Study

Pollution needs to be cut into half and approximately one-third of the Earth needs to be protected by 2030 to save our biodiversity according to the <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-becomes-fourth-nation-to-pay-un-dues-on-time-world-body-thanks-new-delhi-273780">UN</a> Convention on Biological Diversity.

A draft plan was released by the UN agency this week, according to which the wildlife needs to be saved from mass extinction in the coming decades.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/un-warns-of-much-extreme-weather-ahead-after-hottest-decade-on-record-274499">UN warns of 'much extreme weather' after hottest decade on record</a>

Similar targets were set by the convention in 2010, at a summit in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rights-group-denounces-japan-envoy-for-disturbing-comments-on-myanmar-rohingya-274443">Japan</a>.

But almost all of the countries failed to meet these goals due to which they are now facing unparalleled extinction rates, the imperilled ecosystems and the deplorable condition of human survival.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions/climate-change-pandemics-biodiversity-loss-no-country-is-sufficiently-prepared-260057">Climate change, pandemics, biodiversity loss: No country is sufficiently prepared</a>

It warns that 1 million out of the 8 million species are already facing extinction and many others will be obliterated in the coming decade if necessary steps are not taken.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/species-saving-galapagos-giant-tortoise-diego-can-take-a-rest-274201">Biodiversity</a> is fundamental to the well-being of human beings and is crucial for a healthy planet.

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The purpose of the framework is 'to galvanize urgent and transformative action by governments and all of society, both global and local'.

The aim of the convention is the stabilization of the fragile biodiversity by 2030 and the recovery of ecosystems by 2050.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/pm-modi-invites-global-investors-to-benefit-from-indias-start-up-ecosystem-258695">&nbsp;PM Modi invites global investors to benefit from India's start-up ecosystem</a>

For the achievement of this target, the draft has laid 20 targets for the next decade.

One of these includes giving 'protected status' to biologically significant sites and to cover at least 30 per cent of them by 2030.

At least 10 per cent of these sites will be placed under ''strictly protected''.

Another target is to reduce <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-leads-world-in-pollution-linked-deaths-study-269127">pollution </a>from plastic wastes, biocides and excess nutrients around 50 per cent.

A crucial target presented by it also includes ascertaining that the trade of every wild species is legitimate and sustainable to bring greater sustainability to the sectors of the economy and to ensure the inclusivity of indigenous communities in it.

Pollution needs to be cut into half and approximately one-third of the Earth needs to be protected by 2030 to save our biodiversity according to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.

Pollution needs to be cut into half and approximately one-third of the Earth needs to be protected by 2030 to save our biodiversity according to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. A draft plan was released by the UN agency this week, according to which the wildlife needs to be saved from mass extinction in the coming decades. Also read: UN warns of 'much extreme weather' after hottest decade on record Similar targets were set by the convention in 2010, at a summit in Japan. But almost all of the countries failed to meet these goals due to which they are now facing unparalleled extinction rates, the imperilled ecosystems and the deplorable condition of human survival. Also read: Climate change, pandemics, biodiversity loss: No country is sufficiently prepared It warns that 1 million out of the 8 million species are already facing extinction and many others will be obliterated in the coming decade if necessary steps are not taken. Biodiversity is fundamental to the well-being of human beings and is crucial for a healthy planet. × The purpose of the framework is 'to galvanize urgent and transformative action by governments and all of society, both global and local'. The aim of the convention is the stabilization of the fragile biodiversity by 2030 and the recovery of ecosystems by 2050. Also read: PM Modi invites global investors to benefit from India's start-up ecosystem For the achievement of this target, the draft has laid 20 targets for the next decade. One of these includes giving 'protected status' to biologically significant sites and to cover at least 30 per cent of them by 2030. At least 10 per cent of these sites will be placed under ''strictly protected''. Another target is to reduce pollution from plastic wastes, biocides and excess nutrients around 50 per cent. A crucial target presented by it also includes ascertaining that the trade of every wild species is legitimate and sustainable to bring greater sustainability to the sectors of the economy and to ensure the inclusivity of indigenous communities in it.

Only ten years to save world's biodiversity from extinction: UN

The United Nations issued its first comprehensive global scientific report on biodiversity, which explored the threat of extinction for Earth's plants and animals.Watch full video to know more.

Nature is in its worst shape in human history: UN report

Revamping global food production, retooling the financial sector, moving beyond GDP as a measure of progress and other "transformative changes" are needed to save nature and ourselves, a major UN biodiversity report is set to conclude.

Delegates from 130 nations wrap up week-long negotiations in Paris Saturday on the executive summary of a 1,800-page tome authored by 400 scientists, the first UN global assessment of the state of nature -- and its impact on humanity -- in 15 years.

The bombshell Summary for Policymakers, to be unveiled on May 6, makes for very grim reading.

Up to a million of Earth's estimated eight million species face extinction, many of them within decades, according to a draft version obtained by AFP.&nbsp;

All but seven per cent of major marine fish stocks are in decline or exploited to the limit of sustainability. At the same time, humanity dumps up to 400 million tonnes of heavy metals, toxic sludge and other waste into oceans and rivers each year.

Since 1990, Earth has lost 2.9 million hectares -- an area more than eight times the size of Germany or Vietnam -- of forests that play a critical role in absorbing record-level CO2 emissions.

The heavily negotiated text does not make explicit policy recommendations, but will serve "as a basis for redefining our objectives" ahead of a key meeting of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity in China next Fall, said Yunne Jai Shin, a researcher at the Research Institute for Development in Marseilles.

But the pressure to set clear targets -- similar to the cap on global warming in the 2015 climate treaty inked in the French capital -- has sparked calls for a "Paris moment" on biodiversity.

'Harmful subsidies'

The new report details how humans are undermining Earth's capacity to produce fresh water, clean air and productive soil, to name a few "ecosystem services".

The direct causes of nature's degradation -- in order of importance -- are shrinking habitat and land-use change, hunting for food or illicit trade in body parts, climate change, pollution, and predatory or disease-carrying alien species such as rats, mosquitoes and snakes.

"There are also two big indirect drivers of biodiversity loss and climate change -- the number of people in the world and their growing ability to consume," Robert Watson, chair of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), told AFP ahead of the meeting.

The way humanity produces, distributes and consumes food -&nbsp;accounting for a third of land, 75 per cent of freshwater use and a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions -- is especially destructive, the report shows.

Fertiliser use, which degrades the soil's ability to grow plants and absorb CO2, has risen four-fold in just 13 years in Asia, and doubled worldwide since 1990.

"Feeding the world in a sustainable manner entails the transformation of food systems," the report notes.

Local food production, less demand for meat, fewer chemical inputs, use of renewable power, sustainable limits for fisheries, a sharp decline in tropical deforestation -- all are feasible and would help restore nature.

The report also spotlights "harmful subsidies" that encourage environmentally damaging fishing, agriculture, livestock raising, forestry and mining.&nbsp;

A downward spiral&nbsp;

The report cites estimates that tax havens finance about 70 per cent of vessels implicated in unregulated fishing and an equal share of the soy and beef sectors that are ravaging the Amazon.

The summary for policymakers maps out what Watson calls "several plausible futures," some inviting, others less so.

One labelled "economic optimism" sees burgeoning international trade unfettered by regulation. Population growth slows, but per capita consumption is high, leading to more climate change and pollution.&nbsp;

A "reformed markets" variant would feature more policies aimed at poverty alleviation and protecting the environment, but consumer demand remains high if more equally distributed.

"Global sustainable development" would see politicians and the public prioritise environmental issues and strict regulations. Policies and education promote low population growth, sustainable production and a concept of progress based on well-being, not just gross domestic product (GDP). People eat a lot less meat, and energy consumption declines.&nbsp;

"All variations of this archetype are beneficial for biodiversity," the underlying report says.

In a kindred world, international institutions weaken, but regional ones pick up the slack toward the same ends.

Finally, the last two scenarios -- "business-as-usual" and "regional competition" -- plunge the planet into a nightmarish, downward spiral of conflict, growing inequality and continuing degradation of nature.

Revamping global food production, retooling the financial sector, moving beyond GDP as a measure of progress and other "transformative changes" are needed to save nature and ourselves, a major UN biodiversity report is set to conclude.

Revamping global food production, retooling the financial sector, moving beyond GDP as a measure of progress and other "transformative changes" are needed to save nature and ourselves, a major UN biodiversity report is set to conclude. Delegates from 130 nations wrap up week-long negotiations in Paris Saturday on the executive summary of a 1,800-page tome authored by 400 scientists, the first UN global assessment of the state of nature -- and its impact on humanity -- in 15 years. The bombshell Summary for Policymakers, to be unveiled on May 6, makes for very grim reading. Up to a million of Earth's estimated eight million species face extinction, many of them within decades, according to a draft version obtained by AFP. All but seven per cent of major marine fish stocks are in decline or exploited to the limit of sustainability. At the same time, humanity dumps up to 400 million tonnes of heavy metals, toxic sludge and other waste into oceans and rivers each year. Since 1990, Earth has lost 2.9 million hectares -- an area more than eight times the size of Germany or Vietnam -- of forests that play a critical role in absorbing record-level CO2 emissions. The heavily negotiated text does not make explicit policy recommendations, but will serve "as a basis for redefining our objectives" ahead of a key meeting of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity in China next Fall, said Yunne Jai Shin, a researcher at the Research Institute for Development in Marseilles. But the pressure to set clear targets -- similar to the cap on global warming in the 2015 climate treaty inked in the French capital -- has sparked calls for a "Paris moment" on biodiversity. 'Harmful subsidies' The new report details how humans are undermining Earth's capacity to produce fresh water, clean air and productive soil, to name a few "ecosystem services". The direct causes of nature's degradation -- in order of importance -- are shrinking habitat and land-use change, hunting for food or illicit trade in body parts, climate change, pollution, and predatory or disease-carrying alien species such as rats, mosquitoes and snakes. "There are also two big indirect drivers of biodiversity loss and climate change -- the number of people in the world and their growing ability to consume," Robert Watson, chair of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), told AFP ahead of the meeting. The way humanity produces, distributes and consumes food - accounting for a third of land, 75 per cent of freshwater use and a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions -- is especially destructive, the report shows. Fertiliser use, which degrades the soil's ability to grow plants and absorb CO2, has risen four-fold in just 13 years in Asia, and doubled worldwide since 1990. "Feeding the world in a sustainable manner entails the transformation of food systems," the report notes. Local food production, less demand for meat, fewer chemical inputs, use of renewable power, sustainable limits for fisheries, a sharp decline in tropical deforestation -- all are feasible and would help restore nature. The report also spotlights "harmful subsidies" that encourage environmentally damaging fishing, agriculture, livestock raising, forestry and mining. A downward spiral The report cites estimates that tax havens finance about 70 per cent of vessels implicated in unregulated fishing and an equal share of the soy and beef sectors that are ravaging the Amazon. The summary for policymakers maps out what Watson calls "several plausible futures," some inviting, others less so. One labelled "economic optimism" sees burgeoning international trade unfettered by regulation. Population growth slows, but per capita consumption is high, leading to more climate change and pollution. A "reformed markets" variant would feature more policies aimed at poverty alleviation and protecting the environment, but consumer demand remains high if more equally distributed. "Global sustainable development" would see politicians and the public prioritise environmental issues and strict regulations. Policies and education promote low population growth, sustainable production and a concept of progress based on well-being, not just gross domestic product (GDP). People eat a lot less meat, and energy consumption declines. "All variations of this archetype are beneficial for biodiversity," the underlying report says. In a kindred world, international institutions weaken, but regional ones pick up the slack toward the same ends. Finally, the last two scenarios -- "business-as-usual" and "regional competition" -- plunge the planet into a nightmarish, downward spiral of conflict, growing inequality and continuing degradation of nature.

'Move beyond GDP,' suggests UN report to fix nature and avoid human misery

A rare 'Dumbo' octopus was spotted by scientists during a deep-sea research dive done by their unmanned robotic submersible off the coast of California.

Scientists from the non-profit Ocean Exploration Trust were exploring a region near an underwater volcano when the octopod measuring approximately 60 centimetres (23 inches) drifted past the camera of their research vessel E/V Nautilus.

The sea creature is so named because its flapping fins on the side of its head that resemble the famous Disney character.

Also called an umbrella octopus, it lives on the ocean floor at depths of 9,000-13,000 feet (2.7-4 km), according to the Tree of Life Project, an online website researching biodiversity.

A rare 'Dumbo' octopus was spotted by scientists during a deep-sea research dive done by their unmanned robotic submersible off the coast of California. Scientists from the non-profit Ocean Exploration Trust were exploring a region near an underwater volcano when the octopod measuring approximately 60 centimetres (23 inches) drifted past the camera of their research vessel E/V Nautilus.

A rare 'Dumbo' octopus was spotted by scientists during a deep-sea research dive done by their unmanned robotic submersible off the coast of California. Scientists from the non-profit Ocean Exploration Trust were exploring a region near an underwater volcano when the octopod measuring approximately 60 centimetres (23 inches) drifted past the camera of their research vessel E/V Nautilus. The sea creature is so named because its flapping fins on the side of its head that resemble the famous Disney character. Also called an umbrella octopus, it lives on the ocean floor at depths of 9,000-13,000 feet (2.7-4 km), according to the Tree of Life Project, an online website researching biodiversity.

Watch: Rare 'Dumbo' octopus seen in California deep-sea dive

A heartbreaking video is recently doing rounds on social media showing devastating impact of deforestation in Indonesia.

A video showing an orangutan trying to fight with bulldozer pulling down trees as the ape attempts to save his habitat.&nbsp

According to reports, the video was filmed in 2013 was released on an environmental day. It was shot in West Borneo by the animal welfare organisation, International Animal Rescue.&nbsp

The 30-seconds video posted on Facebook by International Animal Rescue shows a distressed orangutan trying to fight with a bulldozer that is felling trees.&nbsp

"This desperate frantically seeking refuge from the destructive power of the bulldozer a machine that has already decimated everything else around him," International Animal rescue wrote in a video caption.

The Facebook further informs that the two members of the rescue team of International Animal Rescue who was present at the site managed to rescue orangutan. &nbsp

"Despite all the obstacles thrown at them, our team were able to rescue this orangutan and bring him to safety," International Animal rescue wrote.

Scenes like this have become more and more frequent in Indonesia. Indonesia forests are home to over 1000 orangutans and the deforestation has caused the population of orangutans to plummet habitats are destroyed and orangutans are left to starve and die.

Indonesia is home to some of the most biologically diverse forests in the world and ranks third in the number of species behind Brazil and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In a plea urging people to plant more trees, the animal welfare organisation further wrote, "We need to ACT NOW. This World Environment Day, plant a tree and help us rebuild and protect precious orangutan habitat. The situation is critical, and we are running out of time."&nbsp

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According to reports, the video was filmed in 2013 was released on an environmental day. It was shot in West Borneo by the animal welfare organisation, International Animal Rescue

A heartbreaking video is recently doing rounds on social media showing devastating impact of deforestation in Indonesia. A video showing an orangutan trying to fight with bulldozer pulling down trees as the ape attempts to save his habitat. According to reports, the video was filmed in 2013 was released on an environmental day. It was shot in West Borneo by the animal welfare organisation, International Animal Rescue. The 30-seconds video posted on Facebook by International Animal Rescue shows a distressed orangutan trying to fight with a bulldozer that is felling trees. "This desperate frantically seeking refuge from the destructive power of the bulldozer a machine that has already decimated everything else around him," International Animal rescue wrote in a video caption. The Facebook further informs that the two members of the rescue team of International Animal Rescue who was present at the site managed to rescue orangutan. "Despite all the obstacles thrown at them, our team were able to rescue this orangutan and bring him to safety," International Animal rescue wrote. Scenes like this have become more and more frequent in Indonesia. Indonesia forests are home to over 1000 orangutans and the deforestation has caused the population of orangutans to plummet habitats are destroyed and orangutans are left to starve and die. Indonesia is home to some of the most biologically diverse forests in the world and ranks third in the number of species behind Brazil and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a plea urging people to plant more trees, the animal welfare organisation further wrote, "We need to ACT NOW. This World Environment Day, plant a tree and help us rebuild and protect precious orangutan habitat. The situation is critical, and we are running out of time." ×

Watch: Heartbreaking viral video shows Orangutan trying to save its home in Indonesia

China's hydro ambitions are on the verge of killing Mekong River, says a report.

A report published by the Lowy Institute says that biodiversity and precious resources of the Mekong are increasingly under danger because of the rush to construct dams on one of the world's great rivers.

The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia and offers a glimpse into the long history and diverse cultures of the region. The 12th longest river in the world and the 7th longest in Asia, it flows through six countries: China, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

"A total of 11 mainstream dams and 120 dams on tributaries are planned, which scientists warn will imperil the already fragile river system. Recent studies call for a suspension and review of future projects," says the report authored by Tom Fawthrop.

It also cites a joint report by UNESCO and the Stockholm Environment Institute as saying that if all the dams proposed for the Lower Mekong Basin are developed, including the planned or ongoing 11 mainstream dams, it could prevent up to 94 per cent of the river's sediment load from being transported further downstream.

Sediment is critical to the health of the river and essential for replenishing fish life.

The Mekong ranks as one of the world's most productive inland fisheries. Its basin banks support a population of 60 million Thai, Laotians, Cambodians, and Vietnamese.

Fawthrop in his report titled 'Mekong: more dams, more damage' says that "the UNESCO report has warned that Chinese dams built on the upper sections, known as Lancang, have caused a 70 per cent reduction in sediment, which will adversely impact fisheries and rice production in Cambodia and Vietnam".

Few countries in the world are more dependent on fish consumption than Cambodia, where fish provide 80 per cent of the population's annual protein intake and account for approximately 12 per cent of GDP.

The Lowy Institute article says that scientific reports warning about the Mekong crisis have had little impact so far on regional policymakers, energy ministers, economists, and Chinese hydropower companies.

"These powers are so totally immersed in infrastructure development, energy supply, and GDP growth that they appear scarcely aware of (or perhaps just don't care about) the other side of the growth equation.&nbsp;

There is no social audit for the economic value of the erosion and loss of precious natural resources," says the article.

A study "Economic Evaluation of Hydropower Projects in the Lower Mekong Basin" says that if all 11 dams go ahead, the economy of the lower Mekong will be set back a staggering 7.3 billion US dollars over the next fifty years.

Fawthrop concludes his article by saying that since the alternative sources of energy are readily available, the call for a moratorium on dam-building is clearly the least risky policy option and the only way to protect both the fisheries and the riparian peoples of the Mekong.

A report published by the Lowy Institute says that biodiversity and precious resources of the Mekong are increasingly under danger because of the rush to construct dams

China's hydro ambitions are on the verge of killing Mekong River, says a report. A report published by the Lowy Institute says that biodiversity and precious resources of the Mekong are increasingly under danger because of the rush to construct dams on one of the world's great rivers. The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia and offers a glimpse into the long history and diverse cultures of the region. The 12th longest river in the world and the 7th longest in Asia, it flows through six countries: China, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. "A total of 11 mainstream dams and 120 dams on tributaries are planned, which scientists warn will imperil the already fragile river system. Recent studies call for a suspension and review of future projects," says the report authored by Tom Fawthrop. It also cites a joint report by UNESCO and the Stockholm Environment Institute as saying that if all the dams proposed for the Lower Mekong Basin are developed, including the planned or ongoing 11 mainstream dams, it could prevent up to 94 per cent of the river's sediment load from being transported further downstream. Sediment is critical to the health of the river and essential for replenishing fish life. The Mekong ranks as one of the world's most productive inland fisheries. Its basin banks support a population of 60 million Thai, Laotians, Cambodians, and Vietnamese. Fawthrop in his report titled 'Mekong: more dams, more damage' says that "the UNESCO report has warned that Chinese dams built on the upper sections, known as Lancang, have caused a 70 per cent reduction in sediment, which will adversely impact fisheries and rice production in Cambodia and Vietnam". Few countries in the world are more dependent on fish consumption than Cambodia, where fish provide 80 per cent of the population's annual protein intake and account for approximately 12 per cent of GDP. The Lowy Institute article says that scientific reports warning about the Mekong crisis have had little impact so far on regional policymakers, energy ministers, economists, and Chinese hydropower companies. "These powers are so totally immersed in infrastructure development, energy supply, and GDP growth that they appear scarcely aware of (or perhaps just don't care about) the other side of the growth equation. There is no social audit for the economic value of the erosion and loss of precious natural resources," says the article. A study "Economic Evaluation of Hydropower Projects in the Lower Mekong Basin" says that if all 11 dams go ahead, the economy of the lower Mekong will be set back a staggering 7.3 billion US dollars over the next fifty years. Fawthrop concludes his article by saying that since the alternative sources of energy are readily available, the call for a moratorium on dam-building is clearly the least risky policy option and the only way to protect both the fisheries and the riparian peoples of the Mekong.

China's ambitions are killing the Mekong River

As wetlands disappear so does biodiversity. It is crucial to conserve wetlands amid changing social and political climates

The Ramsar Convention defines wetlands as: “areas of marsh, fen, peatland, or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing fresh, brackish, or salt, including marine waters, the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres.” Wetlands often occur in disconnected patches, and therefore wildlife species associated with them are also fairly disconnected, except for their occasional migration. As the number of wetlands in a large area decrease, each wetland gets more isolated from any other. What does this mean for wildlife dependent on these wetlands? Aquatic animals have specific adaptations which limit them from moving between wetlands, especially if they are disconnected. This movement between sites in search of food and mates is called dispersal, and seasonal, periodic dispersals are termed as “migration”. Studies have found that frogs, salamanders, reptiles like freshwater turtles and small mammals cannot disperse if wetlands are spaced more than half a kilometre apart. Therefore, saving these populations from extinction is not as simple as just preserving the quality of one single wetland. This is what makes life in wetland ecosystems so vulnerable to extinction. Let me explain what this means with an example from the lives of some wetland birds. Birds often travel between wetlands to fulfil their requirements, as one wetland does not necessarily provide all the needs of these birds. A single wetland may provide avenues for feeding or roosting or breeding opportunities — rarely all. This makes it necessary for a bird to use different types of wetlands to meet its ecological requirements. Studies have found that birds are more attracted to wetlands in agricultural and forested landscapes than where there is urban sprawl. (WION) × Therefore, to sustain populations of these birds in a landscape, a complex of wetlands is required. That is, "good" quality wetlands of varying shapes and sizes, not very far from each other. Alas! If maintaining such sites isn’t a challenging enough conservation task, there are more complications — the landscape context being the most challenging factor. For many wetland-dependent species, it has been found that they use wetlands that are embedded in “friendly” landscapes. Again, because my subject familiarity is mostly with wetland birds, I’ll illustrate what this means by drawing another example from this group. Studies have found that birds are more attracted to wetlands in agricultural and forested landscapes than where there is urban sprawl. And, if you look closer, they are even sensitive to the kind of agricultural landscape surrounding these wetlands. Studies have found that paddy cultivation is a more “friendly” landscape for wetland birds as compared to sugarcane or soy cultivation, owing to their structural similarity with natural wetlands. At a finer resolution, we would probably find differences in bird use even in different paddy patches, depending on their cropping patterns, use of pesticides and so on. These aspects illustrate the complexities of wetland biodiversity conservation and the commitment required in doing so. Conserving wetlands in changing social, political and climate scenarios There has been considerable basic biological study of wetland birds, to inform broad-scale conservation action. However, let us look at the social, economic and climatic context that these wetlands are embedded in. They are one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, and apart from harbouring biodiversity, provide a number of ecosystem goods and services to people. An environmental economics approach has valued wetlands at US $14,785 ha-1 year-1 which is higher than even those of the most valuable terrestrial ecosystems, such as forests valued at US$ 969 ha-1 year-1. While these estimates are fairly coarse, there is enough evidence to show how valuable wetlands are. For instance, they provide protection during flooding events and cyclones. And in acknowledgement of this role, World Wetlands Day 2017 has been themed, “Wetlands for disaster risk reduction”, emphasising the role of wetlands in disaster risk management. They also provide water security by facilitating groundwater recharge. Apart from this, they are valued by humans for a number of utilitarian reasons such as catching wild fish, aquaculture, grazing livestock, agriculture, soil extraction, plant extraction, et cetera. Wetlands are valued by humans for a number of utilitarian reasons such as catching wild fish, aquaculture, grazing livestock, agriculture, soil extraction, plant extraction, etc. (WION) × For example, the fish catch of India’s Chilika lake, a Ramsar site, for the year 2009-10 was estimated to be about 12000 metric tonnes, and supported more than 200,000 fishermen, whereas Vembanad Kol Wetland in Kerala supports livelihoods of around 1.6 million people living in 38 gram panchayats. However, in spite of playing such important roles, they are one of the most threatened ecosystems in the world. The main threat being their conversion to agriculture, dredging and overexploitation by humans. Studies have estimated that 30 per cent to 90 per cent wetlands have been either lost or severely modified, with very little abatement to this trend. In the current scenario, the new Draft Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2016 in India does not make provisions that can actually help save wetland species from the brink of extinction. This is because it does not prioritise wetland conservation based on any technicalities related to hydrology, size, cultural uniqueness, biodiversity value, etc. It should be criticised even more for not including the participation of local communities who depend on these resources, and for having no provisions to ensure water and food security, or risk aversion, in the light of climate change. As we lose wetlands, we will not only lose biodiversity but all the wonderful ecosystem services that are associated with them. So save them. (WION)

Wetland loss: Many unexpected repercussions in a fast-changing world

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