A new report by oil change international raises concerns about the sincerity of major oil companies' climate pledges. The research finds that plans from eight of the world's largest oil and gas producers are insufficient to meet the critical goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees celsius.

Oil giants’ climate pledges fall short | WION Climate Tracker

The UN maritime court has ruled in favour of nine small island states that, brought a case to seek increased protection of the world's oceans from catastrophic climate change.

Court: Nations obliged to protect Oceans

More than half of the world’s Mangrove ecosystems are at risk of collapse. And this according to the first global mangrove assessment of the International Union for conservation of nature's red list of ecosystems.

Mangroves threatened by deforestation & climate change | WION Climate Tracker

Recent years have seen major oil companies making big climate pledges. However, a new report from Oil Change International suggests these are nothing but empty promises.&nbsp;

The report examined climate plans from the eight largest US and European-based oil and gas producers and found that none of them were in line with limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;

<h2>Which companies did the report evaluate?</h2>

BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Eni, Equinor, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies are the companies.

For its report, Oil Change International assessed the companies' plans on 10 criteria. It found that all eight big oil companies ranked as "grossly insufficient" or "insufficient" on nearly all criteria, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-isnt-real-ron-desantis-erases-mentions-of-climate-change-from-florida-law-721915">'Climate change isn't real': Ron DeSantis erases mentions of climate change from Florida law</a>

US firms Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and ExxonMobil were the "worst of the worst" and ranked "grossly insufficient" on all 10 of the criteria.&nbsp;

In a statement, Allie Rosenbluth, US programme manager at Oil Change International, said, "American fossil-fuel corporations are the worst of the worst."

The report has been endorsed by over 100 climate groups internationally and marks the fourth annual "Big Oil Reality Check" from Oil Change International.

<h2>Increasing global warming</h2>

In a statement, David Tong, co-author of the analysis, and global industry campaign manager at Oil Change International, said: "There is no evidence that big oil and gas companies are acting seriously to be part of the energy transition."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-we-already-lost-the-battle-april-continues-damning-11-month-trend-emerges-as-hottest-since-1940-719261">Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940</a>

What more? The report also found that instead of limiting global warming, these companies' current oil and gas extraction plans could actually lead to more than 2.4°C of global temperature rise.

As per the report, the eight oil companies alone are on track to use 30 per cent&nbsp;of the world's remaining global carbon budget — to keep the global average temperature rise to 1.5C.

The report criticised the companies for their lack of ambition to curb fossil fuel exploration and production. None have plans to stop fossil fuel exploration or halt new extraction projects. In fact, six of the eight companies have explicit goals to increase oil and gas production.

Additionally, the report found that the companies' methods to curb greenhouse gas emissions lack integrity. None set comprehensive targets to rapidly and consistently curb emissions, and all plan to rely on methods like carbon capture and storage, which do not yet exist at scale, and carbon offsetting.

All eight firms also failed to "meet basic criteria for just transition plans for workers and communities where they operate," and none met "basic" human rights criteria.

(With inputs from agencies)

Recent years have seen major oil companies making big climate pledges. However, a new report from Oil Change International suggests these are nothing but empty promises.

Recent years have seen major oil companies making big climate pledges. However, a new report from Oil Change International suggests these are nothing but empty promises. The report examined climate plans from the eight largest US and European-based oil and gas producers and found that none of them were in line with limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Which companies did the report evaluate? BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Eni, Equinor, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies are the companies. For its report, Oil Change International assessed the companies' plans on 10 criteria. It found that all eight big oil companies ranked as "grossly insufficient" or "insufficient" on nearly all criteria, reports The Guardian. Also read | 'Climate change isn't real': Ron DeSantis erases mentions of climate change from Florida law US firms Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and ExxonMobil were the "worst of the worst" and ranked "grossly insufficient" on all 10 of the criteria. In a statement, Allie Rosenbluth, US programme manager at Oil Change International, said, "American fossil-fuel corporations are the worst of the worst." The report has been endorsed by over 100 climate groups internationally and marks the fourth annual "Big Oil Reality Check" from Oil Change International. Increasing global warming In a statement, David Tong, co-author of the analysis, and global industry campaign manager at Oil Change International, said: "There is no evidence that big oil and gas companies are acting seriously to be part of the energy transition." Also read | Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 What more? The report also found that instead of limiting global warming, these companies' current oil and gas extraction plans could actually lead to more than 2.4°C of global temperature rise. As per the report, the eight oil companies alone are on track to use 30 per cent of the world's remaining global carbon budget — to keep the global average temperature rise to 1.5C. The report criticised the companies for their lack of ambition to curb fossil fuel exploration and production. None have plans to stop fossil fuel exploration or halt new extraction projects. In fact, six of the eight companies have explicit goals to increase oil and gas production. Additionally, the report found that the companies' methods to curb greenhouse gas emissions lack integrity. None set comprehensive targets to rapidly and consistently curb emissions, and all plan to rely on methods like carbon capture and storage, which do not yet exist at scale, and carbon offsetting. All eight firms also failed to "meet basic criteria for just transition plans for workers and communities where they operate," and none met "basic" human rights criteria. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Reality Check’: Damning report finds big oil firms’ climate plans could increase global warming by 2.4°C

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Howler monkeys are dying in Mexico, and officials announced on Monday (May 20) that they are probing whether the extreme heat is responsible for the deaths of these endangered species. The Environment Ministry indicated that possible causes being examined include "heat stroke, dehydration, malnutrition, or pesticide fumigation of crops."

They also mentioned that investigations would be conducted to rule out the presence of a virus or disease.

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Temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) have been documented in the southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco, where the deaths of the howler monkeys have occurred.

Although the government did not specify the number of primates that have died, the Tabasco-based wildlife preservation group COBIUS reported "mass deaths."

"It's very likely due to climatic reasons but we cannot rule out other important causes," it said in a statement.

"If you see monkeys that are weak and apparently suffering from heat or dehydration, please try to hoist a bucket of water by rope for them to drink," it added.

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Temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) have been documented in the southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco, where the deaths of the howler monkeys have occurred.

Although the government did not specify the number of primates that have died, the Tabasco-based wildlife preservation group COBIUS reported "mass deaths."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-capital-swelters-at-474-degrees-celsius-imd-issues-red-alert-for-next-five-days-723741">Also read | India's capital swelters at 47.4 degrees Celsius, IMD issues 'red alert' for next five days</a>

<h2>Over 40% of land vertebrates at risk from extreme heat </h2>

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New research has warned that by the end of the century, over 40 per cent of land vertebrates will be threatened by extreme heat if high emissions continue, with rare, extreme temperatures becoming common.

Also watch | US: Thousands sweltering in heat without power in Texas

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-thousands-sweltering-in-heat-without-power-in-texas-723452/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The study indicates that reptiles, birds, amphibians, and mammals are increasingly facing extreme heat events in terms of frequency, duration, and intensity due to human-induced global warming.

According to the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-05606-z">paper published in Nature</a>, under a high emissions scenario leading to 4.4°C warming, 41 per cent of land vertebrates will encounter extreme thermal events by 2099.

(With inputs from agencies)
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Howler monkeys are dying in Mexico, and officials announced on Monday (May 20) that they are probing whether the extreme heat is responsible for the deaths of these endangered species.

Howler monkeys are dying in Mexico, and officials announced on Monday (May 20) that they are probing whether the extreme heat is responsible for the deaths of these endangered species. The Environment Ministry indicated that possible causes being examined include "heat stroke, dehydration, malnutrition, or pesticide fumigation of crops." They also mentioned that investigations would be conducted to rule out the presence of a virus or disease. Temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) have been documented in the southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco, where the deaths of the howler monkeys have occurred. Although the government did not specify the number of primates that have died, the Tabasco-based wildlife preservation group COBIUS reported "mass deaths." "It's very likely due to climatic reasons but we cannot rule out other important causes," it said in a statement. "If you see monkeys that are weak and apparently suffering from heat or dehydration, please try to hoist a bucket of water by rope for them to drink," it added. Temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) have been documented in the southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco, where the deaths of the howler monkeys have occurred. Although the government did not specify the number of primates that have died, the Tabasco-based wildlife preservation group COBIUS reported "mass deaths." Also read | India's capital swelters at 47.4 degrees Celsius, IMD issues 'red alert' for next five days Over 40% of land vertebrates at risk from extreme heat New research has warned that by the end of the century, over 40 per cent of land vertebrates will be threatened by extreme heat if high emissions continue, with rare, extreme temperatures becoming common. Also watch | US: Thousands sweltering in heat without power in Texas The study indicates that reptiles, birds, amphibians, and mammals are increasingly facing extreme heat events in terms of frequency, duration, and intensity due to human-induced global warming. According to the paper published in Nature, under a high emissions scenario leading to 4.4°C warming, 41 per cent of land vertebrates will encounter extreme thermal events by 2099. (With inputs from agencies)

Extreme heat causes howler monkeys to 'drop dead' in Mexico

Record low levels of sea ice around Antarctica last year could be linked to climate change. This is according to a study by, researchers at the British Antarctic survey.

Global warming worsened loss of sea ice | WION Climate Tracker

A majority of Indians think the government should ramp up efforts on climate action and this is according to a new report from the Yale program on climate change communication.

85% indians say climate change affecting them: Survey

Our conventional wisdom says all dinosaurs were cold-blooded.&nbsp;However, a new study has challenged this long-held notion, implying that they may have evolved themselves to become warm-blooded to overcome climate challenges.

<h2>The new theory</h2>

As per the new theory, increased volcanic activity may have driven mercury upwards in the Early Jurassic period. Over the period, this led to the extinction of various plant species. This climate emergency gave rise to&nbsp;various&nbsp;new groups of dinosaurs.&nbsp;

Scientists say this may have led to endothermy among dinosaurs, which means the ability to generate heat inside the body, a feature of mammals and birds.

Endothermy allowed dinosaurs to move to colder regions and survive there.&nbsp;

“Our analyses show that different climate preferences emerged among the main dinosaur groups around the time of the Jenkyns event 183 million years ago,” explained study lead author Dr Alfio Alessandro Chiarenza of UCL Earth Sciences.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiW0Y3kxpmGAxUnzTgGHRJcDY4QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-juno-mission-captures-reddest-object-in-solar-system-721222" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-juno-mission-captures-reddest-object-in-solar-system-721222&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiW0Y3kxpmGAxUnzTgGHRJcDY4QxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">NASA’s Juno mission captures reddest object in solar system</a>

“The adoption of endothermy, perhaps a result of this environmental crisis, may have enabled theropods and ornithischians to thrive in colder environments.”

<h2>Which groups first embraced endothermy?</h2>

It&nbsp;is speculated&nbsp;that Theropods, the group that includes the iconic T. rex and Velociraptor, and ornithischians, which include relatives of the plant-eating Stegosaurus and Triceratops, were the first ones to adopt the new ability to generate heat inside their bodies.

“Theropods also include birds and our study suggests that birds’ unique temperature regulation may have had its origin in this Early Jurassic epoch,” noted co-author Dr. Sara Varela of the Universidade de Vigo.

The new ability thus gave them a significant edge over their cold-blooded counterparts.

<h2>Some questions still unanswered</h2>

The new theory provides exciting insights into the evolution of warm-blooded traits in dinosaurs, but&nbsp;many questions remain unanswered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiW0Y3kxpmGAxUnzTgGHRJcDY4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/practice-makes-a-person-almost-perfect-science-confirms-722093" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/practice-makes-a-person-almost-perfect-science-confirms-722093&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiW0Y3kxpmGAxUnzTgGHRJcDY4QxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Practice makes a person almost perfect, science confirms</a>

It is still&nbsp;not clear&nbsp;how the new ability developed over time and what other factors may have contributed to its development.

As scientists further dive into the details of dinosaur evolution, one fact remains clear: these ancient beings were significantly more intricate and captivating than previously believed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Our conventional wisdom says all dinosaurs were cold-blooded. However, a new study has challenged this long-held notion, implying that they may have evolved themselves to become warm-blooded to overcome climate challenges.

Our conventional wisdom says all dinosaurs were cold-blooded. However, a new study has challenged this long-held notion, implying that they may have evolved themselves to become warm-blooded to overcome climate challenges. The new theory As per the new theory, increased volcanic activity may have driven mercury upwards in the Early Jurassic period. Over the period, this led to the extinction of various plant species. This climate emergency gave rise to various new groups of dinosaurs. Scientists say this may have led to endothermy among dinosaurs, which means the ability to generate heat inside the body, a feature of mammals and birds. Endothermy allowed dinosaurs to move to colder regions and survive there. “Our analyses show that different climate preferences emerged among the main dinosaur groups around the time of the Jenkyns event 183 million years ago,” explained study lead author Dr Alfio Alessandro Chiarenza of UCL Earth Sciences. Also read: NASA’s Juno mission captures reddest object in solar system “The adoption of endothermy, perhaps a result of this environmental crisis, may have enabled theropods and ornithischians to thrive in colder environments.” Which groups first embraced endothermy? It is speculated that Theropods, the group that includes the iconic T. rex and Velociraptor, and ornithischians, which include relatives of the plant-eating Stegosaurus and Triceratops, were the first ones to adopt the new ability to generate heat inside their bodies. “Theropods also include birds and our study suggests that birds’ unique temperature regulation may have had its origin in this Early Jurassic epoch,” noted co-author Dr. Sara Varela of the Universidade de Vigo. The new ability thus gave them a significant edge over their cold-blooded counterparts. Some questions still unanswered The new theory provides exciting insights into the evolution of warm-blooded traits in dinosaurs, but many questions remain unanswered. Also read: Practice makes a person almost perfect, science confirms It is still not clear how the new ability developed over time and what other factors may have contributed to its development. As scientists further dive into the details of dinosaur evolution, one fact remains clear: these ancient beings were significantly more intricate and captivating than previously believed. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate change may have forced some dinosaur groups to become warm-blooded: Study

Florida no longer considers Climate Change a priority. Defying "Radical green zealots," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday (May 15) signed a new legislation that will see Climate Change disappear from state statutes.

The legislation, which is set to take effect from July 1, will also see a ban on power-generating wind turbines offshore or near the state's lengthy coastline.

Critics of the legislation, as per the news agency AP, say that the measure ignores the reality of climate change threats in Florida. This includes projections of rising seas, extreme heat and flooding, and increasingly severe storms.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-we-already-lost-the-battle-april-continues-damning-11-month-trend-emerges-as-hottest-since-1940-719261">Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940</a>

<h2>'Radical green zealots'</h2>

On X, DeSantis said, "Florida rejects the designs of the left to weaken our energy grid, pursue a radical climate agenda, and promote foreign adversaries."

"We're restoring sanity in our approach to energy and rejecting the agenda of the radical green zealots," he added.

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Florida rejects the designs of the left to weaken our energy grid, pursue a radical climate agenda, and promote foreign adversaries. <a href="https://t.co/Drydhd7XcH">pic.twitter.com/Drydhd7XcH</a>
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<h2>The new Florida legislation</h2>

Starting July 1, the measure, as per a news release from the Florida governor's office, would also boost expansion of natural gas, reduce regulations on gas pipelines in the state and increase protections against bans on gas appliances such as stoves.

The legislation will erase several instances of the word "climate change" from state statutes. Additionally, it removes over 50 lines specifically related to addressing the matter of climate change from the state law, which were enacted in 2008 during the tenure of the-then Republican Governor Charlie Crist.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/years-long-chill-to-end-ron-desantis-and-donald-trump-hold-private-talks-in-miami-716178">Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami</a>

The sections of the existing law that will be erased include a provision for addressing the "potential of global climate change" as a state energy policy, and a provision for the state to "play a leading role in developing and implementing energy management programs aimed at promoting energy conservation, energy security, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions."

It also removes provisions mandating that state agencies shall hold meetings and conferences only in hotels or conference facilities that have received the "Green Lodging" designation from the Department of Environmental Protection "for best practices in water, energy, and waste efficiency standards, unless the responsible state agency head makes a determination that no other viable alternative exists."

As per a legislative analysis of the bill as published on the Florida Gov website, the priority is to ensure "an adequate, reliable and cost-effective supply of energy for the state in a manner that promotes the health and welfare of the public and economic growth".

(With inputs from agencies)

Florida no longer considers Climate Change a priority. Defying "Radical green zealots," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday (May 15) signed a new legislation that will see Climate Change disappear from state statutes.

Florida no longer considers Climate Change a priority. Defying "Radical green zealots," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday (May 15) signed a new legislation that will see Climate Change disappear from state statutes. The legislation, which is set to take effect from July 1, will also see a ban on power-generating wind turbines offshore or near the state's lengthy coastline. Critics of the legislation, as per the news agency AP, say that the measure ignores the reality of climate change threats in Florida. This includes projections of rising seas, extreme heat and flooding, and increasingly severe storms. Also read | Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 'Radical green zealots' On X, DeSantis said, "Florida rejects the designs of the left to weaken our energy grid, pursue a radical climate agenda, and promote foreign adversaries." "We're restoring sanity in our approach to energy and rejecting the agenda of the radical green zealots," he added. Florida rejects the designs of the left to weaken our energy grid, pursue a radical climate agenda, and promote foreign adversaries. pic.twitter.com/Drydhd7XcH — Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) May 15, 2024 × The new Florida legislation Starting July 1, the measure, as per a news release from the Florida governor's office, would also boost expansion of natural gas, reduce regulations on gas pipelines in the state and increase protections against bans on gas appliances such as stoves. The legislation will erase several instances of the word "climate change" from state statutes. Additionally, it removes over 50 lines specifically related to addressing the matter of climate change from the state law, which were enacted in 2008 during the tenure of the-then Republican Governor Charlie Crist. Also read | Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami The sections of the existing law that will be erased include a provision for addressing the "potential of global climate change" as a state energy policy, and a provision for the state to "play a leading role in developing and implementing energy management programs aimed at promoting energy conservation, energy security, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions." It also removes provisions mandating that state agencies shall hold meetings and conferences only in hotels or conference facilities that have received the "Green Lodging" designation from the Department of Environmental Protection "for best practices in water, energy, and waste efficiency standards, unless the responsible state agency head makes a determination that no other viable alternative exists." As per a legislative analysis of the bill as published on the Florida Gov website, the priority is to ensure "an adequate, reliable and cost-effective supply of energy for the state in a manner that promotes the health and welfare of the public and economic growth". (With inputs from agencies)

'Climate change isn't real': Ron DeSantis erases mentions of climate change from Florida law

Rising sea levels threaten Thailand's capital, Bangkok, with relocation, according to a senior official from the country's climate change office.

The low-lying Bangkok risks being submersed by the ocean before the end of the century, according to the projections. The bustling capital already battles flooding during the rainy season.

The city might not be able to adapt with the world on its current warming pathway, warned Pavich Kesavawong, deputy director-general of the government's department of climate change and environment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-found-new-earth-sized-planet-where-days-and-nights-are-never-ending-721791">Astronomers found new Earth-sized planet where days and nights are never-ending</a>

"I believe we are beyond the 1.5 degrees Celsius already," Kesavawong told AFP, referring to the increase in global temperatures from pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;

"Now we have to think about adaptation. I suppose Bangkok will be under water, if we stay in our (current) circumstance," he further said.

Bangkok is considering building sea walls, similar to those in the Netherlands, to combat rising waters. However, relocation of the city is also being discussed, according to a government official.&nbsp;

Kesavawong emphasised that these talks are still in the early stages and that moving the capital would be a very complex undertaking.

"Personally I think it's a good choice, so we can separate the capital, the government areas, and business areas," he added.

"Bangkok would still be the government capital, but will move the business,” Kesavawong&nbsp;further said.

<h2>Climate impacts</h2>

Indonesia is another country facing a similar situation. It will&nbsp;inaugurate its new capital Nusantara this year, which will replace sinking Jakarta as the country's political centre.

Thailand is suffering the effects of climate change as farmers struggle&nbsp;with high temperature and drought, while tourism is affected by coral bleaching and pollution.

It has closed several national parks in response to recent coral bleaching while further closures are possible.

Despite government efforts, including new clean air legislation and increased fire prevention measures in national parks, air pollution, especially in northern Thailand, remains a significant challenge.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-love-in-the-times-of-ai-your-digital-avatar-might-soon-go-out-on-dates-for-you-721735">Love in the times of AI: Your digital avatar might soon go out on dates for you</a>

"The agriculture sector is very challenging for us," Pavich said, referring to continued post-harvest burning that is a major contributor to seasonal haze.

He added that the legislation, which includes provisions on everything from carbon pricing to mitigation and adaptation measures, is likely to pass into law this year.

Thailand is targeting carbon neutrality by 2050, and net-zero by 2065.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rising sea levels threaten Thailand's capital, Bangkok, with relocation, according to a senior official from the country's climate change office. The low-lying Bangkok risks being submersed by the ocean before the end of the century, according to the projections.

Rising sea levels threaten Thailand's capital, Bangkok, with relocation, according to a senior official from the country's climate change office. The low-lying Bangkok risks being submersed by the ocean before the end of the century, according to the projections. The bustling capital already battles flooding during the rainy season. The city might not be able to adapt with the world on its current warming pathway, warned Pavich Kesavawong, deputy director-general of the government's department of climate change and environment. Also read: Astronomers found new Earth-sized planet where days and nights are never-ending "I believe we are beyond the 1.5 degrees Celsius already," Kesavawong told AFP, referring to the increase in global temperatures from pre-industrial levels. "Now we have to think about adaptation. I suppose Bangkok will be under water, if we stay in our (current) circumstance," he further said. Bangkok is considering building sea walls, similar to those in the Netherlands, to combat rising waters. However, relocation of the city is also being discussed, according to a government official. Kesavawong emphasised that these talks are still in the early stages and that moving the capital would be a very complex undertaking. "Personally I think it's a good choice, so we can separate the capital, the government areas, and business areas," he added. "Bangkok would still be the government capital, but will move the business,” Kesavawong further said. Climate impacts Indonesia is another country facing a similar situation. It will inaugurate its new capital Nusantara this year, which will replace sinking Jakarta as the country's political centre. Thailand is suffering the effects of climate change as farmers struggle with high temperature and drought, while tourism is affected by coral bleaching and pollution. It has closed several national parks in response to recent coral bleaching while further closures are possible. Despite government efforts, including new clean air legislation and increased fire prevention measures in national parks, air pollution, especially in northern Thailand, remains a significant challenge. Also read: Love in the times of AI: Your digital avatar might soon go out on dates for you "The agriculture sector is very challenging for us," Pavich said, referring to continued post-harvest burning that is a major contributor to seasonal haze. He added that the legislation, which includes provisions on everything from carbon pricing to mitigation and adaptation measures, is likely to pass into law this year. Thailand is targeting carbon neutrality by 2050, and net-zero by 2065. (With inputs from agencies)

This country may need to relocate its capital due to rising sea levels

Climate Change can threaten our homes but as per a new research, extreme weather can also harm our brain health, making disorders like anxiety and depression worse.

Researchers from University College London, as per a study published in Lancet Neurology, have found a concerning&nbsp;link between environmental changes and neurological health.

<h2>What is the correlation?</h2>

Researchers analysed the impact of extreme weather on 19 nervous system conditions, including stroke, Alzheimer’s, meningitis, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. They also looked at psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia.

They discovered that there was a "clear evidence for an impact of the climate on some brain conditions, especially stroke and infections of the nervous system".

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"The climatic variation that was shown to have an effect on brain diseases included extremes of temperature, both low and high, and greater temperature variation throughout the course of day, especially when these measures were seasonally unusual," said Professor Sanjay Sisodiya, director of genomics at University College London's epilepsy society.

He said that nighttime temperatures mean hotter nights, which can disrupt sleep. This is "particularly important" as hotter temperature and heatwaves mean billions of people globally are sleeping through higher than normal temperatures.

They also observed an increase in hospital admissions, disability, and stroke due to higher temperatures or heatwaves.

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<h2>Hottest 12&nbsp;months</h2>

The research comes as Asia faces dangerous heatwaves attributed to climate crisis.

Recently, the European Union's climate change monitoring service&nbsp;Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) in its monthly report said that April 2024 was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record.

As per C3S, including April, Earth's average temperature was the highest on record for a 12-month period, with temperatures around&nbsp;1.61 degrees Celsius above the average in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period.

Climate Change can threaten our homes but as per a new research, extreme weather can also harm our brain health, making disorders like anxiety and depression worse.

Climate Change can threaten our homes but as per a new research, extreme weather can also harm our brain health, making disorders like anxiety and depression worse. Researchers from University College London, as per a study published in Lancet Neurology, have found a concerning link between environmental changes and neurological health. What is the correlation? Researchers analysed the impact of extreme weather on 19 nervous system conditions, including stroke, Alzheimer’s, meningitis, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. They also looked at psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. They discovered that there was a "clear evidence for an impact of the climate on some brain conditions, especially stroke and infections of the nervous system". Also read | Scientists attempt to recreate 50,000-year-old ancient 'herpes' viruses "The climatic variation that was shown to have an effect on brain diseases included extremes of temperature, both low and high, and greater temperature variation throughout the course of day, especially when these measures were seasonally unusual," said Professor Sanjay Sisodiya, director of genomics at University College London's epilepsy society. He said that nighttime temperatures mean hotter nights, which can disrupt sleep. This is "particularly important" as hotter temperature and heatwaves mean billions of people globally are sleeping through higher than normal temperatures. They also observed an increase in hospital admissions, disability, and stroke due to higher temperatures or heatwaves. Also read | NASA will do THIS when 'God of Destruction' asteroid Apophis comes near Earth in 2029 Hottest 12 months The research comes as Asia faces dangerous heatwaves attributed to climate crisis. Recently, the European Union's climate change monitoring service Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) in its monthly report said that April 2024 was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record. As per C3S, including April, Earth's average temperature was the highest on record for a 12-month period, with temperatures around 1.61 degrees Celsius above the average in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period.

Study finds correlation between climate change and neurological issues

Heat related deaths are on the rise in Europe as climate change takes hold. The Lancet countdown report blames it on food insecurity caused by failed harvests and, heat waves hitting hard an elderly population.

Europe Heatwave: Report ask government to ensure change proof environment

Scientists are warning that climate change is the biggest threat to the pollinators that are essential for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem. Watch in for more details!

Climate change is threat to pollinators

Heat-related deaths rise in Europe

The BRICS group of nations have pledged a billion dollars for storm-ravaged southern Brazil. The aid pours in as the receding floodwaters begin to reveal the full extent of the devastation. Watch in for more climate updates!

Brazil floods: BRICS group of nations pledge billion dollars for Southern Brazil

2023 has been a year of extreme weather conditions. Climate change & El Nino led to soaring temperatures in 2024. Earth's temperature crossed critical threshold in 2023. With wildfires in Canada, Horn of Africa & Middle East to summer heat waves in US, China & Europe. Watch to know more!

Summer 2023 the hottest in 2,000 years; new study's findings alarming

With billions of people across Asia being affected by record-breaking heatwave in April, scientists now say that the impact was most likely made worse by the human-made climate change. Watch in for more details!

Asian continent bears brunt of heatwave

Since the 2016 Paris Agreement, where nations pledged to curb climate change, a troubling reality has emerged. A new report reveals a stark gap between promises and actions. The world's biggest banks have funnelled nearly $7 trillion towards the fossil fuel industry - the very industry driving global warming.

Global banks funnel $7 tn to fossil fuels post Paris agreement

Due to the warming temperatures, Venezuela has reached a grim milestone in the battle against climate change. The vanishing of its last glacier, makes it the first nation to witness the complete melting of all its ice formations.

End of Venezuelan eternal snows

Scientists have identified a new sort of porous material that is distinct in its molecular structure and has the potential to be utilised to trap carbon dioxide and another, more potent greenhouse gas. They call this substance a "cage of cages."

The material was created in two phases by scientists in the UK and China using reactions to assemble triangular prism-building pieces into bigger, more symmetrical tetrahedral cages. According to the team, this is the first molecular structure of its sort.

The resultant material has a high affinity for attracting and holding greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) due to its abundance of polar molecules. Additionally, it demonstrated outstanding stability in water, which is essential for its application in the industrial context to extract carbon from humid or wet gas streams.

"We need new porous materials to help solve society's biggest challenges, like capturing and storing greenhouse gasses," says Marc Little, a materials scientist at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and senior author of the paper. "This is an exciting discovery."

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The novel cage-like material was also shown to have a high absorption of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), the most powerful greenhouse gas according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, in lab testing, albeit these tests were not conducted at scale.&nbsp;

Researchers are working on new materials to make direct air capture more efficient and less energy-intensive, and this new substance might be one of them.&nbsp;

Even though the precursor molecules may theoretically assemble themselves, it wasn't a simple task to create a material with such tremendous structural complexity. Researchers refer to this method as supramolecular self-assembly. It requires some fine-tuning since "the best reaction conditions are often not intuitively obvious," as Little and colleagues describe in their published research. However, it can create chemically linked structures from simpler building pieces.

The difficulty of synthesis increases with the final molecule's complexity, and those processes may result in more molecular "scrambling."

In addition to its ability to absorb greenhouse gases, the researchers propose that their new material may also be employed for the elimination of other airborne pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds.

Scientists have identified a new sort of porous material that is distinct in its molecular structure and has the potential to be utilised to trap carbon dioxide and another, more potent greenhouse gas.

Scientists have identified a new sort of porous material that is distinct in its molecular structure and has the potential to be utilised to trap carbon dioxide and another, more potent greenhouse gas. They call this substance a "cage of cages." The material was created in two phases by scientists in the UK and China using reactions to assemble triangular prism-building pieces into bigger, more symmetrical tetrahedral cages. According to the team, this is the first molecular structure of its sort. The resultant material has a high affinity for attracting and holding greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) due to its abundance of polar molecules. Additionally, it demonstrated outstanding stability in water, which is essential for its application in the industrial context to extract carbon from humid or wet gas streams. "We need new porous materials to help solve society's biggest challenges, like capturing and storing greenhouse gasses," says Marc Little, a materials scientist at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and senior author of the paper. "This is an exciting discovery." Also read: Red Sea shipping diversions boost carbon emissions equivalent to 9 mn cars The novel cage-like material was also shown to have a high absorption of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), the most powerful greenhouse gas according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, in lab testing, albeit these tests were not conducted at scale. Researchers are working on new materials to make direct air capture more efficient and less energy-intensive, and this new substance might be one of them. Even though the precursor molecules may theoretically assemble themselves, it wasn't a simple task to create a material with such tremendous structural complexity. Researchers refer to this method as supramolecular self-assembly. It requires some fine-tuning since "the best reaction conditions are often not intuitively obvious," as Little and colleagues describe in their published research. However, it can create chemically linked structures from simpler building pieces. The difficulty of synthesis increases with the final molecule's complexity, and those processes may result in more molecular "scrambling." In addition to its ability to absorb greenhouse gases, the researchers propose that their new material may also be employed for the elimination of other airborne pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds.

Scientists discover new 'cages of cages' molecule that can trap greenhouse gases

A new study has revealed that venemous snakes will be migrating soon to different regions, the concerning effect is attributed to severe changes of global warming.

Mass migration of venemous snakes: Study, migration to take place around 2070

In continuation of a damning 11-month trend, last month (April) was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record.

On Wednesday (May 8), the European Union's climate change monitoring service in its monthly bulletin said that each month since June 2023 has ranked as the planet's hottest on record. This is in comparison to the months in previous years.

<h2>Highest on record</h2>

As per the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), including April, Earth's average temperature was the highest on record for a 12-month period.&nbsp;

By how much? 1.61 degrees Celsius above the average in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period.

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The dataset maintained by C3S contains historical information dating back to as early as 1940. To validate their findings, scientists also compared this record&nbsp;with other available data and established that last month was the hottest April on record, surpassing any previous April temperatures during the pre-industrial period.

<h2>What is behind this rise in temperatures?</h2>

Greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels have been identified as the main culprit behind climate change.

Recent months also saw El Niño, a natural phenomenon which warms the surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, raising&nbsp;temperatures.

The extremes, including months of record-breaking sea surface temperatures, have led scientists to question whether human activities have now triggered a tipping point in the planet's climate system.

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"I think many scientists have asked the question whether there could be a shift in the climate system," said Julien Nicolas, C3S Senior Climate Scientist as quoted by AFP.

Already, scientists have confirmed that climate change was behind some specific weather extremes last month. This includes the heatwave in the Sahel that has&nbsp;potential links to thousands of deaths.&nbsp;

Experts warn that the Earth is perilously close to breaching the 1.5 degree Celsius target set by the 2015 Paris Agreement.

Hayley Fowler, a climate scientist at Newcastle University, told AFP that she thinks "we have already lost the battle".

"At what point do we declare we've lost the battle to keep temperatures below 1.5? My personal opinion is we've already lost that battle, and we really need to think very seriously about keeping below 2C and reducing our emissions as fast as we can," she said.

Technically, the world is yet to breach the 1.5C target as it refers to the average global temperature over decades. However, some scientists warn that meeting the target is no longer realistic.

(With inputs from agencies)

In continuation of a damning 11-month trend, last month (April) was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record.

In continuation of a damning 11-month trend, last month (April) was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record. On Wednesday (May 8), the European Union's climate change monitoring service in its monthly bulletin said that each month since June 2023 has ranked as the planet's hottest on record. This is in comparison to the months in previous years. Highest on record As per the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), including April, Earth's average temperature was the highest on record for a 12-month period. By how much? 1.61 degrees Celsius above the average in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period. Also read | Has China sent a secret rover to Moon? Internet sleuths spot small device piggybacking Chang'e-6 The dataset maintained by C3S contains historical information dating back to as early as 1940. To validate their findings, scientists also compared this record with other available data and established that last month was the hottest April on record, surpassing any previous April temperatures during the pre-industrial period. What is behind this rise in temperatures? Greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels have been identified as the main culprit behind climate change. Recent months also saw El Niño, a natural phenomenon which warms the surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, raising temperatures. The extremes, including months of record-breaking sea surface temperatures, have led scientists to question whether human activities have now triggered a tipping point in the planet's climate system. Also read | Porn star, Republican and Donald Trump's sneaky link: Who is Stormy Daniels? "I think many scientists have asked the question whether there could be a shift in the climate system," said Julien Nicolas, C3S Senior Climate Scientist as quoted by AFP. Already, scientists have confirmed that climate change was behind some specific weather extremes last month. This includes the heatwave in the Sahel that has potential links to thousands of deaths. Experts warn that the Earth is perilously close to breaching the 1.5 degree Celsius target set by the 2015 Paris Agreement. Hayley Fowler, a climate scientist at Newcastle University, told AFP that she thinks "we have already lost the battle". "At what point do we declare we've lost the battle to keep temperatures below 1.5? My personal opinion is we've already lost that battle, and we really need to think very seriously about keeping below 2C and reducing our emissions as fast as we can," she said. Technically, the world is yet to breach the 1.5C target as it refers to the average global temperature over decades. However, some scientists warn that meeting the target is no longer realistic. (With inputs from agencies)

Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940

In India, the supreme court is set to hear a petition concerning the rampant forest fires in the state of Uttarakhand today. As 910 fire incidents have been reported since last November, causing damage to approximately 1145 hectares of forest...

India: Supreme court set to hear urgent plea on Uttarakhand forest fires today

The world just experienced its hottest April on record. This is according to the European Union's climate change monitoring service which added that, this new record extended an 11-month streak in which every month set a temperature peak.

April: 11th consecutive month of record heat

The&nbsp;climate crisis and rising global temperatures pose a significant challenge for bumblebees, mirroring the struggles&nbsp;faced by humans&nbsp;in adapting to increasingly uninhabitable conditions.

Research conducted by the University of Guelph in Canada delved into historical studies dating back to the 1800s, shedding light on bumblebee behaviour amidst changing climatic conditions. Regardless of their species or geographic location, bumblebees&nbsp;exhibit a preference for&nbsp;nest temperatures ranging from approximately 28 to 32 degrees Celsius (82-90 degrees Fahrenheit). However, when nest temperatures exceed the threshold of 36 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit), the bees' reproductive capabilities are compromised, highlighting the critical role of temperature regulation in their survival.

These findings underscore the growing concerns surrounding the impact of climate change on bumblebee populations worldwide. Despite their remarkable ability to thermoregulate, bumblebees face significant challenges in maintaining suitable nesting conditions as temperatures&nbsp;continue to&nbsp;rise.

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The decline of numerous bumblebee species linked to climate change presents difficulty for researchers. While the correlation between rising temperatures and declining populations is evident, pinpointing a singular causative factor remains elusive.

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These revelations highlight the urgent need for concerted action to mitigate the impacts of climate change on bumblebee population. Efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions, preserve bumblebee habitats, and promote sustainable practices are imperative to safeguard these invaluable pollinators and the ecosystems they inhabit.

(With inputs from agencies)

The climate crisis and rising global temperatures pose a significant challenge for bumblebees, mirroring the struggles faced by humans in adapting to increasingly uninhabitable conditions.

The climate crisis and rising global temperatures pose a significant challenge for bumblebees, mirroring the struggles faced by humans in adapting to increasingly uninhabitable conditions. Research conducted by the University of Guelph in Canada delved into historical studies dating back to the 1800s, shedding light on bumblebee behaviour amidst changing climatic conditions. Regardless of their species or geographic location, bumblebees exhibit a preference for nest temperatures ranging from approximately 28 to 32 degrees Celsius (82-90 degrees Fahrenheit). However, when nest temperatures exceed the threshold of 36 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit), the bees' reproductive capabilities are compromised, highlighting the critical role of temperature regulation in their survival. These findings underscore the growing concerns surrounding the impact of climate change on bumblebee populations worldwide. Despite their remarkable ability to thermoregulate, bumblebees face significant challenges in maintaining suitable nesting conditions as temperatures continue to rise. Also read | US: E. coli risk prompts recall of 16,000 pounds of ground beef sold at Walmart The decline of numerous bumblebee species linked to climate change presents difficulty for researchers. While the correlation between rising temperatures and declining populations is evident, pinpointing a singular causative factor remains elusive. Also read | Big Nude Boat: A nude experience to set sail from Miami These revelations highlight the urgent need for concerted action to mitigate the impacts of climate change on bumblebee population. Efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions, preserve bumblebee habitats, and promote sustainable practices are imperative to safeguard these invaluable pollinators and the ecosystems they inhabit. (With inputs from agencies)

Rising temperatures endangering bumblebee nests, study finds

One of the massive craters in the world, famously known as the “gateway to the underworld” is growing by 35 million cubic feet every year. The huge crater situated in Serbia’s permafrost is expanding due to melting of the ground, a new study has found.

Officially known as Batagay (spelled as Batagaika), the crater or mega slump is a rounded cliff face that was first discovered in 1991 through satellite images. It was created after a section of hillside collapsed in the Yana Uplands of northern Yakutia in Russia.&nbsp;

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This collapse exposed layers of permafrost within the remaining portion of the hillside that have been frozen for up to 650,000 years now. It is known as the oldest permafrost in Siberia and second oldest in the world.

New research suggests that the Batagay mega slump’s cliff face is retreating at a rate of 40 feet (12 metres) per year due to permafrost thaw. The collapsed section of the hillside is also rapidly melting and sinking. &nbsp;

"Rapid permafrost thaw features are widespread and observed to increase in Arctic and sub-Arctic ice-rich permafrost terrain," the research team wrote in a study, published online March 31 in the journal Geomorphology. However, the amount of ice and sediment lost from the Batagay mega slump is "exceptionally high" due to the sheer size of the depression, which stretched 3,250 feet (990 m) wide as of 2023.

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The mega slump was of 2,600 feet (790 m) wide in 2014, which means it grew 660 feet (200 m) wider in less than 10 years. Researchers were aware that it was growing, but this is the first time they have quantified the volume of melting material out of the crater.

The results from the research showed that a region of ice and sediment equivalent to more than 14 Great Pyramids of Giza has melted off the mega slump since it collapsed.&nbsp;

The rate of melting has remained relatively steady over the past decade, occurring mostly along the slump on the western, southern and southeastern edges of the crater.

(With inputs from agencies)

One of the massive craters in the world, famously known as the “gateway to the underworld” is growing by 35 million cubic feet every year. The huge crater situated in Serbia’s permafrost is expanding due to melting of the ground, a new study has found.

One of the massive craters in the world, famously known as the “gateway to the underworld” is growing by 35 million cubic feet every year. The huge crater situated in Serbia’s permafrost is expanding due to melting of the ground, a new study has found. Officially known as Batagay (spelled as Batagaika), the crater or mega slump is a rounded cliff face that was first discovered in 1991 through satellite images. It was created after a section of hillside collapsed in the Yana Uplands of northern Yakutia in Russia. Also Read | Ancient fossil shows birds are officially dinosaurs This collapse exposed layers of permafrost within the remaining portion of the hillside that have been frozen for up to 650,000 years now. It is known as the oldest permafrost in Siberia and second oldest in the world. New research suggests that the Batagay mega slump’s cliff face is retreating at a rate of 40 feet (12 metres) per year due to permafrost thaw. The collapsed section of the hillside is also rapidly melting and sinking. "Rapid permafrost thaw features are widespread and observed to increase in Arctic and sub-Arctic ice-rich permafrost terrain," the research team wrote in a study, published online March 31 in the journal Geomorphology. However, the amount of ice and sediment lost from the Batagay mega slump is "exceptionally high" due to the sheer size of the depression, which stretched 3,250 feet (990 m) wide as of 2023. Also Read | Scientists decode why memories come back to dementia patients before death The mega slump was of 2,600 feet (790 m) wide in 2014, which means it grew 660 feet (200 m) wider in less than 10 years. Researchers were aware that it was growing, but this is the first time they have quantified the volume of melting material out of the crater. The results from the research showed that a region of ice and sediment equivalent to more than 14 Great Pyramids of Giza has melted off the mega slump since it collapsed. The rate of melting has remained relatively steady over the past decade, occurring mostly along the slump on the western, southern and southeastern edges of the crater. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gateway to the underworld’ in Siberia is growing at a staggering rate every year: Study

Every year a phenomenon is unfolds in the serene hills of Uttarakhand. The rhododendron blooms from the branches of the Buransh tree and paints the region in shades of red. However this time it is blooming prematurely and is causing alarm.

Rhododendron blooming: A climate hazard

US Corn and Soybean futures spiked to their highest levels in 2024. The culprit? Climate change. But what impact will the price rises have on the consumer? That's what this report decodes.

How Climate Change is impacting food bills | World Business Watch

Food commodity prices spike, why now?

A team of researchers from the University of Sydney have developed a novel chemical process that could produce sustainable aviation fuel from gases emitted by landfills. Watch in for more details!

Landfill Gas: New sustainable Jet fuel?

The United States and China will resume bilateral talks on climate cooperation. This comes as trade and security tensions between the two Global powers are at an all-time high. Watch in for more details!

US Climate Change diplomat to meet Chinese counterpart, climate meeting scheduled for May

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