At least 15 people died in a landslide in Colombia after heavy rain led to a stream bursting its bank in a village–according to local reports, at least six people are injured, more than 20 houses in El Na-Ran-Jal village are destroyed, and the key bridge connecting the south of the country with the capital Bogota has collapsed. Authorities also reported heavy traffic between Bogota and the south of the country. President Gustavo Petro, who is currently attending a summit in Brussels, sent his condolences to those affected by the tragedy.

Colombia: landslide kills at least 15 and injures more than six

Heritage & historical sites in china are under the direct threat of climate change. Ancient Buddhist murals are under severe risk due to climate change. As per investigators, this is a result of the unprecedented levels of rainfall in northwestern China.

Climate change menaces China's ancient heritage sites

The world meteorological department has issued a warning that the health risks due to extreme heat are increasing, and the world should brace itself for more intense and frequent heat waves. According to the world weather body, the heatwave is in its early phases, and it is expected that mercury might hit above 40 degree Celsius in north America, Asia, north Africa and the Mediterranean.

Prolonged heatwave may lead to heart attacks

Net zero ambitions are at risk in England as the government fails to meet over 50 per cent of its annual Tree planting target. Tree planting plays a crucial role in carbon depletion and biodiversity preservation, both of which are essential for achieving sustainability goals. The department for environment, food and rural affairs aimed to plant 30,000 hectares of woodland by March 2025, but a report by the environmental audit committee found that this target couldn't be met.

UK government failed to meet 50 % of its tree-planting targets

Climate change is real, and now are facing the brunt of it. The countries in the world are quite literally on fire. Now even the United Nations is worried as well. United Nations World Meteorological Organization is voicing serious concerns about the growing intensity of the heatwaves worldwide.

UN: Prepare for more intense heatwaves in the Northern Hemisphere

<p>In a meeting with senior Chinese officials, US climate envoy John Kerry on Tuesday (July 18th) emphasised the potential of climate cooperation between China and the United States as a way to redefine their troubled relationship and address global warming.</p>

<p>Reuters reports that Kerry's visit to China, which is aimed at reviving climate cooperation, coincided with extreme weather events worldwide, including record-breaking temperatures in the western United States.</p>

<h2><strong>Kerry cites record high temperature in Xinjiang, China</strong></h2>

<p>During a meeting at China's legislative building, the Great Hall of the People, Kerry expressed hope that the talks would mark the beginning of a new phase of cooperation and resolution of differences between the two countries.</p>

<p>He reportedly highlighted the seriousness of the situation, mentioning a record high temperature of 52.2 degrees Celsius recorded in China's Xinjiang region.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/us-white-house-announces-proposed-cyber-safety-mark-for-connected-devices-617067">US: White House announces proposed cyber safety mark for connected devices</a></strong></p>

<p>Premier Li Qiang as per Reuters expressed doubt over the Xinjiang temperatures mentioned by the US envoy, but later acknowledged the severe climate impacts faced by China and other regions.</p>

<p>"The predictions are much more serious than they've ever been," said Kerry.</p>

<p>The discussions between the two sides covered various topics, including climate financing, China's coal consumption, and the reduction of methane emissions.</p>

<h2><strong>China's urges wealthy nation to take the lead</strong></h2>

<p>Li, as per China's official Xinhua news agency, urged rich nations to "take the lead" in cutting emissions and fulfilling their commitments to provide climate financing to developing countries.</p>

<p>As per the news agency, speaking at a press conference later, Chinese President Xi Jinping too reiterated China's "unwavering" commitment to tackling climate change.</p>

<p>"But the route, method and intensity used to achieve this goal should and must be determined by ourselves, and will never be influenced by others," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>US envoy for 'fresh' start</strong></h2>

<p>During his meeting with top diplomat Wang Yi, Kerry emphasised that the talks could provide a fresh start for US-China relations, which have been strained due to disputes over Taiwan and trade.</p>

<p>He also conveyed to Chinese President Xi Jinping a message from US President Joe Biden, expressing how much the leader "values his relationship" with his Chinese counterpart.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-3-year-old-accidentally-kills-1-year-old-sibling-with-a-gun-in-a-bizarre-incident-616992">US: 3-year-old 'accidentally' kills 1-year-old sibling with a gun in bizarre incident</a></strong></p>

<p>"President Biden is very committed to stability within this relationship and also to achieve efforts together that can make significant difference to the world," said Kerry.</p>

<p>"I know he looks forward to being able to move forward, change the dynamics."</p>

<p>Wang Yi also referred to Kerry as an "old friend," highlighting their previous collaboration on resolving various issues, including the Iran nuclear talks.</p>

<h2><strong>Negotiations to continue</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters reports that the negotiations between the US and Chinese delegations will continue, focusing on national actions on climate change and preparations for the upcoming COP28 talks in Dubai.</p>

<p>Kerry's visit marks the formal resumption of top-level climate diplomacy between the two countries, and he is the third high-ranking US official to visit Beijing in recent weeks.</p>

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In a meeting with senior Chinese officials, US climate envoy John Kerry on Tuesday (July 18th) emphasised the potential of climate cooperation between China and the United States as a way to redefine their troubled relationship and address global warming.

In a meeting with senior Chinese officials, US climate envoy John Kerry on Tuesday (July 18th) emphasised the potential of climate cooperation between China and the United States as a way to redefine their troubled relationship and address global warming. Reuters reports that Kerry's visit to China, which is aimed at reviving climate cooperation, coincided with extreme weather events worldwide, including record-breaking temperatures in the western United States. Kerry cites record high temperature in Xinjiang, China During a meeting at China's legislative building, the Great Hall of the People, Kerry expressed hope that the talks would mark the beginning of a new phase of cooperation and resolution of differences between the two countries. He reportedly highlighted the seriousness of the situation, mentioning a record high temperature of 52.2 degrees Celsius recorded in China's Xinjiang region. Also read | US: White House announces proposed cyber safety mark for connected devices Premier Li Qiang as per Reuters expressed doubt over the Xinjiang temperatures mentioned by the US envoy, but later acknowledged the severe climate impacts faced by China and other regions. "The predictions are much more serious than they've ever been," said Kerry. The discussions between the two sides covered various topics, including climate financing, China's coal consumption, and the reduction of methane emissions. China's urges wealthy nation to take the lead Li, as per China's official Xinhua news agency, urged rich nations to "take the lead" in cutting emissions and fulfilling their commitments to provide climate financing to developing countries. As per the news agency, speaking at a press conference later, Chinese President Xi Jinping too reiterated China's "unwavering" commitment to tackling climate change. "But the route, method and intensity used to achieve this goal should and must be determined by ourselves, and will never be influenced by others," he said. US envoy for 'fresh' start During his meeting with top diplomat Wang Yi, Kerry emphasised that the talks could provide a fresh start for US-China relations, which have been strained due to disputes over Taiwan and trade. He also conveyed to Chinese President Xi Jinping a message from US President Joe Biden, expressing how much the leader "values his relationship" with his Chinese counterpart. Also read | US: 3-year-old 'accidentally' kills 1-year-old sibling with a gun in bizarre incident "President Biden is very committed to stability within this relationship and also to achieve efforts together that can make significant difference to the world," said Kerry. "I know he looks forward to being able to move forward, change the dynamics." Wang Yi also referred to Kerry as an "old friend," highlighting their previous collaboration on resolving various issues, including the Iran nuclear talks. Negotiations to continue Reuters reports that the negotiations between the US and Chinese delegations will continue, focusing on national actions on climate change and preparations for the upcoming COP28 talks in Dubai. Kerry's visit marks the formal resumption of top-level climate diplomacy between the two countries, and he is the third high-ranking US official to visit Beijing in recent weeks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US climate envoy John Kerry seeks cooperation with China to redefine troubled relationship

<p>Electric ‘noses’ are being installed in Germany to help sniff out forest fires at the earliest stage of smouldering and prevent major disasters. These devices come fitted with ultra-sensitive sensors and powered with AI learning, which can differentiate between smoke of various types and alert authorities accordingly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For instance, the device, powered by solar electricity,&nbsp;can differentiate between smoke emanating from a diesel truck passing nearby or a legit forest fire.</p>

<h2><strong>Trials ongoing in Germany</strong></h2>

<p>A trial is currently underway in the heart of Eberswalde forest northeast of Berlin, a hotspot for wildfires in the country. More than 400 sensors have been installed in the area, or one device per hectare (2.5 acres).&nbsp;</p>

<p>These devices were created two years ago by Berlin-based startup Dryad Networks. Its co-founder Juergen Mueller says the ‘electric nose’ can detect and help put out the fire within 10-15 minutes of initial smouldering.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;How did exactly Canadian wildfires start?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"In 10, 15 minutes we can detect an incipient fire before it becomes an open fire," he said, adding that it was way faster than traditional systems involving monitoring through cameras.</p>

<p>He says that as soon as a wildfire is detected, the data is immediately relayed to a cloud-based monitoring system and local authorities are alerted.</p>

<h2><strong>10 nations experimenting with the device</strong></h2>

<p>As more and more nations experience a surge in deadly wildfire incidents owing to climate change, the makers of the device believe their sales would shoot up. Dryad Networks said 10 countries including the United States, Greece and Spain were already experimenting with the device.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-columbia-seeks-military-help-and-foreign-countries-amid-record-wildfires-616946"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Canada: British Columbia seeks help of military, foreign countries to tackle record wildfires</strong></a></p>

<p>The startup sold 10,000 devices last year and is hoping to get at least 120 million devices installed by 2030 end.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Helpful in preventing disaster’</strong></h2>

<p>Raimund Engel, Brandenburg's forest fire protection officer, has hailed the devices as a useful addition to the visual detection method currently in practice.</p>

<p>"Because of climate change" the weather conditions in the forest-rich area are "very similar to some Mediterranean regions", Engel said, "with periods of drought and temperatures that sometimes reach up to 40 degree&nbsp;Celsius”</p>

<p>"The faster we detect the fire, the quicker firefighters can be on the scene,” he added, acknowledging that early intervention can greatly help authorities to prevent disasters before they rage out of control.</p>

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Electric ‘noses’ are being installed in Germany to help sniff out forest fires at the earliest stage of smouldering and prevent major disasters. These devices come fitted with ultra-sensitive sensors and powered with AI learning, which can differentiate between smoke of various types and alert authorities accordingly.

Electric ‘noses’ are being installed in Germany to help sniff out forest fires at the earliest stage of smouldering and prevent major disasters. These devices come fitted with ultra-sensitive sensors and powered with AI learning, which can differentiate between smoke of various types and alert authorities accordingly. For instance, the device, powered by solar electricity, can differentiate between smoke emanating from a diesel truck passing nearby or a legit forest fire. Trials ongoing in Germany A trial is currently underway in the heart of Eberswalde forest northeast of Berlin, a hotspot for wildfires in the country. More than 400 sensors have been installed in the area, or one device per hectare (2.5 acres). These devices were created two years ago by Berlin-based startup Dryad Networks. Its co-founder Juergen Mueller says the ‘electric nose’ can detect and help put out the fire within 10-15 minutes of initial smouldering. Watch: How did exactly Canadian wildfires start? × "In 10, 15 minutes we can detect an incipient fire before it becomes an open fire," he said, adding that it was way faster than traditional systems involving monitoring through cameras. He says that as soon as a wildfire is detected, the data is immediately relayed to a cloud-based monitoring system and local authorities are alerted. 10 nations experimenting with the device As more and more nations experience a surge in deadly wildfire incidents owing to climate change, the makers of the device believe their sales would shoot up. Dryad Networks said 10 countries including the United States, Greece and Spain were already experimenting with the device. Also read: Canada: British Columbia seeks help of military, foreign countries to tackle record wildfires The startup sold 10,000 devices last year and is hoping to get at least 120 million devices installed by 2030 end. ‘Helpful in preventing disaster’ Raimund Engel, Brandenburg's forest fire protection officer, has hailed the devices as a useful addition to the visual detection method currently in practice. "Because of climate change" the weather conditions in the forest-rich area are "very similar to some Mediterranean regions", Engel said, "with periods of drought and temperatures that sometimes reach up to 40 degree Celsius” "The faster we detect the fire, the quicker firefighters can be on the scene,” he added, acknowledging that early intervention can greatly help authorities to prevent disasters before they rage out of control. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

German startup installing electric ‘noses’ in forests to help early detection of wildfires

US, Europe, India, China and Japan are feeling the wrath of global warming in different ways. Floods, heatwaves and forest fires are occurring in several parts of the world. Is it too late to stabilise the situation? Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Floods and heatwaves grip the globe

The world is experiencing a new wave of climate change. Temperatures are also hitting previously unexpected highs. Heatwaves and wildfires are scorching 3 continents across the world. Climate naturally fluctuates throughout the world's history, causing events leading to harmful effects.

Temperatures rise across northern hemisphere

In yet another clash, climate activists in Spain's Ibiza islands attacked a superyacht that belonged to Walmart heiress nancy walton laurie. The vessel was vandalised by members of a Spain-based climate activism group.

Climate activists deface Walmart heiress' $300m yacht

John Kerry the US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate landed in Beijing on Sunday for a four-day visit. US and China will exchange views on working together to address climate change right now the key issue here is methane emissions that's responsible for 30% of global warming. John Kerry says Beijing has agreed to have a methane action plan.

Kerry: Beijing has agreed to have methane action plan

The two biggest carbon polluters in the world are sitting at the same table. John Kerry, the US Special presidential envoy for climate has met his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua. John Kerry began his 4-day visit in full swing by holding a four-hour meeting with Xie Zhenhua.

John Kerry holds 4-hour meeting with Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua

Temperatures are soaring across Europe this week and the experts are calling this heat wave Cerberus the three-headed Hound of Hell in Greek mythology. The temperatures are around 40 degrees Celsius in the countries of Italy, Spain, Greece and Croatia but the question is why has Europe become a hot furnace?

Why has Europe become a hot furnace?

The temperatures in the coldest place away from Humanity like Antarctica are now becoming hot reason being global warming. Antarctica is facing one of the most alarming heat where it is currently Winters the sea ice is at a record low level around Antarctica according to the World of Weather Organization.

Antarctica's role in regulating global climate at risk

<p>United States envoy John Kerry arrived in China on Sunday (July 16), reported the Chinese state media, as the world’s two biggest greenhouse gas emitters look to revive stalled efforts to combat global warming.</p>

<h2><strong>What will US and China envoys discuss?</strong></h2>

<p>The talks between US special envoy on climate change Kerry and his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua will begin on Monday and go on till Wednesday. “<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heavy-rainfall-in-chongqing-unleashes-havoc-615687">China</a> and the United States will have an in-depth exchange of views” on climate issues, reported the state broadcaster CCTV upon Kerry’s arrival in Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meetings will&nbsp;focus on issues such as reducing methane emissions, limiting coal use, curbing deforestation and helping poor countries address climate change, reported Reuters. The talks, observers hope, will raise the bar on ambitions ahead of the upcoming United Nations climate summit, COP28, which will be hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Dubai, later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official from Washington, during his visit to Beijing, will talk to Chinese officials “with respect to increasing implementation and ambition and promoting a successful COP28,” said the US state department. Worryingly, several regions across the world have been experiencing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-battle-record-heatwaves-as-temperatures-dangerously-soar-in-us-europe-616127">record-breaking temperatures</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ease in diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing</strong></h2>

<p>It is also worth noting that the bilateral climate talks between US and China had stalled, back in August, after then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the democratically-governed island of Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its territory, and the Chinese infuriated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, former US president Donald Trump’s administration put tariffs on Chinese goods, including solar panels, while Washington also introduced a law blocking imports from China’s Xinjiang region where Washington believes Beijing uses forced labour.</p>

<p>However, both countries have recently said that they should be able to collaborate on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-the-cerberus-heatwave-which-is-boiling-europe-616230">climate change</a> despite other disagreements. The informal talks about climate issues resumed during the COP27 summit in Egypt in November.</p>

<p>Prior to his trip to China, the US envoy addressed his objectives at a US House subcommittee hearing on Thursday and said, “What we’re trying to achieve now is really to establish some stability with the relationship without conceding anything.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kerry’s visit also follows two other high-level visits from Washington officials&nbsp;– Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen – to Beijing, in a bid to reestablish and stabilise US-China ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The talks between Washington and China will be closely watched, including by Republican lawmakers, who criticised Kerry’s trip and reportedly said how he is flying a carbon-spewing private jet halfway across the world to discuss climate change with a political adversary.</p>

<p>However, observers and environmental groups see it as a good sign and have hoped for a positive outcome from these meetings. The scheduled talks showed&nbsp;that climate change “is still the touchstone for the most important bilateral relationship of the world,” said Li Shuo from Greenpeace in Beijing, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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United States envoy John Kerry arrived in China on Sunday (July 16), reported the Chinese state media, as the world’s two biggest greenhouse gas emitters look to revive stalled efforts to combat global warming.

United States envoy John Kerry arrived in China on Sunday (July 16), reported the Chinese state media, as the world’s two biggest greenhouse gas emitters look to revive stalled efforts to combat global warming. What will US and China envoys discuss? The talks between US special envoy on climate change Kerry and his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua will begin on Monday and go on till Wednesday. “China and the United States will have an in-depth exchange of views” on climate issues, reported the state broadcaster CCTV upon Kerry’s arrival in Beijing. The meetings will focus on issues such as reducing methane emissions, limiting coal use, curbing deforestation and helping poor countries address climate change, reported Reuters. The talks, observers hope, will raise the bar on ambitions ahead of the upcoming United Nations climate summit, COP28, which will be hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Dubai, later this year. The official from Washington, during his visit to Beijing, will talk to Chinese officials “with respect to increasing implementation and ambition and promoting a successful COP28,” said the US state department. Worryingly, several regions across the world have been experiencing record-breaking temperatures. Ease in diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing It is also worth noting that the bilateral climate talks between US and China had stalled, back in August, after then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the democratically-governed island of Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its territory, and the Chinese infuriated. Additionally, former US president Donald Trump’s administration put tariffs on Chinese goods, including solar panels, while Washington also introduced a law blocking imports from China’s Xinjiang region where Washington believes Beijing uses forced labour. However, both countries have recently said that they should be able to collaborate on climate change despite other disagreements. The informal talks about climate issues resumed during the COP27 summit in Egypt in November. Prior to his trip to China, the US envoy addressed his objectives at a US House subcommittee hearing on Thursday and said, “What we’re trying to achieve now is really to establish some stability with the relationship without conceding anything.” Kerry’s visit also follows two other high-level visits from Washington officials – Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen – to Beijing, in a bid to reestablish and stabilise US-China ties. The talks between Washington and China will be closely watched, including by Republican lawmakers, who criticised Kerry’s trip and reportedly said how he is flying a carbon-spewing private jet halfway across the world to discuss climate change with a political adversary. However, observers and environmental groups see it as a good sign and have hoped for a positive outcome from these meetings. The scheduled talks showed that climate change “is still the touchstone for the most important bilateral relationship of the world,” said Li Shuo from Greenpeace in Beijing, as quoted by Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Washington envoy Kerry arrives in Beijing as US, China aim to revive climate cooperation

US Special Envoy on climate change John Kerry is visiting Beijing where he will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua. The focus will be on multiple tenets of environment conservation like reducing methane emissions. Limiting coal use, curbing deforestation and helping poor countries address climate change. Apart from this, the two sides will also discuss China’s objections to US Tariffs and other restrictions on imports of Chinese solar panels and battery components. The talks had been stalled since last year when then-speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi paid a visit to Taiwan. The restart of US-China climate talks will come on the heels of the hottest week on record globally.

US & China to restart talks on climate change with US Envoy's visit

The ice, ocean, and ecosystems of Antarctica are essential for regulating the world's climate. Together, they contribute to the slowing of global warming, the sustaining of significant ocean currents, and the removal of millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. These sensitive processes are being upset by the climate problem.

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday (July 15), during his one-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), said that he would attend the upcoming United Nations climate conference hosted in Dubai. The Indian PM also held productive talks with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-names-oil-boss-al-jaber-to-head-cop28-activists-criticise-appointment-552349">president-designate of COP28</a>, Sultan bin Ahmed Al-Jaber.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Indian PM holds talks with COP28 president-elect</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi wrapped up his two-day visit to France where he joined French President Emmanuel Macron for the Bastille Day parade as the Guest of Honour and signed several agreements with Paris aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian PM then left for the UAE to meet with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in a bid to review bilateral ties between the two countries. During his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-indian-pm-modi-to-arrive-in-uae-after-his-two-day-visit-to-france-615869">brief visit</a>, Modi also held talks with the COP28 president-designate and conveyed India’s full support for UAE’s presidency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Al-Jaber briefed Modi about UAE’s approach to the important meeting. PM Modi India’s efforts and initiatives to address climate change, including International SolarAlliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, International Year of Millets and Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE).</p>

<p>After the meeting, the Indian PM took to Twitter and wrote, “Had a very productive meeting with Dr. Sultan Al-Jaber, the President-designate of @COP28_UAE. Our discussions focused on ways to further sustainable development. Highlighted India’s contribution in this direction, in particular our emphasis on Mission LiFE.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi to attend COP28 climate</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Subsequently, during his talks with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, PM Modi also accepted his invitation to attend the upcoming COP-28 summit in the country. “I am thankful for your invitation and I always look for the chance to come here. I have decided to attend the COP-28 Summit in the UAE,” said the Indian PM.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy surrounding UAE’s COP28 presidency</strong></h2>

<p>Since UAE has announced Al-Jaber, who is also the head of the country’s Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), as the leader of this year’s summit, lawmakers from several countries and environmental rights groups have called for him to step down citing a conflict of interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-state-oil-firm-was-able-to-read-email-exchanges-about-cop28-climate-summit-report-601885">a report</a> by the British newspaper, The Guardian found that the Emirati state oil firm was able to read email exchanges between organisers of the UN climate summit and was also “consulted” on how to respond to the media inquiries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, as per AFP, while Al-Jaber favours the rapid development of renewable energy, he has also supposedly focused more on the use of controversial technologies to capture carbon dioxide as opposed to reducing emissions by limiting fossil fuels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a supposed change of stance, Al-Jaber has also urged countries to focus on “phasing out fossil fuel emissions,” reported Reuters. Earlier this year, over 100 members of the United States Congress and European Parliament called for Al-Jaber’s removal as it would threaten the integrity of negotiations.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday (July 15), during his one-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), said that he would attend the upcoming United Nations climate conference hosted in Dubai.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday (July 15), during his one-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), said that he would attend the upcoming United Nations climate conference hosted in Dubai. The Indian PM also held productive talks with the president-designate of COP28, Sultan bin Ahmed Al-Jaber. Indian PM holds talks with COP28 president-elect PM Modi wrapped up his two-day visit to France where he joined French President Emmanuel Macron for the Bastille Day parade as the Guest of Honour and signed several agreements with Paris aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. The Indian PM then left for the UAE to meet with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in a bid to review bilateral ties between the two countries. During his brief visit, Modi also held talks with the COP28 president-designate and conveyed India’s full support for UAE’s presidency. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Al-Jaber briefed Modi about UAE’s approach to the important meeting. PM Modi India’s efforts and initiatives to address climate change, including International SolarAlliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, International Year of Millets and Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE). After the meeting, the Indian PM took to Twitter and wrote, “Had a very productive meeting with Dr. Sultan Al-Jaber, the President-designate of @COP28_UAE. Our discussions focused on ways to further sustainable development. Highlighted India’s contribution in this direction, in particular our emphasis on Mission LiFE.” PM Modi to attend COP28 climate Subsequently, during his talks with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, PM Modi also accepted his invitation to attend the upcoming COP-28 summit in the country. “I am thankful for your invitation and I always look for the chance to come here. I have decided to attend the COP-28 Summit in the UAE,” said the Indian PM. Controversy surrounding UAE’s COP28 presidency Since UAE has announced Al-Jaber, who is also the head of the country’s Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), as the leader of this year’s summit, lawmakers from several countries and environmental rights groups have called for him to step down citing a conflict of interest. Last month, a report by the British newspaper, The Guardian found that the Emirati state oil firm was able to read email exchanges between organisers of the UN climate summit and was also “consulted” on how to respond to the media inquiries. However, as per AFP, while Al-Jaber favours the rapid development of renewable energy, he has also supposedly focused more on the use of controversial technologies to capture carbon dioxide as opposed to reducing emissions by limiting fossil fuels. In a supposed change of stance, Al-Jaber has also urged countries to focus on “phasing out fossil fuel emissions,” reported Reuters. Earlier this year, over 100 members of the United States Congress and European Parliament called for Al-Jaber’s removal as it would threaten the integrity of negotiations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi to attend UN climate summit in Dubai, assures India’s full support for UAE’s COP28 presidency

<p>According to new research, the colour of the Earth's oceans is changing because of climate breakdown. The report suggests that the deep blue sea is actually turning greener over time and added that climate change is also affecting areas in the low latitudes near the equator.</p>

<p>“The reason we care about this is not because we care about the colour, but because the colour is a reflection of the changes in the state of the ecosystem,” stated BB Cael, a scientist at the National Oceanography Centre at the University of Southampton and author of the study which was published in Nature.</p>

<p>Earlier research has focused on the changes in the ocean's greenness, using the verdant chlorophyll present in its plankton, to know more about the impacts of climate change. However, the team led by Cael has studied the observations recorded by NASA's Modis-Aqua satellite which is an exhaustive data repository and searched for patterns of change in the colours of the ocean using a fuller colour spectrum, which included red and blue.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-perils-of-deep-sea-mining-demand-for-green-technologies-threatens-marine-life-613959">Explained: How deep-sea mining &amp; demand for green technologies threaten marine life</a></p>

<p>Plankton of various sizes have been scattering light in different ways and plankton, which have different pigments, have been absorbing light in various ways.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>More than 56 per cent of the oceans facing 'greening effect'</strong></h2>

<p>By studying the colour changes, scientists can provide clarity over changes in plankton populations across the world. Phytoplankton is important for ocean ecosystems because it remains at the base of many of its food chains.</p>

<p>“We do have changes in the colour that are significantly emerging in almost all of the ocean of the tropics or subtropics,” stated Cael. The changes have been noted in more than 56 per cent of the oceans across the world, which is an area more than all of the land spread on the globe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In many areas there’s a clear “greening effect”, &nbsp;stated Cael, however, he added that there are also water bodies where the blue or red colourings are falling or rising.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These are not ultra, massive ecosystem-destroying changes, they may be subtle,” stated Cael. “But this gives us an additional piece of evidence that human activity is likely affecting large parts of the global biosphere in a way that we haven’t been able to understand," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Scientists unravel the mystery of Indian Ocean</strong></p>

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<p>A researcher of ocean productivity at Oregon State University, Michael J Behrenfeld, said that the study extensively documents another consequence of changing climate. However, it remains unclear how strong these changes are and what exactly is taking place inside the ocean which is causing them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Most likely, the measured trends are associated with multiple factors changing in parallel. With answers to these questions, we can then begin understanding what the ecological and biogeochemical implications are,” stated Behrenfeld.</p>

<p>An advanced satellite mission called Pace (plankton, aerosol, cloud, ocean ecosystem) will be launched by NASA in January 204 which will measure hundreds of colours in the ocean. “Making more meaningful inferences about what the changes actually are ecologically is definitely a big next step,” stated Cael.</p>

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According to new research, the colour of the Earth's oceans is changing because of climate breakdown. The report suggests that the deep blue sea is actually turning greener over time and added that climate change is also affecting areas in the low latitudes near the equator.

According to new research, the colour of the Earth's oceans is changing because of climate breakdown. The report suggests that the deep blue sea is actually turning greener over time and added that climate change is also affecting areas in the low latitudes near the equator. “The reason we care about this is not because we care about the colour, but because the colour is a reflection of the changes in the state of the ecosystem,” stated BB Cael, a scientist at the National Oceanography Centre at the University of Southampton and author of the study which was published in Nature. Earlier research has focused on the changes in the ocean's greenness, using the verdant chlorophyll present in its plankton, to know more about the impacts of climate change. However, the team led by Cael has studied the observations recorded by NASA's Modis-Aqua satellite which is an exhaustive data repository and searched for patterns of change in the colours of the ocean using a fuller colour spectrum, which included red and blue. ALSO READ | Explained: How deep-sea mining & demand for green technologies threaten marine life Plankton of various sizes have been scattering light in different ways and plankton, which have different pigments, have been absorbing light in various ways. More than 56 per cent of the oceans facing 'greening effect' By studying the colour changes, scientists can provide clarity over changes in plankton populations across the world. Phytoplankton is important for ocean ecosystems because it remains at the base of many of its food chains. “We do have changes in the colour that are significantly emerging in almost all of the ocean of the tropics or subtropics,” stated Cael. The changes have been noted in more than 56 per cent of the oceans across the world, which is an area more than all of the land spread on the globe. In many areas there’s a clear “greening effect”, stated Cael, however, he added that there are also water bodies where the blue or red colourings are falling or rising. “These are not ultra, massive ecosystem-destroying changes, they may be subtle,” stated Cael. “But this gives us an additional piece of evidence that human activity is likely affecting large parts of the global biosphere in a way that we haven’t been able to understand," he added. WATCH | Scientists unravel the mystery of Indian Ocean A researcher of ocean productivity at Oregon State University, Michael J Behrenfeld, said that the study extensively documents another consequence of changing climate. However, it remains unclear how strong these changes are and what exactly is taking place inside the ocean which is causing them. “Most likely, the measured trends are associated with multiple factors changing in parallel. With answers to these questions, we can then begin understanding what the ecological and biogeochemical implications are,” stated Behrenfeld. An advanced satellite mission called Pace (plankton, aerosol, cloud, ocean ecosystem) will be launched by NASA in January 204 which will measure hundreds of colours in the ocean. “Making more meaningful inferences about what the changes actually are ecologically is definitely a big next step,” stated Cael. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Climate change making world's oceans 'green', suggests new study

The world is ravaged by intense floods and homes are being destroyed by heavy winds. China, Japan, Pakistan and the United States are on top of the list. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: The world battles intense floods

<p>A study published on Tuesday (July 11) found that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-perils-of-deep-sea-mining-demand-for-green-technologies-threatens-marine-life-613959">deep-sea mining</a> could interfere with the expected change of migration patterns of tuna driven by climate change, to areas of the Pacific where mining activities are set to take place. The findings of the research were published alongside a letter by the seafood groups calling for a halt to deep-sea mining plans.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the study find?</strong></h2>

<p>The study published in the Nature Journal npj Ocean Sustainability shows that the migration patterns of tuna would likely alter due to climate change. Three species of tuna and the future biomass of these types of fish were studied in two climate change scenarios with the emissions being moderate and one with high emissions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the study, the total biomass of bigeye (10-11 per cent), skipjack (30-31 per cent) and yellowfish tuna (23 per cent) will increase by 2050 in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/more-than-5000-new-species-discovered-in-planned-mining-zone-of-pacific-ocean-596583">Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ)</a>, an area of the Pacific Ocean south-east of Hawaii, which may soon be subjected to deep-sea mining operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study’s co-author Dr Juliano Palacios Abrantes from the University of British Columbia said, “The high seas harbour a trove of biodiversity, and there are critical sectors of our economy that depend on this biodiversity.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “There is already uncertainty about the impact of climate change on the health and geographic range of tuna. Deep-sea mining will only add to this uncertainty, further threatening tuna species and associated fisheries.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Impact on fish</strong></h2>

<p>Some of the potential <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deep-sea-mining-pose-risk-to-ocean-ecosystems-study-561965">impacts</a> on the fish, according to the study, could be plumes of sediment, which can travel long distances, preventing feeding or visual communication, not to mention the possible absorption of toxic metals by the species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, noise and light pollution from mining activities could disrupt behaviour, affect reproduction rates, cause stress and force changes in migratory routes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Seafood industry and deep-mining</strong></h2>

<p>The CCZ could potentially also become a battleground between some of the world’s most valuable fisheries and mining companies. Global Tuna Alliance, which accounts for 32 per cent of global tuna sales, joined hands with the Sustainable Seafood Coalition, made up of 45 British seafood firms, to criticise the 167-nation, United Nations body which regulates seabeds on the high seas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The groups, citing the study, have expressed deep concern over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-shows-deep-sea-mining-could-disrupt-a-whales-ability-to-communicate-562127">potential impacts</a> of deep-sea mining on sustainable fisheries considering the “significant overlap” between the location of future fishing grounds and areas licensed for mineral exploration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The groups have called for a halt ahead of the next <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-row-erupts-amid-talks-to-regulate-seabed-mining-heres-what-happened-574488">International Seabed Authority (ISA)</a> meeting&nbsp;later this month given the environmental and economic risks. “In the vast expanse of the high seas, critical for tuna species, we find ourselves sailing into uncharted territory with the unknown risks posed by deep-sea mining,” said the executive director at Global Tuna Alliance, Daniel Suddaby.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, the co-author of the study, Professor Douglas McCauley said, “These fishing grounds may be distant, but the food they produce is consumed by millions. We would be horrified at dumping mining waste across our food-producing regions on land.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that decisions which could “significantly harm” ocean ecosystems, essential not only for the environment but also for planetary health and global food security, should not be rushed.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A study published on Tuesday (July 11) found that deep-sea mining could interfere with the expected change of migration patterns of tuna driven by climate change, to areas of the Pacific where mining activities are set to take place.

A study published on Tuesday (July 11) found that deep-sea mining could interfere with the expected change of migration patterns of tuna driven by climate change, to areas of the Pacific where mining activities are set to take place. The findings of the research were published alongside a letter by the seafood groups calling for a halt to deep-sea mining plans. What did the study find? The study published in the Nature Journal npj Ocean Sustainability shows that the migration patterns of tuna would likely alter due to climate change. Three species of tuna and the future biomass of these types of fish were studied in two climate change scenarios with the emissions being moderate and one with high emissions. According to the study, the total biomass of bigeye (10-11 per cent), skipjack (30-31 per cent) and yellowfish tuna (23 per cent) will increase by 2050 in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), an area of the Pacific Ocean south-east of Hawaii, which may soon be subjected to deep-sea mining operations. The study’s co-author Dr Juliano Palacios Abrantes from the University of British Columbia said, “The high seas harbour a trove of biodiversity, and there are critical sectors of our economy that depend on this biodiversity.” He added, “There is already uncertainty about the impact of climate change on the health and geographic range of tuna. Deep-sea mining will only add to this uncertainty, further threatening tuna species and associated fisheries.” Impact on fish Some of the potential impacts on the fish, according to the study, could be plumes of sediment, which can travel long distances, preventing feeding or visual communication, not to mention the possible absorption of toxic metals by the species. Additionally, noise and light pollution from mining activities could disrupt behaviour, affect reproduction rates, cause stress and force changes in migratory routes. Seafood industry and deep-mining The CCZ could potentially also become a battleground between some of the world’s most valuable fisheries and mining companies. Global Tuna Alliance, which accounts for 32 per cent of global tuna sales, joined hands with the Sustainable Seafood Coalition, made up of 45 British seafood firms, to criticise the 167-nation, United Nations body which regulates seabeds on the high seas. The groups, citing the study, have expressed deep concern over the potential impacts of deep-sea mining on sustainable fisheries considering the “significant overlap” between the location of future fishing grounds and areas licensed for mineral exploration. The groups have called for a halt ahead of the next International Seabed Authority (ISA) meeting later this month given the environmental and economic risks. “In the vast expanse of the high seas, critical for tuna species, we find ourselves sailing into uncharted territory with the unknown risks posed by deep-sea mining,” said the executive director at Global Tuna Alliance, Daniel Suddaby. Similarly, the co-author of the study, Professor Douglas McCauley said, “These fishing grounds may be distant, but the food they produce is consumed by millions. We would be horrified at dumping mining waste across our food-producing regions on land.” He added that decisions which could “significantly harm” ocean ecosystems, essential not only for the environment but also for planetary health and global food security, should not be rushed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Seafood industry opposes deep-sea mining plans as study shows potential impact on tuna fisheries

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<p>The pale blue dot in the vast darkness of universe, also referred to as Earth or our home planet has been around for billions of years. Alone in its orbital stillness, the planet has undergone a multitude of changes. Its layers carry evidence of ice age, dinosaurs roaming around, asteroid hits, mass extinctions, continental ruptures and whatnot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Humans, who have been around a tiny fraction of that time on the cosmic scale, have also made a significant impact on the planet. Now, a special team of scientists has pointed out the timeframe when the new geologic epoch began, influenced by us - the Homo sapiens.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;Anthropocene?</strong></h2>

<p>Members of the Anthropocene Working Group on Tuesday designated a small body of water near Toronto, Canada as ground zero for the Anthropocene. The word derived from Greek terms for "human" and "new" refers to the current geological age of the planet when human activity has been the dominant influence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The data states that Earth moved into its new age about 73 years ago (1950). The layered sediments deposited at the bottom of Crawford Lake — laced with microplastics, fly-ash spread by burning oil and coal, and the detritus of nuclear bomb explosions, is being regarded as the global example of the beginning of the Anthropocene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The data show a clear shift from the mid-20th century, taking Earth’s system beyond the normal bounds of the Holocene," said working group member Andy Cundy, a professor at the University of Southampton, referring to the epoch that began 11,700 years ago after the end of ice age.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The sediment found at the bottom of the Crawford Lake provides an exquisite record of recent environmental change over the last millennia,” said Simon Turner, chairman of the working group.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/welcome-to-the-anthropocene-earths-new-chapter-613872" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Welcome to the Anthropocene, Earth's new chapter</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>How did scientists find out the baseline?</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists are linking the new epoch to what is known as the Great Acceleration. It is the period after World War II when human activity went into overdrive. The population surged, industries expanded, more fossil fuels started to burn, nitrogen-based fertilisers became the norm and weapons of&nbsp;mass destruction i.e.&nbsp;nuclear bombs were tested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The scientists arrived at the conclusion that plutonium cast off by hydrogen bomb tests provided that global fingerprint.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The clearest marker for a single year – which gives an abrupt and effectively instantaneous snapshot – is plutonium, because there’s so little of it naturally present," said&nbsp;Cundy,&nbsp;referring to the year 1952 when the US first detonated a huge hydrogen bomb in the Marshall Islands which could become the new epoch's boundary year.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-biodiversity-suffers-from-global-warming-548103"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Biodiversity suffers from global warming</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Crawford Lake's competition</strong></h2>

<p>Crawford Lake was up against 11 other environmental spaces, spanning five continents, including Antarctica, to be regarded as the ground zero of human footprint. The scientists involved in the study said they were surprised that each of the 12 sites consistently showed the global marks of human activity. Combing them, it paints a clear picture that humans have caused a rapid change to the environment in a very short period of time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the scientists are able to have their way, they may proclaim that the planet has entered the Crawfordian age (named after the lake of course, following the protocol). However, the recommendations must be approved by a supermajority vote of two separate committees before final validation by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS).</p>

<h2><strong>Point of no return?</strong></h2>

<p>Succinctly put, the Crawfordian age represents the point of no return in geological terms. The planet endured a long period of climate stability where human civilisation was able to grow but the future might not hold similar conditions for the generations to come.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such has been the devastating impact of humans on Earth that last month, a new study published in Geophysical Research Letters, a journal by the American Geophysical Union stated that the planet had tilted as much as 80 centimetres (31.5 inches) between 1993 and 2010. The reason was attributed to humans pumping out indiscriminate amounts of groundwater and moving it elsewhere.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/surprised-and-concerned-scientists-find-groundwater-extracted-by-humans-has-shifted-earths-tilt-606665" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | ‘Surprised and concerned’: Scientists find groundwater extracted by humans has shifted tilt of Earth’s axis</strong></a></p>

<p>Climate change has become a routine phenomenon during this epoch. Currently, USA's southwestern states are sweltering under extreme heat with temperatures touching three figures. Meanwhile, in India, China, Japan and other Asian countries, floods have devastated human lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The power of humans is being classed in the same category as the meteorite that crashed into Earth 66 million years ago and wiped out dinosaurs, starting the Cenozoic Era.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the first time in Earth's history, a single species has not only radically changed the planet's morphology, chemistry and biology, but is aware of having done so. And yet, little to nothing is being done to reverse the damage. The scientists may or may not be able to convince their peers towards the Anthropocene, mostly on technical grounds but one thing is clear, the Earth has changed, and not for good reasons.&nbsp;</p>

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The pale blue dot in the vast darkness of universe, also referred to as Earth or our home planet has been around for billions of years. Alone in its orbital stillness, the planet has undergone a multitude of changes.

The pale blue dot in the vast darkness of universe, also referred to as Earth or our home planet has been around for billions of years. Alone in its orbital stillness, the planet has undergone a multitude of changes. Its layers carry evidence of ice age, dinosaurs roaming around, asteroid hits, mass extinctions, continental ruptures and whatnot. Humans, who have been around a tiny fraction of that time on the cosmic scale, have also made a significant impact on the planet. Now, a special team of scientists has pointed out the timeframe when the new geologic epoch began, influenced by us - the Homo sapiens. What is Anthropocene? Members of the Anthropocene Working Group on Tuesday designated a small body of water near Toronto, Canada as ground zero for the Anthropocene. The word derived from Greek terms for "human" and "new" refers to the current geological age of the planet when human activity has been the dominant influence. The data states that Earth moved into its new age about 73 years ago (1950). The layered sediments deposited at the bottom of Crawford Lake — laced with microplastics, fly-ash spread by burning oil and coal, and the detritus of nuclear bomb explosions, is being regarded as the global example of the beginning of the Anthropocene. “The data show a clear shift from the mid-20th century, taking Earth’s system beyond the normal bounds of the Holocene," said working group member Andy Cundy, a professor at the University of Southampton, referring to the epoch that began 11,700 years ago after the end of ice age. “The sediment found at the bottom of the Crawford Lake provides an exquisite record of recent environmental change over the last millennia,” said Simon Turner, chairman of the working group. Also read | Welcome to the Anthropocene, Earth's new chapter How did scientists find out the baseline? Scientists are linking the new epoch to what is known as the Great Acceleration. It is the period after World War II when human activity went into overdrive. The population surged, industries expanded, more fossil fuels started to burn, nitrogen-based fertilisers became the norm and weapons of mass destruction i.e. nuclear bombs were tested. The scientists arrived at the conclusion that plutonium cast off by hydrogen bomb tests provided that global fingerprint. “The clearest marker for a single year – which gives an abrupt and effectively instantaneous snapshot – is plutonium, because there’s so little of it naturally present," said Cundy, referring to the year 1952 when the US first detonated a huge hydrogen bomb in the Marshall Islands which could become the new epoch's boundary year. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Biodiversity suffers from global warming × Crawford Lake's competition Crawford Lake was up against 11 other environmental spaces, spanning five continents, including Antarctica, to be regarded as the ground zero of human footprint. The scientists involved in the study said they were surprised that each of the 12 sites consistently showed the global marks of human activity. Combing them, it paints a clear picture that humans have caused a rapid change to the environment in a very short period of time. If the scientists are able to have their way, they may proclaim that the planet has entered the Crawfordian age (named after the lake of course, following the protocol). However, the recommendations must be approved by a supermajority vote of two separate committees before final validation by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS). Point of no return? Succinctly put, the Crawfordian age represents the point of no return in geological terms. The planet endured a long period of climate stability where human civilisation was able to grow but the future might not hold similar conditions for the generations to come. Such has been the devastating impact of humans on Earth that last month, a new study published in Geophysical Research Letters, a journal by the American Geophysical Union stated that the planet had tilted as much as 80 centimetres (31.5 inches) between 1993 and 2010. The reason was attributed to humans pumping out indiscriminate amounts of groundwater and moving it elsewhere. Also read | ‘Surprised and concerned’: Scientists find groundwater extracted by humans has shifted tilt of Earth’s axis Climate change has become a routine phenomenon during this epoch. Currently, USA's southwestern states are sweltering under extreme heat with temperatures touching three figures. Meanwhile, in India, China, Japan and other Asian countries, floods have devastated human lives. The power of humans is being classed in the same category as the meteorite that crashed into Earth 66 million years ago and wiped out dinosaurs, starting the Cenozoic Era. For the first time in Earth's history, a single species has not only radically changed the planet's morphology, chemistry and biology, but is aware of having done so. And yet, little to nothing is being done to reverse the damage. The scientists may or may not be able to convince their peers towards the Anthropocene, mostly on technical grounds but one thing is clear, the Earth has changed, and not for good reasons. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | What is Anthropocene? The new epoch marked by damaging human impact

<p>The World Meteorological Organization observed on Monday that the beginning of July this year saw global temperature soaring to a record level. It comes hot on the heels of a record-hot June in a year where Europe has already been witnessing record droughts, with US and China facing extreme heatwaves.&nbsp;Experts believe the situation is exacerbated by an intense interaction of climate change and El-Nino weather patterns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WMO noted that temperatures were breaking records both on sea and land, leading to devastating “impacts on ecosystems and the environment”.</p>

<h2><strong>Temperature data</strong></h2>

<p>According to several media reports quoting provisional data on global temperature records, the average global temperature on July 7 was 17.24°C, which was 0.3°C above the previous record of 16.94°C on August 16 2016. Notably, 2016 was also a strong El Nino year.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yellen-urges-for-us-china-cooperation-on-climate-finance-613332"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Yellen seeks China`s cooperation on climate finance to tackle ‘existential threat’</strong></a></p>

<p>El Nino “is expected to further fuel the heat both on land and in the oceans and lead to more extreme temperatures and marine heatwaves. We are in uncharted territory and we can expect more records to fall as El Nino develops further and these impacts will extend into 2024. This is worrying news for the planet,” said Prof. Christopher Hewitt, WMO Director of Climate Services, in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;The economics of climate change in India</strong></p>

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<p>Michael Sparrow, chief of the world climate research programme at the WMO, noted that the effects of El Nino would be better felt towards the end of the year.</p>

<h2><strong>Historical records tumbled last Thursday </strong></h2>

<p>According to Europe’s climate monitoring service Copernicus, last week saw global temperatures reaching historic high levels, the hottest since the records began in 1940. Of all days, Thursday recorded the highest temperature.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN secretary general, António Guterres, said that “the situation we are witnessing now is the demonstration that climate change is out of control”.</p>

<p>Certain regions, such as parts of Canada, the United States, Mexico, Asia, and eastern Australia, experienced significant temperature increases compared to usual patterns. However, a few areas, including western Australia, the western US, and western Russia, were cooler than average.</p>

<h2><strong>High temperatures leading to deaths</strong></h2>

<p>The elevated temperatures have resulted in various health issues among people, ranging from heatstroke and dehydration to cardiovascular strain.</p>

<p>A recent study, released on Monday, revealed that Europe's exceptionally hot summer of 2022 led to more than 61,000 heat-related fatalities. The research, published in the journal <em>Nature Medicine</em>, highlighted that the majority of deaths occurred among individuals aged 80 or above. Additionally, approximately 63 per cent of those who succumbed to the heat were women.</p>

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The World Meteorological Organization observed on Monday that the beginning of July this year saw global temperature soaring to a record level. It comes hot on the heels of a record-hot June in a year where Europe has already been witnessing record droughts, with US and China facing extreme heatwaves.

The World Meteorological Organization observed on Monday that the beginning of July this year saw global temperature soaring to a record level. It comes hot on the heels of a record-hot June in a year where Europe has already been witnessing record droughts, with US and China facing extreme heatwaves. Experts believe the situation is exacerbated by an intense interaction of climate change and El-Nino weather patterns. WMO noted that temperatures were breaking records both on sea and land, leading to devastating “impacts on ecosystems and the environment”. Temperature data According to several media reports quoting provisional data on global temperature records, the average global temperature on July 7 was 17.24°C, which was 0.3°C above the previous record of 16.94°C on August 16 2016. Notably, 2016 was also a strong El Nino year. Also read: Yellen seeks China`s cooperation on climate finance to tackle ‘existential threat’ El Nino “is expected to further fuel the heat both on land and in the oceans and lead to more extreme temperatures and marine heatwaves. We are in uncharted territory and we can expect more records to fall as El Nino develops further and these impacts will extend into 2024. This is worrying news for the planet,” said Prof. Christopher Hewitt, WMO Director of Climate Services, in a statement. Watch: The economics of climate change in India × Michael Sparrow, chief of the world climate research programme at the WMO, noted that the effects of El Nino would be better felt towards the end of the year. Historical records tumbled last Thursday According to Europe’s climate monitoring service Copernicus, last week saw global temperatures reaching historic high levels, the hottest since the records began in 1940. Of all days, Thursday recorded the highest temperature. The UN secretary general, António Guterres, said that “the situation we are witnessing now is the demonstration that climate change is out of control”. Certain regions, such as parts of Canada, the United States, Mexico, Asia, and eastern Australia, experienced significant temperature increases compared to usual patterns. However, a few areas, including western Australia, the western US, and western Russia, were cooler than average. High temperatures leading to deaths The elevated temperatures have resulted in various health issues among people, ranging from heatstroke and dehydration to cardiovascular strain. A recent study, released on Monday, revealed that Europe's exceptionally hot summer of 2022 led to more than 61,000 heat-related fatalities. The research, published in the journal Nature Medicine, highlighted that the majority of deaths occurred among individuals aged 80 or above. Additionally, approximately 63 per cent of those who succumbed to the heat were women. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Climate change out of control': First week of July declared hottest on record

<p>Over 61,000 people died as a result of extreme heat during Europe's record-breaking summer last year, according to a study published on Monday (July 11). The study calls for increased efforts to protect against even deadlier heatwaves that are expected in the coming years.</p>

<p>Europe experienced its hottest summer on record in 2022, with blistering heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires affecting several countries. While the European Union's statistics agency, Eurostat, had previously reported a high number of excess deaths during the summer, the specific deaths directly linked to the heat had not been quantified until now.</p>

<h2><strong>Deaths due to Europe's hottest summer</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and France's health research institute INSERM analysed temperature and mortality data from 2015 to 2022 for 823 regions across 35 European countries, covering a population of 543 million people.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a class="gs-title" data-ctorig="http://www.wionews.com/trending/hotter-than-ever-earth-sets-third-heat-record-in-a-week-613405" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=http://www.wionews.com/trending/hotter-than-ever-earth-sets-third-heat-record-in-a-week-613405&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiKvbv36oSAAxViUWwGHZsgAa4QFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2OPurcd1MvmGiYsUclxswF" dir="ltr" href="http://www.wionews.com/trending/hotter-than-ever-earth-sets-third-heat-record-in-a-week-613405" target="_blank">Hotter than ever: Earth sets third heat record in a week</a> </strong></p>

<p>Using models, they estimated the weekly number of deaths attributable to temperature for each region during the summer of 2022.</p>

<p>The study revealed that 61,672 deaths were linked to the heat between May 30 and September 4 of that year. The week of July 18-24 alone accounted for over 11,600 deaths due to an intense heatwave.</p>

<p>Hicham Achebak, an INSERM researcher and co-author of the study, described the number of deaths as "very high" and emphasised the need for further measures to protect the population.</p>

<p>Talking to AFP, he said: "We knew the effect of heat on mortality after 2003, but with this analysis, we see that there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to protect the population."</p>

<h2><strong>Which regions were the hottest?</strong></h2>

<p>The study highlighted that France — a jump of 2.43 degrees Celsius — experienced the largest increase in heat compared to its previous summer average, followed closely by Switzerland (2.30C), Italy (2.28C), and Hungary (2.13C).</p>

<p>Italy at 18,010, however, recorded the highest death toll associated with the heat, followed by Spain (11,324) and Germany (8,173).</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a class="gs-title" data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/torrid-summer-hits-chinas-northern-cities-612658" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/torrid-summer-hits-chinas-northern-cities-612658&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJwueK64SAAxUFg2MGHWpTD3I4FBAWegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw33bVVNAthsDN4jdsILEao6" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/torrid-summer-hits-chinas-northern-cities-612658" target="_blank">Torrid summer hits China's northern cities</a> </strong></p>

<p>While the majority of deaths occurred among individuals over the age of 80, overall, women represented around 63 per cent of the heat-related fatalities.</p>

<p>The gender disparity became more significant in the 80-plus age group, with women having a mortality rate 27 per cent higher than men.</p>

<h2><strong>Future heat projections</strong></h2>

<p>The research predicted future scenarios if no action is taken to protect people from rising temperatures. As per the study, by 2030, Europe could witness over 68,000 heat-related deaths every summer.</p>

<p>By 2040, this number could rise to over 94,000, and by 2050, it could surpass 120,000.</p>

<p>"These predictions are based on the current level of vulnerability and future temperatures," said Achebak adding that "if we take very effective measures, that vulnerability can be reduced."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Over 61,000 people died as a result of extreme heat during Europe's record-breaking summer last year, according to a study published on Monday (July 11). The study calls for increased efforts to protect against even deadlier heatwaves that are expected in the coming years.

Over 61,000 people died as a result of extreme heat during Europe's record-breaking summer last year, according to a study published on Monday (July 11). The study calls for increased efforts to protect against even deadlier heatwaves that are expected in the coming years. Europe experienced its hottest summer on record in 2022, with blistering heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires affecting several countries. While the European Union's statistics agency, Eurostat, had previously reported a high number of excess deaths during the summer, the specific deaths directly linked to the heat had not been quantified until now. Deaths due to Europe's hottest summer Researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and France's health research institute INSERM analysed temperature and mortality data from 2015 to 2022 for 823 regions across 35 European countries, covering a population of 543 million people. Also read | Hotter than ever: Earth sets third heat record in a week Using models, they estimated the weekly number of deaths attributable to temperature for each region during the summer of 2022. The study revealed that 61,672 deaths were linked to the heat between May 30 and September 4 of that year. The week of July 18-24 alone accounted for over 11,600 deaths due to an intense heatwave. Hicham Achebak, an INSERM researcher and co-author of the study, described the number of deaths as "very high" and emphasised the need for further measures to protect the population. Talking to AFP, he said: "We knew the effect of heat on mortality after 2003, but with this analysis, we see that there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to protect the population." Which regions were the hottest? The study highlighted that France — a jump of 2.43 degrees Celsius — experienced the largest increase in heat compared to its previous summer average, followed closely by Switzerland (2.30C), Italy (2.28C), and Hungary (2.13C). Italy at 18,010, however, recorded the highest death toll associated with the heat, followed by Spain (11,324) and Germany (8,173). Also read | Torrid summer hits China's northern cities While the majority of deaths occurred among individuals over the age of 80, overall, women represented around 63 per cent of the heat-related fatalities. The gender disparity became more significant in the 80-plus age group, with women having a mortality rate 27 per cent higher than men. Future heat projections The research predicted future scenarios if no action is taken to protect people from rising temperatures. As per the study, by 2030, Europe could witness over 68,000 heat-related deaths every summer. By 2040, this number could rise to over 94,000, and by 2050, it could surpass 120,000. "These predictions are based on the current level of vulnerability and future temperatures," said Achebak adding that "if we take very effective measures, that vulnerability can be reduced." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Heat-related deaths in Europe soared to over 61,000 during record-breaking summer, study shows

<p>On July 6, Earth experienced a new unofficial record high average temperature, marking the third milestone in a week of scorching temperatures that made it the hottest period on record.</p>

<p>According to data from the University of Maine's Climate Reanalyzer, the global average temperature reached 63 degrees Fahrenheit (17.23 degrees Celsius), surpassing the previous marks of 62.9 degrees Fahrenheit and 17.18 degrees Celsius set earlier in the week, reported the Associated Press.</p>

<p>While the accuracy of the Maine tool's findings has been questioned by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the data aligns with concerning climate change patterns observed worldwide.</p>

<h2><strong>Sweltering heatwaves and unusual warmth</strong></h2>

<p>The global average temperature includes regions enduring extreme and hazardous heatwaves, such as Jingxing, China, where temperatures soared to nearly 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 degrees Celsius).</p>

<p>Additionally, even traditionally colder areas like Antarctica experienced unusually warm conditions, with temperatures up to eight degrees Fahrenheit (4.5 degrees Celsius) above normal across much of the continent this week.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/data-lab-india-feels-the-heat-what-happens-if-the-current-warming-trend-continues-600497">Data Lab | India feels the heat: What happens if the current heatwave trend continues?</a></p>

<h2><strong>NOAA's cautionary note and climate change</strong></h2>

<p>While NOAA expressed reservations about validating the University of Maine's analysis and its reliance on computer modeling, the agency acknowledged the ongoing warm period resulting from climate change. The Maine data, although not officially confirmed, has been widely viewed as another distressing indicator of the global climate crisis. Climate scientists have voiced their lack of surprise at the unofficial temperature records, highlighting the urgent need for action.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Global warming heating up land &amp; sea as earth's temperature rises</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Call for action amid&nbsp;lack of commitment</strong></h2>

<p>Robert Watson, a scientist and former chairman of the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, who spoke to the Associated Press,&nbsp;criticised the insufficient commitment of governments, the private sector, and citizens in addressing climate change. He noted that demands for cheap energy and food without considering the true costs hinder progress. The cost of tackling climate change often goes unacknowledged, impeding efforts to address the underlying causes and mitigate its impact.</p>

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On July 6, Earth experienced a new unofficial record high average temperature, marking the third milestone in a week of scorching temperatures that made it the hottest period on record.

On July 6, Earth experienced a new unofficial record high average temperature, marking the third milestone in a week of scorching temperatures that made it the hottest period on record. According to data from the University of Maine's Climate Reanalyzer, the global average temperature reached 63 degrees Fahrenheit (17.23 degrees Celsius), surpassing the previous marks of 62.9 degrees Fahrenheit and 17.18 degrees Celsius set earlier in the week, reported the Associated Press. While the accuracy of the Maine tool's findings has been questioned by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the data aligns with concerning climate change patterns observed worldwide. Sweltering heatwaves and unusual warmth The global average temperature includes regions enduring extreme and hazardous heatwaves, such as Jingxing, China, where temperatures soared to nearly 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 degrees Celsius). Additionally, even traditionally colder areas like Antarctica experienced unusually warm conditions, with temperatures up to eight degrees Fahrenheit (4.5 degrees Celsius) above normal across much of the continent this week. Also read | Data Lab | India feels the heat: What happens if the current heatwave trend continues? NOAA's cautionary note and climate change While NOAA expressed reservations about validating the University of Maine's analysis and its reliance on computer modeling, the agency acknowledged the ongoing warm period resulting from climate change. The Maine data, although not officially confirmed, has been widely viewed as another distressing indicator of the global climate crisis. Climate scientists have voiced their lack of surprise at the unofficial temperature records, highlighting the urgent need for action. Also watch | Global warming heating up land & sea as earth's temperature rises Call for action amid lack of commitment Robert Watson, a scientist and former chairman of the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, who spoke to the Associated Press, criticised the insufficient commitment of governments, the private sector, and citizens in addressing climate change. He noted that demands for cheap energy and food without considering the true costs hinder progress. The cost of tackling climate change often goes unacknowledged, impeding efforts to address the underlying causes and mitigate its impact. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hotter than ever: Earth sets new heat record for the third time in a week

<p>US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on her third day of the China trip said it is 'critical' for Washington and Beijing to work together on climate finance.&nbsp; Addressing a roundtable of experts, Yellen called global warming an "existential threat"&nbsp;and urged for&nbsp;deeper cooperation between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Continued U.S.-China cooperation on climate finance is critical. As the world's two largest emitters of greenhouse gases and the largest investors in renewable energy, we have both a joint responsibility –- and ability -– to lead the way," said Jellen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Climate change is at the top of the list of global challenges, and the United States and China must work together to address this existential threat," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yellen pressed Beijing to support environmental, multilateral institutions like the Green Climate Fund and called upon the private sector to transition towards net zero.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"Financing for such initiatives should be coordinated efficiently and effectively," she said, adding that Beijing's support for existing multilateral climate institutions like the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Climate Investment Funds, alongside the Washington and others, could boost their impact.</p>

<p>"Both our economies seek to support partners in emerging markets and developing countries as they strive to meet their climate goals, and I believe continued US-China cooperation on climate finance is critical."<br />
<br />
China&nbsp;resists&nbsp;paying into such funds, arguing that it is also a developing nation.&nbsp;Beijing&nbsp;says it is the responsibility of the developed&nbsp;nations to help poor countries to address climate change.</p>

<h2><strong>Good cop, bad cop</strong></h2>

<p>Yellen's trip to China is being seen as an attempt to repair the broken ties between the two countries, according to experts. Throughout the trip, Yellen has been playing the good cop, bad cop routine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, during one of the addresses, Yellen criticised&nbsp;China's punitive measures against US companies but added that complete decoupling of the US and Chinese economies was "impossible".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We seek to diversify, not to decouple. A decoupling of the world's two largest economies would be destabilising for the global economy," Yellen told representatives of US businesses at a session hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Beijing.</p>

<p>"And it would be virtually impossible to undertake."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Xi Jinping sees red as US&nbsp;aims to curtail technology investment in China | Yellen in Beijing</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Avoid misunderstandings: Yellen</strong></h2>

<p>Shortly after the arrival, Yellen posted a series of tweets wherein she hoped that Washington and Beijing are able to 'communicate and avoid miscommunication'.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">"We seek a healthy economic competition that benefits American workers and firms and to collaborate on global challenges," Yellen wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">"We will take action to protect our national security when needed, and this trip presents an opportunity to communicate and avoid miscommunication or misunderstanding."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3"><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/avoid-miscommunication-yellen-after-arriving-in-beijing-on-four-day-trip-612907"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Avoid miscommunication...': Yellen after arriving in Beijing on four-day trip</strong></a></p>

<p>Yellen's visit to China comes a few weeks after&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken travelled to Beijing and met President Xi Jinping.&nbsp;The Biden administration, in recent months, has set about to thaw the icing relations after the US military shot down a Chinese government spy balloon over the United States.</p>

<p>With Biden likely to meet Xi at&nbsp;the G20 Summit in New Delhi in September, the groundwork is being laid out by the visit of top leaders, to ensure a smooth channel of communication is developed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on her third day of the China trip said it is 'critical' for Washington and Beijing to work together on climate finance. Addressing a roundtable of experts, Yellen called global warming an "existential threat" and urged for deeper cooperation between the two nations.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on her third day of the China trip said it is 'critical' for Washington and Beijing to work together on climate finance. Addressing a roundtable of experts, Yellen called global warming an "existential threat" and urged for deeper cooperation between the two nations. "Continued U.S.-China cooperation on climate finance is critical. As the world's two largest emitters of greenhouse gases and the largest investors in renewable energy, we have both a joint responsibility –- and ability -– to lead the way," said Jellen. "Climate change is at the top of the list of global challenges, and the United States and China must work together to address this existential threat," she added. Yellen pressed Beijing to support environmental, multilateral institutions like the Green Climate Fund and called upon the private sector to transition towards net zero. "Financing for such initiatives should be coordinated efficiently and effectively," she said, adding that Beijing's support for existing multilateral climate institutions like the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Climate Investment Funds, alongside the Washington and others, could boost their impact. "Both our economies seek to support partners in emerging markets and developing countries as they strive to meet their climate goals, and I believe continued US-China cooperation on climate finance is critical." China resists paying into such funds, arguing that it is also a developing nation. Beijing says it is the responsibility of the developed nations to help poor countries to address climate change. Good cop, bad cop Yellen's trip to China is being seen as an attempt to repair the broken ties between the two countries, according to experts. Throughout the trip, Yellen has been playing the good cop, bad cop routine. On Friday, during one of the addresses, Yellen criticised China's punitive measures against US companies but added that complete decoupling of the US and Chinese economies was "impossible". "We seek to diversify, not to decouple. A decoupling of the world's two largest economies would be destabilising for the global economy," Yellen told representatives of US businesses at a session hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Beijing. "And it would be virtually impossible to undertake." Watch | Xi Jinping sees red as US aims to curtail technology investment in China | Yellen in Beijing × Avoid misunderstandings: Yellen Shortly after the arrival, Yellen posted a series of tweets wherein she hoped that Washington and Beijing are able to 'communicate and avoid miscommunication'. "We seek a healthy economic competition that benefits American workers and firms and to collaborate on global challenges," Yellen wrote on Twitter. "We will take action to protect our national security when needed, and this trip presents an opportunity to communicate and avoid miscommunication or misunderstanding." Also read | 'Avoid miscommunication...': Yellen after arriving in Beijing on four-day trip Yellen's visit to China comes a few weeks after Secretary of State Antony Blinken travelled to Beijing and met President Xi Jinping. The Biden administration, in recent months, has set about to thaw the icing relations after the US military shot down a Chinese government spy balloon over the United States. With Biden likely to meet Xi at the G20 Summit in New Delhi in September, the groundwork is being laid out by the visit of top leaders, to ensure a smooth channel of communication is developed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Yellen seeks China's cooperation on climate finance to tackle ‘existential threat’

<p>Scientists uncovered the remains of the smallest extinct penguin species ever found which are said to have waddled their way around New Zealand around three million years ago. The study related to the findings was published, last month, in the Journal of Paleontology.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the scientists find?</strong></h2>

<p>The two fossils were discovered by Karl Raubenheimer in the three-million-year-old sediments in the southern Taranaki region of New Zealand’s North Island. According to the study, the fossilised skulls are said to belong to the newly discovered species, named Wilson’s little penguin <em>(Eudyptula wilsonae)</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fossils were analysed by a team led by the Massey University of New Zealand and found that the nearly complete skulls belonged to an adult and a fledged juvenile who determined that they appear to be a part of the little penguin <em>(Eudyptula minor)</em> lineage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The skulls are remarkably similar in both size and shape to little penguins which exist today and are the smallest living species of penguin. The researchers were unsure about how small the extinct penguins were since they did not find any other bones, however, the living penguins typically grow around 35 centimetres and weigh 0.9 kilograms.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the researchers say about the discovery?</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, the researchers said that the findings help confirm the Zealandian origin of the little penguins as well as their presence during the Neogene period. Currently, little penguins and their four subspecies live across New Zealand, Australia and Tasmania but very little was known about their origins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists also wrote about how the recent findings have helped fill the gaps in this ecosystem’s history as well as provide insights into other extinct and living species from the country. “These newly discovered fossils show little penguins like kororā have been part of coastal ecosystems of Zealandia for at least three million years,” said Dr Daniel Thomas, a zoologist at Massey University in New Zealand, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “This is important when thinking about the origins of these penguins, the evolution of the seabird diversity of Aotearoa and the dynamic environment in which they live.” This comes as in June 2022, over 500 little penguins mysteriously washed up dead on beaches in New Zealand, reported Live Science.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the researchers were unsure of what killed them, it was speculated that climate change may have played a role. It was also found that most of the dead seabirds were significantly underweight which had been attributed to the hotter ocean surface temperatures, caused by climate change, that might have driven the little penguins’ prey further away from their reach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The rising temperature means more species will find Aotearoa habitable, so it’s important to learn as much as we can about the species that lived here during the last warm-world phase,” said Dr Thomas.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Scientists uncovered the remains of the smallest extinct penguin species ever found which are said to have waddled their way around New Zealand around three million years ago.

Scientists uncovered the remains of the smallest extinct penguin species ever found which are said to have waddled their way around New Zealand around three million years ago. The study related to the findings was published, last month, in the Journal of Paleontology. What did the scientists find? The two fossils were discovered by Karl Raubenheimer in the three-million-year-old sediments in the southern Taranaki region of New Zealand’s North Island. According to the study, the fossilised skulls are said to belong to the newly discovered species, named Wilson’s little penguin (Eudyptula wilsonae). The fossils were analysed by a team led by the Massey University of New Zealand and found that the nearly complete skulls belonged to an adult and a fledged juvenile who determined that they appear to be a part of the little penguin (Eudyptula minor) lineage. The skulls are remarkably similar in both size and shape to little penguins which exist today and are the smallest living species of penguin. The researchers were unsure about how small the extinct penguins were since they did not find any other bones, however, the living penguins typically grow around 35 centimetres and weigh 0.9 kilograms. What did the researchers say about the discovery? In a statement, the researchers said that the findings help confirm the Zealandian origin of the little penguins as well as their presence during the Neogene period. Currently, little penguins and their four subspecies live across New Zealand, Australia and Tasmania but very little was known about their origins. Scientists also wrote about how the recent findings have helped fill the gaps in this ecosystem’s history as well as provide insights into other extinct and living species from the country. “These newly discovered fossils show little penguins like kororā have been part of coastal ecosystems of Zealandia for at least three million years,” said Dr Daniel Thomas, a zoologist at Massey University in New Zealand, in a statement. He added, “This is important when thinking about the origins of these penguins, the evolution of the seabird diversity of Aotearoa and the dynamic environment in which they live.” This comes as in June 2022, over 500 little penguins mysteriously washed up dead on beaches in New Zealand, reported Live Science. While the researchers were unsure of what killed them, it was speculated that climate change may have played a role. It was also found that most of the dead seabirds were significantly underweight which had been attributed to the hotter ocean surface temperatures, caused by climate change, that might have driven the little penguins’ prey further away from their reach. “The rising temperature means more species will find Aotearoa habitable, so it’s important to learn as much as we can about the species that lived here during the last warm-world phase,” said Dr Thomas. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists discover remains of smallest of its kind, extinct penguin species

The Guardian revealed that the British government was going back on its flagship climate and nature funding pledge worth $14.7 billion. The disclosure came from leaked documents. But the government has refuted the claims. How will it uphold its promise? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: UK making a U-turn on its climate pledge?

<p>The latest data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction reveals that global temperatures have reached a new record, emphasising the alarming consequences of continually rising greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels.</p>

<p>On Monday, the average global temperature soared to 17°C (63°F), surpassing the previous record of 16.9°C set in August 2016. This new milestone highlights the exceptional intensity of the summer experienced in the northern hemisphere in 2023, serving as a stark reminder of the sluggish global efforts in addressing emissions reduction.</p>

<h2><strong>Achievement not deserving of celebration</strong></h2>

<p>“This is not a milestone we should be celebrating, it's a death sentence for people and ecosystems,” Friederike Otto, a senior lecturer&nbsp;at the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment told Bloomberg. “Worryingly, it won't be the hottest day for a long time.”&nbsp;The&nbsp;El Niño weather phenomenon&nbsp;is set to push&nbsp;global temperatures higher, she said.</p>

<p>Explaining the crisis, Zeke Hausfather, a research scientist at Berkeley Earth, told the Guardian:&nbsp;“Unfortunately, it promises to only be the first in a series of new records set this year as increasing emissions of (carbon dioxide) and greenhouse gases, coupled with a growing El Nino event, push temperatures to new highs.”</p>

<p>During the period between 1979 and 2000, the world's average air temperature typically ranged from approximately 12 degrees Celsius to just below 17 degrees Celsius throughout the year. However, at the start of July, the average temperature reached 16.2 degrees Celsius, marking a significant deviation from the norm.</p>

<p>While this record is yet to be validated by other measurements, it is highly likely that it will be surpassed in the coming weeks as the summer season intensifies in the northern hemisphere. Historically, the average global temperature continues to climb until the end of July or early August.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;China issues warnings of extreme weather conditions for coming months</strong></p>

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<p>Even in the previous month, average global temperatures for the start of June were the highest ever recorded by the European Union's Copernicus climate monitoring unit, indicating an alarming trend of increasing warmth.</p>

<h2><strong>Heatwave in southern United States</strong></h2>

<p>The southern United States has been grappling with a significant surge in temperatures, as a scorching heatwave persists for the past three weeks. Stretching from Florida to Arizona, this deadly heatwave has subjected the region to triple-digit temperatures. Meanwhile, China continues to endure a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures surpassing 35°C (95°F). North Africa, too, has experienced extreme heat, with temperatures nearing 50°C (122°F).</p>

<p>Even in Antarctica, where it is currently winter, unusually high temperatures have been recorded. Ukraine's Vernadsky Research Base, situated in the Argentine Islands of the icy continent, recently broke its July temperature record, reaching 8.7°C (47.6°F). Furthermore, the United Kingdom has witnessed its hottest June this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woman-collapses-in-triple-digit-heat-while-hiking-in-grand-canyon-national-park-611991">Woman collapses in triple-digit heat while hiking in Grand Canyon National Park</a></p>

<p>The India Meteorological Department reports that southern peninsular India experienced the warmest June since 1901, with an average maximum temperature of 34.05 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>Concerns among researchers regarding escalating temperatures on both land and sea have persisted throughout this year. The global temperature recorded on Monday was the highest since satellite monitoring commenced in 1979, according to BBC reports. Experts believe it is also the highest since the widespread use of instrumental records began in the late 19th century.</p>

<h2><strong>China's heatwave situation</strong></h2>

<p>China is facing an unprecedented heatwave, as the country witnesses a record-breaking number of scorching hot days. According to the National Climate Center, China has experienced the highest number of days with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) since 1961, averaging 4.1 such days in the first half of this year, reported CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The data is based on recordings from weather stations across the country, indicating the widespread impact of the heatwave. China has already encountered four regional heatwaves this summer, which arrived earlier, were more extensive, and reached greater intensity compared to previous years, as reported by the National Climate Center.</p>

<p>The northern part of China, with its densely populated areas and millions of residents, has been particularly affected, and more heatwaves are expected in the upcoming weeks. Shijiazhuang, the capital of Hebei province, has experienced the highest number of high-temperature days so far this year, followed by Beijing.</p>

<p>In mid-June, over 200 million people in northern China endured daily temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). During the fourth and most severe heatwave from June 21 to 30, Beijing witnessed a record-breaking temperature above 41 degrees Celsius (105.8 degrees Fahrenheit), marking the hottest June day ever recorded in the capital.</p>

<p>The National Climate Center characterised this heatwave as the most extreme in China for the past ten years during June, a month typically uncommon for experiencing repeated heatwaves. The continuous and intense heat poses significant challenges for the population and calls for increased measures to address the effects of climate change.</p>

<h2><strong>Indians feel&nbsp;the heat too</strong></h2>

<p>India is one of the nations most exposed and susceptible to heat.&nbsp;<a href="https://journals.plos.org/climate/article?id=10.1371/journal.pclm.0000156">Studies</a>&nbsp;suggest that the frequency of hot days and nights&nbsp;has risen significantly, and is estimated to increase between two and four-fold by 2050. Additionally, heatwaves are also predicted to arrive earlier, last longer and occur more frequently.</p>

<p>Those working outdoors as daily-wage labourers are the worst hit during a heatwave episode. They mostly lack access to cooling amenities like fans and air conditioners and must continue working in the blistering heat to make ends meet.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/data-lab-india-feels-the-heat-what-happens-if-the-current-warming-trend-continues-600497">Data Lab | India feels the heat: What happens if the current heatwave trend continues?</a></p>

<p>“Heatwaves in India pose significant risks to human health as certain strata of society are more affected due to their socioeconomic and health conditions,” Shivang Agarwal, PhD scholar in environmental health and engineering, Johns Hopkins University told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The World Meteorological Organisation has confirmed the commencement of an El Nino weather phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, which is expected to contribute to a further increase in temperatures above historical norms in the coming year.</p>

<p>“The average global surface air temperature reaching 17°C &nbsp;for the first time since we have reliable records available is a significant symbolic milestone in our warming world,” said climate researcher Leon Simons, reported the BBC.</p>

<p>“Now that the warmer phase of El Nino is starting, we can expect a lot more daily, monthly and annual records breaking in the next 1.5 years,” he said.</p>

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The latest data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction reveals that global temperatures have reached a new record, emphasising the alarming consequences of continually rising greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels.

The latest data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction reveals that global temperatures have reached a new record, emphasising the alarming consequences of continually rising greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels. On Monday, the average global temperature soared to 17°C (63°F), surpassing the previous record of 16.9°C set in August 2016. This new milestone highlights the exceptional intensity of the summer experienced in the northern hemisphere in 2023, serving as a stark reminder of the sluggish global efforts in addressing emissions reduction. Achievement not deserving of celebration “This is not a milestone we should be celebrating, it's a death sentence for people and ecosystems,” Friederike Otto, a senior lecturer at the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment told Bloomberg. “Worryingly, it won't be the hottest day for a long time.” The El Niño weather phenomenon is set to push global temperatures higher, she said. Explaining the crisis, Zeke Hausfather, a research scientist at Berkeley Earth, told the Guardian: “Unfortunately, it promises to only be the first in a series of new records set this year as increasing emissions of (carbon dioxide) and greenhouse gases, coupled with a growing El Nino event, push temperatures to new highs.” During the period between 1979 and 2000, the world's average air temperature typically ranged from approximately 12 degrees Celsius to just below 17 degrees Celsius throughout the year. However, at the start of July, the average temperature reached 16.2 degrees Celsius, marking a significant deviation from the norm. While this record is yet to be validated by other measurements, it is highly likely that it will be surpassed in the coming weeks as the summer season intensifies in the northern hemisphere. Historically, the average global temperature continues to climb until the end of July or early August. WATCH | China issues warnings of extreme weather conditions for coming months Even in the previous month, average global temperatures for the start of June were the highest ever recorded by the European Union's Copernicus climate monitoring unit, indicating an alarming trend of increasing warmth. Heatwave in southern United States The southern United States has been grappling with a significant surge in temperatures, as a scorching heatwave persists for the past three weeks. Stretching from Florida to Arizona, this deadly heatwave has subjected the region to triple-digit temperatures. Meanwhile, China continues to endure a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures surpassing 35°C (95°F). North Africa, too, has experienced extreme heat, with temperatures nearing 50°C (122°F). Even in Antarctica, where it is currently winter, unusually high temperatures have been recorded. Ukraine's Vernadsky Research Base, situated in the Argentine Islands of the icy continent, recently broke its July temperature record, reaching 8.7°C (47.6°F). Furthermore, the United Kingdom has witnessed its hottest June this year. Also read | Woman collapses in triple-digit heat while hiking in Grand Canyon National Park The India Meteorological Department reports that southern peninsular India experienced the warmest June since 1901, with an average maximum temperature of 34.05 degrees Celsius. Concerns among researchers regarding escalating temperatures on both land and sea have persisted throughout this year. The global temperature recorded on Monday was the highest since satellite monitoring commenced in 1979, according to BBC reports. Experts believe it is also the highest since the widespread use of instrumental records began in the late 19th century. China's heatwave situation China is facing an unprecedented heatwave, as the country witnesses a record-breaking number of scorching hot days. According to the National Climate Center, China has experienced the highest number of days with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) since 1961, averaging 4.1 such days in the first half of this year, reported CNN. The data is based on recordings from weather stations across the country, indicating the widespread impact of the heatwave. China has already encountered four regional heatwaves this summer, which arrived earlier, were more extensive, and reached greater intensity compared to previous years, as reported by the National Climate Center. The northern part of China, with its densely populated areas and millions of residents, has been particularly affected, and more heatwaves are expected in the upcoming weeks. Shijiazhuang, the capital of Hebei province, has experienced the highest number of high-temperature days so far this year, followed by Beijing. In mid-June, over 200 million people in northern China endured daily temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). During the fourth and most severe heatwave from June 21 to 30, Beijing witnessed a record-breaking temperature above 41 degrees Celsius (105.8 degrees Fahrenheit), marking the hottest June day ever recorded in the capital. The National Climate Center characterised this heatwave as the most extreme in China for the past ten years during June, a month typically uncommon for experiencing repeated heatwaves. The continuous and intense heat poses significant challenges for the population and calls for increased measures to address the effects of climate change. Indians feel the heat too India is one of the nations most exposed and susceptible to heat. Studies suggest that the frequency of hot days and nights has risen significantly, and is estimated to increase between two and four-fold by 2050. Additionally, heatwaves are also predicted to arrive earlier, last longer and occur more frequently. Those working outdoors as daily-wage labourers are the worst hit during a heatwave episode. They mostly lack access to cooling amenities like fans and air conditioners and must continue working in the blistering heat to make ends meet. Also read | Data Lab | India feels the heat: What happens if the current heatwave trend continues? “Heatwaves in India pose significant risks to human health as certain strata of society are more affected due to their socioeconomic and health conditions,” Shivang Agarwal, PhD scholar in environmental health and engineering, Johns Hopkins University told WION. The World Meteorological Organisation has confirmed the commencement of an El Nino weather phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, which is expected to contribute to a further increase in temperatures above historical norms in the coming year. “The average global surface air temperature reaching 17°C for the first time since we have reliable records available is a significant symbolic milestone in our warming world,” said climate researcher Leon Simons, reported the BBC. “Now that the warmer phase of El Nino is starting, we can expect a lot more daily, monthly and annual records breaking in the next 1.5 years,” he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | Burning Up: Nations sizzle as temperatures reach record highs

<p>The scorching temperatures of Monday, 3 July, etched a new chapter in history as the day became the hottest one ever recorded worldwide, according to data from the US National Centers for Environmental Prediction, reported Reuters news agency. Experts are now ringing the warning bells saying this is a 'death sentence'.&nbsp;As heatwaves tightened their grip on the planet, the average global temperature soared to 17.01 degrees Celsius (62.62 Fahrenheit). This new record temperature surpassed the previous record of 16.92 degrees Celsius (62.46 Fahrenheit) set in August 2016.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A stark warning from climate scientists</strong></h2>

<p>The alarming heatwave, coupled with rising concerns over climate change, has sparked grave warnings from climate scientists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Britain's Imperial College London, emphasised that this milestone should not be celebrated. Instead, she deemed it a "death sentence" for both people and ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/discovery-of-cocaine-in-white-house-library-prompts-secret-service-investigation-611984">Discovery of cocaine in White House library prompts secret service investigation</a></p>

<p>Scientists attribute the heatwave to the combined effects of climate change and an emerging El Nino pattern, painting a dire picture for our planet's future.</p>

<h2><strong>More records to come</strong></h2>

<p>Regrettably, experts predict that this record-breaking event is only the beginning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zeke Hausfather, a research scientist at Berkeley Earth, expressed concern that increasing emissions of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases, combined with a growing El Nino event, will propel temperatures to even greater heights, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-is-completing-mission-in-west-bank-says-pm-netanyahu-death-toll-in-jenin-rises-to-11-611977">Israeli military is ‘completing mission’ in West Bank, says PM Netanyahu; death toll in Jenin rises to 11</a></p>

<p>As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, these new highs serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to protect our planet and safeguard the well-being of future generations.</p>

<h2><strong>Searing heatwave grips the Southern US and beyond</strong></h2>

<p>The southern United States has been enduring weeks of relentless heat. Meanwhile, China battled through an unrelenting heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit).&nbsp;</p>

<p>North Africa bore witness to sweltering conditions nearing a staggering 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Russia says Ukraine attacked Moscow with 5 drones</strong></p>

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<p>Astonishingly, even Antarctica, currently in its winter season, experienced abnormally high temperatures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine's Vernadsky Research Base, located in the Argentine Islands of the icy continent, shattered its July temperature record, clocking in at 8.7 degrees Celsius (47.6 degrees Fahrenheit).</p>

<h2><strong>Addressing rising temperatures&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Global efforts are required to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, improve energy efficiency and promote sustainable practices.</p>

<p>International agreements such as the Paris Agreement aim to tackle climate change by limiting global temperature rise and promoting sustainable development. But there is still a lot to be done in order to combat the soaring temperatures and its negative consequences.&nbsp;</p>

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The scorching temperatures of Monday, 3 July, etched a new chapter in history as the day became the hottest one ever recorded worldwide, according to data from the US National Centers for Environmental Prediction, reported Reuters news agency.

The scorching temperatures of Monday, 3 July, etched a new chapter in history as the day became the hottest one ever recorded worldwide, according to data from the US National Centers for Environmental Prediction, reported Reuters news agency. Experts are now ringing the warning bells saying this is a 'death sentence'. As heatwaves tightened their grip on the planet, the average global temperature soared to 17.01 degrees Celsius (62.62 Fahrenheit). This new record temperature surpassed the previous record of 16.92 degrees Celsius (62.46 Fahrenheit) set in August 2016. A stark warning from climate scientists The alarming heatwave, coupled with rising concerns over climate change, has sparked grave warnings from climate scientists. Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Britain's Imperial College London, emphasised that this milestone should not be celebrated. Instead, she deemed it a "death sentence" for both people and ecosystems. Also Read | Discovery of cocaine in White House library prompts secret service investigation Scientists attribute the heatwave to the combined effects of climate change and an emerging El Nino pattern, painting a dire picture for our planet's future. More records to come Regrettably, experts predict that this record-breaking event is only the beginning. Zeke Hausfather, a research scientist at Berkeley Earth, expressed concern that increasing emissions of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases, combined with a growing El Nino event, will propel temperatures to even greater heights, media reports said. Also Read | Israeli military is ‘completing mission’ in West Bank, says PM Netanyahu; death toll in Jenin rises to 11 As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, these new highs serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to protect our planet and safeguard the well-being of future generations. Searing heatwave grips the Southern US and beyond The southern United States has been enduring weeks of relentless heat. Meanwhile, China battled through an unrelenting heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). North Africa bore witness to sweltering conditions nearing a staggering 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). WATCH | Gravitas: Russia says Ukraine attacked Moscow with 5 drones × Astonishingly, even Antarctica, currently in its winter season, experienced abnormally high temperatures. Ukraine's Vernadsky Research Base, located in the Argentine Islands of the icy continent, shattered its July temperature record, clocking in at 8.7 degrees Celsius (47.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Addressing rising temperatures Global efforts are required to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, improve energy efficiency and promote sustainable practices. International agreements such as the Paris Agreement aim to tackle climate change by limiting global temperature rise and promoting sustainable development. But there is still a lot to be done in order to combat the soaring temperatures and its negative consequences. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Death sentence': Experts warn as world's hottest day ever recorded on 3 July

<p>Thousands of small dead fish washed ashore on the banks of the Amshan River in Majar-al Kabir in Maysan province in southeast Iraq amid blistering weather conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Linking the wildlife disaster to possible drought conditions in the area, officials on Monday announced that they'd be investigating the matter of the river, which is home to almost nine aquatic species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iraq's agricultural ministry said that it is forming a committee to look into the cause of deaths, AFP reported, citing news agency INA.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-hits-record-land-sea-temperatures-as-climate-change-fuels-2023-extremes-611641"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World hits record land, sea temperatures as climate change fuels 2023 extremes</strong></a></p>

<p>The Maysan region is home to fabled marshes in the floodplain of the Tigris River and has already been suffering from the effects of global warming.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations has also ranked Iraq as one of the world's five countries most impacted by the&nbsp;effects of climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Fish keep dying even now</strong></p>

<p>Amid the deaths, a Maysan province official that oversees its Marshes for the Iraqi environment ministry named Khodr Abbas Salman told AFP that according to the terrain analyses&nbsp;conducted by them, the level of oxygen in the water is zero and is adding to the salinity levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Salman said that he too joined the mission of inspecting the deaths of "tonnes" of fish.</p>

<p>He added that samples from both fish and rivers will be analysed to determine if there is any chemical substance present.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The water can no longer be used for agriculture. It would scourge the land if farmers use it for irrigation."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;A robot fish that collects environmental DNA</strong></p>

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<p>The expert further warned of possible risks of pollution in the water and surrounding lands, which can cause more animals to die.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Any dead animal rots... which raises the level of pollution. The water's toxicity might increase and infiltrate the land too," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A similar phenomenon happened in June 2023 in the US state of Texas,&nbsp;where thousands of dead fish washed ashore on a beach along the Gulf Coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The dead fishes were found at the far end of Bryan Beach, near the Brazos River.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials who published the photos of the dead fishes said that the combination of shallow waters and a lack of sunlight led to depleting oxygen levels on shore, leading to deaths.</p>

<p>Going on, the local media reported that thousands more fish are expected to wash ashore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Thousands of small dead fish washed ashore on the banks of the Amshan River in Majar-al Kabir in Maysan province in southeast Iraq amid blistering weather conditions.

Thousands of small dead fish washed ashore on the banks of the Amshan River in Majar-al Kabir in Maysan province in southeast Iraq amid blistering weather conditions. Linking the wildlife disaster to possible drought conditions in the area, officials on Monday announced that they'd be investigating the matter of the river, which is home to almost nine aquatic species. Iraq's agricultural ministry said that it is forming a committee to look into the cause of deaths, AFP reported, citing news agency INA. Also read | World hits record land, sea temperatures as climate change fuels 2023 extremes The Maysan region is home to fabled marshes in the floodplain of the Tigris River and has already been suffering from the effects of global warming. The United Nations has also ranked Iraq as one of the world's five countries most impacted by the effects of climate change. Fish keep dying even now Amid the deaths, a Maysan province official that oversees its Marshes for the Iraqi environment ministry named Khodr Abbas Salman told AFP that according to the terrain analyses conducted by them, the level of oxygen in the water is zero and is adding to the salinity levels. Salman said that he too joined the mission of inspecting the deaths of "tonnes" of fish. He added that samples from both fish and rivers will be analysed to determine if there is any chemical substance present. "The water can no longer be used for agriculture. It would scourge the land if farmers use it for irrigation." Watch | A robot fish that collects environmental DNA The expert further warned of possible risks of pollution in the water and surrounding lands, which can cause more animals to die. "Any dead animal rots... which raises the level of pollution. The water's toxicity might increase and infiltrate the land too," he said. A similar phenomenon happened in June 2023 in the US state of Texas, where thousands of dead fish washed ashore on a beach along the Gulf Coast. The dead fishes were found at the far end of Bryan Beach, near the Brazos River. The officials who published the photos of the dead fishes said that the combination of shallow waters and a lack of sunlight led to depleting oxygen levels on shore, leading to deaths. Going on, the local media reported that thousands more fish are expected to wash ashore. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thousands of dead fish wash ashore in drought-hit Iraq, probe on

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