Birds are a key indicator of the health of the planet, as they are responsive to environmental change and have important ecological functions.

However, it seems that some bird species are nearing extinction, a new report has claimed. And it has blamed&nbsp;human actions for such ecological destruction.

A report titled ‘State of the World’s Birds’, which is published every four years by BirdLife International, has said that 49 per cent of the bird species are on the decline, while one in eight are threatened with extinction and at least 187 species are confirmed or suspected to have gone extinct since 1500.

"One in eight bird species is threatened with extinction, and the status of the world's birds continues to deteriorate: species are moving ever faster towards extinction," said the report released this week.

The report bases its findings on the data of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

In North America, the losses are profound. BirdLife International report&nbsp;states that there are now 2.9 billion fewer individual birds in the region than there were in 1970, an estimated drop of 29 per cent.

While European Union has seen a net loss of around 600 million birds, roughly 18 per cent since 1980.

The ecologists say that expansion and intensification of agriculture are putting pressure on 73 per cent of species, while logging, invasive species, exploitation of natural resources and climate breakdown are the other main threats.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-glaciers-melt-at-record-rate-lose-over-6-volume-in-2022-520537" hreflang="en">Swiss glaciers' melting rate peaks to worst in century, lose over 6% volume</a>

&nbsp;“We have to stop these declines and start getting on track for recovery. Our future, as well as the world’s birds, depends on it. If we continue to unravel the fabric of life, we’re going to continue to place our own future at threat,” Dr Stuart Butchart, chief scientist at BirdLife International, said, according to the Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-big-central-banks-financing-deforestation-of-brazils-amazon-forest-report-520610" hreflang="en">Three big central banks financing deforestation of Brazil’s Amazon forest</a>

In the 2018 report, BirdLife International found 40 per cent of bird species worldwide in decline.

“Birds are useful for telling us about the state of the planet. What they say is that nature is in poor condition, lots of species are in decline,” Butchart said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Birds are a key indicator of the health of the planet, as they are responsive to environmental change and have important ecological functions. However, it seems that some bird species are nearing extinction, a new report has claimed.

Birds are a key indicator of the health of the planet, as they are responsive to environmental change and have important ecological functions. However, it seems that some bird species are nearing extinction, a new report has claimed. And it has blamed human actions for such ecological destruction. A report titled ‘State of the World’s Birds’, which is published every four years by BirdLife International, has said that 49 per cent of the bird species are on the decline, while one in eight are threatened with extinction and at least 187 species are confirmed or suspected to have gone extinct since 1500. "One in eight bird species is threatened with extinction, and the status of the world's birds continues to deteriorate: species are moving ever faster towards extinction," said the report released this week. The report bases its findings on the data of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In North America, the losses are profound. BirdLife International report states that there are now 2.9 billion fewer individual birds in the region than there were in 1970, an estimated drop of 29 per cent. While European Union has seen a net loss of around 600 million birds, roughly 18 per cent since 1980. The ecologists say that expansion and intensification of agriculture are putting pressure on 73 per cent of species, while logging, invasive species, exploitation of natural resources and climate breakdown are the other main threats. Also read | Swiss glaciers' melting rate peaks to worst in century, lose over 6% volume “We have to stop these declines and start getting on track for recovery. Our future, as well as the world’s birds, depends on it. If we continue to unravel the fabric of life, we’re going to continue to place our own future at threat,” Dr Stuart Butchart, chief scientist at BirdLife International, said, according to the Guardian. Also read | Three big central banks financing deforestation of Brazil’s Amazon forest In the 2018 report, BirdLife International found 40 per cent of bird species worldwide in decline. “Birds are useful for telling us about the state of the planet. What they say is that nature is in poor condition, lots of species are in decline,” Butchart said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nearly half of bird species in decline, moving faster to extinction: Report

After days of speculations and media theories of a coup, Chinese President Xi Jinping finally stepped out in public. This was his first outing since the SCO summit in Uzbekistan. In other news,&nbsp;European leaders have launched an investigation into the explosions near the Nord Stream pipelines which resulted in major leaks into the Baltic Sea yesterday.

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-appears-in-public-for-first-time-since-sco-summit-amid-rumours-520401">Xi Jinping appears in public for first time since SCO Summit amid rumours</a>

Chinese President Xi Jinping made his first public appearance since returning from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Samarkand when he visited an exhibition of the Communist Party on Tuesday. Xi’s absence sparked a number of rumours in the past few days with few media reports suggesting that he was removed as the&nbsp;chief of China’s People’s Liberation Army.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/28/299435-00032jh4jg.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-leaks-european-leaders-launch-investigation-into-sabotage-520391">Nord Stream leaks: European leaders launch investigation into 'sabotage'</a>

European leaders have launched an investigation into the explosions near the Nord Stream pipelines which resulted in major leaks into the Baltic Sea. They believed that sabotage was the reason behind the leaks as the major pipelines transporting natural gas from Russia to Europe were majorly impacted.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/28/299428-00032k88au.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-announces-huge-majorities-have-voted-in-favour-of-joining-russia-520387">Kremlin announces huge majorities have voted in favour of joining Russia</a>

Russian-installed officials in occupied regions of Ukraine claimed that residents of a large swath overwhelmingly voted in favour of joining Russia in the so-called referendums that Kyiv and the West denounced as a sham.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/28/299423-2022-09-28t014426z2lynxmpei8q0uortroptp4ukraine-crisis-referendums-crimea.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/liz-truss-and-kwasi-kwarteng-argue-over-response-on-uk-economic-crisis-report-520396">Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng argue over response to UK economic crisis: Report</a>

It has been a tough week for newly elected British Prime Minister Liz Truss as her economic policies have come under severe criticism. Following up on campaign promises, finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng announced massive tax cuts in the mini-budget earlier this week but that was followed by the pound reaching an all-time low against the US dollar and the country facing a more acute economic crisis.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/09/28/299432-00032jy7pn.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jaishankar-blinken-meet-us-state-secy-blinken-praises-indian-pm-modis-stance-on-ukraine-war-520347">WATCH |&nbsp;Jaishankar-Blinken meet: US State Secy Blinken praises Indian PM Modi's stance on Ukraine war</a>

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a joint press conference with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar in Washington praised PM Narendra Modi’s remark on the Ukraine war during the recent SCO summit.

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After days of speculations and media theories of a coup, Chinese President Xi Jinping finally stepped out in public. This was his first outing since the SCO summit in Uzbekistan.

After days of speculations and media theories of a coup, Chinese President Xi Jinping finally stepped out in public. This was his first outing since the SCO summit in Uzbekistan. In other news, European leaders have launched an investigation into the explosions near the Nord Stream pipelines which resulted in major leaks into the Baltic Sea yesterday. Click on headlines to read more: Xi Jinping appears in public for first time since SCO Summit amid rumours Chinese President Xi Jinping made his first public appearance since returning from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Samarkand when he visited an exhibition of the Communist Party on Tuesday. Xi’s absence sparked a number of rumours in the past few days with few media reports suggesting that he was removed as the chief of China’s People’s Liberation Army. Nord Stream leaks: European leaders launch investigation into 'sabotage' European leaders have launched an investigation into the explosions near the Nord Stream pipelines which resulted in major leaks into the Baltic Sea. They believed that sabotage was the reason behind the leaks as the major pipelines transporting natural gas from Russia to Europe were majorly impacted. Kremlin announces huge majorities have voted in favour of joining Russia Russian-installed officials in occupied regions of Ukraine claimed that residents of a large swath overwhelmingly voted in favour of joining Russia in the so-called referendums that Kyiv and the West denounced as a sham. Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng argue over response to UK economic crisis: Report It has been a tough week for newly elected British Prime Minister Liz Truss as her economic policies have come under severe criticism. Following up on campaign promises, finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng announced massive tax cuts in the mini-budget earlier this week but that was followed by the pound reaching an all-time low against the US dollar and the country facing a more acute economic crisis. WATCH | Jaishankar-Blinken meet: US State Secy Blinken praises Indian PM Modi's stance on Ukraine war US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a joint press conference with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar in Washington praised PM Narendra Modi’s remark on the Ukraine war during the recent SCO summit. ×

Morning news brief: Xi returns to public light, Europe launches Nord Stream 1 investigation & more

The European Union has claimed that gas leaks on the Nord Stream pipes to Europe were a "deliberate act," while the Kremlin called this claim "stupid and absurd."&nbsp;

After Ukraine claimed that the leaks&nbsp;were a "terrorist attack" by Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that it was both predictable and irresponsible to give life to these kinds of scenarios.&nbsp;

The leaks, according to Peskov, are "quite problematic" for Moscow.&nbsp;

"Both branches were filled with gas, ready for pumping, and this gas is very expensive. Now, this gas is disappearing into the air," Peskov said.

In addition, he urged everyone to wait for the results of the probe before making any statements.&nbsp;

"This is a situation that requires dialogue, prompt interaction on the part of all sides to find what happened. So far we see an absolute lack of such dialogue," Peskov said.

On Monday, the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines in the Baltic Sea had three unexplained gas leaks that were preceded by two explosions.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-russian-call-for-mobilisation-sparks-mass-exodus-520181">In pics: Russian call for mobilisation sparks mass exodus</a>

In recent months, the pipelines have been at the centre of geopolitical unrest as a result of Russia's suspected retaliation against Western sanctions following its military intervention in Ukraine. Russia curtailed gas shipments to Europe.

Nord Stream 2 was designed to run parallel to Nord Stream 1 and increase Germany's ability to import Russian gas.&nbsp;

However, Berlin halted the recently finished Nord Stream 2 just before Moscow pushed soldiers into Ukraine.

(with inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

The European Union has claimed that gas leaks on the Nord Stream pipes to Europe were a "deliberate act," while the Kremlin called this claim "stupid and absurd.

The European Union has claimed that gas leaks on the Nord Stream pipes to Europe were a "deliberate act," while the Kremlin called this claim "stupid and absurd." After Ukraine claimed that the leaks were a "terrorist attack" by Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that it was both predictable and irresponsible to give life to these kinds of scenarios. The leaks, according to Peskov, are "quite problematic" for Moscow. "Both branches were filled with gas, ready for pumping, and this gas is very expensive. Now, this gas is disappearing into the air," Peskov said. In addition, he urged everyone to wait for the results of the probe before making any statements. "This is a situation that requires dialogue, prompt interaction on the part of all sides to find what happened. So far we see an absolute lack of such dialogue," Peskov said. On Monday, the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines in the Baltic Sea had three unexplained gas leaks that were preceded by two explosions. Also Read: In pics: Russian call for mobilisation sparks mass exodus In recent months, the pipelines have been at the centre of geopolitical unrest as a result of Russia's suspected retaliation against Western sanctions following its military intervention in Ukraine. Russia curtailed gas shipments to Europe. Nord Stream 2 was designed to run parallel to Nord Stream 1 and increase Germany's ability to import Russian gas. However, Berlin halted the recently finished Nord Stream 2 just before Moscow pushed soldiers into Ukraine. (with inputs from agencies)

'Stupid and absurd' to accuse Russia of Nord Stream leaks: Kremlin

Swedish seismologists have detected underwater explosions near the Nord Stream pipelines. This comes after European leaders claimed the leaks on the pipelines may have been caused by sabotage. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Did explosions damage gas pipelines to Europe?

The world seems to be inching back towards nuclear sabre-rattling years after gingerly stepped back from the edge of a global disaster after the cold war, foes are the same Russia and the West. Moscow has once again warned that the use of nuclear weapons has not been ruled out.

Europe is probing cause of leaks in Nord Stream pipeline

As Europe heads into winter in the throes of an energy crisis, offices are getting chillier. Statues and historic buildings are going dark. Bakers who can’t afford to heat their ovens are talking about giving up.

Lights out, ovens off: Europe braces for winter energy crisis

Unexplained gas leaks detected in the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines from Russia to Germany have prompted investigations by European countries into the cause amid fear of possible sabotage.

Europe investigates unexplained leaks in Nord stream pipelines

Europe is turning off lights and reducing heating levels. As the cost of gas surges, Europe prepares for a bleak winter.

WION Fineprint | Europe stares at a cold and dark winter ahead due to the energy crisis

Across northern and western Europe, vegetable producers are halting their activities and this is due to the financial hit that they have taken from Europe's energy crisis which is further threatening food supplies.

Europe: Vegetable farmers halt production in Northern and Western parts

Energy crisis is driving up the cost of power across Europe and people are looking at ways now to curb their energy consumption. Apple farmers in Northern Italy are using refrigerated caves to save their power costs.

WION Climate Tracker | 34 caves in North Italy being used to store apple harvest

According to Iran, it sees no point in reviving the nuclear pact without guarantees from the United States that it will now withdraw again. As per, the United States official Iran stance on this matter is unreasonable.

Iranian President Raisi blames Europe & US for failing to revive nuclear dea

A significant business lobby said on Wednesday that China's "inflexible" and "inconsistent" zero-Covid policy is harming European companies' operations in the nation and that their presence "can no longer be taken for granted".&nbsp;

The report from the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China is the most recent indication from the international business community that Beijing's strict anti-virus restrictions are hurting the second-largest economy in the world and isolating it on the global scene.

China is the last significant economy committed to a strategy of stopping virus outbreaks as they start, using a combination of immediate lockdowns, extensive testing, and brief quarantines.&nbsp;

President Xi Jinping has deemed the strategy China's most "economic and effective" path forward, despite causing business closures and upsetting global supply lines. Officials have not yet suggested when the limits will be relaxed.&nbsp;

In a position paper, the European Chamber, a collection of more than 1,800 European businesses operating in China, said that zero-Covid and its "massive uncertainty" had a "negative&nbsp;impact" on 75 per cent&nbsp;of the operations of its members.

The organisation warned that ideology appeared to be "trumping the economy" and described Xi's hallmark programme as "inflexible and inconsistently implemented." It said that China's economic environment would remain unpredictable as long as the possibility of lockdowns persisted.&nbsp;

The circumstance, it was claimed, had led to the biggest proportion of businesses in the past 10 years thinking about moving current or planned investments out of China.

Despite China's substantial development potential, the research stated that "the extent of European firms' engagement can no longer be taken for granted." China shortened the statutory quarantine period for foreign visitors in June from 21 to 10 days, but there are still many obstacles to travel, including a dearth of planes and exorbitant ticket rates.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-new-island-formed-in-pacific-ocean-as-home-reef-erupts-eight-times-in-48-hours-518359">Watch: New island formed in Pacific ocean as Home reef erupts eight times in 48 hours</a>

According to the paper, the nearly complete closure of the nation's borders since 2020 has sped up an "exodus" of European citizens and made those who remain more alone than before. "The business environment will continue to become more challenging," it added if Beijing sticks with the approach.

The report's prologue was written by Joerg Wuttke, the president of the European Chamber of Commerce, who stated that "the rest of the world has largely resumed pre-pandemic levels of "normality," but China remains reluctant&nbsp;to open its doors." European companies "need China to fulfil its huge economic potential", he added.&nbsp;

Only 0.4% of China's GDP grew in the second quarter as supply chains were disrupted and businesses shut down due to viral restrictions in large portions of the country. According to analysts, the nation is likely to fall far short of its 5.5 per cent annual growth goal.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A significant business lobby said on Wednesday that China's "inflexible" and "inconsistent" zero-Covid policy is harming European companies' operations in the nation and that their presence "can no longer be taken for granted".

A significant business lobby said on Wednesday that China's "inflexible" and "inconsistent" zero-Covid policy is harming European companies' operations in the nation and that their presence "can no longer be taken for granted". The report from the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China is the most recent indication from the international business community that Beijing's strict anti-virus restrictions are hurting the second-largest economy in the world and isolating it on the global scene. China is the last significant economy committed to a strategy of stopping virus outbreaks as they start, using a combination of immediate lockdowns, extensive testing, and brief quarantines. President Xi Jinping has deemed the strategy China's most "economic and effective" path forward, despite causing business closures and upsetting global supply lines. Officials have not yet suggested when the limits will be relaxed. In a position paper, the European Chamber, a collection of more than 1,800 European businesses operating in China, said that zero-Covid and its "massive uncertainty" had a "negative impact" on 75 per cent of the operations of its members. The organisation warned that ideology appeared to be "trumping the economy" and described Xi's hallmark programme as "inflexible and inconsistently implemented." It said that China's economic environment would remain unpredictable as long as the possibility of lockdowns persisted. The circumstance, it was claimed, had led to the biggest proportion of businesses in the past 10 years thinking about moving current or planned investments out of China. Despite China's substantial development potential, the research stated that "the extent of European firms' engagement can no longer be taken for granted." China shortened the statutory quarantine period for foreign visitors in June from 21 to 10 days, but there are still many obstacles to travel, including a dearth of planes and exorbitant ticket rates. Also Read: Watch: New island formed in Pacific ocean as Home reef erupts eight times in 48 hours According to the paper, the nearly complete closure of the nation's borders since 2020 has sped up an "exodus" of European citizens and made those who remain more alone than before. "The business environment will continue to become more challenging," it added if Beijing sticks with the approach. The report's prologue was written by Joerg Wuttke, the president of the European Chamber of Commerce, who stated that "the rest of the world has largely resumed pre-pandemic levels of "normality," but China remains reluctant to open its doors." European companies "need China to fulfil its huge economic potential", he added. Only 0.4% of China's GDP grew in the second quarter as supply chains were disrupted and businesses shut down due to viral restrictions in large portions of the country. According to analysts, the nation is likely to fall far short of its 5.5 per cent annual growth goal. (with inputs from agencies)

China's 'Zero-Covid' policy crippling European businesses in the country: Report

European governments outlined new measures on Monday to cope with potential energy shortages this winter and raced to improve energy networks to share power.

Europe races to prepare for energy crunch this winter

Scorching heat waves, record-breaking temperatures and a persistent lack of rainfall; scientists said that warmer and dry seasons are likely to become the norm. Dry conditions in Africa have put millions at risk of starvation.

WION Climate Tracker: Europe to witness more hot temperatures | China's biggest river dries up

European governments are moving quickly to ensure energy security as winter approaches and Russia continues to squeeze supply of natural gas to the continent. Germany on Monday (September 19) was pressing to secure LNG (liquefied natural gas) contracts with producers in Gulf. Other European countries meanwhile are outlining measures to conserve energy.&nbsp;

Russia has used its position as major provider of gas to exert political pressure on Europe to gain an upper hand in situation in the wake of Ukraine war. Russia faces allegations that it is using gas as weapon but denies it saying that Western sanctions have led to this situation. Europe depends on Russia for 40 per cent of its gas needs. Russia has shut Nord Stream 1, a vital gas pipeline.

Germany said that it is aiming to sign LNG contracts in the UAE. France, Spain and others are making contingency plans to avoid power cuts.

"If everything goes well, savings in Germany are high and we have a bit of luck with the weather, we ... have a chance at getting through the winter comfortably," Economy Minister Robert Habeck said after a tour of a future LNG terminal in northern Germany. He was quote by Reuters.

Germany's RWE said it was "in good and constructive talks" with Qatar about LNG deliveries, before a planned visit by Chancellor Olaf Scholz to the Gulf. Ailing importer Uniper said it had not reached a deal yet.

Germany will also be able to count on gas flowing from France from around Oct. 10, the head of France's CRE energy regulator said, following an announcement by President Emmanuel Macron that the two would help each other with energy supplies.

In France, CRE chief Emmanuelle Wargon said that if energy group EDF's race to repair corrosion-hit nuclear reactors suffers delays, "exceptional" measures this winter could include localised electricity cuts.

"But there will be no gas cuts for households. Never," she told franceinfo broadcaster.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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European governments are moving quickly to ensure energy security as winter approaches and Russia continues to squeeze supply of natural gas to the continent. Germany on Monday (September 19) was pressing to secure LNG (liquefied natural gas) contracts with producers in Gulf.

European governments are moving quickly to ensure energy security as winter approaches and Russia continues to squeeze supply of natural gas to the continent. Germany on Monday (September 19) was pressing to secure LNG (liquefied natural gas) contracts with producers in Gulf. Other European countries meanwhile are outlining measures to conserve energy. Russia has used its position as major provider of gas to exert political pressure on Europe to gain an upper hand in situation in the wake of Ukraine war. Russia faces allegations that it is using gas as weapon but denies it saying that Western sanctions have led to this situation. Europe depends on Russia for 40 per cent of its gas needs. Russia has shut Nord Stream 1, a vital gas pipeline. Germany said that it is aiming to sign LNG contracts in the UAE. France, Spain and others are making contingency plans to avoid power cuts. "If everything goes well, savings in Germany are high and we have a bit of luck with the weather, we ... have a chance at getting through the winter comfortably," Economy Minister Robert Habeck said after a tour of a future LNG terminal in northern Germany. He was quote by Reuters. Germany's RWE said it was "in good and constructive talks" with Qatar about LNG deliveries, before a planned visit by Chancellor Olaf Scholz to the Gulf. Ailing importer Uniper said it had not reached a deal yet. Germany will also be able to count on gas flowing from France from around Oct. 10, the head of France's CRE energy regulator said, following an announcement by President Emmanuel Macron that the two would help each other with energy supplies. In France, CRE chief Emmanuelle Wargon said that if energy group EDF's race to repair corrosion-hit nuclear reactors suffers delays, "exceptional" measures this winter could include localised electricity cuts. "But there will be no gas cuts for households. Never," she told franceinfo broadcaster. (With inputs from agencies) 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 ×

Europe scrambles to secure energy supply as winter approaches

Europe struggles to cope with Russia gas shutoffs

Clashes broke out between the police and right wing protesters during an LGBTQ+ march organised to mark the end of the Euro pride week. Tensions soared in the Serbian capital of Belgrade as ultra-nationalist and anti-gay groups hurled stun grenades and stones at the police.

10 police officers injured in clashes during gay pride parade in Serbia

The cost of living crisis has overshadowed all other concerns in Italy. There is a general realization among the people and leaders of Italy that the cost of living crisis stems from Russia's chokehold on gas supplies. However few people believe Italians are paying too high a price in the Ukraine war due to Western sanctions.

Gas lights up Italian election; Italy's right wing coalition divided over sanctions on Russia

President Vladimir Putin denied Russia had anything to do with Europe's energy crisis, saying that if the European Union wanted more gas it should lift sanctions preventing the opening of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.

Putin to Europe: If you want gas then open Nord Stream 2

The European Union's executive has outlined plans to raise more than $140 billion from energy firms to help shield households and businesses from soaring prices that threaten economic downturn and insolvencies.

World Business Watch: EU seeks $140 billion from energy companies

According to a recent study funded by the World Health Organization, 17 million people in Europe are estimated to have dealt with long COVID symptoms.

What is long COVID that WHO says 17 million people in Europe have suffered

Learning the lesson of being overtly dependent on a single country for its needs in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Germany is looking to make amends. The European country is now mulling plans to reduce its dependence on Chinese raw materials by chalking up a new trade deal.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Economy Minister Robert Habeck stated that Germany couldn't be allowed to be blackmailed by other countries.&nbsp;

"We cannot allow ourselves to be blackmailed. If [the Chinese market] were to close, which is not likely at the moment...we would have extreme sales problems," said Habeck.

The minister also noted that 'there is no more naivety' regarding the country's policy while dealing with trade partners. Habeck added that he was against&nbsp;China’s Cosco buying a stake in a container operator at Germany’s Hafen Hamburg port.

“I’m leaning towards the fact that we don’t allow that." said&nbsp;Habeck.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/german-envoy-ackermann-calls-chinas-claims-on-arunachal-pradesh-outrageous-511580">:&nbsp;German envoy Ackermann calls China's claims on Arunachal Pradesh 'outrageous'</a>

It is pertinent to note that China is Germany's biggest trade partner for the last six years. The volume of trade between the two nations reached $246 billion in 2021. However, the trade is imbalanced as Germany is much more dependent on China.&nbsp;

According to a Reuters report, Berlin's trade deficit with Beijing has increased to almost $41 billion as of mid-2022. While German imports to China have only increased by 12.4 per cent in the first half of 2022 compared to 3.4 per cent in 2000, the German imports of Chinese goods have leapt an astronomical 45.7 per cent on a year-on-year basis.

As reported extensively by WION, ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, Germany has been one of the biggest economies in Europe to face the financial brunt of it. Russia has stopped gas supply through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline which was Germany's lifeline.

Consequently, Berlin has been trying to hurriedly fill its reserves ahead of the winter season. Years after Donald Trump advised Germany to reduce its dependence on Russian gas, the country is finally waking up to reality and smelling the coffee.&nbsp;

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-host-g20-summit-on-september-9-and-10-in-2023-515726">&nbsp;India to host G20 summit on September 9 and 10 in 2023</a>

China has been known to use its advantageous position in trade imbalances to coerce sovereign governments by bending them to its will. Berlin understands the problem at hand but letting go of Chinese products without a proper supply chain at home will not be a small challenge.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Learning the lesson of being overtly dependent on a single country for its needs in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Germany is looking to make amends.

Learning the lesson of being overtly dependent on a single country for its needs in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Germany is looking to make amends. The European country is now mulling plans to reduce its dependence on Chinese raw materials by chalking up a new trade deal. Reportedly, Economy Minister Robert Habeck stated that Germany couldn't be allowed to be blackmailed by other countries. "We cannot allow ourselves to be blackmailed. If [the Chinese market] were to close, which is not likely at the moment...we would have extreme sales problems," said Habeck. The minister also noted that 'there is no more naivety' regarding the country's policy while dealing with trade partners. Habeck added that he was against China’s Cosco buying a stake in a container operator at Germany’s Hafen Hamburg port. “I’m leaning towards the fact that we don’t allow that." said Habeck. Read more: German envoy Ackermann calls China's claims on Arunachal Pradesh 'outrageous' It is pertinent to note that China is Germany's biggest trade partner for the last six years. The volume of trade between the two nations reached $246 billion in 2021. However, the trade is imbalanced as Germany is much more dependent on China. According to a Reuters report, Berlin's trade deficit with Beijing has increased to almost $41 billion as of mid-2022. While German imports to China have only increased by 12.4 per cent in the first half of 2022 compared to 3.4 per cent in 2000, the German imports of Chinese goods have leapt an astronomical 45.7 per cent on a year-on-year basis. As reported extensively by WION, ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, Germany has been one of the biggest economies in Europe to face the financial brunt of it. Russia has stopped gas supply through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline which was Germany's lifeline. Consequently, Berlin has been trying to hurriedly fill its reserves ahead of the winter season. Years after Donald Trump advised Germany to reduce its dependence on Russian gas, the country is finally waking up to reality and smelling the coffee. Read more: India to host G20 summit on September 9 and 10 in 2023 China has been known to use its advantageous position in trade imbalances to coerce sovereign governments by bending them to its will. Berlin understands the problem at hand but letting go of Chinese products without a proper supply chain at home will not be a small challenge. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Once bitten, twice shy: After Russia lesson, Germany to reconsider trade deal with China

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China is selling its excess Russian gas to Europe amid a power crunch triggered by Russia's shutdown of Nord stream 1 pipeline. How is China laundering Russian gas? Why isn't the world calling out Europe's hypocrisy? Molly Gambhir tells you.

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A series of satellite images have revealed how Europe dried up over the months of July and August as "the worst drought in 500 years" hit the continent.

In a video posted on Twitter by the Copernicus Program of the European Union, which runs the constellation of Earth-observing Sentinel satellites, large areas of Europe can be seen changing from a lush green to a dry brown between July 1 and August 31.

"In 2022, #drought has affected the whole of Europe" tweeted Copernicus, adding "Observe how our continent has changed with this mosaic of images."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In 2022, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/drought?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#drought</a> has affected the whole of Europe 
 
Observe how our continent has changed with this mosaic of images acquired by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Copernicus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Copernicus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sentinel2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sentinel2</a> 🇪🇺🛰️ between 1 July and 31 August 
 
🟢2021🌻 
🟤2022🥀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Drought2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Drought2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/lXITzYwDFt">pic.twitter.com/lXITzYwDFt</a>
— Copernicus EU (@CopernicusEU) <a href="https://twitter.com/CopernicusEU/status/1566704558608351235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, the 2022 drought is the greatest to affect Europe in 500 years. While the abnormally hot and dry weather has substantially raised the risk of forest fires, water levels in rivers like the Rhine, Danube, and Po plunged to such low levels that the waterways had to be closed to traffic.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Europe faces worst drought in 500 years

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This year's summer in Europe is regarded as the driest since a severe drought struck the region in 1540.

Images available on the Copernicus website show the extent to which the drought is impacting the continent.

<img alt="Noordoostpolder " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aec75301-4ef8-41fe-8315-30229a09290d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2817%29_0.png" />

(Image&nbsp;Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2&nbsp;imagery)

This image shows the acute drought as it impacts the Noordoostpolder in the Netherlands.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-you-see-me-weep-europes-historic-drought-uncovers-centuries-old-macabre-warnings-507591">'If you see me, weep': Europe's histsoric drought uncovers centuries-old macabre warnings</a>

The majority of the land in Noordoostpolder is used for agriculture. The lack of flora has caused the region to turn brown, something that can be seen throughout the Netherlands. As per Copernicus, the region is having problems producing animal feed and has a shortage of water resources that are required by the local wildlife because of the drought and crop failures.

<img alt="Extremadura" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f783ab14-30cf-4f8a-8b6d-97c421e0e47f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/20220829_DroughtExtremaduraSpain.jpg" />

(Image&nbsp;Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2&nbsp;imagery)

Another image shows Spain, which "is one of the EU Member States that is most severely affected by the consequences of the historic drought in Europe."

In Spain's Extremadura, 15 reservoirs are in an emergency situation&nbsp;and several water rationing restrictions have been put in place.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A series of satellite images have revealed how Europe dried up over the months of July and August as "the worst drought in 500 years" hit the continent. In a video posted on Twitter by the Copernicus Program of the European Union, which runs the constellation of Earth-observing Sentinel satellites, large areas of Europe can be seen changing from a lush green to a dry brown between July 1 and August 31.

A series of satellite images have revealed how Europe dried up over the months of July and August as "the worst drought in 500 years" hit the continent. In a video posted on Twitter by the Copernicus Program of the European Union, which runs the constellation of Earth-observing Sentinel satellites, large areas of Europe can be seen changing from a lush green to a dry brown between July 1 and August 31. "In 2022, #drought has affected the whole of Europe" tweeted Copernicus, adding "Observe how our continent has changed with this mosaic of images." In 2022, #drought has affected the whole of Europe Observe how our continent has changed with this mosaic of images acquired by #Copernicus #Sentinel2 🇪🇺🛰️ between 1 July and 31 August 🟢2021🌻 🟤2022🥀#Drought2022 pic.twitter.com/lXITzYwDFt — Copernicus EU (@CopernicusEU) September 5, 2022 × According to reports, the 2022 drought is the greatest to affect Europe in 500 years. While the abnormally hot and dry weather has substantially raised the risk of forest fires, water levels in rivers like the Rhine, Danube, and Po plunged to such low levels that the waterways had to be closed to traffic. Watch | Gravitas: Europe faces worst drought in 500 years This year's summer in Europe is regarded as the driest since a severe drought struck the region in 1540. Images available on the Copernicus website show the extent to which the drought is impacting the continent. (Image Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery) This image shows the acute drought as it impacts the Noordoostpolder in the Netherlands. Also read | 'If you see me, weep': Europe's histsoric drought uncovers centuries-old macabre warnings The majority of the land in Noordoostpolder is used for agriculture. The lack of flora has caused the region to turn brown, something that can be seen throughout the Netherlands. As per Copernicus, the region is having problems producing animal feed and has a shortage of water resources that are required by the local wildlife because of the drought and crop failures. (Image Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery) Another image shows Spain, which "is one of the EU Member States that is most severely affected by the consequences of the historic drought in Europe." In Spain's Extremadura, 15 reservoirs are in an emergency situation and several water rationing restrictions have been put in place. (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.

Watch | Satellite images show how the historic drought turned lush Europe brown

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