An ecological catastrophe is unfolding in Mauritius and at the centre of it is a Japanese bulk carrier which has spilt more than a 1,000 tonnes of oil into the waters of the&nbsp;island nation.

Mauritius is home to world-renowned coral reefs. Now, thousands of species run the risk of drowning in a sea of pollution.

The pristine&nbsp;turquoise waters of Mauritius have turned murky brown. Thousands of endangered species and spectacular corals are at risk.&nbsp;A Japanese ship owned by the Nagashiki shipping company has been oozing fuel into the island nation's seawater.&nbsp;

The MV Wakashio&nbsp;believed to have been carrying 4,000 tonnes of fuel oil&nbsp;ran aground on a coral reef on July 25 and now&nbsp;a massive round-the-clock clean-up drive is underway.

Mauritians have made floating booms of human hair and leaves&nbsp;to mop up the oil from leaking further.

Some hair salons are even offering discounts to those donating hair.&nbsp; A&nbsp;state of emergency has been declared in Mauritius as fishermen try and salvage their precious waters. For now, close to 500 tonnes of oil has been safely pumped out of the water.

What is of grave concern is that large cracks have appeared in the hull of the cargo ship which has prompted the prime minister to warn that it may break in two.

Mauritius is home to some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world. It's rich flora and fauna attract tourists from across the globe.

Tourism is a major contributor to this island economy and added around $1.6 billion to its coffers last year. Authorities are worried that the oil spill near the blue bay marine park may endanger the corals, fish and other marine life and locals worry that this catastrophe could hamper their livelihood.

A spokesperson for the Mitsui Osk Lines, the operator of the ship, has profusely apologised for the spill.&nbsp;

An aerial view of the Mauritius coastline serves as a reminder of the havoc wreaked by mankind upon nature. For now, the entire country's ecosystem hangs in the balance.

An ecological catastrophe is unfolding in Mauritius and at the centre of it is a Japanese bulk carrier which has spilt more than a 1,000 tonnes of oil into the waters of the island nation.

An ecological catastrophe is unfolding in Mauritius and at the centre of it is a Japanese bulk carrier which has spilt more than a 1,000 tonnes of oil into the waters of the island nation. Mauritius is home to world-renowned coral reefs. Now, thousands of species run the risk of drowning in a sea of pollution. The pristine turquoise waters of Mauritius have turned murky brown. Thousands of endangered species and spectacular corals are at risk. A Japanese ship owned by the Nagashiki shipping company has been oozing fuel into the island nation's seawater. The MV Wakashio believed to have been carrying 4,000 tonnes of fuel oil ran aground on a coral reef on July 25 and now a massive round-the-clock clean-up drive is underway. Mauritians have made floating booms of human hair and leaves to mop up the oil from leaking further. Some hair salons are even offering discounts to those donating hair. A state of emergency has been declared in Mauritius as fishermen try and salvage their precious waters. For now, close to 500 tonnes of oil has been safely pumped out of the water. What is of grave concern is that large cracks have appeared in the hull of the cargo ship which has prompted the prime minister to warn that it may break in two. Mauritius is home to some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world. It's rich flora and fauna attract tourists from across the globe. Tourism is a major contributor to this island economy and added around $1.6 billion to its coffers last year. Authorities are worried that the oil spill near the blue bay marine park may endanger the corals, fish and other marine life and locals worry that this catastrophe could hamper their livelihood. A spokesperson for the Mitsui Osk Lines, the operator of the ship, has profusely apologised for the spill. An aerial view of the Mauritius coastline serves as a reminder of the havoc wreaked by mankind upon nature. For now, the entire country's ecosystem hangs in the balance.

Mauritius struggles to preserve ecosystem amid catastrophic oil spill

Can't embrace friends and family these days? Hug a tree instead. That's the message Israel's Nature and Parks Authority is spreading on social media to try to help people overcome the sense of detachment that coronavirus social distancing rules can bring.

Hugging a tree in Israel to beat coronavirus blues

A shallow 4.6-magnitude earthquake rocked Kabul on Monday, the US Geological Survey said, sending crowds into the streets of the Afghan capital.

There were no immediate reports of any casualties after the quake shook Kabul at 8:36 pm (1606 GMT) with such violence that some residents at first thought it was a new explosion in the war-torn city.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-forces-kill-taliban-terrorists-after-clash-at-military-checkpoints-310891" hreflang="en">Afghan forces kill Taliban terrorists after clash at military checkpoints</a>

The USGS assessed the quake's depth at 7.5 kilometres, making it a shallow temblor, and put its epicentre in Paghman district of Kabul province, less than 30 kilometres (18 miles) from the capital.

Afghanistan is frequently hit by earthquakes, especially in the Hindu Kush mountain range which lies near the junction of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-will-cooperate-to-bring-back-peace-in-afghanistan-khalilzad-310750" hreflang="en">Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad</a>

In May 2018, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded in northern Afghanistan and felt as far away as Islamabad and Dushanbe.

In October 2015, a devastating 7.5-magnitude quake killed nearly 400 people in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Aid agencies have regularly stressed the need for greater disaster preparedness in Afghanistan, which remains extremely susceptible to recurring earthquakes, floods and landslides.

A shallow 4.6-magnitude earthquake rocked Kabul on Monday, the US Geological Survey said, sending crowds into the streets of the Afghan capital. There were no immediate reports of any casualties after the quake shook Kabul at 8:36 pm (1606 GMT) with such violence that some residents at first thought it was a new explosion in the war-torn city.

A shallow 4.6-magnitude earthquake rocked Kabul on Monday, the US Geological Survey said, sending crowds into the streets of the Afghan capital. There were no immediate reports of any casualties after the quake shook Kabul at 8:36 pm (1606 GMT) with such violence that some residents at first thought it was a new explosion in the war-torn city. Also read: Afghan forces kill Taliban terrorists after clash at military checkpoints The USGS assessed the quake's depth at 7.5 kilometres, making it a shallow temblor, and put its epicentre in Paghman district of Kabul province, less than 30 kilometres (18 miles) from the capital. Afghanistan is frequently hit by earthquakes, especially in the Hindu Kush mountain range which lies near the junction of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates. Also read: Taliban will cooperate to bring back peace in Afghanistan: Khalilzad In May 2018, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded in northern Afghanistan and felt as far away as Islamabad and Dushanbe. In October 2015, a devastating 7.5-magnitude quake killed nearly 400 people in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Aid agencies have regularly stressed the need for greater disaster preparedness in Afghanistan, which remains extremely susceptible to recurring earthquakes, floods and landslides.

Shallow 4.6-magnitude earthquake strikes Kabul

A boom was heard in the skies of Tokyo on Thursday morning. At the same time, a bright and purple&nbsp;object was seen&nbsp;whirling towards the city.

According to media reports, the object could be seen in the sky for a few seconds at 2.30 AM local time. Described by many as a green and purple hue flying in the sky, the blaze fizzled out after a few seconds.

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A bright meteor crossed the sky last night above Tokyo, with many saying they heard a loud explosion. 
The National Astronomical Observatory said it is rare for people to hear anything from a Meteor sighting. ☄<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/meteor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#meteor</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fireball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fireball</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FridayThoughts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FridayThoughts</a> <a href="https://t.co/rzBs5h2HMb">pic.twitter.com/rzBs5h2HMb</a>
— ~Marietta✌ (@_MariettaDavis) <a href="https://twitter.com/_MariettaDavis/status/1279154689137946624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A local tweeted that he thought the person living on the floor above his had dropped something huge, like a shelf, when he heard the noise.

A sonic boom accompanied the blaze, which lit up the night sky in the city.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fireball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fireball</a> in news, sighted by many living in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo</a>, Japan🇯🇵 1st July 2020 ~ 17:30 GMT, detected acoustically by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IMS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IMS</a> Infrasound stations I45RU &amp; I44RU at distances of approximately 1100km &amp; 2300km, respectively. Latest signal enhancement techniques used by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDC</a> in analysis: <a href="https://t.co/vhqHWhlWWg">pic.twitter.com/vhqHWhlWWg</a>
— Lassina Zerbo (@SinaZerbo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SinaZerbo/status/1279049808033038336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Scientists believe that it may have been a small asteroid which entered our atmosphere briefly. Its footprint was picked up by infrasound monitoring stations around the world, which are overseen by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization.

According to the International Meteor Organization (IMO), the object could be seen in Japan’s Kanto region.

Massive energy

What’s even more alarming is the energy produced by the object. According to IMO’s blog post on the object, it produced energy amounting to over 165 tonnes or 150 metric tonnes of TNT!

"We were able to calculate a source energy of the entering asteroid of about (165 tons or 150 metric tonnes) of TNT," the post said.&nbsp;The follow-up conducted by the IMO claimed that the rock had a diameter of 1.6 metres and a mass of 1.6 metric tonnes.

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Tokyo, JAPAN – July 2, 2020, 2:32 AM local time, U.S. Government sensors detected a large meteor fireball travelling ENE at 14.1 km/s, ending near Tokyo, above the Chiba Prefecture. Total atmospheric impact energy was equivalent to 165 tonnes of TNT! <a href="https://t.co/rGFHml6cml">https://t.co/rGFHml6cml</a> <a href="https://t.co/jbxa90njLB">pic.twitter.com/jbxa90njLB</a>
— Strewnify (@strewnify) <a href="https://twitter.com/strewnify/status/1279780736502059009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Fireballs are a common event in the sky, but this one was different owing to the sonic boom it produced. According to the National Astronomical Observatory, fireballs are observed every month, but the sound is unusual!

A similar event took place in Russia in 2013, which destroyed thousands of windows in the city of Chelyabinsk and was probably 20-30 times bigger than this rock.

A boom was heard in the skies of Tokyo on Thursday morning. At the same time, a bright and purple object was seen whirling towards the city. According to media reports, the object could be seen in the sky for a few seconds at 2.

A boom was heard in the skies of Tokyo on Thursday morning. At the same time, a bright and purple object was seen whirling towards the city. According to media reports, the object could be seen in the sky for a few seconds at 2.30 AM local time. Described by many as a green and purple hue flying in the sky, the blaze fizzled out after a few seconds. A bright meteor crossed the sky last night above Tokyo, with many saying they heard a loud explosion. The National Astronomical Observatory said it is rare for people to hear anything from a Meteor sighting. ☄#meteor#Fireball#Tokyo#FridayThoughts pic.twitter.com/rzBs5h2HMb — ~Marietta✌ (@_MariettaDavis) July 3, 2020 × A local tweeted that he thought the person living on the floor above his had dropped something huge, like a shelf, when he heard the noise. A sonic boom accompanied the blaze, which lit up the night sky in the city. #Fireball in news, sighted by many living in #Tokyo, Japan🇯🇵 1st July 2020 ~ 17:30 GMT, detected acoustically by #IMS Infrasound stations I45RU & I44RU at distances of approximately 1100km & 2300km, respectively. Latest signal enhancement techniques used by #IDC in analysis: pic.twitter.com/vhqHWhlWWg — Lassina Zerbo (@SinaZerbo) July 3, 2020 × Scientists believe that it may have been a small asteroid which entered our atmosphere briefly. Its footprint was picked up by infrasound monitoring stations around the world, which are overseen by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization. According to the International Meteor Organization (IMO), the object could be seen in Japan’s Kanto region. Massive energy What’s even more alarming is the energy produced by the object. According to IMO’s blog post on the object, it produced energy amounting to over 165 tonnes or 150 metric tonnes of TNT! "We were able to calculate a source energy of the entering asteroid of about (165 tons or 150 metric tonnes) of TNT," the post said. The follow-up conducted by the IMO claimed that the rock had a diameter of 1.6 metres and a mass of 1.6 metric tonnes. Tokyo, JAPAN – July 2, 2020, 2:32 AM local time, U.S. Government sensors detected a large meteor fireball travelling ENE at 14.1 km/s, ending near Tokyo, above the Chiba Prefecture. Total atmospheric impact energy was equivalent to 165 tonnes of TNT! https://t.co/rGFHml6cml pic.twitter.com/jbxa90njLB — Strewnify (@strewnify) July 5, 2020 × Fireballs are a common event in the sky, but this one was different owing to the sonic boom it produced. According to the National Astronomical Observatory, fireballs are observed every month, but the sound is unusual! A similar event took place in Russia in 2013, which destroyed thousands of windows in the city of Chelyabinsk and was probably 20-30 times bigger than this rock.

A blazing fireball produced a sonic boom in Tokyo skies, leaving residents confused!

Provincial officials in Pakistan's southeastern Sindh province say migratory birds are flocking to wetlands in greater numbers - and lingering in them for longer - amid lockdown measures that have kept hunters and bird catchers confined to their homes.

Migratory birds catch 'a breath of relief' in Pakistan as lockdown keeps poachers away

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, and has now infected over 8 million people.&nbsp;Pandemics as deadly as this one may be a direct consequence of destruction of nature.

Leaders of prominent global organisations that serve as a platform for driving dialogue such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and WWF International claim that how we treat nature sets the groundwork for how it treats us.

In essence, they are calling for an end to the exploitation of nature and natural resources in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, which could indeed be nature’s defence mechanism against exploitation.

More on COVID-19:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-vaccine-could-be-on-market-in-mid-2021-says-unlisted-german-company-306522" hreflang="en">Coronavirus vaccine could be on market in mid-2021, says German company</a>

Governments across the world have allowed devastation of forests in the pursuit of economic growth. At the same time, illegal wildlife trade has been a major factor in the transference of diseases from animals to humans, many such environmental leaders told The Guardian.

<h6><img alt="This file photo taken on August 28, 2019 shows an aerial view of deforestation in the Menkragnoti Indigenous Territory in Altamira, Para state, Brazil, in the Amazon basin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="95858122-5541-4147-b4e8-1de8f38643f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-5_8.jpg" /> 
This file photo taken on August 28, 2019 shows an aerial view of deforestation in the Menkragnoti Indigenous Territory in Altamira, Para state, Brazil, in the Amazon basin | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

“Exotic” animals that are found in isolated areas, and then siphoned off to illegal markets may carry disease unknown to humans, like the deadly coronavirus which has left the scientists baffled for the last six month.

To avoid another pandemic in the future, a green preservation driven approach for the world is necessary, they additionally told the Guardian.

More on COVID-19:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/is-beijing-on-its-way-to-become-a-second-wuhan-306443" hreflang="en">Is Beijing on its way to become a second Wuhan?</a>

A report was recently published by the WWF, according to which, the risk of animal to human transmission of diseases is higher now than ever. “The risk of a new [wildlife-to-human] disease emerging in the future is higher than ever, with the potential to wreak havoc on health, economies and global security”, it said.

The organisations have called on the world leaders to rethink growth by making conservation of natural resources not only one of its policy tenets, but the defining one.

Ever since the virus slowed down countries across the world, especially in the West, researchers have warned about the possibility of more such pandemics if “nature” is not preserved.

In June, a UN environment chief had referred to the pandemic as an “SOS signal” for humans and the way we function.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, and has now infected over 8 million people. Pandemics as deadly as this one may be a direct consequence of destruction of nature.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, and has now infected over 8 million people. Pandemics as deadly as this one may be a direct consequence of destruction of nature. Leaders of prominent global organisations that serve as a platform for driving dialogue such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and WWF International claim that how we treat nature sets the groundwork for how it treats us. In essence, they are calling for an end to the exploitation of nature and natural resources in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic, which could indeed be nature’s defence mechanism against exploitation. More on COVID-19: Coronavirus vaccine could be on market in mid-2021, says German company Governments across the world have allowed devastation of forests in the pursuit of economic growth. At the same time, illegal wildlife trade has been a major factor in the transference of diseases from animals to humans, many such environmental leaders told The Guardian. This file photo taken on August 28, 2019 shows an aerial view of deforestation in the Menkragnoti Indigenous Territory in Altamira, Para state, Brazil, in the Amazon basin | AFP “Exotic” animals that are found in isolated areas, and then siphoned off to illegal markets may carry disease unknown to humans, like the deadly coronavirus which has left the scientists baffled for the last six month. To avoid another pandemic in the future, a green preservation driven approach for the world is necessary, they additionally told the Guardian. More on COVID-19: Is Beijing on its way to become a second Wuhan? A report was recently published by the WWF, according to which, the risk of animal to human transmission of diseases is higher now than ever. “The risk of a new [wildlife-to-human] disease emerging in the future is higher than ever, with the potential to wreak havoc on health, economies and global security”, it said. The organisations have called on the world leaders to rethink growth by making conservation of natural resources not only one of its policy tenets, but the defining one. Ever since the virus slowed down countries across the world, especially in the West, researchers have warned about the possibility of more such pandemics if “nature” is not preserved. In June, a UN environment chief had referred to the pandemic as an “SOS signal” for humans and the way we function.

Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation

Winners of the Sony World Photography Awards 2020 announced!

Today the world is observing World Environment day and millions are posting on social media about saving the planet and this year's theme is "Time for Nature". Watch report.

World Environment Day: The great barrier reef turns 'white'

Russia and neighbouring territories are facing a new threat: Mutant blood-sucking ticks.

According to official government papers, the region has recorded a surge in the number of tick bites recently.

In Serbia alone, the prevalence of ticks has multiplied 428 times, the Daily Mail first reported.

The details were divulged by the Russian Defence Ministry’s own newspaper, Zvezda. “Mutant ticks are attacking - this is not a tabloid headline but a fact”, the newspaper stated.

Dangerous to humans

These mutants of “arachnid” are very dangerous and can go further than just spread Lyme disease, and is one of the two usual kinds of ticks found in the region. Lyme disease attacks the joints, heart, and the nervous system.

<h6><img alt="A flask containing two ticks is pictured in the laboratory of the INRA (Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique) which constitutes a &quot;tiquothèque&quot; to study its geographical distribution, the presence of disease, the development of the Lyme disease on September 28, 2018 in Champenoux, eastern France." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5343c19-1d4c-4f5d-ac0a-0c763121aafc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_15.jpg" /> 
A flask containing two ticks is pictured in the laboratory of the INRA (Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique) which constitutes a "tiquothèque" to study its geographical distribution, the presence of disease, the development of the Lyme disease on September 28, 2018 in Champenoux, eastern France | AFP</h6>

 
In the sparsely populated Siberian regions where the ticks have shown up, hospitals are already running low on vaccines and supplies like medicines to treat tick bites in humans.

Besides that, more supplies needed to treat the diseases caused by ticks are also running low. The ticks can also cause encephalitis which causes the brain to inflame, and was responsible for 150,000 deaths in 2015 alone.&nbsp;

Short on supplies

Given the constraints in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, hospitals are already on edge. With mutant ticks in the picture, the healthcare system could go for a toss.

In Central Russia’s Krasnoyarsk region, over 8,215 tick bites have been reported, with over 2,125 in children alone. The suburban areas have 214 ticks per square kilometre, way above the safe figure of 0.5.

<h6><img alt="Detail of a tick over a paper sheet, at the molecular centre of Butantan Institute, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on August 25, 2009" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a8d5d2-2899-4804-95aa-bd938c8f4fe0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_11.jpg" /> 
Detail of a tick over a paper sheet, at the molecular centre of Butantan Institute, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on August 25, 2009 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Once ticks find their way onto humans, they bite and suck on human blood, which then infects the body. Many attribute this surge in ticks to the mild winter.

A mutant tick, combining the capabilities of both parent species, can launch more fatal attacks on the human body.

The area of Novosibirsk has witnessed a 150 per cent&nbsp;increase in tick-related cases. Due to this, 22 people have been diagnosed with encephalitis.

With the whole focus set on containing coronavirus, many cities claim there are no stocks of immunoglobulin and the encephalitis vaccine to treat the victims.

Russia and neighbouring territories are facing a new threat: Mutant blood-sucking ticks. According to official government papers, the region has recorded a surge in the number of tick bites recently.

Russia and neighbouring territories are facing a new threat: Mutant blood-sucking ticks. According to official government papers, the region has recorded a surge in the number of tick bites recently. In Serbia alone, the prevalence of ticks has multiplied 428 times, the Daily Mail first reported. The details were divulged by the Russian Defence Ministry’s own newspaper, Zvezda. “Mutant ticks are attacking - this is not a tabloid headline but a fact”, the newspaper stated. Dangerous to humans These mutants of “arachnid” are very dangerous and can go further than just spread Lyme disease, and is one of the two usual kinds of ticks found in the region. Lyme disease attacks the joints, heart, and the nervous system. A flask containing two ticks is pictured in the laboratory of the INRA (Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique) which constitutes a "tiquothèque" to study its geographical distribution, the presence of disease, the development of the Lyme disease on September 28, 2018 in Champenoux, eastern France | AFP In the sparsely populated Siberian regions where the ticks have shown up, hospitals are already running low on vaccines and supplies like medicines to treat tick bites in humans. Besides that, more supplies needed to treat the diseases caused by ticks are also running low. The ticks can also cause encephalitis which causes the brain to inflame, and was responsible for 150,000 deaths in 2015 alone. Short on supplies Given the constraints in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, hospitals are already on edge. With mutant ticks in the picture, the healthcare system could go for a toss. In Central Russia’s Krasnoyarsk region, over 8,215 tick bites have been reported, with over 2,125 in children alone. The suburban areas have 214 ticks per square kilometre, way above the safe figure of 0.5. Detail of a tick over a paper sheet, at the molecular centre of Butantan Institute, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on August 25, 2009 | AFP Once ticks find their way onto humans, they bite and suck on human blood, which then infects the body. Many attribute this surge in ticks to the mild winter. A mutant tick, combining the capabilities of both parent species, can launch more fatal attacks on the human body. The area of Novosibirsk has witnessed a 150 per cent increase in tick-related cases. Due to this, 22 people have been diagnosed with encephalitis. With the whole focus set on containing coronavirus, many cities claim there are no stocks of immunoglobulin and the encephalitis vaccine to treat the victims.

'Blood-sucking' mutant ticks storm Russia: Hospitals already overburdened by coronavirus feel the sting

Three engineers, including two of Indian-origin, are set to produce eco-friendly polymers using material from shrimps, mushrooms and other organisms to produce high-impact multilayered coatings that can protect soldiers in the battlefield from getting shot.

Two Indian-American engineers along with another at the University of Houston are using chitin -- a derivative of glucose found in the cellular walls of arthropods and fungi -- and 3D printing techniques to produce the coatings.

The coatings can protect soldiers against bullets, lasers, toxic gas and other dangers,&nbsp;Indian-American Alamgir Karim, Dow Chair Professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, told PTI.

Chitin offers promise as a commonly available material that could be processed and used in some products that now require petroleum-based plastics. They would be biodegradable by design, so they could decompose and return to Mother Nature.

Karim serves as director of the International Polymer and Soft Matter Centre and of the materials engineering programme at the university. He is principal investigator on the project, funded by a USD 660,000 grant from the US Department of Defence. Another Indian-American Venkatesh Balan, assistant professor of engineering technology, along with Megan Robertson, associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, are co-principal investigators.

The work will also have applications beyond the military, potentially expanding its environmental benefits.

Chitin is the primary component of cell walls in fungi and the exoskeletons of arthropods, including crustaceans, insects and mollusks. It's also found in fish scales. It can be harvested and processed to produce chitosan, or de-acetylated chitin, a fiber that is also produced and sold as a dietary supplement to treat obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and Crohn's disease.

Chitosan is easier to handle than the brittle chitin.

A stable source of chitosan polymers will be just the beginning.

Robertson will determine how to alter the atomic composition at the surface of the chitosan in order to improve how it interfaces with the functional layers. Her research includes designing sustainable and biodegradable polymers derived from renewable resources.

That enhanced compatibility between the chitosan and the polymer will improve the coating's ability to trap gas or absorb the impact from a projectile.

Karim is engineering a multilayer system that will be comprised of a hardened impact-resistant layer; an energy-absorbing crush layer reminiscent of the way modern cars are designed to crumple on impact, safeguarding the passenger capsule; a layer to absorb toxic gas, with charcoal nanoparticles dispersed in the chitosan; and a textile adhesion layer, which will bind the coating to canvas and other textiles.

That will involve 3D printing different chitin nanoparticles and chitosan-fabricated or reinforced crush-zone design structures and testing them to determine their ability to withstand an impact.

(with inputs from PTI)

Three engineers, including two of Indian-origin, are set to produce eco-friendly polymers using material from shrimps, mushrooms and other organisms to produce high-impact multilayered coatings that can protect soldiers in the battlefield from getting shot.

Three engineers, including two of Indian-origin, are set to produce eco-friendly polymers using material from shrimps, mushrooms and other organisms to produce high-impact multilayered coatings that can protect soldiers in the battlefield from getting shot. Two Indian-American engineers along with another at the University of Houston are using chitin -- a derivative of glucose found in the cellular walls of arthropods and fungi -- and 3D printing techniques to produce the coatings. The coatings can protect soldiers against bullets, lasers, toxic gas and other dangers, Indian-American Alamgir Karim, Dow Chair Professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, told PTI. Chitin offers promise as a commonly available material that could be processed and used in some products that now require petroleum-based plastics. They would be biodegradable by design, so they could decompose and return to Mother Nature. Karim serves as director of the International Polymer and Soft Matter Centre and of the materials engineering programme at the university. He is principal investigator on the project, funded by a USD 660,000 grant from the US Department of Defence. Another Indian-American Venkatesh Balan, assistant professor of engineering technology, along with Megan Robertson, associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, are co-principal investigators. The work will also have applications beyond the military, potentially expanding its environmental benefits. Chitin is the primary component of cell walls in fungi and the exoskeletons of arthropods, including crustaceans, insects and mollusks. It's also found in fish scales. It can be harvested and processed to produce chitosan, or de-acetylated chitin, a fiber that is also produced and sold as a dietary supplement to treat obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and Crohn's disease. Chitosan is easier to handle than the brittle chitin. A stable source of chitosan polymers will be just the beginning. Robertson will determine how to alter the atomic composition at the surface of the chitosan in order to improve how it interfaces with the functional layers. Her research includes designing sustainable and biodegradable polymers derived from renewable resources. That enhanced compatibility between the chitosan and the polymer will improve the coating's ability to trap gas or absorb the impact from a projectile. Karim is engineering a multilayer system that will be comprised of a hardened impact-resistant layer; an energy-absorbing crush layer reminiscent of the way modern cars are designed to crumple on impact, safeguarding the passenger capsule; a layer to absorb toxic gas, with charcoal nanoparticles dispersed in the chitosan; and a textile adhesion layer, which will bind the coating to canvas and other textiles. That will involve 3D printing different chitin nanoparticles and chitosan-fabricated or reinforced crush-zone design structures and testing them to determine their ability to withstand an impact. (with inputs from PTI)

Team of three, including two Indian-Americans, to create bulletproof coatings from nature

Several extremely rare snow leopards have been spotted on the outskirts of Kazakhstan's biggest city during the lockdown imposed due to the novel coronavirus, wildlife activists say, calling for more measures to protect the endangered species.

Rare snow leopards spotted in Kazakh city amid lockdown

Millions of cicadas are set to emerge in the United States after spending 17 years underground.

Cicadas, which come out periodically will start showing up across the southwestern parts of the United States like Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia.

This was witnessed earlier in 2003 and 2004, with some areas witnessing the recurrence in 2013, the BBC reported.

The projected number of insects per acre of land is currently 1.5 million, which could fluctuate.

<h6><img alt="p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5b1e3cb4-469b-40e4-abeb-0e66b439a075" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_6.jpg" /> 
A child holds up a cicada in Alexandria, Virginia 14 May 2004&nbsp;| AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

Living most of their lives underground as “nymphs”, cicadas are the longest-living insects in the world.

Cicadas survive underground by feeding on the roots of trees for over 12 to 17 years, which varies according to the species.

Classified as 15 “broods”, the current brood (Brood IX) is showing up this year as part of their 17-year cycle.

The nymphs grow out to create mud tubes “cicada huts” and through this permeate out of the soil, after which they mate.

<h6><img alt="p" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2c42333b-66e7-428f-ad6a-d3e48e6babaa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-4_3.jpg" /> 
5 year old Chase Harrison holds up a cicada he caught near his home in Alexandria, Virginia 14 May 2004 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The cicadas do not harm humans and are consumed by animals and birds as food.

However, the cicadas are capable of causing damage to trees. In their short lifespan of two to four weeks, adult cicadas attack trees like apple, peach, cherry, and pear.

The females lay eggs on vines.&nbsp;The male cicadas sing by vibrating their membranes on their stomach in a bid to attract females.

Millions of cicadas are set to emerge in the United States after spending 17 years underground. Cicadas, which come out periodically will start showing up across the southwestern parts of the United States like Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia.

Millions of cicadas are set to emerge in the United States after spending 17 years underground. Cicadas, which come out periodically will start showing up across the southwestern parts of the United States like Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia. This was witnessed earlier in 2003 and 2004, with some areas witnessing the recurrence in 2013, the BBC reported. The projected number of insects per acre of land is currently 1.5 million, which could fluctuate. A child holds up a cicada in Alexandria, Virginia 14 May 2004 | AFP Living most of their lives underground as “nymphs”, cicadas are the longest-living insects in the world. Cicadas survive underground by feeding on the roots of trees for over 12 to 17 years, which varies according to the species. Classified as 15 “broods”, the current brood (Brood IX) is showing up this year as part of their 17-year cycle. The nymphs grow out to create mud tubes “cicada huts” and through this permeate out of the soil, after which they mate. 5 year old Chase Harrison holds up a cicada he caught near his home in Alexandria, Virginia 14 May 2004 | AFP The cicadas do not harm humans and are consumed by animals and birds as food. However, the cicadas are capable of causing damage to trees. In their short lifespan of two to four weeks, adult cicadas attack trees like apple, peach, cherry, and pear. The females lay eggs on vines. The male cicadas sing by vibrating their membranes on their stomach in a bid to attract females.

Cicadas to swarm southwestern US after 17 years

One year old orphan bears Bradley and Cooper were released into the wild on Saturday (May 2) after being trained on how to make it on their own.

Young orphan bears released from sanctuary into the wild in Greece

With people locked inside their homes, nature is healing. The internet is flooded with delightful visuals of animals venturing into urban spaces. But the Coronavirus lockdown is also a threat to many of these animals. Pets are being abandoned due to misinformation about how the virus spreads, and thousands of strays have been left without food due to the lockdown. This report on Wide Angle looks at how COVID-19 has affected wildlife and domestic animals across the world. We also look at the measures that must be taken to contain other such zoonotic diseases in the future.

Coronavirus caused by 'disrespecting' animals? | Coronavirus lockdown

As the world observes the International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day on 18 April, we bring you top 5 breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are worth visiting.

Top 5 World Heritage Sites to Visit

Bird watchers across the world have brought to notice a natural catastrophe.

Thousands of birds like swallows and swifts that were migrating to Europe from Africa as part of their yearly cycles have been killed by high winds that have taken over Greece.

Hundreds of birds were found in Athens’ streets, with many residents reporting finding corpses in their balconies. Further up, dead birds were found in the Aegean islands and in a lake located close to the port of Nauplia in the Peloponnese.

“It’s a major disaster,” Maria Ganoti of the wildlife protection group Anima told AFP on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="winnows.com/india-news/79-per-cent-decline-in-indian-species-of-birds-study-281435" hreflang="en">79 per cent decline in Indian species of birds: Study</a>

“Over the last three days because of high winds in the north and over the Aegean Sea, thousands of small birds have been found dead or gravely injured,” she added.

“The night of April 5-6 was disastrous for migrating birds due to strong winds, low temperatures and rain in some regions”, The Greek ornithologist association said.

“Southerly winds pushed flocks of birds from north Africa into air currents from the north of the Aegean sea and particularly the islands”, the association added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="winnows.com/world/north-american-bird-population-fell-by-quarter-over-50-years-study-250699" hreflang="en">North America&nbsp;lost&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;3&nbsp;billion birds&nbsp;over 50 years: Study</a>

“To escape, exhausted birds, mainly swallows and swifts, which catch flying insects for food, headed for the Greek mainland”, it further said.

In their statement, the association has put forward requests to people for exercising caution when moving about in the streets, where tired birds seek temporary refuge after flying for thousands of kilometres.

Thousands of birds migrate towards northern territories during spring, and towards souther areas in autumn.

Bird watchers across the world have brought to notice a natural catastrophe. Thousands of birds like swallows and swifts that were migrating to Europe from Africa as part of their yearly cycles have been killed by high winds that have taken over Greece.

Bird watchers across the world have brought to notice a natural catastrophe. Thousands of birds like swallows and swifts that were migrating to Europe from Africa as part of their yearly cycles have been killed by high winds that have taken over Greece. Hundreds of birds were found in Athens’ streets, with many residents reporting finding corpses in their balconies. Further up, dead birds were found in the Aegean islands and in a lake located close to the port of Nauplia in the Peloponnese. “It’s a major disaster,” Maria Ganoti of the wildlife protection group Anima told AFP on Thursday. Also read: 79 per cent decline in Indian species of birds: Study “Over the last three days because of high winds in the north and over the Aegean Sea, thousands of small birds have been found dead or gravely injured,” she added. “The night of April 5-6 was disastrous for migrating birds due to strong winds, low temperatures and rain in some regions”, The Greek ornithologist association said. “Southerly winds pushed flocks of birds from north Africa into air currents from the north of the Aegean sea and particularly the islands”, the association added. Also read: North America lost nearly 3 billion birds over 50 years: Study “To escape, exhausted birds, mainly swallows and swifts, which catch flying insects for food, headed for the Greek mainland”, it further said. In their statement, the association has put forward requests to people for exercising caution when moving about in the streets, where tired birds seek temporary refuge after flying for thousands of kilometres. Thousands of birds migrate towards northern territories during spring, and towards souther areas in autumn.

Thousands of migratory birds killed by strong winds over Europe

Humans may have begun cultivation of plants over 10,000 years ago, a new research claims.

According to scientists, the Amazon basin witnessed cultivation of squash and cassava over 10,000 years ago.

The new findings from Bolivia claim that plants were grown in south-west Amazonia.

Earlier data tells us that the Middle East, China, Southwest Mexico and Northwest South America served as cultivation hotpots after the last ice age.

“[Previous work] identified south-west Amazonia as a potential centre of domestication because in this area they found a lot of wild relatives of domesticated plants,” said Dr Umberto Lombardo of the University of Bern, one of the authors of the research.

<h6><img alt="pp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ec3bd585-4c20-4b59-9b9d-ded96f6e788c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-8.jpg" /> 
Handout picture released by SETEC (Science and Technology Secretary of Amapa State) showing the biggest Dinizia excelsa tree, known in Brazil as Angelim vermelho, found in the Paru State Forest which is shared by the northern Brazilian states of Amapa and Para in the Amazon basin, on August 20, 2019 | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The authors shared their findings in the journal Nature, where they claimed to have used a variety of sources, including Google Earth to investigate over 6,600 forest islands.

Out of the 82 soil samples, 60 showed signs of human inhabitance. They found charcoal, shells, and bone fragments in the areas.

They further investigated the area and found that 4,700 forest islands were inhabited by human beings, where they got rid of their waste.

“They are places where people just threw their rubbish after eating or whatever they did,” said Lombardo.

This process must have gone on for over a thousand years.

Humans may have begun cultivation of plants over 10,000 years ago, a new research claims. According to scientists, the Amazon basin witnessed cultivation of squash and cassava over 10,000 years ago.

Humans may have begun cultivation of plants over 10,000 years ago, a new research claims. According to scientists, the Amazon basin witnessed cultivation of squash and cassava over 10,000 years ago. The new findings from Bolivia claim that plants were grown in south-west Amazonia. Earlier data tells us that the Middle East, China, Southwest Mexico and Northwest South America served as cultivation hotpots after the last ice age. “[Previous work] identified south-west Amazonia as a potential centre of domestication because in this area they found a lot of wild relatives of domesticated plants,” said Dr Umberto Lombardo of the University of Bern, one of the authors of the research. Handout picture released by SETEC (Science and Technology Secretary of Amapa State) showing the biggest Dinizia excelsa tree, known in Brazil as Angelim vermelho, found in the Paru State Forest which is shared by the northern Brazilian states of Amapa and Para in the Amazon basin, on August 20, 2019 | AFP The authors shared their findings in the journal Nature, where they claimed to have used a variety of sources, including Google Earth to investigate over 6,600 forest islands. Out of the 82 soil samples, 60 showed signs of human inhabitance. They found charcoal, shells, and bone fragments in the areas. They further investigated the area and found that 4,700 forest islands were inhabited by human beings, where they got rid of their waste. “They are places where people just threw their rubbish after eating or whatever they did,” said Lombardo. This process must have gone on for over a thousand years.

Inhabitants of the Amazon basin may have cultivated plants 10,000 years ago

Nature has unleashed its healing touch amid a nationwide lockdown in India. New Delhi has entered its 3rd week of clean air. The residents of Jalandhar woke up to the sight of the majestic Himalayas. WION's Palki Sharma gets you more.

Gravitas: Nature unleashes healing touch in India | Coronavirus Lockdown

Berlin zoo's newly born twin panda cubs made their public debut on Wednesday, attracting flocks of visitors, who also expressed their concerns and best wishes to China's Wuhan City as it fights the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak.

Berlin zoo's panda cubs make public debut five months after birth

Mexico's at-risk bees have found a new oasis in the southern state of Oaxaca. Threatened by pesticides, intensive agriculture and the effects of climate change, a sanctuary of sunflowers set up by local farmers could be a literal lifesaver for the black and gold insects.

Sunflower sanctuary, hope for bees in southern Mexico

Deadly Australian bushfires haze Sydney

Australia will offer farmers hurt by drought up to A$1 billion ($688.10 million) in cheap loans, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Thursday (November 7), as the government seeks to curb rising discontent from rural voters.

Australia offers drought ravaged farmers up to $688 million in cheap loans

An Alaska law promoting fossil fuel development infringes on the constitutional rights of young residents to a healthy environment, a lawyer told Alaska Supreme Court justices on Wednesday.

Alaska Supreme Court hears climate change lawsuit

Victor, a nine-year-old white-tailed eagle, has been enlisted to raise awareness of climate change with spectacular images of him soaring over the peaks in his Alpine home which has already been hard hit by the rise in global temperatures.

Victor the eagle's bird's eye view of Alps raises awareness of climate change

On Wednesday (September 25), smoke filled the air in Santa Elena, choking the few remaining residents that haven't yet evacuated in an effort to hold on to the homes they desperately hope won't be destroyed as blazes sweep through the area.

Bolivians flee as fires engulf forests

A group of foreign reporters on a trip to Syria organised by the Russian Defense Ministry were on Wednesday shown an elaborate network of caves in the strategic northwestern Idlib province said to have been used as a major rebel base.

Journalists see caves formerly used by rebels

The chief of an indigenous tribe in the heart of the world's largest rainforest - the Amazon - said on Monday (September 09) illegal loggers were causing damage to a protected area.

'They're taking all the riches from indigenous lands' - illegal loggers spoil pristine Amazon forest

Bolivia's President Evo Morales joined firefighters in Santa Rosa on Tuesday (August 27) to help crew put out wildfires, as the country struggles to contain blazes across Bolivia.

President Evo Morales joins firefighters to battle wildfires in Bolivia

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the importance of nature on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-environment-day-indian-missions-create-awareness-across-the-world-223976">World Environment Day</a>.

In a tweet on Wednesday PM Modi said, "Our planet and environment is something we all cherish greatly. Today on #WorldEnvironmentDay, we reiterate our commitment to ensure a cleaner planet."

"Living in harmony with nature will lead to better future".

The prime minister also posted a video where he emphasised on the importance of planting saplings.

In the video, he said planting saplings is not enough and people have to take care of it till it becomes a tree.

President Ram Nath Kovind also reaffirmed the commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet, adding that living in harmony with nature is a part of the Indian ethos.

"On World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet. Living in harmony with nature is a part of the Indian ethos. India is committed to addressing climate change and bequeathing a greener, eco-friendly habitat to our children," President Kovind wrote on his Twitter handle.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, BJP leader and former finance minister Arun Jaitley appealed people to plant trees."Plant trees on this World," he tweeted along with an image saying everyone must act as an agent of change and save the Earth and environment for future generations.

World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5.&nbsp;It is the United Nation's principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of our environment. It is organised around a theme in order to draw attention towards pressing environmental issues.

The theme for this year is "Beat Air Pollution" and the host nation is China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the importance of nature on the occasion of World Environment Day. In a tweet on Wednesday PM Modi said, "Our planet and environment is something we all cherish greatly.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the importance of nature on the occasion of World Environment Day. In a tweet on Wednesday PM Modi said, "Our planet and environment is something we all cherish greatly. Today on #WorldEnvironmentDay, we reiterate our commitment to ensure a cleaner planet." "Living in harmony with nature will lead to better future". The prime minister also posted a video where he emphasised on the importance of planting saplings. In the video, he said planting saplings is not enough and people have to take care of it till it becomes a tree. President Ram Nath Kovind also reaffirmed the commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet, adding that living in harmony with nature is a part of the Indian ethos. "On World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet. Living in harmony with nature is a part of the Indian ethos. India is committed to addressing climate change and bequeathing a greener, eco-friendly habitat to our children," President Kovind wrote on his Twitter handle. Meanwhile, BJP leader and former finance minister Arun Jaitley appealed people to plant trees."Plant trees on this World," he tweeted along with an image saying everyone must act as an agent of change and save the Earth and environment for future generations. World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5. It is the United Nation's principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of our environment. It is organised around a theme in order to draw attention towards pressing environmental issues. The theme for this year is "Beat Air Pollution" and the host nation is China. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi, President Kovind commit for cleaner and sustainable planet on World Environment Day

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

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

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

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

Discovery of spiky-necked dinosaur divulged

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