Conservationist Murders Threaten Costa Rica’s Eco-Friendly Reputation
The brutal murder of Jairo Mora, who was trying to protect endangered turtle eggs, was the latest in a string of crimes against environmentalists in the country. Since 1989, the murder of 10 environmentalists have gone unsolved. Environmental and human rights groups are calling for reforms to address the dangers these environmental protectors face.
Communities Leading the Way to Save Madagascar’s Mangroves
A recent study carried out by the University of Antananarivo and Blue Ventures found that between 1990 and 2010, Ambanja and Ambaro Bays lost approximately 20 percent of their mangroves. In northwest Madagascar, charcoal production for urban markets is the biggest driver of this loss.
Biodegradable Plastics Are as Persistent as Regular Plastics, Study Finds
Plastics designed to degrade don’t break down any faster than their conventional counterparts, according to research published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology.
World’s Largest Single Marine Reserve Created in Pacific
The UK Government announced the creation of the world’s largest contiguous ocean reserve, setting aside 322,000 square miles (830,000 square kilometers) around the remote Pitcairn Islands in the South Pacific for special protection.
Dealing with Beach Erosion; Maintenance, Monitoring Program Eyed; AL
Since a $50,000 beach repair emergency project was completed last July, a large chunk of beach has eroded and the council will soon consider implementing a beach monitoring and maintenance program.
A City Without a Shore: Rem Koolhaas, Dalieh and the Paving of Beirut’s Coast
A development frenzy has wiped out the natural coastline of Lebanon, replacing it with concreted marinas and upscale resorts that are off-limits to the public. Now developers have their eye on the last bit of Beirut waterfront
East Antarctica Melting Could be Explained by 2 Oceanic Gateways
Researchers have discovered two seafloor gateways that could allow warm ocean water to reach the base of Totten Glacier, East Antarctica’s largest and most rapidly thinning glacier. The discovery probably explains the glacier’s extreme thinning and raises concerns about how it will affect sea level rise.
Coastal Mangrove Squeeze in the Mekong Delta
The role of mangrove forests in providing coastal zone stability and protection against flooding is increasingly recognized. The specific root, stem, and canopy system of mangroves is highly efficient in attenuating waves and currents. The sheltered environment created by a healthy mangrove forest offers great sedimentation potential.
Starving Sea Lion Pups Stranding on California Coast
More than 1,100 starving and sickly sea lion pups have washed up along California’s coastline this winter. Rescue centers are working round the clock to try and rehabilitate hundreds of them to release them back into the wild.