#NGO Coastal Impact

[bumblebeeappletree]

Every week, Eco India brings you stories that inspire you to build a cleaner, greener and better tomorrow.

A Goa-based NGO is helping to protect the marine environment with its adopt-a-coral scheme. Climate change, overfishing and pollution are destroying the area's reefs. The NGO Coastal Impact hopes to stop the decline with coral adoption.

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Credits:

Supervising Producer: Nooshin Mowla

Script and Field Producer: Bharat Mirle

Video Editor: Sujit Lad

Associate Producer: Ipsita Basu

Director of Photography: Mithun Bhat

Underwater Cinematographer: Ron Bezbaruah

Voiceover: Chandy Thomas

Production Assistant: Rebekah Awungshi

Executive Producer: Sannuta Raghu

[greenthestral]

The Vanishing Waters: Unveiling the Alarming Rate of Degradation in Our World's Water-Related Ecosystems

Our planet's water-related ecosystems are the lifeblood of biodiversity and play a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth. These diverse habitats, ranging from serene lakes and flowing rivers to vibrant coral reefs and teeming wetlands, provide essential services that are essential for human survival and the well-being of countless species. However, a looming crisis threatens the very existence of these vital ecosystems. The world's water-related ecosystems are being degraded at an alarming rate, putting our environment, wildlife, and even our own future at risk. In this article, we will delve into the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to combat this pressing issue and ensure the survival of these precious ecosystems.

The Magnitude of the Crisis

The degradation of water-related ecosystems is a global challenge that requires immediate attention. Around the world, these habitats are facing a range of threats, including pollution, habitat destruction, overfishing, climate change, and invasive species. These factors, often interconnected, are wreaking havoc on the delicate balance within these ecosystems.

Pollution: A Slow Poison

One of the leading culprits behind the deterioration of water-related ecosystems is pollution. Industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage find their way into our waters, contaminating them with harmful chemicals and plastics. These pollutants not only harm aquatic life but also have far-reaching consequences for humans who rely on these water sources for drinking and agriculture.

Habitat Destruction: Losing Our Natural Havens

The relentless expansion of human activities, including deforestation and urbanization, is rapidly encroaching upon the habitats of various aquatic species. Wetlands are drained, mangroves are cleared, and rivers are diverted, disrupting the natural flow and interconnectedness of these ecosystems. As a result, countless species lose their homes and face the threat of extinction.

Overfishing: Depleting the Ocean's Bounty

Overfishing is pushing marine ecosystems to the brink of collapse. Unregulated and unsustainable fishing practices, coupled with the demand for seafood, are causing a decline in fish populations, disrupting food chains, and jeopardizing the livelihoods of coastal communities that depend on fishing for survival.

Climate Change: The Silent Menace

Perhaps the most insidious threat to water-related ecosystems is climate change. Rising global temperatures lead to the melting of polar ice caps, causing sea levels to rise and intensifying storms and floods. These changes have devastating effects on coastal areas, submerging critical habitats, and causing the loss of biodiversity.

Consequences of Ecosystem Degradation

The degradation of water-related ecosystems has severe consequences for both the environment and human societies. As these ecosystems collapse, they disrupt the services they provide, such as water purification, flood control, and carbon sequestration, impacting human health and economies worldwide.

Biodiversity Loss: A Precarious Chain Reaction

Water-related ecosystems are home to a vast array of species, many of which are uniquely adapted to these environments. As these habitats deteriorate, many species face extinction, triggering a chain reaction that affects the entire ecosystem. The loss of one species can have cascading effects on others, disrupting the delicate web of life.

Threats to Food Security

Fisheries, both marine and freshwater, play a significant role in providing sustenance to billions of people around the globe. The depletion of fish populations due to overfishing and habitat destruction threatens the food security and livelihoods of millions, particularly in developing countries that heavily rely on fish as a primary protein source.

The Impact on Human Health

The quality of our water is directly linked to our health. Polluted water can cause waterborne diseases, affecting millions of people each year. Additionally, the loss of water-related ecosystems reduces the availability of clean water for drinking and sanitation, exacerbating the global water crisis.

Rising Economic Costs

The degradation of water-related ecosystems comes with a hefty price tag. Loss of fisheries, increased frequency of floods, and the decline of coastal protection services result in billions of dollars in economic losses each year. The expenses related to ecosystem restoration and mitigation efforts add further strain on already burdened economies.

Restoring the Balance: A Call to Action

Despite the grim picture painted by the state of our water-related ecosystems, there is hope. By acknowledging the urgency of the situation and taking collective action, we can begin the process of restoring the balance and ensuring the survival of these vital habitats.

Strengthening Environmental Regulations

Governments and policymakers must implement and enforce stringent environmental regulations to control pollution, protect habitats, and promote sustainable fishing practices. Strengthening international cooperation on environmental issues is also essential, as water-related ecosystems transcend national boundaries.

Sustainable Water Management

Water is a finite resource, and sustainable water management is key to ensuring the survival of water-related ecosystems. Implementing efficient irrigation systems, reducing water wastage, and prioritizing the conservation of natural water bodies are vital steps in this direction.

Embracing Renewable Energy

Transitioning to renewable energy sources can significantly mitigate climate change and its impact on water-related ecosystems. Embracing solar, wind, and hydroelectric power can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit the rise in global temperatures.

Community Involvement and Education

Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is crucial for the success of any environmental initiative. Raising awareness about the importance of water-related ecosystems and involving communities in restoration projects fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Supporting Conservation Organizations

Supporting organizations like Green Thestral Inc. that are dedicated to environmental conservation can make a significant difference. Contributing to their efforts through donations or volunteer work helps fund critical projects aimed at protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems.

Conclusion

The state of the world's water-related ecosystems demands urgent attention and action from all corners of society. As individuals, communities, and nations, we hold the power to turn the tide and secure the future of these invaluable habitats. By addressing the root causes of degradation, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting conservation initiatives, we can pave the way for a healthier planet and a brighter future for all living beings. Together, let us safeguard the irreplaceable beauty and biodiversity of our water-related ecosystems for generations to come.

What's In It For Me? (WIIFM)

Are you concerned about the future of our planet and the well-being of its inhabitants? The degradation of the world's water-related ecosystems impacts us all. By understanding the urgency of this issue, we can take action to protect these vital habitats, safeguard our environment, and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. Discover how you can make a difference in preserving the beauty and biodiversity of our precious water ecosystems.

Call to Action (CTA)

Join the movement to save our water-related ecosystems! Take action today by supporting Green Thestral Inc., an organization dedicated to environmental conservation. Donate to fund critical projects, volunteer to restore habitats, and spread awareness about the urgent need to protect these fragile ecosystems. Together, we can make a positive impact and secure the future of our planet's water habitats. Act now and be a part of the solution!

Blog Excerpt

The world's water-related ecosystems are under siege, facing a grave threat from human activities and climate change. These habitats, from serene lakes and rivers to vibrant coral reefs and wetlands, are essential for biodiversity and provide crucial services that sustain life on Earth. However, pollution, habitat destruction, overfishing, and rising temperatures are pushing these ecosystems to the brink of collapse. In our latest blog article, we delve into the alarming rate of degradation in these habitats, the consequences of their decline, and the actions we can take to protect and restore them. Join us in the fight to safeguard the future of our water-related ecosystems.

Meta Description (320 characters)

Discover the alarming rate of degradation in the world's water-related ecosystems and its impact on our environment. Learn how you can take action and be a part of the solution to protect these vital habitats. Join Green Thestral Inc. in the fight for environmental conservation.

[kirame90]

J and Mick are still living in my head rent-free and during summer I did make a short 10-page epilogue of their first post-Fortress argument. You know, just drama for the sake of drama :D

You can check it out on my charity Patreon where all the pledges go to good causes each month :)

The charity of August 2024 is WildAid

WildAid inspires change and empowers the world to protect wildlife and vital habitats from critical threats including illegal wildlife trafficking, climate change, and illegal fishing. WildAid delivers impact at scale in two distinct ways: 1) creating innovative communications campaigns that inspire millions of people to protect endangered wildlife and reduce climate impacts, and 2) strengthening effective ocean enforcement of priority marine areas including marine protected areas, coastal fisheries, coral reefs, and blue carbon habitats with government, NGO, and community partners in 16 countries around the globe.

Read more about their programs here

[mariacallous]

On a chilly spring morning in March, British coast guards spotted something unusual around 100 kilometers off the Scottish shoreline: a dark stain, stretching 23 kilometers into the North Atlantic Ocean.

According to an internal analysis prepared by the coast guard’s satellite services and seen by POLITICO, the likely source of that stain was Innova, a tanker roughly the size of the Eiffel Tower that at the time was hauling 1 million barrels of sanctioned oil from Russia on its way to a refinery in India.

Yet the coast guard did little to investigate further, and the tanker — free from any repercussion — continues to trade oil today, helping fill the Kremlin’s war chest more than two years into its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The Innova is just one of hundreds in the world’s so-called shadow fleet, a collection of often aging, poorly maintained ships sailing in defiance of Western sanctions — and spreading environmental harm without consequences. 

A joint investigation by POLITICO and the not-for-profit journalism group SourceMaterial found at least nine instances of covert shadow fleet vessels leaving spills in the world’s waters since 2021, using satellite images from the SkyTruth NGO paired with shipping data from market analysis firm Lloyd’s List and commodity platform Kpler.

Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard told POLITICO the ships posed a “significant danger” to the marine environment. “The incidents [here] illustrate this.”

It’s a problem that’s only grown worse following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. With Moscow under Western sanctions, an increasing number of tankers are ferrying illicit goods — and potential environmental devastation — across the globe. Not only are these vessels creaky and largely unregulated, they’re often uninsured, meaning that in case of a leak, or more serious spill, a government would struggle to hold them accountable. 

POLITICO and SourceMaterial identified discharges everywhere from Thailand to Vietnam to Italy and Mexico, all linked to the shadow fleet. The tankers also passed through busy shipping corridors like the Red Sea and the Panama Canal, meaning any serious accident could rupture international trade routes. 

Experts believe it’s only a matter of time before one of these ships suffers a catastrophe with major environmental — and economic — devastation.

“The oil spills and risk of slicks are horrendous,” said Isaac Levi, Europe-Russia lead and a shadow fleet expert at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), a think tank. “Beyond the environmental damage, some of which will be irreversible, it’s a huge impact to coastal states that have to bear the cost of cleaning this up.”

In short: “It’s a ticking time bomb,” Levi said.

[reasonsforhope]

"At least 239 barriers, including dams and weirs, were removed across 17 countries in Europe in 2021, in a record-breaking year for dam removals across the continent.

Spain led the way, with 108 structures taken out of the country’s rivers. “Our efforts to expand dam removals across Europe are gathering speed,” said Pao Fernández Garrido, project manager for the World Fish Migration Foundation, who helped produce Dam Removal Europe’s annual report.

“An increasing number of governments, NGOs, companies and communities are understanding the importance of halting and reversing nature loss, and buying into the fact that dam removal is a river-restoration tool that boosts biodiversity and enhances climate resilience. We’re also seeing lessons being learned from previous dam removals, new countries kickstarting removals, and new funds, including crowdfunding.”

More than 1m barriers are estimated to exist on Europe’s rivers, with many built more than a century ago. At least 150,000 are old, obsolete barriers that serve no economic purpose.

Dams, weirs and other river obstacles block fish migration routes, often leading to the loss of breeding areas and reduced numbers of species such as salmon, sturgeon, trout and eel, which affects the wider biodiversity of ecosystems, including species ranging from eagles to otters. Free-flowing rivers also transport sediments and nutrients.

Pictured: Before-and-after shots of a dam removal on a river in Parc naturel régional du Haut-Jura, France, in 2021.

“Removing dams is a real need,” said Fernández Garrido. “We have hundreds of thousands of abandoned barriers, which is a safety problem. Dams affect water quality and underground water levels, cause channel and coastal erosion and beach disappearances, generate greenhouse gas emissions and lead to declines and even extinctions of migratory fish populations, with a 93% decline of migratory fish in Europe in the last 50 years. Dams have a negative impact on the environment, so if a dam or weir isn’t strictly necessary any more, we mustn’t pass the burden to future generations.”

Dam Removal Europe is a coalition of seven organisations, including the World Fish Migration Foundation, WWF, the Rivers Trust and Rewilding Europe, working to restore healthy, free-flowing rivers across the continent. The latest report found that 76% of the removals were of small dams and weirs, but 24% were higher than 2 metres. Three countries – Portugal, Montenegro, and Slovakia – recorded their first ever dam removals in 2021. In Finland, a functioning hydropower dam was also dismantled, the first of three on the Hiitolanjoki River, which, when completed, is expected to allow landlocked salmon to return to spawning grounds.

Pictured: The Cantabrian River Basin Authority in Spain removed 50 barriers in 2021. Photograph: CRBA

“This is the perfect example to show that when an operating hydropower dam isn’t needed, and energy can be supplied by other sources, it’s worth removing it and recovering the river,” said Fernández Garrido. “The river will be totally free of dams for the first time in over 120 years.” ...

Fernández Garrido continued, “We really want to see governments from all countries taking action and creating national grants and plans to completely free some of their rivers from obstacles, so there is, at least, a free and healthy river per country. We’re talking about creating a big shift.”"

-via The Guardian (US), 5/15/22

[donate4freeca]

Why is the COP27 important to charities?

Hi, and welcome to our blog about the significance of COP27 for Fundraising For Charity! As the world faces the repercussions of climate change, charities need to acknowledge and address these concerns. Nearly every aspect of charitable activity is impacted by climate change, including environmental preservation and humanitarian aid. The global summit COP27 presents a unique chance for charity to work together and change the world. This article will examine how COP27 could respond to these issues, provide instances of charitable organizations impacted by climate change, explain how readers could get involved, and highlight the advantages of supporting this crucial gathering.

Climate change's effects on humanitarian causes

The environment and philanthropic causes are both impacted by climate change. Think of companies that supply impoverished areas with safe water. Droughts become increasingly severe and frequent as a result of global warming, making it harder to get clean drinking water.

Wildfires, floods, and hurricanes further complicate the work of disaster relief organizations. Vulnerable communities are being destroyed and forced to relocate as a result of more frequent and severe natural disasters.

Global food security is also threatened by climate change. Hunger relief organizations have to contend with weather patterns that are shifting, which affects farming and leads to crop failures. Food shortages get worse as a result, and farmers suffer.

In addition to these direct repercussions, charities also suffer indirect ones due to climate change. Warming temperatures also contribute to the spread of infectious diseases like dengue fever and malaria, which presents extra issues for healthcare charities.

All sectors of charitable causes are impacted by climate change. Companies looking for future solutions and efforts must comprehend these ramifications. By acknowledging the challenges, charities can more effectively advocate for climate-friendly legislation at the COP27.

How the COP27 can handle problems pertaining to charitable work

Climate change is a significant challenge for charitable organizations. In vulnerable places, poverty, malnutrition, and displacement are made worse by climate change. In order to address these grave challenges, COP27 (Conference of Parties) needs to receive charitable attention.

At COP27, charities can collaborate with governments, legislators, and other stakeholders to find sustainable solutions. Talks and discourse at COP27 can lessen the impact of climate change on charitable giving. This entails promoting resilience-building in sensitive areas, renewable energy, and environmental conservation.

Let us illustrate how COP27 could assist charity in addressing climate change-related issues with a few real-world instances. Increasing sea levels damage livelihoods and increase community vulnerability, according to coastal organizations.

Hurricanes and droughts have damaged essential infrastructure or interfered with the supply of clean water in many poor nations where NGOs work.

Charities should go to workshops and seminars related to their activity during COP27. Through their practical knowledge and expertise, they can impact policy decisions in ways that benefit impacted communities throughout these discussions.

Giving to COP27 benefits nonprofit organizations and global sustainability initiatives. Funding for climate adaptation or global accords reducing greenhouse gas emissions could result from the meeting.

Some charitable organizations impacted by climate change

Globally, charities are being impacted by climate change. Numerous groups are adapting to novel concerns, ranging from poverty alleviation to environmental preservation.

A foundation that gives poor countries access to clean drinking water has been damaged by climate change. Water supplies dry up as droughts worsen, depriving populations of clean water. The company needs to make an investment in deeper wells or rainwater collection.

To save endangered species, a wildlife conservation organization battles habitat degradation brought on by rising temperatures and deforestation. Ecosystems are disrupted by climate change, putting fragile creatures in peril. To counteract these effects, the charity has stepped up its reforestation and support for environmental policies.

Disaster relief organizations face more obstacles as the frequency of catastrophic weather disasters rises. Worldwide populations suffer from increasingly frequent and severe hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. These organizations need to make resilience investments and modifications to their disaster response plans.

Charities' options for participating in COP27

As charities tackle both social and environmental issues, their participation in COP27 is essential. Charities can take part in these activities:

1. Spread awareness: Nonprofits can educate local communities about vulnerable groups and climate change. They can arrange webinars, workshops, or open events to increase awareness of the need of taking action.

2. Affect policy changes: Charities can support solutions to climate change and sustainable development for underserved communities. To put successful plans into action, they might collaborate with national and international policymakers.

3. Work together with other groups: Charities can make a bigger difference by partnering with other nonprofits that champion related causes. They can work together to accomplish goals by exchanging resources, knowledge, and best practices.

4. Promote sustainable behaviors: Motivate supporters and employees to adopt eco-friendly activities. This could be recycling, utilizing renewable energy, or encouraging environmentally friendly transportation.

5. Fundraising: Since charities rely on donations, COP27-related initiatives are a great way to raise money and spread awareness of the issue of climate change.

Participation by charities in COP27 events such as these will contribute to the creation of a sustainable future and enhance their standing as agents of change.

Benefits of COP27 support for nonprofit organizations and the global community

1. worldwide Impact: By aiding COP27, charities can combat climate change on a worldwide scale. At this global conference, charities can have an impact on environmental policy and actions that will help the environment and further their own causes.

2. Higher income Opportunities: Funding for environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives is increasing as the impact of climate change increases. Charities connected to the COP27 can take use of these funding opportunities to grow and assist more people.

3. Better Cooperation: COP27 brings together individuals, companies, NGOs, and governments. Through participation in this convention, charities can establish contacts with other like-minded groups. Cooperation fosters advocacy, resource sharing, and knowledge sharing, all of which can boost influence.

4. Adaptation Strategies: Organizations that provide healthcare and disaster relief in places that are vulnerable to climate change confront unique challenges. At COP27, charities can pick up innovative adaptation strategies from international experts and incorporate them into their operations.

5. Sustainability: Charities are encouraged to create sustainable practices by supporting COP27. Carbon emissions could be decreased by energy-efficient infrastructure upgrades or fieldworkers using eco-friendly transportation.

6. Environmental Education: COP27 assists organizations in educating beneficiaries and supporters about the issues of climate change. Through outreach and education initiatives related to the conference's main themes, charities encourage environmental protection on a personal and local level.

In summary:

The fight against climate change requires charities. We've found that charitable initiatives are impacted by climate change. Organizations assist the most vulnerable during natural disasters, food and water shortages, and other emergencies.

Through Ways To Fundraise For Charity participation in COP27, these issues can be resolved. On this global platform, they might collaborate with governments, legislators, scientists, and other interested parties to develop sustainable policies and initiatives.

During COP27, charities can draw attention to their concerns over climate change. They can back programs that tackle these problems and encourage sustainability in their business practices.

Charities can extend their impact and reach beyond specific projects or programs by providing financial or collaborative support for COP27 activities. They send a strong message that everyone in society must work together to save the environment by supporting this global climate action effort.

[tomorrowusa]

Russia is losing the war. Drunken Russian combatants are even shooting at each other. So in desperation, Vladimir Putin blew up the most important dam in southern Ukraine. The result was the ecological equivalent of an atomic bomb.

Ukrainian scientists are waiting for the water to subside before fully assessing the environmental impact of the Kakhovka dam breach, but one former minister warned it could prove the country’s worst ecological disaster since the Chornobyl nuclear meltdown.

Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, called an emergency meeting of his security council after the partial collapse of one of the biggest dams in the world. The country’s public prosecutor said it is investigating a possible case of “ecocide”.

[ ... ]

Analysts told the Guardian that the scale of the damage would depend on the amount of water released and the extent of the damage to the barrier, both of which are still unknown. At the very least, it has forced the evacuation of thousands of people, flooded national parks and jeopardised water supplies to millions of people. In the worst-case scenario, it may pose a long-term danger to Europe’s biggest nuclear plant, Zaporizhzhia, and could also spread agrotoxins and petrochemicals into the Black Sea.

This Putin-made disaster, like Chernobyl, will have an impact outside Ukraine.

Former minister of ecology Ostap Semerak told the Guardian that in his opinion this was the greatest threat currently posed by the breach, but other dangers could emerge in the days and weeks ahead as flood waters engulf cities, petrol stations and farms, become contaminated by agrochemicals and oil products and then flow into the Black Sea.

“This will have an impact on Romania, Georgia, Turkey and Bulgaria. It will be harmful for all the region” he said. “Our government has announced this is the biggest environmental catastrophe in Europe over the past 10 years, and I think it may be the worst in Ukraine since Chornobyl in 1986.”

The turbine room at the hydropower plant is already under water and 150 tonnes of industrial lubricants have been washed away, according to Zelenskiy.

Olena Kravchenko, the director of the Ukrainian Environment People Law NGO, said Russia’s “ecocide” risked “unprecedented environmental consequences” to the areas downstream of the Dnipro River, the Dnipro estuary, and ecosystems in the coastal area of the Black Sea.

With images of entire houses being washed away, she says the river will be polluted by debris and hazardous chemicals. Water supplies could be reduced or cut in several cities, including Kherson, and irrigation may prove impossible in swathes of agricultural land, affecting crops.

[ ... ]

She expected to see mass mortality of fish, mollusks and other aquatic species, widespread habitat disruption and negative impacts of ecologically important national parks: Nyzhniodniprovs’kyi, Kam’yanska Sich, Biloberizhzhia Sviatoslava, the Black Sea Biosphere Reserve (which is also a Unesco biosphere reserve) and the Kinburn Spit Regional Landscape Park.

Putin is not just a war criminal, he is an enemy of the planet.

She argued that if Russia had breached the dam, it would be sufficient for a charge of “ecocide” under Article 441 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

Denys Tsutsaiev from Greenpeace Central and eastern Europe told the Guardian that the dam destruction caused by the Russian military presence “once again puts in danger thousands of lives of civilians and nature”.

Despite the rantings of Tucker Carlson and his pals in the Kremlin, US intelligence points to Russia being responsible for the dam's destruction.

It had been suspected since the Russian retreat from Kherson late last year that they had tried to destroy the Nova Kakhovka dam. It is possible that they failed to do so last year but weakened it badly enough so that it finally gave way this week. From November 12th...

Damage found on major Ukrainian dam after fears Russia could blow it up and flood area

US satellite imagery company Maxar, which released the pictures, said: "Satellite images this morning ... reveal significant new damage to several bridges and the Nova Kakhovka dam in the aftermath of the Russian retreat from Kherson across the Dnipro river.”

It added sections of the northern extent of the dam and sluice gates had been "deliberately destroyed".

The possibility of Russia destroying the Kakhovka plant was previously raised by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a major US think tank.

The ISW said in its 21 October update: “Russian forces will likely attempt to blow up the dam at the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP) to cover their withdrawal and to prevent Ukrainian forces from pursuing Russian forces deeper into Kherson Oblast.

“Russian forces will almost certainly blame Ukraine for the dam attack.”

There's other talk that Russia blew up the dam as a prelude to a retreat from Crimea. Much of Crimea's water comes from the North Crimean Canal which flows out of the Kakhovka Reservoir at Nova Kakhovka.

Putin will, of course, blame the dambusting on Ukraine and then possibly say that Russia needs to leave Crimea due to the disruption of the water supply.

As @neil-gaiman would say, "wait and see".

[myrawjcsmicasereports]

Amphibious Vehicles for Disaster Relief and Emergency Medicine by Richard Coe in Journal of Clinical Case Reports Medical Images and Health Sciences 

Abstract

Keywords: Amphibious, Disaster relief, Emergency medicine.

 Abbreviation: NGO: nongovernmental organization

Dear Editor,

With the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, there is a compelling case to be made for the use of amphibious vehicles in natural as well man-made disasters and emergencies. Applications range from the supply of humanitarian logistics, water production, and in particular – mobile medical units. These could form a very efficient first response capability for prehospital and Emergency Medical Services and enable access to areas cut off by flooding, assist coastal and island communities, and negotiate natural boundaries such as rivers or where bridges have been compromised.

Current amphibious response capacity is primarily conducted by military units which is costly in the first instance and the use of uniformed personnel with military hardware can be perceived in a negative light by those in need. There is a limited period that naval and auxiliary vessels can remain on locations as these are strategic assets and will need to return to their primary roles in the country of origin.  This is further compounded by the blanket refusal of some major relief nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to work alongside any military entity. There have been cases of retired vintage amphibious vehicles for tours used in hurricane response efforts in the US but with limited effect given the age and general unreliability of the equipment.

Tortuga Amphibious Vehicles aim to address this by utilizing modern, mass-produced donor chassis types, which are readily supported with spares and repair. The conversion process from donor to finished unit is also a very cost-effective approach, avoiding the need to design and build from scratch. Several types have been exported overseas to date, including two units for an evacuation center in Manila, and a number of communities have been reached with medical supplies ad water that were isolated by flooding in China by the Red Cross. The response vehicles can be deployed by sea to coastal and island communities by any number of civilian vessels of opportunity to promote a rapid first response. Similarly, as capable off-road vehicles, they can penetrate any inland areas and be independent of bridges where these may have been impacted. The concept also puts a very capable amphibious response solely in civilian hands, including local personnel as operators, which would offer employment opportunities. The problem of deploying units to disaster sites can be addressed by the use of laid up offshore supply vessels of which there is a global over-supply due to the fluctuating oil price. There are large numbers of these ships in storage around the world, crucially in areas affected by natural disasters such as Indonesia, the Caribbean, and Africa that could be re-purposed cost effectively. This has been the subject of several studies and we are in discussion with a large shipbroker in Singapore to examine this in more detail.

Advances in scaling down of medical devices in size means that a single vehicle could be very well-equipped to deal with a range of prehospital and medical emergencies. Battery powered x-ray systems along with handheld ultrasound imaging machines to name but two examples enable portability on and off the vehicle and would complement standard emergency medical equipment. There are now ultra-low temperature portable fridges on the market which are battery powered with solar capacity and extremely effective in maintaining cold chains. Vaccine roll-out to remote, rural communities would also be a key feature of amphibious operations and could be used to expand COVID-19 vaccination as well as conventional immunization programs that have been suspended due to the pandemic. Having the means to maintain ultra-low temperatures on board the vehicle outside of urban and peri-urban settings where distributed grid power might also be fragile could make significant advances in protection against Ebola virus and others, helping contain outbreaks.

There have been several events in the past few years where this capability would have been welcome, and this has been expressed by a number of individuals attending AidEx in Brussels and the International Disaster Response Expo in London, both in late 2018.

Large areas of the Philippines devastated by Typhoon Haiyan in 2013 could have been serviced by amphibious clinics, able to reach outlying islands in need. Their deployment would have complemented helicopter operations which were extremely stretched at the time and were in any case very costly to run and maintain and there were several cases of air accidents. Water production equipment mounted to the vehicles would have been of particular benefit as solar powered reverse osmosis plant would be capable of making water from a variety of fresh, brackish and salt sources. With correct pre-filtering, contaminated water could offer a viable feedstock.

In 2018, the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia was impacted by a tsunami with the city of Palu badly affected. The airport was forced to close as a result of a 500m crack in the runway. Port and harbor infrastructures were also damaged, and a major bridge collapsed. All of this affected the scale and speed of the response with the traditional focus on airlifts. Many of the beaches close to affected areas were ideal landing points for an amphibious vehicle, which deployed off vessels readily able to reach the area, could have made a profound difference, bypassing the need for harbor and airport facilities. Hospitals were also damaged with victims having to be treated in the open or in tents and under canvas. A self-contained mobile clinic would have proved very effective and would have the means to refuel and resupply from assistance vessels offshore that were unable to dock. This would ensure continued effectiveness.

Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas in 2019 was another example of damage to harbors and airports which hampered aid efforts. A responder who was involved was certain that having amphibious capability would have proved extremely useful transferring relief material and supplying emergency medical aid from offshore assets and also able to move with relative ease between islands.

Most recently was the case of the earthquake and subsequent tropical storm in Haiti which affected the Southwest peninsula. Relief and medical aid were focused on delivery to the capital before being trucked out, but was compromised by criminal gangs stopping convoys leaving Port au Prince. Perversely, the follow-on tropical storm washed away bridges and roads leading to the affected areas. This again would have been a strong case for the use of amphibious vehicles which would have been able to insert medical and relief aid exactly where and when needed, with good landing points around the peninsular all close to the points of need. This would avoid having to negotiate the many obstacles that distributing efforts from the capital posed and so increase efficiency of response.

But medicine does not pay attention to this, because it is engaged in business. In the first place in terms of mortality are violations of arterial blood flow. This is ischemia of the heart, lower extremities and the naked brain. But no one sees that the cause is a violation of the outflow of venous blood - the biomechanics of walking. Violation of the sequence of muscle contraction also leads to overload of the central nervous system, which began to be noted as chronic fatigue syndrome.

The process of walking upright, maintaining a stable position of the body is carried out according to the addition of inherent, unconditioned reflexes independent of our desires. Therefore, a violation of walking in the case of deformities of the feet leads to a change in the position of the bones in all the higher lying joints of the skeleton and a violation of the contractile pumping function of the muscles. The body perceives changes in walking for a dance, which leads to overloads of the Central Nervous System. You just stood on your heel, and the signal from the mechanoreceptors under your fingers says you are already pushing, jumping.

Another case, not associated with a disaster scenario, was related to us by an NGO working in Mozambique. It concerned a consignment of vaccines for a clinic in a very remote area of the country that were collected at the airport in the capital by truck. As the condition of the roads rapidly deteriorated not far from the city center, the load was then transferred to taxis able to make better progress with the conditions. This was then repeated with the use of motorbikes which were able to cope with the worst of the roads where cars were not practical. However, when faced with one of the rivers on the route, the load was again transferred to canoes and once on the opposite bank, it was a case of hand carrying the cool boxes to the end user. At each point where the load was transferred to a different mode of transport, the cold chain was put at risk as well as the coolboxes themselves which could have been lost or damaged. This could be avoided if using an amphibian fitted with reliable on-board generation and backed up by solar and battery banks as a means of redundant supply. A vehicle could receive vaccines and medicine at the point of origin, such as the airport, and then be able to travel to the point of end-use without the need to transfer the load. This would be crucial in maintaining and guaranteeing vital cold chains including ultra-low applications.

We have the support of the Humanitarian Logistics Association (Corby, Northants, UK) and are now at the point where we intend to ship a test vehicle to Thailand or Indonesia and run a series of demonstration trials for relevant interested parties. These will be used to test techniques and equipment and develop standard operating procedures along with a breakdown of running and maintenance costs during deployment. This would lead to accurately quantifying all aspects of a response of this kind which can be shared with potential adopters to compare against standard response types and costs.

We would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with NGOs and government agencies in these trials, if possible. Advisors include a very well-respected doctor in Jakarta who has long been involved with emergency medicine in the region and is assisting with the design and layout of the clinical aspect of the vehicle, including the equipment that could be installed and carried. A large solar energy training provider in the US is happy to be involved in the design of the solar power requirements and we are investigating the potential use of hydrogen fuel cells for clean, quiet power production These are silent and do not produce emissions such as carbon monoxide, making them ideal for use in confined areas.

[socialenterprise23]

Effective Strategies for Strengthening Community Resilience Against Natural Disasters

Natural disasters are unpredictable, often devastating events that can leave communities vulnerable and in disarray. However, with proactive preparation and strategic planning, communities can strengthen their resilience against these calamitous occurrences. Building community resilience and fostering community ownership is pivotal in this endeavour, ensuring that populations are not only prepared to face disasters but can also recover from them swiftly and efficiently. This blog explores effective strategies that can be employed to enhance community resilience against natural disasters.

Understanding Community Resilience

Community resilience refers to the sustained ability of a community to withstand, adapt to, and recover from adversity, such as natural disasters. It involves a holistic approach encompassing various dimensions including social, economic, environmental, and institutional aspects. Building community resilience is not a one-time effort but a continuous process that requires active participation from all community members.

Strategy 1: Risk Assessment and Planning

The first step in building community resilience is understanding the risks specific to the community. This involves identifying potential natural disasters that could impact the area, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, or wildfires. Once risks are identified, it’s crucial to develop a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan that includes:

Emergency response procedures: Clearly outline the actions to be taken in the event of various disasters.

Resource allocation: Ensure there are adequate resources and that they are readily available when needed.

Evacuation routes and shelters: Establish and maintain clear, accessible evacuation routes and safe shelters.

Strategy 2: Community Education and Training

Knowledge is power, and educating the community about the risks and the necessary precautions to take during natural disasters is fundamental. This can be achieved through regular training sessions, workshops, and drills that:

Educate individuals: Focus on teaching community members about the hazards and provide training on basic survival skills.

Build emergency teams: Train volunteers in advanced rescue operations and first aid to assist during disasters.

Involve schools: Incorporate disaster readiness into the school curriculum to ensure that children are aware and prepared.

Strategy 3: Strengthening Infrastructure

To withstand the impacts of natural disasters, it is essential to build resilient infrastructure. This includes:

Upgrading buildings: Ensuring that all structures comply with safety standards that are robust enough to withstand disasters.

Protecting critical facilities: Hospitals, fire stations, and utilities should be prioritised in the resilience-building efforts.

Utilising technology: Implement early warning systems and communication tools that can help in early detection and efficient information dissemination during disasters.

Strategy 4: Environmental Management

Proper environmental management plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of natural disasters. Effective environmental strategies include:

Flood control: Implement measures such as levees, dams, and rain gardens to manage floodwaters.

Forest management: Reduce the risk of wildfires through controlled burns and clearing of underbrush.

Coastal protection: Preserve and restore mangroves, coral reefs, and dunes which provide natural barriers against hurricanes and tsunamis.

Strategy 5: Community Collaboration and Partnership

Building community ownership is integral to resilience. This involves:

Engaging local leaders: Work closely with local leaders who can influence and motivate the community.

Partnering with NGOs and private sectors: Collaborate with non-governmental organisations and the private sector to bring in additional resources and expertise.

Creating community networks: Establish networks that can offer mutual aid and share resources among communities during emergencies.

Strategy 6: Sustainable Economic Practices

A community’s economic stability is significantly tied to its resilience. Promoting sustainable economic practices that can help communities bounce back after disasters include:

Diversifying income sources: Encourage the development of multiple income avenues to reduce vulnerability.

Investing in local businesses: Support local enterprises which are critical to the community’s recovery after a disaster.

Insurance and savings programs: Promote the adoption of insurance and the establishment of savings programs that can aid in post-disaster recovery.

Building community resilience against natural disasters is a multifaceted endeavour that requires the integration of strategic planning, community involvement, and continuous improvement. By fostering a culture of preparedness, enhancing infrastructures, managing the environment responsibly, and promoting economic stability, communities can not only withstand the immediate impacts of natural disasters but also thrive in their aftermath. Implementing these strategies will ensure that community resilience is not just a goal but a sustainable reality. Through collective effort and ownership, communities can transform their vulnerabilities into strengths, paving the way for a safer, more resilient future.

[corelaborg]

Impact of Tourism and Development on Marine Environments: The Role of Testing in Dubai

Dubai, a bustling hub of tourism and development, boasts stunning coastlines and vibrant marine ecosystems. However, the rapid growth in tourism and infrastructure can pose significant risks to these delicate environments. Understanding the impact of human activity on marine life is crucial, and this is where Marine Sea Water & Sediments Tests in Dubai come into play.

The Booming Tourism Industry

Dubai attracts millions of tourists each year, drawn by its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and world-class attractions. While tourism contributes significantly to the local economy, it also places immense pressure on marine ecosystems. Activities such as boating, diving, and beach construction can lead to increased pollution and habitat degradation.

Key Issues Affecting Marine Environments

Pollution: Wastewater discharge from hotels and recreational activities can introduce harmful pollutants into the sea. Oil spills and plastic waste further exacerbate the problem, impacting water quality and marine life.

Coastal Development: The construction of marinas, hotels, and artificial islands often disrupts natural habitats. Mangroves and coral reefs, essential for maintaining biodiversity, face threats from encroaching development.

Overfishing: Increased tourism can lead to overfishing, depleting fish populations and disrupting the ecological balance.

The Importance of Marine Testing

To safeguard Dubai's marine environments, Marine Sea Water & Sediments Tests are essential. These tests help monitor the health of coastal ecosystems and ensure that regulatory standards are met.

Benefits of Marine Testing

Pollution Monitoring: Regular testing of sea water and sediments allows for the detection of pollutants, enabling authorities to take action before they cause significant harm.

Biodiversity Assessment: Understanding the composition of marine life helps in assessing the overall health of the ecosystem. This data is crucial for conservation efforts.

Regulatory Compliance: Testing ensures that industries and tourism operators adhere to environmental regulations, minimizing their impact on marine environments.

Public Awareness: Testing results can inform the public and stakeholders about the health of the marine ecosystem, fostering a sense of responsibility towards conservation.

Testing Methods and Technologies

Various methods are employed for Marine Sea Water & Sediments Tests in Dubai. These include:

Water Sampling: Collecting water samples from various locations to analyze for pollutants and other parameters.

Sediment Analysis: Examining sediment samples to assess contamination and the health of benthic organisms.

Biodiversity Surveys: Utilizing technology to study marine species diversity and population health.

Collaborative Efforts for Marine Protection

In Dubai, government agencies, NGOs, and private sectors collaborate to promote marine conservation. Regular testing provides critical data that informs policies and practices aimed at protecting marine environments.

Conclusion

As Dubai continues to grow as a tourism hotspot, it is imperative to balance development with environmental sustainability. Marine Sea Water & Sediments Tests in Dubai play a vital role in monitoring and protecting the health of marine ecosystems. By investing in rigorous testing and conservation efforts, we can ensure that future generations enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of Dubai's coastal waters.

For reliable and accurate marine testing solutions, consider partnering with CORE Laboratory. With advanced technologies and expertise, CORE Laboratory is committed to supporting the health of marine environments in Dubai, helping to secure a sustainable future for both tourism and nature.

[mirrikhinfratech]

Resilient Infrastructure for a Changing World: Mirrikh Infratch's Approach to Adaptation and Mitigation

In an era marked by rapid climate change, escalating natural disasters, and urbanization pressures, resilient infrastructure has become a critical priority. Mirrikh Infratch stands at the forefront of this movement, implementing innovative strategies to ensure that infrastructure can withstand and adapt to the dynamic challenges of our world. By focusing on both adaptation and mitigation, Mirrikh Infratch is pioneering a holistic approach to building resilient infrastructure.

Integrating Advanced Technologies

Mirrikh Infratch leverages advanced technologies to enhance the resilience of its infrastructure projects. One of the key technologies in use is Building Information Modeling (BIM),Dholera smart city in gujrat which allows for precise planning and simulation of construction projects. BIM helps in identifying potential vulnerabilities and testing various scenarios to ensure that infrastructure can withstand diverse stresses, from natural disasters to human-made disruptions.

Additionally, the Internet of Things (IoT) plays a crucial role in Mirrikh Infratch’s approach. IoT sensors embedded in infrastructure continuously monitor structural health, environmental conditions, and usage patterns. This real-time data allows for proactive maintenance and swift responses to emerging issues, thus extending the lifespan of infrastructure and reducing the risk of catastrophic failures.

Climate-Adaptive Design

As climate change intensifies, designing infrastructure that can adapt to new and extreme weather patterns is essential. Mirrikh Infratch incorporates climate-adaptive design principles into its projects.Dholera sir This includes the use of flood-resistant materials and elevated structures in areas prone to flooding, as well as designing buildings and roads that can withstand extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and high winds.

For example, in coastal regions, Mirrikh Infratch constructs seawalls, flood barriers, and elevated platforms to protect against rising sea levels and storm surges. In urban settings, green roofs and permeable pavements are used to manage stormwater runoff, reducing the risk of urban flooding and enhancing water conservation.

Sustainable Materials and Practices

Sustainability and resilience go hand in hand in Mirrikh Infratch’s projects. The company prioritizes the use of sustainable materials that are not only environmentally friendly but also durable and resilient. Recycled steel and concrete, as well as locally sourced materials, reduce the environmental impact and enhance the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure.

Mirrikh Infratch also employs construction practices that minimize waste and energy consumption.Dholera smart city Prefabrication and modular construction techniques are used to ensure precision and reduce the time and resources required on-site. These methods contribute to the overall sustainability and resilience of the infrastructure, making it more adaptable to future changes.

Enhancing Community Resilience

Resilient infrastructure is not just about physical structures; it also involves building resilient communities. Mirrikh Infratch actively engages with local communities to enhance their capacity to respond to and recover from disruptions. This includes developing emergency response plans, conducting resilience training, and fostering strong community networks.

Furthermore, Mirrikh Infratch collaborates with local governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to ensure that infrastructure projects meet the specific needs of communities.Dholera international airport By incorporating local knowledge and priorities, the company creates infrastructure that is not only resilient but also aligned with the social and economic goals of the communities it serves.

Mitigation Strategies

In addition to adaptation, Mirrikh Infratch focuses on mitigation strategies to reduce the impact of climate change and other environmental challenges. Renewable energy integration, such as solar and wind power, is a key component of the company’s projects. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, these initiatives help mitigate the effects of climate change and promote sustainable development.

Energy-efficient designs and smart grids are also part of Mirrikh Infratch’s mitigation strategy. Smart grids enhance the efficiency of energy distribution and usage, while energy-efficient buildings reduce overall energy demand. These measures not only lower greenhouse gas emissions but also make infrastructure more resilient to energy supply disruptions.

Conclusion

Mirrikh Infratch’s approach to resilient infrastructure is comprehensive and forward-thinking, addressing both adaptation and mitigation. By leveraging advanced technologies, ABCD Building in Dholera incorporating climate-adaptive design, using sustainable materials, and enhancing community resilience, the company is setting new standards for infrastructure in a changing world. As the challenges of climate change and urbanization continue to grow, Mirrikh Infratch’s innovative strategies provide a blueprint for building resilient, sustainable, and adaptable infrastructure that can withstand the test of time. Through its visionary approach, Mirrikh Infratch is not only shaping the future of infrastructure but also contributing to a more resilient and sustainable world.

[chennaitop10article]

 Sustainable Practices in Chennai’s International Schools: Going Green in Education

As the world faces the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, educational institutions are increasingly recognizing their role in fostering sustainable practices. Chennai’s international schools are at the forefront of this movement, integrating green initiatives into their curricula, infrastructure, and community activities. This article explores how these schools are going green and the impact of these efforts on students and the broader community.

Discover the top IGCSE schools in Chennai, offering exceptional international education, state-of-the-art facilities, and a diverse curriculum to nurture academic excellence and holistic development for students.

Integrating Sustainability into the Curriculum

One of the fundamental ways international schools in Chennai are promoting sustainability is by embedding environmental education into their curricula. These schools aim to nurture environmentally conscious students who understand the importance of sustainable living and are equipped to address ecological challenges.

Environmental Science Courses: Many schools offer dedicated courses in environmental science that cover topics such as climate change, renewable energy, and biodiversity. These courses often include hands-on projects, encouraging students to engage with the material actively and understand its real-world applications.

Interdisciplinary Approach: Sustainability is not confined to science classes. Schools are adopting an interdisciplinary approach where subjects like geography, economics, and social studies incorporate sustainability topics. For example, a geography lesson might explore the impacts of urbanization on local ecosystems, while an economics class could examine the financial benefits of green technologies.

Extracurricular Activities: Beyond the classroom, schools support clubs and organizations focused on environmental stewardship. Eco-clubs, for instance, organize activities such as tree planting, beach clean-ups, and recycling drives, fostering a sense of responsibility and teamwork among students.

Sustainable Infrastructure and Operations

Chennai’s international schools are also making significant strides in greening their infrastructure and daily operations. By adopting sustainable building practices and energy-efficient technologies, these institutions serve as living laboratories for students.

Green Buildings: Some schools have constructed or renovated their buildings to meet green building standards. Features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and natural ventilation reduce the environmental footprint of these campuses. These buildings often become teaching tools, with students learning about sustainable architecture and resource management through tours and projects.

Energy Efficiency: Schools are investing in energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems. Motion-sensor lights, LED bulbs, and energy-efficient HVAC systems help reduce energy consumption. Monitoring systems that track energy use provide data that students can analyze, fostering a practical understanding of energy management.

Waste Management: Comprehensive waste management programs are being implemented to minimize waste generation and promote recycling. Schools set up segregated waste bins, composting units, and even recycling workshops where students learn to repurpose materials creatively.

Community Engagement and Outreach

The impact of sustainable practices in Chennai’s international schools extends beyond their campuses. These schools are actively engaging with the local community to promote environmental awareness and action.

Partnerships with NGOs: Schools collaborate with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to support environmental initiatives. These partnerships provide students with opportunities to participate in broader community projects, such as coastal conservation efforts and urban farming.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Students and teachers often spearhead campaigns to raise awareness about environmental issues. These campaigns can include public seminars, social media initiatives, and art installations that highlight topics such as plastic pollution and the importance of biodiversity.

Parent and Community Involvement: Schools encourage parents and community members to join their sustainability efforts. Workshops and seminars for parents on sustainable living, community garden projects, and open days where the public can learn about the school’s green initiatives help extend the impact of these programs.

Challenges and Future Directions

While the progress in greening Chennai’s international schools is commendable, challenges remain. Financial constraints, the need for ongoing staff training, and balancing academic pressures with sustainability goals are significant hurdles. However, the commitment of these schools to continuous improvement and innovation is promising.

Funding and Resources: Sustainable initiatives often require significant upfront investment. Schools are exploring various funding avenues, including grants, donations, and partnerships with corporate entities focused on sustainability.

Professional Development: Ensuring that teachers and staff are well-versed in sustainability practices is crucial. Schools are investing in professional development programs that equip educators with the knowledge and skills to effectively teach and model sustainable behaviors.

Scaling Up: Expanding successful programs to reach more students and integrating sustainability more deeply into the educational experience remains a priority. Schools are looking to scale up initiatives like zero-waste campaigns and energy audits across all grade levels and school functions.

Conclusion

Chennai’s international schools are playing a pivotal role in promoting sustainability, setting an example for educational institutions worldwide. By integrating green practices into their curricula, infrastructure, and community engagements, these schools are not only reducing their environmental impact but also preparing a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens. The commitment to sustainability in education seen in Chennai is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with dedication and innovation, schools can indeed make a significant difference in the fight against climate change. ChennaiTop10 offered top-notch and comprehensive guide for choosing the top 10 international schools in chennai category.

[ashu-digiroads-01]

Empowering Women: The Integral Role in Shrimp Farming - A Case Study in Asia-Pacific

Introduction:

Shrimp farming is a vital sector within the Asia-Pacific region, driving economic growth and providing a significant source of livelihood for many communities. While the industry is often associated with male-dominated labor, the role of women in shrimp farming is profound and often overlooked. In this blog, we delve into the essential contributions of women in shrimp farming, exploring their impact on the industry and socioeconomic development. Through a case study approach, we'll uncover the dynamics within the Asia-Pacific shrimp market and shed light on the indispensable role played by women.

The Asia-Pacific Shrimp Market:

The Asia-Pacific region is a powerhouse in the global shrimp market, accounting for a substantial share of production and consumption. Countries like India, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Bangladesh are major players in shrimp farming, with aquaculture emerging as a key driver of economic growth. The demand for shrimp continues to rise, driven by factors such as population growth, changing dietary habits, and increasing awareness of the health benefits of seafood.

Despite its economic significance, the shrimp farming industry faces various challenges, including environmental sustainability, disease outbreaks, and market volatility. Amidst these challenges, the role of women in shrimp farming emerges as a crucial factor in driving resilience and sustainability within the sector.

The Empowerment of Women in Shrimp Farming:

Women play multifaceted roles across different stages of shrimp farming, from hatchery operations to processing and marketing. In many cases, women are actively involved in traditional tasks such as pond preparation, feeding, and harvesting. However, their contributions extend beyond these labor-intensive activities.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to empower women in shrimp farming, not only as a matter of gender equality but also as a strategy for enhancing productivity and sustainability. Empowering women in the sector involves providing access to education, training, financial resources, and decision-making opportunities.

Case Study: The Role of Women in Shrimp Farming in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is one of the leading shrimp-producing countries in the Asia-Pacific region, with a significant portion of its population engaged in the industry. In many shrimp farming communities in Bangladesh, women play a central role in various aspects of production and management.

In coastal areas like Khulna and Satkhira, women are actively involved in activities such as pond preparation, shrimp seed collection, and sorting. Moreover, women often take the lead in household-level shrimp farming, managing small-scale ponds and ensuring the integration of shrimp farming with other livelihood activities such as poultry rearing and vegetable cultivation.

Furthermore, initiatives aimed at empowering women in shrimp farming have gained traction in Bangladesh. Organizations like the World Bank and local NGOs have implemented projects focused on providing training and resources to women shrimp farmers, enhancing their technical knowledge, financial literacy, and access to markets.

The Impact of Women's Participation:

The involvement of women in shrimp farming has far-reaching impacts on both the industry and the broader community. Firstly, women's participation contributes to household income and food security, particularly in rural areas where shrimp farming is a primary source of livelihood.

Secondly, women often bring unique perspectives and insights to shrimp farming practices, contributing to innovation and adaptation in response to challenges such as climate change and disease outbreaks. Their involvement in decision-making processes at the household and community levels can lead to more sustainable and inclusive development outcomes.

Moreover, empowering women in shrimp farming can have positive spill-over effects on other sectors, such as education and healthcare. Increased income and empowerment of women often result in higher investment in children's education and improved access to healthcare services for the entire family.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the role of women in shrimp farming within the Asia-Pacific region is indispensable for the industry's sustainability and socioeconomic development. By recognizing and empowering women as key stakeholders in the shrimp value chain, stakeholders can harness their potential to drive innovation, enhance productivity, and promote inclusive growth. As the demand for shrimp continues to grow, it is imperative to invest in initiatives that foster gender equality and empower women in shrimp farming, ultimately leading to a more resilient and sustainable industry.

[kirame90]

Best wingmen ever

Spy and Medic being BBFs and each others' wingmen. Only one of them got laid xD

You can check it out on my charity Patreon where all the pledges go to good causes each month :)

The charity of August 2024 is WildAid

WildAid inspires change and empowers the world to protect wildlife and vital habitats from critical threats including illegal wildlife trafficking, climate change, and illegal fishing. WildAid delivers impact at scale in two distinct ways: 1) creating innovative communications campaigns that inspire millions of people to protect endangered wildlife and reduce climate impacts, and 2) strengthening effective ocean enforcement of priority marine areas including marine protected areas, coastal fisheries, coral reefs, and blue carbon habitats with government, NGO, and community partners in 16 countries around the globe.

Read more about their programs here

[hardynwa]

Ecotourism: Lekki Conservation Center play host to LASG officials

The Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC) has played hosts to different high-level delegations from different arms and agencies of the Lagos State Government on inspection tours of it facilities at the 78 hectares forest reserve and wetland that seats at the heart of the Lekki Peninsula. The Director-General of the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), Dr Joseph Onoja, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday. The LCC is owned and managed by NCF, the foremost environmental and sustainability NGO in Nigeria. Onoja said that the LCC on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, received the first delegation from the Lagos State Government made up of the Special Assistant (SA) to the Governor on Tourism, Hon Idris Aregbe; Director General of Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola; Deputy Director of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture, Mr Aminu Omosun; officials of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, and the Lagos State Safety Commission were part of the delegation. He said that the delegation was received and conducted on a three-hour tour of the facility by himsel (D-G) in the company of other senior management staff of the Foundation. According to him. the inspection and assessment tour started from the LCC gate, through the carpark, through the boardwalk, through the 401m long-canopy walkway (the longest canopy walkway in Africa and second longest in the world), to the family park, to the tree house, and to the boardroom for briefing. He said that the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Hon Aregbe, while addressing the NCF/LCC team, expressed his pleasure at the level of maintenance culture, the prompt and swift response to safety issues, and having the canopy walkway accident-free for 9 years. He however highlighted some NEW safety priority areas and other places that require repairs and reinforcement and charged NCF to properly fix them before the Centre is reopened. The second inspection visit was on Saturday, January 27, 2024, by a team from the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture led by Mr Frank Legunsen, Deputy Director, Research. They came on a follow up inspection of the repair and maintenance work on the facilities in the LCC. On Wednesday, January 30, 2024, a team from the Lagos State Safety Commission led by Dr Ehi Iden, a Senior Consultant of the Safety Commission came to LCC for a comprehensive inspection to thoroughly assess and examine the ongoing maintenance and repairs on the facilities, especially the boardwalk and the canopy walkway. This marked the third inspection visit by the Safety Commission within two weeks. On the same day, a high-powered delegation of the Lagos State House of Assembly, led by Hon. Bonu Solomon, Chairman, House Committee on Tourism, Arts & Culture paid a working visit to the Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC). The purpose of the visit was to further assess the situation and ongoing maintenance efforts at the Centre. He was in the company of Hon Sylvester Ogunkelu, Chairman, House Committee on Physical Planning; Hon Jubril Abdulkareem, Chairman, House Committee on Home Affairs; Hon Gbolahan Ogunleye, Chairman, House Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, and Hon Desmond Elliot, representing Surulere Constituency 1. They were also received by the DG of NCF, Dr. Joseph Onoja, in company of the Director of Business Development and Communications, Mr Uchenna Achunine and the Project Manager of LCC, Ms. Bose Kosemani. Immediately after welcoming them, the DG made a very revealing presentation on the devastating effect and impact of the coastal erosion along the Alfa Beach in Lekki Lagos before leading the delegation into the reserve. The Lawmakers were then conducted on a tour of the facilities (especially the boardwalk and the canopy walkway) to inspect and assess the level of maintenance and repair works going on at the Centre. Hon. Solomon, Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, Arts, and Culture expressed his satisfaction with what he observed during the tour. These visits are part of the Lagos State Government’s response to the viral video released on January 21, 2024, that shows a broken metal brace on the canopy walkway at the Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC). In his briefing to the government officials that have visited the Centre, Dr Joseph Onoja said: “It is with utmost sense of responsibility that we state that the incident did not fall on our blind spot. According to him, this incident happened on 16th December and in line with our response protocol, the team of technicians swung into action immediately, closed the canopy walkway to tourists and repaired it that day, in less than 30 minutes. Our team of technicians were part of the team that constructed the canopy walkway. They are well trained and have the requisite knowledge to operate and maintain the facility”. According to Onoja, “LCC plays host to tonnes of visitors, and the facility is not immune from expected wear and tear. Yet, NCF has maintained an accident-free reputation on Africa's longest canopy walk since the official opening of the facility in 2015. This is due to the diligence of expert technicians and maintenance staff as well as other relevant stakeholders, including our vigilant visitors. In keeping to LCC’s safety protocol of maintaining its facilities periodically especially after festive seasons like the yuletide season, the Centre was officially closed for routine maintenance since the 16th of January 2024 with a plan to reopen on 1st February 2024. This planned re-opening is suspended until the 20th of February after securing approval from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture and Lagos State Safety Commission. Read the full article

[arthropooda]

The cryosphere, which refers to the frozen parts of the planet, currently comprises almost 10% of the Earth’s surface. But as rising temperatures from human-caused emissions melt ice caps, glaciers and sea ice, it has become a percentage in decline.

“In the last two years we have lost a gigantic part of the Antarctic Sea Ice,” said Antje Boetius the director of German polar research hub, and co-Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board of the summit.

“All parts of the cryosphere, in the last three years, have exceeded the predicted range of change last forecast by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),” she said.

It’s a loss that has potential impacts for billions of people around the world in myriad ways.

Currently at least 1.9 billion people are estimated to depend on fresh water from snow and glacier melt that is carried downstream for drinking and agricultural irrigation. As glaciers melt due to warmer temperatures, they initially release more water, but eventually supplies dwindle.

Changes in the cryosphere can alter atmospheric circulation patterns, leading to extreme snow and rainfall, which in turn can cause flash floods and glacial lake outbursts. In Pakistan, unprecedented flooding as a result of extreme monsoon rains and melting glaciers killed more than 1,700 people last summer.

More than 2 million people lost their homes and the total damage was estimated at over $15 billion (€14 billion) according to the World Bank.

Equally, as ice melts, sea levels in certain regions rise.

According to a study published in the scientific journal, Nature, the homes of up to 410 million people living in coastal areas and on low-lying islands could be affected by an increasing frequency of flooding resulting from rising seas by 2100.

Hopes for the Polar Summit in Paris

The first ever summit devoted to melting ice sheets aims to bring together researchers and scientists from over 40 glacial and polar nations to share their findings with other experts and political leaders from countries “present in the Arctic, Antarctic and glacial worlds.”

Boetius hopes the Paris meeting, which comes just before the 28th UN climate conference (COP28), will serve as a platform to convince politicians to speed up their efforts to reach climate neutrality and “absolutely engage with biodiversity goals.” She says the loss of Antarctic sea ice has already prevented breeding in some penguin colonies.

Other species are also at risk of habitat loss due to melting ice. 

The extinction of the world’s mountain glaciers

“The best outcome of the summit would be for the heads of state present to make a clear statement and communicate the urgency of absolutely committing to the Paris climate goals,” Boetius said. 

The central aim of the Paris Agreement, a legally binding international treaty on climate change signed by 195 parties, is to keep global temperatures well below 2 degrees Celsius, and pursue efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels.

Boetius is also calling for agreement on greater scientific research “to beat the pace of crysopheric change,” thereby allowing countries and communities to be better prepared in the face of glacier collapse and unpredictable snowfall.

“Even well-adapted countries like Norway have lost people time and again,” she said. “There is no scaled-up risk monitoring, risk assessment and risk warning for people.”

Citing international cooperation on tsunami early-warning systems in Indonesia, Boetius said a similar approach could be used to predict extreme precipitation, that could save lives and protect against property damage.

Pressure to reduce emissions

Ahead of the summit, NGOs published a six-page letter urging leaders of participating countries to accelerate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, implement biodiversity frameworks and strengthen protection and conservation in polar regions and high mountains.

The letter emphasized the need for transparent monitoring efforts and the involvement of the international community to raise awareness of glacier conservation. 

“There’s a lot of excitement about opening up the Arctic to shipping, to resource extraction, to all kinds of development,” said Jan Dusik, senior lead of the Arctic Governance Program with conservation organization WWF.

 “This summit will hopefully help to create more protected areas and make sure we don’t get into adventures like deep-sea mining,” he said. 

He said the establishment of a network of marine and terrestrial protected areas in both the Arctic and Antarctic, as well as in high mountains, must be based on the best available science and knowledge from Indigenous communities.