Leaving tackling air pollution to local authorities is an inadequate response | Letters
The government’s proposal to leave tackling air pollution to local authorities alone is another sign that the Tories are intent on trashing the green agenda (Government passing the buck on air pollution, say campaigners, theguardian.com, 13 September). Air pollution is not only a local issue, it is a national health crisis causing 50,000 early deaths […]
ZSL animal photography prize 2015 – in pictures
A contemplative picture of a shaggy-haired grizzly bear, silhouetted against a mountain-lined horizon has been chosen as the Adult Judges’ Choice in the ZSL animal photography prize 2015. Attracting more than 450 entries from around the world, the winners are selected by a panel of expert judges including ZSL honorary conservation fellow and television presenter […]
Female snake living in captivity without a male companion gives birth – again
For the second time in two years, a female yellow-bellied water snake in Missouri reproduced on her own, a rare occurence called parthenogenesis For the second time in two years, a captive snake in south-east Missouri has given birth without any interaction with a member of the opposite sex. Officials at the Missouri department of […]
We need a cure for plant blindness
Let’s elevate plants from their throwaway status and recognise their vital role in keeping us all alive, argues Robbie Blackhall-Miles Humanity is suffering from an illness the extent of which is not fully known. The impact of this is being felt across the globe. It renders humankind unable to see the plants in their environment […]
Cameron gives top environment policy job to oil man ahead of major climate talks
Environmentalists slam appointment of ex-Schlumberger consultant as energy and environment adviser just months before global climate summit in Paris Environmentalists have criticised a decision to appoint a former consultant to major oil and gas companies as David Cameron’s key adviser on energy and environment policy. Stephen Heidari-Robinson, a little-known consultant from oilfield services company Schlumberger, […]
Seven ways to get water on the climate agenda
How can we keep the issue of global freshwater shortage on policymakers agendas? Our expert panel had these suggestions There is a need for a grassroots movement to strenghten the case for water in the climate debate. This grassroots movement for water exists, but could be stronger. In many countries local NGOs, water committees and […]
How 'big society' beat one Birmingham area's reputation for drugs and crime
Since 1994, a group of Balsall Heath residents have successfully battled drugs, prostitution and unemployment destroying the heart of their community. How? By picketing, rallying and setting up a progressive local forum At first glance, Balsall Heath does not look like the kind of place that would be feted by politicians. Twenty years ago, it […]
Boris Johnson speaks out against government plans to cut solar subsidies
London mayor’s warning of the threat of proposed Tory cuts to jobs and future investment is welcomed by green politicians and industry leaders Boris Johnson has said he is “very concerned” about the government’s proposals to cut subsidies to the fast-growing solar industry. The mayor of London reminded ministers that 10,000 local jobs were dependent […]
Republicans to break rank with party leaders in call for climate change action
At least 10 House Republicans sign on to resolution in mini-rebellion seemingly designed to put pressure on presidential candidates and party leaders Nearly a dozen Republican members of Congress will break ranks with leaders of their party on Thursday, and call for action against climate change. The mini-rebellion a week before the pope visits Congress […]
Food waste cafes and urban orchards: five ways people are building a new economy
Grassroots projects are springing up across the UK to empower local people and build communities A new economy is coming into play. No longer wielded as a weapon to legitimise austerity, this is an economy where the community and the environment, not the corporate shareholder, benefits. Related: Free Money Day: what happens when you give […]