Massive river water transfers lacking scrutiny
Large scale transfers of water from one river basin to another are generally occurring without adequate scrutiny of their economic, environmental and social impacts, according to an analysis released to World Water Week by WWF.
Amazon squatter law fuels deforestation worries
Conservationists worry that further deforestation will follow from Brazil now allowing squatting on Amazon land – regulations that encompass parcels equal to the combined size of Germany and Italy.
More studies needed for Amazon dams
La Paz, Bolivia - An international group of scientists has called for more studies into the impacts of large hydro-energy projects in the Amazon and other tropical regions.
Soy industry adopts environmental safeguards
Elements of the soy industry have agreed to take a milestone step toward improving their production practices, which have led to widespread deforestation, displacement of small-farmers and indigenous peoples, and loss of natural habitats.
Ecotourism could help the Amazon reduce deforestation and handle climate change
Responsible ecotourism in the Amazon tributary of the Aripuana River, could help reduce deforestation and protect one in 10 known species on Earth.
Countdown to Earth Hour as global momentum builds
Geneva, Switzerland - The statue of Christ overlooking Rio de Janeiro will slip suddenly into darkness. So will the Golden Gate bridge, the Eiffel tower and South Africa’s Table Mountain.
Sao Paulo's industry commits to legal wood use to protect Amazon
Wood and construction companies in Sao Paulo -- Brazil’s most industrialised and populous state -- have committed themselves to the use of legal and certified wood in a move which could help preserve the country’s endangered Amazon forests.
East meets West for Earth Hour in over 500 cities
The global call to action on climate change has been answered from east to west as a record 538 cities and towns in 75 countries sign up to turn their lights off at 8.30pm on 28 March for Earth Hour 2009.
Amazon could prosper thanks to emission payments, be lost without
Global payments for ecological services rendered by the Amazon such as the carbon retaining in its forests could go a long way to preserving them, a new study has found.
Earth Hour 2009 setting new records in climate concern
With eight weeks still to go, citizens, businesses and public authorities in 375 cities across 74 countries have already committed to turning off their lights for one hour at 8.30pm on 28 March in a graphic show of support for decisive action on climate change.