Snowy owl gains global protection under CMS agreement
The snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus) recently received international protection under the UN’s CMS Convention on Migratory Species. The designation underscores concerns about Arctic habitats and climate change-driven population declines. The species, known for its white plumage and wide Arctic range, faces threats from habitat disruption and prey fluctuations. Conservation groups welcome the move as a step toward coordinated protection across migratory routes. Scientists will monitor populations and coordinate cross-border initiatives to safeguard wintering grounds and breeding sites, ensuring long-term survival in changing ecological conditions.
Snowy owl protected under CMS agreement.
Arctic habitat and climate change impacts cited as threats.
Conservation requires cross-border coordination.
Monitoring and protection of breeding and wintering sites emphasized.
Apr 02, 2026
Varkala Included in UN 20 Cities Towards Zero Waste Initiative
Varkala, a coastal town in Kerala, has been selected for the inaugural 20 Cities Towards Zero Waste initiative. The programme, led by the UN Secretary‑General’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste with support from UN‑Habitat and UNEP, recognises cities adopting innovative waste‑reduction strategies and circular economy models. The initiative aims to showcase leadership in urban waste management and encourage knowledge sharing to accelerate zero‑waste practices globally. It emphasises resource efficiency, sustainable urban systems, and collaboration among cities. The recognition highlights India’s growing emphasis on sustainable development and municipal stewardship amid rapid urbanisation.
Varkala named in the UN’s 20 Cities Towards Zero Waste initiative.
Initiative led by UN SG’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste; supported by UNEP and UN‑Habitat.
Aims to promote waste reduction, resource efficiency, and circular economy models.
Seeks global knowledge sharing among participating cities.
Highlights India’s focus on sustainable urban development.
Mar 29, 2026
Amrabad Tiger Reserve relocation plan balances conservation with tribal welfare
Telangana government announces rehabilitation and relocation of tribal families residing inside the Amrabad Tiger Reserve. The plan seeks to balance wildlife conservation with socio-economic development for indigenous communities. Officials emphasise reducing human-wildlife conflicts while improving living standards and livelihoods. Amrabad Tiger Reserve lies in the Nallamala hills of Telangana and forms a key part of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve landscape. The relocation is part of a broader ecosystem management strategy that incorporates tribal welfare alongside biodiversity protection, aiming to maintain ecological integrity of the reserve while supporting sustainable community life.
Telangana begins rehabilitation of tribal families in Amrabad Tiger Reserve.
Plan links biodiversity conservation with tribal welfare and livelihoods.
Amrabad is in the Nallamala hills within the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam corridor.
Efforts focus on reducing human-wildlife conflict.
Relocation is part of integrated protected-area management.
Mar 27, 2026
Loni overtakes Delhi as world's most polluted city in IQAir report
A global air quality study by IQAir ranks Loni, near Ghaziabad, as the world's most polluted city in the latest annual report. Loni recorded an annual PM2.5 concentration of 112.5 µg/m³, around 22 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended limit. The finding underscores a growing pollution crisis in India’s National Capital Region and highlights ongoing health risks for residents. Experts call for urgent policy action, stronger emissions controls, and expanded monitoring. PM2.5 particles are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
IQAir World Air Quality Report lists Loni as the most polluted city globally.
Loni PM2.5 annual average: 112.5 µg/m³; ~22x WHO guideline.
Delhi-NCR faces ongoing severe air pollution challenges.
Health risks include respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Call for stronger policy action and better monitoring.
Mar 25, 2026
World Air Quality Report 2025 ranks Pakistan top; India sixth
The World Air Quality Report 2025 by IQAir ranks Pakistan as the most polluted country globally, followed by Bangladesh and Tajikistan, while India sits sixth. The study covers 198 countries and highlights ongoing health risks linked to air pollution. Top polluted nations include Pakistan, Bangladesh, Tajikistan, Chad and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In contrast, the United States and the United Kingdom rank around 120th and 110th, indicating comparatively better air quality. The report underscores the continuing need for policy action, urban planning and clean energy to reduce emissions and protect public health.
Source: IQAir World Air Quality Report 2025
Rankings: Pakistan 1st, India 6th among 198 countries
Top five polluted: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Tajikistan, Chad, DRC
Public health implication: higher pollution exposure
Policy takeaway: strengthen emissions reduction and urban planning
+91-85588-96644
