UK Witnesses Hottest June Since Recordkeeping Began
The United Kingdom witnessed its hottest June since recordkeeping began 139 years ago, said the country's Met Office, on July 3, 2023.
The British weather agency also noted that the UK, as well as England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, surpassed their respective warmest June in a series which dates back to 1884 some by a significant margin.
The records were broken in 72 of 97 areas in the UK from where temperature data is collected, reported the Met Office. Additionally, the mid-month heat, last month (June), was 15.8 degree Celsius which is also 2.5 degree Celsius higher than average.
Jul 03, 2023
Zoological Survey of India celebrates 108th ZSI Day with Special Focus on 'Mission Life'
Union Minister for Environment & Forest and Climate Change and Labour and Employment Bhupender Yadav said we must all do everything to protect Nature and the Gifts it bestows upon us. The Minister inaugurated a three-day celebration programme of the 108th Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) Day with Special Focus on 'Mission Life' in Kolkota .
Addressing the gathering Mr. Yadav congratulated ZSI for completing 108 glorious years dedicated to the service of our faunal diversity. The Minister categorically pointed out that we must protect the Indian faunal diversity to protect ourselves as climate change has busted the myth that humans are superior to nature.
The Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey said that ZSI should focus on the research and conservation of important wetlands of Gangetic plains of India as 'Sarovar Mitra', by initiating a programme for citizen scientists for better data dissemination and conservation awareness.
Jun 29, 2023
India's First Hydrogen-powered Train to Run from Jind district, Haryana
In a significant step towards embracing sustainable transportation, India is poised to launch its first-ever hydrogen-powered train. Hydrogen trains, which rely on fuel cells to convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity, offer a clean and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel trains. This groundbreaking initiative marks a promising stride in India's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat pollution.
The first hydrogen fuel-powered train in India is scheduled to operate along the Jind-Sonipat route. This strategic choice for the inaugural route highlights the commitment of Indian authorities to transform regional transport networks with sustainable alternatives. By launching the hydrogen train in this corridor, India aims to demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of hydrogen technology in a real-world setting.
Hydrogen trains offer numerous environmental benefits compared to traditional diesel locomotives. Unlike their counterparts, hydrogen trains do not emit harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide, or particulate matter. By eliminating these hazardous emissions, hydrogen trains play a crucial role in curbing air pollution, mitigating climate change, and enhancing the overall quality of the environment.
Jun 26, 2023
Antarctic 'Landfast' Ice Likely to Reduce by End of Century
Antarctica's 'landfast' ice, the stationary sea ice forming around and remaining attached to the coastline or among grounded icebergs, is likely to reduce by the end of this century, in its season length, thickness and extent, according to a new review.
A critical breeding habitat for emperor penguins and essential for their survival, landfast ice provides a key substrate for early-season primary production fuelling coastal marine food cycles.
Blue Pansy Declared As Official Butterfly of J&K
The rich biodiversity of Jammu and Kashmir received a significant boost with the official declaration of the Blue Pansy (Junonia Orithya) as the region's official butterfly. The announcement, made by Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary to the Government for the Department of Forest, Ecology, and Environment, marked a crucial step towards preserving and protecting the natural heritage of this picturesque region.
The Blue Pansy, known for its vibrant blue hues, is found in various parts of Southeast Asian countries, Australia, and Africa. With its territorial nature and stunning appearance, this butterfly captivates both enthusiasts and experts. The species is further distinguished by its remarkable adaptability, resulting in 26 local subspecies across its range.
This official recognition not only signifies the unique charm of the Blue Pansy but also emphasizes the interconnectedness of species and the delicate balance of the environment. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility to conserve and protect the region's natural heritage for future generations.
Jun 21, 2023
Himalayan Glaciers on Track to Lose up to 75% of Ice by 2100
Glaciers in Asia's Hindu Kush Himalaya could lose up to 75% of their volume by century's end due to global warming, causing both dangerous flooding and water shortages for the 240 million people who live in the mountainous region, according to a new report.
A team of international scientists found that ice loss in the region, home to the famous peaks of Everest and K2, is speeding up. During the 2010s, the glaciers shed ice as much as 65% faster than they had in the preceding decade, according to the assessment by the Kathmandu-based International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), an intergovernmental scientific authority on the region.