US launches P1-B biodiversity project in PH
MANILA, Aug 12 (Mabuhay) — The United States government announced Tuesday a five-year biodiversity project worth PHP1.1 billion or around USD22 million to combat environmental crimes and help the country sustainably manage its natural resources. The Sustainable Interventions for Biodiversity, Oceans, and Landscapes (SIBOL) project, to be implemented by RTI International, is funded by the […]
Gatchalian urges transparency in study of nuclear energy
MANILA, July 31 (Mabuhay) — Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday urged the inter-agency committee assigned to study the possible use of nuclear energy to proceed with utmost transparency to the public, saying that nuclear power is a ‘risky’ business. On Wednesday, President Rodrigo Duterte formed the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee to study the possibility […]
DA confirms bird flu in Pampanga egg farm
MANILA, July 29 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Agriculture through the Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) on Wednesday confirmed the detection of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain, specifically A(H5N6), in a poultry layer or egg-producing farm in San Luis, Pampanga. Using the “one health approach,” the DA-BAI — in tandem with the DA […]
Mt. Bulusan shows signs of potential eruption — Phivolcs
LEGAZPI CITY, July 24 (Mabuhay) — The series of tremors that have been rocking Mt. Bulusan in Sorsogon and the bulging at its edifice are apparent signs that the volcano’s state of restlessness is rising. April Dominguiano, resident volcanologist of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) in the province, in an interview on […]
DENR promotes plant-based diet to fight climate change
MANILA, July 13 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Saturday urged Filipinos to help fight climate change by switching to plant-based diet, which has been shown to reduce the ecological footprint of human food consumption. In a press release, the DENR, through its Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), has launched a […]
Bulusan alert level remains ‘normal’ despite volcanic activities
MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) — Bulusan Volcano is still under normal behavior despite volcanic activities observed in the last 24 hours, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) director Renato Solidum Jr. said Sunday. Solidum said seismicity, ground deformation and sulfur dioxide are within background levels, and it has only been in the past two […]
Kanlaon Volcano’s quakes show no sign yet of magma rising — Solidum
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Recent earthquakes in Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island do not indicate that magma is rising from beneath its edifice to the main crater, the head of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said. PHIVOLCS Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary Renato Solidum Jr. said the recent earthquakes were recorded only at the base […]
PH industrialization possible under Paris Accord — senator
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines does not have to turn its back on the Paris Agreement on Climate Change to pursue development, Sen. Loren Legarda said Monday. Legarda was responding to President Duterte’s earlier statement that he would not honor the pact, a treaty for which the previous administration vigorously campaigned, as it might inhibit […]
Duterte has prerogative not to honor climate change pact: Drilon
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte has the power not to honor the international agreement on reducing carbon emissions that the previous administration had ratified, outgoing Senate President Franklin Drilon said Tuesday. Drilon, a Liberal Party stalwart, said Duterte is well within his right not to honor the Paris Agreement on climate change because he […]
Many everyday common chemicals are endangering child brain development says new report
A new report published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives is calling for more attention to be paid to the growing evidence that exposure to many everyday common chemicals are causing harm to children’s brain development. Dozens of scientists, health practitioners and children’s health advocates have expressed their concern in the paper that these chemicals are disrupting […]
Many Eligible For Prop. 47 Relief Still Need to Apply
Viji Sundaram OAKLAND, Calif. – California’s Prop. 47 allows many individuals to change certain felonies into misdemeanors on their criminal records – but less than a quarter of those eligible have submitted their requests, and the window of opportunity could expire next year. Eighteen months into Prop. 47’s enactment, the state has received some 211,000 […]
Group finds ‘high concentrations’ of cancer-causing chemical in school supplies
MANILA, May 24 (Mabuhay) – An environment watchdog on Tuesday unveiled a list of school supplies that tested positive for toxic phthalates, a cancer-causing chemical. The EcoWaste Coalition collected samples from retail outlets in Divisoria, Quiapo and Cubao, which the group submitted to testing firm SGS Philippines. The retrieved samples were made from polyvinyl chloride […]
Bright light can affect metabolism and insulin resistance
New research has found further evidence to support the beneficial effects of sunlight on health, finding that exposure to bright light could affect your metabolism and aid weight loss. The recent study out of Northwestern University in the US, builds on the university’s previous research into the effect of light on metabolism and weight loss. In their […]
SCE launches Charge Ready Electric Vehicle Charging Pilot Program
Hundreds of stations to be added for area employees, customers, residents and students ROSEMEAD, Calif., May 16, 2016 — Southern California Edison’s Charge Ready program will bring representatives of local businesses and other organizations together on Wednesday in Irwindale to learn how they can take part in the pilot program that will add as many as 1,500 […]
Trucking firm owner pleads guilty to dumping 11,000 gallons of waste soap into San Gabriel River
LOS ANGELES – A man who ran a trucking company in Sante Fe Springs has pled guilty to dumping 11,000 gallons of waste water and soap into a tributary of the San Gabriel River in Santa Fe Springs, California. David Lee Flury, the 61 year old owner and operator of the Flury Industries, Inc., a waste-hauling […]
Residents continue saving water efforts in state
SACRAMENTO – Californians sharpened their water saving efforts in March, conserving 24.3 percent compared to the amount used in March 2013 – double February’s savings and evidence that residents and businesses remain concerned about the persistent drought now in its fifth year. Statewide cumulative savings from June 2015 to March 2016 totaled 23.9 percent compared […]
Drought-stricken Zamboanga get water supply from Red Cross
MANILA (PNA) – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) continues to provide water resources in drought-affected areas in Zamboanga City through its water production site and water distribution using its water tankers. As of April 22, PRC has distributed 716,950 liters of water from the water production site located in Abong Abong, Upper Pasonanca and through […]
Five natural superstars for green cleaning
With Earth Day in the spotlight April 22, you might be looking for a greener way to keep your home clean. As well as reducing exposure to synthetic chemical components, DIY products are great money-savers. To get started making your own cleaning products, stock up on these five key ingredients: white vinegar, household soap, bicarbonate […]
‘Pista’y Dayat’ to kick off April 22 with beach party
LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 12 (PNA) – People attending the annual Pista’y Dayat (sea festival) of the province of Pangasinan will be welcomed through a beach party when this year’s revelry starts on April 22 at the Capitol beachfront here. Dubbed as “I Love Pangasinan” beach rave concert/party, the kickoff concert at night will be preceded […]
Commission asks next President to take bold steps to combat climate change
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) wants those running for office in the May elections, especially presidential aspirants, to include in their agenda steps to combat climate change and its far-reaching effects on food security, health, livelihood, and poverty. Vice chairperson of the CCC, Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman, said on Saturday that environmental […]
Give Mother Earth a break, switch off power for one hour, says Climate Change Commission
MANILA, Mar 18 (Mabuhay) — Even Mother Earth needs some time off. Climate Change Commission Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman made the statement as he appealed to the country to observe on Saturday (March 19) between 8:30 pm and 9:30 pm the annual Earth Hour awareness campaign celebrated across the globe. “Nature has been working hard […]
Obamas to headline South by Southwest festival
US President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama were announced Wednesday as headliners of South by Southwest, the celebrated showcase of cutting-edge technology and music. Obama will be the first sitting president to appear at the closely watched annual conference in Austin, Texas, famous for providing early exposure to platforms such as Twitter, Foursquare […]
Californians save 1.1-M acre-feet of water
Residents urged to stay focused on conservation SACRAMENTO – For the first time since June, California just missed Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr.’s 25 percent water conservation mandate in January, as urban water suppliers reported a cumulative savings of 24.8 percent for the eight months since mandatory conservation began. With more than 1.1 million acre-feet […]
DiCaprio wins best actor Oscar for ‘The Revenant’
Hollywood A-lister Leonardo DiCaprio finally bagged Oscars gold on Sunday for his grueling star turn in “The Revenant,” 22 years after his first Academy Award nomination. DiCaprio edged out Bryan Cranston (“Trumbo”), Matt Damon (“The Martian”), Michael Fassbender (“Steve Jobs”) and Eddie Redmayne (“The Danish Girl”) to take the best actor statuette. DiCaprio won a […]
Detection of gravitational waves would open new window on universe
By Jean-Louis Santini Washington, United States | AFP | − The first-ever detection of gravitational waves, which scientists could announce Thursday, would open a new window on the universe and its most violent phenomena. Scientists will hold a press conference Thursday to discuss the latest in their hunt for these waves, whose existence Albert Einstein predicted in his theory […]
CARE launches California Council on Carpet Recycling
18-member advisory group to give voice to diverse stakeholders Sacramento, CA – The Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE) has announced the formation of the California Council on Carpet Recycling (Carpet Council), an 18-member advisory group, selected to provide guidance to CARE on California’s carpet recycling efforts. The Council represents diverse stakeholders from across the state […]
Glendale Water and Power ranked among most reliable utilities
GLENDALE, California – PA Consulting Group recently ranked Glendale Water and Power (GWP) as one of the most reliable utilities in the Nation. In their System Reliability, Restoration, and Response Report (SR3), PA Consulting Group evaluated outages for 100 publicly-owned utilities (POUs) and 136 investor owned utilities (IOUs) nationwide, taking into account system outage duration, […]
New York, Washington bask in warm winter weather records
New York, United States | AFP | Shorts instead of scarves: New York City and the Washington area shattered or matched warm weather records Sunday for December 13, less than two weeks before the usually chilly Christmas holiday. In New York City, some people headed out in light summer clothes to revel in midday temperatures in Central Park […]
‘Nona’ kills man, leaves trail of destruction in Northern Samar
TACLOBAN CITY (Mabuhay) – Typhoon Nona left Northern Samar with at least one dead, after it unleashed its wrath on Monday that caused widespread power outages and communication network paralysis. The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) identified the casualty as Pascual Ancente Jr., 31, of Allen Northern Samar. The victim died due […]
Urgent aid needed to fight ‘super’ El Nino: Oxfam
Sydney, Australia | AFP – Droughts, erratic rains and frosts brought by a super-charged El Nino are severely impacting the Pacific, with Papua New Guinea worst hit, aid group Oxfam said in a report Monday. Calling for an urgent up-scaling in relief to save lives, the charity said 4.7 million people faced hunger, poverty and disease in the […]
Algae toxin may erase sea lion memory: study
(San Francisco-AFP) – A toxin in algae may be erasing the memory of sea lions, which wash ashore by the hundreds each year off the coast of California, disoriented and suffering seizures, scientists said Monday. Known as domoic acid, the substance is produced naturally by marine algae, but can harm sea lions’ ability to navigate […]
Don’t fall for utility bill scams this Holiday Season
With more than 16,000 SCE customers victimized since January 2014, the utility recently partnered with local law enforcement and AARP By Caroline Aoyagi-Stom, Southern California Edison@SCE_CarolineA When Jinza Teriyaki restaurant owner John Lee, 40, answered the phone at his business six months ago, the suspicious caller identified himself as a Southern CaliforniaEdison representative and asked for immediate payment or […]
Joshua Tree National Park to offer free admission
WASHINGTON – The National Park Service turns 100 years old in 2016 and wants everyone to celebrate! All national parks, including Joshua Tree National Park will waive entrance fees on 16 special days in 2016. The 16 entrance fee-free days for 2016 will be: January 18 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day April 16-24 – National Park Week August […]
World’s top nature photos to be projected onto St Peter’s
(Vatican City-AFP) – Images by some of the world’s greatest environmental photographers will be projected onto Saint Peter’s Basilica next week in solidarity with the climate change talks in Paris, the Vatican said Friday. From Brazilian Sebastiao Salgado to France’s Yann Arthus Bertrand and Britain’s Steve McCurry, photographers with a passion for the natural world […]
Britain’s Prince Charles frets about future of French cheese
(Paris-AFP) – Britain’s Prince Charles said Monday he feared for the very existence of traditional French cheeses as he received a prize in Paris for his long-term commitment to organic farming. Having spoken earlier at the opening of the key UN climate talks outside Paris, the heir to the throne was awarded the Francois Rabelais […]
Global warming: What if we do nothing?
Le Bourget, France | AFP | – If mankind fails to curtail global warming, we will have to deal with fallout ranging from massive refugee crises and submerged cities to scorching heatwaves and drought, scientists say. Starting Monday, 195 nations are huddled in Paris to negotiate a climate rescue pact to rein in the […]
Thousands march on climate change in Manila, Brisbane
Manila, Philippines | AFP | Saturday 11/28/2015 – Thousands turned out for climate change marches in Manila and Brisbane Saturday, part of a weekend of action across the globe to demand results from next week’s historic Paris summit. Religious clergy, students and activists marched through the Philippine capital calling for curbs on emissions to mute […]
Safety deserves a place at the Thanksgiving table
By Paul Netter, Southern California Edison Keep an eye on what you fry … or grill … or broil. And never leave stovetop cooking unattended. This is true all year but especially on Thanksgiving Day, which has three times more home fires than any other day largely because of unattended stovetop cooking, according to the National Fire […]
High winds disrupt power throughout Southern California
High winds sweeping down from the north caused power outages Monday in communities across Southern California. As if 1:30 p.m., Southern California Edison was managing about 500 storm-related incidents with more than 5,400 customers affected by the wind. SCE work crews have begun restoring electric service to customers without power as a result of the high winds. Areas impacted […]
Climate change is good news for English wine
(Plumpton, United Kingdom-AFP) – While climate change menaces vineyards in southern Europe, English winemakers are raising a toast to warming weather as it improves their wines and has helped revive an ancient tradition. “Climate change is benefitting us a lot,” said Chris Foss, head of the Wine Department at Plumpton College, the first to offer […]
Kendall Jenner to star in Summer 2016 Woodies campaign
(Relaxnews) – Kendall Jenner is already seeing her diary filling up for next year, having secured a Woodies sunglasses campaign in downtown LA for summer 2016. The US model will star in a billboard campaign for the eco-friendly brand, which specializes in bamboo wood sunglasses and watches. Jenner first worked with the brand back when […]
El Nino covers arid Atacama desert in flowers
(Copiapó, Chile-AFP) – Here’s a softer side to the disruptive weather phenomenon known as El Nino: an enormous blanket of colorful flowers has carpeted Chile’s Atacama desert, the most arid in the world. The cyclical warming of the central Pacific may be causing droughts and floods in various parts of the world, but in the […]
West Nile Virus Weekly Update
Deadly West Nile Virus spreading in SoCal? The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) continues to identify West Nile virus activity in Los Angeles County. Sixteen mosquito samples, four American crow, and 12 chickens tested positive this week. One mosquito sample collected from the city of Norwalk represents the first confirmation of WNV […]
Off-duty lineman answers the (wake up) call
SCE employee’s late-night heroics earn praise as he helps first responders after Visalia car accident By Paul Netter, Southern California Edison Matt Duma wasn’t dressed to impress, but he left quite the impression anyway. Pajamas, slippers and all. The Southern California Edison transmission line foreman’s quick thinking played a pivotal role in a car-hit-utility-pole accident late Monday in Visalia. […]
U.S. EPA honors 2015 green power leaders in California
Apple, Intel among those cited SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced its annual Green Power Leadership Awards to seven businesses across California. The firms were among 25 businesses and organizations across 13 states recognized for their achievements in advancing the nation’s renewable energy market and reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute […]
U.S. EPA announces availability of $7 million to replace or retrofit old school buses
SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is announcing the availability of approximately $7 million in funding for rebates to public and private school bus fleet owners for the replacement and retrofit of older school buses. This is the third rebate program offered under the Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) to fund cleaner school buses. […]
State firefighters lose their own homes as they fight fires in other communities
They voice no regret at putting service to others at the expense of their own property Sacramento – CAL FIRE Local 2881, representing the 6,500 firefighters of CAL FIRE, is making emergency donations to the families of eight firefighters who have lost their homes in the past several days. “We are giving our firefighters some […]
5 ways to stay calm this fall
(Relaxnews) – You’re back from vacation and the holiday season is fast approaching. We’re giving you the scoop on how to stay calm between busy work schedules, running errands and looking after children. 1. Smile anyway Believe it or not, flashing a smile could keep you calm and cool, even if nobody’s around to see […]
McDonald’s to fully transition to cage-free eggs for all restaurants in the U.S. and Canada
McDonald’s USA and Canada to source 100 percent cage-free eggs within 10 years (OAK BROOK, Ill.) – To meet consumers’ changing expectations and preferences, McDonald’s announced that it will fully transition to cage-free eggs for its nearly 16,000 restaurants in the U.S. and Canada over the next 10 years. “Our customers are increasingly interested in knowing more […]
Viral video shows why it takes 6 months to build sandwich from scratch
(Relaxnews) – It took Andy George six months and $1,500 to make a single chicken sandwich. Because he made it from scratch. And when George, US-based host of the YouTube series “How to Make Everything” uses the term “scratch,” he’s not just talking about baking bread from flour purchased off the grocery store shelf, and […]
Glendale to start issuing citations for water waste
GLENDALE, California – Glendale Water & Power will start issuing citations for repeat water wasters. In an effort to continue to meet its 20% water conservation goal set by the State, Glendale Water & Power is informing customers that if repeated violations of the Mandatory Water Conservation Ordinance are not corrected, then citations ranging from […]
City of Glendale prepares for El Niño
Glendale, CA – September is Emergency Preparedness Month, and a great time to start planning for the changes winter may bring. As Southern California prepares for El Niño, the City of Glendale has initiated regular planning meetings with the Fire, Police, Public Works and Water & Power to prepare for the heavy rains. In the near future, critical […]
Follow President Barack Obama on Instagram as he takes selfies on Alaskan tour
(Relaxnews) – President Barack Obama has taken over the White House Instagram account, taking photos and selfies of his Alaskan tour. And aside from a stray finger blocking the frame of a selfie taken with survivalist and reality show host Bear Grylls, the photos aren’t half bad. “Hey everyone, it’s Barack,” he wrote on his […]
US President Obama to appear on ‘Bear Grylls’ episode
(Relaxnews) – Barack Obama is to feature on a special episode of US TV show “Running Wild with Bear Grylls” set to air this year. EW reports that Obama will meet Grylls in Alaska to observe the effects of climate change, later meeting up with the reality TV star in the Alaskan Wilderness to receive a […]
Gene study confirms low Vitamin D, multiple sclerosis link
(Miami, United States-AFP) – A major genetic study Tuesday confirmed a link between low vitamin D and a higher risk of multiple sclerosis, a finding which experts say could lead to better treatment and prevention. Previous observational studies have found an association between a person’s level of vitamin D, which comes from sunlight and from […]
Zoos: 5 star animals to photograph on your holidays
(Relaxnews) – Two years after giving birth for the first time, the Smithsonian National Zoo’s female panda made headlines last weekend by giving birth to two more offspring. This is great news for the panda world as conception in captivity remains rather rare. Barely a few days old and already stars in their own right, […]
8 million hybrid cars sold by pioneer Toyota
(Relaxnews) – Japanese car manufacturer Toyota has announced having sold more than 8 million hybrid vehicles around the world. The announcement comes 20 years after having presented its first hybrid technology concept-car. Toyota introduced its first concept, Prius, back in the fall of 1995 during the Tokyo Motor Show. The first prototype had difficulty going […]
Obama declares wildfire emergency in Washington state
Los Angeles, United States | AFP | – President Barack Obama declared an emergency Friday for wildfire-ravaged Washington state, as Australia and New Zealand sent firefighters to help US crews struggling to contain deadly blazes across America’s drought-stricken West. Obama’s declaration releases federal funds to help in relief efforts in the northwestern state, where several […]
Fifteen US states try to block Obama clean power plan
Washington, United States | AFP | – Fifteen US states have petitioned a federal court to block new rules by President Barack Obama’s administration to encourage clean power and cut harmful carbon emissions from power plants. The emergency petition to postpone the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA)deadline was filed Thursday by attorneys general in Alabama, […]
Excessive heat watch issued for Southern California
With temperatures reaching triple digits, SCE reminds customers to stay as cool and safe as possible By Caroline Aoyagi-Stom Southern California Edison – It’s about to get a lot hotter in Southern California. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch for the area starting Friday. Relief from the triple-digit temperatures is not expected until early next […]
SCE to tether manhole covers in Long Beach, issue bill credits
Customers who were without power for more than 24 hours will get a $100 credit By Mary Ann Milbourn Southern California Edison (SCE) will provide a $100 bill credit to those who were without power for more than 24 hours during the latest outage in downtown Long Beach, and crews have begun tethering more than 300 manhole […]
SCE crews continue vault inspections to avoid more explosions
Southern California Edison Southern California Edison (SCE) crews continue to inspect hundreds of underground vaults as they work to restore power Friday to the remaining 260 Long Beach customers affected by Thursday’s outage. SCE crews will attempt to restore power to some customers between 6-10 p.m. tonight. Due to the extent of the damage, some areas may still be without power overnight. If additional issues […]
Storm surges amped by rain increase US flood risk: study
By Marlowe Hood Paris, France (AFP) – Sea storm surges amplified by heavy rain are a greater flood threat to US coastal cities than previously understood, and are occurring more frequently according to a study published Monday. The number of such “compound” events “has increased significantly over the past century,” said a paper in […]
Safety urged as heat wave, thunderstorms approach
By Paul Netter, Southern California Edison With the National Weather Service predicting triple-digit temperatures and thunderstorms in some areas of the region beginning Wednesday, Southern California Edison (SCE) urges its customers to stay safe while staying cool. SCE has also called a Save Power Day for Wednesday. Customers participating in the conservation program can earn up to $100 in bill credits […]
Weekend rainstorms soak SoCal
By Newsroom Staff As of 10 a.m. Monday, there were 3,731 Southern California Edison (SCE) customers without power territory wide, which spans north to the Sierras, south to Orange County, East to the Arizona border and west to Santa Barbara. SCE crews responded where needed. Safety remains SCE’s highest priority. Customers are reminded if they see a downed power line […]
SCE crews restore power in Long Beach
By SCE Newsroom Staff Southern California Edison (SCE) crews have restored service to all customers affected by the Long Beach outage. Some customers who had been on SCE-provided generators have had their power transferred back from the generator to the SCE system. Additional outages may occur as a result of the current rain storm. If you are […]
Patti Smith and Thom Yorke among acts announced at Pathway to Paris
(Relaxnews) – Pathway to Paris will host an evening of music and talks on December 4 at Paris’s Le Trianon, in the lead up to the UN Climate Change Conference, according to its website. The event, which comes on the heels of Pathway to Paris’s 2014 concert at Le Poisson Rouge in New York, will feature […]
Red Cross opens evacuation center in response to Calgrove Fire
Red Cross workers ask residents to listen to local authorities and to be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice SANTA CLARITA, CA (June 25, 2015 – 1630) — Local American Red Cross disaster volunteers are responding to the Calgrove Fire near Interstate 5 in Santa Clarita. The team of Red Cross volunteers have opened […]
lokai launches bracelet to benefit World Wildlife Fund
(Relaxnews) – Global lifestyle brand lokai launched Monday a new bracelet called ‘wildlokai’ to support the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). For every ‘wildlokai’ bracelet sold from June 15 through July 28, lokai will donate one dollar to the charity, with a minimum contribution of $250,000, according to a press release. The unisex bracelets are designed […]
Mediterranean diet at risk as globalisation bites
(Rome, Italy-AFP) – Eating a MEDITERRANEAN DIET has long been a byword for healthy living, but the very people who coined it are straying from sun-kissed fruits and legumes and their waistlines are paying the price. The region is undergoing a “nutrition transition” from traditional, sustainable foods towards more meat and dairy products, a new report by […]
Google maps oceans for World Oceans Day
(Relaxnews) – Google Earth has mapped more than 40 underwater locations around the world including diving spots in Bali, the Bahamas and Great Barrier Reef in time for World Oceans Day. With just a few clicks, users can take a virtual plunge and swim alongside sea turtles in the Solomon Islands, humpback whales in the […]
Milan Expo to be the hub of World Environment Day 2015
(Relaxnews) – World Environment Day (WED), one of the United Nations’ primary vehicles for spreading awareness around the globe to keep our planet in shape, is fast upon us, and this year the Milan Expo will host a flurry of activities in collaboration with the occasion on June 5. This year’s WED theme is “Seven […]
New pollution alert closes California beaches
Los Angeles, United States (AFP) – Workers scrambled to clean oil pollution along a series of California beaches near Los Angeles on Thursday, barely a week after a huge oil spill further up the coast. An unknown tar-like substance began washing ashore from El Segundo Beach south to Redondo Beach on Wednesday, the Los Angeles […]
Bad weather casts doubt on Solar Impulse 2 Pacific flight
(Shanghai-AFP) – Solar Impulse 2 was in a holding pattern over the Sea of Japan on Monday as organisers warned that bad weather in the days ahead could block the aircraft’s ambitious bid to cross the Pacific Ocean. The seventh leg of the round-the-world journey was set to take pilot Andre Borschberg, 62, on a […]
World already reaping benefits from ozone treaty: study
(Paris-AFP) – The UN treaty to protect the ozone layer has prevented a likely surge in skin cancer in Australia, New Zealand and northern Europe, a study published on Tuesday said. If the 1987 Montreal Protocol had never been signed, the ozone hole over Antarctica would have grown in size by 40 percent by 2013, […]
Climate change a top US security issue: Obama
By Jerome Cartillier Washington, United States (AFP) – US President Barack Obama warned in a speech on Wednesday that the threat from global warming poses a national risk rivaling that of terrorism, and should be seen as a top security priority. In a commencement address for new graduates of the US Coast Guard Academy, Obama […]
White House gets busy to save the bees
(Washington-AFP) – The White House unveiled Tuesday a plan to reverse an alarming decline in the populations of bees and other pollinators that play a critical role in agriculture and the environment. Honey bee pollination alone adds $15 billion in value to US crops each year, wrote John Holdren, one of President Barack Obama’s main […]
Out on a limb: Octopus inspires medical robotics
(AFP) – Scientists in Italy said Thursday they had devised a prototype arm inspired by the octopus that may one day lead to minimally-invasive robotic surgery. Like the octopus’ limb, the slender remote-controlled gadget can extend and bend and be either soft or rigid, the goal being to enable surgery in the abdomen and other […]
Green is the new black: sustainable beauty gets a boost in New York
(Relaxnews) – Green is beautiful, if the buzz surrounding the upcoming Sustainable Cosmetics Summit in New York is anything to go by. As the beauty industry makes a conscious effort to smarten up its act regarding sustainable ingredients, the sixth edition of the annual summit will examine everything from environmentally friendly products to marketing techniques […]
LA celebrates TAP Water Day to highlight benefits of city’s clean drinking water
LOS ANGELES – City and federal officials have announced the first annual Tap Water Day LA at the Balboa Sports Center in Encino, celebrating Los Angeles’ clean, reliable drinking water. Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Barbara Romero, Chief Sustainability Office Matt Petersen, and Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) Director of Water Quality Albert Gastelum were […]
Apple announces Chinese forest management project
(Relaxnews) – Cupertino’s mobile tech company Apple is looking to bolster the production of renewable resources through partnership with the World Wildlife Fund. A multi-year forestland project with the WWF is to protect up to 1 million acres that provide fiber for pulp, paper and wood products. “Forests, like energy, can be renewable resources,” said […]
Thousands of LA Students ‘Unite for the Ocean’ in this Year’s Kids Ocean Day
Some students to visit the ocean for first time on May 14, 2015 Kids Ocean Day is the culmination of a year-round school assembly program by the Malibu Foundation for Environmental Education to teach school kids about how litter flows from our neighborhoods to the ocean, thereby killing marine life and polluting food resources. To enhance the lesson, more than […]
Nepal’s rich cultural heritage devastated by quake
(AFP) – Sujan Shrestha says it breaks his heart to look at the piles of rubble that are all that remain of the ancient Nepalese temples where he has worshipped all his life. The 28-year-old shopkeeper grew up in a house just off Patan Durbar Square, a spectacular World Heritage site in the quake-hit Kathmandu […]
Chipotle burritos in the US are now free of GMOs
(Relaxnews) – Chipotle has become the first major restaurant chain in the US to serve foods that are free of genetically modified ingredients. After becoming the first national restaurant company to disclose the GMO ingredients in its menu two years ago, the premium burrito purveyor announced Monday that the transition to GMO-free foods in restaurants […]
Google Doodle and animal quiz marks Earth Day 2015
(Relaxnews) – Are you a honey bee, a giant squid or a komodo dragon? On the occasion of Earth Day 2015, Google is lending a helping hand in figuring out which animal best captures your personality. First celebrated in the United States in 1970, Earth Day has grown into an annual global event to help spread environmental […]
Recycled plastic bottles could be your next coat: North Face
(Relaxnews) – If you buy a new coat from The North Face in 2016, it will likely be made from recycled content if, indeed, they meet the lofty goal they announced Tuesday in which they aim to use 100 percent recycled polyester by then. Polyester makes up nearly 80 percent of the fabric they use, […]
Can’t pay? Won’t pay! — putting a price on water
(Daegu, South Korea-AFP) – It’s arguably our most vital and precious natural resource, and one that is growing dangerously scarce from China to California, but no matter how much we value water, we’re not that keen on paying for it. The issue of pricing water is extremely sensitive — socially, politically, economically — but it’s […]
Glendale Wins Resource Efficiency Award from the California Municipal Utilities Association
Utility wins “Large Utility Water Program” category for its WaterSmart Program Glendale, CA – Glendale Water and Power (GWP) has won the California Municipal Utilities Association (CMUA) Resource Efficiency Award in the Large Utility Water Program category for its water-use efficiency program in partnership with WaterSmart Software. WaterSmart’s technology marries behavioral science and data science to […]
World’s largest tulip festival and Japan foothills among top spots for spring blooms
(Relaxnews) – It’s a yearly miracle, when parts of the Earth awaken from their wintry slumber and erupt in a kaleidoscope of color. And some parts of the Earth are even more beautiful than others. Here’s a roundup of some of the best places to witness the visual feast, according to Cheapflights.com. Bluebonnet fields, Texas, USA […]
Lights out in Australia as Earth Hour kicks off
(SYDNEY-AFP) – The Sydney Harbour Bridge and the sails on the nearby Opera House went dark Saturday, as lights on landmarks around Australia were switched off for the global climate change awareness campaign Earth Hour. Millions are expected to take part around the world in the annual event organised by conservation group WWF, with hundreds […]
Earth Hour: What is the carbon footprint of an email?
(Paris-AFP) – Sending a text message or email, eating an apple or watching TV — each of these activities has a different carbon footprint. People around the world are getting ready to mark Earth Hour by turning out the lights on Saturday, but a long list of seemingly harmless everyday actions also contribute to emissions […]
How to do your part in saving the ocean
(Relaxnews) – A group of 20 top chefs from around the world including Grant Achatz, Ferran Adria, Daniel Humm and Massimo Bottura have lent their star power to a global initiative that aims to save the oceans and boost food security. Oceana’s ‘Save the Oceans: Feed the Planet’ campaign launched officially out of San Sebastian […]
Philippine Cinderellas beat poverty, seize world stage
(Manila-AFP) – As a child she waded in muddy Philippine rice paddies, now teenager Janicel Lubina struts down runways for the country’s top designers and is hoping to be crowned among the world’s most beautiful women. Lubina is a star recruit in one of Manila’s beauty pageant boot camps, where shy, lanky teenage girls from […]
Solar plane revs up for historic round-the-world flight
(Abu Dhabi-AFP) – A solar powered plane aims to fly into history on Monday, taking off from Abu Dhabi on a round-the-world odyssey to promote alternative energy. The flight of Solar Impulse 2, whose hoped-for Saturday takeoff had to be put off due to strong winds, will cap 13 years of research and testing by […]
L.A.’s January water use continues to decline
LADWP customers urged to conserve more as drought persists LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) today released its water conservation numbers for January 2015 showing a 22% reduction since January 2007 – the year that the city’s water conservation ordinance was implemented, and a 15.8% reduction in water use […]
LA County to host used oil and filter recycling event in Rowland Heights
LA County Public Works will host a free used motor oil and oil filter recycling event on Saturday, February 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at O’Reilly Auto Parts, located at 19705 Colima Road, Suite 8, Rowland Heights, 91748. When used oil is illegally dumped into storm drains, it pollutes local water bodies and […]
Eiffel Tower goes green with wind power
(Relaxnews) – As part of the renovation of the Parisian monument’s first floor, two wind turbines have been installed at vertical axes, announced the company that operates the Eiffel Tower this Thursday, February 26. The Eiffel Tower’s two new wind turbines, each measuring seven meters tall and three meters across, are located on the second […]
Valentine’s Day: The only safe metallic balloon is a secure one
When not tied to a weight or kept indoors, the colorful gifts can drift away and into power lines and equipment, causing outages and potential injuries By Paul Netter It usually happens with a loud bang followed instantly by a disintegrated balloon. For the uninitiated, that’s often the sound made when a metallic balloon drifts […]
Going organic really does reduce pesticide exposure: study
(Relaxnews) – A recent study at Boise State University in Idaho says that when it comes to pesticide exposure, organic foods live up to the health hype that’s been surrounding them for decades. In their study, which was published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, the research team worked with dietary data from 4,500 people from six […]
MoMA PS1 unveils the winner of its Young Architects Program 2015
(Relaxnews) – MoMA PS1 has named Andrés Jaque/Office for Political Innovation as the winner of its annual Young Architects Program (YAP) in New York. The winning project, “Cosmo”, is a movable artifact made from customized irrigation components, which purifies water and exposes the hidden urbanism of pipes we live by. The assemblage of ecosystems is engineered to filter and […]
LA County to host used oil and filter recycling event in Hawaiian Gardens
LA County Public Works will host a free used motor oil and oil filter recycling event on January 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m, at the Hawaiian Gardens AutoZone, located at 21418 Norwalk Blvd. When used oil is illegally dumped into storm drains, it pollutes local water bodies and contaminates sources of clean drinking […]
LA County to host used oil and filter recycling event in Lawndale
LA County Public Works will host a free used motor oil and oil filter recycling event on December 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m, at the Lawndale O’Reilly Auto Parts, located at 15122 ½ Hawthorne Blvd. When used oil is illegally dumped into stormdrains, it pollutes local water bodies and contaminates sources of clean drinking water. In […]
SCE warns customers to be aware of utility bill scam this Holiday season
ROSEMEAD, Calif. – Southern California Edison (SCE) warns customers to stay vigilant this holiday season as impostors, claiming to represent the utility, continue a telephone scam demanding immediate payment for allegedly past-due electricity bills. The hustle and bustle of the season makes customers especially vulnerable as telephone bill scammers increase calls threatening to disconnect electrical service unless immediate payment is made on […]
Cyclone, hurricane, typhoon: Different names, same phenomenon
Paris, France | AFP | – They may have different names according to the region they hit, but typhoons, hurricanes and cyclones are all violent tropical storms that can generate 10 times as much energy as the Hiroshima atomic bomb. Typhoon is the Asian term for a low-pressure system that is called a hurricane […]
New York on track to building the world’s first underground park
(Relaxnews) – New York City, famed for being a concrete jungle, could become the world’s first city to build an underground park complete with grass, trees, park benches, and sunlight. Inspired by the city’s High Line, an elevated rail line that was transformed into a public park in Manhattan’s West Side, a team of engineers […]
Americans urged to stop wasting food
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – In the run-up to Thanksgiving, a holiday to celebrate bountiful harvests, Americans are being urged to stop wasting food so much. Some 34 million pounds (15.4 million kilograms) of food is thrown away in the United States every year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said Friday. That represents 21 percent of all food […]
The real treat should be a safe Halloween season
ROSEMEAD, Calif., – The ghoulish decorations and costumes are a sure bet to scare up some fun this Halloween season, but much more frightening are the electrical and fire hazards associated with them. With this in mind, Southern California Edison (SCE) reminds its customers that a few simple precautions, especially with candles, decorations and costumes, can help ensure […]
Schwarzenegger goes from Terminator to climate ‘Innovator’ Schwarzenegger goes from Terminator to climate ‘Innovator’
PARIS (AFP) – Hollywood legend Arnold Schwarzenegger has gone from being the “Terminator” to the “Innovator”, France’s Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said Saturday, praising him for his work to prevent climate change. The actor turned politician was presiding over a climate change conference of the world’s regions in Paris on Friday and Saturday in the […]
Microsoft debuts new app for sharing photos across ecosystems
(Relaxnews) – Microsoft has created a new app that allows anyone to share photos with their friends, whether they own iPhones, Windows Phones or prefer Android. The app in question is called Xim and is the latest idea to come from Microsoft Research’s Fuse Labs. What makes it so newsworthy is that it’s a tiny attempt to […]
Gov. Brown approves ban on plastic bags
Heal the Bay led legislative fight to tackle plastic pollution, create green jobs SANTA MONICA, CA – Sending a powerful message nationally that the plastic pollution plague can be abated, Gov. Jerry Brown today signed landmark legislation that bans the distribution of single-use plastic shopping bags at grocery stores, convenience stores and pharmacies statewide. SB 270, a bill […]
Solar-powered family car Stella rides California coast
(SAN FRANCISCO-AFP) – A solar-powered family car completed its drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco fueled by good vibes and pure California sunshine. And after turning the heads of gobsmacked onlookers during its journey up California’s scenic Pacific Coast Highway, the creators of “Stella” are dreaming of a day when their futuristic vehicle is […]
LADWP encourages customers to conserve energy as temps soar
Utility offers energy saving tips to stay cool while protecting the grid LOS ANGELES – As temperatures in Los Angeles rise to triple digits today through Wednesday, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) encourages its customers to save energy where possible between now and 8 p.m.and to give appliances the afternoon off. […]
Designs revealed for Washington DC’s first elevated park
(Relaxnews) – Four shortlisted designs for Washington DC’s first elevated parkway have been revealed, and the competition is asking the public for feedback. “11th Street Bridge Park” will be built on the foundations of an old freeway bridge spanning the Anacostia River. Pritzker Prize winner Rem Koolhaas’s firm OMA is amongst the shortlisted firms, for […]
California to be first US state to ban plastic bags
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – California governor Jerry Brown said late Thursday he will approve a ban on single-use plastic bags, in what would make the western US state the first to outlaw them. Lawmakers passed the bill late last Friday, and it now only requires Brown’s signature to pass into law. The governor must do […]
Anne, Kuya Kim are new ‘disaster ambassadors’
“It’s Showtime” hosts Anne Curtis and Kim Atienza are the new “disaster ambassadors” of government weather monitoring arm DOST-Project NOAH. In an Instagram post, the Kapamilya actress, one of the country’s most influential celebrities, said she and Atienza met with Project NOAH executive director Dr. Mahar Lagmay on Wednesday morning. She went on to promote […]
Vodka is spiked with cognac in latest spirit hybrid launch
(Relaxnews) – Spirits are increasingly going hybrid, with unexpected liquors being mixed together to form two-for-one bottles like Vodquila and cognac-spiked vodka. Grey Goose Vodka is the latest to jump on the industry-wide trend, with the launch of Grey Goose VX in the US, vodka spiked with a cognac made exclusively for the brand that […]
NASA launches crowdsourcing project to identify photos of cities taken from space
(Relaxnews) – NASA has launched a crowdsourcing project in an appeal to the public to help identify some of its 1.8 million archive photos. Hundreds of thousands of images taken from the International Space Station of cities on the planet have been added to a public gallery as part of “The Gateway to Astronaut Photography […]
Pollution, whales prompt shipping slow-down in SoCal
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – Concerns about pollution and endangered whales in southern California have prompted six global shipping companies to try slower speeds in exchange for cash incentives, environmental groups said. The companies agreed to slow down – from typical speeds of 14-16 knots down to 12 knots or less – in exchange for $2,500 […]
Use your goldfish’s waste to grow tomatoes with the EcoFarm
(Relaxnews) – As urban farming becomes increasingly popular, a new fish-tank-cum-herb-garden could be the next big thing in home-grown produce. EcoFarm is a fish tank that uses the aquaponics technique to use waste as a natural fertilizer to grow plants. Essentially a fish tank topped with an herb garden, the design features a tube that extracts […]
Supper club salvages foods destined for the dump
(Relaxnews) – In line with the growing movement to reduce waste and rethink the value of food worldwide, a supper club in Brooklyn is hosting monthly dinners created from old, ugly, overripe fruits and vegetables that would have otherwise been destined for the dumpster. The Salvage Supperclub is the latest dining experience created to underscore […]
Domain ending .organic latest address to enter digital marketplace
(Relaxnews) – After .bar, .rest and .wine, the internet is about to get another food-related domain that’s aimed at gathering website sellers and producers of organic products under the same umbrella address. Created to help users quickly identify business with clear domain endings, the online trend has moved to the organic food movement, with global […]
Will.i.am partners with Coca-Cola for 3D printer with a difference
(Relaxnews) – The Black Eyed Peas frontman and self-styled tech entrepreneur is promoting a new compact 3D printer from 3D Systems that is as focused on recycling as it is on creativity. That’s because filament (i.e., 3D ‘ink’) for the Ekocycle Cube printer is made up from, among other things, discarded Coke bottles. Each cartridge contains material […]
Adventures in dining: Grasshopper burgers, scorpion lollipops
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Though slightly uncertain, Erin Kolski pronounced the unusual fare on her plate — a burger made from ground-up grasshoppers — to be surprisingly tasty. “It’s a little crunchy. It tastes fine,” Kolski said, sounding somewhat surprised as she favorably appraised the dish at Washington’s Occidental Restaurant, a popular establishment a stone’s throw from […]
US plans 30% cuts in power carbon emissions
By Shaun Tandon, Jerome Cartillier WASHINGTON (AFP) – The United States on Monday proposed ordering cuts of up to 30 percent in carbon emissions from power plants in President Barack Obama’s most ambitious action yet on climate change. The Environmental Protection Agency gave states the leeway to choose their own plans but said that they […]
Major meteor shower could delight N. America May 23-24
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Skywatchers in the United States and Canada could see a one-of-a-kind meteor shower late Friday night and early Saturday, astronomers say. Never before have astronomers witnessed the debris trail behind this particular comet, and a sea of white lights could dash across the night sky for hours. Or not. “The problem we are […]
WantedDesign New York: the highlights
(Relaxnews) – The fourth edition of the WantedDesign show is set to hit New York later this week, offering an international design perspective through a series of interactive installations, pop-up stores, conferences and workshops. We take a look at the highlights of this particular NYCxDesign event. The Conversation Series A three-day platform and dialogue supported by contemporary […]
Papier-mâché pandas to take on Hong Kong
(Relaxnews) – A troupe of 1,600 papier-mâché pandas is set to descend upon Hong Kong this June, as part of an ongoing campaign by the WWF. ‘1600 Pandas World Tour in Hong Kong: Creativity Meets Conservation’ will see the pandas grace the city’s top 10 landmarks as part of the government’s ‘conserving central’ initiative. The 1,600 […]
App to sell restaurant leftovers to help reduce food waste
(Relaxnews) – As the dialogue on the shameful amount of food waste grows louder, US developers are in the midst of creating an innovative new app that will allow retailers and restaurants to sell their leftovers and overstocked products to consumers. Currently being tested in New York, PareUp aims to divert perfectly edible foods from landfills — […]
Kids who play outside are more spiritual and creative: study
(Relaxnews) – Turn off the TV, hide the game consoles and send your kids to play in the great outdoors if you want to raise more thoughtful, fulfilled and spiritual children, suggest the findings of a small study. Children who spend significant amounts of time playing outside were found to have a stronger sense of […]
The ‘dirtiest’ and cleanest foods in the US produce aisle: report
(Relaxnews) – For the fourth year in a row, apples have topped the list of most pesticide-laden produce in the US. In the Environmental Working Group’s annual Dirty Dozen list, 99 percent of apple samples tested positive for at least one pesticide residue. The guide ranks 48 popular fruits and vegetables based on an analysis […]
Do you want carrots with that? McDonald’s to go greener and healthier
(Relaxnews) – Expect to see more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and sustainable beef on the menu, says McDonald’s, which released details on its corporate responsibility plans for 2020. By 2016, the mega fast food chain says it will begin purchasing “a portion” of beef from verified sustainable sources. Customers in nine of its top markets […]
How this restaurant produces zero waste
(Relaxnews) – A small Chicago sandwich shop has gained headlines for pulling off an impressive feat for any restaurant: producing zero waste. Over two years, chef owner Justin Vrany’s restaurant Sandwich Me In has produced eight gallons of garbage — the average amount of waste produced by a restaurant every hour, he says. In more […]
The countries most likely to opt for a spiritual or beach holiday
(Relaxnews) – North Americans are intrepid travelers and look for destinations that are ‘off the beaten track,’ while Europeans seek out sun-soaked beach vacations. Those are among some of the key findings in a large-scale TripAdvisor survey that polled 60,000 respondents in 32 markets around the world for the bi-annual TripBarometer, which aims to gauge […]
Make Every Day Earth Day
Tips for being an eco-conscious consumer (Family Features) Whether stopping in for a daily to-go cup of coffee or running your weekly grocery store trip, you likely have many purchases throughout the day. With Earth Day right around the corner, it’s a great time to reflect on your own personal impact on the environment and […]
Are you a green hotel guest?
(Relaxnews) – According to a TripAdvisor survey of 2,100 respondents, here are the top five most common ways US travelers lessen their environmental impact in hotels: 1. An impressive 96 percent of respondents said they do their part by turning off the lights when leaving the room. 2. The second most popular eco-friendly behavior is […]
Earth Day: how to eat sustainably
(Relaxnews) – Earth Day. Like New Year’s, it comes every year on the same day, April 22. For the uninitiated, it’s also the perfect time to begin adopting a few simple resolutions that will help you eat green and healthfully — and drive up industry demand for organic, local and sustainably produced foods. To officially […]
Swiss Air Lines becomes world’s ‘first allergy-friendly’ carrier
(Relaxnews) – In response to the rise of food intolerances and allergies among consumers, Swiss International Air Lines has announced that it’s become the world’s first certified “allergy-friendly” airline. Beginning next month, the carrier says it will begin rolling out new products and services to improve the flying experience for allergy sufferers, ranging from the […]
Starwood bans shark fin soup
(Relaxnews) – Starwood Hotels & Resorts is the latest international hotel chain to ban the controversial shark fin soup across its entire portfolio of brands including Sheraton, Le Meridien, St. Regis and W Hotels. Beginning this July, in a gesture of environmental stewardship, the company will no longer serve the dish that’s considered a delicacy […]
A HyFive for hydrogen power
(Relaxnews) – A new Pan-European scheme will cost £31 million (€38.4 million) and aims to make hydrogen fuel cells a viable alternative to both fossil fuel-powered cars and plug-in electric vehicles in a number of the continent’s leading cities. In total, five major car makers have signed up to the project, which was officially announced […]
New global app lets users ‘report’ energy waste around the world
(Relaxnews) – Does the sight of a light bulb left on in an empty room leave you hopping mad? A new app which lets users ‘report’ energy waste around the world could be just the thing. ‘LightsOut‘ is an app which aims to create a global map of geographical examples of inefficient energy use by […]
Lights off for Earth Hour’s global crowdfunding call
(SINGAPORE-AFP) – Lights went off in thousands of cities and towns across the world on Saturday for the annual Earth Hour campaign, which is aiming to raise money via the Internet for local environmental projects. The Singapore-based campaign by conservation group WWF was boosted by Hollywood star power, with “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” stars Andrew […]
BatteryBox: five years of portable power
(Relaxnews) – The BatteryBox is by no means the only portable back-up power device on the market, but what makes it so clever is that once charged up, it stays charged up and is guaranteed to perform like new for five years. That, and the fact that despite being small enough to fit in the […]
How to have a happy vacation
(Relaxnews) – A new survey has revealed that travelers who plan ahead, make a local connection and venture to countries abroad are more likely to return from a happy vacation. That’s according to the 414 travelers surveyed in a new poll conducted by ‘happiness expert’ Shawn Achor, author of “The Happiness Advantage,” and travel agency […]
Islands to visit now before rising sea levels bury them
(Relaxnews) – They’re jewels of the oceans, small paradisiacal islands and atolls that rise up in the middle of the sea often developed for the pleasure of holidaymakers seeking tropical getaways. But they won’t last long. Hyperbole? Not for the scientists who’ve been sounding the alarm for years on the dangers of rising sea levels; […]
Global landmarks switch off the lights for Earth Hour 2014
(Relaxnews) – Famous buildings and monuments around the world will be plunged into darkness on March 29 to honor the global environmental initiative Earth Hour. In North America, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Empire State Building in New York and the Space Needle in Seattle are just some of the legendary sites which […]
The secret lives of architects: new exhibition announced for Milan design fair
(Relaxnews) – Where do the top architects live? It’s an intriguing question, and one which visitors to this year’s Milan Design Fair Salone del Mobile will also be able to explore, thanks to a new exhibition opening this April. ‘Where Architects Live’, which will run alongside the main design fair, will focus on the personal domestic spaces […]
Indonesia announces world’s biggest manta ray sanctuary
(JAKARTA-AFP) – Indonesia on Friday instituted the world’s biggest manta ray sanctuary covering millions of square kilometres as it seeks to protect the huge winged fish and draw more tourists to the sprawling archipelago. New legislation gives full protection to the creatures across all the waters surrounding Southeast Asia’s biggest country, which for years has […]
Eco group lauds Iglesia ni Cristo for clean walkathon
MANILA (Mabuhay) – An ecological group on Saturday lauded the Iglesia ni Cristo for keeping its charity walk for survivors of super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) clean. The EcoWaste Coalition said it was “delighted” to see the route of the charity walk “devoid of unsightly and filthy trash.” “We commend the organizers and participants for manifesting […]
The Rekindle Candle that (almost) never burns out
(Relaxnews) – Sustainable design is one of the hottest interiors trends right now, but while you might be used to the idea of reupholstering vintage chairs, you may not have considered recycling your… candles. Luckily British artist and designer Benjamin Shine has made it easy to do so, thanks to his witty and stylish creation the Rekindle […]
PHL climate change envoy leads new protest fast
By Karl Malakunas MANILA (AFP) – A Philippine diplomat who went without food for 14 days last year will lead another fast on Saturday in a bid to pressure world leaders over climate change. Naderev “Yeb” Sano, the Philippines’ lead negotiator at United Nations climate talks, drank only tea and water throughout the last meeting […]
California declares drought emergency
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – California’s worst drought in a century is devastating the state’s agriculture and destroying its forestland, which is being consumed by wildfire, Governor Jerry Brown said Friday as he declared a state emergency. The emergency declaration allows California to access federal help to battle the drought, which has left huge swathes of […]
Build it and they will believe, says defiant China tycoon
(CHANGSHA, China-AFP) – A Chinese multi-millionaire who built himself an Egyptian pyramid and a replica of Versailles vows to construct the world’s tallest building in just six months — despite authorities preventing work amid safety concerns. Zhang Yue is worth an estimated 1.1 billion yuan ($180 million) and has grandiose aspirations, the biggest of them […]
General Mills pledges GMO-free Cheerios
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Cheerios will be made without any genetically modified ingredients in the United States, producer General Mills announced, answering growing consumer concerns about the issue. The popular breakfast cereal is already made in Europe without GMO (genetically modified organism) content, and the company said late Thursday that Original Cheerios had only contained a small […]
SkyCycle: London’s futuristic new bike highway?
(Relaxnews) – Fancy cycling along the London skyline? It could soon be an everyday occurrence, following the unveiling of the SkyCycle proposal, a revolutionary network of cycle decks throughout the capital. The proposal comprises over 220 kilometers of traffic-free cycle routes following exisiting suburban rail lines, with each route capable of accommodating up to 12,000 […]
Bluetooth flower pots bring smart tech to gardeners
(Relaxnews) – MEG’s next-generation flower pots, slated to go on sale in 2014, use advanced technology to ensure that houseplants survive and thrive, even when their owners lack a green thumb. The technology behind these innovative flower pots was created by entrepreneurs Raphaëlle Seyfried and Franz Ezin through their start-up MEG (Mind Every Garden). The […]
Ask a designer: how to do chic, eco-friendly Christmas décor
(Relaxnews) – Looking for ideas to make your holiday interior décor festive, chic and also environmentally friendly isn’t always easy. We talk to German industrial designer Sandra Lindner, whose wooden X-mas Tree has become a staple of eco-friendly design, about how best to approach the party season. What was the inspiration behind the design of your X-mas […]
Leonardo DiCaprio to promote electric vehicles through Formula E team
(Relaxnews) – The American actor has partnered with the Monaco-based brand Venturi for the forthcoming international Formula E championship, a race between single-seat cars powered exclusively through electricity. DiCaprio has been a proponent of developing environmentally friendly cars for several years. This new racing team was co-founded by Leonardo DiCaprio and Venturi Automobiles President Gildo […]
Elon Musk: a man on a mission
(Relaxnews) – Whether it be reaching for the stars or changing people’s attitudes to electric cars, in 2013 the South African-born serial entrepreneur and visionary showed he was doing more than anyone in Silicon Valley to demonstrate how technology can revolutionize the way we live our lives. No wonder people are calling him the next […]
Expect increasingly violent cyclones, weather experts warn
By Jean-Louis Pany PARIS (AFP) – Meteorologists have yet to formally link global warming to typhoons like the one that devastated the Philippines, but they expect increasingly extreme weather phenomena due to a rise in ocean temperatures. The trail of death and destruction left in the wake of Super Typhoon Haiyan was at the forefront […]
UN climate talks open amid ‘sobering’ typhoon
By Mary Sibierski WARSAW, November 11, 2013 (AFP) – Nations launched a new round of talks Monday for a 2015 deal to cut Earth-warming greenhouse gas emissions, in the aftermath of a devastating Philippines typhoon the UN’s climate chief labelled “sobering”. Christiana Figueres urged progress at the notoriously fractious talks amid a slew of new […]
Cyclone, hurricane, typhoon: Different names, same phenomenon
PARIS (AFP) – They may have different names according to the region they hit, but typhoons, hurricanes and cyclones are all violent tropical storms that can generate 10 times as much energy as the Hiroshima atomic bomb. The typhoon that devastated the Philippines, wiping out entire towns with a death toll that could soar well […]
Giant mirrors bring winter sun to Norwegian village
(OSLO-AFP) – Residents of a remote village nestled in a steep-sided valley in southern Norway are about to enjoy winter sunlight for the first time ever thanks to giant mirrors. The mountains that surround the village of Rjukan are far from Himalayan, but they are high enough to deprive its 3,500 inhabitants of direct sunlight […]
Mitsubishi bets big on sustainable SUVs
(Relaxnews) – The company will be revealing three new environmentally friendly off-roaders at the Tokyo Motor Show, each of which is a showcase for its sustainable @earth TECHNOLOGY. The biggest of the three concepts on show, the Mitsubishi GC-PHEV is a full-size SUV with a hybrid V6 powertrain and permanent four-wheel drive. As well as a battery, […]
Insects making eco-friendly buzz in Dutch kitchens
(SITTARD, Netherlands-AFP) – Cecile’s latest batch of students watched attentively as she launched into the last step of the dish — swirling grasshoppers around in a frying pan before setting them on the coucous. In their bid to find an environmentally-friendly alternative to meat, Richard, 41, Mariet, 53, and Seppo, 43, are looking to insects. […]
California Agencies Release Draft Action Plan for Water, Ask for Input and Dialogue
California Water Action Plan Provides Roadmap for State Efforts SACRAMENTO – The California Natural Resources Agency, the California Environmental Protection Agency and the California Department of Food and Agriculture today released a detailed draft action plan to help guide state efforts and resources on one of California’s most important resources, water. The California Water Action […]
The 2014 most endangered sites and landmarks in the world: report
(Relaxnews) – An international heritage group has placed 67 sites, monuments and landmarks on its 2014 World Monuments Watch list this year — a list that includes the cultural heritage of the entire country of Syria. According to the World Monuments Fund’s latest report released this week, conflict and escalating violence in war-torn Syria are […]
Don’t let the US shutdown ruin your travel plans with these alternatives
(Relaxnews) – Travel plans in the US thwarted by the government shutdown that has closed down all national parks and public museums? Here’s a list of alternative destinations that may actually help you discover hidden gems traditionally bypassed for the typical tourist hotspots. Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. Alternative: International Spy Museum, National Geographic Museum James Bond […]
SSS fetes pioneer AlkanSSSya partners
The Social Security System (SSS) bestowed the “Bilib Kami Sa’Yo” Special Award to five informal sector groups or “ISGs” that were the first in their respective industries to participate in the AlkanSSSya Program during ceremonies held at the SSS Corporate Headquarters in Quezon City on September 9. Their role as pioneer ISGs helped pave the […]
Eco-friendly champagne cover made with potatoes and paper
(Relaxnews) – After creating an origami-style foldable champagne bucket, Veuve Clicquot has come up with another form of innovative packaging, this time a design made with potatoes and recycled paper that can keep the bottle chilled for up to two hours. Created by French designer Cédric Ragot, the Naturally Clicquot bottle cover is made from […]
Making music makes a nicer kid: study
(Relaxnews) – Making music can make a young child nicer, more willing to help, and better at problem solving, a new study finds. Researchers from the University of West London said that they built on existing 2010 research from German researchers Sebastian Kirschner and Michael Tomasello, who found that making music can significantly improve positive […]
All-new Smart concept heading to Frankfurt
(Relaxnews) – The Fourjoy is yet another offbeat design study from the premium small car brand. This is a Smart concept with a difference. It’s built on the Fourtwo platform yet it has four seats. However, in keeping with the brand’s quirkiness, the Fourjoy has decided to dispense with doors, rear windows and even the […]
L’Enclume named best restaurant in the UK
(Relaxnews) – Chef Simon Rogan’s farm-to-table restaurant L’Enclume set in a medieval village in the bucolic English countryside has been named the best restaurant in the UK. Editors of “The Good Food Guide” gave the restaurant in The Lake District’s Cartmel top honors in the 2014 edition of the restaurant review guide for using fresh, seasonal and […]
Fish leaders are born, not made: study
(PARIS-AFP) – Leadership is an innate quality, said a fish study Wednesday that predicted trouble in animal social groups, also human ones, when natural roles are reversed. Groups tend to perform better with a combination of willing followers and strong leaders, which in most animal species are bolder, more extroverted individuals. But incentives, like higher […]
Ready for a smart shower?
(Relaxnews) – Annoyed that your other half is forever hogging the shower but don’t know how to broach the subject with tact or decorum? Well, help is at hand. The Uji is a showerhead created by Tufts University alums Brett Andler, Sam Woolf and Tyler Wilson that starts to glow red when the user is taking […]
National Science Club Month 2013 – Philippines
Pambansang Kapisanan ng mga Kabataan Samahan ng Agham (Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs), Inc. Something big is making a landfall this September! In celebration of the National Science Club Month in the Philippines, the Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs (PSYSC), the first and largest umbrella science club organization in the Philippines, will be […]
State Convenes Interagency Task Force to Improve Safety at California’s Oil Refineries
SACRAMENTO – Officials from more than a dozen local, state and federal agencies came together today for the first meeting of the newly established Interagency Refinery Task Force, an important step in the State’s plan to improve public and worker safety at and near oil refineries. The Task Force, which will be located within the California […]
The best smartphones for the beach
(Relaxnews) – A selection of handsets that won’t simply survive, but will positively thrive when at the beach. Let’s face it, our smartphones are so much a part of our lives that our palms are beginning to develop phone-shaped calluses in the same way that pen use once led to knobbly fingers. Therefore the thought […]
Canadian park designated world’s largest Dark Sky Preserve
(Relaxnews) – A sprawling park in northern Canada has become the world’s largest Dark Sky Preserve, a designation that protects the area’s nighttime ecology and will allow visitors to continue experiencing the northern lights. Last week, Wood Buffalo National Park which straddles northeastern Alberta and the Northwest Territories, was given the distinction by the Royal […]
Talking at meals may boost your child’s confidence
(Relaxnews) – Sitting down at meals with your children and talking about your day can boost their confidence, a new survey reveals. New research conducted by the UK’s National Literacy Trust finds that mealtime chatter can boost a child’s communication skills and confidence, based on a poll of 35,000 UK children between the ages of […]
Researchers to debut lab-grown beef burger to the world
(Relaxnews) – After years of research and much anticipation, a Dutch scientist will finally unveil his lab-grown, artificial meat to the world, created in a petri dish from the stem cells of a cow. Next week, at a secret location in London, the synthetic meat will be served to a select group of guests in […]
Kitchen appliance lets you grow your own insects for dinner
(Relaxnews) – An Austrian designer has created a table-top insect breeding kitchen appliance that can produce 2.4 kg of larvae protein and serve as an alternative “grow-your-own” source of protein for families. Industrial designer Katharina Unger’s Farm 432 has been getting a lot of media buzz for turning a UN recommendation — “eat insects” — into a […]
Nike unveils hybrid Nike Free Flyknit
(Relaxnews) – In a move to create a shoe that Nike hopes is the closest to a barefoot-like experience on the market, the brand slapped together two of its most innovative technologies into one: the Nike Free Flyknit. By combining the mid-range cushioning and flexibility provided by the Free+ 5.0 midsole and form-fitting “second skin” […]
Climbers flock to Mt. Fuji as season begins
(YAMANAKAKO, Japan-AFP) – Hordes of trekkers flocked to Mount Fuji Monday at the start of a two-month climbing season, after it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in recognition of its status as a symbol of Japan. Hundreds of hikers began their ascent of the 3,776-metre (12,389-feet) peak before dawn in a bid to […]
CalEPA Creates New Environmental Justice Working Group
SACRAMENTO – California Environmental Protection Agency Secretary Matthew Rodriquez today announced the formation of a new agency-wide working group to improve compliance with state environmental laws in California communities most burdened by pollution. The new Environmental Justice Compliance and Enforcement Working Group, part of an ongoing effort to integrate environmental justice considerations into CalEPA’s mission, […]
Philippines first in Asia to destroy ivory tusks
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines began destroying five tonnes of elephant tusks on Friday in a landmark event aimed at shedding its image as one of the world’s worst hotspots for illegal African ivory trading. The backhoe of a bulldozer began crushing hundreds of tusks in a wildlife bureau carpark, as the nation became the […]
Melting ice pulls Norway closer to Asia
(KIRKENES-AFP) – The town of Kirkenes in northernmost Norway used to be further away from Asia than virtually any other European port, but it suddenly seems a lot closer. The reason: Global warming. Melting ice has opened up the Northern Sea Route along Russia’s Arctic coastline, changing international trade patterns in profound ways — even […]
Philippines financial district bans plastic bags
(MANILA-AFP) – The Philippines financial capital banned disposable plastic shopping bags and styrofoam food containers Thursday, as part of escalating efforts across the nation’s capital to curb rubbish blamed for deadly flooding. After a widespread publicity campaign leading up to the ban, Makati city environment protection officers began handing out fines of 5,000 pesos ($115) […]
World cities improving energy efficiency: report
(LONDON-AFP) – Some of the world’s largest cities are improving their energy efficiency, a report said Thursday, while nations struggle to forge a global response to climate change. Cities are taking action to reduce their carbon emissions and better manage their water strategy, said a report by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), which runs a […]
World’s largest all-solar-powered boat shines in NYC
(NEW YORK-AFP) – The world’s largest fully solar-powered boat, “Turanor PlanetSolar,” docked in New York on Tuesday during a mission to study the effects of climate change on the Gulf Stream current. Sponsored in part by the Swiss government, the 35-meter (115-foot) catamaran is crowned with solar panels that retract in port but open like […]
World Tourism Day 2013 asks travelers to reduce water footprint
(Relaxnews) – From wearing water-resistant sunblock to taking a shower instead of a bath, travelers will be reminded to be responsible consumers in the wake of a water scarcity crisis that threatens parts of the world for World Tourism Day. For the 2013 edition of the United Nation’s World Tourism Day, both the tourism industry and […]
Skirt-clad Romanian women promote ‘stylish’ cycling
BUCHAREST-AFP) – More than 1,500 Romanian women in colourful skirts and high heels cycled through the country’s main cities to promote urban biking as a “stylish and fun” way of transport. The event, called SkirtBike, “aims to celebrate the independence and empowerment that cycling can provide to all women and to encourage those who do […]
Solar plane lands in US Midwest after storms
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – The Solar Impulse, a single-person solar-powered aircraft piloted by a Swiss adventurer, landed in St. Louis, Missouri early Tuesday on the third leg of a transcontinental flight after over 21 hours in the air. The organizer’s ground crew rushed out on the tarmac of the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport when the aircraft, which […]
A romantic Italian oasis that inspired literary giants
(NINFA, Italy-AFP) – Rare plants, enchanting ruins and the tinkle of waterfalls: the English-style botanical oasis of Ninfa near Rome is a secret idyll billed as “the world’s most romantic garden”. The exquisite garden dates back to the late 19th century when the aristocratic Caetani family took over lands deserted for centuries including Ninfa, a […]
Hong Kong launches first electric taxis
(Hong Kong-AFP) – Hong Kong saw its first electric taxis hit the streets on Saturday in a step towards reducing the city’s high levels of roadside pollution. The 45 bright red cars were launched by Chinese electric vehicle producer BYD, which is partly backed by US investment titan Warren Buffett. Called the BYD e6, the […]
Havana Bay slowly reclaims historic splendor
(HAVANA-AFP) – Pelicans and their prey are back in Havana Bay in a sign that efforts to clean up the historic and once splendid port of the Cuban capital are paying off. “They disappeared long ago but because of the cleanup the fish have returned — and therefore so have the pelicans,” said fisherman Eduardo […]
Celebrating business and community partnerships: SCE hosts the 8th Annual Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month event
IRWINDALE, Calif., May 3, 2013 — Celebrating business and community partnerships, Southern California Edison (SCE) hosted its eighth annual Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month celebration today, highlighting the company’s partnerships with local business customers and organizations. “SCE takes pride in cultivating relationships with diverse business customers and community organizations on energy conservation, supporting […]
Twitter index: Earth Day, vote Justin Bieber
(Relaxnews) – On Monday, April 22, Twitter users are celebrating Earth Day and encouraging one another to vote for Justin Bieber in the Billboard Milestone Award. April 22 marks the annual environmental celebration that is Earth Day. The event began in the United States back in 1970 and is celebrated in 192 countries across the […]
Southern Californians Bundle Up as Freeze Warnings Issued
Southern California Edison Offers Tips During Cold Spell ROSEMEAD, Calif., Jan. 14, 2013 — As the National Weather Service issued a freeze warning and frost advisory throughout Southern California until tomorrow morning, Southern Californians are doing their best to stay warm during this surprising cold spell. SCE reminds its customers to stay safe when using […]
President Aquino declares State of National Calamity to speed up relief operations and reconstruction of typhoon-damaged areas
MANILA, Dec 8 (Mabuhay) — President Benigno S. Aquino III declared Friday night a State of National Calamity to hasten the rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts after Typhoon Pablo devastated several provinces in Mindanao. Proclamation No. 522, issued by the President, allows local government units to utilize their respective calamity funds for the rescue, relief […]
Aquino orders thorough study of Mindanao devastation
MANILA, Dec 8 (Mabuhay) — President Benigno S. Aquino III ordered the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to investigate the devastation caused by Typhoon Pablo to prevent further loss of lives in the future. The President said during […]
Senate to probe ‘dumping of toxic waste’ in Subic Bay
US Navy contractor accused of dumping hazardous materials in former US base M ANILA, Nov 10 (Mabuhay) – A defense contractor of the US Navy is facing a possible Senate investigation after allegations that one of its vessels had dumped hazardous waste in Subic Bay, the site of a former US naval base that has […]
Air quality index of major cities in North America September 5: San Francisco ‘good’
(Relaxnews) – Below is information on the current background air quality in some of North America’s major cities based on data taken from http://www.airnow.gov recorded at 12:00 pm GMT September 5. City Quality Atlanta (Georgia) [Good] Chicago (Illinois) [Good] Dallas (Texas) [Good] Denver (Colorado) [Good] New Orleans (Louisiana) [Good] New York City (New York) [Good] Miami (Florida) [Good] […]
New owl species discovered in Cebu, Camiguin
Manila, Aug 19, 2012 (AFP) – Scientists and birdwatchers have discovered 10 new owl species in the Philippines, using advanced recording equipment that can distinguish between their hoots, a conservation official said Sunday. Eight of the new species were previously considered sub-species while two are totally new, said Lisa Paguntalan, field director of Philippines […]
Three dead as storm lashes PHL
Manila, July 30, 2012 (AFP) – At least three people were killed and millions were left without power Monday as Tropical Storm Saola turned into a typhoon, bringing heavy rains to large parts of the Philippines, the government said. Manila was one of the worst hit areas and schools across the sprawling capital were suspended, […]
Grand Park is now open in Downtown Los Angeles
By Christian Esteban The new Grand Park, a 12-acre and four-block public park in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, officially opened the first two blocks of the park on July 26, 2012 during a civic dedication ceremony. The event began with opening remarks from Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, who saw the park […]
Japan city seeks funds for dying ‘miracle’ pine
(TOKYO-AFP) – A local government in northern Japan is seeking funds to preserve a so-called “miracle pine” tree that survived last year’s tsunami, officials said Thursday. The city of Rikuzentakata will open a Facebook page on July 5 to ask for donations for the tree — the sole survivor among some 70,000 pines […]
CalRecycle Reminds DIYers to Recycle their Used Motor Oil & Filters Together
SACRAMENTO – A recent survey by California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) revealed a serious gap in awareness among drivers who change their own motor oil. While 95 percent of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) oil changers said they recycle their used motor oil, approximately one-third admitted to dumping their used oil filters in the trash, […]
Philippines goes after sea turtle restaurants
(CEBU, Philippines-AFP) – The Philippines on Monday said it would form a special task force to go after restaurants selling the meat of protected sea turtles. The eight-member team was created after news reports revealed the proliferation of roadside restaurants in the central island of Cebu serving dishes made from the government-protected marine animals. “The […]
New purple crab species found in Philippines
(MANILA-AFP) – Four new species of freshwater crab, bright purple in colour, have been discovered in the biologically diverse but ecologically-threatened Philippines, the man who found them said Saturday. The tiny crustaceans burrow under boulders and roots in streams, feeding on dead plants, fruits, carrion and small animals in the water at night, said Hendrik […]
Two new frog species found in Philippine forests
(MANILA-AFP) – Two new species of frog have been discovered in fast-disappearing forests in the Philippines, boosting hopes for the survival of the country’s rich but threatened wildlife, scientists said Tuesday. The new discoveries are a mottled brown frog with red eyes and a broad yellow stripe running down its back, and a yellow-green one […]
Endangered Philippine raptor bred in captivity
(MANILA-AFP) – A Philippine hawk-eagle feared to be heading for extinction has been bred in captivity for the first time, its breeders said Thursday. Hand-fed with ground quail meat, the chick has swiftly bulked up to 157 grams (0.04 ounces), three times its weight when hatched in an artificial incubator 16 days ago, thePhilippine Eagle Foundation said. Its […]
Meat-eating animals lose taste for sweets: study
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – European and US scientists said Monday that many meat-eating animals appear to lose their ability to taste sweet flavors over time, a finding that suggests diet plays a key role in evolution. Most mammals are believed to possess the ability to taste sweet, savory, bitter, salty, and sour flavors, said researchers at the […]
Water Forum to place spotlight on looming crisis
(MARSEILLE, France-AFP) – A global gathering of policymakers, corporations and specialists unfolds in this southern French city from Monday to ponder the future of water, fast emerging as one of the century’s crunch challenges. Staged every three years, the World Water Forum will look at the darkening shadow of water scarcity but also the opportunities […]
Adventure-seeking bees are a lot like us: study
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Some bees love a good adventure while others prefer to hang out at the hive, and a new analysis of bee brains suggests some of the same chemicals that affect human personality could explain why. Honey bees are known to have a structured society in which different bees serve different tasks — some […]
Strong space weather storm hits Earth
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – The strongest space weather storm in five years struck Earth on Thursday, causing some airlines to reroute their flights, threatening power disruptions and sparking a show of the northern lights. NASA and other agencies warned that the storm had the potential to disrupt global positioning systems, satellites and power grids, and had already […]
Singapore top carbon emitter in Asia-Pacific: WWF
(SINGAPORE-AFP) – Affluent Singapore had the largest carbon footprint per head in the Asia-Pacific in 2010, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) said Monday. The environmental advocacy group said Singapore’s 2010 per capita gross domestic product of more than $40,000 — one of the highest in the region — fuelled exorbitant consumption habits. But the group […]
‘I will if you will’ – Earth Hour dares people to save the planet
(Relaxnews) – On March 31 individuals, businesses and some of the world’s most recognizable landmarks will pull the plug and plunge themselves into darkness for the fifth annualEarth Hour. However in the month leading up to the event, organizers are asking individuals “what are you willing to do to save the planet?” and encouraging people […]
China says most cities fail to meet new air standard
(BEIJING-AFP) – China said Friday that two-thirds of its cities currently fail to meet new air-quality standards introduced this week that are based on the pollutants most harmful to health. Under pressure from a worried Chinese public, the government this week issued revised air-quality targets based on the smallest particulates, which make up much of […]
Ocean acidification may be worst in 300 million years: study
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – High levels of pollution may be turning the planet’s oceans acidic at a faster rate than at any time in the past 300 million years, with unknown consequences for future sea life, researchers said Thursday. The acidification may be worse than during four major mass extinctions in history when natural pulses of carbon […]
Australia’s Barrier Reef to get Google treatment
(SYDNEY-AFP) – Australian scientists mapping the Great Barrier Reef will broadcast their findings in partnership with Google, emulating its “Street View” to spotlight the impact of climate change. The University of Queensland’s Seaview Survey will use custom-designed cameras and diving robots to plumb never-before-seen depths of the reef off Australia’s northeast coast. It is a […]
Conservationists call for huge Antarctic marine reserve
(WELLINGTON-AFP) – A coalition of environment groups called Tuesday for the world’s largest marine reserve to be declared in Antarctica’s Ross Sea to prevent “industrial scale” fishing ruining the pristine ecosystem. The Antarctic Ocean Alliance said waters surrounding the remote frozen continent were facing increased exploitation as fish stocks elsewhere in the world continue to […]
Swiss aim to launch first space cleaner
(GENEVA-AFP) – Swiss scientists announced Wednesday plans to develop a machine that acts almost like a vacuum cleaner to scoop up thousands of abandoned satellite and rocket parts, cleaning up outer space. The Swiss Space Centre at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), a top science university, announced the launch of CleanSpace as the […]
‘Pyramids’ planted to revive Philippine corals
(MANILA-AFP) – Thousands of small “pyramids” are being planted off the Philippines’ famous Boracay resort island in an effort to bring its nearly destroyed coral reefs back to life, an environment group said Thursday. Over 300 of the structures were planted this week off Boracay’s coast and eventually about 5,000 will be placed in the […]
Endangered turtle baby boom in Philippines
(MANILA-AFP) – Globally endangered green turtles are enjoying a baby boom on remote Philippine islands as a three-decade protection programme starts to pay off, environment group Conservation International said Wednesday. The project is a key part of worldwide efforts to rebuild green turtle populations, and could help see the species’ status upgraded from endangered to […]
Philippines, 100 countries back world environment agency
(PARIS-AFP) – More than a hundred countries now support a French proposal to create a “World Environment Organisation” at the upcoming 20th anniversary conference of the Rio Summit, France’s ecology minister said on Tuesday. “More than 100 countries have now associated themselves with the proposal,” Nathalie Kosciusko-Morizet said at a conference in Paris aimed at […]
Shivering S. Koreans battle ‘Big Chill’ in offices
(SEOUL-AFP) – “It’s freezing!” complained chef Byun Sang-Won, jogging on the spot with arms folded and teeth clenched as he tried to keep warm inside the luxury Seoul hotel where he works. “I can’t even imagine working without wearing extra underwear and hot packs because it’s too cold in the kitchen and hallways,” the 26-year-old […]
Global cyber anti-garbage drive aims to muster millions
(TALLINN-AFP) – Cyber-environmentalists said Thursday they aim to mobilise millions of people around the world for a mass waste clean-up, saying they had to step in because governments had failed to do so. Tiina Urm, spokeswoman of the Estonian-piloted “Let’s Do It!” campaign, told AFP that anti-waste activists hoped to see numbers spiral this year […]
Fly parasite turns honey bees into ‘zombies’: study
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – US scientists have discovered that a fly parasite can turn honey bees into confused zombies before killing them, in an advance that could offer new clues to why bee colonies are collapsing. So far, the parasite has only been detected in honey bees in California and South Dakota, American researchers reported in the […]