In this week’s issue of our environment newsletter, we learn how native plants help boost biodiversity in your garden, get an update on global and federal action on plastic pollution and get tips for making your wardrobe more sustainable. Also: Tips to make your wardrobe more sustainable. Our planet is …
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Humans wiped out a native San Francisco butterfly. Now another species is filling its ‘big blue shoes’
For decades, conservationists have been restoring the biodiversity of San Francisco’s coastal dunes. But a key piece of the puzzle was missing — until now. ‘This is a historic occasion,’ says scientist after dozens of silvery blue butterflies released The Xerces blue butterfly, which serves as both pollinator and prey …
Read More »What are microplastics doing to human health? Scientists work to connect the dots
People unknowingly ingest microplastics from what we eat, drink and breathe. Some scientists fear exposure to microplastics could increase vulnerability to heart disease, cancer and other illnesses. While possible links between microplastics and disease are not definitive, researchers are exploring some concerning hints. Negotiations are underway in Ottawa toward a …
Read More »Prehistoric giant ‘sabre-toothed salmon’ renamed after new discovery
The giant prehistoric ‘sabre-toothed salmon’ has been renamed the ‘spike-toothed’ salmon after scientists uncovered new information about its weird, giant tusks. Fish renamed ‘spike-toothed salmon’ after new skulls reveal real tusk position. The artwork and publicity materials showcasing a giant salmon that lived five million years ago were ready to …
Read More »El Niño is nearing its end. Does that mean global temperatures will cool down in 2024?
La Niña is on its way, but global temperatures are so warm already that some climate scientists say it may not have as much of a a cooling effect this year as in the past. March was the 10th month in a row with record-breaking temperatures. Last year, the planet …
Read More »Predators take big bite out of declining Atlantic mackerel population
Predators ate at least twice as many Atlantic mackerel as commercial fishery landings in the decade leading up to Canada’s region-wide moratorium, according to new research by Canadian and American scientists. DFO ‘had almost no information’ on natural mortality before new study, says lead author. Predators ate at least twice …
Read More »Caribou herds in B.C., Alberta, growing due to wolf culls: study
Fresh research suggests Western Canada’s once-dwindling caribou numbers are finally growing. But the same paper concludes the biggest reason for the rebound is the slaughter of hundreds of wolves, a policy that will likely have to continue for decades. Finding puts wildlife managers in a tough spot, co-author says, as …
Read More »Will climate change mean more mosquitoes in Atlantic Canada? N.S. researchers want to know
Some biologists are predicting climate change could mean the arrival of new insects on Atlantic Canada’s shores. Asian tiger mosquito is spreading across the U.S., Europe and can carry Zika, West Nile viruses. Some biologists are predicting climate change could mean the arrival of new insects on Atlantic Canada’s shores. …
Read More »Nearly 30 cases of eclipse-related eye damage reported in Quebec so far
Quebec optometrists have confirmed 28 cases of eclipse-related eye damage since the solar event on April 8, and health officials say there could be far more. More data needed, not all injuries are permanent, doctor says. Quebec optometrists have confirmed 28 cases of eclipse-related eye damage since the solar event …
Read More »Can we end plastic pollution? Negotiators land in Ottawa this week to work on a global treaty
A key week of negotiations kicks off Tuesday, as representatives descend on Ottawa to tackle the worldwide issue of plastic pollution. The fourth and penultimate installment of talks tees up a final session later this year in Korea, where parties hope to sign onto a binding global treaty on plastic. …
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