![On the back of a Dragonfly [B&W]](http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6194/6128449851_14ec409b56_s.jpg "On the back of a Dragonfly [B&W]")
RECOMMENDED READING
Do Humans Play a Role in Causing Deadly Wildlife Cancers?
"A wide array of species [are] afflicted by a range of cancers, according to a paper published in the July edition of Nature Reviews Cancer. 'Wildlife Cancer: a conservation perspective,' summarizes mounting evidence of human's contribution to carcinogenesis in wild-animal populations across the globe, thanks to man-made toxins dumped into wildlife's natural habitats." [Newsweek]
U.S. and China Sign Memorandum on Climate Change
"The United States and China, the world's largest emitters of greenhouse gases, signed an agreement on Tuesday that promises more cooperation on climate change, energy and the environment without setting firm goals...The document, released by the State Department, did not set any firm targets but reiterated support for a 10-year cooperation deal signed last year by the Bush administration and created a new climate change policy "dialogue" which would meet regularly. 'It is not an agreement per se for each side to commit themselves to some particular target. It sets a structure for dialogue,' said State Department spokesman Ian Kelly." [Reuters]
Human Activity is Driving Earth's 'Sixth Great Extinction Event'
"Earth is experiencing its "sixth great extinction event" with disease and human activity taking a devastating toll on vulnerable species, according to a major review by conservationists. Much of the southern hemisphere is suffering particularly badly, and Australia, New Zealand and neighbouring Pacific islands may become the extinction hot spots of the world, the report warns." [The Guardian]
Era of Trans-Arctic Shipping Nigh
"In part because of warming and the retreat and thinning of Arctic sea ice in summer, this northern sea route is slowly becoming a reality. Russian vessels have long hauled ore and oil along the country’s sprawling northern coast, but no commercial ships under other flags have passed between Asia and Western Europe. Now, a German company, the Beluga Group of Bremen, has a ship poised to make what appears to be the first such trip, an 8,000-mile shortcut compared with alternate routes. The 'Arctic Rush' is on." [Dot Earth-New York Times]
El Niño: Scientists Brace for More Coral Bleaching
"The start of another El Niño event may be welcome news to coastal areas vulnerable to Atlantic basin hurricanes. But it has scientists worried about fragile coral ecosystems. NOAA’s July Oceans Report confirmed what most climatologists expected: that a new El Niño event is underway, and will likely build through the summer months. El Niño is a weather pattern resulting in the rise of surface temperatures in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, but its effects are felt worldwide. One of El Niño’s most damaging consequences is coral bleaching...Coral bleaching is the sudden expulsion of tiny, single-cell algae by living coral. This happens under stressful conditions, such as when reef water becomes too warm." [Lighter Footstep]
EDITORIAL
- Walking the Land Where the Drilling Rigs Will Go [New York Times]
