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Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Climbs to 3,145 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar nearly a week ago has claimed at least 3,145 lives, with search and rescue teams continuing to recover bodies from the rubble. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which had its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and destroyed bridges.  Humanitarian aid groups are working tirelessly to provide survivors with medical care and shelter, as thousands remain homeless and vulnerable to disease outbreaks. The United Nations estimates that over 17 million people have been affected by the disaster, with more than 9 million severely impacted.  In response to the crisis, Myanmar's military government has declared a temporary ceasefire to facilitate relief efforts. However, ongoing challenges, including communication blackouts and difficult-to-reach areas, have hindered the full assessment of the disaster's impact.  The coming days will be critical in d...

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How Tiny Forests Can Help Fight Climate Change and Boost Biodiversity

 

Climate change and biodiversity loss are two of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. But what if there was a simple and effective way to tackle both at once? Enter the tiny forest: a dense, fast-growing native woodland, usually about the size of a tennis court, that can provide multiple benefits for people and nature.

Tiny forests originated in Japan, where botanist Akira Miyawaki developed a method to plant a variety of native trees and shrubs in a small area, mimicking the natural succession of a forest. His goal was to restore the native vegetation that had been lost due to deforestation and urbanization. Since then, the concept has spread to many countries, including Canada, where several tiny forest projects have been launched in recent years.

According to research, tiny forests can capture more carbon, more quickly than conventional tree planting, as the trees and shrubs grow faster and compete for light. They can also support a rich diversity of wildlife, such as birds, butterflies and insects, creating a mini-ecosystem in urban areas. Moreover, they can improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and provide a place for people to connect with and learn about nature.

Tiny forests are also low-maintenance and cost-effective, as they require little watering and weeding after the first few years. They can be planted in vacant lots, neglected parks, or along busy roads, making use of underutilized spaces. They can also involve local communities, schools, and businesses, who can participate in the planting and monitoring of the forests.

Tiny forests are not a silver bullet for the environmental crisis, but they are a powerful tool that can make a difference at a local scale. By planting more tiny forests, we can help fight climate change and boost biodiversity, while also enhancing the well-being and resilience of our cities.

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