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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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Denmark’s Green Revolution: 1 Billion Trees and 10% Farmland Conversion

 

In a groundbreaking move towards environmental sustainability, Denmark has announced an ambitious plan to plant 1 billion trees and convert 10% of its farmland into forests and natural habitats over the next two decades. This initiative, hailed as the most significant transformation of the Danish landscape in over a century, aims to reduce fertilizer usage and combat climate change.

The agreement, reached by a coalition of Danish lawmakers, allocates 43 billion kroner (approximately $6.1 billion) to acquire land from farmers. This will result in an additional 250,000 hectares (618,000 acres) of forest and the conversion of 140,000 hectares (346,000 acres) of low-lying, climate-damaging soils into natural habitats. Currently, forests cover 14.6% of Denmark’s land, and this initiative will significantly increase that percentage.

Jeppe Bruus, head of Denmark’s Green Tripartite Ministry, emphasized the historical significance of this change, comparing it to the draining of wetlands in 1864. The plan also includes a groundbreaking measure to tax livestock farmers for the greenhouse gases emitted by their animals, starting in 2030, making Denmark the first country to implement such a tax.

This comprehensive approach reflects Denmark’s commitment to leading the way in environmental conservation and climate action, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.


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