Climate change is accelerating the melting of the world's mountain glaciers, causing ice loss to double since the early 2000s. A study revealed glaciers are losing up to 604 billion tons annually. Glaciers in Alaska are melting the fastest, and Central Europe has lost the most in percentage. This rapid loss contributes significantly to sea-level rise.
Related news
IIT Indore has developed a solar-powered water purification system for remote and coastal areas. The system uses ISSG technology and photothermal materials to desalinate saline water efficiently. Metal oxide-based inks absorb solar radiation to produce steam from saltwater without external energy. This scalable, cost-effective method offers a low-energy alternative to traditional processes like reverse osmosis.
At least five people have died and over 1,000 structures have been destroyed by wildfires in the Los Angeles area. Fueled by Santa Ana winds, the fires led to extensive evacuations and poor air quality. The Palisades Fire is notably the most destructive in LA history, burning 25 square miles and affecting many homes and businesses.
Three-year-old tigress Zeenat, relocated from Maharashtra to Odisha's Similipal Tiger Reserve, embarked on an unexpected journey. Escaping her enclosure, she crossed into Jharkhand, dodging tranquilizer darts and baffling authorities. Her trek continued into West Bengal, covering vast distances and challenging terrain, leaving trackers scrambling to keep up with her adventurous spirit. Will she return to Similipal? The mystery continues.
Many schools and shops in eastern Canada closed, flights were delayed, and driving was hazardous due to a major snowstorm in cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa. The storm brought significant snowfall, yet residents expressed delight at the wintery weather. Canadians joyfully engaged in snow activities despite the challenges.
Telangana's forests face a severe fire crisis, with incidents rising significantly to 13,497 in 2024. Mulugu and Bhadradri Kothagudem districts are among the top affected. Fires damage ecosystems, causing biodiversity loss and habitat destruction. Human activities, including negligent agricultural practices, are major contributors.
Wolves have made a strong comeback in Europe thanks to conservation efforts, but their resurgence has sparked conflicts with farmers worried about livestock losses. In response, the European Commission is considering easing protections to permit culling. Conservationists strongly oppose the proposal, highlighting the crucial role wolves play in maintaining biodiversity, restoring ecosystems, and combating climate change.
India argued that developed nations made a strong case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), highlighting the importance of equitable global action on climate change and calling for developed nations to bear greater responsibility for climate change mitigation and finance. India criticised inadequate financial support from developed countries and emphasized the unfair burden on developing nations with minimal historical emissions.
They appear tranquil soaring above Himalayan forests, but a string of cable car projects in Nepal have sparked violent protests, with locals saying environmental protection should trump tourism development. Across Nepal, five cable car projects have opened in the past two years -- and 10 more are under development, according to government figures.
IAS officer Ms. Supriya Sahu shared a rare and stunning video of two snow leopards playing in the snow in Ladakh's Zanskar region. Captured by Tashi Tsewang, the 28-second clip highlights the majestic and elusive nature of these animals. Snow leopards, or 'ghosts of the mountains,' are rarely seen, making this footage a remarkable find.
Cyclone Chido, having already caused fatalities in Mayotte, made landfall in Mozambique near Pemba with intense winds and heavy rainfall. Communication with Pemba has been lost, but reports indicate significant damage to homes, schools, and health facilities. Aid organizations are working with the government to provide essential services.