In three recent papers, South African biologists and environmentalists have listed pertinent research priorities for the next decade. These could help steer the protection of the country's plant and animal wealth, and that of the Cape Floristic Region in particular. The authors believe that the priorities set out could go a long way in addressing key threats raised in the … [Read more...]
Project Manager needed for River Ambassadors Programme
The Cape Town Environmental Education Trust (CTEET) are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic self-starter to project manage a novel training programme linked to river corridor rehabilitation. This position requires an engaging person with the relevant field experience and desire to mentor young trainees. Job Information Location: River corridors in Cape Town. … [Read more...]
Rediscovering ourselves in nature
When we no longer shudder at the ecological warning calls of science, the only voice left that can awaken us belongs to the poets. To hear that voice is to hear the language of the soul. Author and activist, Ian McCullum shares how we are impacting our environment and what we need to do as a human race to reverse the negative effects of over-population and our lack of care … [Read more...]
Big trees first to die in severe droughts
National forests whose names come from their large, majestic trees—such as Redwood National Park and Sequoia National Park in California—may need to rethink their brands as droughts increase in frequency and severity in many regions around the world due to climate change. New research published this week in the journal Nature Plants finds it’s the large trees that suffer most … [Read more...]
Algoa Bay chosen for new Hope Spot
Mission Blue has been helping to establish important marine areas around the globe as 'Hope Spots'. The idea is that by putting protection in place around these diverse ecosystems we can hope to save and restore the whole ocean. So far 50 Hope Spots have been established around the world and with the help of the Sustainable Seas Trust, South Africa will be home to 5 more by … [Read more...]
Plants perform molecular maths
As if making food from light were not impressive enough, it may be time to add another advanced skill to the botanical repertoire: the ability to perform — at least at the molecular level — arithmetic division. Computer-generated models published in the journal eLife illustrate how plants might use molecular mathematics to regulate the rate at which they devour starch … [Read more...]
The god of small things
On a botanical trip to one of the most neglected parts of our country – Klein Pella, near Aggeneys in the Northern Cape – the title of this famous book by Arundhati Roy developed a whole new meaning in my heart. I was invited to share one day in the veld with scientists, students and academics on the 2013 Enviro Outreach project, sponsored by Toyota Southern Africa. … [Read more...]
From waste to wonder
A little over a centimeter long, the common duckweed, Spirodela polyrrhiza, is often found colonizing ponds and lakes in a carpet of green. With a global distribution, the duckweed family claims the Guinness for some of the smallest, simplest, and fastest growing plants of the botanical world. Yet, despite their unassuming nature, these tiny fronds are making a huge splash in … [Read more...]
SU marine biologist writes new sea guide for children
Did you know that a starfish feeds by pushing its stomach out through its mouth and placing it directly over its prey? Did you also know that octopuses are quite clever? Or that Columbus’ crabs are sky blue? These are some of the facts contained in a new marine guide for children by Stellenbosch University marine biologist Dr Sophie von der Heyden. Her 88-page Southern … [Read more...]
Work for ailing oceans recognised internationally
South Africa is on the list of nominees for this year's Future Policy Award. It has been nominated for its policy No.24 of 2008 - National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act. The Future Policy Award celebrates policies that create better living conditions for current and future generations. It is granted by the World Future Council, an international … [Read more...]
UN bio chief becomes Honorary Councillor
United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Executive Secretary Ahmed Djoghlaf has become an Honorary Councillor of the World Future Council (WFC). Using the slogan 'Biodiversity is Life. Biodiversity is Our Life,' Mr. Djoghlaf was instrumental in leading the United Nations biodiversity summit in Nagoya, Japan, in 2010 to success and assured the adoption of the … [Read more...]
Marion Island and environs encapsulated in new book
The first coffee-table book - one that is a pleasure both to read and to look at - on the history, beauty and conservation of South Africa's southernmost territories, Marion Island and Prince Edward Island, has been compiled by experienced researchers who have spent decades studying sub-Antarctic islands. The book, Marion and Prince Edward - Africa's southern islands, was … [Read more...]
