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Episodes
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the World
(15mb)
Thu, 20 Nov 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Sustainable Cork Farming Under Threat in Portugal -- Climate Witness Series: Alaska II -- Talking to Bright Sparks About Energy Saving Lights -- Salmon Returning to Rhine River -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.Tune in via the live-stream or download the program as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
Innovation Threatens Traditional Portuguese Cork HarvestingThe cork industry is generally regarded as environmentally friendly but now it is under threat.
The Cork Oak tree is native to southwest Europe and northwest Africa. The tree forms a thick, rough bark which can be harvested every 10 to 12 years as cork. The European cork industry produces 340,000 tonnes of cork a year. It is used as bottle stoppers for wine as well as in flooring and insulation. Yet this natural and renewable product is under threat, as the plastics industry makes inroads into the wine market. Living Planet found out more on a visit to Portugal, the largest producer of cork in the world.
(Report: Sylvia Smith)
Climate Witness Series: Alaska IIIn Living Planet's 'Climate Witness' series we hear first-hand testimonies about the consequences of climate change around the world.
The Polar Regions are warming faster than anywhere else in the world as a result of climate change. The vast areas of ice and snow are diminishing and having a widespread effect on human settlements, marine ecosystems and the coastal climate. The habitats and hunting areas for bears in Alaska are also shrinking. This week we hear from Joseph Prouk, a 'bear guard' who stands watch while scientists conduct their research in Alaska.
(Report: Irene Quaile)
Even Brighter Ideas to Save Energy With Light BulbsScientists are working towards innovative designs for lighting which could save energy and reduce carbon emissions.
Almost 20 per cent of all the energy produced in the world is used to power lights. So using energy saving bulbs could reduce the amount of energy we consume and also cut carbon dioxide emissions. Some experts say energy-saving bulbs do a much better job at providing light and more people are using them in their homes. Yet critics say these bulbs could work better and now researchers and companies are working on the next generation of improved energy-saving lights.
(Report: Frank Grotelueschen / Rob Turner)
Wild Salmon Return to the Rhine RiverFor the first time in 50 years, a wild salmon was caught in a tributary of the Rhine River near Basel.
A fisherman has made the catch of a lifetime by reeling in the first wild salmon sighted in Switzerland in fifty years. Judging from the size of the salmon, which was pulled out of a tributary of the Rhine near Basel, it travelled all the way down the river into the Atlantic before returning upstream to spawn. Experts are amazed the fish made its way past the barriers that still impede salmon migrating to the upper Rhine despite a salmon reintroduction project.
(Report: Kate Hairsine)
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 13 Nov 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Taking a tour of China?s new power valley -- Fighting an invasive species in Britain ? and -- Counting birds with computers -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.Tune in via the live-stream or download the program as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
Touring China's Power ValleyWith over 1.3 billion citizens, China is the world?s most populated country. It?s also the second largest emitter of carbon dioxide after the United States, an honor they are willing to go without.
China?s renewable energy policy aims to produce 15% of the country?s energy from non-carbon sources by 2020. In a small city not far from Beijing, this renewable energy future is being made ? literally. The manufacturing of wind turbines, solar panels, and other renewable components underpin the economy of Baoding. But the city is not just exporting carbon-decreasing technologies, with the help of the WWF, it?s also trying to reduce it?s own environmental footprint.
Report: Elise Potaka
Scientists Find a Solution to Fight the Japanese Knotweed Menace in BritainJust about every country on earth has to deal with invasive species in one form or another, be it animal or plant. In Britain on of the most damaging is a small plant that?s doing a lot of damage.
Britain has been invaded by an alien plant species. Japanese Knotweed (fallopia japonica) has spread with ferocious speed across the UK. It has undermined buildings, destroyed flood defenses and overwhelmed private gardens and public parks. Tackling it is costing millions of pounds. But now scientists have come up with a simple solution -- Aphalara itadori, a sap-sucking insect that devours the dreaded knotweed.
Scientists from the Center for Agriculture and Bioscience International have asked for government permission to introduce the insect. If they get the go-ahead, it will be the first time that a bio-control technique involving a natural organism to control a pest will have been used in Europe.
Report: Stephen Beard
Counting Birds with ComputersMonitoring how many birds of any particular species in a given area has always been demanding, time-consuming work. Now ornithologists are getting a little help from some microphones and a computer program.
There are around 10,000 species of birds living on the planet and they inhabit every continent and every ecosystem. On the densely populated continent of Europe there are 700 different species vying for space, and many of them are understandably in danger of becoming extinct. Determining how many birds of one particular species there is has always posed a problem to ornithologists. But that is about to change.
Daniel Wolff is a researcher at the University of Bonn. In partnership with the Animal Sound Archive at the Humboldt University in Berlin, he pioneered bioacoustic computer software that scans and identifies bird songs. Not only is it highly accurate, it also negates the need for humans to invade fragile ecosystems.
Report: Andrew Zubiri
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 6 Nov 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Germany?s Bird of the Year -- Capturing usable water out of the air -- Spreading the word about animal welfare -- and -- Climate Witness: Indonesia -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.Tune in via the live-stream or download the program as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
Kingfisher Named Bird of the Year 2009While the bird itself is not endangered, it can tell scientists a lot about how the environment is doing.
The Common Kingfisher has been crowned Germany?s bird of the year for 2009. The bird itself isn?t endangered, but conservationists are hoping the added attention this brings may results in increased protection for its dwindling habitat: rivers. Kingfishers need natural river banks and clean, clear water to flourish ? all of which are in short supply in Europe.
Report: Kate Hairsine
Coaxing Water Out of Thin AirPulling humidity out of the air is a cheap and environmentally safe way to provide the world?s ever growing population with usable water.
It may be fall in the northern hemisphere, but far south of the equator summer has almost arrived, and with it comes humidity. The air gets sticky and you sweat right through your clothes. But humidity isn?t all bad; in fact, it can be downright life saving, especially to those living in the world?s semi-arid regions. The Israeli company EWA, which stands for Extraction of Water from Air, has come up with a way to pull humidity out of the air in an economic and environmentally friendly way.
It sounds almost too good to be true, but the idea is actually thousands of years old. It is mentioned in the Bible and in ancient Jewish prayers, and archaeologists still find the stones ancient Israeli farmers used to collect water for their crops. Living Planet spoke to the CEO of EWA, Dr. Etan Bar, about the innovation.
Interview: Mark Mattox and Dr. Etan Bar, EWA
Passionate Pensioner Teaches Children About Animal WelfareA German woman, along with her dog, is spending her retirement trying to broaden the horizons of Germany?s youth.
Gisela Lichterfeld is a pensioner with a passion for educating the younger generation about animal welfare. Accompanied by her dog, Lucky, she visits schools in Germany to teach children about respect for animals. She wants to make them aware that a household pet is not just a cuddly "toy", but a living being that requires appropriate care and handling. Lichterfeld also aims to raise general awareness of animals' needs, including the issue of ethical farming practices.
Report: Eva Wutke
Climate Witness Series: IndonesiaIn Living Planet?s ?Climate Witness? mini-series we hear first-hand testimony about the consequences of climate change.
The effects of climate change in Indonesia could be devastating. Communities in Jakarta have been hit by floods and as weather conditions become more unpredictable it is disturbing the way rice farmers have worked for generations. We hear from Norman Givan an indigenous Dayak from West Kalimantan, or Borneo, in Indonesia.
Report: Cheryl Northey
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 30 Oct 2008 04:30:00 +0000
US Presidential Candidates? Energy Policies -- Eyewitness accounts about climate change from South America -- Scotland?s Remote Communities Becoming Energy Self-Sufficient -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.Tune in via the live-stream or download the program as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
Examining American Presidential Candidates? Energy PoliciesEnergy and climate change topics were a part of the political platforms of both Presidential candidates during their campaigns.
The United States of America holds less than 5% of the world?s population, yet produces almost one quarter of its greenhouse gas emissions. During the US presidential race both candidates Republican John McCain and Democrat Barack Obama mapped out how they would tackle global warming and address the energy security of the country in the future. Living Planet takes a closer look at the respective positions of both candidates during the presidential campaign trail in the lead up to the United States presidential election on November 4, 2008.
(Report: Leah McDonnell)
Climate Witness Series: Latin AmericaIn Living Planet?s ?Climate Witness? series we hear first-hand testimony about the consequences of climate change.
Latin America is already experiencing climate change in various ways. As global temperatures rise, the Amazon rain forest, which plays a key role in helping to regulate the earth?s climate ? and in providing a home to countless species of animals and plants - could become dryer. Meanwhile, in other areas, heavier and more frequent rain could see an increase in tropical water-borne diseases. We hear from Tony James, who is the President of the Amerindian Peoples Association in Guyana, South America.
(Report: Cheryl Northey)
Scotland's Remote Communities Seek Sustainable FutureThe biggest issue facing communities in Scotland's remote areas at the moment is the global energy crisis.
Petrol prices are on average 10% higher in the highlands and islands, and people living in these areas are more reliant on private transport to reach essential services. Many communities in the highlands and islands are preparing to become self sufficient in energy within three years. Living Planet visits western Scotland to find out how they are planning a greener energy future.
(Report: Cheryl Northey)
International Award for Arctic FeatureLiving Planet received the 2nd prize at the Turquoise 2008 International Radio Competition for "Meeting the Inupiat" - a feature from the series "Baked Alaska".
Living Planet's Irene Quaile accompanied a group of young ?Climate Ambassadors? to the Arctic region of Alaska in May. While there they interviewed Inupiat-Eskimos and scientists to find out about climate change.
The Turquoise 2008 jury selected the feature ? one of a series from the trip ? as an excellent radio production, which reports on the difficult living conditions of the Inupiat and the wide-ranging effects of climate change from various perspectives.
Simply scroll down Living Planet's page for the whole "Baked Alaska" series.
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 23 Oct 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Climate change opens the Arctic ? Combating desertification ? Using online activism to tackle big business ? Eyewitness accounts about climate change ? these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.
Tune in via the live-stream or download the program as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.Climate Change Opens the ArcticBoth the Northwest and Northeast Passages were completely ice free this summer. Great for shipping, but how bad is it for the environment?
The German research vessel Polarstern has returned to the port of Bremerhaven after its journey to the Arctic. The ship is operated by the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research, or AWI, which carries out research in the Arctic and Antarctic as well as the high and mid latitude oceans.
Due to the complete lack of ice in both the Northwest and Northeast passages this summer, the Polarstern was the first research vessel to cruise completely around the North Pole. On board were researchers from 12 nations, including Germany, France, Japan, Russia and the United States. Living Planet spoke with Dr Ruediger Gerdes, a physical oceanographer with AWI.
Interview: Mark Mattox and Ruediger Gerdes, AWI
Environment, Forced Migration and Social VulnerabilityDesertification doesn?t just threaten millions of hectares of land, but also the livelihood of countless numbers of people.
This month, the first international conference on the topic of "environment, forced migration and social vulnerability" took place in Bonn. Some 500 experts, politicians and students took part in the event, which showcased speakers from around the world.
For three days the visitors discussed the effects of environmental and climate change. There was one point which they all agreed on - the necessity to effectively counteract the spread of desert regions. Maximilian Rech visisted the conference and his report is presented by Eva Wutke.
Report: Maximilian Rech / Eva Wutke
Online Activism Provides Real Action on Climate ChangeBy using the internet some people are taking a stand and beating big business at the emissions game.
It was controversial from the start and it still is today; the EU?s Emissions Trading Scheme created a market in emissions by capping corporate pollution levels. Those companies wanting to emit more than this cap have to buy their permits from cleaner rivals. It?s supposed to an incentive to reduce emissions over time and invest in cleaner energy sources, but it?s been dogged by accusations that it?s merely favoured big business at the expense of the environment.
But now environmental campaigners think they?ve found a way of beating the emissions market at its own game. Naomi Fowler?s been investigating.
Report: Naomi Fowler
Climate Witness Series: AlaskaIn Living Planet?s new ?Climate Witness? mini-series we hear first-hand testimony about the consequences of climate change.
George Divoky is an ornithologist from the institute of Arctic Biology at the University of Fairbanks in Alaska. He has spent most of his career observing a colony of black guillemots, a type of seabird, on Cooper Island, a remote and otherwise uninhabited island in the Arctic Beufort Sea, around 35 miles north of Barrow, the northernmost settlement in the US. Over the past 30 years, George's bird watching project has turned into an observation of climate change at its most dramatic.
Report: Irene Quaile
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Why European fruit orchards are in danger -- How eco-friendly footwear is helping to save the planet -- 2009 announced as the Year of the Gorilla -- All this and more in this edition of Living Planet.
Saving the OrchardsCentral-European fruit-tree meadows, which provide living space for thousands of species, are among the most endangered habitats in Europe.
Up until the 1950s, ?fruit-tree meadows? or ?grassland orchards? were an integral part of the Central European landscape. But this traditional type of orchard, with its mix of different fruit trees in one field, just hasn?t been able to compete with modern monoculture fruit-growing methods.
Kate Hairsine visited a volunteer project that?s helping to preserve these meadows in the German state of Baden Württemberg.
Report: Kate Hairsine
Eco-Shoes Leaving Behind No FootprintHow many people take the concept of their eco-footprint literally and consider what impact their shoes are having on the earth?
Some European shoe manufacturers are thinking about just that ? and they?re developing a range of ?eco-shoes?, which are meant to leave behind only a small, if non-existent, footprint on the earth.
Report: Catherine Graue
2009 - Year of the GorillaThe Gorilla ? our second-closest relative after the chimpanzee ? is a highly endangered species, with its current habitat limited to a few parts of central Africa.
This is exactly why the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, also known as the Bonn Convention, will declare 2009 as the Year of the Gorilla. Its aim is raising awareness and aiding the survival of this fascinating species.
Irene Quaile spoke to gorilla expert and UN ambassador, Ian Redmond, and asked him about the significance of the Year of the Gorilla.
Interview: Irene Quaile
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 9 Oct 2008 04:30:00 +0000
IUCN releases their Red List of Endangered Species ? Sailing to Barcelona harbor for environmental awareness ? Eyewitness accounts about climate change ? these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.
Tune in via the live-stream or download the programme as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
IUCN Publishes Red List of Endangered SpeciesThe IUCN is perhaps best known for its Red List of Endangered Species, which is a kind of health check for the planet. Currently the planet is not in good shape.
This time of year, people from all over the Europe often head to Spain to get their last dose of fun in the sun before the long, cold winter sets in. But this week Barcelona is drawing crowds looking to do more than just get a tan on the beach. The Spanish port city is the place to be for anybody interested in ecological issues.
The IUCN or International Union for the Conservation of Nature, is the world?s biggest and oldest global environmental network. It only holds its general congress every four years. And this time, it?s come to Barcelona. Our Living Planet team is there to report back on the latest news.
Report: Irene Quaile
Voices of IUCNThousands of people have descended on Barcelona, Spain for the ecological conference.
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature, or IUCN, holds its general congress every four years. This year it?s taking place in the Spanish port city of Barcelona, and has drawn visitors from around the world. Living Planet talked with a few of them to find where they?re from and what brought them to the conference.
Vox Pops: Irene Quaile / Nina Haase
Sailing to BarcelonaA group of environmentalists are hoisting their sails and floating into the Barcelona harbor to draw attention to the threat faced by the animals and plants living in the world?s oceans.
Some of the participants at the World Conservation Congress took a route that many would consider rather unusual. "Sailing to Barcelona" is an initiative that brought a colorful flotilla of several dozen boats from around the world sailing into the picturesque harbor this weekend.
Their mission: to join the IUCN conference and pass on the message that we can and must protect our seas, oceans and coasts. The boats are not just ordinary sailing vessels. Each is living proof that something can be done to protect the extraordinary environment that covers more than two thirds of the earth. The Living Planet team jumped aboard the French ship Garlaban, as it left the old harbor of Barcelona to join in the parade of boats.
Report: Nina Haase
Climate Witness Series: TanzaniaIn Living Planet?s new ?Climate Witness? mini-series we hear first-hand testimony about the consequences of climate change.
This week we take a look at Tanzania. The eastern African nation is extremely vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The frequency of droughts and flooding is on the rise, which impacts water resources, food and agriculture and can possibly lead to famine. In part four of ?Climate Witness?, Grace Mketto, from the Institut Africain pour le Développement Economique et Social (INADES) speaks about her country?s struggle.
Report Andrew Zubiri / Irene Quaile
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:30:00 +0000
China introduces incentives to curb pollution -- Eye witness accounts about climate change ? Sailing around the world raise awareness for whales and dolphins -- Artists and scientists come together to discuss climate change -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.Tune in via the live-stream or download the programme as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
Chinese Government Cleans Up in ShanxiChina has topped the list of the world's worst CO2 emitters. Now the government is offering incentives in a bid to clean up some of its most polluted cities.
China has surpassed the United States as the world's biggest carbon emitter. That?s according to a new report released by the research consortium Global Carbon Project (GCP). Until 2005, rich countries emitted most of the world's man-made CO2. Today, however, developing countries, including China, account for 53 percent of the total. This is due mainly to a soaring demand for coal and a surge in cement production.
More than two-thirds of China?s power is coal generated. And while the skies over Beijing were generally clear for the Olympic period, smog still clouds the air in China?s coal capital, Shanxi province. Located in the country?s mid north, Shanxi is home to three of the country?s most polluted cities. For years, coal, and industrial pollutants have blackened the air and contaminated the water and soil. But now the central government is offering incentives to get Shanxi?s cities to clean up their backyard.
Report: Elise Potaka
Climate Witness Series: IndiaIn Living Planet's 'Climate Witness' series we hear first-hand testimony to the consequences of climate change.
While China tops out the list of the world?s largest carbon emitters, its neighbor to the south, India, comes in at number four and it is estimated that it will soon surpass Russia, which is currently in the number three spot.
India has a diverse landscape, with a long coast line, tropical rainforests in the south and glacier covered mountains in the north. All of these areas are feeling the effects of climate change. In part three of ?Climate Witness? we meet Nafisa DaSouza, convenor of the Network on Ethics and Climate Change in India.
Report: Andrew Zubiri / Irene Quaile
Racing for Whales and DolphinsMost major races involve heavy input from corporate sponsorship. And while that applies to the majority of the ships in the Volvo Yacht Race, there is one that has gone a different direction.
On October 11 in the Spanish city of Alicante the world?s longest yacht race will leave port, arriving in the Russian city of St. Petersburg nine months and 39,000 kilometers later. While most of the ships in the Volvo Ocean Race are sponsored by large corporations, the Russian team has formed a partnership with the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society, or WDCS, to highlight the urgent need for better protection of the world?s whales and dolphins.
The yacht?s mainsail is emblazoned with a large logo that says "We Sail for the Whale", and the crew has been trained by WDCS to recognize different whale and dolphin species that inhabit the oceans they will be sailing through. Living Planet speaks to Nicolas Entrup, head of WDCS Germany.
Interview: Mark Mattox
Artists and Scientists Spread Climate Change AwarenessIt isn?t often that art is associated with climate change. Living Planet takes a look at a group of artists and scientists which has come together to share the ideas on the subject.
A forum for spreading the word about the challenges our planet is facing has traveled from Great Britain to Germany. It?s called Tipping Point, and it?s aimed at bringing together scientists and artists to share their thoughts on climate change. Since 2005 this annual series, held in partnership with the Environmental Change Institute of the University of Oxford, has blossomed into events being held in an increasing number of countries.
The first `Tipping Point´ to be organized outside the United Kingdom was run in Germany at the renowned Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) last year. Last weekend the institute joined forces with The German Federal Cultural Foundation and the British Council to bring more than 100 participants together at the historic Albert Einstein Research Campus in Potsdam for their second `Tipping Point´ in Germany.
Report: Peter Zimmermann
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Canadian Greens looking forward to election -- Eye witness accounts about climate change ? Earth Overshoot Day and ecological debt -- Polish library inspires young children-- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.Tune in via the live-stream or download the programme as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
Canadian Green Party ?Looking Forward? to ElectionCanada?s Environmentalist party, the Green Party of Canada made a big surge in the latest opinion poll despite moves to exclude them from televised debates.
The Green Party of Canada aims to bring a fresh perspective to politics by ?fostering a liveable world with healthy communities based on healthy economies for future generations?.
They say they are facing the major threats of our time, such as climate change and the growing gap between rich and poor, with ?clear-eyed realism?. Support for the party is on the rise but is it enough to see them winning seats in a few weeks time?
Report: Dan Karpenchuk
Climate Witness Series: Southern AsiaIn Living Planet's 'Climate Witness' series we hear first-hand testimony to the consequences of climate change.
The shifts in the climate are starting to have an impact on the mountainous areas of landlocked Central Asia. In Kyrgyzstan farmers are facing a serious agricultural crisis because of water shortages as the rivers dry up and rain fall declines.
We hear from Nurzat Abdyrasulova, Director and Founder of Civic Environmental Foundation UNISON in part two of 'Climate Witness'.
Report: Andrew Zubiri/Irene Quaile
Increasing Ecological Debt on Earth Overshoot DaySeptember 23 marked the day when people have used all the resources nature will generate this year, according to Global Footprint Network.
Earth Overshoot Day marks the day when humanity begins living beyond its ecological means. Beyond that day, we move into the ecological equivalent of deficit spending, utilizing resources at a rate faster than the planet can regenerate in a calendar year. Mathis Wackernagel from the Global Footprint Network speaks to Living Planet about the ways to change the bottom line.
Interview: Cheryl Northey
Innovative Polish Eco-Library Nurtures Young EnvironmentalistsChildren discover eco-facts and eco-fictions in a library in Legnica which used to be one of the most polluted cities in Poland.
In the late 1980s the entire region was on the brink of ecological collapse because of contamination from copper mining and processing in the area. A number of projects were set up to improve the environment. Today, it is an ecological role model for other cities, winning awards such as the "European Ecological Award".
The city concentrates its efforts on environmental awareness and education programmes so that children learn environmental behaviour and will hopefully become eco-friendly adults.
Report: Justyna Bronska / Nina Haase
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (15mb)
Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Giving a face to climate change ?Eye witness accounts about climate change -- Lowest ever sea ice level in Arctic -- World?s most energy efficient building in Germany -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.Tune in via the live-stream or subscribe to Living Planet as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
Environment Groups Giving a Face to Climate ChangeThe Climate Alliance in Germany unites more than 100 groups in a common goal to draw attention to the causes of climate change around the world.
This prompted the ?Climate Witnesses? partnership, which has brought spokespeople from areas affected by climate change to Germany with a view to encouraging more industrialised nations to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. They?ve been involved in demonstrations against new coal-fired power plants and telling about their own personal experience of climate change in their home countries. Women in Europe for a Common Future (WECF) is one of host organisations. Living Planet speaks to Sabine Bock, Energy and Climate Change Co-ordinator about the touring Climate Witnesses project.
(Interview: Irene Quaile)
Climate Witness Mini-Series: Fiji and the Pacific IslandsIn Living Planet?s new ?Climate Witness? mini-series we hear first-hand testimony about the consequences of climate change.
The shifts in the climate are starting to have an impact on local environments and communities. Communities in the Pacific region are perhaps most at risk from climate change, because rising sea levels are threatening island populations close to the coast.
In part one of ?Climate Witness? we meet Dr. Fe?iloakitau Tevi, Executive Secretary of the Pacific desk of the World Council of Churches.
(Report: Andrew Zubiri/Irene Quaile)
Lowest Ever Sea Ice Level Recorded in ArcticThe Arctic sea ice coverage is shrinking at a far faster rate than anticipated. In 2007 the extent of the Arctic ice was 23% lower than the previous record in 2005.
This year?s figures seem set to break that sad record. Arctic sea ice is important not only for polar flora, fauna and indigenous people living there, but also because it reflects most sunlight, keeping polar regions ? and other parts of the planet - cool . Dr Martin Sommerkorn, WWF International Arctic Programme's Senior Climate Change Advisor speaks to Living Planet about the global impact of the thinning ice.
(Interview: Irene Quaile)
World?s Most Energy Efficient Building in GermanyGerman company JUWI was awarded the German Climate Protection Prize 2008 for energy-saving ideas. It?s one of the very few buildings in the world which produces more energy than it uses.
The environmental organization, Environment Help Germany, has awarded JUWI wind and solar energy consulting firm the German Climate Protection Prize 2008 for implementing energy-saving ideas in their new headquarters. Living Planet went over the building in the tiny town of Wörrstadt to find out more about this architectural and environmental wonder.
(Report: Mark Mattox)
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (14mb)
Thu, 4 Sep 2008 04:30:00 +0000
The Environment and the US Presidential Election -- Coastal engineers investigate ways to protect coastal cities -- The first Green European Summer University in Germany -- Axon working towards affordable eco-friendly cars -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.Tune in via the live-stream or subscribe to Living Planet as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
The United States Presidential Election and the ClimateBarack Obama is selling himself as a candidate for change in the presidential race. That includes altering US policy in the fields of energy and the environment.
The U.S. Republican party named John McCain as their presidential candidate this week. The Democrats nominated Barack Obama last week. Obama has relentlessly sold himself as the candidate for change. Now with soaring gas prices, he?s broadening that slogan to climate change and energy. While Europe has traditionally taken the lead on addressing these issues, it seems that times may be a changin?.
Report: Nancy Greenleese
Working Towards Cheaper Eco-Friendly CarsBritish automotive manufacturer Axon says it has come up with a newer eco-car that costs less and is even less harmful to the environment.
Hybrid electric cars like the Toyota Prius or the Honda Civic have received green accolades for reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Still, a lot of people are reluctant or unable to pay the hefty price for them. Now British car company Axon has introduced a new, and cheaper, challenger to the market.
Report: Stephen Beard
Coastal Engineers Investigate Ways to Protect Coastal CitiesIt is the peak time in the hurricane season and scientists are still struggling to predict the number, strength and likely areas they will strike next.
Hamburg in Germany is currently the location of the International Conference on Coastal Engineering. Among the experts attending is Dr. Jim Houston, the Director of Research for the United States Army Corps of Engineers, which handles the nation's water resource projects, navigation and beaches.
Living Planet talks to Dr. Houston about whether changing the way we treat our coasts can help us protect our coastal cities better against the effects of extreme weather events and rising sea levels.
(Interview: Irene Quaile)
The First Green European Summer University Held in GermanyUniversity students and young professionals from over 42 countries around the world attended the first ever Green European Summer University in Frankfurt, Germany.
The Green European Summer University was organised by the Greens and the European Free Alliance in the European Parliament. Entitled ?Bridging the Gaps?, the program is intended to build intellectual and cultural bridges in the green Europe of the future.
(Report: Nadine Wojcik)
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (14mb)
Thu, 28 Aug 2008 04:30:00 +0000
UN make progress on deforestation reduction scheme -- What has Greece learnt from last year's forest fires? -- Swedish wind-powered cars could revolutionise farming in South America -- Sniffer dogs are trained to catch wildlife smugglers at German airport -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.
Tune in via the live-stream or subscribe to Living Planet as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de. UN Make Progress on Deforestation Reduction SchemeThe latest round of UN climate change negotiations came to an end in Accra, Ghana, this week. How to encourage countries to stop deforestation was one of the most important topics of debate.
The international community met in Accra to continue their work on a Kyoto follow up protocol as well as on emission reduction rules and tools under the Protocol as it?s currently in place. How to reduce deforestation globally was one of the most important topics of debate at the Accra summit.
Deforestation and degradation account for around 20% of global man-made greenhouse gas emissions. Interest in reducing this is high. Most proposals for mechanisms to ?Reduce Emissions for Deforestation and Degradation? (REDD) are still on the drawing board but they are all based on the idea that developed countries would pay developing countries to keep their forests intact by implementing a range of policies and projects.
So far, neither the UN Climate Change Convention nor its Protocol have had any provisions for limiting tropical deforestation. Attending the summit in Accra was David Huberman from the conservation group IUCN. Living Planet talks to him about the progress that's been made in the setting up of mechanisms that help reduce tropical deforestation.
Interview: Nina Haase
What Has Greece Learnt From Last Year's Forest Fires?Forest aren?t only disappearing in developing countries. Many European countries have a poor record on forest protection. Have the Greek learned their lesson from last year's forest fires? Experts believe a different attitude towards the environment could have saved the lives of many.
The Peloponnese is a peninsula in Greece that was devastated by forest fires around this time last year. The fires claimed the lives of 67 people. With air temperatures higher than 40 degrees Celsius and strong winds blowing across a drought-stricken landscape, the fires spread at an alarming pace.
There are those who say the disaster could have been prevented, not least through different attitudes towards the environment. So has Greece learnt anything in the year gone by?
Report: Cheryl Northey/ Petra Wilhelm
Swedish Wind-Powered Cars Could Revolutionise FarmingWith soaring petrol prices and increased concern about the impacts of car exhausts on our atmosphere, the scientific community is developing alternatives. In Sweden, the latest invention are cars that come with their own wind turbine.
Electric cars are becoming more and more common, at least with drivers concerned about the environment. But there's a downside to them all - the electricity they use is often produced through using fossil fuels which pollute the air and contribute to global warming. Coal-fired power stations, for example.
Now, engineering students in Sweden say they've come up with a solution- an electric vehicle which comes with its own wind turbine. And the first to benefit from this technology will be farmers in South America. Living Planet hops in for a test ride in Sweden.
Report: Lars Bevanger
Sniffer Dogs Catch Wildlife Smugglers Red-Handed at German AirportWildlife smuggling is a booming industry. Customs at Frankfurt Airport have developed a new method of catching smugglers red-handed: they train dogs to sniff out live animals and plants in passengers' luggage. Living Planet visits them at their workplace.
Every year, millions of threatened species of animals and plants are smuggled around the world. It?s an industry that?s estimated to be worth billions of dollars and that varies from trading live animals and plants to foods, leather goods, souvenirs and medicines.
Frankfurt Airport is one of Europe?s largest airports, and the gateway to the European Union -- one of the biggest and most diverse markets for illegal wildlife products. Last year alone customs at Frankfurt made 561 seizures.
Now, customs, in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund, have come up with a new method of increasing pressure on wildlife smugglers: they?ve trained two dogs to sniff out live animals and plants. Living Planet watches them at Frankfurt Airport, their working environment.
Report: Catherine Graue
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Thu, 21 Aug 2008 04:30:00 +0000
This week we bring you a water special with these topics: WWF says World Water Week deals with world?s most precious resource -- Do you know how big your water footprint is? -- The Expo Zaragoza calls itself the Water Tribunal -- How zero tillage can help reduce water consumption in agricultureThese topics and more in this special edition of Living Planet dedicated to our most precious resource: water. Tune in via the live-stream or subscribe to Living Planet as podcast. Send your comments to features@dw-world.de.
WWF: World Water Week Deals With Most Precious ResourceWorld Water Week is underway in Stockholm. Experts are trying to find solutions for a worsening global water crisis that threatens the livelihood of thousands of people and animals.
The Swedish capital, Stockholm, is currently hosting two and a half-thousand experts from around the globe for the World Water Week conference. It?s an annual event co-ordinated by the Stockholm International Water Institute.
The conservation organisation WWF has increased its presence at the event this year. Living Planet talks to one of the delegation leaders David Tickner about the aims of World Water Week.
Interview: Irene Quaile
How Big is Your Water Footprint?Did you know it takes 140 litres to produce one single cup of coffee? Tune in to hear more mind-boggling figures.
Water consumption is especially high in the western world. And it?s not just because we have our daily showers and switch on our washing machines regularly. Most of us will be surprised to find out that the largest share of water gets consumed through the food we eat and the clothes we wear.
WWF has compiled a gallery where we can check how many litres of water are needed to produce one hamburger, for instance. And some of them are mind-boggling figure Living Planet confronted consumers on the streets of Bonn with some of them.
Report: Fenna Wächter
Expo Zaragoza: The Water TribunalThe Expo Zaragoza tries to make people aware that especially in the industrialised world we need to reduce our consumption of the precious resource water as much as we can.
Creating awareness with consumers is crucial in combating the water crisis. An international exposition promoting water and sustainable development is underway in Spain. The last expo, in 2005, held in the Japanese city of Aichi, also focused on the environment. Before that, here in Germany, Expo2000 in Hannover tried to inspire us with answers to the technological challenges of the future.
Not a lot has been heard about either of those Expos since, but this one in Zaragoza has promised not to be forgotten. It?s called The Water Tribunal and until the month of September, the Expo is committed to finding solutions to the world?s water problems.
Report: Danny Wood
Zero Tillage Reduces Water Consumption in FarmingZero tillage is a method where fields are cultivated without turning over the soil. Experts hope that it will reduce water consumption, fuel costs and soil erosion.
According to WWF estimates most water ? about 70 to 80 percent -- gets used ? and wasted ? in agriculture. One aspect you might not have thought about is ploughing. Today, most fields are ploughed. Farmers in temperate latitudes invented the plough to fight weeds.
But some experts say ploughing actually wastes water in dry areas through evaporation and leads to more soil erosion. And modern ploughing also uses up a lot of petrol. That?s why some agricultural researchers these days are advocating what?s known as ?zero tillage?, meaning farming without turning over the fields.
But a better yield and less water consumption doesn?t mean the method?s a panacea.
Report: Gabor Paal/ Kateri Jochum
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (14mb)
Thu, 14 Aug 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Tourists sight giant pod of whales off Alaskan coast -- International Youth Day puts emphasis on combating climate change -- Cyprus suffers worst drought in 100 years -- Eco-tourists flock to Switzerland's Entlebuch region -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.
Tune in via the live-stream or subscribe to the programme as a podcast. Send your comments to features@dw-world.de.On a Whalewatching Boat With Researchers in AlaskaCollecting data on cetaceans is difficult because they live far offshore. In Alaska, scientists have been observing orcas since the 1970s. Living Planet reporter Emily Schwing was there when they sighted a superpod of whales.
The latest study on the situation of whales, dolphins and porpoises around the globe shows that species have experienced mixed fortunes: The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species update finds that some large species, like humpbacks, have increased in number. Populations of smaller species, such as river dolphins, however, have been declining.
The conservation union IUCN is convinced their findings show that efforts to protect animals pay off and that species can recover. But they?ve only been able to assess half of the world?s cetaceans because of a lack of data.
Collecting data for cetaceans is indeed very difficult: They live far offshore, and some of them are found in remote parts of the world. In Alaska, researchers have been studying whales off the coast since the 1970s. This summer, one main focus of research was on orcas, or killer whales. In the Northwestern portion of the Gulf of Alaska, a whalewatching tour boat recently reported sighting a pod of killer whales. But what researchers found wasn?t just a pod? it was a superpod!
Report: Emily Schwing
International Youth Day: ?Action for Climate?Who says young people are not interested in becoming active to protect the environment? We give you the "Climate Change College" ambassadors who carry out projects all across Europe.
The UN?s International Youth Day was celebrated around the globe on August the 12th. This year, it was dedicated to combating climate change, with the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon calling on young people around the world to become active in tackling the climate change problem.
A group of young people have been doing exactly that, as "climate ambassadors" and students of the Climate Change College. This summer, they went on a field trip to Arctic Alaska earlier this summer. And their commitment to tackling climate change doesn?t stop there.
Report: Irene Quaile
Cyprus Suffers Worst Drought in 100 YearsCyprus is suffering the worst drought in 100 years. The Mediterranean island has started rationing its water, and found an intriguing solution against empty water reservoirs.
While here in Germany and other parts of northern Europe are suffering from heavy rain and frequent flooding, the sunny Mediterranean tourist island of Cyprus is grappling with the opposite problem.
Cyprus is chronically short of water - some parts of the island have had no more than a brief shower for over four years. Water reserves are now at their lowest level for a century. But the Cypriots have come up with an intriguing solution.
Report: Tabitha Morgan
Eco-tourists Flock to Switzerland?s Entlebuch RegionSwitzerland is a popular destination with tourists. Tourism is one of the country?s most important industries. Switzerland, it seems, is an ideal destination for people looking to spend their holidays close to nature.
And that?s what more and more people are interested in. There are no reliable figures on eco-tourism in Switzerland just yet, but tourism experts believe the number of eco-tourists in the country has risen sharply over the past few years.
One region that was amongst the first to embrace the concept, is the Entlebuch region, between Bern and Lucerne. In 2001, it was accepted as the first Swiss UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
These are pilot regions, where the emphasis is on conservation of the natural and cultural landscapes, while bolstering the economy by actively involving the locals in shaping their livelihoods and opportunities for business and recreation.
Report: Veronika Meier/ Catherine Graue
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Thu, 7 Aug 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Red List Update: Half of World?s Primates Could Disappear Soon -- Traditional Healers Help Protect Forests in Africa -- German Initiative Turns Church Towers into Homes for Falcons -- The Other Olympics: World Records in the Animal World -- these stories and more in this edition of Living PlanetTune in via the live-stream or subscribe to Living Planet as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de.
Red List Update: Half the World's Primates Could Disappear SoonClose to half of the world?s primates are in danger of becoming extinct. That?s according to the latest update of the Red List of Endangered Species published by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature or IUCN this week.
It was the first comprehensive review in five years of the world?s 634 kinds of primates. In Asia, more than 70 percent of primates are classified on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable, Endangered or Critically Endangered -- meaning they could disappear forever in the near future.
Living Planet speaks to Jean-Christophe Vié, the Deputy Head of the IUCN Species Programme, about the main threats.
Interview: Irene Quaile
Traditional Healers Help Protect Forests in AfricaRwanda is the most densely populated country in Africa. With over 90% of the population living on subsistence agriculture, natural resources are coming under increasing pressure.
The situation is particularly bad in the over-crowded foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes ? which is home not only to the famous mountain gorillas but an estimated 800 people per square kilometre.
People illegally enter the park in search of meat, building materials and firewood ? often damaging the forest as they go. But a study has shown that traditional healers, who also collect from the forest, are actually helping to preserve it by cultivating medicinal gardens.
Report: Anna Lacey
German Initiative Turns Church Towers into Homes for FalconsHabitat loss meant fewer breeding grounds for barn owls and kestrels in Germany. "Habitat church tower" is an initiative that helps the animals nest high up in church steeples.
Germany is not home to great apes of any kind, but more and more of OUR endemic species are also coming under threat. Germany has some 50,000 European kestrels ? often known as the "elegant bird of prey". But this species? future was in jeopardy. The same goes for Barn Owls. Both were unable to breed successfully, because they were being shut out from their own nests.
Two thirds of mating kestrel pairs in Germany choose to nest in church steeples ? but that?s no easy task, as churches across the country have been closing off the entry points in their steeples, to keep out unwanted guests: pigeons. Then the environmental conservation organisation, NABU, decided to join forces with Churches across Germany to rectify the situation.
Report: Catherine Graue
The Other Olympics ? World Records in the Animal WorldFaster, higher, deeper -- the Olympics are starting on August 8th. But if animals were allowed to some of the competitions, there would hardly be any medals left for human athletes.
Did you know that falcons can fly at a speed of up to 400 kilometres? That?s been measured in the United States. Now, with the Olympics starting this week in Beijing, China, the news will be all about speed, weight, and height records once again.
We take this as an opportunity to bring you a medal count with a difference. Living Planet looks into what global conservation group WWF calls the Animal Olympics.
Report: Nina Haase
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Thu, 31 Jul 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Tidal currents supply energy to the UK -- WWF project encourages a sustainable future -- Passing the "Eco-Driving" test -- Eco-friendly outdoor dining in New York -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.
Tune in via the live-stream or download the programme as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de. Tidal Currents Supply Energy to the UKMost people have heard of wind energy or solar energy, but what about electricity created by the ebbing and rising of the tides? A firm in the UK is testing new tidal energy generators.
Lying in the North Atlantic, the British Mainland and Northern Ireland are well known for their changeable weather and windswept coastlines. In fact, the UK has some of the strongest tidal currents in the world, making it an ideal place to develop tidal electricity.
The world?s first commercial-scale tidal power turbine has just supplied the British grid with its first surge of tidal electricity. The turbine, known as SeaGen, is being tested with a view to launching full commercial operations in a few weeks time.
Report: Stephen Beard
WWF Project Motivates Young PeopleWe all know that we should do everything we can to help stop climate change. Well now there is a network that hopes to aid in that task. It encourages young entrepreneurs to come up with viable technologies to reduce emissions and combat global warming.
Encouraging people to develop and implement new technologies on a large scale to reduce emissions and combat global warming is the aim of a network called Global Focus. The project was initiated by the international conservation group WWF, with the aim of motivating young people to come up with new technologies and ideas for a sustainable future, while they are still students.
But it?s rapidly developing into a self-sustaining project with its own momentum. Jakob Rutqvist from Sweden is one of the global project leaders behind Global Focus. Living Planet met Rutqvist at an event organised by the Climate Change College and asked him how he came to be involved.
Interview: Irene Quaile
Eco-Driving in SwedenWith the price of petrol these days, getting the most out of a car's engine is on every driver's mind. Eco-driving is always a good thing to learn, but now Sweden is making it a requirement to get a driver's license.
Even if we don?t all have really fuel-efficient cars, you can still reduce your fuel-consumption, just by driving differently.
In its continuing efforts to achieve the targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions set by the European Union, Sweden is targeting drivers. A new law makes fuel-efficient driving part of the test to get a licence. ?Eco-driving?, as it?s called, has become part of the Swedish social contract.
Report: Alison Hawkes
Eating Organically al FrescoA lot of people who choose to spend their summer days eating in the great outdoors won't bother to be eco-friendly about it. Most will use non-biodegradable plates and silverware, and toss them out when they're finished. One cafe in New York is hoping to show people that there are other options.
For those of us living in the northern hemisphere, it?s summer, and time for outdoor eating, either on your own patio or at one of your favourite restaurants or bistros. There?s often a strong temptation to use throwaway cutlery or crockery and forget some of your established ecological principles. But if you happen to live in New York City, you can actually do the very opposite.
The Habana Outpost is New York City?s first solar-powered, organic eatery, located in one of the trendiest areas of Brooklyn. It has an ambience all of its own - but the restaurant?s winning ingredient is its hard-core environmental convictions and practices. Going Green, it seems, is all the rage in New York. But is it simply the city?s latest trend, or the start of something that will have a lasting impact?
Report: Leah McDonnell
- Living Planet: Environment Matters Around the Globe (14mb)
Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Beijing Olympics water demand puts farmers under pressure -- Climate change turns world?s drying wetlands into "carbon bomb? -- A key region in biodiversity protection: the South American Pantanal -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.
Tune in via the live-stream or download the programme as a podcast. Send your comments and questions to features@dw-world.de. Beijing Olympics Water Demand Puts Farmers Under PressureBeijing says it will host "green Olympics" next month. But the water needed for the greenery is taken away from farmers in the provinces around Beijing.
Thousands of trees have been planted in Beijing, new parks have been built, and in the weeks until the opening ceremony on August 8th, 40 million flowers are being planted alongside roads and at the Olympic venues.
All that "greenery" needs water of course ? and that is usually in short supply in Beijing. The authorities have come up with a plan to transfer water from a neighbouring province, Hebei province. Locals there are angry. The plan also highlights much broader problems with China?s water policies.
Report: Ruth Kirchner
Climate Change Makes World?s Drying Wetlands "Carbon Bomb?The Pantanal wetland is one of the largest annually flooded savannas of the World. Cuiabá, which lies in Brazil, north of the Pantanal, is host city of the INTECOL International Wetland Conference. Wetlands are important carbon sinks. If they are destroyed further, experts fear a "carbon bomb" could explode.
?Pantanal? is Portuguese for ?swamp". The Pantanal wetland is situated in the triangle formed by Bolivia, Brazil and Paraguay. The town of Cuiabá borders the Brazilian part of the Pantanal. This year Cuiabá was chosen as host city for the INTECOL wetland conference.
Every four years scientists working in the field of wetland conservation come together to discuss the latest studies, conservation politics, and mechanisms to sustainably use wetlands. Dr Paulo Teixeira is the co-chair of the INTECOL. He calls wetlands a carbon bomb that could potentially have a dangerous impact on our climate if their destruction is not prevented.
Interview: Nina Haase
The Pantanal is one of the areas declared by global conservation group WWF to be a key-eco-region for the protection of the earth's biodiversity. It was one of the areas featured in a Deutsche Welle feature series on WWF Eco-regions, in which Living Planet talks to the people involved in conserving the Bolivian side of the Pantanal wetlands.
Report: Robin Cubie
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Thu, 17 Jul 2008 04:30:00 +0000
Planned river deepening causes concern in Germany -- Danish houting project hopes to save fish from extinction -- China wins permission to import African ivory -- How do you celebrate a green wedding? -- these stories and more in this edition of Living Planet.
Tune in via the live-stream or download Living Planet as a pocast. Send your comments to features@dw-world.de.Planned River Deepening Causes Concern in GermanyPlans to deepen the Elbe river in northern Germany are applauded by industry and criticised by environmentalists and the local population. Container ships would get better access to Hamburg, the country's biggest port. But what are the consequences for the people and the environment?
In Germany, the ruling coalition in the city of Hamburg -- the Christian Democrats and the Greens -- has made a decision to deepen the river Elbe between Hamburg and the North Sea. The idea is to give large container ships a better access to Hamburg?s harbour -- which is Germany?s biggest port and an important economic centre.
The Elbe has been deepened several times already. Dredging work is scheduled to begin in 2009. In light of these plans, many concerns about the environmental impact of the deepening have arisen -- not only from environmental groups, but also from those who fear that their life and work will be negatively affected by the outcomes of the dredging.
Living Planet speaks to organisations and individuals who are against the decision to deepen the Elbe river.
Report: Eva Wutke
Danish Houting Project Hopes to Save Fish From ExtinctionHouting used to be widespread in Denmark. Their numbers have decreased dramatically because most Danish rivers have been modified for commercial reasons. Now, these rivers are being re-meandered so that houting can return.
Houting, once widespread throughout the entire Wadden Sea, are now only found in the Danish coast of the Wadden Sea. Its numbers have gone down to a mere 7,000. Houting are facing extinction because most parts of Denmark?s river systems have been modified for drainage, hydropower stations or fish farms.
These modifications have a negative impact on the physical condition of the watercourses and the houting?s spawning grounds.
Now, land owners, fish farmers and the Danish Forest and Nature Agency are working towards ensuring the survival of the houting with an 13 million euros nature restoration project in Denmark -- The Houting Project, that is partly supported by the EU LIFE Fund.
Report: Cheryl Northey
China Wins Permission to Import African IvoryAt an international conference China won permission to import elephant ivory from Africa. But what does that mean for elephant populations? And how do wildlife conservation and trade go together?
The news broke this week: at an international conference on wildlife trade China won permission to import ivory from four African countries. Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe will be allowed to sell a combined total of 108 tonnes of ivory to the Asian countries.
The parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna, or CITES, are currently meeting in Geneva. The decision to make one-off sales of registered ivory stocks comes with strict conditions.
Living Planet speaks to Steven Broad from TRAFFIC, the joint international wildlife trade programme of conservation groups IUCN and WWF.
Interview: Nina Haase
How Do You Celebrate a Green Wedding?Many people are trying to live a green life these days, thinking about the consequences of everything they do and consume. The latest trend: environmentally-friendly weddings.
More and more people make sure their behaviour does as little harm to the environment as possible. But many of us still have parts of our life that we can't or won't give up, despite the environmental consequences.
One of the areas that you perhaps wouldn't expect people to compromise on is their wedding. In many countries your wedding day is a time where you don't worry about the cost ? nothing is too good for what's supposed to be a once in a lifetime celebration.
But there's a growing number of people who are worrying about the social and environmental impact of their weddings. Living Planet has been to meet one couple trying to keep their wedding as eco as they can.
Report: Martin Vogl
