ecosystems

Estonia leads the biennial Yale University climate scorecard, followed by Luxembourg and the UK. The US ranks 27th, with the index highlighting global progress in reducing pollution but lagging climate crisis action.

Extreme heat in Europe is affecting birds and wildlife, with experts noting risks of heat illness. Birds adapt through behaviors like gaping and seeking shade, but prolonged heat pushes many species to their limits. People can help by providing water and shaded areas to support wildlife during heatwaves.

A $942 billion biodiversity financing gap is forcing investors and governments to rethink how ecosystems are valued, funded, and accounted for.

Green groups accuse the Albanese government of weakening a proposal to protect Australia’s threatened species and ecosystems. The national environmental standards, a key part of nature law reforms passed in November, were criticized for undermining their intended purpose of reversing biodiversity decline.

The spotted lanternfly is expected to invade parts of the US by the millions, threatening crops and ecosystems. Several states are at risk, prompting calls for immediate action to control the invasive species.

A council in Cornwall has proposed using glyphosate to control roadside weeds, sparking public outrage due to concerns about potential harm to humans and the environment. The herbicide was largely phased out in the region over the past decade amid similar concerns.