Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 11 April 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# Researchers at the University of Pretoria’s Department of Zoology and Entomology, and the Agricultural Research Council, have discovered nine new trapdoor spider species in the Great Karoo. The university’s Shannon Brandt says the tally of trapdoor spider species known to be found in the Great Karoo alone is now at 23:

# Zero Carbon Charge has unveiled plans to install 120 solar photovoltaic electric truck charging stations along national highways. The new subsidiary, Zero Carbon Logistics, aims to revolutionise the transportation infrastructure in South Africa, creating the country’s first off-grid, green electric truck charging network. Co-founder Joubert Roux highlights the initial focus on the N3 freight route between Durban and Johannesburg. This move aligns with the nation’s Green Transport Strategy, targeting a five-percent reduction in transport-related carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.

# And, scientists warn the heatwave currently being experienced in Southeast Asia will continue for the rest of this month and most of next month. Home to more than 675-million people across eleven countries, the region has seen temperatures reach unprecedented levels. Malaysia has recorded two heat-related fatalities, including a three-year-old boy, while Vietnam has declared a state of emergency. The current heatwave has been attributed to a combination of factors which include human-induced climate change and the El Niño effect.

Stay tuned for more news………….