Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 1 July 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment says a powerful cancer-fighting compound has been discovered in deep-sea waters off the south coast. The compound, known as Cephalostatin-one, is extracted from a rare marine worm and shows strong potential in treating cancers like leukemia by selectively targeting cancer cells. The discovery is expected to boost investment in marine research, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. Minister Dion George says the breakthrough proves the value of protecting South Africa’s oceans, not only for conservation but also for health innovation and job creation.

# KwaZulu-Natal will now be able to access Western Cape resources during major natural disasters. This follows after a new memorandum of understanding was signed between the two provinces. KZN Public Works MEC Martin Meyer and Western Cape’s Tertuis Simmers signed the agreement in Musgrave to strengthen cooperation and protect key infrastructure from floods. KZN continues to face challenges repairing storm-damaged infrastructure, while the Western Cape has successfully rebuilt flood-damaged structures within weeks, reconnecting affected communities and restoring essential services.

# And finally: A new Yale study has revealed how urban wildlife can adapt to city life by analysing DNA from soil in 21 Detroit parks. Researchers detected 23 mammal species and found seasonal shifts, with animals clustering more in winter and dispersing in summer. Larger parks supported greater biodiversity, while human presence shaped species patterns. The study highlights the value of environmental DNA for tracking wildlife in cities. It recommends the expansion of green spaces and wildlife corridors to help protect urban ecosystems.

Stay tuned for more news………….