Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 6 October 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# Fifteen finalists have been announced for the fifth Earthshot Prize Awards. The annual competition, launched by Britain’s Prince William back in 2020, recognises innovators coming up with solutions to the world’s most pressing environmental problems. Among this year’s finalists are a breakthrough microplastics filter, the world’s first fully upcycled skyscraper, and the boldest reforestation and ocean protection initiatives ever. William says the finalists are moving the world towards achieving vital environmental goals:

# Around 350 hikers, who were stranded by a blizzard on the Tibetan slopes of Mount Everest, have been guided to safety. This comes after heavy snowfall and rain pummelled the Himalayas over the weekend. Officials say around 200 hikers, who remain stranded close to the eastern Kangshung face of Everest, are in contact with rescuers and are due to arrive in the small township of Qudang in stages. In neighbouring Nepal, at least 47 people have died since Friday after heavy rains triggered landslides and floods

# And the City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department says it is stepping up efforts to keep beaches safe and welcoming ahead of the busy summer season. A beach clean-up was carried out last week at the coastal resort Maiden’s Cove, nestled between the blue flag beaches of Clifton’s fourth beach and Camp’s Bay. Mayoral committee member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham, says Cape Town’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world and offer various biologically diverse habitats:

Stay tuned for more news………….