Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 21 November 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# Environmental organisation WaterCAN says it is concerning that the criminal case against fuel giant Sasol continues to drag on following another postponement. Sasol is accused of allegedly discharging water contaminated with chemicals including vanadium into a tributary of the Vaal River. WaterCAN’s Ferrial Adam, says while the court case is underway, apportioning responsibility for stopping the pollution and ensuring the clean-up seems to be on hold:

# Malawi has inaugurated its first wildlife forensic laboratory, aimed at bolstering the fight against wildlife traffickers. The project, supported by the Edinburgh-based TRACE Wildlife Forensics Network in partnership with TRAFFIC, focuses on the latest evidence-collection and analysis techniques. The lab will provide training for local scientists to enhance capacity to prosecute offenders. National Parks and Wildlife director, Brighton Kumchedwa, says antelope and pangolin are most at risk. The partnership aims to strengthen capabilities in crime scene investigation, evidence management, forensic analysis, and effective court presentation.

# And finally: The United Nations’ annual Emissions Gap Report contains a stark warning that the world is on course for a three-degree-Celsius global heating by the end of this century. The assessment precedes the Cop28 climate summit taking place in Dubai next week. The report underscores that current carbon-cutting policies are insufficient, potentially resulting in further global warming beyond pre-industrial levels unless governments intensify climate action. UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres emphasises the looming risk of reaching critical points of no return such as the melting of ice sheets.

Stay tuned for more news………….