Tiger Population Halved in Past 25 Years

The World Wildlife Federation said there may be less than 1500 tigers left and, if actions were not taken soon, both the Sumatran Tiger ans the South China Tiger could be extinct within years.

A coordinator from Nepal said he believes there may be as few as 3500 tigers, as opposed to the estimated 5,000 - 7,000 in 1982. At the start of the 20^th-Century, there were thought to be around 40,000. The Nepalese coordinator suggested there may be as few as 1400 in India today - 60% less than in 2002.

Tigers in India are in danger from poor farmers, seeking to protect their livestock from the predators. Those in Indonesia are losing their territory to loggers. While those in China are being intentionally hunted to extinction, as their body parts are used in medicines and sexual "potions," and tiger penis is considered a delicacy.

© C Harris Lynn, 2008

First True "Green City" Begun

Masdar City is to be the first zero-carbon, zero-waste, car-free city. But opponents insist it will become a playground for the rich and is only a smokescreen to hide sponsoring nation, Abu Dhabi's, environmental irresponsibility.

Masdar City is an 8-year project that will cost over $20 billion. When finished, it will house 50,000 people and 1500 businesses. The city will be powered mostly by solar panels and transportation will be provided by pods on magnetic tracks. Water will be provided by solar-powered desalination plants and the design of the buildings will provide occupants with natural air conditioning from wind towers. The city will need ¹/₄ the amount of energy of communities of a similar size and 60% less water.

The project has the support of the WWF.

© C Harris Lynn, 2008

Freshwater Concerns Plague WWF

No, not the rasslin outfit (that changed its name to WWE); the World Wildlife Foundation. They have released a report indicating as many as ten of the world's most important rivers are in danger from such diverse factors as damming, pollution, biodiversity, and over extension as water sources. Rivers include the Nile and the Rio Grande, among others.

The WWF is urging world governments to take more consideration of freshwater sources - not just as a natural resource, but as a true environmental and human concern, as well as a matter of national security! These factors have led to a "river crisis" which could have great effects on much of humanity. The report was released in advance of World Water Day (the 22^nd).

Of course, this was drafted about 5 days ago, before the modem blew on my box...