This week’s environment and conservation news stories rolled into one.
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India’s hard-to-abate sectors are not walking the talk on their renewable energy goals, report finds
An analysis of energy consumption by heavy industries reveals that a mere 6% was fulfilled by renewable sources.
Baby snakes with toxic traits
A new study on the venom development of two clinically important snakes finds Russell’s viper neonates produce venoms that are twice as potent towards mammals, compared to the ones produced by adults.
Misinformation about Russell’s viper stokes incidents of snake killing in Assam
False information about the Russell’s viper in Assam has incited fear and aggression, causing at least three instances of snake killings.
Polluting leather industry adopts sustainable practices to reduce environmental footprint
Kanpur’s tanneries are adopting innovative sustainable practices, such as Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems and water recycling, to reduce their environmental footprint.
Brick kilns embrace zigzag design to cut pollution and boost efficiency
Since 2016, the Bihar state government has been pushing for kilns to adopt the zigzag design that helps in reducing pollution.
[Book review] A know-it-all book on the cat with black ears
In a new book “Caracal: An intimate history of a mysterious cat”, authors Dharmendra Khandal and Ishan Dhar talk about the cat’s biology, ecology, human history, status in India, habitat and distribution in detail.
Looking for nutritional gold in wild greens
The traditional practice of foraging for wild edibles has historically ensured food and nutritional security for forest-dependent indigenous communities such as the Soligas. Studies highlight the economic benefits of this practice, in addition to its use of many undocumented but nutritionally-rich plants for food and medicinal purposes.
Changing patterns in precipitation and temperature affect Kashmir’s ecosystem
Accelerated glacier melting is a result of higher temperatures, which also impacts ecosystems and access to freshwater resources.
[Interview] On using comics to unpack agricultural concepts
A new graphic novel, ‘Food & Farming’, explores issues in India’s food and agriculture systems and how they affect stakeholders.
[Commentary] A cruise on the Narmada river: Is it legal, just or justified?
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department’s cruise project on the Narmada river faces strong opposition due to potential ecological disruption and impacts on local fishing communities.
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