Are you interested in exploring the impact of human activity on our planet? Canadian photographer Edward Burtynsky has captured the effects of human consumption and lifestyles on Earth for over 40 years, and his latest project, African Studies, is now on display at Flowers Gallery, Hong Kong until May 20, 2023. In an interview with BBC Culture, Burtynsky discusses his decade-long project researching and photographing in 10 African countries, including the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia, one of the hottest places on Earth. Read on to discover Burtynsky's insights on the African industrial revolution and the environmental consequences of globalization.

Are you passionate about protecting the environment and making a difference in the world? Do you want to be part of a global effort to combat climate change? If so, then a career in Climate Change Policy could be the perfect fit for you! As a Climate Change Policy professional, you will play a vital role in shaping policies and strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change. You will work with governments, non-profit organizations, and private companies to develop and implement policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability. One exciting aspect of this field is the opportunity to work on meaningful and high-profile projects. For example, you might help develop a plan to transition a city to 100% renewable energy, or work on a policy to reduce carbon emissions from transportation. You could also be involved in international negotiations to address climate change on a global scale. The duties of a Climate Change Policy professional can vary depending on your area of specialization. Some common areas of focus include energy policy, sustainable development, environmental law, and climate finance. You may also work with other professionals in related fields such as engineering, urban planning, and environmental science. To pursue a career in Climate Change Policy, a degree in environmental studies, public policy, or a related field is typically required. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Environmental Science, Sustainability Studies, and Public Policy. Additionally, a master's degree in a related field can be beneficial for career advancement. Helpful personal attributes for a career in Climate Change Policy include strong analytical skills, critical thinking, and the ability to work collaboratively with others. Effective communication skills are also essential for presenting complex information to a variety of audiences. The job prospects for Climate Change Policy professionals are promising, with increasing demand for skilled individuals in both the public and private sectors. Notable employers in this field include the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the World Wildlife Fund. Private companies such as Tesla and Google are also investing in sustainability and may have job opportunities in this field. In the long term, the outlook for a career in Climate Change Policy is positive, as the need for sustainable solutions to climate change continues to grow. With your passion for the environment and dedication to making a difference, you could be at the forefront of this important work.

Southeast Asia's most persistent environmental concern is transboundary haze pollution, caused by peatland forest fires mainly in Indonesia and Malaysia for land clearance. The haze cycle affects public health, business, and tourism, leading to socio-economic impacts, despite ASEAN's initiatives towards transboundary haze-free ASEAN by 2020. The Third Sector Organisations (TSOs) play an increasingly important role in enabling, coordinating and facilitating the efficient implementation of effective strategies to combat the issue.

Scotland leads the way in funding "loss and damage" projects, providing aid to developing countries for the impact of climate change. Malawi, with ties to Scotland, is already benefiting from the fund with a significant difference made in 10 areas. This model has been endorsed by Malawi's President, who believes it should be replicated by other countries. This article highlights the potential of smaller countries to make a meaningful impact on global issues.

In "Storms of My Grandchildren," Dr. James Hansen, the preeminent climate scientist, delivers a powerful and urgent message about the looming threat of global warming. With a stark warning that the planet is hurtling towards a climatic point of no return, Hansen calls for immediate and decisive action to phase out coal and achieve a goal of 350 parts per million of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This book is a must-read for anyone concerned about the future of our planet and the fate of future generations. Recommended for students of environmental science, policy makers, and anyone interested in the urgent issue of climate change, "Storms of My Grandchildren" provides a comprehensive and compelling overview of the science behind global warming and the political obstacles to addressing it. The book is an important resource for those seeking to understand the dire consequences of inaction, and the urgent need for a groundswell of public support to create a tipping point for change. Hansen's message is clear: we must act now to save our planet and our grandchildren from a catastrophic fate.

The Weather Makers by Tim Flannery paints a bleak picture of the future of our planet as we approach a global climatic tipping point. With vivid descriptions of the most powerful natural disasters in recent history, Flannery provides a riveting history of climate change and its impending impact on our world. But it's not all doom and gloom - Flannery offers specific suggestions for action that individuals and lawmakers can take to prevent a cataclysmic future. This urgent warning and call to arms is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of our planet. Recommended for environmentalists, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of our planet, The Weather Makers by Tim Flannery offers a comprehensive history of climate change and its impact on our world. With specific suggestions for action, Flannery's urgent warning and call to arms is relevant to anyone concerned about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and investing in renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal energy. The book is also valuable for those studying environmental science, meteorology, and related fields, as it offers a detailed analysis of the science behind climate change and its effects on our planet.

A 1°C temperature rise can cause a tenfold increase in displacement, and a 50mm reduction in rainfall per month can double it. Conflict is a major driver, but displacement itself doesn't cause further conflict. Discover the impact of climate change on vulnerable regions across African drylands and the urgent need for adaptation measures.

When natural disasters strike, it's not just the physical infrastructure that's affected, but also the social fabric of communities. How well a community responds to a disaster is largely dependent on their level of social cohesion and preparedness. In this write-up, we will explore the role of these two crucial factors in the face of natural disasters. Social Cohesion refers to the relationships, networks, and norms that hold a community together. A community with high social cohesion is better able to respond to disasters as they have established trust, cooperation, and a sense of shared responsibility among its members. On the other hand, a community with low social cohesion is likely to struggle in the aftermath of a disaster, as individuals may be more focused on their own self-interest rather than the common good. Social Preparedness, on the other hand, refers to a community's readiness to respond to a disaster. This includes having emergency plans in place, access to resources and support systems, and the ability to effectively communicate and coordinate during a disaster. Research shows that communities with high levels of social preparedness are better able to recover from disasters and experience fewer negative impacts. One example of a community with high social cohesion and preparedness is the city of Kobe, Japan. In 1995, Kobe was hit by a massive earthquake, but due to the city's strong social cohesion and preparedness, they were able to effectively respond and recover from the disaster. Kobe had a well-established disaster response plan, a strong community support system, and effective communication channels, which all contributed to their success. Leading academic researchers in the field, such as sociologist Eric Klinenberg and psychologist Irving Janis, have emphasized the importance of social cohesion and preparedness in disaster response. Klinenberg has shown that social cohesion can play a critical role in determining a community's ability to withstand and recover from disasters. Janis, on the other hand, has explored the role of groupthink in disaster response and how it can hinder effective decision making. In conclusion, the role of social cohesion and preparedness in dealing with natural disasters cannot be overstated. By understanding the importance of these factors and how they interact, we can work together to create more resilient and disaster-ready communities.

Are you passionate about the environment and the impact we have on it? Do you want to make a difference in the world and help shape policies that can positively impact the planet? Then studying Environmental Policy may be the perfect field for you! Environmental Policy is a fascinating and complex field of study that explores the relationship between humans and the environment. It encompasses a wide range of topics, from climate change and renewable energy to wildlife conservation and pollution control. As an Environmental Policy student, you will learn about the policies, laws, and regulations that govern environmental issues and how they impact society and the world around us. One of the most interesting aspects of studying Environmental Policy is the opportunity to work on real-world problems and make a tangible impact on the world. For example, students have worked on projects such as developing renewable energy policies, implementing sustainable agriculture practices, and protecting endangered species. There have been many exciting research and innovations in the field of Environmental Policy. For instance, the development of carbon credits, which allows companies to offset their carbon emissions by investing in renewable energy projects, has been a game-changer in the fight against climate change. Notable academic figures such as Rachel Carson, who wrote the influential book Silent Spring, have also made significant contributions to the field. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses such as Environmental Law, Environmental Economics, and Environmental Ethics. There are also opportunities for further specialization in areas such as Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, and Sustainable Development. Real-life examples of exciting specializations include working on projects such as developing green infrastructure or designing sustainable cities. The potential job opportunities for Environmental Policy graduates are vast and varied. Graduates can expect to find employment in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies. Some popular careers include Environmental Lawyer, Sustainability Consultant, and Environmental Policy Analyst. Notable employers in this field include the Environmental Protection Agency, the World Wildlife Fund, and the United Nations. To succeed in the field of Environmental Policy, students should have a passion for the environment and a desire to make a difference. Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills are also essential, as well as the ability to communicate complex issues effectively. Students with a background in science, engineering, or economics may find this field particularly appealing. In conclusion, studying Environmental Policy is an exciting and rewarding field that offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world. With a wide range of potential specializations and career opportunities, students can find a path that aligns with their passions and interests. So, if you're ready to make a difference in the world, Environmental Policy may be the perfect field for you!

Are you passionate about the environment and want to make a positive impact on the world? Then a career in Environmental Policy Analysis might just be the perfect fit for you! As an Environmental Policy Analyst, you'll be responsible for researching and analyzing environmental policies and regulations, and providing recommendations to governments, non-profit organizations, and private businesses. Your work will help shape environmental policies and ensure that they are effective in protecting our planet. One exciting aspect of this field is that it is constantly evolving and adapting to new challenges. For example, you might work on developing policies to combat climate change, protect endangered species, or reduce pollution in our oceans. Some of the typical duties of an Environmental Policy Analyst include conducting research on environmental issues, analyzing data and trends, writing reports and policy briefs, and communicating with stakeholders. You might specialize in a particular area, such as energy policy, water management, or wildlife conservation. To become an Environmental Policy Analyst, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as environmental science, public policy, or political science. Many universities offer specialized programs in environmental policy, such as the Bachelor of Environmental Policy and Management at the University of Adelaide in Australia, or the Environmental Policy and Management major at the University of Vermont in the United States. In addition to formal education, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in this field. These include strong analytical skills, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a passion for environmental issues. The job prospects for Environmental Policy Analysts are strong, with many opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Governments around the world are increasingly focused on environmental issues, and non-profit organizations and private businesses are also looking for experts to help them develop and implement effective environmental policies. Some notable employers in this field include the United Nations Development Programme, the Environmental Defense Fund, and the Natural Resources Defense Council. In addition, many large corporations such as Google and Walmart are hiring Environmental Policy Analysts to help them meet their sustainability goals. So if you're looking for a career that allows you to make a positive impact on the world and work on some of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, consider becoming an Environmental Policy Analyst. The opportunities are endless, and the rewards are immeasurable!

Did you know that human activity can cause earthquakes? In fact, they're becoming more common due to drilling, mining, and other subsurface activities. For example, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake in Spain in 2011 was caused by farmers using underground water for irrigation, which caused a shift in the fault line. The oil and gas industry, geothermal power developers, and dam builders have also caused man-made earthquakes. Learning about the science behind earthquakes is not only intellectually fascinating, but it can also help us understand how to avoid making the problem worse. Earthquakes are one of the most catastrophic natural disasters, and there is currently no way to predict when they will strike. As students, we can take an active role in learning about the impact of human activity on the environment and how we can make a positive difference.

Did you know that wetlands are vital sources of water purification, groundwater recharge, and carbon storage? A new Stanford-led study published in Nature finds that global losses of wetlands have likely been overestimated, enabling more informed plans to protect or restore ecosystems crucial for human health and livelihoods. While wetlands remain threatened in many parts of the world, the researchers combed through thousands of records of wetland drainage and land-use changes in 154 countries, mapping the distribution of drained and converted wetlands onto maps of present-day wetlands to get a picture of what the original wetland area might have looked like in 1700.

The universe began with the Big Bang 13.8 billion years ago, and gradually, more complex things appeared. Our Sun and solar system appeared about 4.5 billion years ago, and by 4 billion years ago, life had emerged on Earth. Humans evolved just about 200,000 years ago, and they have become the dominant species on Earth. The future of the oceans, climate, and most other species on Earth, including our own descendants, depends on what humans do in the next few decades. We are at a turning point in history, and we must either lead the biosphere towards a flourishing future or to catastrophe. The good news is that we understand the science, and we have many of the technologies needed to build a sustainable future. The challenge now is the political technology. Governments and peoples must collaborate to avoid the many dangers we face today. Learning about the universe, the history of life on Earth, and the challenges we face today can help us understand the importance of collaboration and inspire us to take action towards a prosperous future.

Trees are not only majestic but also crucial for biodiversity and reducing climate change. However, we are cutting them down at an alarming rate. Planting trees can help capture carbon dioxide and cancel out CO2 emissions. In fact, planting 1.2 trillion trees could capture up to 100 gigatonnes of CO2, and safeguard habitats that otherwise get cut down. Trees also offer a habitat to all kinds of fungi and insects, and studies have shown that they can lower stress and make people happier. Planting a single tree can be a powerful symbolic act, but we need to make big changes to the way we live and reduce the number of trees we cut down in the first place. Learning about the importance of trees and taking the necessary actions to protect them can have a positive impact on the environment and our mental health.

Climate change anxiety is a relatively new term, but the fear of the future and the trauma it may bring is not. We are facing an existential fear about our survival, and it is important to understand our impact as human beings on the planet. It is normal to feel anxious about the effects of climate change, but this anxiety can also be a way of digesting the information. As students, it is essential to explore this topic and understand the key concepts of climate change, its impact on our world, and the part we can play in mending the part of the world that is within our reach. Learning about this topic not only benefits us intellectually but also practically as it helps us to make informed decisions about our future and the world we want to live in. Let's embrace the challenge and become part of the solution.

Imagine a world without humans - what would happen next? This thought experiment highlights the interconnectedness of our world and the impact humans have on it. Without our intervention, nature would take over and endangered species would have a chance to thrive. However, the world would never forget us as we would leave our mark. Learning about the environment and the impact humans have on it is not only intellectually stimulating, but it also has practical benefits. By understanding our impact on the planet, we can make informed decisions and take action to ensure a sustainable future. So, let's explore and discover the fascinating world of environmental science and make a positive impact on the world we live in.

Climate change is a pressing issue that affects us all. Even a small change in temperature can have a significant impact on our planet, and it's up to us to take action. By cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half within a decade and being carbon neutral by mid-century, we can prevent the world from warming past 1.5 degrees. This seemingly arbitrary number is actually hugely significant as keeping global warming below 1.5 degrees will allow us to preserve precious rainforests, polar bears, and coral reefs, slow the rise of sea levels, and avoid drought and flooding. It's not impossible, but it will take time and investment. However, the benefits are worth it. If we don't act, we face a world of flood, fire, and conflict. The choice is ours, and every bit of warming, every year, and every choice matters. Let's choose a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.

Jeans have a fascinating history, from their origins as sturdy workwear to their current status as fashion icons. However, the manufacturing process for a single pair of jeans emits over 33 kilograms of carbon, contributes to environmental degradation, and often involves poor labor practices. As a student, you can learn about the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry and take action to reduce your own impact. Buying used jeans, washing them less frequently, and choosing brands that prioritize sustainability and fair labor practices are all steps you can take. By exploring these issues, you can become a more informed and responsible consumer, and contribute to a more just and sustainable world.

As demand for materials like copper and lithium skyrockets with the push for clean energy, companies are eyeing the ocean floor for a new source. But what are the potential consequences for marine life and ecosystems? Learn about the growing controversy and the UN's efforts to regulate deep-sea mining in this thought-provoking article.

Over 171 trillion pieces of plastic now pollute our oceans, killing marine life and posing a threat to human health. Without action, this number could triple by 2040. Learn about the causes and solutions to this crisis, and how you can make a difference.