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In an unusual development, a teenager in British Columbia has become the first person in <keyword id="19896882" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="canada" source="keywords">Canada</keyword> to test positive for <keyword id="95867" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bird-flu" source="Orion">bird flu</keyword>, the provincial health department announced. The youth is currently receiving treatment in a children's hospital for the <keyword id="23932297" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="H5-avian-influenza" source="keywords">H5 avian influenza</keyword> strain, with the source of infection and potential contacts under active investigation. According to British Columbia Health Officer Dr Bonnie Henry, the infection likely came from an animal source. "This is a rare event," she noted. "We are conducting a thorough investigation to fully understand the source of exposure here in BC." <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="109603354" title="Bird flu could jump to humans any day. A former surgeon general says it feels like 2020 again." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Bird flu, most commonly found in wild birds and poultry, can sometimes infect humans through close contact or contaminated environments. Scientists have voiced growing concerns as avian flu has recently been detected in mammals, and a recent outbreak in US cattle has added to fears. Although human infections remain rare, experts worry that an increased rate of transmission could eventually lead to a virus mutation that allows human-to-human spread. The Canadian case comes shortly after another unusual incident in the United States, where a person in Missouri tested positive for bird flu without any known exposure to infected animals. While cases among farmworkers are known, these isolated incidents without clear animal sources add to the need for vigilance. Despite the isolated cases, there has been no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission of bird flu to date, which would otherwise signify a more serious public health risk. For now, health authorities in Canada are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further spread. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114819490" title="Bird flu was detected in a pig, and it could be a tipping point threatening more human transmission" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

Bird flu alert in Canada as teen tests positive; officials launch investigation

Washington, DC [US], May 17 (ANI): The <keyword id="19929596" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="US-military" source="keywords">US military</keyword> warned that China is moving forward with developing <keyword id="21695791" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="floating-nuclear-reactors" source="keywords">floating nuclear reactors</keyword> in the <keyword id="19911056" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="South-China-Sea" source="keywords">South China Sea</keyword> to hold up its claim to the disputed maritime territory, a development, which analysts have stressed would pose risks to the environment, reported Voice of America (VOA). According to analysts, the plan to build ships with mobile nuclear power sources would raise tensions with its neighbours and pose risks to the environment. Chinese media reports described the <keyword id="21696232" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="marine-nuclear-power-platforms" source="Orion">marine nuclear power platforms</keyword> as small plants inside ships that would act as mobile "power banks" at sea for stationary facilities and other ships, VOA reported. However, Beijing had suspended the project a year ago over safety and effectiveness concerns, according to the South China Morning Post. But this month, the outgoing commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command and State Department Admiral John Aquilino said that China is still building the floating reactors to supply power to disputed islands, the Washington Post reported. Although the US officials said that the deployment of such reactors would take several years, Admiral John Aquilino said their development would undermine regional security and stability, VOA reported. Following this, last week, the Philippines echoed those concerns. Philippines National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said that China would use its floating reactors to power military bases it has built on artificial islands, including those within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. He added that China's nuclear plants would further militarize disputed areas of the South China Sea. "Anything that supports their military presence in those islands is technically a threat to our national security and against our interests," he said, adding that Australia and the US would be among Manila's allies conducting joint patrols in the South China Sea, as reported by VOA. According to Beijing's claims, they have control over almost the entire South China Sea, putting it in dispute with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. Moreover, China has already built artificial islands with airport runways to strengthen its claims. The analysts said that Beijing's floating reactors would not only strengthen its military presence in the area but also give it an excuse to extend its reach through security actions, VOA reported. Song Yanhui, director of the International Law Society of the Republic of China, Taiwan, said that the current military security zone for China's artificial islands is a radius of 500 meters (1,640 feet), which means, other aircraft and ships that enter this radius can be legitimately expelled. Song continued that if China deploys a floating nuclear power plant in the South China Sea, it could use the excuse of protecting the environment from radioactive pollution to drive away ships from a larger area or to take defensive measures. For Beijing, he said, "It kills two birds with one stone. It is a win-win strategy. It can strengthen its military presence, civilian use and claim to sovereignty." But the potential for radiation leaks is a real concern, analysts said, reported VOA. Pankaj Jha, dean of research at the School of International Affairs of India's Jindal Global University, highlighted that China's lack of experience in operating such floating reactors could spell disaster. "It is a threat because it will contaminate water and also surrounding areas," he said. "Any radiation leak would make the island uninhabitable and might also impact fishermen from the South China Sea." In the event of a conflict with China, the analysts further noted that the floating reactors could also become military targets, reported VOA. China has deployed radars, anti-ship and anti-aircraft missiles, and fighter jets, among other weapons, on the disputed territories of Mischief Reef, Subi Reef and Fiery Cross, the three largest artificial islands in the Spratly Islands. Richard Fisher, senior fellow with the International Assessment and Strategy Center, stressed that floating nuclear power plants could also one day extend China's weapons capabilities. "If they were protected, these nuclear power plants could also potentially power future energy weapon devices," Fisher said. "Laser weapons that could knock down missiles and aircraft or very powerful microwave weapons could also disable missiles and aircraft that would get within their range." Notably, China is not the first country to think of building floating nuclear reactors. The US took the lead in proposing the concept in 1970 but due to safety concerns, they did not quickly pursue development, reported VOA. Meanwhile, Russia is the only country that has brought a floating nuclear power plant to fruition, with the Akademik Lomonosov plant producing electricity and heating since 2020 from a harbour in Pevek, a town in the Arctic Circle. Earlier in November last year, the International Atomic Energy Agency at a forum in Vienna expressed concern about the development of floating nuclear reactors, particularly when they cross international borders or operate in international waters. "The IAEA is working with our member states to determine what further guidance and standards might be needed to ensure the safety of floating nuclear power plants," IAEA Deputy Director General Lydie Evrard said in a press release. The IAEA further noted that Canada, China, Denmark, South Korea, Russia and the US are each working on marine-based "small modular reactor designs."

China plans to float nuclear reactors in disputed South China Sea; Analysts see it 'risky for environment'

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Mississippi hunters just broke the state record for the largest alligator ever caught.</li><li>These hunting programs help control alligator populations and fund state wildlife agencies.</li></ul>Hunters in Mississippi just <a href="https://www.insider.com/800-pound-monster-alligator-caught-mississippi-state-record-soup-kitchens-2023-8">caught an 800 pound alligator,</a> the largest ever recorded in the state. This has drawn attention to the state's alligator hunting program, which may provide more benefits for the reptiles than you might think. There are similar hunting programs in <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/moving-california-austin-texas-10-things-i-wish-i-knew-2021-1">Texas</a>, Arkansas, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-60000-pounds-of-crawfish-are-harvested-daily-in-louisiana-2023-8">Louisiana</a>, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina.These US programs help control the wild populations of alligators, which have been increasing<a href="https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Reptiles/American-Alligator" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> since they were listed as endangered in 1967,</a> and the sales of the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/python-huntress-explains-what-her-job-is-like-2023-7">hunting licenses</a> fund local wildlife protection, Tate Watkins, a research fellow at the Property and Environment Research Center, told Insider. That feeds back into <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/habitat-highways-help-species-escape-climate-change-2016-6">protecting alligators natural habitats</a>. "Regulated, sustainable hunting plays a huge role in wildlife conservation," he said. <div type="image" title="An alligator populates the Wakodahatchee Wetlands on June 27, 2022 in Delray Beach, Florida" height="4725" width="6975" msid="103445089" hostid="261"></div>Alligator hunting licenses come with strict stipulations about where a person can hunt, during what weeks of the season, and what <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/huge-alligator-was-caught-eating-a-whole-turtle-2015-3">size gator</a> they're allowed to catch. That way, officials can keep track of what is happening to populations in different habitats across the state. Because of this system, state officials were able to track the 776 alligators that were <a href="https://www.mdwfp.com/media/302969/2021-alligator-hunting-season-report.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">harvested in Mississipp</a>i in 2021. Also, the licenses that hunters purchased to hunt those gators generated about $293,700 in revenue for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks.<a href="https://www.mdwfp.com/license/lifetime-license/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">According to the department's website</a>, those dollars get placed into a Wildlife Endowment Fund, which pays for the management, enforcement, research, and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/scientists-use-artificial-intelligence-tools-to-help-save-wildlife-2022-10">education of the local wildlife.</a> Watkins said the bulk of state agency's funding comes from these licenses. <div type="image" title="Four men pose holding an 800-pound alligator they caught in Mississippi." height="3024" width="4032" msid="103445093" hostid="261"></div><h2>A balancing act</h2>There is a delicate balance between the health of a habitat and the number of animals in it. A famous example of this tension played out in <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/yellowstone-flooding-means-job-housing-cuts-for-seasonal-workers-2022-8">Yellowstone National Park</a> when wolves <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/wolf-restoration.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">were hunted to extinction</a>. This allowed other species, that would normally be controlled by the wolves, like elk, to balloon in size.The elk <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/cyclesprocesses.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">overgrazed the park's</a> Aspen and Willow trees, and the ecosystem began to change. But scientists pushed for wolves to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/yellowstone-needs-more-beavers-2015-7">be reintroduced in 1995</a> things began to balance out. Though the effects of the reintroduction are still playing out, scientists have said bringing back the wolves benefited raven, eagle, beetle, wolverine, magpie, coyote, and bear populations, according to <a href="https://www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/wildlife/wolf-reintroduction-changes-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yellowstone Park</a>. So in the case of gators, which have had population swings over past decades, officials are careful to take note, Watkins said. They play an important role in their ecosystem, creating habitat for fish with the holes they dig, and managing populations of prey animals, biologists Mike Heithaus and Maureen Donnelly <a href="https://phys.org/news/2016-06-alligators.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told Phys.org</a>. <h2><div type="image" title="gator" height="600" width="800" msid="103445095" hostid="261"></div>Keeping good public relations</h2>Another factor that plays into controlling gator populations is the fact that the more gators there are, the more likely they are to spill out of their natural habitats and come into contact with humans, Watkins said. There is no shortage of news stories about alligators <a href="https://www.insider.com/cambodian-farmer-killed-40-crocodiles-2023-5">harming humans</a>, <a href="https://www.insider.com/alligator-louisiana-house-intruder-2023-7">squaring off with pets</a>, and generally <a href="https://www.insider.com/video-massive-alligator-florida-golf-course-naples-2020-11">being a nuisance</a>.It's best for both the alligators and humans to keep their populations separate, at least from a public relations standpoint, Watkins said. People don't tend to take too kindly to being confronted by the dinosaurs. In his experience, Watkins has seen hunters tend to keep all these concepts in mind when they sign up for a license. He said that it may seem counterintuitive, but many of the people who are out there hunting have a deep respect and care for the animals they are seeking.Amongst those hunters, he's observed a universal, "ethos, of essentially wanting to contribute to that kind of larger conservation effort."

Hunting alligators is actually good for the environment and people

<ul><li>The first G20 environment meeting under G20 <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword> Presidency will be held from February 9-11 in Bengaluru.</li><li>Officials said that four meetings of the Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) are scheduled to be hosted by the <keyword id="151298" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="ministry-of-environment" source="Orion">Ministry of Environment</keyword>, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&amp;CC).</li></ul>New Delhi, The first G20 environment meeting under G20 India Presidency will be held from February 9-11 in Bengaluru. Officials said that four meetings of the Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) are scheduled to be hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&amp;CC). The discussions at ECSWG will focus on the agenda 'Promotion of Blue Economy along with Coastal Sustainability', 'Restoration of Degraded Lands and Ecosystems' and 'Enhancement of Biodiversity' and 'Strengthening of Circular Economy'. India will be holding the Presidency of G20 for one year till November 30, 2023. The forum will bring together the G20 member countries, guest countries and international organisations invited by India. Through the Sherpa Track, 13 <keyword id="442252" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="working-groups" source="Orion">Working Groups</keyword> and two initiatives will meet under India's Presidency to discuss priorities and provide recommendations. Environment, Climate &amp; Sustainability is one of the working groups under the Sherpa Track. Leading to the first meeting in Bengaluru, Mysuru Zoo in coordination with Central Zoo Authority organised a Two-Day National Conference for Zoo Directors of India on January 18 and 19. Officials said that the conference mainly focused on "Master Planning and Building the National Capacity for species Management &amp; Conservation Breeding." In this conference, 59 participants from 25 states and a union territory participated. It was inaugurated by the Mayor of Mysuru City corporation and succeeded in drawing attention to conservation practices. The G20 delegates are scheduled to visit the Kalkere Arboretum and Bannerghatta Biological Park at Bengaluru. At Kalkere, the delegates will have an opportunity to visualise and experience four predominant forest ecosystems of Karnataka state. The <keyword id="6432810" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="state-forest-department" source="Orion">State Forest Department</keyword> will also showcase the forest restoration models adopted in these ecosystems and the successful revival of faunal biodiversity in these areas. The Bannerghatta Biological Park will showcase the state-of-art butterfly park and animal safaris to the delegates. The Karnataka Forest Department will also highlight the flagship ecotourism model, the <keyword id="16192181" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="jungle-lodges-resort" source="Orion">Jungle Lodges Resort</keyword>, which is extremely popular for nature lovers, globally. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/for-the-first-time-in-history-an-ai-bot-will-reportedly-defend-a-human-in-court/articleshow/96785418.cms">For the first time in history, an AI bot will reportedly defend a human in court</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/these-audio-setting-tweaks-can-make-music-sound-better-on-spotify/articleshow/96876010.cms">These audio setting tweaks can make music sound better on Spotify</a>

G20's ECSWG to focus on promotion of Blue Economy alongwith Coastal Sustainability

<ul><li>India plans to start using 20% <keyword id="440140" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="Ethanol-blended-petrol" source="Orion">ethanol blended petrol</keyword> from 2025.</li><li>Currently, most petrol pumps give 10% ethanol blended petrol.</li><li>Economists argue that ethanol production in the future will have to rely more on maize and less on sugarcane and rice. </li></ul> At present, when you go to fill petrol, the petrol you get is mixed with 10% ethanol and the government is looking to double this by 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi rolled out 20% ethanol-blended petrol in select gas stations in 11 States and Union Territories earlier this year as part of a programme to increase use of biofuels to cut emissions as well as dependence on foreign exchange-draining imports. First, how is ethanol made? Most of the fuel ethanol produced around the world is made by fermenting the sugar in the starches of grains such as corn, sorghum, and barley, and the sugar in sugar cane and sugar beets, as per the US Energy Information Administration. <keyword id="13884282" type="General" weightage="60" keywordseo="what-is-ethanol-blending" source="Orion">What is ethanol blending</keyword> and how does it help? <keyword id="146615" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="ethanol-blending" source="Orion">Ethanol blending</keyword> is nothing but blended motor fuel containing ethyl alcohol that is at least 99% pure and is derived from agricultural products, and blended exclusively with petrol. An ethanol blended petrol helps on two counts. One, ethanol is a biofuel and so it is good for the environment. Second, it helps India as a country to cut down on its crude oil import bills. Ethanol and the environment Grain-based ethanol cuts greenhouse gas emissions significantly by 44 to 52% compared to gasoline, according to the US Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory. A report by Renewable Fuels Association says that researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Tufts have concluded that today's corn ethanol offers an average GHG reduction of 46% versus gasoline. Emerging technologies promise to boost that reduction to near 70% in the next few years, according to USDA. So, what is the government’s plan? The government has said it plans to push up the current 10% ethanol blended petrol to 20% in the next two years across India. This work is happening in two phases. In the first phase, 15 cities will be covered and then it will be expanded throughout the country in the next two years. Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal has said that the government is confident of achieving its target by 2025. Is E-20 petrol available currently? E-20 (petrol blendend with 20% ethanol) was initially available in only 84 petrol pumps in the country. A media report says that it is currently available in close to 1,000 stations. It is noteworthy here that the price of ethanol blended petrol isn’t different for the consumer. Challenges being faced by the industry Currently, most of the ethanol being produced uses either sugarcane on rice as its raw material. Both these crops are water intensive. A month back, when rice prices shot up, The Indian ethanol manufacturers faced a tough time as rice supply was stopped to the industry. This has led to agricultural economists like Ashok Gulati to advocate relying on maize as a policy. Price hike demand accepted The government hiked ethanol rates a month back after the industry demanded a hike arguing without proper returns there cannot be additional investments to boost supply. Now, the purchase price of ethanol produced from rice has been increased by ₹4.75/litre to ₹60.29/litre and for ethanol produced from maize, price has been hiked by ₹6.01/litre to ₹62.36/litre. The reliance on sugar… The Niti Aayog estimates that India will require 1,400 crore litres of ethanol to achieve its target of 20% blending by 2025. This, in turn, means that there is a big jump required in the production of sugar. A report by the Hindu states that out of the 550 crore litres of ethanol that has been produced since November last year, 450 crore litres came from the sugar industry. What about falling sugar production and its impact? Erratic rainfall in the 2023 monsoon season means that sugar production in India will be hit. In fact, a report by Reuters says that India, the second biggest producer of sugar globally, is considering banning sugar exports for the first time in seven years to fight the deficit. Moreover, sugar prices in the country have jumped by more than 3% in a fortnight to their highest level in six years. Concerns about sugar production... The Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) has forecasted a 3.3% production fall in the current sugar year to 31.7 mn tonnes. It is roughly estimated that the country consumes 27.5mn tonnes leaving only a surplus of approximately 4 mn tonnes, as per a Systematix Institutional Equities report. This will hit ethanol production and thus the push to shift to maize by the government. How have the <keyword id="97985" type="General" weightage="40" keywordseo="sugar-stocks" source="Orion">sugar stocks</keyword> fared? Sugar stocks have had a mixed bag performance for most of the past year. While Balrampur Chini is up 3.4% and Dalmia Bharat Sugar is up almost 10% year-to-date, Shree Renuka Sugars and Dwarikesh Sugar have slipped over 7%.

Explained: What is ethanol blending, impact on environment and challenges faced by India

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Harmful algae blooms can endanger aquatic wildlife and human swimmers.</li><li>Blooms may appear as greenish scum or brightly colored patches like spilled paint.</li></ul>As lakes across the country sprout foul-smelling, greenish mats of aquatic bacteria, <keyword id="11894571" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="health" source="Orion">health</keyword> officials are warning residents about the risks of <keyword id="14396573" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="toxic-algae" source="Orion">toxic algae</keyword> poisoning.Most algae and similar single-celled organisms are harmless or even beneficial to marine ecosystems. However, algae can "bloom" rapidly under certain conditions, endangering wildlife and making it <a href="https://www.insider.com/4-signs-of-unsafe-swimming-water-toxic-algae-stomach-viruses-2022-7">unsafe for people to swim</a>.Blooms of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, have been reported at <a href="https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/harmful-algae-sample-taken-lady-bird-lake/269-f14a5faa-1e0c-45af-a921-bf7aea209b56">Lady Bird Lake</a> in Austin, Texas; <a href="https://www.record-bee.com/2022/07/05/news-brief-21/">Lake Pillsbury</a> in Northern California; and <a href="https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2022/06/29/health-department-issues-blue-green-algae-bloom-health-alert-for-doctors-lake-at-camp-echockotee/">Doctors Lake</a> in Clay County, Florida. Freshwater algae blooms are typically greenish in color, while saltwater algae species may dye the coastlines red, earning the name <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/redtide.html">"red tides."</a>Swimming in or near contaminated water can put humans at risk of toxic algae poisoning, although animals are more likely to be affected. Symptoms of algae poisoning may include rashes, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing, or wheezing.More than 300 emergency room visits were related to exposure to harmful algae blooms between 2017 and 2019, according to a report from the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/habs/general.html">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a>.Environmental researchers have <a href="https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2021/09/toxic-algae-exposure-leads-more-300-emergency-room-visits-three-years">expressed concern</a> that harmful algal blooms are already becoming more common due to the climate crisis. As blooms continue to thrive, it's only a matter of time before reports of algae-associated illness spike as well.<h2>Algal blooms may produce toxins and harmful gasses</h2>For an algae population to grow out of control, it needs warm, slow-moving water that is rich with nutrients. <keyword id="11896311" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="climate-change" source="Orion">Climate change</keyword> has created the "perfect" conditions for algae to bloom, according to the <a href="https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2021/09/toxic-algae-exposure-leads-more-300-emergency-room-visits-three-years">Environmental Working Group</a>.Warming temperatures and rising carbon dioxide levels both make waters more hospitable to all species of algae and cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae). According to the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/nutrientpollution/climate-change-and-harmful-algal-blooms">Environmental Protection Agency</a>, cycles of drought and extreme rainfall also increase the risk of runoff, filling waters with extra nutrients that cause algae to bloom.Not all algal blooms are harmful, but public health officials generally recommend staying out of funky-looking water. Certain types of algae are toxic to humans and animals, while others can deplete the water's oxygen supply or release harmful gas into the <keyword id="11901561" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="environment" source="Orion">environment</keyword>, according to the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/habs/general.html">CDC</a>.Humans can get sick from toxic algae if they swim in or around contaminated water, or if they consume food or water that's been contaminated. Small fish and shellfish in affected areas ingest toxins from algae, and those toxins may travel up the food chain.<h2>Toxic algae poisoning may cause stomach pain and breathing problems</h2>Symptoms of harmful algae-related illness vary depending on whether contaminated water was ingested, accidentally inhaled, or contacted the skin.CDC surveillance from 2017 to 2019 found that respiratory illness was more common than upset stomachs, rashes, and other symptoms of toxic algae poisoning. However, researchers noted that cases where people reported coughing, congestion, and trouble breathing may have been connected to a large-scale <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/hazards/hab/florida-2018.html">"red tide" along the Gulf of Mexico</a> in 2018.Algae-associated illness has been more pronounced in small children who play in shallow waters and need less exposure to get sick. According to the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/habs/data/2019-ohhabs-data-summary.html">CDC</a>, nearly half of people ill from algae exposures in 2019 were younger than eight years old.

Toxic algae blooms are growing on lakes and beaches across the US, and health departments warn they can poison kids and kill pets

Almost the entire global population, or 99 per cent, breathes air that exceeds air quality limits set by the <keyword id="43588" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="world-health-organization" source="Orion">World Health Organization</keyword> (WHO), the UN <keyword id="6354750" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="health" source="Orion">health</keyword> agency said in a statement. Even though a record number of more than 6,000 cities in 117 countries now monitor air quality, people in those cities still breathe in dangerous levels of fine particles and nitrogen dioxide, with people in low and middle-income countries suffering the highest exposures, WHO added on Monday. The findings prompted WHO to call for a reduction in fossil fuel use and other concrete measures to lower air pollution levels, <keyword id="106387" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="xinhua-news-agency" source="Orion">Xinhua news agency</keyword> reported. "High fossil fuel prices, energy security and the urgency of addressing the twin health challenges of air pollution and climate change, underscore the pressing need to move faster towards a world that is much less dependent on fossil fuels," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Particulate matter, especially PM2.5, is able to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and respiratory disorders, the statement said, adding that nitrogen dioxide is associated with respiratory diseases, especially asthma. WHO estimated that more than 13 million deaths worldwide each year are due to preventable environmental causes, including seven million deaths related to air pollution. "After surviving a pandemic, it is unacceptable to still have seven million preventable deaths and countless preventable lost years of good health due to air pollution," said <keyword id="1577997" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="maria-neira" source="Orion">Maria Neira</keyword>, Director of the <keyword id="264999" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="department-of-environment" source="Orion">Department of Environment</keyword>, Climate Change and Health under the WHO. To improve air quality and health, WHO recommends safe and affordable public transport systems and networks suitable for pedestrians and cyclists, investment in energy-efficient housing and power plants, improved management of industrial and municipal waste, reduction of agricultural waste incineration and some agro-forestry activities such as charcoal production. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/business-insider-india-presents-money-insider-your-guide-to-financial-freedom/articleshow/90643990.cms">Business Insider India presents Money Insider – your guide to financial freedom</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/twitter-shares-soar-to-28-after-elon-musk-holds-9-2-passive-stake/articleshow/90643439.cms">Twitter shares soar to 28% after Elon Musk holds 9.2% passive stake</a>

WHO calls for reduction in fossil fuel use to control severe air pollution and respiratory disorders

<ul><li><keyword id="472014" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-jobs" source="Orion">Green jobs</keyword> or jobs in the ESG space, can be found in a wide range of industries, from renewable energy, and clean technology, to sustainable agriculture, and waste management. </li><li>March 2023 saw approximately 19,379 active job postings for ESG roles. </li><li>December 2022, and January 2023 saw the highest number of such jobs closed in India. </li><li>Organizations are looking for applicants with qualifications in energy, social environment, sustainable business management and environmental studies. </li></ul>The Future of Jobs Report 2023, by the World Economic Forum, did strike a warning note saying that 26 million jobs will be wiped out globally by 2027. However, a macrotrend listed in the report deserves attention. According to the report, businesses expect that the greatest net job creation impact will come from investments that support the green transformation of businesses, the wider adoption of ESG standards, and the localization of supply chains. While this is a broader trend that will change the future job landscape as much as AI will, now is perhaps the best time ever to build a career in ESG. “ESG as an industry or segment is growing and in India while we are late at it, I think in India the main reason for ESG growth is largely because you now have the government initiatives and the target of being net zero by 2070,” says says Munira Loliwala, business head, TeamLease Digital, a tech staffing solutions firm. Growth in <keyword id="14096025" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="esg-jobs" source="Orion">ESG jobs</keyword> ESG jobs are employment opportunities centered around Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. These roles involve responsibilities related to sustainable business practices, impact investing, corporate social responsibility, environmental preservation, social justice, diversity and inclusion, ethical governance, and related areas. According to TeamLease Digital, between 2021 and 2022, <keyword id="17432479" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="esg-hiring" source="Orion">ESG hiring</keyword> and new demands grew almost by more than 147%, as compared to 2020-2021, wherein the post Covid year marked almost 85% of growth in hiring by organizations in India. March 2023 saw approximately 19,379 of active job postings for ESG roles, while December 2022, and January 2023 saw the highest number of jobs closed. The average number of ESG jobs posted stood at 12,400 between December 2022, and March 2023, while the average number of closed positions were 14,136. The average number of active ESG related jobs were 24,000. Organizations embracing ESG “ESG plays an important role if India has to attract global investments. ESG increases the chances of investments or chances of the acquisitions that most of the Indian companies today are looking at,” says Loliwala. Both big and small corporations in India have embraced ESG. Reliance Industries, for example, has integrated ESG into their business models. Led by their chief financial officer, their ESG team is a multi-disciplinary group responsible for all of Reliance’s environmental sustainability, stakeholder engagement and regulatory compliance activities. In order to enhance their commitment to ESG principles, HDFC Bank has formed an ESG committee. This committee consists of senior members from key departments within the bank and is chaired by a member of the senior management team. The ESG committee is responsible for developing and implementing the bank's ESG strategy, as well as establishing a roadmap to achieve the set targets. They report to the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) committee of the Board of Directors, providing updates on the bank's ESG strategy and progress. kindlife, a beauty and wellness platform which launched in 2020, has a strong ESG focus. “Our ESG goals are only achievable with a strong team who works tirelessly to bring our vision to life. We work closely with internationally renowned advisors armed with over 20 years of experience. We’ve worked closely with the World Bank and government bodies in the sustainability and clean energy space,” says Radhika Ghai, founder and CEO, kindlife. They have a team of two consultants who are guiding them with assessing their impact across various parameters and projects. They are also gearing towards their next critical goal of 100% carbon neutrality and a sustainable score for brands and products for which they are working closely with Sishir Garemella, a clean energy and climate technology expert. Talent in demand ESG jobs do not necessarily require skills in the sustainability domain. “Green jobs or jobs in the ESG space, can be found in a wide range of industries, from renewable energy and clean technology to sustainable agriculture and waste management. There are three categories of green jobs based on their degree of dependence on green skills,” says Manu Saigal, director, general staffing, Adecco India. Jobs that require green skills: These are jobs that cannot be performed without specialized knowledge of environmental sustainability. Examples include renewable energy technicians, environmental engineers, and sustainability consultants. Jobs with significant potential to create and hone green skills: “These are jobs that are not necessarily focused on environmental sustainability but have the potential to develop green skills,” says Saigal. Examples include architects and construction workers who build energy-efficient buildings and farmers who use sustainable agriculture practices. Jobs that do not require green skills: “These are jobs that are not specifically related to environmental sustainability but may contribute to sustainability indirectly,” says Saigal. Examples include accountants who work for green businesses and marketing professionals who promote environmentally friendly products. The crucial aspect of ESG is now focused on proper data analysis, collection, reporting, investigation, and filing. The typical structure involves using various frameworks to collect and analyze data, which requires hiring individuals at entry-level and mid-level positions with backgrounds in computer science, mathematics, or engineering. ESG data is considered a type of alternative data that can be utilized in the analysis of companies. As a result, investors and hedge funds are utilizing it to identify investment opportunities with lower risk by assessing a company's favourable environmental and ethical factors. Organizations are also looking to appoint applicants who have qualifications in energy, social environment, sustainable business management and environmental studies, wind and solar energies. And one important subject could also be economics and law. A lot of certification courses are available in this space today. There are courses on sustainability accounting, reporting and sustainable investing. <keyword id="17432478" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="esg-job-roles" source="Orion">ESG job roles</keyword> Below are some of the most common ESG job roles, responsibilities and expected salaries. <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none;" class="redcator-table-advance"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Job role </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Responsibilities </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Educational requirement </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Average starting salary (₹ lakh/annum) </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">ESG Analyst </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Responsible for evaluating the ESG performance of companies and making investment decisions </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Bachelor's or master's degree in finance, economics, environmental science, or a related field </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">6-12 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Sustainability Manager </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Develop and implement sustainable business practices, manage environmental impact, and ensure compliance with ESG standards </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Bachelor's or master's degree in environmental science, engineering, sustainability, or a related field. </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">7-18 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">CSR Manager </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Responsible for developing and implementing CSR strategies, managing community engagement, and ensuring compliance with ESG standards </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Master's degree in business administration, sustainability, social work, or a related field. </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">7-15 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">ESG Consultant </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Provide advisory services to companies on ESG issues, including strategy development, risk assessment, and performance evaluation. </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Bachelor's or master's degree in business administration, finance, environmental science, or a related field </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">5-18 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Green Building Consultant </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Provide guidance and support for the design and construction of sustainable buildings, ensuring compliance with ESG standards </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture, engineering, sustainability, or a related field </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">4-10 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;"> </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Responsible for developing and implementing agricultural practices that optimize crop yields and ensure sustainable farming </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Bachelor's or master's degree in agronomy, agriculture, soil science, or a related field. </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">4-10 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Precision Agriculture Specialist </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Use technology to optimize crop production by analyzing data on soil, weather, and plant health. </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Bachelor's or master's degree in agriculture, agronomy, or a related field, along with expertise in data analysis and precision agriculture technology </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:2pt 2pt 2pt 2pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">5-12 </td></tr></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody><tbody></tbody></table> Source: Adecco India The rise of ESG jobs signifies a shift in the business landscape towards sustainability and responsible practices. As companies increasingly prioritize environmental, social, and governance factors, the demand for ESG professionals has surged, offering promising career opportunities for individuals committed to creating positive impact and driving long-term value.

Green jobs: A career option that actually impacts lives & the environment

<ul class="summary-list"><li>A Dept. of Natural Resources officer in Iowa used state databases to screen potential dates.</li><li>She was also accused of calling a police officer "Officer Hot Stuff."</li></ul>An Iowa environmental officer is going to have to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/dating-apps-free-tips-therapist-suck-less-2023-5">switch to another dating app</a> after bosses found out she was screening dates through state databases.Iowa Department of Natural Resources fired the officer in August for conduct unbecoming of a state employee and unauthorized personal use of state databases, according to records viewed by <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/10/11/dnr-officer-fired-after-incident-with-officer-hot-stuff-of-the-ankeny-police/">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>, a local nonprofit news service.Records viewed by the outlet said the officer was on a date in June when she called an ex-partner for a ride, resulting in an argument that became so rowdy it caused the ex-partner's Apple Watch to dial 911.When police arrived, the Department of Natural Resources officer, who is tasked with protecting wildlife and the environment, told them she had a service weapon in her purse, according to Capital Dispatch.She then referred to the responding police officer as "Officer Hot Stuff" before telling him she had used Department of Natural Resources databases to find out the marital status of someone she was considering dating, the department said in its report, according to the outlet.Police did not arrest the her but did confiscate her purse and firearm, according to the report.She filed for unemployment and was awarded $4,832 in benefits after the department fired her, Capital Dispatch reported. But after an appeal from the agency, an administrative law judge ruled that she had been overpaid but did not make her repay the fees, according to the outlet.The judge said in court records that she "admitted more than once that it was likely she was drunk," actions that were "objectively harmful to the employer's interests," Capital Dispatch reported.The Iowa Department of Natural Resources did not immediately return a request for comment from Insider.

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