Scientists to decide indispensable species.
 
Through an Earthwatch initiative, a group of five leading scientists have conducted a study to identify the species that life on Earth relies on most. Among the top five species are bats and bees for crop and plant pollination, fungi for being a major recycler in nature and plankton for providing half the planet’s oxygen and sustaining billions of marine creatures. However, four out of five of these most important groups are currently threatened by global warming and other human-caused conditions such as habitat loss and pollution.

Earthwatch and all associated researchers, we thank you for highlighting our interconnectedness with all life on Earth. May we protect our environment with due respect and gratitude for God’s many diverse creations.

Solar at Sea: Chinese Cargo Ships Will Have Solar Sails

Sustainable sails to power cargo ships. The Sydney, Australia-based Solar Sailor company has designed sails to attach to ocean-going vessels that can harness wind and solar power. The use of wind power is expected to initially reduce ship fuel costs by up to 40%, with the solar component supplementing on-board power requirements. A big bravo, Solar Sailor and COSCO, for pioneering the way to a greener way to sail! May such a focus on sustainable energy worldwide help restore our globe’s beautiful land and seas. 
  
Environmental ministers launch plan for adapting to climate change in Southeast Europe

Environment ministers prepare for changing climate. The Southeast European (SEE) Climate Change Framework Action Plan for Adaptation has been launched by the Environmental Ministers of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. Through this framework, participants agree to collectively minimize the effects of global warming in their regions through such measures as improved information exchange, national early warning systems and advanced irrigation and flood protection systems.
 
Many thanks, caring Southeast European leaders, for your forward thinking in protecting your nations from the harms of climate change. May all governments be similarly dedicated to addressing global warming for the preservation of all Earthly life.

CA Puts $1B into Low Income Energy Efficiency Program

California, USA assists the less fortunate in saving energy. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has reserved US$1 billion for a Low Income Energy Efficiency (LIEE) program, where free home energy audits will be performed and energy efficient appliances and home weatherization will be provided to eligible households.

The commission’s California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program further aids the disadvantaged by providing a 20% discount on monthly household energy bills. Our heartfelt appreciation, California Public Utilities Commission, for these initiatives that are both Earth-friendly and compassionate. May many people prosper in sustainable comfort and well-being.