William Laurance, Director of the Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science at James Cook University in Cairns, Australia, spoke to Voice of America about potential damage from big development projects across the African Continent.
In his study, published in the journal Current Biology, Laurance and his team assessed 33 major projects, all either proposed or in early stages. His conclusions are not too encouraging: Only six of the projects sound promising to him, six would have serious environmental consequences and the rest received mixed grades – they could go either way, so caution is advised.
“…six would slice into the heart of some of the most environmentally sensitive areas of Africa such as the Congo Basin and West African forest and critical equatorial and south equatorial forests of East Africa,” Laurance told Voice of America. “These places are amazingly rich in wildlife and environmental resources.” Those projects should be canceled altogether.
Read the full article here
William Laurence is a speaker at the Discussion Forum
Uncertainty in tropical landscapes: Emerging data and models as a bridge between the past and visions for tomorrow, taking place during the Global Landscapes Forum, on Sunday, 6 December, at 9.00 CET. The session is hosted by: International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), European Commission: Joint Research Centre and Directorate General for Climate Change Action
Finally…
…thank you for reading this story. Our mission is to make them freely accessible to everyone, no matter where they are.
We believe that lasting and impactful change starts with changing the way people think. That’s why we amplify the diverse voices the world needs to hear – from local restoration leaders to Indigenous communities and women who lead the way.
By supporting us, not only are you supporting the world’s largest knowledge-led platform devoted to sustainable and inclusive landscapes, but you’re also becoming a vital part of a global movement that’s working tirelessly to create a healthier world for us all.
Every donation counts – no matter the amount. Thank you for being a part of our mission.
