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At least 241 invasive plants mapped in 7 South Asian countries; India tops list
Source: Hindustan Times
Date: 5 Dec 2023
Scientists from India and six other South Asian countries have compiled an inventory of 241 invasive alien plant species negatively impacting biodiversity and food security. India tops the list with 185 invasive plants, followed by Bhutan (53), Sri Lanka (45), Bangladesh (39), Nepal (30), and Pakistan (29). The study, published in ‘Biological Invasions,’ reveals Southern America as the major contributor to invasive species in the region. Climate change exacerbates the problem, reducing habitat resilience. Invasive species cost the Indian economy up to ₹11.9 trillion ($182.6 billion) from 1960-2020. The research aims to guide future studies in data-deficient areas.
Lenders join hands over $8b climate fund for Bangladesh
Source: Daily Star
Date: 4 Dec 2023
In a groundbreaking initiative for Asia, development partners, led by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), have launched an $8 billion fund to assist Bangladesh in combating and adapting to climate change. The Bangladesh Climate and Development Platform (BCDP) includes partners such as the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, Green Climate Fund, and others. Acknowledging Bangladesh’s proactive stance on climate risks, the IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, praised the country’s efforts. The collaboration aligns with existing climate funding arrangements, with the ADB processing a $400 million loan, and commitments from the Korean government, AIIB, UK, and Team Europe.
A call to combat climate change
Source: Pakistan Today
Date: 4 Dec 2023
As COP-28 commenced, participating nations agreed on a pivotal Loss and Damage Fund to aid climate-vulnerable states with minimal carbon footprints. This crucial development highlights the urgency for high-emission countries to transition away from fossil fuels, a primary contributor to escalating greenhouse gas (GHG) levels. Environmental analysts stress the need for swift action, pointing out that over 50% of GHGs in the atmosphere have been emitted since 1980. To address climate change effectively and limit global temperature rise to 1.5℃, immediate collective efforts are imperative. Young climate activists, as demonstrated in forums like the Model OIC Conference, play a vital role in raising awareness and fostering innovative solutions. Proposing a Model COP (MCOP) sponsored by the UNFCCC, similar to Model UN initiatives, would ensure meaningful youth participation in the essential climate change conference.
