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Wyoming's New Carbon Capture Project Will Eliminate 1 Million Metric Tons of CO2
A new facility in Wyoming that captures carbon dioxide from the air and stores it underground is set to become operational by 2023. The project, known as Project Bison, is the first of its kind and is expected to help reduce the impact of fossil fuels on the environment. The facility is being backed by a number of investors, including the airline industry and Occidental Petroleum, and is expected to capture 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide per year.
Score (97)
An Easter Egg Surprise for These Cathedral's Peregrines
A delightful surprise unfolded at Worcester Cathedral as the first of four peregrine falcon eggs hatched on Easter Sunday. The event, captured live on the cathedral's nesting box camera around 7:30 a.m. BST, marked another successful year for the resident falcons. The female falcon, affectionately named Peggy by her fans, has been returning to this nesting spot with her partner Peter since 2022. Each year, they have successfully raised several chicks. This year's clutch of eggs was laid last month, with the final egg arriving on March 20. Chris Dobbs, the cathedral's biodiversity adviser, commented on the number of eggs: "You wouldn't really want any more because that's a lot to feed." Before Peggy and Peter's arrival in 2022, peregrine falcons had not nested at Worcester Cathedral for over a decade. Since then, this dynamic duo has made it their home and successfully fledged multiple chicks each year. The live stream of their nest has captivated audiences worldwide, amassing nearly 500,000 views in 2024 alone.
Score (97)
Drones and AI: The New Heroes of Vancouver's North Shore Rescues
In the rugged beauty of Vancouver's North Shore Mountains, adventure seekers often find themselves in need of rescue. With over 100 calls a year to North Shore Rescue, lost or injured individuals rely on the expertise of Canada's busiest volunteer search and rescue team. Thanks to innovative technology like drones equipped with thermal imaging and artificial intelligence software, North Shore Rescue can now locate those in distress faster than ever before. Grant Baldwin, a drone operator for NSR, explains how these tools enhance their search capabilities by providing clear visuals from above. Despite the high-tech assistance, ground crews remain essential for rescues involving difficult terrain. The recent integration of drone technology has already proven its worth when locating a missing hiker on Mount Seymour. Baldwin recalls spotting the hiker with his drone's thermal imaging software, ultimately saving him from hypothermia. While drones offer significant advantages in search and rescue missions, they are not foolproof. Baldwin emphasizes the importance of being prepared when venturing into the mountains and not solely relying on technology for safety. As North Shore Rescue continues to push boundaries with new technologies like Eagle Eyes AI software developed in Squamish, their dedication to saving lives remains unwavering. The combination of traditional search methods and cutting-edge tools ensures that those lost or injured in Vancouver's mountains have a fighting chance at survival.
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Score (96)
Zurich Zoo Just Welcomed This Adorable Newborn Elephant Calf
Zurich Zoo welcomed a new addition this weekend as a 19-year-old Asian elephant named Farha gave birth to a male calf. The birth, captured by a light-sensitive monitoring camera before dawn on Saturday, took place in the zoo’s Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park. This area is now home to six elephants: four females including Farha, bull elephant and father Thai, and the newborn calf. Zoo Director Severin Dressen expressed cautious optimism about the new arrival. “The first weeks of a calf’s life are always the most delicate — even if the calf currently appears healthy and fit,” he said in a statement. The Asian elephant, or Elephas maximus, is critically endangered with an estimated 50,000 left in the wild. Their numbers continue to decline due to habitat loss and poaching. Zurich Zoo participates in conservation efforts through the European Endangered Species Program by breeding these elephants. To ensure safety, zoo staff have kept Farha separated from another female elephant named Panang, who lacks experience with young animals. This separation will remain for several days. Elephant births are relatively rare in zoos due to their nearly two-year gestation period. The name of the new calf will be announced after a staff meeting on Wednesday; it will start with "Z" as per naming conventions for 2025. As Zurich Zoo celebrates this significant event, they remain focused on their mission to support endangered species through careful breeding programs and conservation efforts.
Score (98)
Sister Surfing: Women Are Riding Waves Together, Breaking Barriers and Building Bonds
Laura Crane's journey from a determined 10-year-old to a professional big wave surfer is nothing short of inspiring. Despite being told that "girls don't surf" in the UK, Crane pursued her dream with unwavering resolve. Now 30, she has conquered some of the world's most formidable waves, including Portugal's towering 60-foot swells. Crane's path wasn't without challenges. She recalls signing her first professional contract at age 12 and quickly realizing she was valued more for her appearance than her athletic prowess. "It knocked my confidence completely," she said, reflecting on the sexism that plagued her early career. In the UK, women account for just 20% of surfers, but initiatives like The Wave near Bristol are working to change that. This inland surfing center offers female-only "Sister Sessions," creating a supportive environment for women to embrace the sport. Jenny Jones, an Olympic snowboarder turned surfer, highlights the power of these sessions: "That sense of community spirit builds quickly." Charlie Rowen from Bristol Girls Surf Club emphasizes how these sessions alleviate pressure and foster enjoyment among participants. Even advanced surfers find encouragement and support in this inclusive setting. Zoe Smith's story further underscores The Wave's impact. After losing her leg in a car accident in 2015, Smith found solace in surfing post-lockdown. Now a world champion para surfer, she credits The Wave for helping restore her confidence and freedom. For Crane and others like her, the landscape is shifting toward greater inclusion and recognition based on talent rather than appearance. As Crane puts it: "Sometimes the world isn't ready for you. But you have to be the change that it's not quite ready to see."
Score (96)
Canada's Oldest Man Just Celebrated With a Family Bash
Burdett Sisler, a lively 110-year-old resident of Fort Erie, Canada, recently achieved his long-standing goal of reaching this milestone age. With a chuckle, he now sets his sights on making it to the year 2030. Despite some challenges with hearing and vision, Burdett remains in good health for his age and is optimistic about the future. According to his son Norman, Burdett is believed to be Canada's oldest living man. His remarkable journey began in Akron, Ohio, in 1915 before his family relocated to Toronto. Over the years, Burdett worked as an appraiser at the Peace Bridge port of entry and served in various roles post-World War II. Despite losing his wife decades ago and retiring from work many years back, Burdett has stayed active by keeping up with current events and engaging in community activities like bingo and adult literacy programs. He even continued driving until he turned 100. Surrounded by a loving family that includes five children, 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and an impressive 14 great-great-grandchildren, Burdett's positive outlook on life shines through. At a recent birthday celebration attended by over 250 well-wishers, including local politicians and family members galore, Burdett was moved by the outpouring of love. As he reflected on a life filled with change and challenges, Burdett's simple yet profound advice remains timeless: treat others as you would like to be treated.
Score (97)
This Legendary Guide Aims For Record 31st Everest Climb—And Maybe A 32nd
Renowned mountain guide Kami Rita is gearing up for an epic adventure as he sets his sights on conquering Mount Everest for the 31st time, with a possible 32nd ascent on the horizon. The 55-year-old Sherpa guide, who holds the current record for the most successful climbs of Everest at an impressive 30 times, is ready to take on the challenge once again. "I am mentally, emotionally and physically prepared to climb the mountain," Kami Rita shared with The Associated Press before departing for Everest. "I am in my top physical condition right now." With a long history of guiding climbers to the summit of Everest, Kami Rita's expertise and skills are unmatched. His dedication to ensuring the safety and success of his clients has earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the greatest mountain guides in the world. While Kami Rita's primary focus remains on leading his group of climbers to the peak, he hasn't ruled out attempting multiple ascents this season. His passion for mountaineering and unwavering determination continue to drive him towards new heights. As he embarks on this latest expedition, Kami Rita's journey serves as a testament to his resilience and commitment to pushing boundaries. With each step towards Everest's summit, he paves the way for future generations of climbers to follow in his footsteps.
Score (96)
Jaguars Roam Free Again: Conservation Triumphs in South America's Gran Chaco
Jaguar populations in South America's Gran Chaco region are making a comeback, thanks to dedicated conservationists in Argentina. These efforts involve collaring and monitoring jaguars, as well as relocating individuals to boost genetic diversity. The Gran Chaco, the second-largest forest in South America, spans northern Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Brazil. It is home to 3,400 plant species and 500 bird species. Despite its rich biodiversity, the region faces severe deforestation challenges. According to the Nature Conservancy, it loses over 133 square miles of forest each month due to habitat destruction and poaching. Conservationists from El Impenetrable National Park, Formosa Nature Reserve, and Rewilding Argentina have been working tirelessly to reverse this trend. Last year they collared and released a male jaguar named Tañhi Wuk into the wild. He is one of five collared jaguars in the park whose movements are tracked for protection purposes. In an effort to increase genetic diversity among the park's jaguar population, a female jaguar named Mini was relocated last month from Iberá National Park—where jaguars had been extinct for 70 years—to El Impenetrable. "It is necessary not only to increase genetic diversity... but above all to boost reproduction," said Gerardo Cerón of Rewilding Argentina. Conservationists aim to connect jaguar populations across the Gran Chaco as part of their broader strategy for environmental health improvement. "These national parks were great but depleted of wildlife," said Sebastián Di Martino of Rewilding Argentina. "Now...the story is changing dramatically."
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Teen Entrepreneur Launches Clothing Brand During Summer Break
Summer break for most teenagers means lazy days and hanging out with friends, but for 15-year-old Jemima from Shropshire, England, it was the perfect opportunity to launch her own clothing brand. Mima Rose was launched in August 2023 when Jemima decided to fill a gap in the market for affordable teenage clothing. With a small loan from her parents, Jemima started designing graphic T-shirts that quickly gained popularity among her peers. "I decided to start off with T-shirts because they are versatile and can be worn the whole year round," she explained. Her careful pricing strategy of £15 per shirt ensured that her products were accessible to teens without disposable income. Despite juggling schoolwork and business responsibilities, Jemima's dedication paid off as she sold over 8,000 shirts and even hosted a successful pop-up shop in Chelsea. She credits her friends for helping spread the word on social media and supporting her along the way. While running a business at such a young age presents challenges, Jemima remains focused on expanding Mima Rose. With plans to introduce new products like tank tops and increase brand recognition through pop-up shops and social media, this young entrepreneur is poised for success. As Jemima reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of financial education for young people. "It's a life skill fundamental to running a business," she said.
Score (96)
Rabbit Showjumping Hops Into Hearts At Sydney's Easter Show
Sydney's Royal Easter Show hosted a unique event that captivated attendees over the weekend: kaninhop, or rabbit showjumping. Originating in Sweden, this quirky sport has gained international popularity since the 1970s. The event featured 26 competitors and marked its debut at the show. Natasha McGarry, president of the Rabbit Hopping Society of Australia and a four-time national Rabbit Hopper of the Year, served as a senior judge. McGarry, who owns 25 house-trained rabbits, discovered her passion for kaninhop as a teenager in 2013. The competition included four events: straight course, crooked course, high jump, and long jump. In the straight course, winners are determined by "least rail knocks followed by quickest time," according to McGarry. Among the participants was Ciara Kaye-Stavens with her Harlequin rabbit named Batman. Wearing an H-shaped harness attached to a lead, Batman cleared the rails to cheers from spectators. Kaye-Stavens also celebrated success in the crooked course category with another rabbit named Daredevil. For the long jump event, rabbits had three attempts to clear red-and-white railings. Mezmerise, handled by Belle Janes, initially hesitated but eventually secured second place after overcoming obstacles. McGarry emphasized that rabbit hopping is therapeutic for both humans and animals. "It helps me on a bad day – to get out, have fun and get some exercise," she said. Jenna Sinclair echoed this sentiment. A veteran since 2013, Sinclair brought several rabbits to compete and expressed excitement over each clean run they achieved. The event finished with Bushwhacker taking first place in the long jump category. First-time attendee Miranda Whittle left inspired: "I need a rabbit now," she remarked.
Score (97)
Rainfall is Rejuvenating These Lakes, Thanks To Community And NGO Efforts
A refreshing downpour in late March brought new life to two lakes on the outskirts of Bengaluru, India, collecting 2 million liters of water and revitalizing their critically low levels. "The lake was rejuvenated through the relentless efforts of residents, [nongovernmental organizations] and [corporate social responsibility] funding," said K Ramanath Rao, executive director of Kasturingar Welfare Association. "Seeing rainwater enter the lake from the inlet for the first time since I moved here 14 years ago is an incredible feeling." Over the past year, local and international NGOs have been busy restoring these lakes by clearing inlets and outlets, desilting, fixing bunds, and fencing off areas to prevent garbage dumping. Solar-powered radar-based sensors installed within the lakes allowed them to monitor rainfall levels effectively. The restoration project began in 2023 amid a severe groundwater crisis. Once thriving ecosystems were overtaken by urbanization and environmental degradation. The successful revival of these lakes marks a significant step forward in addressing Bengaluru's water deficit of 500 million liters per day. Residents now hope that placing these lakes under India's Forest Department jurisdiction will protect them from further encroachment. Deokant Payasi, CEO of SayTrees, one of the NGOs involved in monitoring efforts, told Deccan Herald: "A single day's rainfall filling these two lakes up by 2.1 million liters of water goes to show that if we catch the rainfall properly, we will have more than enough water to recharge our borewells."