Latest news with #Ficus
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Fig Trees That Grow Rocks From Carbon Discovered in Africa
It's well-known that trees absorb carbon dioxide from the air to create their structure's organic building blocks. Some trees go one step further, converting extra CO2 into limestone within their trunks. Now researchers have found a new example of such a plant that could be a suitable choice for agriculture. These trees can turn this greenhouse gas into calcium oxalate, which microbes then convert to calcium carbonate, aka limestone: the same mineral formed by coral reefs. "We've known about the oxalate carbonate pathway for some time, but its potential for sequestering carbon hasn't been fully considered," says biogeochemist Mike Rowley from the University of Zurich. Related: The international research team focused on three species of figs: Ficus wakefieldii, Ficus natalensis, and Ficus glumosa. While all three species convert carbon dioxide in the air into limestone laced throughout their bark and wood, Ficus wakefieldii performed best in terms of carbon fixation rates. Calcium carbonate tends to remain trapped in soil much longer than organic carbon, so trees that do this could be important allies in slowing climate change. Adding a productive species of food crop to the short list of limestone-producing plants could provide an extra incentive to grow them, too. "If we're planting trees for agroforestry and their ability to store CO2 as organic carbon, while producing food, we could choose trees that provide an additional benefit by sequestering inorganic carbon also, in the form of calcium carbonate," Rowley says. All three fig species grow in the depleted basaltic soils of Samburu country in Kenya. In this dry environment, it is easier for the scientists to track the formation of calcium carbonate. "However, even in wetter environments, the carbon can still be sequestered," Rowley says. "So far, numerous species of tree have been identified which can form calcium carbonate, but we believe there are many more. This means that the oxalate-carbonate pathway could be a significant, under-explored opportunity to help mitigate CO2 emissions as we plant trees for forestry or fruit." The research was presented at the Goldschmidt geochemistry conference in Prague. Related News Numerous Fossils Reveal Jurassic Fish Killed in Same, Bizarre Way 'Ball Lightning' Caught on Film After Storm in Canada Expired Cans of Salmon From Decades Ago Contained a Huge Surprise Solve the daily Crossword
Observer
6 days ago
- Observer
GREEN SPACES AT RISK FROM OFF-ROAD DRIVING
Some phenomena continue to spoil the experience of enjoying the natural beauty of Dhofar Governorate throughout the year, particularly during the khareef season. One of the most damaging is the random passage of vehicles across green plains and mountain slopes. Protecting nature - especially vegetation - has become an urgent priority that requires collective effort. The benefits of preserving these green landscapes are universal, especially during khareef, when Dhofar transforms into one of the most verdant and captivating regions in the Arabian Peninsula. Adorned with a lush green blanket, the governorate draws thousands of visitors from within Oman and abroad. Dhofar Governorate alone is home to 900 species, representing 64 per cent of Oman's total flora. These plants flourish in areas blessed by seasonal rains, making the governorate especially attractive during khareef season. In response, the Dhofar Municipality has launched a project to protect these vital green spaces from uncontrolled vehicle traffic. This initiative underscores the Municipality's commitment to preserving one of the governorate's most important natural assets - its vegetation cover that spans mountains, plains and popular tourist spots. However, increased tourism and the widespread use of private vehicles in natural areas have given rise to serious threats. Irregular vehicle movements crush plants, damage root systems and disturb the soil structure, reducing its capacity to retain water and air-essential elements for plant growth. Over time, this leads to gradual vegetation loss, eventually transforming once-green areas into barren lands. The Nature Conservation Society, operating under the Environment Authority, has stepped up efforts to address this issue through an 'Awareness Initiative.' Key elements of this initiative include: Cooperation with authorities such as the Environment Authority, Dhofar Municipality, and Royal Oman Police to close dirt roads before khareef season begins. Educational outreach to residents and visitors on the importance of protecting green spaces. This involves distributing brochures, conducting biodiversity lectures and sharing multilingual awareness messages on social media. Combating invasive species like Parthenium hysterophorus and mesquite trees (Prosopis juliflora), which threaten native vegetation and biodiversity. Pest control efforts targeting harmful insects such as stem borers and termites that damage trees including baobab, wild figs (Ficus sycomorus), wild olives (Olea europaea) and frankincense (Boswellia sacra). Pruning and maintenance of perennial trees in cooperation with relevant agencies. The Society has also praised efforts to prohibit vehicle entry into green spaces and establish designated parking areas along roadsides. Vegetation is the backbone of ecological systems, stabilising soil against erosion, enriching it, purifying the air, absorbing carbon dioxide, and producing oxygen. It also plays a key role in moderating temperatures, promoting rainfall through transpiration and shielding the Earth's surface from excessive heat. Despite active measures by the Municipality, Environment Authority, police and conservation groups, the phenomenon of vehicle-induced damage persists - sometimes due to ignorance, lack of enforcement, or deliberate violations. As khareef season returns, community involvement is crucial. Highlighting these issues is not meant to generalise or blame all visitors, but to encourage a deeper sense of responsibility and shared stewardship for Dhofar's green treasures.
Hans India
6 days ago
- General
- Hans India
Vana Mahotsavam held at Nehru Zoo Park
Hyderabad: Nehru Zoological Park launched a mega plantation programme under the Vana Mahotsavam programme on Sunday. As part of this, Dr C Suvarna, PCCF (HoFF), Telangana and Elusing Meru, PCCF (Wildlife), Telangana along with other Forest Officials and Director of Zoo Parks, Telangana visited Nehru Zoological Park and planted the tree saplings of Ficus and other fruit bearing and shade giving tree saplings near the reptile house area. During the programme, Dr Suvarna flagged off and released a pair of 'Serval Cats' into the enclosure for the public display at small cats enclosure. These cats are of about 2 years old. This new exotic species is endemic to the African continent and lives up to 16 years in captivity. Later, the PCCF also inaugurated the renovated Fossil Park Garden, a variety of plant species planted in the model of Telangana map. 'With a motto to increase the green cover in the state, everyone has to plant a tree in the name of mother – Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,' said Dr Suvarna. Dr Sunil S Hiremath, Director Zoo Parks, Telangana and Field Director (FAC), Amrabad Tiger Reserve, Telangana, M J Akbar, Former Director - NZP, Dr MA Hakeem, Deputy Director (Vet), M Barnoba, Deputy Curator, Dr P Srinivas, Asst. Director (Vet), A Nagamani, ACF, Admin and other officers also participated in the programme.
Business Upturn
22-06-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Innovative Project Management Services Collaborates with a Premium Beverage Brand for an Environmental Project in Delhi
By Business Wire India Published on June 22, 2025, 09:00 IST New Delhi, Delhi, India: On the occasion of World Environment Day (5th June), a leading luxury beverage brand in partnership with the Centre of CSR & Sustainability Excellence (CCSE) and Shri Ramuchit Memorial Foundation successfully launched Phase 2 of its CSR initiative, advancing its commitment to environmental stewardship, urban renewal, and the well-being of communities in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. Following the success of the road safety initiative in Gurgaon, Phase 2 of the CSR project pivots to environmental renewal, spearheading the plantation of 450 native trees and sustainable fencing in polluted urban zones. The plant species include Ficus, Canna, Hamelia, Kaner, and carpet grasses. These plantations are pollution-resistant, known for dust absorption and oxygen production, and selected in consultation with urban ecologists. The project launch witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including a representative from the corporate donor, the ACP of Delhi Police (South), project managers from CCSE, members of the local administration, and esteemed members of the horticulture department, marking a powerful collaborative step towards a greener Delhi. The CSR initiative focused on a specific area in Vasant Kunj, near the ONGC building and Ambience Mall, including portions of a park, affected by air pollution, trash accumulation, and urban heating. Through plantations and a cleaning drive, the area was successfully revived. The initiative will also provide Long Term Maintenance support for the plantations to ensure survival and ecological impact. The project also aims to improve community aesthetics by creating a green buffer zone in one of the city's most densely populated and pollution-prone areas. Speaking at the launch event, a representative from the corporate donor remarked: 'As a part of our commitment towards environmental protection and sustenance, we're proud to stand beside our partners and local communities to plant hope in a highly polluted zone. Through green interventions and maintenance, we aim to spark long-term transformation. Our future projects in Gurgaon & Delhi will cater to other important social issues for greater community impact.' Dr. Soumitro Chakraborty, Chairman of CCSE and CEO of Innovative Project Management Services Pvt. Ltd. (Fiinovation), added, 'Urban ecosystems need urgent healing. This project is not just about planting trees, but about restoring balance between people and nature. Our goal is to create replicable models for corporate-community partnerships in environmental restoration.' Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of Shri Ramuchit Memorial Foundation, said, 'Environmental sustainability is not just a goal, it's a responsibility we all share. At Shri Ramuchit Memorial Foundation, we are proud to partner in this transformative initiative that not only restores green cover but also improves the quality of life for communities in Vasant Kunj. Together, through collaborative action, we aim to build cleaner, greener, and healthier urban spaces for future generations.' Mr. Vijay Malik, ACP, Delhi Police stated, 'As protectors of our city, we must promote the right to breathe clean air and live in healthy surroundings. We welcome this corporate social responsibility initiative and public private partnership as a commendable step in reclaiming Delhi's green lungs. Together, with responsible citizens and institutions, we can transform urban neglection into sustainable spaces that protect both nature and humanity.' The project also aligns with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, i.e., SDG 3 : Good Health & Well-being : Good Health & Well-being SDG 11 : Sustainable Cities & Communities : Sustainable Cities & Communities SDG 13 : Climate Action : Climate Action SDG 15: Life on Land In sync with the success of Phase 1, the second phase further cements the corporate donor's vision of socially responsible, environmentally conscious urban development. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash Business Wire India, established in 2002, India's premier media distribution company ensures guaranteed media coverage through its network of 30+ cities and top news agencies.
ME Construction
04-06-2025
- Business
- ME Construction
Majid Al Futtaim announces contract awards for Ghaf Woods
Industry News Majid Al Futtaim announces contract awards for Ghaf Woods By Spanning 738,000sqm off the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Highway, near Global Village, Ghaf Woods will feature over 7,000 premium units Majid Al Futtaim has announced two milestones for its forest living concept, Ghaf Woods. These milestones include the establishment of a dedicated tree nursery to support the project's biophilic design concept and the appointment of Innovo Build as the primary contractor for its initial two phases. Ghaf Woods, billed as a model for sustainable forest living in Dubai, will be the cornerstone of this vision. Over the next 18 months, the nursery will grow and nurture thousands of native and climate resilient tree species. Currently, it houses over 10,000 trees, with the figure expected to reach 20,000 by May 2026 and 105,000 shrubs by the same time. By the end of this period, the nursery will expand to accommodate up to 30,000 trees, which will then be transported and replanted across Ghaf Woods. As part of this journey, the US $13.2mn nursery contract has been awarded to Barari Natural Resources, part of Mawarid Holding Investment, who will manage and oversee the trees care and cultivation throughout this journey. The facility will be home to a diverse selection of climate-suitable species, including Acacias, Citrus, Ficus, Melia, Phoenix, Tecomella, Ziziphus, and the iconic Ghaf. All species have been procured from Egypt (Nile Delta), India, Thailand, and the UAE – including Fujairah, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Abu Dhabi. Ghaf Woods is said to be revolutionising the concept of living in harmony with nature. The development's forest ecosystem will surpass the number of residents, serving as a vital 'Green Lung' that purifies the air by up to 20% and lowers temperatures by up to five degrees Celsius compared to other parts of the city. Moreover, these trees will play a crucial role in mitigating soil erosion, conserving water, and creating shaded pathways and green corridors throughout the community, the developer said in its statement. Ahmed El Shamy, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Properties said, 'The concept of Ghaf Woods has been years in the making with a vision for sustainable living at the core. Since its unveiling one year ago, there's been a clear and growing demand from people who are looking for communities that foster a deeper connection with nature and the environment. Our investment in a purpose-built tree nursery, and the partnership with Barari Natural Resources and Mawarid Holding Investment, is a vital step in bringing this vision to life. We're also proud to be working with Innovo Build on the delivery of the Celia, Serra, and Lacina clusters. It is through collaborations like these that we are setting a new benchmark for how nature, lifestyle and premium living can meaningfully coexist.' Kashif Shamsi, Group Chief Executive Officer, Mawarid Holding Investment added, 'This nursery is a critical foundation for the forest ecosystem at Ghaf Woods. Our focus is not only on scale but also on biodiversity, resilience, and ensuring every tree contributes meaningfully to the project's long-term environmental impact. As one of the largest plant nursery operators in the GCC, we are proud to collaborate on one of the region's most forward-looking developments, and excited to see the landscape grow from the ground up.' In addition, Innovo Build has been awarded a $463mn contract for Phase 1 and Phase 2 of Ghaf Woods, including the construction and completion of 13 buildings with a shared podium level across the Celia, Serra, and Lacina clusters. Known for their expertise in sustainable, high-quality developments, Innovo Build's portfolio spans luxury residences, villa communities, educational institutions, and critical infrastructure. With sustainability at the heart of its operations, Innovo Build will focus on Ghaf Woods' forest living concept, blending contemporary architecture with immersive natural surroundings to create a new standard for urban living in Dubai, the statement added. Sameh Fam, Chief Executive Officer, Innovo Build commented, 'We are proud to partner with Majid Al Futtaim to deliver the early phases of a development as visionary as Ghaf Woods a project that reflects our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability and community-centric design. This project redefines traditional construction, and requires us to build in harmony with nature, not around it. Our team will approach this landmark development with the precision, care and focus on sustainability that cements us as a contractor of choice in UAE.' Spanning 738,000sqm off the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Highway, near Global Village, Ghaf Woods will feature over 7,000 premium units, including one, two, and three-bedroom residences and penthouses. Prioritising wellness, Ghaf Woods promises residents eight kilometres of walking trails, a three-and-a-half-kilometre biking loop, resort-style pools, fitness facilities, family-friendly gardens, and a yoga pavilion. The community will also be home to Majid Al Futtaim's signature multi-purpose hub, Distrikt, which features a curated selection of retail and farm-to-table dining experiences, the statement concluded.
