Latest news with #ecosystemrestoration
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Amazing vanishing world recreated on 12,300 hectare property in heart of Aussie outback
In the heart of Australia's outback, a vanishing world has been created that only springs to life at night. Behind towering fences at South Australia's 12,300-hectare Arid Recovery Reserve, 10 mammal species are being protected from invasive predators behind high fences, reestablishing a complex ecosystem that few people alive today have seen. The University of NSW's Professor Katherine Moseby is the lead author of a paper that has tracked dramatic changes over 26 years since rabbits, foxes and cats were excluded from the landscape. When it comes to the elusive spinifex hopping mouse, its population is up to 33 times higher inside than outside the fence. During the day, you'd have to have sharp eyes to notice signs of any of the tiny mammals that live there. There are small diggings in the soil from reintroduced species like bilbies, but the desert sands and plant life appear near identical. 'If you're driving around in a car, you have to go really slowly so you don't run over all the small mammals because they're just in such high abundance compared to the outside world,' Moseby told Yahoo News. 'If you're driving around outside, you can go at normal speed.' Related: Concern as rare birds retreat to mountains where giant moa became extinct The study included nine native species, the spinifex hopping mouse, plains mouse, Bolam's mouse, Forrest's mouse, desert mouse, sandy inland mouse, stripe-faced dunnart, fat-tailed dunnart and Giles' planigale. The tenth species was the introduced house mouse. During drought, the number of native mammals naturally declines, but after rain, furious breeding helps restore numbers. But the presence of feral predators outside of the fence area appears to interrupt the natural boom and bust breeding cycles, suppressing their recovery and eventually leading to localised extinctions. The team was 'surprised' to discover that in the absence of introduced predators, mammals were expanding into new habitats where they're not traditionally found. This indicates they have retreated from an array of landscapes since the arrival of Europeans. The spinifex hopping house had primarily been associated with sand dunes, but behind the fences they have been seen in swales and clay-based lowlands. The plains mouse moved from swales to sand dunes. Sadly, not all of the animals that once roamed the Red Centre landscape have survived — there are several species missing from the study because they're extinct. But the recovery of 10 highlights how much the nation once looked before European settlement. 'It's incredible how that country would have been so different back then. I think people drive through the desert and think there's nothing out there, but they've just changed so much over the last 150 years,' Moseby said. Moseby isn't just sad that Australia has changed so dramatically and that few people are aware more species like the carnivorous kowari and greater bilbies are continuing to decline in numbers. She's mostly angry. In her decades of studying Australia's rare and endangered creatures, she hasn't seen any 'political will' to save those that have survived the initial wave of settlement, and the cocktail of threats that continue to suppress them. The country is famous for wiping out the Tasmanian tiger, very nearly killing off the koala, and it is notable for having the worst mammalian extinction record in the world. Rare colour footage of extinct Australian animal seen again after 90 years Major weather event sees town overrun by 'rarely observed' phenomenon Once common 'extreme' genetic change unlikely to occur again in human history Director Stephen Spielberg famously recreated a "Lost World" in his movie franchise about bringing dinosaurs back from extinction. The pre-colonial landscape in Australia hasn't yet been lost, but extinction threats are mounting, including climate change, which is heating parts of the desert to uninhabitable levels. 'We know what we need to do. It makes me really frustrated that we could be doing so much more – we can improve land condition, reduce grazing, increase our control of cats and foxes, and improve fire management. We've done the research,' Moseby said. 'We know what we need to do, but it seems like we're banging our heads against a wall, because these things just don't get taken up.' Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week's best stories.
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Incredible vanishing world recreated in 12,300 hectare outback property
In the heart of Australia's outback, a vanishing world has been created that only springs to life at night. Behind towering fences at South Australia's 12,300-hectare Arid Recovery Reserve, 10 mammal species are being protected from invasive predators behind high fences, reestablishing a complex ecosystem that few people alive today have seen. The University of NSW's Professor Katherine Moseby is the lead author of a paper that has tracked dramatic changes over 26 years since rabbits, foxes and cats were excluded from the landscape. When it comes to the elusive spinifex hopping mouse, its population is up to 33 times higher inside than outside the fence. During the day, you'd have to have sharp eyes to notice signs of any of the tiny mammals that live there. There are small diggings in the soil from reintroduced species like bilbies, but the desert sands and plant life appear near identical. 'If you're driving around in a car, you have to go really slowly so you don't run over all the small mammals because they're just in such high abundance compared to the outside world,' Moseby told Yahoo News. 'If you're driving around outside, you can go at normal speed.' Related: Concern as rare birds retreat to mountains where giant moa became extinct The study included nine native species, the spinifex hopping mouse, plains mouse, Bolam's mouse, Forrest's mouse, desert mouse, sandy inland mouse, stripe-faced dunnart, fat-tailed dunnart and Giles' planigale. The tenth species was the introduced house mouse. During drought, the number of native mammals naturally declines, but after rain, furious breeding helps restore numbers. But the presence of feral predators outside of the fence area appears to interrupt the natural boom and bust breeding cycles, suppressing their recovery and eventually leading to localised extinctions. The team was 'surprised' to discover that in the absence of introduced predators, mammals were expanding into new habitats where they're not traditionally found. This indicates they have retreated from an array of landscapes since the arrival of Europeans. The spinifex hopping house had primarily been associated with sand dunes, but behind the fences they have been seen in swales and clay-based lowlands. The plains mouse moved from swales to sand dunes. Sadly, not all of the animals that once roamed the Red Centre landscape have survived — there are several species missing from the study because they're extinct. But the recovery of 10 highlights how much the nation once looked before European settlement. 'It's incredible how that country would have been so different back then. I think people drive through the desert and think there's nothing out there, but they've just changed so much over the last 150 years,' Moseby said. Moseby isn't just sad that Australia has changed so dramatically and that few people are aware more species like the carnivorous kowari and greater bilbies are continuing to decline in numbers. She's mostly angry. In her decades of studying Australia's rare and endangered creatures, she hasn't seen any 'political will' to save those that have survived the initial wave of settlement, and the cocktail of threats that continue to suppress them. The country is famous for wiping out the Tasmanian tiger, very nearly killing off the koala, and it is notable for having the worst mammalian extinction record in the world. Rare colour footage of extinct Australian animal seen again after 90 years Major weather event sees town overrun by 'rarely observed' phenomenon Once common 'extreme' genetic change unlikely to occur again in human history Director Stephen Spielberg famously recreated a "Lost World" in his movie franchise about bringing dinosaurs back from extinction. The pre-colonial landscape in Australia hasn't yet been lost, but extinction threats are mounting, including climate change, which is heating parts of the desert to uninhabitable levels. 'We know what we need to do. It makes me really frustrated that we could be doing so much more – we can improve land condition, reduce grazing, increase our control of cats and foxes, and improve fire management. We've done the research,' Moseby said. 'We know what we need to do, but it seems like we're banging our heads against a wall, because these things just don't get taken up.' Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week's best stories.
Zawya
04-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Rwanda to Restore Ecosystems and Boost Climate Resilience in the Nyungwe–Ruhango Corridor
Communities in Rwanda's Southern Province are set to benefit from restored ecosystems, improved agricultural productivity, and expanded sustainable livelihood opportunities in areas vulnerable to climate-related shocks. Thanks to a newly approved $9 million grant from the Global Environment Facility, Rwanda will receive support for integrated landscape restoration and climate-smart land management across the Nyungwe–Ruhango Corridor. The Ecosystem-Based Restoration Approach for Nyungwe-Ruhango Corridor Project is one of 20 projects of the GEF-8 Ecosystem Restoration Integrated Program (ERIP) across the globe. ERIP scales up ecosystem restoration efforts by transforming degraded lands into thriving ecosystems and promotes private sector engagement and South-South exchange across the beneficiary countries. Conservation International is the ERIP lead agency. ' This project reflects the strong partnership between the World Bank and the Government of Rwanda in building climate resilience and driving inclusive green growth,' said Sahr Kpundeh, World Bank Country Manager for Rwanda. ' It aligns with our Country Partnership Framework and global priorities on climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and empowering local communities to lead sustainable change.' The Rwanda GEF-8 will support the rehabilitation of 2,162 hectares of forests and wetlands, promote sustainable land management practices across 8,931 hectares of farmland, and help develop income-generating activities that reduce pressure on fragile ecosystems, directly benefiting more than 289,000 people in Ruhango, Nyanza, and Nyamagabe Districts. The project will contribute to the World Bank Group's core objective of creating more and better jobs to reduce poverty and unlock economic opportunities, especially for the youth. Early estimates suggests that the project could generate over 2,200 jobs through sustainable livelihoods interventions. These include the development of non-timber forest product value chains, fruit tree planting, and support for small businesses in the green economy. The project will also engage the private sector to explore investment opportunities that promote climate-smart land use and sustainable forest management. ' This is a timely intervention that combines ecological restoration with community resilienc e,' said Tuuli Bernardini, Senior Environmental Specialist at the World Bank. ' By centering the role of women, youth, and local enterprises in landscape management, the project supports inclusive development and paves the way for scalable nature-based solutions.' Implemented by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), the project adopts a landscape-based approach to address environmental degradation, food insecurity, climate risks, such as floods and landslides; threats that disrupt infrastructure, destroy crops, and deepen poverty in the Southern province. At its core, the Rwanda GEF-8 aims to restore ecosystems that provide critical services such as erosion control, flood regulation and habitats for biodiversity. Key interventions will include afforestation, reforestation, riverbank and wetland rehabilitation and the promotion of agroforestry and other climate-smart agricultural practices. The Rwanda GEF-8 forms part of a broader suite of World Bank-supported investments in conservation and sustainable land management along the Congo-Nile divide covering parts of the Northern, Western, and Southern Province. These include the Volcanoes Community Resilience Project and Commercialization and De-Risking for Agricultural Transformation Project. Building on lessons from Rwanda's earlier efforts such as the Landscape Approach to Forest Restoration and Conservation (LAFREC), these initiatives align with the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), and are expected to deliver significant outcomes in biodiversity conservation, resilience building and improved community livelihoods. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.
Sustainability Times
01-07-2025
- General
- Sustainability Times
Toronto's Stunning Green Revolution Turns Canada's Largest Metropolis Into a Vast Urban Forest Visible From Space
IN A NUTSHELL 🌿 Toronto has transformed former industrial sites into lush urban forests, serving as a model for sustainable urban development. has transformed former industrial sites into lush urban forests, serving as a model for sustainable urban development. 🌍 The city is recognized by the UNEP for its efforts in urban ecosystem restoration, part of the Generation Restoration project. for its efforts in urban ecosystem restoration, part of the Generation Restoration project. 🏞️ With over 186 miles of trails, Toronto's urban forests and wetlands provide recreational and biodiversity benefits. 🤝 A robust legal framework and community engagement underpin the city's success in integrating nature into urban planning. Toronto, the bustling metropolis with a population of around 3 million, stands as Canada's largest city and North America's fastest-growing urban center. Amidst the concrete jungle, Toronto has managed to create an exceptional blend of urban living and nature. Just a few miles from the city's vibrant downtown core lies the Don Valley Brick Works, a former quarry transformed into a thriving wetland. This urban sanctuary, home to a diverse range of wildlife including ducks, foxes, and even deer, exemplifies Toronto's dedication to integrating nature into its urban fabric. This dedication has earned the city recognition from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as a model for urban ecosystem restoration. Transforming Urban Spaces into Natural Sanctuaries Toronto's transformation of the Don Valley Brick Works is a testament to its commitment to restoring natural spaces within urban environments. Over three decades, what was once a barren quarry became a lush wetland, fringed by residential and commercial developments. This urban oasis is part of a broader effort to weave nature into the city's fabric. The UNEP has recognized this initiative as part of its Generation Restoration project, which promotes ecosystem restoration in urban areas worldwide. By prioritizing the restoration of natural spaces, Toronto has set a precedent for other cities looking to balance urban development with environmental sustainability. The impact of these efforts is profound, with urban forests and wetlands moderating temperatures, purifying air, and providing recreational opportunities for city residents. The Role of Urban Forests and Wetlands Toronto's urban forests and wetlands play a crucial role in the city's sustainability strategy. The city boasts over 186 miles of maintained trails and canoe-able rivers, offering residents ample opportunities to connect with nature. The network of ravines and valleys, covering about 27,000 acres or 17 percent of the city's area, serves as a natural flood mitigation system. These areas not only absorb rainfall but also support a rich biodiversity. The urban forest, comprising approximately 11.5 million trees, includes species such as sugar maple and white pine, providing habitat for various bird species. By preserving these natural spaces, Toronto has created a resilient urban environment that promotes biodiversity and enhances the quality of life for its residents. Legal Frameworks and Community Engagement Toronto's success in urban ecosystem restoration is underpinned by a robust legal framework and active community engagement. The city has implemented laws and regulations that prioritize resilience and biodiversity, including bylaws that preserve street trees and incentivize sustainable development. Community involvement is key to maintaining these natural spaces, with initiatives that encourage residents to participate in tree planting and maintenance activities. The city also collaborates with Indigenous communities, drawing on traditional land stewardship practices to restore ecosystems. Through these efforts, Toronto not only protects its natural heritage but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility for the environment. A Global Model for Urban Restoration Toronto's achievements in urban ecosystem restoration have positioned it as a global model for sustainable urban development. As part of the UNEP's Generation Restoration project, the city collaborates with other cities around the world to share best practices and innovative solutions. This global network includes cities like Montreal and Glasgow, each implementing unique strategies to restore and protect their natural environments. Through international collaboration, Toronto is helping to build a global movement towards integrating nature into urban planning. The city's experience demonstrates the potential for urban areas to thrive alongside nature, offering valuable lessons for cities worldwide. Toronto's commitment to urban restoration serves as an inspiring example of how cities can balance growth with environmental sustainability. By prioritizing the integration of natural spaces, the city has created a vibrant, livable environment that benefits both residents and wildlife. As urban populations continue to grow, how can other cities learn from Toronto's success to create sustainable, nature-rich urban landscapes? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (23)
Fast Company
14-05-2025
- General
- Fast Company
These stunning photos show how nature came back after the world's largest dam removal project
It's been less than a year since the world's largest dam removal project was completed along 420 miles of the Klamath River, near the border of Oregon and California. But if you look at the river now, you might not know that four dams had ever been in place. Instead of concrete walls and artificial reservoirs, the river is now free-flowing—and parts of the former infrastructure have been replaced by wildflowers that are in bloom. 'It's been an incredible transition,' says Ann Willis, California regional director at American Rivers, a nonprofit that supported Native American tribes in a decades-long fight to take out the dams. 'It's really strange and wonderful to stand on the bridge that goes across the Klamath River and look upstream where Iron Gate Dam used to be. I used to imagine a river above it, and now I see the river.' The dams were built between 1918 and 1962 to provide hydropower, and immediately blocked salmon from migrating. Over time, the ecosystem started to collapse. By 1997, coho salmon in the river were listed as endangered. (The river was once the third-largest salmon fishery in the continental U.S.) In 2002, when the federal government diverted water to farms instead of letting it flow downstream in the river, tens of thousands of salmon died. Local tribes like the Yurok—who have lived by the river for at least 10,000 years, and who consider salmon a central and sacred part of their culture—started the long fight to take out the dams. Beyond the direct impact on fish, the dams impacted the larger environment as the flow of nutrients down the river stopped. Willis compares dams to a blockage in human arteries that eventually lead to a heart attack. 'When you put a dam in a river, there's an entire living network of things that depends on the flow of the river—the patterns and relationship of the river and its flow with the land around it,' she says. 'When you block it, you start this long process of decline. That's the bad news. The good news is one of the fastest ways to resuscitate a river and its surrounding ecosystem is to simply remove the dam.' The advocacy was a challenge. But the tribes and environmental groups behind the campaign were helped by the fact that it was ultimately more expensive for the power company to keep the aging dams in place than to get rid of them. The power that the dams provided was also relatively easy to replace, since it made up only 2% of the utility's power generation. (The utility's overall plan to meet power needs includes more investment in renewable energy, more energy efficiency, and a small amount of natural gas.) In 2016, after years of negotiation, the power company transferred the dams to a nonprofit in charge of their removal. In 2022, the federal government greenlit the plan, which had a cost of around $450 million, funded both by California state bond money and by utility customers. The dams were taken out in phases, with the smallest removed in 2023 and the rest last year, all carefully timed to avoid disrupting fish that might try to swim through the area. First, the reservoirs were drained. Then demolition crews blew up larger concrete structures. Dump trucks cleared away rocks, dirt, and sand, returning some of the material to the hillsides it was carved out of decades ago. Plans for restoring plant life started earlier. A crew of primarily Yurok tribe members began collecting seeds from native flowers and trees in 2019. Most of the seeds went to nurseries, where they were grown in fields to produce more flowers and even more seeds. 'There were over 2,000 acres that needed revegetation,' says Joshua Chenoweth, an ecologist who worked with the Yurok tribe on the project. 'Because it's so large, you can't collect enough seed to just throw it back on the landscape.' The crew eventually spread billions of seeds using a variety of methods, from hand-planting to using a helicopter in areas where it was too dangerous to walk. Right now, the hills are covered in California poppies and a mix of other plants. 'The hand-seeding exceeded my wildest expectations,' Chenoweth says. The fish also came back faster than scientists expected. 'The dam removal was officially complete on September 30,' says Willis. 'The first salmon was detected swimming upstream into that ancestral habitat in three days, which was just shocking. Then, within a month, 6,000 salmon were detected swimming upstream. I don't think anyone expected this quick of a response at this really large scale.'
