With the lure of the supposed status acquired by keeping cranes in a private garden or shopping centre, a demand is created for cranes, which places pressure on the wild populations. Many unsuspecting people then become involved in illegal trade, as they find birds quite readily available.

Despite the fact that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process on access and fuel storage for Vele is still under way and a water license has not been approved, Coal of Africa Limited has recently been awarded ‘unconditional new order mining rights’!

Wetlands are critical ecosystems and their capacity to provide goods and services is increasingly diminished as a result of human activities.

Wind energy is a very welcome addition to the South African energy mix, and is far ‘cleaner’ than coal-fired energy generation. However, this does not mean that it is without environmental impacts.

This months FREE desktop backgrounds are of two gracious White Rhino and a Flap-neck Chameleon. Both will brighten up your desktop in February!