climate change impactlatest news & developments
The clear signs of human-induced climate change reached unprecedented levels in 2024, with some consequences expected to be irreversible for centuries

World Meteorological Organisation warns of irreversible climate deterioration

Rising sea levels, ocean heat and the highest atmospheric carbon levels in 800 000 years point to a climate crisis that’s escalating rapidly

  • Sheree Bega
8 min read
A chain-forming diatom, a common type of phytoplankton, found in the New York Bight area. (NOAA)

Climate models underestimate global phytoplankton decline, study warns

A CSIR study analysing 26 years of satellite data reveals how ocean warming is significantly reducing ocean productivity

  • Sheree Bega
6 min read
The tragedy in Los Angeles serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of the climate crisis. (File photo)

Lessons for South Africa from the Los Angeles wildfires

Last month, South Africa reported a 96% rise in wildfire incidents compared with December 2023

  • Des Erasmus
4 min read
African penguins, endemic to Southern Africa, are one of the most threatened seabird species globally and they face the risk of extinction in the wild by 2035. Populations have shrunk by 90% in the past 70 years, dwindling to about 8 500 breeding pairs today.

Africa’s only penguin moves closer to extinction

The seabirds were recently moved to critically endangered status, meaning drastic action has to be taken to save them from being wiped out

  • Sheree Bega
6 min read
Johannesburg mayor Dada Morero. (Lubabalo Lesolle/Gallo Images)

Dada Morero: Joburg is facing a severe water crisis

The executive mayor blamed drought but water experts say the city’s reservoir levels are ‘leaking to critical thresholds’

  • Sheree Bega
5 min read
The survey found that although the proportion of respondents who are connected to piped water remains high (92% in 2023-24), the percentage of respondents who believe their water is “always clean” declined from 75% in 2020-21 to 60% in 2023-24. (Photo by Phill Magakoe / AFP)

Over half of Gauteng residents fear water shortages as quality of life hits record low

Gauteng City-Region Observatory survey finds 55% of Gauteng households are affected by extreme environmental events

  • Sheree Bega
7 min read
Cape Honey Bee Julie Anne Workman: https://animalia.bio/cape-honey-bee

Cape honey bees the guardians of South Africa’s food security

Honey bees are invaluable to the environment and the economy, and their protection is essential

4 min read