?? ClimaGazzette: AI predicting Species extinction, Dugong conservation and Climate Change-induced loss of language.

?? ClimaGazzette: AI predicting Species extinction, Dugong conservation and Climate Change-induced loss of language.

Welcome to ClimaGazzette, your weekly climate change newsletter that brings you the latest updates and thought-provoking insights. In this issue, we tackle three critical topics that highlight the urgency and complexity of our environmental challenges this week. ??

First we will explore how AI is used to develop a Machine- learning model to predict ecological cascades of Species Extinction. It can predict which species are likely to?go extinct if a predator or prey is introduced or removed from an ecosystem.

Next we will explore how conservation efforts for Sea Mammal-?Dugongs are being undertaken at Tamil Nadu’s Wildlife Sanctuary. Dugongs are herbivore mammals which are essential for the functioning of Marine ecosystem. We find a connection between Climate Change and Loss of Languages because of it.?????

At ClimaGazzette, we aim to keep you informed, engaged, and inspired to impact our planet positively. Join us as we navigate the challenges and opportunities climate change presents. Together, let's strive for a more sustainable future. ??


?? Safeguarding species with the help of AI ??????

In the intricate web of species interactions, the predictive prowess of AI takes centre stage. A century after Yellowstone National Park's wolf extinction altered its ecosystem, contemporary AI models could foresee such consequences. Scientists have harnessed machine learning to anticipate the species most vulnerable to extinction following changes in predator-prey dynamics. The research lays out a framework for gathering species interaction data and training algorithms to anticipate "extinction cascades." The AI model hinges on the critical link between species interactions and ecosystem health. By maintaining the delicate equilibrium of food webs, ecosystems can thrive.

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The machine- learning model developed by scientists at Flinders University. Image courtesy Llewelyn, et al.

John Llewelyn, lead researcher and fellow in paleoecological network modelling at Flinders University , affirms that many historical and forthcoming extinctions stem from these interactions. As invasive species upset new areas, understanding their impact on natives aids prioritised conservation efforts. The model, rigorously tested in Australia's Simpson Desert, accurately predicted predator-prey dynamics, even involving introduced species. Although the scarcity of interaction data poses challenges, the AI's potential to guide conservation strategies is promising. By bolstering its predictions with additional modeling approaches, the path to a more harmonious ecosystem becomes clearer. ????


???? India's Dugong Sanctuary: A Haven for Marine Balance in a Changing Climate ?? ??


In the azure waters off India's Tamil Nadu state lies a unique conservation endeavor - the country's first-ever dugong sanctuary. Anchored in the Palk Bay area of the Gulf of Mannar, this reserve safeguards the last remaining dugongs, the only herbivorous marine mammals globally. Dugongs, classified as vulnerable by the IUCN, have a unique relationship with seagrass. Their browsing on seagrass keeps it healthy by preventing excessive algae growth, while the seagrass helps mitigate climate change by producing oxygen, cleaning coastal waters, and offering a buffer against sea-level rise and natural disasters.

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It's estimated that only about 250 dugongs remain off India's coastline. Image: Keystone/dpa/picture alliance

Commercial fishing trawlers and poaching pose threats to this delicate ecosystem. Overfishing diminishes seagrass beds, impacting dugongs' habitat and local fisheries.?Poaching for dugong meat adds another layer of danger. However, efforts by the Wildlife Institute of India highlights the value of coexisting with these marine treasures. As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, the sanctuary serves as a reminder that safeguarding unique ecosystems not only preserves biodiversity but also offers tangible solutions to mitigate the changing climate's impacts. In protecting the dugong, we embrace the essence of coexistence - a melody that resonates for generations to come.


???? Language Erosion Amidst Environmental Upheaval: How Climate Change Impacts Linguistic Diversity ?????

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In the shadow of climate change's far-reaching consequences lies a lesser-known casualty: the loss of languages. Environmental disasters are orchestrating a quiet exodus, uprooting communities, and endangering linguistic diversity. The passing of Pauline Stensgar, the last fluent speaker of the n?xa?m?x?ín? language in Washington State, highlights the vulnerability of languages in the face of forced migration. In regions deeply impacted by environmental crises like South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific, some of the world's most linguistically diverse countries stand vulnerable. For instance, Papua New Guinea, with its nine million inhabitants speaking 839 languages, faces the endangerment of 313 of those languages.

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Illustration: Pariplab Chakraborty

These sobering numbers intensify in these regions where over one-third of endangered languages persist, often within small geographic confines and with dwindling speaker numbers. Forced displacement driven by climate-triggered disasters echoes a history of past migrations that had already compromised languages in regions like the US and Australia. This unsettling trend continues as over 108 million people were uprooted in 2022 due to environmental crises, disproportionately affecting areas rich in linguistic heritage, such as South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific. The intricate dance between climate change, migration, and language loss paints a stark reality: preserving languages is intertwined with safeguarding the planet. ???????


??Climec Labs in Spotlight

Amidst August's backdrop, Climec Labs has subtly emerged into the limelight, marked by their noteworthy achievement. Following their recognition at the City Champions Summit, Climec Labs has garnered a prominent feature in 'Dina Kural' a highly regarded Tamil daily newspaper with a circulation of 80,000 copies and an estimated readership of 200,000 based in Chennai.

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Climec Labs featured in Tamil daily newspaper 'Dina Kural'

The newspaper quoted “Climec lab aspires to educate people on the merits of inhaling fresh air and create awareness of their company across cities in India. Experts opine that the activities of Climec labs could increase the lifespan of an average person by 5 years by ensuring sustainability and combating climatic changes.” The article further highlights Climec Labs' ambitious goal: to remove 1 Billion Metric Tonnes of CO2 by 2030.

The encouraging feedback we received motivates us to enhance our efforts towards accomplishing our mission!


?? What is ClimecLabs reading this week?

  • How To Plan A Low Emissions Vacation:?Click Me
  • Climate change may turn Thar Desert green:?Click Me


Thank you so much, readers, for sticking to the end of the Newsletter! We hope you liked our curated content and will continue to support us as we go forward. Did you like our newsletter? How about sharing it with your friends?

We at Climec Labs are fighting for cleaner air in India.

We have developed an ergonomic and portable air purifier that protects you from those evil chokers using its HEPA and Activated Carbon filters.?? It comes with aesthetic AQI-based lighting that keeps you in the know of your room's air quality, all while being the best desk/car buddy you've always wished for. ??

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Alleviating the quality of air you breathe, one breath at a time.

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Rajeeva Kumar

Chief General Manager- Head Environment , very passionate for green solutions and pollution mitigation

1 年

Thought provoking ideas and earnest sensitization to the world community at large of the ensuing effects of climate change is definitely a positive step towards building climate resilient and sustainable future indeed

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