Mohini Barman

In a bold step to curb carbon emissions, France has officially banned short-haul domestic flights where train alternatives under 2.5 hours exist. This includes popular air routes such as Paris to Lyon and Nantes. The law, passed under the country’s Climate and Resilience Bill, aims to push travellers toward the country’s extensive high-speed rail system. The policy has been met with praise from environmental groups, though airlines expressed concerns over revenue losses. French officials say this could reduce domestic flight emissions by nearly 12%. Countries like India and Bangladesh—with growing intercity air networks and rail revamp plans—could evaluate similar models…

The southern United States is battling a record-breaking heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 45°C in Arizona, Texas, and Nevada. The US National Weather Service issued red alerts in over 12 states, urging people to stay indoors and avoid strenuous activity. Hospitals reported a spike in heat-related illnesses, and emergency cooling centers have opened in major cities. Climate experts say this is part of a larger pattern of intensifying heatwaves due to global warming. The news has relevance for countries like Bangladesh and India, where similar heatwaves are becoming more frequent. Regional disaster management agencies are advised to study US mitigation…

In a bold public health move, France has banned the sale of disposable e-cigarettes, commonly known as “puffs.” The ban, which will be enforced from September 2025, follows rising concerns over nicotine addiction among teenagers. The French Health Ministry cited data indicating a surge in underage vaping, driven by the availability of flavored, easy-to-conceal vape products. The move is supported by doctors and anti-tobacco groups, who argue that vaping is becoming a gateway to cigarette smoking. France becomes one of the first EU countries to impose a full ban on disposables. Meanwhile, policymakers in Bangladesh and India, facing similar trends,…

A massive wildfire has engulfed over 40,000 acres in central California, marking the state’s earliest major fire event in years. Fueled by dry vegetation and intense winds, the “Pine Creek Fire” forced evacuation orders in three counties, including parts of Fresno and Tulare. Over 2,500 firefighters are on the ground, supported by helicopters and air tankers. Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency and requested federal assistance. The fire, burning through steep terrain, threatens wildlife corridors and energy infrastructure. Experts blame prolonged drought and climate change for the intensity. Fire incidents like this are becoming common in the…

Brazil’s environmental agency, IBAMA, has shut down over 50 illegal gold mining operations in the Amazon rainforest. The crackdown followed months of surveillance revealing unlicensed deforestation, mercury pollution in rivers, and human rights violations involving Indigenous communities. Backed by drones and military helicopters, the raids mark a renewed push by President Lula’s government to protect the rainforest from extractive industries. Environmentalists welcome the move but call for sustained oversight. South Asian conservationists, especially in India and Bhutan, have drawn parallels with illegal mining in forest zones near national parks, emphasizing the need for technology-driven monitoring systems.

The state of California has declared a state of emergency after over a dozen major wildfires erupted across northern and central regions, burning more than 400,000 acres. Firefighters are battling flames under triple-digit temperatures and dry winds, with over 15,000 residents already evacuated. Governor Gavin Newsom has requested federal aid as the fires threaten infrastructure and national parks. Climate scientists attribute the intense fire season to prolonged droughts and rising global temperatures. South Asia, including parts of central India and Nepal, is closely monitoring this crisis, as wildfire patterns begin affecting Himalayan forest belts as well—prompting calls for international collaboration…