A joint resolution issued by a gathering of land and natural resource-based organizations and forest communities in Liberia signifies the growing unease surrounding the potential impacts of carbon trading and offsetting on their way of life. As custodians of the forests, they call for government intervention in the form of comprehensive policies and laws to regulate carbon emissions and protect the environment. Their collective voice is a powerful plea for the preservation of their communities and the forests of Liberia.
Background
Liberia, home to vast tracts of pristine forests, has emerged as a potential hub for carbon trading and offsetting. However, concerns are rising among land and forest communities over the potential impacts of these activities on their livelihoods and the environment.
Carbon trading involves the buying and selling of permits that allow entities to emit carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. Offsetting refers to investments in projects that reduce or absorb carbon emissions, such as preserving forests.
In Liberia, organizations representing land and forest communities have come together to express their unease about carbon trading and offsetting. They argue that these measures could lead to the commodification of their lands and forests, with potential negative consequences for their traditional practices and cultural heritage.
Joint Resolution
In a recent joint resolution, the organizations called on the Liberian government to intervene and establish comprehensive policies and laws to regulate carbon emissions and protect the environment. They emphasized the following key points:
Impacts on Communities
Land and forest communities in Liberia rely heavily on their traditional lands for sustenance, income, and cultural identity. They fear that carbon trading and offsetting could disrupt their way of life in several ways:
Government Response
The Liberian government has acknowledged the concerns raised by land and forest communities. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced plans to develop regulations for carbon trading and offsetting. These regulations will aim to address the following concerns:
FAQs
1. What is carbon trading? Carbon trading is the buying and selling of permits that allow entities to emit carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.
2. How does carbon offsetting work? Carbon offsetting involves investments in projects that reduce or absorb carbon emissions, such as preserving forests or developing renewable energy sources.
3. What are the concerns of land and forest communities in Liberia? Communities fear that carbon trading and offsetting could lead to land grabbing, restrictions on traditional practices, and unfair contracts.
4. How is the Liberian government responding? The EPA is developing regulations for carbon trading and offsetting aimed at ensuring community participation, environmental protection, and social impacts.
5. Is carbon trading a viable solution to climate change? While carbon trading and offsetting can contribute to reducing emissions, they should not be used as a substitute for systemic changes that reduce fossil fuel use and promote sustainable practices.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu met in New Delhi to discuss strengthening their bilateral relationship. India announced an aid package of USD 400 million and INR 30 billion as a bilateral currency swap agreement to support Maldives' economy during this challenging time. Both leaders also agreed to further measures to enhance economic and maritime security cooperation between the two countries.
The European Union's recent vote to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles has sparked fears of retaliation from China, with concerns that Beijing could target individual European countries such as France. The decision to impose tariffs came after China launched an anti-dumping probe earlier this year, which concluded that dumping had occurred but opted not to impose tariffs. However, this latest move by the EU could provoke China into reversing their decision, causing concern for French cognac producers who may be targeted in retaliation.
On October 8, 2024, India will celebrate the 92nd Indian Air Force Day, commemorating the establishment of the Indian Air Force and honoring its servicemen and pilots who have sacrificed their lives for the country. The celebrations will take place in Chennai, with major attendees including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. The theme for this year's celebration is 'Bharatiya Vayusena: Saksham, Sashakt aur Aatmnirbhar', highlighting the IAF's commitment to self-reliance and modernization. From its humble beginnings as an auxiliary force, the Indian Air Force has transformed into one of the most formidable air forces in the world, playing crucial roles in both military operations and humanitarian missions. Let us honor and salute the bravery and dedication of the IAF personnel on this special day.
On the one-year anniversary of an attack on Israel by Hamas, Pope Francis addressed a letter to Catholics in the Middle East, expressing his solidarity with those who are suffering due to ongoing conflict in the region. To show support, the pope called for a day of prayer and fasting and also prayed a rosary for peace at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. In response, participants of the ongoing Synod on Synodality in the Vatican have also been echoing the pope's call for prayers and solidarity with the war-ravaged communities of the Middle East. Deacon Adel Abolouh, a synod delegate from Syria, described attending the pope's rosary as a "beautiful experience" that inspires people to become "missionaries of peace."
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet in the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The accused, Sanjoy Roy, was the only person arrested in connection with the crime. The CBI has also arrested five others in relation to the case, including the former principal of the hospital and a former officer-in-charge of a police station, for tampering with evidence. The agency is also investigating financial irregularities at the medical college and hospital. In the meantime, resident doctors continue their hunger strike and plan to hold a rally to demand justice and address their concerns.
In a red carpet welcome, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to support the progress and prosperity of the Maldives as President Mohamed Muizzu made his first state visit to the country. The visit marks a new chapter in the two countries' ties, which had been strained after Muizzu's election and his promised to oust Indian troops. During the visit, discussions were held on issues such as energy, trade, and defense cooperation, as well as the announcement of financial support for Maldives' struggling economy. Muizzu expressed gratitude for India's assistance in addressing foreign exchange issues.
Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad, a 51-year-old priest from Kerala, India, has been elevated to the rank of Cardinal by the Vatican. He is responsible for organizing Pope Francis' international travels since 2020 and joined the Vatican Diplomatic Service in 2006. Koovakad has held various roles in Apostolic Nunciatures in Algeria, South Korea, Iran, Costa Rica, and Venezuela before becoming an official in the Vatican's Secretariat of State. The formal ceremony for the creation of these Cardinals is scheduled for December 8, on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
An Israeli strike in Tripoli, Lebanon and continued bombardment in Beirut's suburbs have intensified the already volatile situation in the region. With Hezbollah claiming Israeli troops were trying to infiltrate a Lebanese town and uncertainty over the fate of a key Hezbollah figure, tensions are at an all-time high. Meanwhile, Iran's oil minister says he is not worried about possible attacks on oil facilities, but India is keeping a close eye on developments and urged for resolution through diplomacy.
Israel continues its military strikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut, hitting Hezbollah weapons storage facilities. This comes after the Israeli military killed a Hezbollah commander and issued new evacuation orders in southern Lebanon. tensions between Israel and Iran continue to escalate as Iran resumes flights after a temporary cancellation due to Israeli threats of retaliation for their missile attack. This conflict is a year after the deadly Hamas attacks that rocked Israel in 7 October.