This article from Swiss Info highlights a study recently published in the journal Nature Geoscience by McGill University scientists. The article described the relationship between climate change and ocean oxygen depletion that results in so called “dead zones” (estimated at 15% of oceans). The predicted global temperature rise of at least 2 degrees over the coming 80-100 years is predicted to increase the severity and extent of these oxygen-depleted zones, having a very significant impact fish, shrimp, molluscs populations and other marine life that depend on oxygen rich water.  Apart from environmental consequences, there are expected to be significant economic implications for fisheries, which already face pressures from over-fishing. According to the map that accompanies this article, “dead zones” are concentrated around the equator, the Indian Ocean and along the Pacific Coast of North and South America, from Alaska to Chile.

To read the entire article, click here.

This February 2nd article from UPI, cites researchers from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), and describes the decline of Yellow Cedars along Coastal Pacific Northwest of North America. Researchers argue that these old-growth Cedars are at risk of extinction because of changing weather patterns induced by global climate change. Their research shows that late Winter and early Spring snow packs have decreased in volume, exposing the Cedars’ shallow network of roots to freezing temperatures. The article also notes that a loss of Yellow Cedar not only has economic implications in the region, being a valuable tree in forestry sectors of British Columbia and Alaska, but there are cultural implications as well. Coastal First Nations have historically used Yellow Cedars for ceremonial, household and commercial purposes.

To read the entire article, click here.

This article from the Guardian cites research around the world that suggest old growth trees, such as those found in the Pacific Northwest, and their local ecosystems are more susceptible to the impacts of climate change. The article notes that “prolonged attack[s] from [increased wind turbulence], severe droughts and new pests and diseases” are killing these wooden goliaths, and as a result, impacting their ability to produce seedlings, provide habitat and moderate local micro-environments.

To read the whole article, click here.

This article by AlertNet (Thomson Reuters) discusses the impacts of climate change on maize production in Argentina, and efforts by researchers to replace hybrid varieties with traditional ones that are expected to be much more adaptable to severe weather events such as droughts. This will prove to be a challenge for the Nation, one of the world’s biggest maize producers and exporters, as current production is dominated by hybrids and domestic consumers have all but forgot about traditional, local varieties.

To read the whole article, click here.

1. To develop the capacity needed to undertake feasibility studies or to engage with industry and other clean energy stakeholders.
2. To acquire equity share positions in projects or to undertake community-based projects.
3. To share in the revenues of clean energy projects based on new, net or incremental revenues to government derived from water rentals, land rents and eventually wind participation rents.

The next deadline for the Fund is February 29, 2012.

If your community is interested in applying for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund, Ecolibrio is happy to assist you with your application and in the development of a clean or alternative energy project.

Ecolibrio, in collaboration with the Xeni Gwet’in First Nation, has begun development of a land use and governance policies consistent with ecosystem-based management principles to aid in managing their traditional caretaker area.  The community has already identified key human use zones and developed maps consistent with ecosystem-based and traditional values.  What remains to be done is to develop land use policies for key human activities and governance options to ensure good management.

John Lerner, principal of Ecolibrio, recently presented a summary of climate adaptation planning results in the Clayoquot Sound (link to report summary). The report, “Climate Change Adaptation in the Clayoquot Sound” is a climate adaptation action plan for the Hesquiaht, Ahousaht and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations is the result of two years consultation and research as well as a blend of traditional knowledge and science-based knowledge.

The conference (http://www.unutki.org/default.php?doc_id=186), held in Mexico City, brought indigenous and non-indigenous experts from around the world to share their experiences with role that indigenous knowledge is playing and might continue to play in adapting to climate change. Input from the meeting is expected to contribute to the next IPCC report.