Green matters. Episode 12

Description

Illegal Wildlife- The African elephant are endangered--and the biggest threat could be right in our midst. Ordinary people are unwittingly encouraging the illegal wildlife trade, unaware the trinkets and souvenirs they buy are made from endangered species. Mexico Ethanol- The quest for cleaner fuels has caused a boom in biofuel production worldwide. In the United States corn-based ethanol production has risen steadily, and consequently the country has reduced its exports of corn as a food product. In neighbouring Mexico, where corn is a food staple, the shortage has bitten hard, and the government has moved quickly to lift local production. Mexican farmers, who have struggled to make a living, are happy to increase their crop yields. Rwanda Gorilla Naming- At a wildlife park in Rwanda, thousands of residents turned up for an event involving international celebrities and the nation's leaders. In a traditional ceremony, 23 endangered baby mountain gorillas were given names, celebrating their addition to a population that now stands at a mere 700. Hong Kong Eco-Coffins- Around seven million people squeeze onto the island that is one of the most densely populated areas in the world--Hong Kong. So with space at a premium and pollution a growing problem, a recent exhibition showcased some greener solutions for making one's final departure. UK Public Transport- Transport produces around 25% of the UK's emissions and is the largest source of air pollution in London. The average London rush-hour speed is just eleven kilometres per hour. Fear of a city slowed to gridlock led to a 'congestion charge' on cars entering the central zones. The toll has played a part in persuading drivers onto public transport. Bus and rail journeys have grown by nearly two percent since 2005. Animal Nurse- Inside Jakarta's Ragunan Zoo is the home of head zoo-keeper, Achadiat Suparman Effendi, or as everyone calls him, Maman. For almost 25 years he's cared for the animals and, like many hard workers, his job spills into his home life. Low Carb City- When this quiet city in southern Sweden decided to get rid of fossil fuels back in 1996, most outsiders thought it was just a quirky local initiative. But the world is finally waking up to climate change and now Vaxjo attracts a stream of international politicians, scientists and business leaders, keen to learn about its environmental programme.

Runtime

23 min

Series

Subjects

Genre

Date of Publication

2009

Database

Alexander Street

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