Disturbing news that an invasion by tens of thousands of sapphire prospectors is endangering the unique wildlife in Madagascar's rainforests (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/apr/02/sapphire-rush-threatens-rainforests-of-madagascar). Madagascar, because of its long geographical isolation, has many unique plants and is home to major concentrations of lemurs ('primitive' primates). The gem stone finds are impressive and, as usual, people find it difficult to resist the allure of getting rich quick (even if the unique biodiversity is more 'saleable' in the long-term).
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Monday 3 April 2017
Going Mad in Madagascar
Disturbing news that an invasion by tens of thousands of sapphire prospectors is endangering the unique wildlife in Madagascar's rainforests (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/apr/02/sapphire-rush-threatens-rainforests-of-madagascar). Madagascar, because of its long geographical isolation, has many unique plants and is home to major concentrations of lemurs ('primitive' primates). The gem stone finds are impressive and, as usual, people find it difficult to resist the allure of getting rich quick (even if the unique biodiversity is more 'saleable' in the long-term).
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