Policy Update May 2017

The bark side: domestic dogs threaten endangered species worldwide

Cats have a bad reputation as wildlife killers (deservedly so). But dogs aren't off the hook: new research shows domestic dogs have contributed to the extinction of at least 11 species.

Are the Paris Soil Carbon Sequestration Goals Unrealistic?

The goal to offset rises in atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations by increasing soil carbon storage by 4 per mille (0.4%) per year is unrealistic, say scientists in a new article
Link to article - http://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/acs.est.7b01427

Goods that are 'too pretty to use' could have big effect on sustainability

Could we help save the Earth by making everyday consumables more beautiful?

Making Bins More Convenient Boosts Recycling and Composting Rates

Apr. 21, 2017 — Want to recycle or compost more? Try moving the bins closer, new research suggests. The study shows that placing bins 1.5 meters away from suite doors drastically boosts ...

GIS: A Powerful Tool to Be Used With Caution

A recent study provides a new perspective on the severe impacts of escalating climate change on the heritage resources of Canadian Arctic. Referring to the application of Geographic Information System analytical methods in assessing the threat of shoreline erosion to archaeological sites, it details steps taken to review the quality of the GIS model in light of a discrepancy with rates observed during actual survey visits.
Link to article - https://www.degruyter.com/view/j/opar.2017.3.issue-1/opar-2017-0001/opar-2017-0001.xml