In Kananaskis Country, located west of Calgary, Alberta, tensions are rising over industrial activities such as a planned clear-cut logging operation. Despite the area's design for coexistence of industry and nature, advocates from Take A Stand for Kananaskis are concerned about the environmental impacts. Nearby in Canmore, the Three Sisters Mountain Village development is controversially set to double the town's population, following a 31-year legal battle and a $161 million lawsuit against the town by the developer. The Narwhal's Drew Anderson is monitoring these developments as part of the broader conversation about land management in the Rockies.

Canada experienced a record-breaking wildfire season in 2023, with 6,517 fires burning 18.5 million hectares of land. Experts warn that climate change is disrupting the natural fire cycle, leading to more frequent and severe wildfires. This could permanently alter Canada's boreal forests, which serve as significant carbon sinks. Strategies such as national coordination, Indigenous-led prescribed burning, and rethinking community planning are suggested to mitigate future risks. The transformation of forests from carbon sinks to carbon sources could exacerbate climate change, creating a feedback loop. Immediate and long-term investments in forest management are crucial.

The City of Edmonton has launched its 2024 construction season with over 200 planned infrastructure projects, including transportation, facility, LRT expansion, and open space projects. Key projects include the Warehouse Park, Centennial Plaza, Yellowhead Trail freeway conversion, and Valley Line West LRT. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi and city officials emphasize the importance of these projects for the city's growth and appreciate residents' patience during construction. The initiatives are part of the City Plan, aiming to prepare Edmonton for a population of two million.

Hundreds gathered in Toronto for Earth Dreams, an event organized by Nocturnal Medicine to address climate anxiety through a sensory experience. The event featured meditative journeys, dancing, and moments of contemplation, aiming to help participants process their feelings about climate change. Key figures like Larissa Belcic and Michelle Shofet of Nocturnal Medicine, and Dr. Duke Redbird of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, contributed to the event. Attendees shared their experiences of climate grief and the importance of community in addressing these emotions.

Hundreds gathered in Toronto for Earth Dreams, an event organized by Nocturnal Medicine to address climate anxiety and eco-grief through a sensory experience. The event featured meditative journeys, collective solidarity, and moments of contemplation. Key figures like Larissa Belcic and Michelle Shofet from Nocturnal Medicine, and Dr. Duke Redbird from the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, contributed to the event. Attendees shared their feelings about climate change, emphasizing the importance of community and emotional processing in facing environmental crises.

The proposed Highway 413 in Ontario is a contentious project that would connect Vaughan and Milton, cutting through significant environmental areas and farmland. While the Progressive Conservative government argues it will alleviate traffic congestion, opponents highlight the potential environmental damage and question its efficacy. The article features perspectives from various stakeholders, including ecologists, truck drivers, farmers, and activists, reflecting the broader debate on urban development, environmental conservation, and transportation infrastructure in southern Ontario.

Earth Dreams, an urban gathering in Toronto organized by Nocturnal Medicine, aims to help people confront climate change and celebrate possibilities for Earth's future. The event, described as a meditative party, provided a space for collective solidarity, dancing, and contemplation. Attendees, including artists, designers, and therapists, shared their experiences of climate grief and anxiety, emphasizing the importance of community and emotional processing in fostering action and connection to the environment. The event featured poetry and performances, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between humans and the Earth.

In Toronto's High Park, the Turtle Protectors initiative, led by Carolynne Crawley and supported by Jenny Davis and Amyris Rada, has successfully protected turtle nests during the cherry blossom season, which coincides with midland painted turtle hatchling season. The Indigenous-guided stewardship program, which began a year ago, has saved 27 nests in its first year and 47 in the current year. The group is advocating for a name change of 'Cherry Blossom Hill' to 'Hatchling Hill' to foster a deeper connection between the public and the land. Crawley, a member of the Turtle Clan, emphasizes the importance of monitoring turtle populations and fostering a relationship of reciprocity with 'animal relatives' as part of a broader effort towards reconciliation.

Earth Overshoot Day marks when humanity's demand for ecological resources exceeds Earth's capacity to regenerate. Earthships, off-grid homes designed by Michael Reynolds, address six basic needs including heating, cooling, and water harvesting. Craig and Connie Cook, a retired couple in Ontario, built their Earthship in 2014 and describe it as the best house on the planet. They rely on solar, wind, and rain for energy and water, significantly reducing their ecological footprint. Terrylynn Brant, founder of Mohawk Seedkeepers, built an Earthship garden to teach sustainable farming. The Earthship community has grown to approximately 3,000 worldwide, offering a potential solution to housing and climate challenges.

On January 30, 2023, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision rejecting the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) policy requiring drug manufacturers to distribute discounted drugs to an unlimited number of contract pharmacies under the 340B Program. The court found that the statute does not support HHS' stance, allowing manufacturers to limit drug distribution channels to mitigate drug diversion risks. This decision sets a precedent for drug manufacturers but leaves open questions about future disputes and state-level protections for contract pharmacies.

The article highlights the systemic racism and biases faced by Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) in cancer care. It shares personal stories of individuals like Charlene and Michelle Audoin, who had to advocate for themselves to receive proper diagnoses and treatment. The article underscores the higher mortality rates and advanced cancer stages often seen in BIPOC patients due to delayed diagnoses and institutional biases. It calls for more inclusive healthcare practices and addresses the broader social determinants of health that contribute to these disparities.

In 2021, Hong Kong saw significant developments in the fight against illegal wildlife trade, including a historic amendment to the Organised and Serious Crimes Ordinance (OSCO) and the impact of COVID-19. Despite these changes, wildlife trafficking persists, with authorities yet to apply the new OSCO powers. The largest-ever smuggling bust in September 2021 highlighted the ongoing issue, with shark fins making up a significant portion of the seized goods. Experts emphasize the need for effective implementation of the OSCO bill, increased collaboration among governmental departments, and the use of forensic science to combat wildlife crime. The future of Hong Kong's illegal wildlife trade remains uncertain as global COVID-19 restrictions ease.

Hong Kong customs executed their largest-ever bust of a speedboat smuggling gang, seizing HK$120 million worth of luxury goods, including watches, handbags, shoes, endangered animal parts, cosmetics, wines, whiskey, and cigars. The operation, which targeted a gang smuggling goods into mainland China, revealed the sophisticated methods used by smugglers, including drones and decoy speedboats. The pandemic has exacerbated smuggling activities due to travel restrictions, leading to a significant increase in seized goods. Officials highlighted the economic incentives driving the smuggling trade, given the tax disparities between Hong Kong and China.

Hong Kong's top court has ordered media tycoon Jimmy Lai back into custody, questioning a previous decision to release him on bail. Lai, a prominent democracy activist, faces charges under the national security law imposed by Beijing. The court's ruling highlights concerns over the law's impact on freedoms and the judiciary's independence. The case has drawn significant attention, with various stakeholders, including the Law Society and state-controlled media, expressing differing views on the matter.

Hong Kong's top court has remanded media tycoon Jimmy Lai in custody until another bail hearing on February 1. Lai, a prominent democracy activist, is charged under the city's national security law and was previously released on bail with extensive restrictions. The legislation, imposed by Beijing, is criticized for eroding freedoms in Hong Kong, a claim denied by authorities in Hong Kong and China.

Relatives of the 12 Hong Kong individuals detained by China while attempting to flee to Taiwan by boat have requested a 20-day notice for their trial to ensure their attendance. The detainees face charges related to anti-government protests and are awaiting trial in Shenzhen, with two minors having private hearings. The families have expressed concerns over the possibility of a 'secret trial' due to the pandemic and have been denied access to the detainees, who are represented by state-appointed lawyers. The justice system in mainland China, unlike Hong Kong's independent judiciary, is known for its high conviction rates and loyalty to the Communist Party.

Relatives of the 12 Hong Kong individuals detained by China while attempting to flee to Taiwan by boat have requested a 20-day notice prior to their trial to ensure their attendance. The detainees face charges related to anti-government protests and could receive up to seven years in prison. The relatives expressed concern over the possibility of a 'secret trial' due to pandemic restrictions and have been denied access to the detainees, who are represented by state-appointed lawyers. The justice system in mainland China, unlike Hong Kong's independent judiciary, is known for its high conviction rates and loyalty to the Communist Party.

A rare patch of mangroves in the Pearl River delta, particularly in Hong Kong's Mai Po Nature Reserve, is showing signs of recovery despite global trends of mangrove loss. This recovery is attributed to stronger ecological recognition and improved management. However, challenges such as urban development and pollution persist. Conservation efforts, including protected areas and restoration projects, are crucial. The cooperation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen in mangrove conservation exemplifies successful scientific exchange. The article underscores the importance of continued efforts to prevent the disappearance of this vital coastal ecosystem.

A rare patch of mangrove forest in the Pearl River delta, particularly in Hong Kong, is showing signs of recovery after years of degradation. The Mai Po Nature Reserve, protected under the Ramsar Convention, plays a crucial role in this success. However, urban development and pollution continue to pose significant threats. Experts emphasize the need for proper monitoring, policing, and the use of suitable local species for planting. Cooperation between scientific communities, such as the partnership between Mai Po Nature Reserve and Shenzhen Futian Mangrove Ecological Park, is essential for the continued recovery and conservation of mangroves.

A rare patch of mangrove forest in the Pearl River delta, protected by the Mai Po Nature Reserve, is showing signs of recovery despite global trends of mangrove loss. The article highlights the ecological benefits of mangroves, such as coastal erosion prevention, typhoon damage mitigation, and carbon storage. It underscores the importance of protected areas and restoration projects, emphasizing the need for proper monitoring and scientific cooperation, exemplified by the partnership between Mai Po Nature Reserve and Shenzhen Futian Mangrove Ecological Park. Experts caution against over-optimism due to ongoing urban development and pollution challenges.

The article reviews the best and worst fashion choices at the Golden Globes, highlighting standout looks and fashion flops. Jessica Chastain and Lena Dunham's gowns were criticized for poor fit and heaviness, respectively. In contrast, Anne Hathaway, Kerry Washington, and Jennifer Lawrence received praise for their elegant and stunning appearances. The article anticipates more fashion highlights as the awards season progresses towards the Oscars.

A recipe for making brownies in the microwave, titled 'Brownies A La Anytime', is presented as a quick and easy way to enjoy this dessert with minimal equipment and cleaning. The recipe includes simple ingredients and offers variations for different textures. It is a student-written article from the Her Campus at Stanford chapter.