Climate change role in July heatwaves 'overwhelming', scientists say

13 Sept 14:12 Key points summarised by AI

Scientists confirm human-induced climate change played an "absolutely overwhelming" role in the extreme July heatwaves across North America, Europe, and China.
These record-breaking heat events would have been "extremely rare" or "virtually impossible" without the effects of human-caused climate change, making China's heatwave 50 times more likely.
Rising greenhouse gas concentrations significantly intensified the heatwaves, making Europe's 2.5C hotter, North America's 2C hotter, and China's 1C hotter than they would have been.
The extreme heat caused widespread devastation, including forest fires, water shortages, increased hospital admissions, and severe damage to global crops and livestock.
Experts warn that such prolonged periods of extreme heat will become increasingly common, potentially occurring every 2-5 years, if global temperatures rise 2C above pre-industrial levels, underscoring the urgent need to cut fossil fuel emissions.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.