World 'failing' on pledge to stop deforestation by 2030

23 Sept 04:24 Key points summarised by AI

Global deforestation increased by four percent last year, with 6.6 million hectares lost, significantly derailing the 2021 pledge by over 100 countries to halt and reverse forest loss by 2030.
This failure has severe implications for maintaining a livable climate and critical habitats, as forests are vital carbon sponges and biodiversity strongholds.
While some countries like Brazil, Indonesia, and Malaysia showed reductions in forest loss, these gains are fragile and threatened by new policies or shifts in focus to other ecosystems.
Experts call for stronger global action, including increased funding for forest protection and ending subsidies to sectors like agriculture that drive deforestation, warning of devastating global consequences if current trends continue.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.