From October 1 to 4, a collaborative effort by SКОПСКО and the diving club 'Amphora' successfully removed a total of 3,856 meters of abandoned fishing nets, known as 'ghost nets,' from the bottom of Lake Ohrid. This initiative, part of the platform 'Our Pride. Our Responsibility,' highlights the ongoing commitment to protect biodiversity and preserve natural resources in North Macedonia.
'Ghost nets' pose a significant threat to the fragile ecosystems of Lake Ohrid, endangering fish populations and protected species. Regular cleaning actions are essential to prevent the accumulation of these nets, which can have serious long-term impacts on biodiversity and the local economy. The success of this recent action is a testament to the dedication of local organizations to environmental preservation.
Meanwhile, in Italy, the Ispra has released an environmental atlas that mandates the restoration of urban ecosystems starting in 2031, in line with the EU's Nature Restoration Law. This law requires member states to restore at least 20% of degraded terrestrial and marine areas by 2050. Over 28% of Italian municipalities are obligated to restore urban areas, with additional efforts needed in agricultural, forestry, coastal, marine, and fluvial domains.
Moreover, the report indicates that 2023 was the second hottest year since 1961, with a notable decrease in annual precipitation, particularly affecting western and central regions of Italy. These climatic changes necessitate urgent restoration efforts to combat the effects of climate change and promote sustainable practices.
In Kenya, the Nyekweri Forest, a crucial habitat for various wildlife species, has faced severe deforestation, with over 50% of its area cleared in the last two decades. This loss has heightened human-wildlife conflicts, especially with elephants, leading to fatalities. Recent initiatives, including the establishment of new conservancies funded by conservation organizations, aim to protect this vital ecosystem by providing landowners with incentives to preserve rather than exploit the forest.
The challenges of deforestation in Nyekweri illustrate the importance of community engagement in conservation efforts. The potential for Maasai-led conservancies to promote sustainable practices and reforestation is significant, yet achieving this requires addressing historical grievances and providing competitive benefits for local landowners.