insert_link South Africa South African Human Rights Commission calls for immediate ban on harmful pesticides The South African Human Rights Commission is calling for an immediate ban on harmful pesticides, particularly Terbufos, after reports of food contamination and serious health risks. This follows the deaths of more than 20 children last year, linked to Terbufos. The commission’s Wisani Baloyi says Parliament’s portfolio committee on Agriculture has agreed to take action: today13 February, 2025
Environment Scientists study levels of toxic mercury in Antarctic mammals Marine biologists collect skin samples from humpback whales and leopard seals in Antarctica to detect the presence of mercury in their bodies. The toxic heavy metal is believed to reach the ocean through rivers or rain. According to the UN environmental agency UNEP, if an animal consumes mercury, it may suffer "reproductive failure, behavioural changes and may even (die)." today21 February, 2024