Feature Article

Earth’s climate is warming as a result of anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2) from fossil fuel combustion. Anthropogenic emissions of non-CO2 greenhouse gases, such as methane, nitrous oxide and ozone-depleting substances (largely from sources other than fossil fuels), also contribute significantly to warming. Some non-CO2 greenhouse gases have much shorter lifetimes than CO2, so reducing their emissions offers an additional opportunity to lessen future climate change.

Chris Funk explains how his group last year forecast the drought in Somalia that is now turning into famine — and how that warning wasn't enough.

Quantitative real-time observations of a tsunami have been limited to deep-water, pressure-sensor observations of changes in the sea surface elevation and observations of sea level fluctuations at the coast, which are essentially point measurements. Constrained by these data, models have been used for predictions and warning of the arrival of a tsunami, but to date no detailed verification of flow patterns nor area measurements have been possible. Here we present unique HF-radar area observations of the tsunami signal seen in current velocities as the wave train approaches the coast.

Europe has been at the forefront in the use of solar energy. Experiences of Spain in particular should offer vluable lessons on introducing policy changes for India.

Use of the veterinary drug diclofenac is responsible for bringing three species of Gyps vultures endemic to South Asia to the brink of extinction, and the Government of India banned veterinary use of the drug in May 2006. To evaluate the effectiveness of the ban we undertook surveys of . 250 veterinary and general pharmacies in 11 Indian states from November 2007 to June 2010.

Thermal power plant industries produce million tonne flyash (after burning of coal) each year which consists of fine particles of unburnt raw materials and some trace elements. Generally, most common practice regarding management of this ash is making slurry of it with water and disposing in ash dyke. Although it is a temporary process, due to leaching of metals, surrounding ground water and soil may get contaminated. So, proper maintenance and regular examination of the ground water and soil quality is necessary.