PLANET IN PERIL

INTER PRESS SERVICE Manitoba sunset. PLT photo WASHINGTON (IPS) - A confluence of factors could make 2013 the most fruitful opportunity in years for potentially major action on climate change, according to a leading voice on climate change policy, the British economist Nicholas Stern. Full story here.

United Nations The United Nations says it's 'regrettable' that the Government of Canada is withdrawing from the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) , the only legally binding instrument that addresses desertification, land degradation and drought. Details here. Related story:  Desertification Too Important For Canada To Ignore - Suzuki

CBC News Alberta scientist calls for research on fish malformations in Lower Athabasca River. Details here.

CBC News Chat over beer generates lower-cost way to make hydrogen from water. Details here.

CBC Radio A retired federal researcher based in Saskatoon is going public with concerns Ottawa is muzzling scientists like her.  Details here.

Not exactly the harbinger of spring we look forward to most. I spotted this "gopher," actually a Richardson's ground squirrel, in a field near Roblin, (western) Manitoba today. PLT photo.