PLANET IN PERIL

Centre for International Environmental Law Ground sprayer. PinP photo. A new analysis exposes how the American and European pesticide industry is using ongoing EU-US trade negotiations to lower human health and environmental standards in order to increase trade in toxic pesticides.  Details here.

A\J Alternatives Journal A new study predicts a marine mass extinction – but there's still time to prevent it.  Story here.

CommonDreams Situation described as 'unfolding catastrophe' as investigation finds oil drilling companies injected untold amounts of waste into protected groundwater reserves. Story here.

theguardian Kichwa communities along an Amazon tributary, string cables to stop oil company boats from passing. They accuse government of turning a blind eye to contamination from oil operations in the forest. Story here.

The Canadian Press WASHINGTON - A large majority of Americans support labeling of GMO foods, whether they care about eating them or not. Story here.

by Larry Powell In the face of fierce, even ugly opposition from the head of "CropLife" Canada, Ted Menzies, t he Government of Ontario is doing the right thing.  Ontario's Liberal government has moved to restrict the use of "CropLife's" bee-killing insecticides known as neonicotinoids, or "neonics." The NDP government of Manitoba, on the other hand - one which often likes to cloak itself in a "green" mantle of environmentalism - is remaining silent. It has done nothing to curb their unlimited use. It doesn't even have the guts to admit it. Over two months ago, I emailed these two ministers (environment and agriculture, respectively),  to ask if they may take action similar to Ontario's.                                             At the time of this posting, I've had no response!    Government by neglect!

CBC News Alberta's energy regulator fingers hydraulic fracturing as likely cause of 'quake. Story here.

Related: " Free Trade: Path to Prosperity - or Back Road to Corporatism? "

ClimateProgress Residents of developing nations may soon be struggling with yet another challenge -malnutrition fueled by the decline of pollinators around the world. Details here. Bumblebees on chives. PinP photo.

Common Dreams Something doesn't compute here. Story here.

INTER PRESS SERVICE A report by the Montpellier Panel – an eminent group of agriculture, ecology and trade experts from Africa and Europe – says about 65 percent of Africa’s arable land is too damaged to sustain viable food production. Story here.