PLANET IN PERIL

Western Producer Operations in phosphorus-deficient areas of the central Canadian province may be allowed to build new barns without anaerobic digesters. Story here.

OnEarth New research shows a certain type of milkweed can harm monarchs—but they still need something to snack on. Story here. Photo credit - OnEarth.

iPolitics “Courage is contagious.” With that saccharine bromide, Peter Mansbridge ended a pep talk he gave to a conclave of investigative reporters in Manitoba several months ago. Story here.

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? "