In a significant environmental crisis, the SNCF in France is facing backlash over plans to illegally cut down numerous trees along the Canal Latéral in Toulouse. Scheduled from November 9 to 11, 2024, this operation is part of a broader railway project that threatens local biodiversity, including protected wildlife habitats.
Environmental groups have raised alarms, arguing that the SNCF's actions violate the French Code of the Environment, which mandates explicit permission for such tree removals. Activists are now occupying the trees to prevent the destruction, emphasizing the need to protect the local ecosystem and calling for immediate intervention from regional authorities.
Meanwhile, in South Australia, the state government has launched the 'Stolen, Smuggled and Suffering' campaign to combat the illegal trade of native wildlife. This initiative aims to educate the public about the legal responsibilities associated with wildlife ownership and to encourage reporting of illegal activities.
With wildlife trafficking being the fourth-largest organized crime globally, the South Australian government is taking a stand to safeguard its unique biodiversity. The campaign highlights the importance of community involvement in protecting native species and emphasizes that illegal wildlife ownership can lead to severe penalties.
Both events underline the urgent need for global action to protect flora and fauna from destructive practices and illegal trading that threaten biodiversity and ecological balance.