This week brought important developments for the planet, including global ocean conservation, a new greenwashing law, reduced Amazon deforestation, and a promising cancer drug.
Chile is due to be the first country to ratify a global agreement to protect one third of the world’s oceans. The treaty was signed by 84 countries last September, and the speedy ratification by Chile puts pressure on other nations, who one hopes will similarly follow through on their promises.
In important news for consumers, the EU has approved a law to combat greenwashing. Until now, “eco buzzwords” have often been used as marketing ploys for products whose sustainability claims are vague, misleading, or even unfounded. The directive, which will take effect in two years’ time, will make sure manufacturers cannot continue such practices, in an effort to increase environmental accountability.
There is also better news for the planet’s biodiversity, in the form of reduced Amazon deforestation. In 2023, it fell by half in the Brazilian Amazon, down from 10,278 sq km in 2022 to 5,153 sq km. Such a reduction may provide hope that, by prioritizing the environment, it is possible to achieve the necessary balance between human consumption and planetary wellbeing.
Finally, in a development that could have real-world benefits for cancer patients, a promising child Leukaemia treatment – which is said to be gentler than chemotherapy – may soon be more widely available. A study led by London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital found that the drug Blinatumomab offered treatment for children diagnosed with B-Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia with fewer side effects than chemotherapy. Although UK guidelines currently restrict the use of the drug, clinical trials are expected to investigate if it can be made more widely available
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