The Newest Place on Earth – First Pictures

Late last year, in the sparkling blue of the South Pacific, a huge volcanic eruption produced the newest island on Earth. Images have emerged of the island’s surface, 45km (28 miles) north-west of Tonga’s capital, Nuku’alofa.

NOAA Expands California Coastal Sanctuaries

Cordell Bank and Gulf of the Farallones national marine sanctuaries off northern California will both more than double in size following a final rule released today by NOAA. The expansion will help to protect the region’s marine and coastal habitats, biological resources and special ecological features.

Safeguarding Africa’s Wetlands a Daunting Task

African wetlands are among the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the continent, covering more than 131 million hectares. Yet, despite their importance and value, wetland areas are experiencing immense pressure across the continent.

Powerful Cyclone Pam Hits Tiny Nation of Vanuatu

A category 5 cyclone blew over islands in the Pacific’s Vanuatu archipelago late Friday after a westward change of course put populated areas directly in the path of its destructive 270 kilometer- (168 mile-) per-hour winds.