Current Events Blog Week 1

China's Pollution

Rising pollution in China is taking its toll on the health of its citizens. Beijing raised its air pollution alert to orange, the second highest on a four-tiered system, a few weeks ago. China's smog has sent many with minor health issues flocking to the hospitals, it has shut down schools and roads, and has concealed Beijing's tallest building to the point where it is no longer viable from a distance.The picture above indicates the drastic change. The picture to the left shows Beijing on a day in 2005 after it had rained, the picture on the right shows a sunny but smog filled day. Many citizens now need to wear masked any time they must step outside, and things are becoming more and more drastic. According to Wikipedia, only 1% of the countries 560 million city dwellers is considered safe by the European Union. China is pouring billions into trying to better the situation, but for now, China remains engulfed in the smog.

Ukraine Revolution

Pro-Ukrainian activists have been beaten by pro-Russian groups at a rally in Crimea's city of Sevastopol. A BBC reporter reports they had been attacked with whips, describing very ugly scenes. During the protest, one Russian man was "kicked to the ground, bleeding". The Russians tried to get their revenge not long after by smashing a driver's windshield, who was trying to flee the scene. The a Ukrainian was dragged into the bushes, kicked and whipped by the furious mob. Even the reporters on the scene were threatened. Meanwhile leaders from Russia, the UK and Germany held urgent talks on the phone to discuss the crisis in Ukraine. The US warned Moscow that any moves to annex China would close the door to diplomacy.  

California Drought California is undergoing its worst drought in history, with less rain than any point sense 1850. Rivers are at record lows and melted snow off the mountains is only at 20% of its expected levels. California Politicians have recently announced a $687 million plan to provide help to communities parched by California's ongoing drought. Under the plan, food assistance and short term help would also be provided. However, many argue that long term water-needs need to be addressed. Such as building water reservoirs. Not to mention the impact the drought will have on America's much needed crops coming out of California.  

Citations

China's Pollution:
"China media:Pollution woes." BBC NEWS China. N.p., 24 2 2014. Web. 9 Mar 2014. <http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-26319180>.

Ukraine Revolution:
"Ukraine Activists Attacked in Crimea." BBC NEWS Europe. N.p., 9 3 2014. Web. 9 Mar 2014. <http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-26503478>.

California Drought:
"California governor unveils drought assistance plan." BBC NEWS US & Canada. N.p., 19 2 2014. Web. 9 Mar 2014. <http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-26268177>.