Saving the world's remaining rainforests would be a bargain

Saving the world's remaining rainforests would be a bargain
Rules against deforestation are usually strict, but seldom enforced. (Image: Depositphotos)
The Economist
Profits from chopping down rainforests are surprisingly meagre. The land is not particularly fertile. A freshly cleared hectare of the Amazon fetches an average price of only around US$1,200 (NZ$1,940). By contrast, the social costs of clearing it are immense. Some 500 tonnes of carbon dioxide are pumped into the atmosphere. By a conservative estimate, that does US$25,000 (NZ$40,500) of harm by accelerating climate change.Yet still the world’s trees are disappearing. The area covered by primary rainforest has dwindled by 6.7% since 2...

More World

Scott Technology sells big into Europe, North America
Economy

Scott Technology sells big into Europe, North America

The Dunedin based robotics firm has found new success in the European market.

How uni newbies beat Boeing in anti-drone battle
Technology

How uni newbies beat Boeing in anti-drone battle

Sound-wave device shows minnows can out-shine defence giants.

Heat pump sales slide. What's happened?
Technology

Heat pump sales slide. What's happened?

Misinformation, cheaper gas, building downturn among reasons.

Giorgio Armani at 90: ‘Work is the best medicine’
Style & fashion

Giorgio Armani at 90: ‘Work is the best medicine’

Icon shows no signs of slowing, with a hit runway show and 'a little palace'.