https://nordictimes.com/environment/logging-in-sweden-may-have-worsened-the-flood-disaster/

Environment

Logging in Sweden may have worsened the flood disaster

Published September 17, 2025 – By Editorial staff

Montage. Photo: facsimile/SVT, iStock/Jonas Rönnbro

A freight train carrying ammunition and diesel derailed after the heavy rainfall.

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The Swedish Forest Agency has warned for several years that logging near infrastructure increases risks during flash floods. Now an analysis shows that logging may have partially contributed to the recent disasters in Västernorrland, northern Sweden.

In recent weeks, flash floods in Västernorrland, a county in northern Sweden, have caused chaos in society. A large number of roads have been destroyed, trains carrying hazardous goods have derailed, and one person has died as a result of the disasters. In Kramfors, for example, 123.5 millimeters of rain fell in one day, which is the highest recorded in September since 1913 - according to statistics from SMHI (Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute).

One of the causes behind the chaos may be Swedish forestry, according to an analysis conducted by the Swedish Forest Agency. Two of the worst disasters in Västernorrland have occurred in areas where large amounts of forest have been logged in recent years, shows the data that Bonnier publication DN has accessed.

One disaster occurred outside Härnösand, where a man drove into a crack in a destroyed road and died. The other disaster involved a freight train that derailed in Skorped by a lake, where the train contained ammunition and diesel among other things.

The Swedish Forest Agency has warned that extensive logging can affect vital societal functions for several years, especially when it occurs on steep slopes. In several reports submitted to the Swedish government, the agency has raised this issue, but nothing has happened.

— We have warned about the risks for a very long time and it seems to be exactly what we're seeing examples of now. We need to do a proper analysis of cause and effect clearly, but based on what we know about how logging affects runoff, it looks problematic, says Anja Lomander, soil specialist at the Swedish Forest Agency.

"Must change quickly"

Forest logging can cause runoff to double during flash floods, since the trees are not there to both catch water in the tree crowns and absorb it through the roots, something that is particularly risky on steep slopes. Vehicle tracks and ditches also make it easier for water to flow down, and these types of logging operations have increased in Sweden in recent years.

Lomander believes there is a lack of both knowledge and resources in the area, and that current regulations mean the Swedish Forest Agency's reviews of forest owners' logging notifications are insufficient.

— It must change quickly so that no more lives are lost and so that the costs to society don't become enormous, she says.

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https://nordictimes.com/environment/houseplants-that-thrive-in-nordic-winter-darkness/

Environment

Houseplants that thrive in Nordic winter darkness

Published November 15, 2025 – By Editorial staff

Montage. Photo: Joni Tuohimaa, cottonbro studio/Pexels

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When winter darkness descends over the Nordic region, it's not just people who are affected – but also our houseplants. However, for those who choose wisely, there are plants that manage excellently in dark conditions.

The darkest time of the year is now beginning, which can mean more challenges for plant enthusiasts. Many houseplants require their fair share of sunlight, something that's in short supply during the Swedish winter.

It's good to give your houseplants some extra thought during winter. Among other things, you should avoid fertilizing spring and summer flowering plants because they need to rest during the dark period. However, foliage plants can receive their dose of nutrients now and then. Feel free to move the pots when it's time to air the room, as they dislike cold drafts.

Plant lighting can sometimes be preferable in winter, depending on how much light you can offer the plants and of course what type of plant it is. Some plants also benefit from a shower with a water spray to maintain humidity.

Having plants at home has numerous health benefits, including helping to purify the air of harmful substances and reducing stress. For those who want to avoid expensive plant lighting, worry, or simply want easy-care plants, there are quite a few that tolerate some darkness, as reported by Land.se, a Swedish gardening publication.

Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Easy-care is definitely a word to describe the golden pothos. It grows quickly, is rarely attacked by pests, and has survival instincts in winter. Not only that – it can also reduce levels of chemical gases indoors. The plant sap can be irritating, so it should be kept at a safe distance from children, dogs, and cats.

Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina)

Photo: In Memoriam: Andy / Andrew Fogg/CC BY 2.0

This tropical tree prefers no drafts and not too much sun, but has low light requirements. Don't forget watering – the weeping fig becomes unhappy if you do.

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)

Montage. Photo: Outi Marjaana, Elena Golovchenko/Pexels

This beautiful plant is known for its ability to purify air of harmful substances, something that NASA, among others, has researched. In that study, they concluded that the plant can reduce the toxic substance benzene by as much as 79.5 percent in just 24 hours.

In another study conducted by researchers at the University of Birmingham, three common houseplants were tested, including the peace lily, to see if they could help remove air pollutants in the home. All three plants proved effective against air pollutants, removing about half of the nitrogen dioxide they were exposed to – in just one hour.

The peace lily is easy to care for and can tolerate dark conditions. The plant can bloom year-round, but if it stands in too much darkness, flowers may naturally be absent until spring.

ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

This green, stately plant is actually called zamioculcas, and in Sweden often goes by the name "garderobsblomma" (closet flower) – because it can be kept anywhere, even in a closet. It tolerates both bright and dark conditions as well as different temperatures, simply adapting to its surroundings.

Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata)

In the past, it was common for these plants to be passed down from generation to generation – that's how resilient the snake plant is. It's also perfect for those who don't have much time to care for their plants, as it doesn't require much water. Rather, you should be careful not to overwater it. It tolerates both sunlight and shade, but the leaf colors may change depending on light levels. This plant is also excellent at purifying air.

Jade plant (Crassula ovata)

Despite its African origin, this plant is exceptionally suitable for the Nordic climate. It can tolerate temperatures from 30 degrees Celsius down to zero. It also stores water in its leaves and stem, so you shouldn't water too much.

Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

This plant is also known for absorbing harmful substances from the air, but is also an excellent humidifier. It doesn't make great demands on its caretaker but is both resilient and rarely complains. It's best if it can remain at room temperature year-round.

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https://nordictimes.com/environment/the-great-moose-migration-reduces-stress-and-anxiety/

Environment

“The Great Moose Migration” reduces stress and anxiety

Published November 14, 2025 – By Editorial staff

Photo: iStock/pum_eva

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Swedish public broadcaster SVT's nature program helps millions of viewers relax and feel connected to nature – despite the experience being digital, shows a study from SLU.

The Great Moose Migration is a program that annually livestreams the spring migration of moose in Kullberg in Ångermanland, northern Sweden. For 20 days, viewers follow the moose as they travel through forests and swim across the Ångerman River. The program attracts millions of Swedes each year, as well as viewers in other countries.

Now researchers at SLU (Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences) have examined how viewers are affected by the moose program. Through surveys distributed via social media and the program's live chat, over 2,000 people have described their experiences. The results, published in the journal People and Nature, show that the program creates a strong sense of calm and connection to nature.

— Viewers describe how the sound of wind, birds, and rain gives a feeling of presence, and how the slow rhythm of the broadcast helps them unwind. Many experience that the program reminds them of childhood memories, previous nature experiences, or places they have a personal connection to, says researcher Minh-Xuan Truong in a press release.

Relieves anxiety

The program is a typical example of so-called "slow TV", where viewers simply follow the moose at nature's pace without any narrator, quick cuts, or dramatic music.

What makes the experience so realistic is primarily the natural sounds. The river's murmur, birdsong, and the whisper of wind create a feeling of actually being at the location. Some viewers even reported that they could smell the rain or pine forest.

The fact that the program is unedited is also appreciated. Sometimes animals are visible, sometimes not – just like when hiking in the forest in real life.

The study shows that the silence, slow images, and nature's beauty function as a break from everyday stress. Several participants in the survey described how the program relieves headaches and anxiety, while others emphasized the calming effect of seeing animals in their natural environment.

Does not replace real nature experiences

Viewers generally report feeling a strong connection to nature. The feeling was particularly pronounced among people who frequently spend time outdoors and are environmentally engaged. The connection to nature also tended to increase with age. The live chat during the program is also appreciated, as many experience that it creates a sense of community.

The researchers emphasize that digital nature experiences can never replace being outside yourself, but that they can function as an important complement.

— Digital outdoor life seems to be able to promote recovery and connection to nature in a similar way to experiences in actual nature. It can of course never replace real nature experiences, but it can be an important complement, especially for people who have difficulty getting outside, said Truong.

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https://nordictimes.com/environment/chinas-emissions-may-have-peaked-massive-investment-in-renewables/

Environment

China’s emissions may have peaked – massive investment in renewables

The modern China

Published November 6, 2025 – By Editorial staff

Photo: The Nordic Times

Aerial view of a solar power park installed by the state-owned Chinese energy company China Huadian Corporation (CHD) in the Gurbantunggut Desert, Xinjiang region in northwestern China.

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China accounts for over 30 percent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions, but is simultaneously investing more than any other country in renewable energy and electric vehicles. New figures suggest that Chinese emissions may have peaked earlier than expected.

China emits an estimated 15.6 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalents (carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases) annually, making the country the world's single largest emitter. But behind the figures, a comprehensive transformation is underway, reports AFP.

Chinese electricity production is still dominated by coal, which accounts for nearly 60 percent of generated power. But massive installations of renewable energy are rapidly changing the picture. China now has 1,482 gigawatts of installed solar and wind power capacity and aims to increase its capacity sixfold from 2020 levels to 3,600 gigawatts by 2035.

According to analysts' assessments, the goal is realistic – in fact, so realistic that the country may reach it earlier than planned. During 2024, China added significantly more than the 200 gigawatts per year that would be required to meet the target.

Electric vehicles taking over the market

In the automotive market, the transition has been even faster. Nearly half of all new cars sold in China during 2024 were either electric or plug-in hybrids. The country accounts for over 70 percent of global electric vehicle production and has, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), become the world leader in the field.

President Xi Jinping has stated that vehicles with "new energy" should become mainstream in the Chinese market – a goal that has essentially already been achieved.

Electric cars dominate new car sales in China, with prices that can be around €20,000 lower than European equivalents. Photo: The Nordic Times

Emissions may have peaked

In September, China presented concrete numerical targets for emission reductions for the first time: a reduction of 7–10 percent by 2035.

Some observers believe that Chinese emissions have already reached their highest level, or are close to doing so, thanks to the rapid expansion of renewable energy and nuclear power. Beijing has previously committed to reaching peak emissions by 2030 at the latest and to being "carbon neutral" by 2060.

In China, debate about the downsides of wind power is not common, and large amounts of wind power have been installed in desert areas and offshore in recent years.

Editorial staff
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https://nordictimes.com/environment/income-level-found-to-influence-garden-biodiversity/

Environment

Income level found to influence garden biodiversity

Biodiversity

Published October 27, 2025 – By Editorial staff

Photo: Emiel Molenaar/Unsplash

Researchers see gardens as a potential tool for preserving biodiversity as global diversity declines.

Editorial staff
editorial@nordictimes.com

Households with lower incomes tend to have more biodiversity in their gardens, according to a study from North Carolina State University in the United States. People with higher incomes prefer neatly mowed lawns instead.

In the study, published in HortScience, researchers examined attitudes toward biodiversity in the United States. They surveyed over 2,000 people and looked at whether they had any innate appreciation for biodiversity, something called biophilia.

The results showed that far from all people had an innate appreciation for biodiversity, and it varied greatly between individuals. However, it was not uncommon for it to develop early in life.

Biodiversity is declining globally and climate goals are often not met. Therefore, researchers have begun to see gardens as a tool for preserving plant and animal life. But to succeed, they must first understand who is willing to let their gardens grow wilder.

— While a single person’s garden isn’t going to do much individually, as a collective they could be a big part of conserving biodiversity. The question then becomes; how do you get those people to change their gardens in that way? says Vanessa Woods, doctoral student at NC University, in a press release. To do that, you must first identify the people who are receptive to these more natural gardens with greater biodiversity.

Income plays a role

The most important factor for biophilia was income level, the researchers conclude. The higher the income, the less inclined people were to have more biodiversity in their garden, preferring neatly mowed lawns.

The lower the income level, the more positively disposed people were to a more wild-grown garden. Households with an income below $25,000 per year showed the greatest interest in biodiversity. Additionally, people who lived more environmentally friendly lifestyles were also more open to a garden that promotes biodiversity.

Melinda Knuth, lead researcher and associate professor at North Carolina State University, believes it is important to identify those who are attracted to biodiversity in order to bridge the gap between intention and conservation actions.

— To do that, you first need to identify the people who will be receptive to those messier, more biodiverse types of gardens, she says.

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