HORIZONS

Affects of climate-change: THERE should be fewer deaths due to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases as warmer winters become more the norm due to climate change. However, higher levels of skin cancer are predicted as summer temperatures increase, according to a new report on climate change and health in Ireland.

Heavier rainfall and flooding is expected to put pressure on poorly managed water-treatment systems, which may result in unsafe drinking water, according to the Seventh Scientific Statement from the Royal Irish Academy, released earlier this week. The authors wish to encourage local authorities and health agencies to protect those most vulnerable.

Birdwatching courses

OFTEN described as spellbinding, Ireland’s most south-westerly point at Mizen Head is the location for two courses next month which should appeal to nature- lovers. Mike Cobley from Birdwatch Ireland will lead a birdwatching day on March 7th in the area famous for gannets, kittiwakes and choughs (the north-south migration path of such birds is just a mile offshore).

Dr Richard Unitt from the department of geology at University College Cork will give an introduction to geology on March 21st. See mizenhead.ie or tel: 028 35225.

Fairtrade goes bananas

UNDER Fairtrade rules, farmers in developing countries receive agreed stable and sustainable prices for their produce, as well as an extra payment to invest in their community or organizations. Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs from Monday until March 8th, aims to highlight the huge range of fair-trade products on sale here, many of which are promoted through a network of more than 60 Fairtrade towns.

And check out fairtrade.ie/gobananas to join in the Fairtrade banana-eating record attempt between noon on Friday, March 6th and noon on Saturday, March 7th. See also www.fairtrade.net

[ sthompson@irishtimes.com ]

ECOWEB

www.nanonaglebirthplace.ie

Named after the founder of the Presentation Order of nuns, the Nano Nagle Centre outside Mallow, Co Cork, is a centre for heritage, spirituality and ecology. Run by a group of nuns, the self-sufficient farm and eco centre caters for school groups, organic farmers (the next commercial organic horticulture course begins on Tuesday), students and others.