conservation | Axios Times

Eyewitness at Kushner's Albania Project: 'This Is an Environmental Disaster'

European conservation experts have reported witnessing heavy machinery demolishing beaches and ancient forests inside Albania's protected Vjosa-Narta wetland, linked to a $4 billion resort project backed by Jared Kushner. The site, home to flamingos, pelicans, and endangered species, was found without posted permits. Protests have erupted, and Albanian authorities have frozen assets as part of a corruption investigation.

Jun 11, 2026

Society

Over 10,000 Short-Tailed Albatross Return to Japanese Island After Near Extinction

Japan's Yamashina Institute reports the short-tailed albatross population on Torishima Island has exceeded 10,000 for the first time since the species was rediscovered 75 years ago. The endangered bird, once hunted nearly to extinction, now numbers about 10,200 after a record breeding season. Experts caution that volcanic risks and shifting ocean conditions still threaten the species.

Jun 9, 2026

World

Japan's Oldest Amur Tiger Dies at Age 20 at Fukuoka Zoo

A 20-year-old male Amur tiger, the oldest of its species in Japan, has died at Fukuoka Zoo. The tiger lived beyond the average life span of 15-18 years in captivity. Its advanced age was considered the main cause of death.

Jun 5, 2026

World

JAL Launches Lunar Heritage Transport Service

Japan Airlines (JAL) announced it will begin transporting culturally significant items to the Moon to preserve them from threats such as climate change, natural disasters, and conflict. The "Moon Payload Service" will use a lunar lander developed by a JAL subsidiary and is expected to launch within three to five years.

May 26, 2026

Society

Tea-Picking Festival Held on 300-Year-Old Giant Tea Tree in Shizuoka

On the 88th day after the start of spring, known as 'Hachijuuhachiya,' residents and the tea preservation society in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, harvested tea from the 'Fujieda no Oocha,' an ancient tea tree estimated to be over 300 years old and the oldest in the prefecture. The harvested buds are believed to be of the highest quality and bring good luck.

May 2, 2026

Society

Trump expands red snapper fishing season, raising overfishing concerns

President Donald Trump has approved 2026 recreational red snapper fishing permits for four Southeastern states, extending the season. Conservation groups and scientists warn this could lead to overfishing and harm fish stocks.

May 1, 2026