Can Humans Cause Earthquakes?

Scientists have been asking the question whether humans can cause earthquakes and maybe even if they could trigger a small one to prevent a large one. Certainly nuclear explosions are registered on the Richter Scale, but other exdperiements have looked at water. The unsustainable use of Groundwater  near Lorca, Spain is one possible cause put forward forward for the 5.1 earthquake that hit on May 11 2011. Removing water or even melting ice can cause rebounding changing pressure points. Similarly building large dams and resertvoirs may also compress the ground and change pressure points.

http://arstechnica.com/science/2012/10/can-humans-cause-an-earthquake/

Italian Scientists Jailed For Manslaughter

Six scientists and a government official have been sentenced to six years after been convicted of manslaughter. The charges relate to the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake in Italy that measured 6.3 on the Richter Scale and killed 309 people. All seven were members of the  'National Commission for the Forecast and Prevention of Major Risks' and were accused of providing inaccurate, incomplete and contradicory information leading up to the quake. It was argued that the tremors before the main quake should have caused the commission to give more accurate predictions, while most scientists still point out that earthquakes can not accurately be predicted and that the trial should not have gone to court.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-20025626

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-14991654

UN warns over ageing population

The UN has warned that countries need to prepare better for ageing populatuions, especially in developing countries. They estimate that in 10 years there will be over 1 billion people over the gae of 60. This will put enormous pressure on healthcare and pension systems. The UN also said that we had to take better care of our pensioners and avoid cases of abuse and neglect.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-19784509

Shell Rejects Liability for Nigerian Oil Spills

The oil giant Shell has rejected claims by Nigerain farmers that it should pay compensation to them for damaging farmland. The farmers are suing Shell in the civil courts in the Hague. However, Shell are claiming that most damage was caused by criminal damage and not by them. If successful other farmers may also sue Shell.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-19905694