Over consumption threatens planet

WILDLIFE populations around the world have declined by 30 per cent in the past four decades in the face of record over-consumption of natural resources, a report warned today. The examination of how more than 9,000 populations of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians and fish are faring reveal a planet in crisis, with serious implications for human health, wealth and well-being, conservationists said. Freshwater creatures in the tropics have seen the worst declines, of around 70 per cent, while tropical species as a whole have seen populations tumble by 60% since 1970. In Asia, tiger numbers have fallen 70 per cent in just 30 years. Wildlife is under pressure from ever-growing human demand for resources, the study by WWF, the latest Living Planet report from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and the Global Footprint Network said. * JOHNNY DEPP has revealed that his love scenes in Dark Shadows were more “surreal” than sexy. As vampire Barnabas Collins in TIM BURTON’S latest film, the star got to grapple with EVA GREEN in a dramatic and energetic sequence. “It was more surreal shooting it than it looks on the big screen, because we were on harnesses and flying about all over the room. It was more fun to make than it looks like,” “Nothing compares to the experience, other than perhaps going to war in Vietnam” - David Cameron recalls having to make his final selection speech to his Witney constituency party meeting. “I still have a Liverpudlian accent if I am tired or drunk” - Harry Potter star Jason Isaacs, who tried to modify his Scouse tones when he moved to London. “New York men just use women who make themselves too easily available on first dates. I find it disgusting that men expect sex on a first date - and they often get it” - Actress Shirley Leigh-wood Oakes. “We need a Tory - and no mucking around” - Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, on his choice for the new director-general of the BBC.