Kalev Järvik reflects on the changes in the Haanja Nature Park in southern Estonia, where he could once walk under a canopy of trees without seeing the sky, a contrast to its current state. Having moved to Haanja over a decade ago, Kalev, a 40-year-old carpenter and cabinet maker, sought the tranquility of the forest and a simple life in one of the EU's least populated countries. He expresses a desire for a life connected to nature, which is now challenged by the changes in the forest.

The article explores the role of forest biomass as a renewable energy source in the context of the European Union's 2030 energy goals. It highlights the increase in subsidies for biomass, the scientific community's concerns about its carbon neutrality, and the impact on forest management. The article discusses Spain's plans to expand biomass energy production, the involvement of companies like Forestalia, ENCE, and Greenalia, and the controversies surrounding biomass plants' environmental and health impacts. It also addresses the regulatory landscape and the sustainability of biomass resources in Spain.

Mario Gómez, deputy mayor of Murcia and councilor for Ciudadanos, reported harassment linked to his anti-corruption efforts within the municipal government. He oversees the Contracting Board and the Contracting Surveillance Commission and has identified irregularities in minor contracts since June 2019. After reporting threats to the National Police, he provided over three gigabytes of municipal contracts for investigation. The Economic and Fiscal Crime Group of the National Police, part of UDEF, has requested contracts from various departments for investigation by the Murcia Regional Prosecutor's Office. The PP plans to sue Gómez for revealing secrets and document custody infidelity. Despite this, local government spokesperson Rebeca Pérez asserts the coalition with Ciudadanos remains strong.

José Manuel Lorca Planes, the Bishop of Cartagena, and other church officials were vaccinated against COVID-19 on January 19 by posing as chaplains at the Hogar de Betania residence, despite not being eligible under the vaccination protocol. The incident is under investigation by the Murcia health authorities and the regional prosecutor's office. Lorca Planes has apologized, stating he did not foresee the consequences of his actions. This case follows a similar incident involving the former health minister of Murcia, Manuel Villegas, who resigned after receiving the vaccine irregularly.

Manuel Villegas, the Health Councilor of Murcia, apologized for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine ahead of priority groups but refused to resign. His actions, along with over 400 health service workers who were vaccinated out of turn, have sparked calls for his dismissal by government partner Ciudadanos and criticism from other political figures. The Ministry of Health's vaccination protocol prioritizes frontline health workers and vulnerable groups, which has not been fully completed. The controversy has led to a crisis within the Murcia government and demands for transparency regarding a supposed 'VIP list' of vaccinations.

Manuel Villegas, the Health Minister of Murcia, and other non-assistential senior officials have been vaccinated against COVID-19, bypassing the established protocol which prioritizes healthcare and frontline workers. This has caused a rift with the government coalition partner, Ciudadanos, whose spokesperson Ana Martínez Vidal has called for Villegas' resignation. The opposition, including the PSOE and Podemos, has also criticized the actions. The Ministry of Health's vaccination protocol specifies priority groups, which do not include the Health Minister's role. The Murcian Health Service began vaccinating its nearly 400 workers last week without clear prioritization, leading to criticism from unions and healthcare workers.

Spanish journalists are increasingly self-censoring due to job insecurity, societal divisions, and the polarized political landscape. Veteran journalist Paulino Ros admits to self-censorship after losing a job over reporting corruption. The Madrid Press Association's 2016 report highlights that 75% of journalists yield to pressure and often censor themselves. The resurgence of Catalonia's independence movement and strong social movements, such as the women's movement, have made reporting more contentious. Media outlets like El País and El Mundo are seen to have ideological biases, influencing the content journalists choose to report. The financial crisis has exacerbated job insecurity, leading to layoffs and media closures, which in turn increases self-censorship. Social media also plays a role in promoting self-censorship due to the immediate and sometimes harsh audience reactions.

Colmar, a picturesque town in the Alsace region of France, is often believed to be the inspiration for the village in Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast.' The town's charm lies in its blend of French and German architectural styles, historic buildings, and scenic canals, earning it the nickname 'Little Venice.' Colmar's rich history, vibrant local culture, and status as the capital of the Alsace wine route make it a must-visit destination. The town's unique decorations and the relaxed pace of life offer a fairy-tale experience for visitors.

The article highlights various beaches in the Murcia region of Spain that offer alternatives to the well-known Mar Menor. It describes the unique features and attractions of beaches such as Cala Cortina in Cartagena, El Mojón in San Pedro del Pinatar, Playa de Levante in Cabo de Palos, and others. Each beach is characterized by its natural beauty, accessibility, and suitability for different activities like swimming, diving, and windsurfing. The article also touches on the historical and ecological significance of these locations, making them appealing destinations for both relaxation and exploration.

The Catholic Church continues to wield significant influence in Spain despite a decline in religious practice among the population. Investigative journalist Ángel Munárriz and the Ferrer i Guàrdia Foundation highlight the church's privileges, including tax exemptions and control over education. The 1979 agreement between Spain and the Holy See is criticized for maintaining the church's economic benefits. The church's influence extends to the judiciary, with Opus Dei members holding key positions. Calls for radical change include repealing the 1979 agreements to ensure a more secular state.

The article discusses the case of Mallorca businessman Bartolomé Cursach and the subsequent arrest of journalists Kiko Mestre of Diario de Mallorca and Blanca Pou of Europa Press Mallorca for allegedly leaking a police report. The seizure of their equipment sparked protests and condemnation from various journalist associations, emphasizing the importance of press freedom and the right to protect journalistic sources. The incident is seen as an attack on press freedom in Spain, with the country experiencing a decline in the world press freedom rankings. The journalists filed a complaint against the judge for perversion of justice and violation of professional secrecy. The case is significant for the future of press freedom in Spain.

Entrepreneurs Álvaro de Francisco and Álvaro Serrano developed Miwuki, a platform connecting animal shelters with individuals interested in adopting pets. Since its launch in February 2017, Miwuki has facilitated over 10,600 adoptions in Spain and expanded to France, Mexico, and Argentina. The platform allows shelters to create profiles for available animals and has attracted over 760 organizations and 90,000 registered users. Miwuki aims to streamline the adoption process and has partnered with Fundación Affinity to combat pet abandonment. De Francisco was also selected by Coca-Cola GeneradorES to develop new business models. Future plans include expanding services to cover the entire pet ownership process.

The article lists 20 compelling reasons to visit Porto, highlighting the city's unique sunlight, historical significance, cultural renaissance, and picturesque azulejos. It also emphasizes Porto's culinary delights, including its pastries and traditional dishes like francesinhas and tripas à moda do Porto. The city's religious architecture, scenic parks, charming shops, and welcoming atmosphere are also noted. The piece concludes by mentioning Porto's lack of pretension and the warmth of its people, making visitors feel at home.

The parents of an 11-year-old girl who gave birth in Murcia express their shame over the incident. The family, part of the Bolivian community in Murcia, has been deeply affected, with the Community of Murcia taking custody of both the young mother and her baby. The father of the newborn, the girl's 14-year-old brother, will be placed in a juvenile center. The article highlights the family's long working hours as a risk factor and discusses the broader issue of sexual relations among minors within the Bolivian community in Murcia, emphasizing the need for better education and open conversations about sex.

An unexpected and shocking development in the case of an 11-year-old girl who gave birth in Murcia reveals that the father of the baby is her 14-year-old brother. Pending DNA confirmation, it is believed the boy sexually abused his sister when he was 13, making him legally unaccountable. The article explores the potential futures for the newborn, the young mother, and the brother. The family was unaware of the pregnancy, and the police have opened an investigation. The parents may lose custody due to negligence, and the children might be placed in protective care. The baby could either stay with the mother in a care center or be put up for adoption.

Murcia has transformed into a vibrant hub for urban art, with local artists revitalizing public spaces with striking murals. The Oficina del Grafiti de Murcia, initially aimed at cleaning graffiti, now fosters artistic expression, making the city a national graffiti capital. The community's perception has shifted positively, embracing urban art as a cultural asset. The Museo de Bellas Artes' record-breaking exhibition underscores this success. Artists like Callizo and Nels highlight the growing acceptance and potential for graffiti as a sustainable art form.

The article outlines a ten-day travel itinerary through the Balkans, specifically Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia. It suggests various destinations and activities, including visiting Zagreb, Pula, Rovinj, the Plitvice Lakes National Park, Zadar, Krka National Park, Sibenik, Trogir, Split, and embarking on an Adriatic cruise. The journey continues through the historical sites of Ston and Dubrovnik, the scenic route to Kotor in Montenegro, and the cultural mosaic of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The trip concludes with a visit to Sarajevo, exploring its Ottoman-influenced markets and war-torn history, before returning to Zagreb.

The article describes the annual pilgrimage known as 'La Ruta del Mar,' where families from the Huerta region of Murcia travel to the coastal town of Los Alcázares. This tradition, originally meant to invoke fertility, has evolved into a festive event involving carts, horses, and communal celebrations. Participants, both young and old, engage in this journey for various reasons, including maintaining tradition, enjoying the festivity, and socializing. The narrative highlights the camaraderie, the historical roots of the pilgrimage, and the modern-day adaptations that keep the tradition alive.