Why we must keep tabs on UAE's marine environment and shift to green energy has to be uniform globally, our editors comment on the top stories of Jan 15

WHY WE MUST KEEP TABS ON UAE’S MARINE ENVIRONMENT. The sea is a source of food for us and dominates coastal life. But how is climate change impacting fish stocks and sea levels? To probe these questions deeply, Abu Dhabi has launched a custom-made research and monitoring vessel called Jaywun. By studying biodiversity in the Arabian Gulf – the world’s hottest sea – Jaywun will inform policymakers on what steps to take to counter any challenges, such as dwindling fish stocks. This proactive step by the emirate is making waves in the scientific community and will ultimately serve both wildlife and humans. [COMMENT BY: Faisal Masudi, Assistant Editor]

SHIFT TO GREEN ENERGY HAS TO BE UNIFORM GLOBALLY: An immediate shift away from fossil fuels is neither practical nor cost-effective. Wind, solar and other forms of renewable energy are the future, but they are decades away from becoming mainstream energy sources. A tightening of gas taps by Russia last year left European economies shivering in the cold as they scampered to fire up their coal plants to maintain energy supply levels. This is despite Europe being at the forefront of the shift away from traditional fuel. Most importantly, this transition has to happen uniformly across the world. Emerging economies such as India and China are still heavily dependent on coal and oil, and will continue to do so until renewable energy output can meet the needs of their combined population of nearly three billion people, run their factories and power their vehicles. [COMMENT BY: Anupam Varma, Assistant Editor]

KLOPP FACING THE SACK IF RESULTS DO NOT IMPROVE AT LIVERPOOL: You would not have thought that after 18 league games of the English Premier League that mighty Liverpool would be as far down the table as ninth. But, that is where they are. This is their worst season under coach Jurgen Klopp ever since he was appointed in October 2015. The Reds have scored fewer goals, conceded more and won fewer points than at this stage of any previous full top-flight campaigns under the German. And now, the boss is coming under increased pressure with rumours that he could be sensationally sacked. That would be the last thing Liverpool fans want. But in football the buck always stops at the manager. New striker Cody Gakpo made his debut last night against Brighton but could do nothing as his side were thrashed 3-0. Now even the likes of Brentford and Fulham are above Liverpool in the table and the fans are not happy with the slump. If results do not improve fast Klopp could well be shown the door. [COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor]