They will suffer from irreversible environmental devastation and the permanent loss of invaluable cultural heritage.

CNN: Ancient site needs saving not destroying

That includes disastrous mine accidents that could result in devastating loss to families and communities, and environmental nightmares like the Gulf oil spill.

FORBES: A Tale Of Two CEOs: BP vs. Massey, Part II, Don Blankenship Of Massey

"We are well aware that the loss of these hefted flocks will have serious environmental consequences for the Brecon Beacons, " he said.

BBC: News Online

"We now need to know more about how early life conditions can influence the pattern of telomere loss and the relative importance of inherited and environmental factors, " she said.

BBC: Glasgow scientists say telomeres indicate life length

But the council told the BBC the new road would reduce traffic and it planned to limit the environmental impact of the new road by extending Witney Country Park east of the Windrush, compensating for the loss of open space to the south.

BBC: Witney Cogges Link Road inquiry delayed by high turnout