Tequila and mezcal production could be halted by climate change
Making tequila and mezcal requires agave syrup extracted from a virtually climate-resistant plant. But the only animal that pollinates this special plant is rapidly disappearing as its natural habitat and food sources succumb to a warming world. It’s Friday and you know what that means. Millions of people will be heading...
Current in Change
Climate change forces winemakers to turn to ancient grapes
Workers at vineyards around the world are asking themselves: what do the people want? Well, wine, of course. But providing that as our climate grows warmer will require resorting to grape varieties that are currently on the brink of extinction. Global winemakers are facing a serious dilemma. As a result of...
Exclusive – In conversation with Selina Leem
We went to the Natural History Museum’s Generation Hope: Act for the Planet event to speak with the climate justice activist, poet, and spoken word performer about how young people can use their influence and actions to drive positive change for the Earth’s future. Selina Leem is a climate warrior,...
Exclusive – In conversation with Disha Ravi
We went to the Natural History Museum’s Generation Hope: Act for the Planet event to speak with the climate justice activist and founder of FFF India about how young people can use their influence and actions to drive positive change for the Earth’s future. Disha Ravi is a climate justice...
UN report warns of a looming global water crisis
New research has uncovered that the number of people lacking access to safe drinking water in cities around the world will double by 2050 due to overconsumption and climate change. Billions of people will face water shortages in the coming decades as climate change, population growth, and shifting agricultural practices...
Understanding earthquakes with a seismologist
After the Turkey-Syria earthquake, there have been many questions, concerns and conspiracies. To answer these questions, a seismologist might have some of the answers. It has been over two weeks since a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern and central Turkey and western Syria. Over 40,000 people have died in...
How international zoos could save rare species from extinction
The first-ever birth of a baby pangolin in a European zoo is a beacon of hope for native species on the brink of extinction. What can we learn from this successful breeding trial? Around the world, native species – animals and plants found only in specific regions or countries – are starting to disappear rapidly. Most native flora and fauna populations have unique adaptations which enable them to live within these...
Seasonal allergies spiking earlier due to rising global temperatures
As our planet warms, allergy season is starting earlier and lasting longer, with pollen counts in the US already reported to be at ‘extremely high’ levels. Despite my preference for the hotter months of the year, whenever winter finally ends and spring rolls around, I’m usually filled with dread by what’s to come. As a long-time sufferer of hay fever, better weather means a bitter sweet amalgamation of actually enjoying the...
Why are scientists warning of a ‘phosphogeddon’?
Not only is global mismanagement of phosphorous depleting reserves vital to food production, but the element’s profligate use is also adding to the climate crisis. ‘To put it simply, there is no life on Earth without phosphorus,’ says Professor Penny Johnes, who teaches biogeochemistry at the University of Bristol. The element, which was discovered in 1669 and has since proved to be essential to humanity’s survival, is currently the focus of...
How could de-extinction harm our planet?
A bio-tech company has caused worry for its ‘de-extinction’ project reminiscent of Jurassic Park’s plot. Some experts in the field argue that reviving lost species only contributes to the destruction of ecosystems. Bringing back dead animals may seem like witchcraft, but science has proven otherwise. De-extinction refers to the resurrection of extinct species through various scientific methods. The goal of this concept is to rewild extinct species into their natural habitat...
