McDonald’s introduces reusable packaging in Europe
The world’s favourite fast-food chain has launched reusable packaging in France. After an image of the new packaging went viral online, customers are expressing both excitement and concern. Could this be the future of the McDonald’s experience globally? Take a Saturday morning walk through any city centre and you’re bound...
Current in Change
San Francisco launches income programme for trans community
The city’s GIFT pilot program sets a new benchmark for tangible inclusive legislation. San Francisco has become one of the first cities in the world to launch a guaranteed income program designed to protect trans residents. The Guaranteed Income for Transgender People, or GIFT, will grant trans applicants up to...
Is climate change killing the chances of holiday snow for good?
What will a warming climate do to our chances of getting Christmas snow around the globe? You may think it’s obvious, but let’s have a proper examination. If the phrase ‘No sh*t Sherlock’ is already running through your head, chill. We promise you’ll learn something here today. The cultural imagery surrounding...
How major oil firms will try to block the world’s first plastic pollution treaty
Global leaders are meeting this week to secure the world’s first global plastic pollution treaty, but big oil companies have major stakes in continuing to produce virgin plastics. There’s sure to be major pushback. The fossil fuel industry is starting to lose its monopoly on the global energy sector. Renewables are...
Uganda closes schools early due to Ebola surge among children
Uganda is battling its eighth Ebola outbreak, caused by Sudan ebolavirus. According to World Health Organization data, more than 65 deaths have been recorded including more than eight school children. Uganda has been facing both environmental and health catastrophes this year, putting thousands of lives in danger. Six Ugandan districts have...
Tobacco companies to be billed for clean-up of cigarette waste
Under new environmental regulations in Spain and Ireland, they will be forced to pay for part of the costs associated with ridding the streets of the millions of butts smokers discard annually. In June, the World Health Organisation released a comprehensive report outlining the destructive effects of the tobacco...
Marine biologists are optimising fishing practices in Europe
Oceanologists are using their knowledge to help fishermen increase their income while improving the sustainability of their catches. If implemented across Europe, it could transform the fishing industry in the Mediterranean. Though there’s been a lot of talk about unsustainable fishing in recent years, it’s important to remember that all fishermen are not created equal. Amongst the most problematic are industrial-sized fishing organisations and large fleets of trawling vessels, which obliterate...
Climate impact labels are encouraging people to eat less meat
According to a new study, information on food packaging that indicates the level of planet-heating gases emitted during production can persuade consumers against carbon-heavy meal options. Of the many things we can do to reduce our carbon footprints, switching to a plant-based diet is pretty high up in terms of effectiveness. This is because agriculture is a major contributor to the climate crisis and foregoing the 83% of all land required...
31 children have been found working in US meatpacking plants
Packers Sanitation Services Inc. has been accused of ‘oppressive child labour’ after children ages 13-17 were found cleaning warehouses overnight. The US Labor Department has sought an injunction against Packers Sanitation Services Inc. after 31 young children were found cleaning meatpacking plants across the Midwest. Officials say the children were being forced to carry out illegal work – including the cleaning of dangerous industrial equipment – during night shifts. According to the...
Why are wildflower lawns experiencing a surge in popularity?
Wildflower lawns are changing what we consider to be a traditional ‘garden’, and could have long term effects on our approach to personal nature projects. Ever heard of a ‘wildflower lawn’? Those familiar with the ins and outs of gardening may already be in the know, but wildflower lawns could soon become a mainstream staple of the gardening industry. What exactly are they, though? Grown with mixes of native species, instead...
