Global pollinator losses linked to excess fatalities
According to a new study, insect declines are resulting in reduced yields of healthy foods like fruit, vegetables, and nuts which is causing an estimated 500,000 early deaths a year. In 2019, the first Global Scientific Review of insect populations was released. It disclosed, to the dismay of the entomological community,...
Current in Change
Africa’s Gen Z demanded COP27 tackle climate emergency
At this year’s COP27, young African climate activists demanded for actions and not words. Africa has been the worst hit by the effects of climate change. This year's Young Africa session revealed adaptation and funding as priorities to curb the climate emergency. According to the UN, more than 30...
Cove creates biodegradable water bottles from food waste
Ecologically inclined start-up Cove has released a new water bottle that appears as plastic to the naked eye – but actually is made from biodegradable food waste called PHA. It is the first of its kind, and the product is commercially available. Amid our current climate crisis, plastic waste is...
Study finds climate change seriously lacking in current college texts
Despite being among the largest concerns for young people, climate change features very little in college textbooks – especially where solutions are concerned. Given it’s a problem we’ve essentially inherited, our generation is more concerned with climate change than any demographic before us. Despite this sad disposition, however, it appears educational...
The cost-of-living crisis is sparking a rise in sex workers
A UK organisation has flagged that the number of women turning to sex work in order to cope with the cost-of-living crisis is rising. Its services operates in numerous cities across the country, advising women on how to remain safe at work and how to stay within the lines...
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...
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 $1,200 per month for 12 months, and will be open to 55 people in total. In order to qualify for the...
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 Christmas has ubiquitously featured glistening carpets of snow, even in the Southern hemisphere, where the holiday lands in mid-summer. But, as...
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 being embraced worldwide, electric vehicles are becoming cheaper, and innovation aimed at storing green power continues to find success. Knowing...
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 Ebola cases, including the capital, Kampala. Last week, all primary and secondary schools across Uganda closed as a result of...
