UK ministers set to ban single-use vapes over child addiction fears
UK ministers are reportedly poised to announce a nationwide ban on single-use vapes in the coming week. With their considerable ecological impact considered in discussions, the chief concern is that children are becoming addicted. Your local off license is about to become a lot less colourful in the coming weeks,...
Current in Change
Biden cancels Trump-approved oil and gas leases in the Arctic
In a massive win for the planet, the Biden administration has confirmed the cancellation of seven controversial oil and gas leases in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, citing the need to conserve nature and protect Indigenous rights. This week, the Biden administration confirmed its intent to cancel seven controversial oil...
Shouting at kids increases their risk of mental health issues by 50%
New research claims that shouting can be as damaging to children’s development as sexual and physical abuse. It warns that young people exposed to hostile parenting early on are more likely to self-hr, use drugs, and commit crimes. According to a recent study published in Science Direct, shouting at, denigrating,...
Africa’s first Climate Summit 2023 resolutions, criticisms, and challenges
The just concluded Africa Climate Summit, a significant gathering of leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders, unfolded for 3 days against the backdrop of pressing environmental challenges. Governments, organisations, and heads of African states deliberated on crucial resolutions to address climate change, carbon credits, and various environmental issues, amid a backdrop...
Is it surprising that Gen Z is giving up on higher education?
Surveys conducted last year reveal that only half of Gen Z say they are interested in pursuing a four-year degree after finishing high school. Looking at the big picture, is this truly surprising? Imagine you’ve just graduated from university, one of the biggest accomplishments of your life so far. Now drowning...
The first-hand reality of trying to get justice for rape
One of the primary purposes of the English legal system is to ensure justice is served to those who break the law, including cases involving rape and sexual assault. But for many, the justice system is failing. After five years of trying to bury what happened to her, Ciara...
Antarctica’s pollution crisis demands global attention
As the world grapples with the ever-pressing issue of environmental degradation, an unexpected frontier comes into focus – Antarctica, where the alarming presence of contaminants challenges its ecology. At the northern tip of Antarctica lies the Casey research station, one of the three biggest stations overseen by the Australian Antarctic Division. The base has long provided a staging ground for scientists to research the region's geology and polar seafloor. In recent...
Bill Gates backs plant-based meat companies as ‘the future’
The billionaire has invested in multiple plant-based meat companies, including Impossible, Beyond Meat, and Upside Foods. Despite this, he acknowledges that getting most people to adopt veganism is unrealistic. Over the years, Bill Gates has become known for his philanthropy, climate advocacy, and financial generosity for projects working to create social change. He has dedicated large portions of his wealth to improving public health by supporting research and development for...
Almost one in three female surgeons have been sexually assaulted
Representing a ‘#MeToo moment’ for the NHS, a recent survey has uncovered a pattern of female trainees being abused by senior male surgeons during the past five years in operating theatres across the UK. Almost a third of female surgeons in the UK have been sexually assaulted by a colleague during the past five years, a recent survey – which is the largest of its kind – has revealed. Published in...
Unpacking the controversy around celebrity charity organisations
Committing to donating a sum of money isn’t the same as donating it directly. Acknowledging this difference can tell us a lot about how celebrities and multinational companies ‘give back’. ‘We’ve committed to donating X amount to X cause,’ is a phrase often used when celebrities and multi-national companies announce their involvement in charitable work. And while we tend to feel that all is good and well in the world whenever...
