Deforestation surges despite Cop26 pledge
An area the size of Switzerland was cleared from Earth’s most pristine rainforests last year, suggesting that world leaders’ commitment to halt their destruction by 2030 is failing. Last year, an area of tropical rainforest the size of Switzerland was felled. This is according to a damning new report by the...
Current in Planet
Why is New York City’s air so orange?
New York City is currently shrouded in thick, orange smog, with stage performances cancelled and sports games postponed. It is the result of Canadian wildfires that have worsened due to the climate crisis. Tens of millions are under air quality alert in the US, as smoke from Canadian wildfires...
Climate scientists warn Arctic Ocean could be ice-free by 2030
Even with our most concerted efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, climate scientists say Arctic ice sheets could melt completely by 2030. This is far earlier than anyone had previously thought possible. Over the last few decades, the year-round survival of large ice sheets in the Arctic has been a...
Tracking environmental progress on World Oceans Day
For World Oceans Day, we are rounding up significant milestones from the last year that are dedicated to caring for and protecting our planet’s oceans and seas. 70% of our planet's surface consists of oceans. It makes sense, then, that the survival of undersea ecosystems and the myriad of incredible species...
How are political disputes shaping the Arctic’s future?
With its vast resources becoming increasingly accessible, Arctic exploitation has caused notable geopolitical unrest. Nestled within the territories of eight different countries, the Arctic Circle is home to a population of 4 million people. Yet, it is the allure of the region's vast untapped resources that has captivated the ambitions...
What is the Dutch nitrogen crisis?
If it’s to meet its climate targets, the Netherlands will be forced to choose between agriculture or building new homes and infrastructure unless the farming sector cuts nitrogen-based emissions. Last year, it was revealed that the agriculture industry is responsible for about a quarter of our total greenhouse gas emissions, the main...
Study shows recycling can release huge quantities of microplastics
Billed as a key solution to the climate crisis, recycling could be releasing huge quantities of microplastics itself, according to a new study. The vast majority of our plastic waste winds up in landfill, bonfires, and in our natural environment, but how efficiently is the 9% that is recycled dealt with? A new study conducted by an international team of scientists claims that recycling plants inadvertently create staggering amounts...
70% of California beaches could reportedly vanish by the century’s end
Geological researchers believe California’s beaches could diminish by up to 70% by the year 2100. Satellite data collected over two decades is now being peer reviewed. The Golden State may lose some of its glorious sheen, thanks to the impacts of climate change. Globally famed for its sprawling beaches and ceaseless waves, California could reportedly face the grim prospect of waving goodbye to 70% of its coastline by the year 2100. Satellite...
What’s behind the recent ‘orca uprising’?
During the last few months, a spate of killer whale attacks on boats has fuelled concern among scientists and speculation on social media that the cetaceans could be trying to fight back. But are they? Where were you when the ‘orca wars’ began? This is a question currently making the rounds on social media, in light of news that killer whales have been deliberately attacking and sinking boats off the...
The UN releases new roadmap to halting plastic pollution
The United Nations has published a new report which states that ending plastic production could save the planet £3.6 trillion in under two decades. Its four-point approach aims to reduce the health and environmental problems stemming from plastic use. Though plastic is a cheap and versatile material, its widespread use over the last 70 years has come at the high cost of degrading our natural environment – and our own...
