Nearly half of US tap water contains forever chemicals says study
The US Geological Survey has completed a comprehensive analysis of the nation’s tap water quality. Alarmingly, it found that 45% of samples were contaminated with harmful forever chemicals.
Apparently, we’ve yet another annoying boon for the bottled water industry.
The US Geological Survey has just released the details of its
Current in Planet
China poised to hit clean power target five years early
China is reportedly on track to almost double its wind and solar power capacity and shatter the central government’s ambitious 2030 goal of 1,200 gigawatts way ahead of schedule. ‘China is making strides,’ says Martin Weil, a researcher at Global Energy Monitor (GEM). The NGO, which tracks operating utility-scale wind and...
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...
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 of nations globally. The Arctic is home to major reserves of oil and natural gas, promising significant energy reserves for...
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 contributor being livestock and fisheries.
Yet although the drastic environmental impact of meat and dairy production has been at the
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...
