World’s ocean surface temperature hits record high
According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the global average has been at 21.1°C since the start of April. Climate experts warn this could lead to an increased risk of extreme weather and marine storms. According to US government data incorporating observations from satellites, ships, and buoys,...
Current in Planet
How will London look in 2050?
As the climate is thrown into flux, London could be an adaptive utopia. Or, it could be a site of catastrophe. In 2050, London winters will be wetter, summers will be drier, and everything will be hotter. The city’s population is set to grow to 11 million. There will...
Bermuda is on a mission to expand its marine conservation laws
Through consultation with residents and local fishermen, Bermuda is looking to expand its ocean conservation efforts. Named The Blue Prosperity Plan, the project will attract global investors to its Blue Economic Zone in exchange for protecting its vibrant marine habitats. The island of Bermuda is often referred to as the...
What you should know about F1’s environmental impact
Many around the world love the thrill that comes with Formula 1. However, its environmental impact should keep you on the edge of your seat as much as any racing. With a rich history dating back to the 1950s, Formula 1 (F1) is one of the world’s most prestigious...
Cows in the UK could be given ‘methane blockers’ to cut emissions
As part of the British government’s net-zero plans, farmers will be forced to give livestock cattle feeds containing flatulence suppressants in an attempt to reduce their digestive gas. Methane is a colourless and odourless gas expelled by cattle which is approximately 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide when it...
Study reveals Europe’s dangerous ‘forever chemical hotspots’
In-depth research conducted by the Forever Pollution Project in collaboration with Le Monde and The Guardian has revealed that a massive 17,000 sites in Europe and the UK are plagued by dangerous levels of forever chemicals. We’ve heard a lot about ‘forever chemicals’ and their effects on human health in...
UN finalises the High Seas Treaty after two decades of negotiations
Last year, ocean conservationists grew worried as nations failed to sign the High Seas Treaty for the fifth time. But over the weekend, the UN achieved momentous success – it received signatures from leaders of 193 countries to protect one of the planet’s largest and most precious resources. It’s the day many were starting to believe would never come. After more than two decades of negotiating, the UN has finally reached...
Antarctic sea ice reaches lowest levels on record again
Polar scientists are scrambling for answers after recent examinations showed record lows in Antarctic sea ice. The diminishing continent could drive sea levels up drastically if current erosion rates continue. We’re breaking records year on year, but no one is celebrating. For nearly 45 years, satellites have helped scientists keep track of how much ocean ice is floating around Antarctica’s 18,000km coastline. Within these observations, it’s normal to see drastic fluctuations throughout...
Tequila and mezcal production could be halted by climate change
Making tequila and mezcal requires agave syrup extracted from a virtually climate-resistant plant. But the only animal that pollinates this special plant is rapidly disappearing as its natural habitat and food sources succumb to a warming world. It’s Friday and you know what that means. Millions of people will be heading out to their local watering hole for happy hour, with many choosing to sip on the popular and delicious margarita. You...
Climate change forces winemakers to turn to ancient grapes
Workers at vineyards around the world are asking themselves: what do the people want? Well, wine, of course. But providing that as our climate grows warmer will require resorting to grape varieties that are currently on the brink of extinction. Global winemakers are facing a serious dilemma. As a result of climate change, their once-reliant grape vines are starting to produce fruit with altered tastes. Sometimes, the grapes hardly grow at...
