UN report warns of a looming global water crisis
New research has uncovered that the number of people lacking access to safe drinking water in cities around the world will double by 2050 due to overconsumption and climate change. Billions of people will face water shortages in the coming decades as climate change, population growth, and shifting agricultural practices...
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Understanding earthquakes with a seismologist
After the Turkey-Syria earthquake, there have been many questions, concerns and conspiracies. To answer these questions, a seismologist might have some of the answers. It has been over two weeks since a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern and central Turkey and western Syria. Over 40,000 people have died in...
How international zoos could save rare species from extinction
The first-ever birth of a baby pangolin in a European zoo is a beacon of hope for native species on the brink of extinction. What can we learn from this successful breeding trial? Around the world, native species – animals and plants found only in specific regions or countries –...
Seasonal allergies spiking earlier due to rising global temperatures
As our planet warms, allergy season is starting earlier and lasting longer, with pollen counts in the US already reported to be at ‘extremely high’ levels. Despite my preference for the hotter months of the year, whenever winter finally ends and spring rolls around, I’m usually filled with dread by...
Why are scientists warning of a ‘phosphogeddon’?
Not only is global mismanagement of phosphorous depleting reserves vital to food production, but the element’s profligate use is also adding to the climate crisis. ‘To put it simply, there is no life on Earth without phosphorus,’ says Professor Penny Johnes, who teaches biogeochemistry at the University of Bristol. The element,...
How could de-extinction harm our planet?
A bio-tech company has caused worry for its ‘de-extinction’ project reminiscent of Jurassic Park’s plot. Some experts in the field argue that reviving lost species only contributes to the destruction of ecosystems. Bringing back dead animals may seem like witchcraft, but science has proven otherwise. De-extinction refers to the resurrection of...
What is the Willow Project and why has it sparked backlash?
As Biden’s administration deliberates whether to greenlight a controversial scheme to expand oil infrastructure on Alaska’s North Slope, environmental campaigners are urging him to reject it. Update 13/03/23: After a long contentious process, the Biden administration has approved the Willow Project. The Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management said that the decision 'strikes a balance' by allowing ConocoPhillips to 'use its longstanding leases in the Arctic,' while...
Scientists warn guilt-free flying remains out of reach in the UK
A new report from the Royal Society has found that sustainable aviation solutions still need a great deal more research, resources, and investment before Britain can meet its ‘jet zero’ targets.
Unless you’re a member of the Kardashian family, you’ll know that flying is terrible for the environment.
Although it’d be unrealistic to assume we may eventually give it up altogether, foregoing this mode of transport – which accounts for
Egyptian Gen Zers are fighting against plastic pollution
Egypt is facing a significant plastic pollution problem. However, a new generation is taking action. Gen Z are becoming increasingly vocal and active in their efforts to combat plastic pollution. In recent years, plastic pollution has become a growing concern in Egypt. The country is one of the largest producers of plastic waste in the world, with an estimated 3.2 million tons generated annually. This waste often ends up in the...
Is the Veganuary pledge all it promises to be?
This January, nearly a decade after the annual pledge began, one person every 2.4 seconds signed up for Veganuary. But how effective is it? And is it catching on beyond the UK? People take on Veganuary for a number of reasons – from wanting to be more climate-conscious to eating more vegetables, to realising their unknowing love for animals. The annual pledge, which was founded in 2014, also ends on 1...
