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...
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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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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 Turkey and more than 5,000 in Syria, and the toll is rising. People are still being searched for and rescued,...
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 – are starting to disappear rapidly. Most native flora and fauna populations have unique adaptations which enable them to live within these...
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 what’s to come. As a long-time sufferer of hay fever, better weather means a bitter sweet amalgamation of actually enjoying the...
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, which was discovered in 1669 and has since proved to be essential to humanity’s survival, is currently the focus of...
