Scientists call for greater emoji biodiversity

Scientists call for greater emoji biodiversity

Emojis are now such a key part of our language that ecologists from the University of Milan believe more variation could help generate interest in lesser-known organisms - and encourage conversations around conservation. A team of ecologists from the University of Milan recently conducted the world’s most comprehensive survey on...

Current in Offbeat

swipe
This giant ancient ape became extinct because of climate change

This giant ancient ape became extinct because of climate change

An ancient species of great ape, named Gigantopithecus blacki, was driven to extinction hundreds of thousands of years ago. Scientists believe climate change is mostly to blame for putting the giants’ favourite fruits out of reach during dry seasons. Between witnessing entire regions becoming upended by extreme weather and warnings of impending, irreversible changes from eco scientists, we’re hardly lacking for reasons to mitigate climate change. Nevertheless, here’s another for...

By London, UK
Is ‘bed rotting’ self-care or self-deprecation?

Is ‘bed rotting’ self-care or self-deprecation?

The latest wellness trend on TikTok caters to burnt-out Gen Zers, encouraging them to escape the demands of daily life by spending extended periods of time under the covers and emerging only when they feel properly rested. At first glance, there’s likely a lot of good that can come from this, but critics are concerned about the potential consequences of young people staying sedentary. 2022 was the year we embraced...

By London, UK
‘Rizz’ named word of the year by Oxford University Press

‘Rizz’ named word of the year by Oxford University Press

Gen Z’s favourite TikTok buzzword ‘rizz’ was crowned word of the year for 2023. Unsure what that means? A brush up on your social media dialect might be in order. The word ‘rizz’ has been named word of the year by the Oxford University Press. Based on more than 32,000 votes and final judgement from a team of language experts, the word is defined as ‘style, charm, or attractiveness; the ability...

By London, UK