Are wetter winters and frequent flooding here to stay

Residents navigate a flooded street in California, surrounded by emergency vehicles and debris after a series of atmospheric rivers in December 2022.

In December 2022, California faced a series of atmospheric rivers that resulted in widespread flooding, prompting emergency declarations across multiple counties. These extreme weather patterns are attributed to climate change, which is causing warmer air to hold more moisture, leading to intense storms. The implications are profound, affecting agriculture, water supply, and urban planning. For … Read more

Exploring the Depths of BBC Inside Science

A group of scientists engages in a lively discussion during a BBC Inside Science episode focused on renewable energy technologies and their impact on climate change.

In its latest episodes, the program has focused on pressing global issues, such as climate change and public health, highlighting expert opinions and research findings. Notably, the episode aired on October 5, 2023, featured a panel of leading scientists discussing the latest developments in renewable energy technologies, showcasing innovations that could play a crucial role … Read more

Are wetter winters and frequent flooding here to stay

Residents navigate a flooded street in a town affected by severe winter storms, with waterlogged homes and debris visible in the background.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the frequency of heavy precipitation events has increased by 20% since the 1950s in the United States. This trend is expected to continue, with projections indicating that the Midwest and Northeast could see 10-20% more precipitation by the end of the century. These changes not only … Read more

MPs express concerns over data centre expansion impacting Miliband’s net zero targets

UK MPs gather in a parliamentary session to discuss the rapid expansion of data centres and its potential impact on the country's net zero carbon emissions targets.

Recent reports indicate that the number of data centres in the UK has surged by over 20% in the last two years, with major tech companies investing billions in new infrastructure. This boom is primarily driven by the growing demand for online services, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, MPs are concerned that this growth … Read more

More solar farms are being developed following a record renewables auction

Workers are seen surveying land for a new solar farm, with rows of solar panels being installed under a clear blue sky.

The total capacity awarded during the auction reached an unprecedented 10 gigawatts, with solar projects accounting for over 70% of the total bids. For more insights on financing renewable projects, check out our article on S Korean crypto firm mistakenly paying out $40bn in bitcoin. This marks a substantial increase compared to previous auctions, where … Read more

Businesses must act to protect nature to avoid extinction

A group of business leaders gathers at a conference table, discussing strategies for implementing sustainable practices to combat environmental challenges.

The report cites alarming statistics, stating that nearly 1 million species are currently at risk of extinction, a situation exacerbated by industrial activities. This loss of biodiversity poses a direct threat to supply chains, as many industries rely on natural resources that are becoming increasingly scarce. For more information on the consequences of inaction, see … Read more

Businesses face extinction unless they protect nature

A group of business leaders gathers around a conference table, discussing strategies for implementing sustainable practices in response to environmental challenges highlighted in a recent report.

According to the report, released in October 2023, over 50% of global GDP is highly dependent on nature. Industries such as agriculture, forestry, and fisheries are particularly vulnerable, with their livelihoods threatened by biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. The findings underscore the interconnectedness of economic stability and environmental health, as explored further in related discussions … Read more

Understanding Critical Minerals and Their Importance to Nations

A group of workers in safety gear examines a large pile of lithium ore at a mining site, highlighting the growing importance of critical minerals in the global economy.

Recent geopolitical tensions have further exacerbated the urgency surrounding critical minerals. For instance, the U.S. has intensified efforts to secure its supply chains, particularly in light of China’s dominance in the rare earth market, which accounts for over 60% of global production. This reliance has prompted discussions on the need for domestic mining and processing … Read more

Europe experiences severe effects from prolonged wet weather and freezing temperatures

Residents wade through flooded streets in northern England as heavy rain continues to impact daily life and transportation.

In the UK, the Met Office issued multiple flood warnings, particularly in northern England, where rivers have overflowed their banks. Meanwhile, France has seen heavy snowfalls in the Alps, impacting winter sports and tourism. For more on this issue, see our article on Europe’s weather challenges. The combination of rain and cold has prompted concerns … Read more

Europe faces challenges from prolonged wet weather and freezing temperatures

Residents navigate flooded streets in Paris as emergency services respond to rising water levels from the swollen River Seine.

The persistent rain has caused rivers to swell, prompting flood warnings in several areas. For instance, the River Seine in Paris has reached levels not seen in over a decade, leading to precautionary measures being implemented by local authorities. As of mid-November 2023, emergency services have been mobilized to assist those affected by rising waters, … Read more