Baby whales 'whisper' to mothers to avoid predators, study finds
Scientists reveal unique, intimate form of communication between humpback mothers and calves as well as silent method to initiate suckling Newborn humpback whales and their mothers whisper to each other to escape potential predators, scientists reported Wednesday, revealing the existence of a previously unknown survival technique. “They don’t want any unwanted listeners,” researcher Simone Videsen, […]
Will Sonny Perdue, Trump's agriculture pick, stand up for the little guy? Don't bank on it
In November, America’s beleaguered rural citizens voted against the status quo – but that’s exactly what Trump’s new agriculture secretary looks set to ensure Donald Trump owes his election in no small part to the support of farm country. But since entering office, almost all his actions and pronouncements have betrayed an abysmal understanding of […]
Most global investors recognise financial risk of climate change, report finds
Global index reveals 60% of asset owners are now taking some action, but warns there is still ‘enormous resistance’ to managing climate risk For the first time a majority of global investor heavyweights recognise the financial risks of climate change, according to the results of a major global index rating how investors manage such risks. […]
Plastic-eating bugs? It’s a great story – but there’s a sting in the tail | Philip Ball
Breeding wax moth caterpillars to devour our waste sounds good. But they would attack bee colonies too, and ultimately put crops at risk Caterpillars that can munch up plastic bags have just been identified, fuelling excited speculation that this could one day eliminate global pollution from plastic waste. The chance discovery, initially made by a […]
Policymakers can break the plastics stalemate
Policymakers across the world have a vital role to play in the transition towards a plastics system that works. More than ever, there is global momentum for a fundamental shift in how we produce, use and reuse plastics. This material and its applications, like packaging, are an integral part of the global economy and deliver […]
A government of death is plundering our ancient Munduruku lands. Help us stop it
As the UN forum on indigenous issues meets in New York, we, the Munduruku people of Brazil, demand an end to the destruction of our territory We, the Munduruku people, send our thoughts and words to you who live far away. We echo the cry for help from our mother, the forest, and from all […]
High court orders UK government to explain clean air plan delay
Critics say air pollution issue is public health and not political issue and ministers must defend delay in high court The government has been ordered back to the high court to explain its last-minute bid to delay publication of the UK’s clean air plan. Politicians and environmental groups had complained that ministers were “hiding behind […]
From Congo child soldier to award-winning wildlife ranger – a life in danger
Forced into the militia as a child in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rodrigue Katembo has now been awarded a Goldman prize for risking his life fighting to protect his country’s wildlife As an enforced child soldier, Rodrigue Katembo saw his little brother die and had to carry the news to his mother. Now 41, […]
March against madness – denial has pushed scientists out into the streets | Dana Nuccitelli
America’s leaders are playing Russian roulette with our future This past weekend, hundreds of thousands of people in the US and around the world marched in support of science. Next weekend, the People’s Climate March will follow. Redglass Pictures and StarTalk Radio created a short film in which the brilliant scientist and communicator Neil deGrasse […]
How Finland is approaching the circular economy
A national circular economy roadmap was published last year by parts of the Finnish government and Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra last year, showcasing a new direction for a country best known for surprisingly having one of the world’s leading education systems. According to Sitra estimates, the circular economy could generate two to three billon euros in […]