| Read time: 6 minute(s)

DEBATE OF THE DAY: Is predicting the future a skill we can learn?

IN THE NEWS: Is predicting the future a skill we can learn? Another disaster has shaken some of the world’s most vulnerable people. Some think we can use science to predict and prevent them. On Friday 3 February, a Dutch researcher, Frank Hoogerbeets, tweeted out a map of southern Turkey. In the caption he wrote: […]
| Read time: 5 minute(s)

New museum in Mexico spotlights endangered axolotl salamander

A new museum and conservation center dedicated to Mexico’s critically endangered axolotl salamander is highlighting the amphibian’s remarkable story that has captured the attention of scientists and the public alike. With an impressive ability to heal itself, the axolotl (pronounced ah-sho-LO-tul) salamanders were showcased in the exhibit, which opened on Saturday, at Mexico City’s Chapultepec […]
| Read time: 6 minute(s)

Debate of the Day: Is inequality destroying planet earth?

THE NEWS: The world’s most powerful people were gathered in Switzerland. Some hoped to persuade them to clamp down on the top 1%. It is thought that Mansa Musa, emperor of Mali, was the richest man in history. In 1324, on a pilgrimage to Mecca, he brought so much gold with him that the value […]
| Read time: 3 minute(s)

World’s Longest Train: Swiss Rail Company creates World Record

The Rhaetian Railway company, in Switzerland, has claimed the world record for the longest passenger train. The train ran a 1.9-kilometer-long or 1.2-mile-long carrier composed of 100 coaches along the Albula/Bernina route from Preda to Bergün, according to an Associated Press report.  The train ran on the scenic route which is famous for having 22 […]
| Read time: 6 minute(s)

Debate of the Week: Should we all refuse to watch?

THE NEWS: Qatar’s attitudes towards homosexuality, women’s rights and labour law violations are provoking international outcry. Now some are calling for a boycott of the World Cup. A fire-breathing spider made from fifty tonnes of steel. Seven glitzy new stadiums. Ice rinks just miles from beach clubs; theme parks next to circuses; light shows which […]
| Read time: 4 minute(s)

Introducing the world’s first floating city.

Construction is underway in the Maldives for a floating city to house 20,000 people – a trailblazing solution to rising sea levels and an overcrowded capital city. In a turquoise lagoon in the Maldives, a floating city is beginning to take shape. Consisting of houses, restaurants, shops, a school and a hospital, the futuristic feat […]
| Read time: 9 minute(s)

Capitalism Redefined: Patagonia Founder gives away the company to fight climate change

A half century after founding the outdoor apparel maker Patagonia, Yvon Chouinard, the eccentric rock climber who became a reluctant billionaire with his unconventional spin on capitalism, has given the company away. Rather than selling the company or taking it public, Mr. Chouinard, his wife and two adult children have transferred their ownership of Patagonia, […]
| Read time: 7 minute(s)

Debate of the Week: Is it right to turn bugs into food?

Companies aiming to sell them as snacks are rapidly expanding, and claim they could end global food shortages while protecting the environment. Imagine it’s the year 2031. Ella could not believe her luck. She was celebrating her birthday at 2031’s Restaurant of the Year. There was carpaccio of caterpillar, bluebottle paté, woodlouse tempura. What should […]
| Read time: 2 minute(s)

What went right this week

Solar-powered cargo bikes arrived Cargo bikes were already the quickest way to transport goods across a city, according to a study published last year. Little wonder they are being touted as the future of urban transport. Now they have even more of a competitive advantage thanks to two German companies, which have developed lightweight solar […]
| Read time: 5 minute(s)

Become a Waste Warrior

On April  22, more than a billion people celebrate Earth Day to protect the planet from things like pollution and deforestation. By taking part in activities like picking up litter and planting trees, we’re making our world a happier, healthier place to live. Here are some ideas to help save the planet, anytime of the […]