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Ecology
Microplastics Found in Human Poop for the First Time
Tiny pieces of plastic measuring less than five millimeters in length—or roughly the size of a sesame seed—have become a nearly ubiquitous presence in our world. Scientists have found the particles, better known as microplastics, everywhere from the oceans, the…
Global Resource Consumption ‘to Double by 2060’
By 2060, global consumption of raw resources is set to nearly double to 167 gigatonnes. That’s according to a new OECD report, which warns as the global economy expands, living standards rise and world population soars to 10 billion people, it…
Indonesia Hops Aboard Plastic Cleanup with Bus Bottle Scheme
Surabaya’s recycling incentive scheme allows trash to be traded for tickets. The Indonesian city of Surabaya is now offering free bus rides in exchange for handing in used plastic bottles and cup. The country’s second-largest city has launched the recycling incentive scheme,…
Beijing Air Pollution Mystery Could Be Solved, Scientists Say
More than one million people die each year in China from particulate matter air pollution, but despite 15 years and billions of dollars of efforts to clean up the country’s air, dangerous winter smog persists. Now, an international team of scientists think they…
Climate Change Is Exacerbating World Conflicts, Says Red Cross President
Climate change is already exacerbating domestic and international conflicts, and governments must take steps to ensure it does not get worse, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross has said. Peter Maurer told Guardian Australia it was already…
Plastic Straws and Cotton Buds Could Be Banned in England in a Year
Environment Secretary Michael Gove has launched a consultation on the proposals. Plastic straws, drink stirrers and cotton buds could be banned within a year in England under government plans to reduce pollution. Environment Secretary Michael Gove has launched a consultation…
Cherry Blossoms Are Blooming Across Japan: It’s October
Each year, Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms herald the arrival of spring. But after a bout of extreme weather, blooms are being reported several months early. The Japanese weather site Weathernews said it had received more than 350 reports of blossoms…