News
Business
Science
Technology

Cleaning the UK's Ailing Waterways: The Battle Against Agricultural Pollution

A mere 14% of England's rivers are in good health, as reported by the Environment Agency in 2019. While water companies and sewage releases often bear the brunt of the blame, the role of farming practices in damaging our waterways cannot be ignored. Polluted water running off agricultural land is a significant contributor to the decline of these vital ecosystems. But what can be done to restore our rivers, and who are the pioneers leading this charge?

The Retreat: A Meditation Misadventure

The gong resonates through the darkness at 4 am, a haunting echo in the stillness of the night. In the dim light of dawn, you rise, joining others in a silent procession towards the meditation hall. Your mind is a whirlwind of anticipation and anxiety, but you suppress it, as talking is forbidden. A volunteer gestures, directing you to a spot amidst the sea of seated figures. You sit, back aching, knees throbbing, and a gnawing hunger gnats at your stomach. Dinner was a distant memory, and the retreat has only just begun.

The Unheard Cry: Jaqui's Journey and the Shadow of Intensive Meditation

In the vast tapestry of human existence, some stories echo with a haunting resonance, reminding us of the delicate threads that bind our lives. This is the story of Jaqui, a young woman whose life was marked by an insatiable curiosity, a strong will, and a deep connection with the world around her. It is also the story of a journey that led her to the remote corners of her own mind, where the silence of a retreat became a cacophony of inner turmoil.

The Future of Fresh Water: The Rise of Solar-Powered Desalination

Have you ever wondered why, despite decades of technological advancements, desalinated water still makes up only a tiny fraction of the world's drinking supply? The answer lies in cost and energy consumption. But a groundbreaking 2020 study suggests that the landscape of desalination is on the brink of a revolution, powered by solar energy and battery storage systems.

The Great British Political Race: Who Will Take the Crown?

In the heart of the United Kingdom, a political race is brewing, one that promises to be as unpredictable as it is crucial. As we step into 2024, the year of the inevitable election, the landscape has shifted, the rules have changed, and the contenders are strategizing like never before. This isn't just any race; it's the race to Downing Street, where the stakes are higher than ever.

The Goenka Retreats: A Journey Through Mental Health Risks and Tragedy

In the wake of the tragic suicides of Jaqui and Megan, both following their participation in Goenka retreats, questions loom large over the organization's awareness and handling of potential risks associated with their meditation courses. This article delves into the harrowing experiences of these young women and their families, as well as the organization's response—or lack thereof—to these critical concerns.

The race against time: Can peatlands be restored fast enough to combat climate change?

Have you ever considered the vital role that peatlands play in our ecosystem? These unique landscapes, found predominantly in Northern England's Lake District, are not just beautiful to behold; they are the guardians of our planet's health. But there's a problem. Peatlands are drying out, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Can conservationists reverse this damage and restore these carbon sinks before it's too late?

The Optimal Level of Migration: Striking a Balance

Is there an optimal level of migration? The question seems deceptively simple, yet it is fraught with complexities that delve into the heart of economic theory, ethical considerations, and political debates. As an economist, the task is not to determine whether migration is inherently good or bad, but to understand the nuances that surround the "best" level of migration—best for whom, and under what circumstances.

The Thawing Frontier: The Peril and Promise of Arctic Petroleum

Are we ready to face the repercussions of tapping into the Arctic's vast oil reserves? As the Arctic Circle heats up, faster than the global average, we stand on the precipice of a contentious new frontier. Beneath the receding ice lies the largest unexplored petroleum reserve on Earth, a treasure trove of approximately 412 billion barrels of oil and natural gas. But what price are we willing to pay for this bounty?

Navigating the Transition from Coal Mining to Sustainable Livelihoods

In the heart of India's coal belt, the miners' song resonates with the echoes of a changing world. As the government targets a phase-out of coal, the livelihoods of millions hang in the balance. This article delves into the challenges and opportunities faced by these communities, exploring the transition from coal to sustainable alternatives.