Antarctica, Earth’s last great wilderness, is facing growing pressure from human activity. Visitor numbers have skyrocketed from fewer than 8,000 annually in the 1990s to over 124,000 in 2023–24, with projections suggesting as many as 450,000 by 2034. Most tourists travel on expedition vessels, with more than 80,000 stepping onto Antarctic soil last season. Despite rules enforced by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), including limits on shore landings and biosecurity checks, the average tourist trip generates around 5.44 tonnes of CO₂ per passenger, adding to the continent’s environmental stress. Pollution and Ecosystem Damage A study published in…
Author: Andrew Rogers
Andrew Rogers
Andrew Rogers is a freelance journalist based in the USA, with over 10 years of experience covering Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. He earned his degree in Journalism from the University of Florida. Throughout his career, he has contributed to outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and Reuters. Known for his clear reporting and in-depth analysis, Andrew delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on both national and international developments.
A major study has shown that high temperatures can harm global moods. Researchers analysed more than one billion social media posts. When temperatures crossed 35°C, negative expressions increased, especially in lower-income countries. Wealthier nations also saw changes but at a much smaller scale. The analysis, led by MIT with international collaborators, compared online sentiment scores with local daily weather data. Results revealed low-income regions suffered three times the emotional effect seen in richer ones. Heat was not only uncomfortable but also strongly linked to declining positivity. Behaviour Under Rising Heat Past findings support this connection between heat and behaviour. Drivers…
Asia powers ahead in cryptocurrency growth, and the United States has recently stepped up under Trump’s second term. Europe, meanwhile, concentrates on regulation, sparking debate about whether strict oversight will harm innovation. Bitcoin, launched in 2009, has risen from near zero to almost $120,000, showing how digital assets have become deeply mainstream. Through MiCA, the EU requires strict wallet segregation, audits, licensing fees, and verified transfers. Officials present this as consumer protection and market stabilization. Industry insiders argue such obligations weigh down smaller players, risk limiting competition, and slow down the continent’s progress in a highly dynamic sector. Poland’s Draft…
Duolingo apologised after users noticed a German lesson calling J.K. Rowling mean. The company confirmed the lesson has been taken down. The exercise asked if learners liked Harry Potter. The approved answer contained a negative remark about the author herself. Duolingo stated it regretted causing offence and assured users that lessons should stay centered on language rather than opinions. Rowling’s record on trans rights continues to divide readers and generate criticism from activists, celebrities, and the original Harry Potter cast. Daniel Radcliffe said her comments saddened him and stressed his ongoing support for LGBTQ people and their rights. Heated Reactions…
Scientists have observed a surprising halt in Arctic sea ice decline, with levels showing little overall drop since 2005. This pause is unexpected, as rising fossil fuel emissions continue to trap heat and drive global temperatures higher worldwide. Researchers believe natural shifts in ocean circulation temporarily shielded the region from stronger melting, but they stress this is brief. They warn ice loss will likely resume within a decade, and possibly at nearly twice the historical average pace. Still Shrinking in the Long Run Satellite data reveal September ice cover is already about half what it was in 1979, proving the…
Global sperm counts have dropped almost 60% since the 1970s, with decline rates now over 2% per year. Experts link this trend to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics, such as phthalates and bisphenols, which harm hormones and fetal male development, leading to lower fertility. Political resistance blocks chemical regulation as plastic production surges. Attempts at a global treaty failed after oil- and gas-producing nations resisted limits. Experts demand strong policies, safer materials, and worldwide cooperation. Using glass or stainless steel helps, but only broad, systemic action will protect future reproductive health.
Led by Prof. David Salt, the team analyzed beans from three Colombian regions, revealing microbes that shape chocolate taste. Nine key microbes identified. Santander and Huila beans showed fruity, floral flavors after fermentation. Antioquia beans missed these flavors due to different microbial activity. Genetic testing identified nine microbes crucial for fine chocolate aromas. Scientists fermented sterile beans using this microbial group. Resulting chocolate had more flavor, less bitterness, and reduced astringency. Salt says the discovery could revolutionize cocoa farming. Farmers could use these microbes to ensure premium cocoa quality. This may reduce costs since flavorful beans need less refining, and…
