Author: Andrew Rogers

The world’s oceans have crossed a critical acidity threshold for the first time, according to the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. The 2025 Planetary Health Check revealed that ocean surface pH has dropped by about 0.1 units since the industrial era, a 30–40% rise in acidity. This places marine ecosystems beyond safe limits and makes ocean health the seventh of nine planetary boundaries to be transgressed. Cold-water corals, tropical reefs, and Arctic ecosystems are particularly vulnerable. Increased acidity, caused by fossil fuel emissions, reduces calcium carbonate, harming species that rely on it for shells and skeletons. This threatens food…

Amazon will shut down all 19 of its Amazon Fresh grocery shops in the UK, with five of them set to be converted into Whole Foods Market outlets. The closures mark the end of the company’s experiment with cashierless grocery stores, launched in 2021 with the promise of seamless, app-based shopping. The Fresh concept relied on cameras and sensors to automatically charge customers for items as they left. However, the idea failed to gain traction after the pandemic, leaving Amazon unable to compete with established supermarkets such as Tesco and Sainsbury’s. Amazon has not confirmed how many jobs will be…

Vodafone franchisees warned in 2020 that commission cuts were affecting their mental health, four years before a group of 62 launched a £120m high court claim. A survey of 119 franchisees revealed stress, anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and low trust in the company. The claim alleges Vodafone “unjustly enriched” itself at the expense of small business owners, some of whom reported personal debts over £100,000 and suicidal thoughts. Vodafone says it “strongly refutes” the allegations and describes the case as a “commercial dispute,” while also launching a fourth investigation into its franchising division.

Europe is exploring a “drone wall” along its eastern border to counter Russian aerial threats, driven by calls from the Baltic states and supported by EU officials including Ursula von der Leyen and defence commissioner Andrius Kubilius. The initiative, involving Poland, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, aims to integrate a multilayered anti-drone system called Eirshield, developed by Estonian company DefSecIntel and Latvian firm Origin Robotics. Eirshield combines radars, cameras, radio frequency detectors, and AI automation to detect and neutralise hostile drones, either by jamming, interception with other drones, or using gun systems. Designed to target fast unmanned drones carrying warheads,…

Massive Attack have removed their catalogue from Spotify in protest at founder Daniel Ek’s €600m (£520m) investment in the military AI company Helsing. The band cited the “moral and ethical burden” of revenue from their music ultimately funding lethal technologies, including AI-integrated drones and fighter aircraft systems. The announcement coincides with the band joining the No Music for Genocide initiative, in which over 400 artists and labels are blocking their music from streaming services in Israel. Massive Attack emphasized that their Spotify action is separate, targeting Ek’s investment rather than the wider campaign. In a statement, the band referenced historic…

Donald Trump announced on Friday that Chinese president Xi Jinping had agreed to approve a deal over TikTok, though no specifics of the agreement or signing timeline were disclosed. The announcement followed a phone call between the two leaders, their first direct contact since June, amid heightened tensions over trade and technology. Trump said earlier this week that Washington and Beijing had reached a deal to place TikTok’s US operations under American control, with Oracle among the investors in talks to take a significant stake. Reports suggest the framework is still incomplete, and negotiations continue over compliance with laws passed…

A low daily dose of aspirin may dramatically reduce the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence in patients with certain gene mutations, according to a major Scandinavian trial. The study, led by Prof Anna Martling at the Karolinska Institute, followed over 3,500 patients who had surgery to remove colorectal tumours. Genetic testing identified 1,103 patients (37%) with mutations in the PI3K pathway, a key factor in some colorectal cancers. Those taking 160mg of aspirin daily for three years were 55% less likely to experience a recurrence compared with those on a placebo. Aspirin is thought to protect against cancer by reducing…

A new daily pill for weight loss, called orforglipron, may help people reduce their body weight by up to 20%, according to a trial by Eli Lilly. In the study of 3,127 adults with obesity, one in five participants taking the once-a-day pill for 72 weeks lost a fifth or more of their body weight. Orforglipron targets the same GLP-1 receptors as weight loss injections like Mounjaro and Wegovy but offers the convenience of a tablet, making it easier to store, distribute, and administer. Those on the highest dose, 36mg, lost an average of 11.2% of their weight, while 54.6%…

Bulgaria is a hidden gem in Southeast Europe, offering travelers a mix of history, culture, nature, and modern attractions. From the Black Sea coast to the Balkan Mountains, the country provides experiences for all types of visitors. Here are eight reasons why Bulgaria should be on your travel list. 1. Stunning Natural Landscapes Bulgaria boasts diverse natural scenery. The Balkan Mountains, Rila, and Pirin ranges offer hiking, skiing, and adventure sports. The Black Sea coast features golden beaches, charming towns, and seaside resorts perfect for relaxation. Nature lovers can explore national parks, waterfalls, and scenic trails throughout the country. 2.…

Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast is home to two standout cities: Varna and Burgas. These coastal gems attract tourists with their beautiful beaches, rich culture, and vibrant local life. Together, they offer a mix of relaxation, history, and entertainment for travelers. Varna: Bulgaria’s Cultural and Coastal Hub Varna, often called the “Marine Capital of Bulgaria,” is a lively city blending history with modern tourism. Its long, sandy beaches draw sun-seekers, while the city center features architecture from Roman, Ottoman, and Bulgarian Revival periods. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Roman Baths, Varna Archaeological Museum, and the Sea Garden—a sprawling park…