Life in the ocean twilight zone's at risk from global warming

Life in the ocean twilight zone's at risk from global warming

The deepest parts of the ocean known as the twilight zone could see a loss of life to its species due to global warming. The twilight zone lies between 200m (656ft) and 1,000m (3,281ft). This part of the ocean is home to more fish than the rest of the ocean and other species. It acts as a carbon sink absorbing a large amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. As carbon dioxide levels rise in the atmosphere, the ocean absorbs more gas leading to acidification, oxygen is depleted, and it hinders the shells and physiological development of ocean species. It is unlikely that these species will be able to adapt to warming oceans, for the centuries to come.

More than £20 Billion in UK pensions invested into Shell and many UK citizens are unaware

More than £20 Billion in UK pensions invested into Shell and many UK citizens are unaware

(Image by Pixabay)

New research has found that more than £20 billion in pensions is being invested into the oil giant Shell and the public is unaware. ‘Make My Money’ conducted a survey which determined that 58% of UK citizens who took part are unaware that their pensions are being invested into fossil fuel firms and projects. A fifth of those surveyed claimed they would switch pension providers if they found out that their pension savings were invested into Shell. As Shell celebrates its £10 billion record profits, UK pension schemes look to take action to vote against Shell’s company directors for failing to 'sufficiently act on the climate crisis'. Many citizens have seen their greener pension schemes outperforming their original since making the move, achieving greater returns.

Major new power link announced by the UK and Netherlands to increase energy security

Major new power link announced by the UK and Netherlands to increase energy security

(Image from Pixabay)

The Netherlands and the UK have announced plans for a new power line connecting the two countries with offshore wind farms in the North Sea to boost energy security and promote renewable energy.

The power line, dubbed 'Lion Link', is the second of its kind, according to the British government, and will produce enough energy to power more homes than Birmingham and Manchester combined.

According to the Dutch government, ‘Lion Link’ will be an important step in supporting decarbonisation.

In city centres, hybrid working has significantly reduced carbon emissions.

In city centres, hybrid working has significantly reduced carbon emissions.

(Image from Pixabay)

A study of large US and UK cities found that by lowering travel and office use, certain regions could cut their carbon footprint by 80%. Hybrid work can therefore result in significant reductions in emissions.

Glasgow in the UK could see an 80% cut in emissions, followed by Manchester (70%) and London (49%).

On the other hand, due to the prevalence of driving for commuting, US cities exhibit the most significant potential carbon reductions, with Atlanta (90%) narrowly beating out Los Angeles (87%) and New York (82%). Mixing the hours between home, local workplaces, and city offices can save big on emissions for major cities.

By abandoning the five-day commute paradigm, which has the highest carbon footprint of any working pattern, and switching to a hybrid working pattern, cities may significantly reduce their carbon emissions.

Air pollution is not just harmful to humans - it's also changing the gut of British bumblebees.

Air pollution is not just harmful to humans - it's also changing the gut of British bumblebees.

(Image from Pixabay)

Pollution caused by human activities has an impact on our health. According to the WHO, worldwide, atmospheric air pollution is thought to cause 4.2 million premature deaths annually. Although British bumblebees may be also caught in the crossfire.

Studies have found that pollution can also affect the gut bacteria of bumblebees. Exposure to black carbon (a component of fine particulate matter PM2.5), pesticides and other chemicals can alter their gut microbiome, which can have negative impacts on their health and ability to survive, which can threaten our global food security.