What’s going on here? The UK based department store John Lewis reports that sales of its craft and repair items are up by 61% compared to last year. An increase in environmentally conscious behaviour, as well as the cost of living crisis, are thought to be behind it. What does this mean? The John Lewis haberdashery section is a favourite among avid…
What’s Going On Here? Climate activists have been gluing themselves to world-famous paintings to protest the burning of fossil fuels during a climate crisis. The latest event occurred over the weekend in Madrid’s Prado museum. What Does It Mean? Two climate activists glued their hands to Goya’s “La Maja Vestida” and “La Maja Desnuda”. They also spray-painted “+1.5 C” on the gallery…
What’s going on here? On the 1st of October, the Eurasian beaver was officially recognised as a native and protected species. This means any action which harms the animal or disturbs its habitat is now illegal in England. What does this mean? This is an incredibly important development which recognizes the contribution of beavers to fighting both the climate and biodiversity crises.…
What’s going on here? Yvon Chouinard is an 83-year-old mountain climber who founded Patagonia: the outdoor clothing brand which eventually took him to billionaire status. Last week, Chouinard donated the company to fight the climate crisis. What does this mean? Patagonia remains in control by the Chouinard family via The Patagonia Purpose Trust, but it only holds 2% of the total stock.…
What’s going on here? Rosewood is a precious, endangered wood in high demand especially in China. The Gambia has been its largest exporter, but it’s an open secret that the wood is illegally smuggled from Senegal. Last week all timber exports were banned in The Gambia to combat the illegal trafficking. What does this mean? Rosewood has a distinct red colour and…
What’s going on here? Trials for a new fishing technology are taking place that use light instead of fish bait. The method attracts scallops as well, meaning this could be a promising alternative to dredging. What does this mean? Scientists from Fishtek Marine have been working alongside fishermen trialling the use of LED lights in pots to catch crabs and lobsters. Surprisingly,…
What’s going on here? Wine grapes are a sensitive crop. Shifting weather patterns due to climate change will mean that we see huge differences in where our wine comes from. What does this mean? The ‘wine map’ is expanding. Wine usually grows 30 – 50 degrees North and South of the equator. Now, wine is being produced in Norway, as far North…
What’s going on here? A project in Spain is restoring ancient water channels which have been around as far back as the mediaeval times. These channels are important for dealing with drought and the increasing demand for water from intensive farming. What does this mean? Acequias are networks of irrigation streams. They distribute water from snow melt in the Sierra Nevada mountains…
What’s going on here? A plastic treaty is being drawn up to be implemented in 2024, which would regulate the production, design, use and disposal of plastic on a global scale. The treaty has been described as the most significant multilateral environmental deal since The Paris Agreement. What does this mean? At the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) last week in Nairobi, Kenya,…
