Jamie Hailstone

A new analysis reveals overwhelming public support for climate action across G7 nations, with nearly 90% in the US, UK, and Canada believing climate change is real. Despite this, the report by the Potential Energy Coalition indicates that common phrases like 'net zero' are ineffective, consistently underperforming simpler messages. Instead, communications focusing on pollution, health, protecting future generations, and conservation resonate strongly, even transcending political divides. Experts emphasize the need for communicators to simplify language, connect climate issues to people's daily lives, and avoid complex jargon. This research suggests a significant disconnect between political debate and a largely united public demanding practical, tangible climate solutions that protect health and nature.

The global Breathe Cities initiative to improve air quality and protect public health is set to expand, following a $45 million investment from Bloomberg Philanthropies.

Universities and higher education institutions have been praised for their progress on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a new analysis.

A new analysis by Imperial College London and The Carbon Community reveals nature-based solutions like enhanced rock weathering and microbial enrichment can significantly boost carbon storage in young woodlands. The study, the largest field trial of its kind, found applying crushed silicate rock increased above-ground carbon storage by up to 27% after four years. Microbial enrichment, using beneficial microorganisms, also boosted biomass by 13%. Researchers emphasize combining these methods with tree planting maximizes atmospheric carbon removal, offering dual benefits of direct carbon capture and enhanced tree growth. This breakthrough provides promising, simple interventions for climate and biodiversity challenges, with significant implications for national carbon removal strategies.

Net-zero policies designed to improve air quality could help generate £7.7 billion in productivity gains for the U.K. by 2050, according to a new analysis.

Business leaders see sustainability as a source competitiveness but are still concerned about the risks of a ‘disorderly climate transition’, according to a new survey.

PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 06: Wind turbines operate at a wind farm near solar panels on March 06, 2024 near Palm Springs, California. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)Getty Images

A new Ocean Conservancy poll reveals a significant surge in American concern over microplastics, with awareness jumping 32% since 2023. Nearly 90% of respondents are concerned, and 71% view plastic pollution as an urgent ocean threat, primarily due to harm to marine life. Americans strongly support solutions: over 80% back mandatory washing machine filters for microplastic fibers and requiring manufacturers to fund waste management. Experts highlight that synthetic textiles are a major source, with millions of microfibers released per laundry load. Washing machine filters are a proven, readily available solution. Calls are growing for government action, reduced plastic production, and industry responsibility to tackle this pervasive environmental issue.

Recent reports underscore air pollution's broad health impacts beyond the lungs. The World Heart Foundation linked prenatal exposure to a 23% increased risk of congenital heart disease (CHD), noting 70% of air pollution-related deaths are cardiovascular. Critically, 90% of children in lower-income countries lack timely CHD care. Particulate matter (PM2.5) can enter the bloodstream and placenta, affecting fetal development. Another study revealed air pollution causes greater bone mineral density loss in postmenopausal women, disproportionately impacting those in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Furthermore, research suggests a link between long-term air pollution and Parkinson's disease, highlighting an urgent need for more studies on this pervasive public health threat.

New analysis shows local authorities' efforts against air pollution in England saved nearly 14,000 lives and £15 billion in health damages between 2019-2025. The UK100 report suggests, however, that 4,000 more lives and £2.4 billion could have been saved if councils were more empowered. While local action currently drives 35% of improvements, this could rise to 45% with greater empowerment and resources. Case studies like London's ULEZ demonstrate significant reductions in pollution and related deaths. The report calls for a new Clean Air Act with WHO targets, sustained funding, and an indoor air quality strategy, stressing that political will is vital for continued progress.