NEWSROOM
New molecule can store greenhouse gases
Scientists at Heriot-Watt University have developed cage-like molecules that can store gases such as carbon dioxide. Speaking to the Evening Standard, Dr. Marc Little, who co-led the project, explained that the molecules represent an alternative to tree-planting, which is an effective, but slow, form of carbon capture. He expressed the hope that the growth of AI would enable studies like this to “solve the most pressing social challenges”.
Polluters’ tax could raise $900bn for green transition
A new report argues that a levy aimed at the largest fossil fuel companies could raise hundreds of billions of dollars by the end of the decade. The Climate Damages Tax report calls for a tax of $5 per tonne of CO2 equivalent, starting this year, increasing by $5 each year, to be paid by fossil fuel companies in OECD countries. Of the money raised, they earmark $720bn for the loss and damage fund set up at COP28 to help climate-vulnerable nations in the Global South. The suggestion comes as leaders meet in Abu Dhabi to discuss how the fund will be financed.
Permanent cure for skin cancer nears as mRNA vaccine trialled
Doctors at UCLH in London have started a trial of the first custom-built mRNA vaccine for melanoma, a skin cancer that affects 132,000 people per year globally. Hundreds of test patients will now receive personalised treatment, as tumor samples from each individual are used to create bespoke jabs – made possible through artificial intelligence. Earlier trials found a 49% reduction in mortality compared to the general population. Speaking to The Guardian, leading scientist Dr. Heather Shaw referred to the trial as “one of the most exciting things we’ve seen in a really long time.”
Paris goes vegetarian in sustainable Olympic drive
Ahead of this summer’s Olympics in Paris, organisers have announced plans to prioritise local produce and plant-forward menus in a drive to halve emissions from the average 3.5mn tonnes produced at Rio and London. As part of the announcement, 80% of ingredients must come from French sources – with a focus on regional specialities as events move around the country. Some 60% of the 13mn meals and snacks estimated to be sold during the Olympics should be vegetarian – particularly in Paris and the surrounding Île-de-France region. The news comes as part of a raft of sustainability edicts to hold the organisers to strict standards – including limits on new infrastructure and a ban on plastic cutlery.
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