The impact has extended far beyond the immediate spill. Coastal communities, particularly artisanal fishers, have faced lasting economic and social consequences as fishing activities were disrupted and biodiversity declined. Even years later, traces of contamination remain, raising ongoing concerns about environmental recovery, public health , and the effectiveness of accountability measures.

This story is part of Global South Voices, with footage and interviews captured by Eugenio Albrecht.

The march began on April 8 in El Porvenir with around 100 participants, but organisers say the movement has grown significantly, now drawing about 3,000 people .

Demonstrators are calling for the repeal of Law 1720, which they say could undermine land rights in Indigenous and rural communities.

Feyfer Quajiru, Executive Secretary of the Harakbut, Yine, and Matsiguenga Council, said the protest movement has three main demands.

“We have three demands. First, the immediate repeal of Law 1720. Second, the immediate legal protection of our lands. And third, the anti-blockade law, which we will not accept either, just as we will not accept other laws being passed without consultation, without proper engagement with the public,” he said.

The long-term trajectory, illustrated by historical data, shows emissions accelerating sharply after the mid-20th century, a shift scientists link to industrialisation, population growth and the expansion of fossil fuel use.

In 1750, at the dawn of the industrial era, global CO₂ emissions were minimal, measured in just a few million tonnes annually.

By contrast, emissions from fossil fuels and cement were projected to reach around 38.1 billion tonnes (GtCO₂) in 2025 , marking a new all-time high, according to the Global Carbon Project.

This represents an increase of more than 4,000 times over pre-industrial levels, highlighting the scale of human impact on the atmosphere.

While emissions rose gradually during the 19th century, the steepest increase came after World War II, as economies expanded rapidly and energy demand surged.

Global emissions jumped from around 6 billion tonnes in 1950 to over 25 billion tonnes by 2000, before accelerating further in the 21st century.

Researchers say this period, often referred to as the “Great Acceleration”, transformed emissions from a slow-growing trend into a steep upward curve.

Coal, oil and gas continue to account for the vast majority of global emissions. The 2025 budget indicates that all major fossil fuel sources are still contributing to growth, despite the expansion of renewable energy.

China, the United States and India remain the largest emitters globally, reflecting both population size and industrial activity.

The rise in emissions has translated directly into higher concentrations of CO₂ in the atmosphere.

Global average atmospheric CO₂ levels reached around 422–425 parts per million in 2024–2025, roughly 50% higher than pre-industrial levels, according to the Global Carbon Budget.

Scientists warn that this increase is a key driver of global warming and climate instability.

Despite decades of climate negotiations, emissions continue to rise. The Global Carbon Budget projects a further 1.1% increase in 2025 , suggesting that global emissions have yet to reach a definitive peak.

While around 35 countries have managed to reduce emissions while growing their economies, these gains have been outweighed by increases elsewhere.

Scientists warn that the remaining “carbon budget”, the amount of CO₂ humanity can emit while limiting warming to 1.5°C, is rapidly being depleted.

At current emission rates, that budget could be exhausted within the next decade, raising the risk of more severe climate impacts, including extreme weather, sea-level rise and ecosystem disruption.

Data from World Visualized places the Norwegian capital at the top, with 48.9% of cars being electric, followed by Bergen at 38.9%, highlighting the country’s clear advantage in adoption rates.

This position reflects a sustained national strategy. Electric cars make up r oughly 82% of new vehicle sales in Norway , a figure that continues to edge higher, supported by tax reliefs, lower road charges and an extensive charging network, according to the Norwegian Road Federation.

Buyers benefit from exemptions on purchase taxes and VAT, often making electric models more affordable than petrol alternatives. Additional advantages, including access to bus lanes and reduced parking and toll costs, further strengthen their appeal.

Chinese cities are also making significant strides, though with a different model focused on scale and public transport.

Shenzhen, with roughly 33.5% of cars electric, has electrified its entire bus fleet and taxi system, more than 16,000 buses and over 20,000 taxis, making it the first city in the world to do so, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Shanghai follows with around 28%, supported by strong subsidies and a policy that prioritises EV buyers through easier access to licence plates, which are otherwise costly and restricted.

China is now the world’s largest EV market, accounting for nearly 60% of global electric car sales in 2023, the IEA said.

Elsewhere in Europe, Amsterdam stands out with about 22% EV share, supported by one of the densest charging networks globally and strict low-emission zones that discourage petrol and diesel vehicles.

The Netherlands has consistently ranked among the top countries for EV infrastructure , with more than 100,000 public charging points nationwide, according to government data.

In the United States, San Francisco leads major cities with roughly 18.5% of cars being electric, reflecting California’s aggressive climate policies and high consumer purchasing power.

California alone accounts for nearly 40% of all EV sales in the U.S., driven by state mandates requiring a transition to zero-emission vehicles by 2035, according to the California Energy Commission.

However, nationwide adoption remains uneven due to infrastructure gaps and varying state-level policies.

On the other hand, Jakarta’s EV share remains low at around 2.4%, highlighting the challenges faced by emerging economies.

Indonesia has introduced incentives, including reduced value-added tax and regulatory support for domestic EV production, as part of a broader strategy to build a regional electric vehicle hub.

President Prabowo Subianto has signalled ambitions to accelerate the transition, though analysts say infrastructure and affordability remain key barriers.

At the top sits Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, at 2,355 metres above sea level, followed closely by Asmara, Eritrea (2,325 metres). Both cities are located in the Horn of Africa’s highland region, an area defined by elevated plateaus and cooler temperatures compared with the surrounding lowlands.

According to data compiled from World Capitals , the top 10 highest capital cities in Africa are concentrated largely in eastern and southern Africa, where highland geography dominates.

Altitude plays a defining role in shaping these capitals.

Cities such as Nairobi (1,795 metres) and Kigali (1,567 metres) benefit from relatively mild climates despite being near the equator. World Atlas notes that higher elevations often result in cooler temperatures, which can make cities more livable and reduce the spread of certain tropical diseases.

This partly explains why several colonial and post-independence administrations established capitals in elevated regions, a strategic choice for comfort and health .

The ranking is:

These cities sit within or near the East African Rift system, where geological activity has created high plateaus and mountainous terrain over millions of years.

Further south, Windhoek, Namibia (1,721 metres) and Maseru, Lesotho (1,673 metres) also feature prominently, reflecting southern Africa’s elevated interior plateau.

Elevation affects more than just weather .

High-altitude cities often face infrastructure challenges , including transport logistics, construction costs and water supply systems. Steep terrain can complicate road networks and urban expansion, particularly in rapidly growing cities like Kigali and Addis Ababa.

At the same time, these locations can offer advantages. Cooler climates can reduce energy demand for cooling, while scenic landscapes can support tourism and investment.

New guidance based on clothing type and usage suggests that while some items require washing after every use, others can be worn multiple times without risk, challenging long-held habits around cleanliness.

According to hygiene experts and industry bodies, frequency depends largely on how close garments sit to the skin and how much they absorb sweat.

The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) recommends washing underwear, swimwear and workout gear after every use, due to direct contact with sweat and bacteria.

Similarly, the Cleveland Clinic notes that tight-fitting garments trap moisture and microbes, increasing the risk of skin irritation or infections if not cleaned regularly.

But beyond these categories, the rules change.

The environmental cost of overwashing

Here’s the part most people overlook: frequent washing has a measurable environmental impact.

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation, through its A New Textiles Economy initiative , estimates that clothing production and use contribute significantly to global carbon emissions, water use and microplastic pollution.

Washing, drying and ironing alone account for a substantial share of a garment’s lifecycle impact.

Every additional wash increases water consumption, energy use and microfibre pollution , particularly from synthetic fabrics.

What this really means is that simply wearing clothes longer between washes can reduce environmental damage without compromising hygiene.

According to the 2026 Global Navy Index , the United States Navy remains the most capable naval force in the world, even as China commands the largest fleet by ship count.

The Global Navy Index evaluates naval strength on a 0–100 scale, measuring overall combat capability rather than simply the number of vessels. The ranking considers factors such as fleet composition, advanced technology and combat effectiveness.

The United States Navy ranks first with a score of 100, reflecting its unmatched ability to operate across multiple oceans simultaneously. While the U.S. does not possess the largest fleet in raw numbers, it maintains a powerful combination of aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines and advanced destroyers that allow it to project power globally.

The American fleet included 20 capital ships and 146 major combatants in 2026, with 241 ships counted in the core fleet measured by the index. Carrier strike groups, supported by long-range missiles and sophisticated surveillance systems, give the U.S. Navy a level of operational reach no other maritime force currently matches.

China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ranks second in overall capability with an index score of 94, but it stands out as the largest navy in the world by number of vessels.

China’s fleet includes 157 major combatants and more than 1,000 vessels in total, a dramatic expansion driven by the country’s rapid shipbuilding programme over the past two decades.

Beijing has invested heavily in modern destroyers, submarines and aircraft carriers as part of a strategy to secure maritime trade routes and strengthen its influence in the South China Sea and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

Russia occupies third place in the ranking with a score of 75. The Russian Navy operates 79 major combatants and nearly 480 vessels overall, supported by a significant submarine fleet.

Although Russia retains formidable capabilities, particularly in nuclear-powered submarines and missile systems, analysts note that parts of its surface fleet are ageing and undergoing gradual modernisation. Moscow continues to focus its naval strategy on areas such as the Arctic, the North Atlantic and the Black Sea, where it seeks to maintain strategic influence.

North Korea’s navy ranks fourth in the index with a score of 72, largely due to the size of its fleet. The Korean People ’s Army Naval Force operates around 385 vessels, including 75 major combatants, though it lacks large capital ships.

Most of these vessels are smaller patrol ships, submarines and coastal defence craft designed for regional operations rather than long-distance power projection.

Several Asian powers are strengthening their maritime forces as strategic competition intensifies in the Indo-Pacific.

Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force ranks fifth, with an index score of 60. The Japanese fleet includes 75 major combatants and around 154 ships, with a strong emphasis on advanced destroyers, missile defence systems and submarine warfare. Japan’s naval strategy focuses heavily on safeguarding vital sea lanes and maintaining stability in East Asia.

India follows in sixth place with a score of 51. The Indian Navy operates two capital ships, 41 major combatants and roughly 290 vessels in total. India has been steadily expanding its naval capabilities to secure the Indian Ocean region, which carries a large portion of the world’s maritime trade.

Other countries appearing in the ranking include South Korea, Turkey, Indonesia and Finland, each maintaining naval forces designed primarily for regional defence and maritime security.

South Korea’s navy operates 52 major combatants and around 155 ships, while Turkey maintains 191 vessels and 30 major combatants, reflecting its strategic position between the Mediterranean and Black Sea.

Indonesia fields a large fleet of 326 vessels, emphasising maritime patrol across its vast archipelago, while Finland maintains a coastal defence navy of around 200 vessels focused on Baltic security.

Mexico produced approximately 185 million ounces of silver in 2024, maintaining its lead over China and Peru. The country has ranked as the world ’s largest silver producer for more than a decade.

Mexico’s Servicio Geológico Mexicano (SGM) attributes the country’s strong output to its extensive polymetallic deposits, particularly in states such as Zacatecas, Durango and Chihuahua. Many of Mexico’s silver mines also produce lead, zinc and gold as by-products, helping sustain output even amid price volatility.

China ranked second, producing just over 110 million ounces, according to USGS and Metals Focus estimates. Much of China’s silver output is generated as a by-product of base metal mining.

Peru followed closely with production slightly above 108 million ounces. The Andean nation has long been a major silver producer .

Latin American countries continue to play an outsized role in global silver production. Bolivia and Chile produced approximately 48 million and 43 million ounces, respectively, in 2024, according to industry data.

Argentina also featured among the top ten producers with nearly 25 million ounces, while the United States produced roughly 36 million ounces, based on USGS figures.

Poland, Russia and Australia each produced between 38 million and 43 million ounces, according to the World Silver Survey 2024. Canada, while not shown among the very top producers, remains an important contributor to global output, with Natural Resources Canada reporting steady silver production from mines in Ontario, British Columbia and Quebec.

India and Kazakhstan also ranked among the leading producers, while Sweden and Indonesia contributed smaller but significant volumes.

Total global silver mine production in 2024 reached approximately 820 million ounces, according to Metals Focus estimates cited in the Silver Institute’s annual survey. That figure represents a modest recovery compared with recent years affected by pandemic disruptions and operational slowdowns.

The USGS similarly estimates global silver mine production at around 820–830 million ounces for 2024, reflecting stabilisation in major producing regions.

The Silver Institute has reported sustained industrial demand for silver , particularly from the photovoltaic (solar panel) sector, electronics manufacturing and the automotive industry. Analysts at Metals Focus note that the energy transition continues to underpin structural demand growth.

At the same time, investment demand has fluctuated in response to global interest rate expectations and currency movements. Silver prices have remained sensitive to U.S. monetary policy signals, as the metal is often viewed as both an industrial input and a store of value.

At present, each ranger is responsible for around 25,000 hectares, far above the ministry’s target ratio of one ranger per 2,500 hectares.

Rangers are civil servants tasked with patrolling protected areas, preventing illegal logging and encroachment, and enforcing conservation laws. 

Between January and October 2025, the ministry said it prosecuted 34 suspects in 21 illegal logging cases, raided 13 illegal mining sites and foiled 36 attempts to smuggle protected wildlife.

Wildlife poaching problem

Indonesia is widely described as a major hub for wildlife trafficking, reflecting its vast biodiversity. It is considered one of the world’s richest countries in terms of species diversity, making it both a source and a target for organised wildlife crime.

Interpol estimates the global illegal wildlife trade is worth about $20 billion , with Indonesia acting as a source, transit point and destination. Poachers operate on islands including Java, Sumatra and Borneo, capturing species ranging from birds and otters to critically endangered rhinos. 

Many of these animals are sold domestically, while others are trafficked across Asia through organised networks.

Recent court rulings have highlighted the scale of the threat. For instance, in 2025, Indonesian judges handed down prison terms of up to 12 years in a case linked to the killing of between 18 and 26 Javan rhinos over five years.

Despite the scale of the problem, the recruitment drive has drawn criticism. Some wildlife and environment researchers have argued that increasing ranger numbers alone will not address deeper structural issues.

Research indicates that 55.3 million hectares of forest and other land have been allocated to legal concessions, where oversight can be weak. Analysts say much forest degradation occurs within these licensed areas, raising questions over whether enforcement efforts will also target large-scale business operations.

A new map from The World in Maps outlines projected journey times and shows how cities from Lisbon to Tallinn, Stockholm to Athens could be connected through faster, integrated rail corridors. If delivered as proposed, the network would mark one of the most ambitious transport transformations in EU history.

The high-speed expansion aligns with the European Commission’s Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) policy, which aims to build a modern, interoperable transport system across EU member states. The revised TEN-T regulation, politically agreed in 2023, sets binding deadlines for completing core corridors by 2030 and an extended comprehensive network by 2050.

According to the European Commission, high-speed rail is central to achieving the EU’s climate targets under the European Green Deal, which seeks to cut transport emissions by 90% by 2050. Rail already produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions per passenger kilometre than aviation or road transport, making it a cornerstone of decarbonisation strategy.

The Commission has also designated 2021–2030 as Europe’s “Digital and Green Decade” for transport investment, with billions of euros channelled through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) to co-finance cross-border rail infrastructure .

What the proposed travel times suggest

The visual projection highlights significantly reduced journey times between major European cities:

Many of these reductions depend on upgrading existing lines to high-speed standards and eliminating bottlenecks at border crossings, long recognised as weak points in Europe’s rail system.

For example, the long-anticipated Rail Baltica project , supported by the EU and currently under construction, aims to connect Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius and Warsaw via a high-speed standard-gauge line. The European Commission confirms this corridor as a priority TEN-T project intended to better integrate the Baltic states into the wider EU rail network.

Similarly, improvements between Berlin and Prague, and onward to Vienna and Budapest, fall within the North Sea–Baltic and Orient/East-Med core corridors outlined by the EU.

Aviation currently dominates many short-haul European routes. However, the European Environment Agency consistently reports that rail emits far less CO₂ per passenger kilometre compared to flights. As part of the EU’s “Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy”, the Commission aims to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and triple it by 2050.

Cross-border fragmentation has historically limited Europe’s rail competitiveness. Different signalling systems, track gauges, and national regulations have slowed integration. The rollout of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is intended to standardise signalling and improve cross-border efficiency.

The Commission argues that a fully interoperable network would make rail the default choice for journeys under 1,000 kilometres, a distance that covers much of mainland Europe.

With 190 million tonnes of copper reserves, the country's copper deposits, especially the vast porphyry systems in the Atacama Desert, have underpinned its position as the world’s top producer for decades. In 2024, Chile accounted for roughly a quarter of global mine copper output.

Behind Chile, Australia and Peru are tied with around 100 million tonnes of copper reserves each.

South Australia’s copper industry saw strong growth in 2025, with export revenues reaching approximately US$2.19 billion , an increase of around 16 per cent on the previous year, according to state government figures.

The state holds close to 70% of Australia’s economic copper reserves, cementing its position at the heart of the nation’s supply chain.

Peru’s copper wealth comes largely from Andean mountain deposits, including major mines such as Cerro Verde and Antamina. The mining sector is a cornerstone of Peru’s economy, contributing significantly to exports and employment.

Finalising the top five are the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Russia, each estimated to hold about 80 million tonnes of copper reserves.

In the DRC, vast mineral potential has drawn major mining investments, though operations have faced logistical and political challenges. The country is better known for cobalt, another key battery metal, but its copper assets are substantial and increasingly strategic.

Russia, too, has sizeable reserves mainly in Siberia and the Far East. While its copper industry is less export-oriented than those of Chile or Peru, it remains important for domestic manufacturing and metal supply.

An S&P Global study suggests global copper production could face a shortfall of about 10 million metric tonnes by 2040, roughly 24% of expected demand. While consumption is forecast to rise sharply, supply growth is limited by the long lead times and high investment costs required to bring new mines into operation.

Even though recycled copper volumes are expected to more than double over the same period, S&P warns the gap could become a “systemic risk” for industries that depend heavily on the metal.

According to this ranking, cities in equatorial zones and tropical climates dominate the list, where geography and atmospheric circulation combine to produce near-daily precipitation. These figures align with independent climate data that tracks rainfall patterns across thousands of locations worldwide.

Buenaventura, Colombia – 258 Rainy Days

At the top of the list is Buenaventura, a Pacific-coast port city in Colombia. Residents here encounter rain on around 258 days each year. This remarkable frequency is due to a tropical climate with abundant moisture drawn inland from the Pacific Ocean, enhanced by nearby mountainous terrain that forces moist air to rise and condense.

Colombia itself is one of the wettest countries in the world, with annual precipitation totals among the highest anywhere on the planet, thanks to its equatorial location and varied topography.

Manizales, Colombia – 257 Rainy Days

Close behind is Manizales, another Colombian city famed for its coffee and cool highland climate. Its position on the Andean slopes draws persistent cloud cover and rainfall, with around 257 rainy days per year.

San Vito, Costa Rica, and Quito, Ecuador – 253 Days

Costa Rica and Ecuador claim the next two spots. San Vito in southern Costa Rica and Quito, Ecuador’s capital, perched high in the Andes, both average 253 days of rain annually. In these regions, the Intertropical Convergence Zone and local mountain microclimates play a big role in maintaining near-year-round rainfall.

Sangolqui, Ecuador – 245 Rainy Days

Just outside Quito lies Sangolqui, another Andean community where wet conditions are the norm. At approximately 245 rainy days a year, Sangolqui reflects the broader pattern of heavy rainfall in the equatorial highlands.

Equatorial Guinea, Ecuador, Indonesia – 244 Days

Three cities share 244 rainy days per year: Niefang and Micomeseng in Equatorial Guinea, Baños in Ecuador, and Timika in Indonesia. All lie in tropical rainforest climates near the equator, where intense solar heating and moisture convergence support daily showers and thunderstorms for much of the year.

Douala, Cameroon – 243 Rainy Days

Rounding out the top ten is Douala in Cameroon, Africa. Averaging 243 rainy days annually, this Gulf of Guinea port city sees heavy, often torrential, rainfall driven by moisture from the Atlantic and seasonal monsoon winds.

Rain isn’t evenly spread across the world. The equatorial belt, stretching across South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, tends to get the most rainfall overall. That’s because warm air rises near the equator, drawing in moisture and generating convectional rainfall almost daily.

This doesn’t necessarily make these places the wettest by total volume; that title still goes to legendary spots like Mawsynram in India , which records some of the highest annual precipitation totals on Earth, but it does make them the places where it rains most often.

The data shows that identified copper deposits, that is, those already discovered but not yet mined, contain about 2.1 billion metric tons of the metal. When added to what’s already been produced, the total discovered copper comes to about 2.8 billion metric tons.

Here’s where it gets even more remarkable:

In other words, only about 11 % of the planet’s estimated copper has actually been mined so far.

Moreso, copper matters because it’s a foundational material for everything from electrical wiring and plumbing to renewable energy systems and electric vehicle batteries. Its conductivity, durability and recyclability make it indispensable to modern infrastructure.

That’s why demand has surged in recent years, driven by technologies linked to electrification, green energy, electric vehicles and even artificial intelligence infrastructure, all of which rely heavily on copper.

According to industry reports, global demand for copper could grow significantly over the next decade as the clean energy transition accelerates.

Where the world’s copper is found

While a massive amount of copper remains undiscovered, the majority of identified reserves are concentrated in a handful of countries:

Despite copper’s critical role in the global economy, recent exploration activity has struggled to uncover new major deposits. An analysis by S&P Global found that between 1990 and 2023, 239 copper deposits meeting strict size thresholds were identified, containing roughly 1.315 billion metric tons of copper. However, the number of discoveries in recent years has been declining.

“I recently met with several foreign leaders in South Korea, and they shared their criticism about Bali’s beaches. They told me, ‘Your Excellency, I just returned from Bali. The beaches are so dirty now. Bali is no longer as beautiful,’” Prabowo said. 

“We should take these remarks as constructive feedback and work together to address the issue,” he added.

Within days, Bali authorities launched large-scale clean-up operations across several beaches, including Kuta and Kedonganan, deploying police, military personnel, students and volunteers. Several tonnes of waste were cleared in a single day.

Bali Police spokesperson Ariasandy said public participation was essential to protecting marine ecosystems and sustaining tourism, a key pillar of the island’s economy.

A special task force was also formed for Kuta Beach, designed to respond rapidly to tidal waste washing ashore.

Big picture

However, these beach clean-ups only highlight a wider national challenge. 

According to government data, Indonesia generated about 31.9 million tonnes of waste in 2023. While roughly two-thirds was managed, more than 11 million tonnes remained unmanaged.

Limited landfill capacity, rapid population growth and weak waste sorting have worsened the problem. In Bali alone, nearly all landfill sites are close to full, while only about 48 per cent of waste is properly recycled or disposed of.

Plastic waste is a major concern, as the Indonesian Institute of Sciences estimated Indonesia releases more than 600,000 tonnes of plastic into the ocean each year, threatening marine biodiversity and coral reef systems.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme , Indonesia is the world’s second largest plastic polluter, trailing only China. Its plastic problem is so bad that an estimated 10 billion plastic carry bags are said to be released into the environment each year.

What Indonesia is doing

In response, authorities have begun tightening regulations. Bali has banned single-use plastic bags, straws, cups and styrofoam across businesses, schools and government offices, and restricted the sale of small bottled water.

Waste sorting is now mandatory in many sectors, with organic waste required to be composted and recyclable materials separated to reduce pressure on landfills.

Beyond clean-ups and bans, Indonesia is turning to technology. The government plans to expand waste-to-energy facilities, which convert rubbish into electricity, especially in areas producing more than 1,000 tonnes of waste daily.

Problem solved by 2027?

India has set an ambitious target to significantly resolve the country’s waste problem by 2027 , with Prabowo calling towering landfill sites “embarrassing” for a major economy.

Pilot projects are already underway. In Banten province, waste is being processed into refuse-derived fuel and co-fired with coal at power plants, cutting landfill volumes and creating local jobs.

Indonesia ultimately aims to shift toward a circular economy, treating waste as a resource rather than a burden.

For Bali and other tourism destinations in Indonesia, Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhani said beach clean-up drives will now be expanded nationwide under the government’s Clean Tourism Movement.

While challenges remain, Indonesia’s response signals a more coordinated effort to tackle one of its – and perhaps, the world's – most visible problems

According to the figures, South America and parts of Europe are among the best-resourced regions. Countries such as Argentina stand out globally, with more than 200 psychologists per 100,000 people, placing them among the highest in the world.

Chile and Uruguay also show strong coverage, reflecting long-standing investment in mental health services and professional training. In Western Europe, nations like Germany, France, and the Nordic countries report relatively high psychologist density, supported by public healthcare systems that integrate mental health into primary care.

By contrast, the picture is far more concerning across Africa, South Asia , and parts of the Middle East. WHO data show that many countries in these regions have fewer than one psychologist per 100,000 people, and in some cases, no formally registered psychologists at all.

In India and China, despite their large populations, the number of psychologists per capita remains extremely low. Sub-Saharan Africa faces the most severe shortages, where mental health services are often delivered by non-specialists due to a lack of trained professionals.

High-income countries outside Europe also show mixed results. The United States has roughly 30 psychologists per 100,000 people, while Canada sits higher at close to 50. Australia, however, ranks among global leaders with over 100 psychologists per 100,000, reflecting strong government funding, insurance coverage, and public awareness around mental health.

The WHO has repeatedly warned that the global mental health workforce crisis is one of the most urgent public health challenges of the decade. Mental and substance-use disorders account for a significant share of global disability, yet less than 2% of national health budgets are typically allocated to mental health in low- and middle-income countries.

WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, stresses this phenomenon with “Transforming mental health services is one of the most pressing public health challenges. Investing in mental health means investing in people, communities, and economies – an investment no country can afford to neglect. Every government and every leader has a responsibility to act with urgency and to ensure that mental health care is treated not as a privilege, but as a basic right for all.”

According to data compiled from Guinness World Records , the current leader is Pepper X, officially recognised by Guinness as the hottest pepper in the world.

Tested at an average of 2.69 million SHU, Pepper X was developed by American grower Ed Currie, the same breeder behind the Carolina Reaper. For context, a jalapeño typically measures around 5,000 SHU. Pepper X is not designed for casual eating; it exists at the outer edge of biological tolerance.

Close behind is the famous Carolina Reaper, which held the Guinness World Record for nearly a decade. With heat levels reaching 2.2 million SHU , the Reaper became globally known not just for its burn, but for popularising competitive chilli challenges and hot sauce culture.

Other peppers dominating the top tier include the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion (about 2 million SHU) and 7 Pot Douglah, both native to Trinidad and Tobago. These varieties get their names from the claim that a single pepper can heat seven pots of stew, which is a true testament to their intensity.

The list also includes peppers that once held world titles or remain infamous among spice enthusiasts. The Naga Viper, bred in the UK, briefly held the Guinness title in 2011. The Ghost Pepper (Bhut Jolokia) was the first chilli ever verified to exceed 1 million SHU, marking a turning point in chilli research and breeding.

Lower down the ranking but still dangerously hot are the 7 Pot Barrackpore and the Red Savina Habanero, which once set records before newer hybrids overtook them.

Capsaicin, the compound responsible for spiciness, is studied for its effects on pain response, metabolism, and even potential medical applications. That said, Guinness World Records and health authorities strongly caution against consuming super-hot peppers raw, as they can cause severe physical reactions if eaten irresponsibly.

What this ranking ultimately shows is how far chilli cultivation has evolved. Through careful cross-breeding and testing, growers have pushed natural limits, transforming peppers into global icons of extreme flavour and endurance.

Data from the U.S. Geological Survey reveals that China dominates global rare earth reserves, holding an estimated 44.0 million metric tons, roughly 48% of the world’s known supply. This scale translates directly into economic leverage.

Control over raw materials allows China to influence pricing, supply chains, and downstream industries such as battery manufacturing, renewable energy infrastructure, and defence technologies.

The USGS has repeatedly highlighted that access to critical minerals increasingly determines technological competitiveness, not just industrial capacity.

Brazil ranks second globally, with about 21.0 million metric tons, accounting for 23% of known reserves. Its deposits include both ionic clay and hard-rock formations, which are considered among the most promising outside China.

However, much of Brazil’s rare earth potential is said to remain at an early development stage. Infrastructure , processing capacity, and regulatory frameworks are still catching up. As a result, Brazil’s short-term impact on global supply remains limited, despite its geological strength.

Beyond China and Brazil, reserve concentration remains pronounced. The top six countries, including Vietnam, Russia and Australia, control roughly 80% of known global reserves, leaving many advanced economies exposed to supply risks.

The United States holds approximately 1.9 million metric tons, about 2% of global reserves, according to the USGS.

Some of the most closely watched reserves also sit outside the traditional leaders. Canada, with roughly 0.83 million metric tons, and Greenland, with about 1.5 million metric tons, are increasingly viewed as diversification options.

Antarctica is home to an estimated 44 million penguins, making it by far the largest stronghold for the species. According to World Population Review , this figure includes massive colonies of Adélie, Emperor, Chinstrap, and Gentoo penguins.

After Antarctica, Chile holds the second-largest penguin population in the world, with roughly 13 million birds. Its long southern coastline supports Humboldt, Magellanic, and Gentoo penguins.

Neighbouring regions also play an important role, as the Falkland Islands have approximately 1.2 million penguins, Argentina has around 1 million, and Peru has roughly 4,000 birds.

Penguins are not confined to icy environments. South Africa is home to about 60,000 African penguins, while Namibia supports roughly 26,000. These birds live in temperate climates and depend heavily on sardine and anchovy stocks.

In Oceania, Australia has around 500,000 penguins, mainly Little Blue penguins and New Zealand hosts a similar number, including Yellow-eyed and Little Blue species.

The African penguin is, however, currently classified as endangered by the WWF, with populations declining sharply due to food shortages and human activity.

Countries like Brazil , with about 10,000 penguins, sit at the edges of penguin migration routes. These birds are often vulnerable, as they are far from core breeding grounds and more likely to be affected by changing ocean currents.

Penguins are indicator species. When their populations drop, it signals deeper problems in marine ecosystems. The World Wildlife Fund notes that protecting penguins means protecting fisheries, ocean biodiversity, and climate stability at the same time.

The death toll from a landslide in Indonesia’s West Java province rose to 17 on Monday, as search and rescue operations entered a third day, disaster officials said. The landslide, triggered by heavy rain, struck a village in West Bandung regency early on Saturday, burying homes and forcing dozens of residents to evacuate. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency said around 80 people were still missing as of Sunday, with no updated figure provided. Rescuers are working cautiously amid unstable ground and ongoing bad weather, which have raised fears of further landslides. Thousands of personnel and heavy equipment have been deployed to locate victims.

Indonesia finishes second at ASEAN Para Games with 135 gold medals

Indonesia finished second in the final medal standings of the 2025 ASEAN Para Games , winning 135 gold, 143 silver and 114 bronze medals across 18 sports contested from January 19 to 25 in Thailand. The result exceeded the government’s target of 82 gold medals and surpassed expectations after consistent performances throughout the week-long competition. Para athletics led Indonesia’s medal haul with 44 golds, followed by para swimming with 29 golds. Strong contributions also came from para badminton, para powerlifting and para judo. Indonesia had aimed to finish at least in the top three.

Environment ministry sues six firms over North Sumatra disaster

Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment has filed a civil lawsuit against six companies in North Sumatra, seeking Rp4.9 trillion (US$282 million) in damages for allegedly worsening hydrometeorological disasters in the province. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said the case is being processed in court and more lawsuits will follow against other entities. The ministry is also investigating possible criminal offences by companies in Aceh and North Sumatra with the National Police. Authorities are monitoring 68 companies across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, all of which have received administrative sanctions requiring mandatory environmental audits as part of wider enforcement efforts nationwide.

ATM numbers fall as digital banking accelerates

Indonesia’s ATM network is expected to keep shrinking as digital banking and cashless payments gain ground, the Financial Services Authority (OJK) said. OJK chief banking supervisor Dian Ediana Rae said banks are cutting physical infrastructure in response to changing customer behaviour driven by financial technology. OJK data show the number of ATMs and related machines fell to 89,774 units in the third quarter of 2025, from 91,173 a year earlier, a net drop of nearly 1,400 machines. Rae said mobile and online banking have reduced the need for cash withdrawals, while banks are prioritising efficiency by expanding digital services. The shift supports Indonesia’s move towards a more cashless economy.

Indonesia receives first batch of fighter jets from France

Indonesia has received three Rafale fighter jets from France, marking the first delivery under a 2021 defence deal, the defence ministry said on Monday. The aircraft arrived on Friday, with a formal handover ceremony to be held later. Three additional jets are expected to arrive this year. Indonesia has ordered 42 Rafales worth $8.1 billion as part of efforts to modernise its military amid rising regional tensions. Jakarta has also agreed to buy two French-made Scorpene-class submarines, to be built domestically with technology transfer.

Towering over infantry and cavalry alike, war elephants were deployed for their physical power, psychological impact, and symbolic authority.

These animals played a strategic role in military campaigns for centuries, influencing how wars were fought and how empires expanded.

While there were numerous small-scale and experimental deployments following their introduction around 1100 BC, the presence of war elephants gradually became more structured and strategic, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. There, elephants were trained to charge enemy lines, carry archers or commanders, and instil fear through sheer size and noise.

As military contact increased between civilisations, the practice spread westward. Persian armies were among the first outside South Asia to integrate elephants into organised warfare. This expansion culminated in one of the most significant military encounters of antiquity.

Gaugamela: Europe ’s first encounter with war elephants

The first well-documented conflict involving Europeans and war elephants occurred at the Battle of Gaugamela in October 331 BC. Fought in what is now northern Iraq, the battle pitted Alexander the Great against the Persian king Darius III. Although elephants did not determine the outcome, their presence marked a turning point in European military consciousness.

Ancient sources suggest that the animals caused enough concern for Alexander to take religious precautions before the battle. While his Macedonian army ultimately prevailed, the encounter exposed Greek forces to a form of warfare they had never previously faced, prompting future Hellenistic rulers to adopt elephants themselves.

Following Alexander’s campaigns, war elephants became a prized military asset among his successors. The Seleucid Empire fielded large numbers of elephants sourced from India, while Ptolemaic Egypt developed its own elephant corps.

In the western Mediterranean, Carthage famously employed elephants during the Punic Wars, most notably under Hannibal , whose march across the Alps remains one of the most iconic episodes in military history.

Despite their dramatic impact, elephants were never universally effective. They required extensive training, were difficult to control under stress, and could panic if injured or frightened, sometimes turning against their own troops.

Decline and legacy

By the late classical and early medieval periods, changes in military technology and tactics reduced the battlefield value of war elephants. The rise of disciplined infantry formations, projectile weapons, and eventually firearms made them increasingly vulnerable.

Over time, their role shifted away from frontline combat and into ceremonial, logistical, or symbolic uses.

Still, war elephants shaped ancient military strategy, altered the psychology of warfare, and left a lasting imprint on historical memory.

Here’s what that story looks like:

Louisiana Purchase (1803): The deal that doubled a nation

The biggest land deal in U.S. history began in the wake of Napoleon’s setbacks in Europe. President Thomas Jefferson agreed to pay France $15 million for the vast territory of Louisiana in 1803, nearly doubling the size of the young republic and laying the groundwork for expansion across the continent. The purchase, which stretched from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains, later became all or part of 15 modern states.

Florida Purchase Treaty (1819)

Just over a decade later, the United States turned its attention south. Through the Adams-Onís Treaty , Spain ceded Florida to the U.S., and the government agreed to assume roughly $5 million in claims by American citizens against Spain. That deal didn’t just secure strategic territory; it also clarified borders and eased tensions between two former colonial powers.

Mexican Cession (1848)

The Mexican-American War concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848. Mexico ceded an enormous swath of territory, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and parts of Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico. While not a “purchase” in the classic sense, the U.S. paid $15 million and assumed certain claims as part of the deal, and its scale made it one of the biggest expansions in history.

Gadsden Purchase (1854)

Looking to build a southern transcontinental railroad and settle lingering border disputes with Mexico, U.S. diplomats negotiated the 1854 Gadsden Purchase. For $10 million, the United States acquired nearly 30,000 square miles of what is now southern Arizona and New Mexico, finalising the contiguous continental border.

Alaska Purchase (1867)

Perhaps the most infamous bargain was the Alaska Purchase . In 1867, the U.S. bought more than half a million square miles from Russia for just $7.2 million, about two cents per acre. Critics at the time mocked it as “Seward’s Folly,” but the territory proved rich in resources and strategic value, eventually becoming the 49th state.

U.S. Virgin Islands (1917)

Not all American purchases were on the mainland. In 1917, during World War I, the United States bought the Danish West Indies , now the U.S. Virgin Islands, from Denmark for $25 million in gold. The acquisition secured a key naval position in the Caribbean and remains the most recent major land purchase for the country.

Across the Middle East, the Americas and parts of Eurasia, proven oil reserves run into the hundreds of billions of barrels.

These figures represent oil that is technically recoverable under current economic and technological conditions. But they are not a guarantee of production, nor do they reflect how easily that oil can be brought to market.

Venezuela continues to lead the world in proven crude oil reserves, with around 303 billion barrels documented beneath its soil, nearly one-fifth of all known reserves globally.

Most of this oil is located in the vast Orinoco Belt, a region rich in extra-heavy crude. These reserves are technically recoverable, but turning them into export-ready barrels has historically posed major challenges. Many experts argue that much of Venezuela’s certified “proven” total is tied up in heavier, harder-to-refine crude that is expensive to extract and process.

Saudi Arabia follows closely with roughly 267 billion barrels of proven reserves, supported by decades of investment in extraction, refining and export infrastructure. Vast fields such as Ghawar underpin the kingdom’s role as a stabilising force in global supply and a central player within OPEC.

Iran also ranks among the world’s leading reserve holders, with more than 200 billion barrels of proven crude. Its reserves are largely conventional and geologically favourable, yet sanctions and limited access to international capital have constrained how much of this oil reaches global markets. The result is a gap between geological potential and real-world output.

Outside the Middle East, oil wealth takes different forms. Canada’s vast reserves are driven largely by oil sands, which significantly boost its reserve figures but come with higher extraction costs and environmental scrutiny.

Russia holds substantial reserves spread across Siberia and other regions, highlighting its role as a major energy exporter despite logistical and geopolitical challenges. In the United States, proven reserves are smaller by comparison, but advanced technology and investment have enabled high production levels, particularly from shale formations.

Other countries such as Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Libya form a second tier of oil-rich states. Many of these nations possess large, relatively low-cost reserves but differ widely in political stability, investment climate and production capacity. Together, they reinforce how unevenly oil resources and the ability to exploit them are distributed worldwide.

One of the biggest misconceptions is assuming that reserves equal supply . They do not. Reserve figures say little about how much oil a country produces day-to-day, how resilient its infrastructure is, or how vulnerable it may be to political or economic disruption. Some nations convert a high share of their reserves into steady exports, while others struggle to do so despite large resource bases.

Rescue teams are still operating under what officials describe as “rescue mode,” after detectors picked up possible signs of life beneath the debris. However, authorities are weighing whether to shift to retrieval operations as the critical 72-hour window has passed.

What happened

An avalanche of garbage, soil and debris swept through part of the landfill, burying low-lying buildings used by workers. Survivors said the collapse happened suddenly, in clear weather, leaving little time to escape.

Those killed and missing were all employees at the landfill and materials recovery facility. Several people were pulled out alive in the hours following the collapse, though one later died in hospital.

Officials say the unstable structure of the site is slowing rescue efforts. The mayor warned that cutting through metal debris could trigger fires due to trapped gases, putting both survivors and rescuers at risk.

Operations halted

In response, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources ordered the immediate suspension of landfill operations. The cease-and-desist order allows rescue, retrieval and clean-up work to continue but bars further waste dumping.

The landfill operator has also been summoned to a technical conference and ordered to submit a compliance plan within 90 days, as authorities investigate whether safety and environmental standards were breached.

A wider problem

The Cebu disaster has renewed scrutiny of the Philippines’ overstretched landfill system . Government data show that four out of 18 major landfills nationwide have already exceeded their designed capacity, raising the risk of so-called “waste slides.”

Environmental experts warn that continuing to dump rubbish into already overfilled sites increases the likelihood of collapses, especially as waste piles grow taller and heavier.

The problem persists despite a landmark law passed after a deadly 2000 dump collapse in Manila, which mandated the closure of open dumps and the use of sanitary landfills. More than two decades on, auditors say the number of compliant facilities remains insufficient.

Rising waste

The Philippines’ annual waste output continues to rise sharply. From around 9 million tonnes in 2000, it is projected to exceed 23 million tonnes within the next few years, according to government estimates.

Auditors have warned that unless waste generation is reduced and landfill capacity expanded safely, disasters like the one in Cebu could become more frequent — posing growing risks to public health, workers and surrounding communities.

Brazil ’s president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has vetoed a controversial bill that would have dramatically shortened the 27-year prison sentence of former president Jair Bolsonaro, who is serving time for his role in plotting a coup after losing the 2022 election. The bill, passed by Congress in December 2025, would have cut Bolsonaro’s sentence to just over two years and reduced penalties for others convicted over the January 8, 2023 attacks on government buildings in Brasília. Lula says the convictions were based on fair trials and substantial evidence. Congress could still override the veto. Bolsonaro began his sentence in November 2025 and remains barred from running for office until at least 2030.

Brazil pork exports hit a record and poised to overtake Canada

Brazil’s pork industry achieved a new milestone in 2025, exporting 1.51 million tonnes of pork, an 11.6% increase from the previous year, and is set to surpass Canada as one of the world’s top exporters. Export revenues climbed to US$3.62 billion, up nearly 20% year-on-year. The Philippines emerged as Brazil’s largest buyer, while China, Chile, Japan and Hong Kong also took significant volumes. The boom is credited to diversified international demand and strengthened market access.

Beekeepers warn lithium mining threatens bees in Brazil

Beekeepers in Brazil’s Jequitinhonha Valley are raising alarms that expanding lithium mining, driven by global demand for battery minerals, is disturbing traditional ecosystems where wild beehives once thrived. Local farmers and apiarists, including Aécio Luiz, report that bees are harder to find and honey production is declining as mining activities grow. This region hosts a large share of Brazil’s lithium deposits, which are critical for electric vehicle and renewable energy markets, but the environmental impacts are increasingly prompting community concern.

Neymar extends Santos deal to chase World Cup return

Brazil forward Neymar has extended his contract with Santos until the end of 2026 as he targets a return to the national team ahead of the World Cup. The 33-year-old, who rejoined Santos in January 2025, has not played for Brazil since 2023 due to injury setbacks. He helped the club avoid relegation last season, scoring five goals in their final five matches, before undergoing knee surgery to repair a damaged meniscus. Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, Neymar, is working to regain full fitness to meet coach Carlo Ancelotti’s recall criteria. Brazil will face Scotland, Morocco and Haiti in Group C when the World Cup begins on 11 June in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Roberto Carlos hospitalised, recovering

Brazil and Real Madrid great Roberto Carlos says he is recovering well after undergoing a planned preventative medical procedure. The 52-year-old shared an update on Instagram, posting a photo from his hospital bed and dismissing reports that he had suffered a heart attack. He said the procedure was successful and carried out in advance with his medical team. Carlos thanked supporters for their messages and said he expects to return to full fitness soon.

Its development has been closely tied to Singapore’s push for digitalisation. The farm’s AI capabilities were built with support from the Infocomm Media Development Authority’s Digital Leaders Programme, which also helped the firm hire data engineers and software developers.

Technology underpins much of the operation, from monitoring crop conditions to optimising energy consumption. Automation has reduced reliance on manpower, a critical advantage in a city where labour is costly and scarce.

Greenphyto has also been backed by the Singapore Food Agency’s Agri-food Cluster Transformation Fund, which supports local farms in adopting new technologies and raising productivity as part of national food security efforts.

Beyond production, demand remains a decisive issue. Drumming up interest in, and sales of, local produce is essential if urban farms are to thrive alongside cheaper imports.

As the company continues to scale up, managing costs will be critical.

Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Zaqy Mohamad said it was important for production costs to be controlled so vegetables remain affordable and comparable in price to imported alternatives.

Greenphyto is also positioning itself as a technology exporter. The company has set up offices in Malaysia and the Netherlands to sell its vertical farming system globally.

It is additionally exploring plans to export its vegetables to Malaysia, extending its commercial footprint beyond Singapore’s domestic market.

To broaden its reach further, Greenphyto is planning a technology spin-off, Arber.ai, which will offer consultancy services to help other farms and local small and medium-sized enterprises adopt digital solutions in their operations.

New trade estimates show Venezuela exporting roughly 772,000 barrels per day (bpd) of oil to global buyers, with China and the US taking the lion’s share, a striking development amid intensifying military and diplomatic pressure.

China imported approximately 351,000 barrels per day (bpd) of Venezuelan oil in 2024, making it the largest buyer by far. The United States imported roughly 222,000 bpd, with Europe (75,000 bpd) and India (63,000 bpd) also on the list, alongside smaller volumes to Cuba and other destinations.

The United States ranking second may appear counterintuitive, given Washington’s sanctions on Venezuela’s state oil company PDVSA. However, US imports increased after the Biden administration granted licences allowing companies such as Chevron to resume limited operations and exports.

Reuters has reported that Venezuelan crude is particularly well-suited to US Gulf Coast refineries, many of which are configured to process heavy oil. As a result, shipments to the US rose sharply in 2023 and 2024 following the partial relaxation of restrictions.

But the backdrop to these trade figures has changed dramatically. In early January 2026, the United States launched large-scale military strikes on Venezuelan territory, including air operations around Caracas, and captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife in a controversial operation conducted by U.S. forces.

The offensive , dubbed Operation Absolute Resolve, involved bombing key military sites, and Maduro and his wife were taken to the United States to face drug-related criminal charges. Venezuela and multiple international actors have condemned the action as a violation of sovereignty and international law.

In late 2025, the U.S. sanctioned four Venezuelan oil companies and four tankers accused of supporting the Maduro regime, moves designed to choke off revenue from the country’s main economic lifeline. U.S. authorities also seized sanctioned tankers at sea and conducted drone strikes at dock facilities linked with cartel activities, part of a campaign described by Washington as aimed at narcotics and terror networks.

These territorial changes carry regional weight. The Houthis’ close links with Iran remain a central concern for Saudi Arabia and its Gulf partners, who see Yemen as part of a wider strategic contest. Since the conflict intensified in 2014, tens of thousands have been killed, and nearly half of the population now relies on humanitarian aid, according to the International Crisis Group.

Despite backing from Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, the government has struggled to consolidate power, weakened by internal divisions and rival southern factions pushing for greater autonomy. The result is a fragmented political landscape that complicates efforts to end the war and stabilise the country.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, located just southwest of the Houthi-controlled areas, remains a flashpoint. The U.S. and allied navies have recently increased patrols to keep commercial traffic flowing after a spike in attacks on tankers and cargo ships initiated by Saudi Arabia last week.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia and Iran have signalled interest in diplomacy, including mediated talks in recent months. Still, scepticism persists on whether any agreement can withstand deep distrust built over years of proxy conflict.

For Yemen’s civilians, the fractured map above means continued uncertainty. Aid groups warn that disruptions in access to food, medicine and basic services remain severe. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that more than 17 million people are in need of urgent assistance.

Philippines — Super typhoons and flooding | Southeast Asia

In 2025, the Philippines endured another punishing typhoon season as warmer ocean waters intensified storms across the western Pacific. Several super typhoons made landfall within months, unleashing torrential rains, storm surges and widespread flooding. Coastal and low-lying communities were repeatedly displaced, while damage to crops, homes and transport networks accumulated with each successive storm. Authorities warned that recovery time between disasters is shrinking, leaving millions more exposed. Climate scientists continue to link the growing intensity of typhoons to rising sea surface temperatures driven by global warming.

Mexico — Floods and landslides | Latin America

Severe flooding and landslides struck parts of Mexico in late 2025 after days of relentless rainfall overwhelmed rivers and hillsides. Entire neighbourhoods were submerged as infrastructure collapsed, particularly in regions already affected by deforestation and rapid urban expansion. Emergency services struggled to reach isolated communities as roads and bridges were washed away. The disaster once again highlighted how climate change is amplifying rainfall extremes across Latin America. For many vulnerable communities, the impacts were worsened by long-standing social and economic inequalities.

Nigeria — Flash floods | West Africa

In late May, torrential rains along the Kaduna River triggered devastating flash floods in Nigeria’s Niger State. Villages around Mokwa and Minna were inundated within minutes, killing at least 151 people and displacing thousands more. Hundreds of homes were destroyed, while farmland and transport links were severely damaged. Beyond the immediate death toll, the floods wiped out crops during a critical agricultural period, threatening local food supplies. Relief agencies described the disaster as one of the worst flooding events Nigeria has seen in decades.

Nepal — Glacial lake outburst flood | South Asia

A sudden glacial lake outburst on the Nepal–China border in July sent a wall of water down the Bhote Koshi river, devastating border communities. The flood destroyed major bridges and hydropower facilities, killing dozens and leaving others missing on both sides of the frontier. Nearly eight per cent of Nepal’s electricity generation capacity was knocked offline overnight. Scientists pointed to accelerating glacial melt in the Himalayas as a key driver of the disaster. The event underscored the growing risks climate change poses to high-mountain regions.

India — Monsoon floods and landslides | South Asia

India’s northeastern states faced deadly floods and landslides in June as unusually intense monsoon rains overwhelmed rivers and unstable terrain. Assam, Manipur and Meghalaya were among the worst affected, with dozens killed and thousands forced into shelters. Entire districts were cut off as roads collapsed and communication lines failed. While monsoons are a seasonal reality, experts warned that climate change is making rainfall more erratic and destructive. The disaster exposed the fragile infrastructure of one of India’s most climate-vulnerable regions.

South Africa — Unseasonal flooding | Southern Africa

In May, heavy rainfall from an unseasonal cold-front system triggered deadly flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province. Rivers burst their banks, sweeping away homes, schools and vehicles. At least 49 people were killed, including schoolchildren whose bus was caught in floodwaters near Mthatha. Authorities declared a national disaster as emergency crews struggled to reach submerged communities. Climate specialists noted that shifting weather patterns are making extreme rainfall events more frequent, even outside traditional wet seasons.

Brazil — Wildfires in the Amazon | South America

The Amazon basin experienced a surge in wildfires during 2025 as prolonged drought and record temperatures dried out vast stretches of rainforest. Fires spread rapidly across Brazil ’s northern states, destroying ecosystems, displacing Indigenous communities and releasing massive amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Smoke from the blazes darkened skies hundreds of kilometres away, triggering health warnings in major cities. Scientists warned that climate change, combined with deforestation, is pushing the rainforest closer to a tipping point. The fires reinforced fears that the Amazon is losing its ability to act as a global carbon sink.

Argentina and Chile — Drought-driven fires | South America

Across the Southern Cone, extended drought conditions fuelled one of the most severe wildfire seasons in recent years. In Argentina and Chile, parched grasslands and forests ignited easily, allowing fires to spread across millions of hectares. Rural communities were forced to evacuate as livestock, crops and infrastructure were destroyed. Air pollution from the fires also affected urban centres, compounding public health risks. Climate change has lengthened fire seasons in the region, leaving authorities struggling to keep pace.

Horn of Africa — Drought and hunger | East Africa

In the Horn of Africa, prolonged drought conditions continued to drive severe food insecurity throughout 2025. Successive failed rainy seasons in Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya devastated harvests and livestock, eroding livelihoods across rural areas. Millions faced crisis-level hunger as water sources dried up and food prices surged. While not always officially declared as a famine, humanitarian agencies warned that conditions resembled past hunger emergencies. Climate change has intensified drought cycles in the region, magnifying the risks for already vulnerable populations.

Southern Africa — Crop failures and food stress | Southern Africa

Large parts of Southern Africa entered 2025 grappling with the aftershocks of drought and extreme heat that reduced crop yields and strained water supplies. Countries such as Zambia and Malawi reported poor maize harvests, pushing more households towards food assistance. Climate-driven heat stress disrupted planting cycles and reduced agricultural productivity. As rural incomes fell, food insecurity deepened across the region. The crisis illustrated how climate change can quietly undermine food systems long before famine is officially declared.

The infographic, based on World Visualized data, shows that just a handful of countries dominate global pineapple exports, an insight that connects directly to current debates about food security, inflation, and supply-chain resilience.

Costa Rica’s near-monopoly on pineapple exports

At the centre of the global pineapple trade is Costa Rica, which accounts for over 50% of global pineapple exports , valued at approximately $1.4 billion. This dominance is not accidental. According to the CIA World Factbook, agricultural commodities, including bananas, pineapples, and coffee, are core pillars of Costa Rica’s export economy, supported by decades of foreign direct investment and industrial-scale farming.

Major multinational fruit companies operating in Costa Rica, many of which appear on or are connected to firms listed in the Forbes Global 2000, have helped transform the country into the world’s primary pineapple supplier through vertically integrated production, processing, and global distribution networks.

Asia, Europe, and the Role of Trade Hubs

The Philippines, exporting about 15.8% of the world’s pineapples (roughly $430 million), ranks second. Pineapple exports are a major foreign-exchange earner for the country, with agribusiness giants playing a significant role in processing and shipping to East Asian, Middle Eastern, and Western markets.

Interestingly, the Netherlands and Belgium, neither of which are major pineapple grower, rank among the top exporters. Their role reflects Europe’s dependence on logistics and re-export hubs, particularly ports like Rotterdam and Antwerp, which redistribute fresh produce across the EU. This mirrors broader European trade patterns identified in the World Factbook, where high-value re-exports significantly inflate agricultural trade figures.

The United States, Africa, and emerging exporters

The United States, exporting just over 4% of global pineapples, relies heavily on production in Hawaii and re-exports tied to multinational supply chains. Meanwhile, Kenya’s inclusion among the top exporters, even at a smaller share, highlights Africa’s growing footprint in global horticulture, an area increasingly discussed in development and trade policy circles.

This trend aligns with current global news around diversifying food supply chains in response to climate shocks, Red Sea shipping disruptions, and post-pandemic inflation pressures.

Across much of Southern, Central and Eastern Europe , Saturday is derived from “Shabbat”, the Jewish day of rest. Languages such as Italian (sabato), Spanish (sábado), Greek (Savvato) and Russian (subbota) trace their roots to the Hebrew word Shabbat, reflecting early Jewish influence and the spread of Christianity through the Roman and Byzantine worlds.

In English-speaking countries and parts of Western Europe, Saturday instead comes from Latin, meaning the “Day of Saturn,” the Roman god associated with time, wealth and agriculture. The Romans named days after celestial bodies and gods, a system that survives today in English. “Saturday” remains the only weekday in English still named after a Roman deity.

Further north, Scandinavian countries offer a different story. In Swedish (lördag) and related languages, Saturday translates to “bath day.” Historically, this was the day people washed before Sunday worship, linking hygiene with social and religious preparation.

In parts of Finland and the Baltic region, the word is associated with the “sixth day,” reflecting biblical counting traditions rather than naming gods or rituals. Meanwhile, Turkey’s word for Saturday, cumartesi, comes from Arabic and means “after the gathering,” referring to Friday prayers and the day that follows communal worship.

In Portugal, the term sábado is often linked historically to the idea of a “meeting of friends,” tied to rest and social connection rather than religion alone, highlighting how language adapts to local customs over time.

The infographic, based on 2024 data, shows the top 10 natural gas-producing countries, highlights the dominance of a few energy heavyweights at a time when energy security, geopolitics and climate policy are closely linked.

The United States leads by a wide margin, producing just over 1.030 trillion cubic meters of natural gas in 2024. According to data from the Statistical Review of World Energy by the Energy Institute, US output continues to be driven by shale gas and advanced extraction technologies.

This production strength has helped the country solidify its position as the world’s largest exporter of liquefied natural gas , particularly to Europe, as countries seek alternatives to Russian supply following the war in Ukraine.

Russia, with production of around 630 billion cubic meters, remains a major global gas player despite sanctions and reduced pipeline exports to Europe. Energy Institute data show that Moscow has increasingly shifted exports toward Asian markets while expanding LNG capacity to sustain its influence in global energy trade.

Iran and China, producing roughly 263 billion and 248 billion cubic meters respectively, reflect contrasting pressures . Iran’s gas sector is shaped by sanctions and infrastructure constraints, while China’s rising output aligns with Beijing’s push for energy self-sufficiency amid heightened geopolitical competition.

The rest of the top 10 includes Canada, Qatar, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Norway and Algeria. Qatar and Australia stand out for their strong roles in global LNG supply, particularly to Asia and Europe, while Norway has become Europe’s most dependable pipeline gas supplier since Russian flows declined. Algeria continues to play a key role in supplying gas to southern Europe.

These rankings are especially relevant in 2025 as global energy debates intensify. While investment in renewable energy is accelerating, the Energy Institute notes that natural gas remains widely viewed as a transitional fuel for electricity generation and industry.

These nations include China, India, the United States, Indonesia, Pakistan, Nigeria, Brazil, Bangladesh, Russia, Mexico, Ethiopia, Japan, the Philippines, and Egypt, an eclectic mix of economic powerhouses, emerging markets, and developing nations that collectively influence global decisions on trade, climate, security, and migration.

India and China alone account for over one-third of all humans, but their demographic paths are diverging rapidly. India has officially surpassed China as the world’s most populous nation, a milestone confirmed in the UN’s 2023 World Population Prospects.

India’s median age is just 28, compared to China’s 39, giving it a much larger working-age population and potentially shifting economic influence in Asia.

Economists, including analysts at the International Monetary Fund, note that this workforce advantage could help India accelerate industrial growth if job creation and education keep pace.

Africa’s largest populations, Nigeria and Ethiopia, are expected to grow dramatically over the next three decades. Nigeria alone could surpass 375 million people by 2050 to become the world’s third most populous nation . The World Bank warns that rapid growth without matching investment in infrastructure, food systems, and education could strain resources, but it also points to Africa’s youth as an engine for innovation and entrepreneurship in a world facing labour shortages elsewhere.

On the other side of the spectrum are countries like Japan and Russia, where populations are shrinking. Japan’s fertility rate remains one of the lowest in the world, and its population is ageing faster than any other major economy .

Russia faces a similar demographic decline, further impacted by migration and the consequences of the war in Ukraine. Both countries illustrate the serious economic and social challenges tied to shrinking labour forces, from reduced productivity to increasing pressure on healthcare and pension systems.

These demographic realities are shaping today’s global news. At recent G20, UN, and COP28 meetings, leaders acknowledged that population trends directly affect climate negotiations, energy planning, and economic cooperation.

Despite living in a time of abundant information, micronutrient deficiencies affect more than 2 billion people globally , according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). It is a silent crisis that rarely makes headlines but influences everything from children’s growth to adults’ energy levels and long-term health outcomes.

Many of these deficiencies stem not from a lack of food, however, but from a lack of nutrient-rich foods.

The WHO reports that deficiencies in vitamins A, B12, D, and folate remain common across regions and contribute to increased infections , pregnancy complications, reduced productivity, and even mortality.

For example:

Harvard’s School of Public Health stresses that vitamins work best when they come from real foods , because foods contain synergistic compounds like phytonutrients, fibre, and minerals that help vitamins perform their roles effectively.

Breaking down the vitamins and the foods we often overlook

Vitamin A – The Vision and Immunity Protector

Daily need: 800 mcg

From foods like carrots, leafy greens, and liver

Vitamin A deficiency affects over 190 million children worldwide. It supports vision, skin health, immunity, and the development of tissues.

B Vitamins – The Body’s Engine Room

Benefits: Energy production, brain function, metabolism

Sources: eggs, nuts, grains, beans, meat

Each B vitamin plays a distinct role. For example:

Vitamin C – The Repair and Immunity Builder

Daily need: 85 mg

Sources: citrus, tomatoes, peppers

Vitamin C supports collagen production, which is critical for skin, bones, and wound healing, and strengthens the immune system.

Vitamin D – The Sunshine Nutrient

Daily need: 20 mcg

Sources: sunlight, fortified foods, mushrooms

Modern indoor lifestyles, pollution , and geographical location have pushed vitamin D deficiency to historically high levels. It plays a key role in immunity and bone health.

Vitamin E – The Antioxidant Defender

Daily need: 15 mg

Sources: nuts, seeds, spinach

It protects cells from oxidative damage, which is linked to ageing and chronic disease.

Vitamin K – The Clotting and Bone Health Helper

Daily need: 100 mcg

Sources: leafy greens, broccoli

Vitamin K ensures proper blood clotting and works with vitamin D to strengthen bones.

The visual, which differs from census data from 1841 with figures from 2020, highlights what historians and economists describe as one of Europe’s most significant population transformations, rooted in famine, migration and the long-term pull of urban growth.

The above map serves as a reminder of the devastation caused by the Great Famine, which reduced the population by millions through death and mass emigration.

In 1841, population density was highest in rural, agriculturally dependent counties. County Cork alone recorded 855,000 residents, while Galway, Mayo, Tipperary and Donegal each exceeded 300,000.

These figures highlight how densely settled rural Ireland was before the Great Famine, a period that, according to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), resulted in more than 1 million deaths and another 1 million emigrants, beginning a population collapse from which many counties have never recovered.

By 2020, the distribution looks almost reversed. Dublin emerged as the dominant centre, with more than 1.35 million people in its greater metropolitan area, nearly triple its 1841 population and far surpassing that of any other county.

Meanwhile, rural counties that once formed the core of Ireland’s population have dramatically smaller numbers: Mayo, for example, which held over 388,000 people in 1841, recorded around 130,000 in 2020. County Cork’s population, though still high, stands around 540,000, significantly lower than its pre-famine peak.

Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago , stretches between Asia and Oceania, with the easternmost islands of Papua forming its easternmost reach. According to the CIA World Factbook, Indonesia encompasses over 17,000 islands, making its transcontinental footprint both vast and culturally diverse.

Russia remains the most iconic transcontinental nation, divided between Europe and Asia by the Ural Mountains. Roughly 77% of Russia’s landmass lies in Asia, but 75% of its population resides in the European portion, a contrast that has historically shaped its foreign policy and identity. Russia uses its European–Asian reach to justify political involvement across two major regions, shaping both European security and Asian energy strategies.

Egypt, long celebrated as the cradle of ancient civilisation, bridges Africa and Asia through the Sinai Peninsula. This region, in global headlines due to Red Sea tensions and shifting trade routes, underscores Egypt’s strategic role. Egypt’s Suez Canal handles about 12% of global trade. Current Houthi attacks in the Red Sea show how dependent the world still is on Egypt’s geography.

Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country, spans both Europe and Asia with a small but symbolically important portion west of the Ural River. Since the launch of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Kazakhstan has become a pivotal transit hub for Eurasian trade. Kazakhstan also profits from rail and pipeline routes linking Europe and Asia.

Panama, linking North and South America, owes its global prominence to the Panama Canal , which now faces pressure from drought-induced restrictions on international shipping. Its transcontinental nature enhances its geopolitical value as both a physical and economic connector.

And Turkey, positioned between Europe and Asia, remains a central player in current diplomatic efforts involving Ukraine, NATO expansion, and Middle Eastern stability. The Bosporus Strait, one of the most critical shipping lanes, literally divides the country into two continents.

Officials in Delhi have been accused of spraying water directly around air-quality monitoring stations to suppress pollution readings and even switching off equipment during peak pollution hours. This includes the Diwali festival in October, when firecracker smoke pushes air readings to hazardous levels. 

India’s Air Quality Index (AQI) labels readings between 400 and 500 as “severe,” the worst category, while “good” air falls between 0 and 50. Environmental groups argue that lowering reported levels encourages complacency and hides policy failures. 

Reports from Singaporean paper Straits Times said they witnessed a sprinkler truck repeatedly circling a monitoring station on a college campus in Jahangirpuri on November 21, directing jets of water around and towards the equipment. 

Staff operating the vehicle said they had worked at the site for more than a month, spraying nearly 28,000 litres of water daily. Analysts say this can wash particles from the air, increase humidity and cause pollutants to fall faster, thereby lowering recorded readings.

On Diwali night, The Times of India reported that over half of the city’s monitoring stations were switched off as pollution surged, with only 12 of 39 stations operating by 3 a.m. Much of the missing data—163 monitoring hours in total—covered the most polluted period and was reinstated only after levels dropped later in the morning.

Delhi officials deny data manipulation, calling the accusations politically motivated, but the issue has reached India’s Supreme Court. 

On November 17, judges ordered the city government to submit an affidavit explaining the performance of its monitoring system. The government has since claimed that the first half of November was the cleanest in three years, reporting an average AQI of 348.

Public anger is growing, with at least three protests held this month. 

At one demonstration, a hand-held device measured an AQI of 377—worse than official figures—and protesters demanded truthful data to guide public health decisions.

The protest highlighted growing concern among environmental groups and civil society organisations, who argue the changes significantly weaken safeguards designed to protect forests, rivers and Indigenous territories. One demonstrator captured the sentiment of the rally, saying to Viory: “We are here today in the hot sun, always remembering that we are in a climate crisis and we cannot let vetoes as important as Lula's be overturned. We cannot let bills like this pass. We cannot let laws that make environmental law more flexible.”

At the heart of the dispute is Congress’s decision on Thursday to cancel 52 vetoes that Lula had applied to the 2025 Environmental Licensing Law . The vetoes were intended to maintain strict requirements obliging companies to prove that proposed projects would not cause environmental harm before receiving authorisation. Environmental advocates warn that removing these provisions amounts to a sweeping rollback of protections and reduces mandatory consultations with Indigenous and Afro-Brazilian communities.

Supporters of the new law, however, argue that it streamlines bureaucracy, accelerates infrastructure and development projects, and strengthens Brazil’s competitiveness. They insist the updated framework maintains a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility, a claim strongly rejected by protesters, who say the decision represents a profound step backwards for climate and environmental governance in Brazil.

PM2.5 is particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, particularly dangerous as it can penetrate deep into a person’s lungs and enter their bloodstreams, bringing severe health risks.

The critics say four towers scattered across the city will barely touch the scale of the problem, and point out that pollution in the air doesn’t stay neatly around these intersections, it spreads city-wide.

Some ask: “Why not just plant more trees?” They’re low maintenance, don’t need electricity and can soak up CO2. However, whilst small particles can get trapped by their leaves, trees are far less effective at removing PM2.5 and PM10 particles from the air than these air purifiers.

Nonetheless, Jaipur's air pollution is continuing to worsen. This November, the Air Quality Index there was above 200, deemed a "severe" health risk, for 5 consecutive days. Across India, researchers say 1.7 million people die each year from diseases related to high PM2.5 levels. Winter brings the worst conditions , as less wind and cooler temperatures keep pollutants close to the ground.

Whilst new technologies may help at the margins, experts say India will ultimately need to address the root causes of its air pollution- like vehicle emissions, stubble burning, industrial output and thermal power plants.

These filters are one of several measures introduced by the Indian government to combat worsening air quality, says Devendra Goyal from NGO Enviro Concept, "the government is going to minimise the [use of] fossil fuels like coal and diesel, and start the work on solar green energy."

Still, analysts remain doubtful that India can cut pollution quickly enough to avoid escalating public frustration.

Beyond technical regulations, the reversal has significant social implications. Indigenous, quilombola and traditional communities lose important layers of protection and consultation in areas where projects may affect their lands — many of which remain without formal titles. Critics warn this could expose vulnerable groups to greater pressure from large-scale developments.

Internationally, the decision comes just days after Brazil hosted COP30 in the Amazon, where the government sought to project leadership on climate and forest conservation. The congressional move complicates that message, suggesting internal divisions over environmental policy at a moment when global attention remains focused on the Amazon’s future.

The latest breakdown, illustrated by The World in Maps, shows forested land ranging from less than 5% in some states to nearly 90% in others, casting light on the country’s environmental strengths, vulnerabilities, and responsibilities.

According to data from the U.S. Forest Service, states in the Southeast and Northeast top the charts. Maine leads the country with approximately 89% forest coverage, followed closely by New Hampshire at 79% and West Virginia at 79%. These densely forested states act as vital carbon sinks, absorbing millions of tons of CO₂ every year.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Great Plains states such as North Dakota (2%), South Dakota (3%), and Nebraska (3%) have the lowest forest coverage in the nation. These areas are dominated by vast grasslands and agricultural regions, which play important ecological roles of their own, but absorb far less carbon than forest-heavy regions.

The Western U.S. presents a mixed picture. California has 33% forest coverage, though the state continues to battle massive wildfire seasons that have reduced forest density and threatened biodiversity.

Oregon (49%) and Washington (53%) remain among the most forested states, but both have experienced increasingly destructive fires driven by extreme heat and prolonged drought. The National Interagency Fire Centre reports that wildfire seasons are lasting longer and burning more acreage than ever before.

These patterns come into sharper focus amid urgent global discussions about climate resilience. Just this year, the United Nations called for accelerated reforestation efforts worldwide in response to rising temperatures and more frequent natural disasters.

The UN Environment Programme warns that deforestation worldwide accounts for nearly 11% of carbon emissions, making forest preservation and restoration an essential part of the climate fight.

In the U.S., forests contribute far more than scenic beauty. They support wildlife habitats, provide clean air, protect watersheds, and fuel rural economies. States with higher forest coverage, such as Georgia (67%) and Alabama (71%), rely heavily on sustainable timber industries. Meanwhile, states with lower coverage are exploring prairie conservation and agricultural sustainability to balance environmental needs.

Recent protests in France, rising cost-of-living pressures, and renewed security concerns across the UK have influenced how residents perceive their neighbourhoods after dark. At the same time, ongoing instability from the Russia–Ukraine war continues to reshape how Eastern Europeans think about safety in their own communities.

The map’s findings closely mirror Gallup's 2025 Global Safety Report , which remains the leading global benchmark for how safe people feel in their daily lives.

According to Gallup, countries like Norway (91%), Denmark (89%) and Kosovo (89%) rank among Europe's safest.

On the contrary, Ukraine and Italy have lower perceived safety levels. This also mirrors Gallup’s data, which shows a noticeable decline in residents’ confidence in local security and law enforcement.

Central and Eastern Europe present a more mixed picture. Countries such as Poland, Czechia, and Slovakia fall into the “moderately safe” range, while parts of the Balkans appear safer than many Western European countries.

Notably, the map above depicting Ukraine and Russia reflects the grim reality of the ongoing conflict. Security perceptions in Ukraine have dramatically shifted since the 2022 invasion , and Gallup data confirms a significant decline in residents’ confidence in local security forces.

Russia, though coloured yellow or red in many public safety maps, remains a complicated case due to the restricted flow of independent data and state influence on survey respondents.

Attached is a discussion with Gallup's Global Research Director, Dan Foy, about the safety report.

According to Slashgear , generating just one AI image consumes about 0.011 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. That might sound small, but it’s roughly the same amount of energy your refrigerator uses in four minutes.

To put it in perspective, a standard fridge running continuously for a full day consumes about 4 kWh, according to EnergySage .

That means every AI-generated picture carries a tangible, if tiny, environmental footprint, one that multiplies quickly when millions of images are created daily across platforms.

While a fridge hums quietly in the background, the servers powering AI models run at massive data centres, drawing electricity from grids that often rely on fossil fuels.

Slashgear notes that a single AI image may require dozens of processing steps from high-performance GPUs, each contributing to that energy cost.

Multiply this by the growing number of users experimenting with tools like Midjourney, DALL·E, or Stable Diffusion, and the numbers add up quickly.

Globally, the conversation around AI’s energy footprint is intensifying. The UN Environment Programme recently highlighted that as AI adoption accelerates, so does its electricity demand, raising concerns about sustainability and carbon emissions.

With major tech companies investing billions into generative AI, the race isn’t just about smarter models anymore; it’s also about greener ones.

“We are here at the port of Santarem, at this exact moment, about to depart for Belem, to COP30. We are participating in a caravan with the peoples of the territory. The importance of this is surreal, because people are joining forces, connecting with others who already live the reality of the territories,” said Silvia Rocha, a Brazilian activist.

During the voyage, participants discussed strategies to present their local struggles and environmental challenges to world leaders. They see their participation as an opportunity to push for genuine representation and stronger climate financing commitments.

The caravan’s arrival in Belém marks a symbolic moment for civil society . With COP30 expected to bring together 60,000 participants from more than 160 countries between November 10 and 21, the Amazon’s residents are determined to make their voices central to the global climate conversation.

Malaita Province has unveiled an ambitious roadmap titled Malaita 2026–2030: The Path to Autonomy & Prosperity , signalling a renewed push for greater self-governance and economic independence. The initiative aims to tackle decades of underdevelopment and government neglect, positioning the province to control more of its resources and decision-making processes. The plan emphasises sustainable economic growth, better infrastructure, and local empowerment, marking a pivotal moment in the Solomon Islands’ ongoing discussions on decentralisation and regional equity.

Youth apprenticeship programme launched to tackle anti-social behaviour

A new youth apprenticeship programme has been launched in Malaita Province as part of efforts to address rising anti-social behaviour and unemployment among young people. Transparency Solomon Islands, a key advocacy group, used the occasion to highlight broader concerns about corruption and the misuse of funds. The organisation urged political leaders to focus on integrity, equitable resource allocation, and transparency to ensure that young people benefit directly from development programs rather than being left behind. The initiative is expected to serve as both a skills-building platform and a tool for social cohesion. News Briefs 23.10

Solomon Islands wins bid to host 2026 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting

In a significant boost to its international profile, the Solomon Islands has secured the right to host the 2026 Council of Tourism Ministers’ Meeting. The event is expected to draw delegates from across the Pacific, providing a valuable opportunity to showcase the nation’s natural beauty and tourism potential. Officials expect the meeting to generate economic activity, particularly for the hospitality and transport sectors, while also fostering discussions around aviation and regional connectivity challenges that have long constrained the tourism industry. News Briefs 23.10

Government developing policy for mining environmental bonds

The Solomon Islands Ministry of Mines has announced work on a new policy requiring mining companies to pay environmental bonds. The move addresses existing gaps in the nation’s mining regulations, which currently lack enforceable provisions for environmental accountability. The proposed bond system aims to ensure companies take financial responsibility for ecological restoration after project completion, aligning with global best practices in sustainable resource management. Authorities hope the policy will promote responsible mining and strengthen environmental protection standards across the country.

New Zealand ranks third with 133,100 tonnes, while Turkey, Morocco, Iran, Sudan, South Africa, Russia, and India complete the top ten list. These countries play crucial roles in regional textile industries and global wool supply chains, as reported by IWTO Market .

Global wool production has remained relatively stable in recent years, with gradual improvements in processing efficiency. Clean wool, the fibre after removing grease and impurities, continues to be in high demand, especially as sustainable textiles gain traction.

A recent IWTO report highlights that demand for natural fibres like wool is rebounding as fashion and home textile brands pivot toward eco-friendly materials.

According to Textile Trade Buddy , the global wool market could reach US $21.6 billion by 2032, driven by sustainability-focused consumers and brands. Yet synthetics still dominate the textile world due to cost efficiency and large-scale production, notes a CIRFS industry report .

Australia’s dominance is anchored in its Merino wool, prized globally for its softness, strength, and yield. The country’s well-developed farming systems and favourable climate help maintain its leading position. As IWTO notes, Australia sets global benchmarks in quality and auction pricing.

China, on the other hand, combines large-scale wool production with a powerful textile manufacturing infrastructure. It not only produces raw wool but also processes and exports high volumes of wool garments and fabrics worldwide.

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s strong export-driven farming industry keeps it a consistent third-place producer, known for crossbred wool varieties suited for carpets and upholstery.

The wool industry faces increasing scrutiny over environmental impact, particularly methane emissions from sheep farming. A Wall Street Journal report recently highlighted methane as a “blind spot” in the fashion industry’s climate strategy, placing added pressure on animal-based fibre sectors.

In response, wool producers are adopting more sustainable farming practices and certifications that ensure better animal welfare and lower emissions. IWTO reports that regenerative agriculture and non-mulesed wool certifications are on the rise globally.

However, the industry still battles challenges like droughts in key producing regions, rising feed and transport costs, and market fluctuations that affect pricing, issues regularly tracked by Fibre2Fashion .

Innovation remains a strong focus as researchers explore alternative fibres and production methods. In India, for example, scientists are developing milkweed-based fibres that could serve as lighter, warmer alternatives to traditional wool, according to The Times of India .

Despite these innovations, wool remains irreplaceable for many industries due to its natural durability, biodegradability, and ability to store carbon.

According to the report, Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and India were the world ’s most polluted countries in 2024, with air quality levels many times higher than the guidelines set by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Chad recorded the worst air quality globally, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 91.8 µg/m³, over 18 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Bangladesh followed with 78 µg/m³, Pakistan with 73.7 µg/m³, the Democratic Republic of Congo with 58.2 µg/m³, and India with 50.6 µg/m³.

The 2024 IQAir report is based on data from more than 40,000 air quality monitoring stations across 8,954 locations in 138 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive assessments of global air pollution to date. Alarmingly, the report found that 126 countries exceeded the WHO’s safe air quality limits, and only 17% of global cities met the recommended PM2.5 guideline.

South Asia remains the world’s most polluted region. Despite some progress, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan continue to struggle with dense smog and industrial emissions. In India, air quality improved slightly, about a 7% reduction in PM2.5 levels compared to 2023, yet the country still ranked fifth overall.

The world’s most polluted city in 2024 was Byrnihat, India, with an annual average PM2.5 concentration of 128.2 µg/m³.

A major factor behind these high readings is the continued reliance on fossil fuels, combined with vehicle emissions, industrial output, and seasonal crop burning. In regions such as India and Pakistan, weather conditions, including low wind speeds and temperature inversions, trap pollutants close to the ground, turning cities into toxic basins.

Meanwhile, many African nations face growing challenges as rapid urbanisation collides with limited environmental monitoring. IQAir notes that in Africa, there is, on average, just one air quality monitor for every 3.7 million people.

The dangers of these trends became especially clear during the 2024 India–Pakistan smog crisis, when thick haze engulfed large parts of the two countries. In November 2024, some areas recorded PM2.5 levels as high as 947 µg/m³, forcing school closures and overwhelming hospitals with respiratory cases.

Mongolia’s Prime Minister Gombojavyn Zandanshatar has issued a strong appeal to government officials, urging them to concentrate on their core duties and work toward preventing the nation’s growing weather-related hardships. The warning comes as the country faces another harsh seasonal cycle, with the potential of a dzud , the deadly winter phenomenon that kills livestock and devastates rural livelihoods, looming large. The Prime Minister emphasised that energy and resources should be directed toward supporting communities at risk, rather than getting caught up in political disputes.

Mayor Nyambaatar calls on enterprises to comply with Mongolia’s water law

In Ulaanbaatar, Mayor Nyambaatar has called on public and private enterprises to fulfil their obligations under the Law on Water of Mongolia, warning that non-compliance will no longer be tolerated. His statement highlights growing environmental concerns over unsustainable water use, especially as urban expansion continues to strain resources. The mayor pointed out that many industries, particularly in construction and manufacturing, have failed to implement water conservation and recycling systems. This negligence, he noted, directly affects the city’s ability to maintain clean and accessible water for residents. Nyambaatar’s administration plans to conduct audits and impose penalties on enterprises that ignore their environmental responsibilities.

Judicial council elects new judges in third session

Mongolia’s Judicial General Council held its third session, during which several new judges were elected, a move aimed at strengthening the independence and efficiency of the nation’s legal system. The appointments are part of an ongoing effort to modernise the judiciary and restore public trust following concerns over corruption and political interference in the courts. The new judges are expected to bring renewed focus on transparency and procedural fairness. Legal experts have welcomed the move, noting that fresh appointments can help balance workloads and enhance case management, particularly in regional courts.

President Khurelsukh to pay a state visit to India

In a significant diplomatic step, President U. Khurelsukh is set to embark on a state visit to the Republic of India, further strengthening bilateral relations between the two Asian democracies. The visit aims to deepen cooperation in trade, renewable energy, mining, and regional security. Mongolia and India have long shared strong cultural and historical ties, rooted in Buddhism and mutual respect. Recent years have seen growing collaboration under the “Strategic Partnership” framework, with India supporting Mongolia in key areas such as digital infrastructure, energy transition, and education.

The award celebrates the excellence of Cuba’s National Biodiversity Programme through 2030, developed under the supervision of Cuba’s Ministry of Science , Technology and Environment (CITMA). Its strategy emphasises science-based measures, citizen participation, and concrete conservation actions.

Cuba was among 26 countries selected worldwide for their outstanding commitment to biodiversity. These nations were honoured for their national biodiversity strategies (EPANB), which align with global goals under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.

In Cuba’s case, the EPANB is integrated with the country’s broader environmental and climate policy framework — including the Tarea Vida (Life Task) programme and Cuba’s National Development Plan to 2030 — reflecting a systemic approach to conservation and sustainability.

The awarding body, the International Reverse the Red Coalition, is led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and partners. It honours countries that craft and implement biodiversity action plans with scientific rigour, transparency, stakeholder inclusion and alignment with global standards.

Not only is Thailand’s approach unconventional, but it is also unproven.

"The data suggests that at the level of our area of focus, the dust cleared up," said programme head Chanti Detyothin. He, however, admitted that the program did not "make the pollution go away entirely,” adding that “even with this new technology, there are limitations.”

"We have been working every day for Bangkok to have clean air,” he said. “We are doing our best as much as we can.”

Pollution has cost Thailand more than $139 million in medical expenses. Worldwide, it kills an estimated 7 million people annually, making it the “biggest environmental health risk of our time,” according to the United Nations.

Pollution level in Thailand is at 102 micrograms per cubic metre, quadruple the limit set by the World Health Organisation . As a result, the country is turning to cloud seeding — spraying white mist across the sky to induce rain — in the hopes of washing away particles trapped in the atmosphere. 

Not only is Thailand’s approach unconventional, but it is also unproven. 

"The data suggests that at the level of our area of focus, the dust cleared up," said programme head Chanti Detyothin. He, however, admitted that the program did not "make the pollution go away entirely,” adding that “even with this new technology , there are limitations.”

"We have been working every day for Bangkok to have clean air,” he said. “We are doing our best as much as we can.”

Pollution has cost Thailand more than $139 million in medical expenses. Worldwide, it kills an estimated 7 million people annually, making it the “biggest environmental health risk of our time,” according to the United Nations .

President Bernardo Arévalo has begun implementing Guatemala’s Departmental Governments mechanism as part of his A Tu Tierra working tour, with the latest stop in Petén. The initiative aims to decentralise governance by empowering governors to coordinate executive offices and municipal governments, creating localised networks to deliver services more effectively. Arévalo said the model will prioritise territorial needs through strategic agendas focused on social and productive development. The programme seeks to extend state presence beyond central departments and strengthen collaboration between national institutions and local authorities. By 2025, the government plans to establish departmental governments in seven regions, including Chiquimula, San Marcos, Retalhuleu and Alta Verapaz, in a bid to bring decision-making closer to remote communities.

Guatemala Congress advances bill to classify gangs as terrorists

Guatemala’s Congress has advanced Bill 5692, which would declare gang members terrorists , moving it to a second reading with final approval expected in a future session. The initiative proposes reforms to the Penal Code and the Law Against Organized Crime to treat all crimes committed by maras as high-risk offences. It would double penalties for gang-related crimes and impose three to 10 years in prison for threats made by gang members. Lawmakers say the reforms aim to strengthen the state’s ability to combat organised crime by mandating resources for enforcement. 

Arévalo accuses Congress of blocking executive’s work

President Bernardo Arévalo has criticised Guatemala’s Congress for what he called an unprecedented campaign of obstruction against his government. He said lawmakers have abused their oversight role, citing more than 260 citations this year directed at the Ministry of Communications alone, with 11 of 14 ministers facing interpellation requests. Arévalo argued that such pressure amounts to harassment rather than accountability, warning it prevents ministries from functioning. He also condemned attempts by legislators to intimidate officials, including an incident involving Communications Minister Miguel Ángel Díaz. Political analyst Renzo Rosal backed Arévalo’s concerns, saying congressional tactics have undermined the separation of powers and created the appearance of Congress overriding the Executive.

Guatemala moves toward maximum-security prison for gangs

Guatemala’s Congress is advancing plans to build a maximum-security prison for gang members as part of a wider security reform. Lawmakers are revisiting Initiative 5692, first introduced in 2020, which sought to label gangs as terrorist groups. A technical committee met this week to draft a proposal that could amend at least ten laws covering security and justice within six weeks. The plan will combine repression with prevention, focusing on child recruitment and victim protection. Proposals include tougher penalties for extortion, money laundering and criminal association, alongside greater powers for prosecutors and police. Officials argue isolating gang leaders is key, as more than 7,000 extortion cases are reported annually.

Arévalo backs Petén communities in forest protection pacts

President Bernardo Arévalo, on his A Tu Tierra tour in Petén, oversaw the signing of cooperation agreements between the National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP) and four local settlements to safeguard the Great Mayan Forest. The communities of Corral Pek, San Agustín and El Pato in Poptún, along with Nacimiento Nuevo Paraíso La Rejoya in Melchor de Mencos, committed to sustainable development practices that balance livelihoods with conservation. Arévalo highlighted the long-standing role of communities as stewards of natural resources, noting the forest “repays” with water, oxygen and opportunities for agriculture and tourism. He stressed that ensuring harmony between people and environment requires coordination across state institutions and local actors alike.