UK

Researchers at the University of Portsmouth in the UK have developed a sprayable enzyme solution capable of breaking down common plastics like PET in hours instead of decades. The product, currently in trial stages, could revolutionize global recycling practices. The enzyme spray, derived from bacteria found in compost heaps, dissolves plastic at the molecular level. Initial lab tests show it can reduce a plastic bottle to non-toxic components within 48 hours. This innovation arrives at a critical time when global plastic waste is projected to reach 1.2 billion tonnes by 2050. Environmental groups are calling the enzyme a “game-changer” for…

In response to growing mental health concerns among teenagers, the UK’s Department for Education has announced that all public schools will introduce mandatory weekly “mental health check-ins” starting this September. Under the new plan, students aged 11–18 will engage in guided sessions once a week with certified counselors or trained teachers. Topics will include emotional literacy, coping mechanisms, mindfulness, and identifying early signs of depression or stress. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said the program aims to reduce the rising number of youth suicides and hospitalizations due to anxiety and depression. Recent NHS data shows that one in six UK teenagers…

In a significant step toward future-proofing education, the UK has introduced an AI-based curriculum for primary schools starting this academic year. Students from age 8 will learn the basics of algorithms, coding ethics, and real-world applications of artificial intelligence. The curriculum, backed by Oxford and Cambridge tech faculties, includes virtual AI assistants for classrooms and interactive gamified modules. The government hopes this early exposure will close the skill gap in the tech sector. South Asian countries like India and Bangladesh are taking note, with education boards considering similar modules. EdTech firms in Nepal and Bhutan have expressed interest in collaborating…

The UK government has unveiled a bold plan to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2035. The strategy focuses on expanding offshore wind farms, investing in nuclear energy, and boosting solar power capacity. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that the transition to green energy would create thousands of jobs while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. “This is about energy security, lower bills, and a cleaner future,” he said. The plan also includes a £10 billion investment in battery storage technology to ensure a stable power supply. While environmentalists have welcomed the move, some critics argue that the…

The UK government has introduced a nationwide initiative to tackle food waste, aiming to reduce it by 50% by 2030. Supermarkets, food manufacturers, and restaurants are collaborating to minimize waste at every stage of the supply chain. The program encourages businesses to donate surplus food to charities, recycle inedible waste, and adopt innovative packaging solutions. Additionally, consumers are being educated on how to store food properly to extend shelf life. Environment Secretary Claire Green highlighted the environmental benefits of reducing food waste, including the reduction of methane emissions from landfills. The initiative aligns with the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero…

Alton Towers' roller coaster, Nemesis Reborn, has been voted the best theme park ride in the world by UK enthusiasts, surpassing popular rides at Disney and Universal parks. The ride, which reopened in March 2024 after major refurbishments, topped a survey conducted by Ocean Florida, with Nemesis Reborn receiving 12% of the votes. Situated in Staffordshire, Alton Towers offers numerous attractions, including The Smiler, Oblivion, and the family-friendly CBeebies Land. The park plans to add a new junior ride by 2026. Despite the local win, Florida remains a central hub for theme parks, with the upcoming opening of Universal's Epic…