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Study Reveals High Economic Risks of Cook Islands Seabed Mining

Study Reveals High Economic Risks of Cook Islands Seabed Mining

A new study commissioned by Greenpeace International highlights the economic risks associated with seabed polymetallic nodule extraction in the Cook Islands. The analysis suggests that the costs, market factors, and technological challenges make deep sea mining economically unviable. The study warns of potential environmental damage and questions the financial viability of mining operations, given the low market value of the nodules. The report comes as Global Sea Mineral Resources plans to divest its interests in the Cook Islands.
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Potential El Niño Event in 2026 Could Break Global Temperature Records

Potential El Niño Event in 2026 Could Break Global Temperature Records

A warm wind shift in the equatorial Pacific Ocean is raising concerns among scientists about a potential El Niño event in 2026. This shift, known as a westerly wind burst, could lead to significant changes in ocean temperatures and weather patterns globally. Typically, trade winds blow from east to west across the Pacific, but the current reversal could trigger a transition from La Niña to El Niño conditions. Such a shift would likely result in higher global temperatures, as El Niño events are associated with warmer ocean waters in the eastern and central Pacific. This development could lead to record-breaking global temperatures and altered weather patterns worldwide.
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Economic Risks Highlighted in Cook Islands Seabed Mining Study

Economic Risks Highlighted in Cook Islands Seabed Mining Study

A new independent study commissioned by Greenpeace International reveals that the economic potential of seabed polymetallic nodules in the Cook Islands has been overstated. The analysis indicates that deep sea mining for these nodules is likely to result in negative economic returns once costs, market factors, and technological challenges are considered. The study highlights that the technologies required for extraction have not been commercially demonstrated, and the estimated operating costs are on par with or higher than the expected market value. The report also notes that there are no existing facilities capable of processing the nodules into saleable metals, posing significant technical and financial risks.
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Cruise Ship Video Sparks Environmental Concerns and Online Debate

Cruise Ship Video Sparks Environmental Concerns and Online Debate

A video posted on Reddit has sparked intense debate about the environmental impact of cruise ships. The footage shows the Harmony of the Seas, a large cruise ship, causing significant water displacement near a beach, creating a small tsunami-like effect. This incident has raised concerns about the safety risks to beachgoers and the environmental impact on the shoreline. The video has led to discussions about the broader environmental issues associated with cruise ships, including air pollution, chemical dumping, and excessive waste generation. These concerns are part of a larger conversation about the sustainability of cruise tourism and its impact on natural resources.
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France Introduces Passenger Tax on Cruises to Fund Environmental Projects

France Introduces Passenger Tax on Cruises to Fund Environmental Projects

France is set to implement a new tax on cruise passengers as part of its 2026 draft budget. This measure, which has already been approved by the French Senate, will require travelers arriving by sea to pay approximately $27 per person for each port call in France. The initiative is designed to address the environmental impact of the growing cruise industry, which saw over 3.8 million passengers in 2023. The revenue from this tax, estimated to reach up to €750 million annually, will be allocated to environmental protection projects, particularly those aimed at preserving and restoring France's coastline. This move aligns with similar actions taken by other European countries like Greece and Norway, which have also introduced measures to manage the environmental and social impacts of cruise tourism.
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Radical Storage Identifies Las Vegas Among Dirtiest Tourist Cities, Raising Concerns Over Urban Cleanliness

Radical Storage Identifies Las Vegas Among Dirtiest Tourist Cities, Raising Concerns Over Urban Cleanliness

Radical Storage, a luggage storage company, conducted an analysis of over 71,000 Google reviews from late 2024 through November 2025, focusing on 100 major global travel destinations. The study aimed to identify cities frequently described with terms such as 'clean', 'dirty', 'trash', and 'filth'. The findings revealed that even renowned tourist spots struggle with cleanliness when faced with high visitor numbers, as municipal cleaning services often cannot keep pace. Among the cities identified as the dirtiest were Budapest, Rome, and notably, Las Vegas. This revelation highlights the challenges faced by popular tourist destinations in maintaining cleanliness amidst increasing tourist influx.
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Research Highlights Deep-Sea Mining's Potential Impact on Marine Ecosystems

Research Highlights Deep-Sea Mining's Potential Impact on Marine Ecosystems

Recent research has focused on the ecological implications of deep-sea mining, particularly its impact on marine organisms like brittle stars. The extraction of mineral deposits from the ocean floor is seen as a potential source for materials necessary for green technologies, such as electric cars and batteries. However, the practice is controversial due to the poorly understood ecological and climate implications. The research emphasizes the need for further investigation to understand the full extent of environmental changes and to inform future marine policies. This study is part of a broader effort to explore the feasibility and potential impacts of deep-sea mining, aiming to protect vulnerable ecosystems while supporting the green transition.
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Radical Storage Study Reveals Las Vegas Among Dirtiest Tourist Cities

Radical Storage Study Reveals Las Vegas Among Dirtiest Tourist Cities

A study conducted by Radical Storage analyzed over 71,000 Google reviews from late 2024 to November 2025, focusing on cleanliness-related terms. The study identified Las Vegas, along with Budapest and Rome, as among the dirtiest tourist cities. The research highlights the challenges faced by major tourist destinations in maintaining cleanliness amidst high visitor numbers. The findings suggest that even iconic locations struggle with waste management and cleanliness when overwhelmed by tourists.
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Asia-Pacific Symposium Focuses on Catalyzing Sustainability

Asia-Pacific Symposium Focuses on Catalyzing Sustainability

The Asia-Pacific Catalysis Conference (APCAT-10) and the International Symposium on Advanced Catalysis (ISSAC-4) recently convened to discuss advancements in sustainable chemical processes. Co-chaired by experts from Nanyang Technological University and the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, the symposium brought together leading researchers and industry professionals to explore innovative solutions for sustainability challenges. The event highlighted the role of catalysis in reducing environmental impact and improving energy efficiency in chemical manufacturing. Participants shared research findings and discussed collaborative efforts to drive sustainable practices in the Asia-Pacific region.
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Newport Beach Faces Emergency Drilling Due to Methane Leak from Abandoned Oil Well

Newport Beach Faces Emergency Drilling Due to Methane Leak from Abandoned Oil Well

In Newport Beach, an emergency drilling operation is underway following a methane leak from an abandoned oil well. The leak has prompted evacuations in the affected neighborhood as authorities work to address the situation. The drilling is expected to continue for several weeks as crews attempt to mitigate the leak and ensure the safety of the area. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the environmental and safety risks posed by abandoned oil wells, which can become sources of hazardous leaks if not properly managed.
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Minnesota's Iconic Destinations: Reality vs. Instagram Hype

Minnesota's Iconic Destinations: Reality vs. Instagram Hype

Minnesota's Iconic Destinations: Reality vs. Instagram Hype
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The holiday shopping season comes with tons of extra emissions. Here's how to do it sustainably

The holiday shopping season comes with tons of extra emissions. Here's how to do it sustainably

The holiday season comes with a lot of pollution from materials, manufacturing, processing, packaging, shipping and wrapping