Ian Smith

Ecotech

What is water cremation? ‘Eco-friendly’ burials begin in Britain

The UK’s biggest funeral care provider is now offering water cremation. But what exactly is it and what is its impact on the environment?

16 February 2024

Travel News

Why thieves are to blame for thousands of Europe’s train delays

Europe's biggest rail operators are reporting problems with copper theft on their lines and with the price of the metal set to rise many are concerned.

11 February 2024

Moments

Here’s what I’ve learnt while solo travelling over the last 6 years

The new year is full of grand travel plans and solemn vows to take that trip you’ve been putting on the long finger for years. For many that means a first time solo travel adventure.

1 January 2024

Earth News

Sweden is our Green Country of the Month - here’s why

From salt batteries to ‘flying’ ferries, here’s why Sweden is our Green Country of the Month.

30 November 2023

Earth News

Dutch environmental groups 'shocked' by far-right election win

The far-right party PVV's election victory has raised fears over how it could impact the country’s climate ambitions.

24 November 2023

Earth News

Why is this English city banning gas stoves in new homes?

The city’s ambitious proposals will require no fossil fuels to be used in new housing or commercial developments, including for heating and cooking.

23 November 2023

Earth News

Why are authorities warning against eating homegrown eggs in Paris?

Scientists say that hens foraging on polluted soil is the root cause of the problem.

21 November 2023

Destinations

Where are France’s most and least friendly cities?

France is a country beloved by millions, but its people have a reputation for perhaps not being the most friendly bunch. A new survey has asked the French what they think of this stereotype and where they think you should visit (and avoid) if you want a warm welcome.

21 November 2023

Earth News

Richest 10% of Europeans cause as much pollution as poorest 50%

A damning new report from Oxfam calls for a European wealth tax as the contribution of the EU’s richest to the climate crisis is laid bare.

20 November 2023

Nature

Which countries in Europe have the most and least forests?

Forests have been growing in size in the EU over recent decades, but why are there such large discrepancies across the continent?

4 November 2023

Earth News

Why did a nun rugby tackle an environmental activist in France?

A long running dispute between a religious order and ecologists in France turned physical this week as local police call for calm.

19 October 2023

Earth News

Outrage as man kills critically endangered bear in Italy

The popular bear had been spotted earlier this week in the region taking a stroll with her two cubs.

1 September 2023

Climate

Why are flights cheaper than trains in Europe?

Train travel is often more expensive than flying. Could taxing aviation to invest in the rail industry help change that?

10 August 2023

Earth News

Which European countries have the easiest access to green spaces?

Living near green spaces has an array of health benefits, but access is unequal across Europe. How can we make the continent greener?

4 August 2023

Climate

What is the hottest temperature ever recorded in Europe?

As Europe faces a second heatwave, we look at the highest temperatures ever recorded across the continent.

18 July 2023

Earth News

Just Stop Oil protesters storm Wimbledon court and throw confetti

Two protesters in their 60s stormed a Wimbledon court to demand the UK government halts all new licences and consents for oil, gas and coal.

5 July 2023

Earth News

Norway proposes opening its waters to deep sea mining

Norway’s government signalled its intention to open up the country’s waters to deep sea mining, but environmental groups have slammed the move.

21 June 2023

Earth News

Ireland’s data centres are using as much electricity as all city homes

New official figures show data centres’ electricity usage in Ireland is surging at a time where the country is failing to meet its climate targets.

13 June 2023

Moments

I travelled around Europe by train and it was cheaper than flying

I travelled through three countries in 10 days by train and bus to take in the beauty of the Italian mountains and the excitement of street parties in Berlin. Here’s how.

4 June 2023

Destinations

Verbier opens early as snow hits the Alps. Here’s why you should visit

Skiing in Europe is back with a bang this winter and a few weeks ahead of schedule. A bumper November snowfall has seen the early return of some of the continent's best ski resorts, including Verbier. Here’s our guide to the famous Swiss ski haven.

8 April 2023