16:54
BP will reduce its workforce by over 5%, cutting 4700 jobs
BP announced on Thursday, January 16, that it will reduce its global workforce by over 5%
Forestry England is testing a nature restoration method in North Yorkshire
Reuters
In soils the right balance of fungi and bacteria is very important to maintain a healthy soil for both forests as well as agricultural lands. Due to intensive farming practices, we see that the fungal diversity and the population in soils have come down drastically.
In England, conservationists are pioneering an innovative ecosystem restoration project by transferring fungi-rich soil from ancient woodlands to newly created forests.
Led by Forestry England, the initiative involves transplanting soil cores containing up to 300 species of fungi from Hagg Wood to York Community Woodland, a new 78-hectare site. These fungi, particularly mycorrhizal fungi, form symbiotic relationships with trees, enhancing their growth, nutrient uptake, and resilience to disease and extreme weather. However, these crucial organisms are often absent in newly established woodlands due to soil degradation.
The experiment, to be monitored over the next decade, aims to demonstrate how fungi translocation can restore soil health and biodiversity. If successful, it could serve as a global model for combating soil degradation, a growing crisis highlighted by the UN's World Soil Day.
A recent UN-backed study warns that land degradation is threatening Earth's ability to sustain humanity, with over 15 million square kilometers already affected and the problem worsening each year. Soil erosion alone could lead to a 10% drop in global crop production by 2050, exacerbating risks of malnutrition and famine amid a rising global population.
Experts like environmental campaigner Anand Ethirajalu stress that restoring the balance of fungi and bacteria in soils is vital not only for forests but also for agriculture and human health.
The project underscores the urgent need to value and restore soil ecosystems as a cornerstone of climate resilience, biodiversity, and food security.
16:06
British Prime Minister arrived in Ukraine to sign a new agreement
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ukraine to sign a new security and trade agreement with Kyiv.
10:02
UK minister resigns amid corruption allegations
Britain’s Minister for Financial Services, Tulip Siddiq, has resigned amid growing scrutiny over her financial ties to her aunt, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and allegations of corruption. The resignation marks a setback for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government.
19:35
Middle East
British PM calls for Middle East peace this Christmas
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed hope for Middle East peace and a brighter future, calling Christmas a time to focus on family, friendship, and unity.
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