AI-supported mammography screening saves time & detects more cancer
A new study from Lund University in Sweden has found that using AI resulted in the detection of 20% more cancers compared with standard screening, without affecting false positives.
Europe
This archive covers progress stories and milestones from across Europe, spanning health, climate policy, social equity, and scientific research. From small-nation experiments to E.U.-wide initiatives, these reports highlight what is working and why.
Netherlands to return nearly 500 looted objects to Indonesia and Sri Lanka
“We’re not only returning objects; we’re also embarking on a period of closer cooperation with Indonesia and Sri Lanka in areas like collection research, presentation, and exchanges between museums,” said Dutch Secretary of State for Culture and Media Gunay Uslu.
Lab-grown diamonds booming in the U.K. as newlyweds opt for more sustainable option that is 85% cheaper
The London-based diamond retailer Queensmith revealed the market for lab-grown diamonds has increased by 2,860 percent in just five years as consumers look for more sustainable, ethical, and affordable options.
U.K. achieves huge gains in 5-year survival rates of early breast cancer
A new U.K. study has found that, compared to 20 years ago, women diagnosed today with early invasive breast cancer and initially treated with surgery are 66% less likely to die from the disease.
E.U. requires smartphones to have user-replaceable batteries by 2027
For “portable batteries” used in devices such as smartphones, tablets, and cameras, consumers must be able to “easily remove and replace them,” reducing costs for consumers and reducing e-waste.
Estonia’s parliament approves same-sex marriage
It’s the first central European country to do so. It is a rebuke to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has invoked the West’s “moral degeneracy” as one justification for his war against Ukraine.
Spain to get majority of electricity from renewable energy in 2023 for first time ever
Spain will become the first of Europe’s five highest energy-consuming countries to pass this symbolic 50% marker.
Iceland outlaws conversion therapy in unanimous vote
The Icelandic parliament has unanimously passed a comprehensive conversion therapy ban, prohibiting the practice on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.
Switzerland amends law to legally recognize that sex without consent is rape
The amendment follows similar rulings in Denmark and Spain, where the law was recently changed to define rape as sexual assault without explicit consent.
Latvia elects the first openly gay head of state in Europe
The country’s parliament has elected Edgars Rinkēvičs to be its next president. Rinkēvičs publicly came out as gay in November 2014.