Scotland becomes first country to require schools to teach LGBT curriculum
Scotland has become the first country in the world to require its public schools nationwide to add LGBT history and inclusion to their curriculums.
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.
U.K. Government announces new plastic tax
The U.K. Government has announced a world-leading new tax on plastic packaging in the autumn Budget.
European Parliament approves ban on single-use plastics
The European Parliament voted on Wednesday to enact a complete ban on some single-use plastics, such as drinking straws and disposable cutlery, across the European Union.
U.K. government announces plans to ban plastic straws, cotton-buds, and stirrers
The U.K. government has laid out plans to prohibit the distribution and sale of plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds.
Amazon signs deal for 100% renewable electricity in their U.K. buildings
The solar panels are expected to generate the equivalent amount of electricity required to power over 4,500 U.K. homes and will reduce the company’s carbon footprint by 6,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.
Scottish Power switches to 100% wind power
Scottish Power has become the first integrated energy company in the U.K. to make the shift from coal and gas generation to wind power.
The first Hyperloop passenger capsule is unveiled in Spain
A feasibility analysis by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) estimates that Hyperloop routes could be up to six times more energy efficient than air travel on short routes, and over three times faster than the world’s fastest high-speed rail system.
U.K. grocers pledge to halve food waste from ‘farm to fork’ by 2030
Eighty-nine early signatories, including the U.K.’s biggest supermarkets as well as food producers, manufacturers and restaurant chains, have committed to halving their food waste from “farm to fork” by 2030.
Germany launches world’s first hydrogen-powered train
Germany has rolled out the world’s first hydrogen-powered train, signalling the start of a push to challenge the might of polluting diesel trains with costlier but more eco-friendly technology.
In a world-first, Carlsberg to replace plastic ring can holders with recyclable glue
Danish brewer will be the first to ditch pack rings in a move it says will reduce plastic by up to 76%