Geological organization rules the Anthropocene is not a formal epoch
IUGS rejected declaring that we live in a new epoch defined by far-reaching human impacts on the planet since the 1950s.
Global Issues
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U.N. General Assembly adopts first resolution on artificial intelligence
The resolution, backed by the U.S. and China, reflect fears AI will severely disrupt business, infrastructure and governance.
Recycling rates falling behind the pace of e-waste generated globally
Just 22.3% of all the e-waste - any product that has a plug or battery - was properly collected and recycled in 2022.
Most nations failed to meet WHO fine particle pollution standards
Ambient fine particulate matter known as PM2.5 is considered the world’s leading environmental health risk factor.
Study finds 37% rise in illegal profits from forced labor over past decade
By far the largest share of the US$236 billion a year in illegal profits comes from forced commercial sexual exploitation.
U.N. weather agency has ‘red alert’ warning as Earth grows ever hotter
WMO reports 2023 smashed climate records at previously unimaginable levels, bringing 'misery and mayhem.'
Nations pushing for AI governance around issues of access and privacy
A top U.N. official cites strong concerns about mental privacy, which is 'a line that we should not cross at all' as AI develops.
Progress is 'slow and mixed' for women joining national parliaments
IPU's chief Martin Chungong says its statistics show that 'women bear the brunt of the hate in the political space.'
'Extinction' of U.N. climate agency by 2050 to serve as measure of success
Simon Stiell, who heads U.N. climate efforts, envisions winding down his agency into merely a 'data repository'.
IMF sees path to 'soft landing' for the global economy in its latest outlook
IMF forecasts a strengthening global economy as inflation cools, but warns of the threat of wars and other disruptions.
‘Doomsday Clock’ warns of nuclear threats, wars, climate crisis and AI
The symbolic clock will remain set at the closest point to the symbolic hour of apocalpyse it has ever been since 1947.
IOM launches first charity drive for 'unprecedented' migration needs
Conflict, climate, environmental degradation and uneven development are major factors in the $7.9B appeal.
WMO confirms 2023 breaks global heat record and nears limit
The World Meteorological Organization said the world hit the record books, up 1.45° C. from pre-industrial times.
Benchmark of global food prices eases from painful record highs
FAO's Food Price Index tracks five commodity groups. Experts say food distribution is a worry even if supplies are plentiful.
Rich economies bounce back as developing economies lose ground
Global economic growth is projected to slow to 2.4% this year, down from 2.7% in 2023 and 3% before the pandemic began.
Cash-strapped U.N. aid appeal falls to $46 billion for 181 million
The U.N.'s global humanitarian appeal for itself and 1,900 partners in 2024 already assumes 40% in unmet needs.