6 d. ago Losing its sparkle: Colombia’s emerald capital weighs the cost of its precious stones

As big companies and informal miners blame each other for the damage to rivers and forests, mining risks long-term harm to those living nearbyThe small town of Muzo, nestled deep in Colombia’s emerald-rich valleys of Boyacá province, is a place where the soil holds great wealth. Brick-red homes and tin-roof shacks cling to the mountainside, their bases resting on black sand and dark mud. Below, the Río Minero weaves through the valley, its waters tainted by the silt and debris of continuous excavation.The region’s natural beauty is marred by scattered waste and discarded mining materials, evidence of an industry that supports the town’s economy – but also harms its environment. Continue reading...

Politics

1 week ago 'Deep concern' over 'elephant in the room' financial situation facing Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership

Stark reality of economic environment was reiterated as elected members discussed strategic plan.

Politics

2 w. ago ‘Cañahua chose me’: can an ancient relative of quinoa revive rural Bolivia’s economy?

The effects of the climate crisis and a lack of jobs are driving young people away from the Andean highlands but a long-shunned crop could stem the tideFew young people remain in Bolivia’s highland plateau, the Altiplano. The rising frequency and severity of extreme weather events, such as drought and frost, have reduced their economic prospects and migration has accelerated as the environment becomes more unpredictable.“The climate isn’t like it used to be,” says Nico Mamani Lima, a farmer and agronomist from Ayo Ayo. Continue reading...

Politics

3 w. ago A train from the UK to Italy? We've heard that one before, but I'm on board | Jonn Elledge

It’s a lot easier to tease new cross-Channel rail services than it is to actually start running trains. I’m crossing my fingers anywayBetween environmental breakdown, economic crisis and Donald Trump, it often feels like there’s precious little reason to feel hopeful these days. So how’s this for a reason to cheer up: Italian state railway company, Trenitalia, is planning to run trains through the Channel tunnel before the decade is out. It’s studying the option of direct trains from the UK to Italy, too. Eagle-eyed readers may note that those are two separate propositions.Trenitalia is no stranger to the British rail network: it already operates the C2C franchise, which connects London Fenchurch Street via south Essex to Southend. Last week the company announced a €1bn (£860m) plan to launch a new high-speed service connecting London and Paris by 2029, as a direct competitor to the long-established Eurostar. In addition, it’s reported to be “studying the possibility” of extending t...

Politics

3 w. ago Trumpflation! Price of Sony PlayStation 5 consoles jumps 10% in the UK because of 'challenging economic environment' in wake of US tariffs

Sony said the 'tough decision' had been made because of 'a challenging economic environment, including high inflation and fluctuating exchange rates'.

Economics

3 w. ago Sony announces PlayStation 5 price to rise due to 'challenging economic environment'

It comes after the global stock market has taken a hit following new tariffs introduced by Donald Trump

Economics

3 w. ago Sony makes ‘tough decision’ to raise PS5 prices in Europe and UK

Japanese group cites ‘challenging economic environment’ as Trump’s tariffs throw supply chains into uncertainty

Politics

4 w. ago Rewire economy to see Scotland become richer and greener, report urges

Economic and environmental groups have said the Scottish Government should transform the country into a circular economy.

Politics