Subscribe now
Union jack umbrella against a cloudy blue sky

Exclusive: UK considering ambitious new climate plan soon after Brexit

15 January 2020

The UK government is considering a new, more ambitious blueprint to reduce its carbon emissions after the country leaves the European Union at the end of the month


Fracking well

UK government rings death knell for the fracking industry

4 November 2019

The sharp reversal of support ends nearly a decade of protests, court cases and minor earthquakes without any energy being produced


A girl on the underground system uses a fan to attempt to keep cool

Our buildings make this heatwave worse – here’s how to cool them down

26 July 2018

Many buildings in cool countries are poorly designed to cope with heat, and new homes and offices are even worse. Thousands will die if we don’t fix them


Artist's impression of the Swansea tidal power project, showing a walkway around the periphery

Why tidal power won't solve the world's renewable energy needs

13 June 2018

There are widespread calls for the UK government not to abandon a trailblazing tidal power project, but this energy source is no green panacea, says Hans van Haren


Smiling Theresa May at a podium that says

UK's plastic bag ban is a pitiful attempt at a greener future

11 January 2018

Talk of cutting plastic pollution has grabbed the headlines, but the UK’s long-awaited 25-year plan for the environment consists almost entirely of vague aspirations and vacuous promises


Michael Gove, U.K. environment secretary, arrives at Downing Street in London, U.K., on Monday, June 12, 2017

Science and climate face uncertain future in post-election UK

13 June 2017

Michael Gove's promotion and the need to rely on the DUP could make tackling global warming and listening to scientific advice low priorities for the UK’s new government


Nigel Dodds and Arlene Foster, DUP deputy leader and leader

Five things you need to know about DUP politicians and science

9 June 2017

Democratic Unionist Party politicians have voiced controversial views on climate change, HIV and creationism. Here’s what they’ve said on some key issues  


Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop