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Climate
McLachlan challenges Coalition climate rollback as break with conservative values
Original report:
Writing in the Guardian, Andrew McLachlan argues that the Australian Coalition’s proposed dismantling of climate targets, incentives and oversight contradicts conservative traditions. He calls for reforming existing institutions rather than abolishing them, while noting that many changes would require Senate support.
Climate
UK aid cuts hit Commonwealth countries and nature funding
Original report:
UK bilateral aid to Commonwealth countries with existing programmes is projected to fall sharply by 2028-29, according to analysis reported by the Guardian. Nature protection funding also faces restrictions, drawing criticism from charities as Commonwealth leaders meet in Antigua.
Climate
Penguin guano fuels algae that accelerate Antarctic snowmelt, study finds
Original report:
Researchers studying snow along the West Antarctic peninsula found that penguin droppings nourish green algal blooms, which absorb more solar energy than red algae. The process is not yet included in Antarctic melting projections, according to the report.
Climate
UK energy bill would expand Ofgem powers over brokers and executive bonuses
Original report:
Energy brokers and comparison services would come under Ofgem oversight through a planned UK bill targeting mis-selling and hidden commissions. The regulator would also gain powers to restrict executive payouts, alongside measures addressing rental energy efficiency and fracking.
Climate
UN warns adaptation funding for poorer nations remains far below needs
Original report:
Financial support for climate adaptation in developing countries has barely grown, despite mounting needs, a UN report says. The poorest nations received less funding in 2024 than in 2022, while wealthy countries remain behind their promised pace of support.
Climate
Australians grow more pessimistic despite steady social cohesion, survey finds
Original report:
Economic pressures dominate Australians’ concerns in the 2026 Scanlon report, with pessimism about the country’s future rising. The social cohesion index remains unchanged, however, and broad support for multiculturalism persists alongside increasingly negative attitudes toward some religious and migrant groups.