Public research university; founding Russell Group member with multi-campus footprint
Arctic sea ice has continued its downward trend. New data show the winter extent declined sharply in 2025 and 2026, reversing a brief period of slowdown and underscoring ongoing warming. Scientists say winter losses threaten global weather patterns and highlight a warming Arctic.
The government has announced planning and enforcement changes to curb vape shops, betting shops and other venues on high streets. Local councils will gain new powers, with planning permission required for vape shops and tighter controls on gambling premises. The measures aim to restore community spaces and address concerns about crime linked to some retailers.
A large oil slick has spread from the Minoan Pioneer attack area across the Strait of Hormuz toward Qeshm Island, threatening coastal ecosystems and fishing communities. Authorities say the spill may be linked to the August 3 attack, with Iran calling for compensation as patience wears thin amid ongoing maritime tensions.
Researchers have located eight ancient cave sites in south-west Ireland with rock art dating back at least 15,000 years, suggesting a Lost Land Bridge connected Ireland to Britain during the last Ice Age. The team has used AI-driven mapping to identify candidates and plans to protect locations from vandalism.
Conservationists report encouraging signs of seahorse and other marine life returning at Studland Bay, Dorset, but shifting weather patterns threaten seagrass and habitat recovery. The Studland Bay Marine Partnership and eco moorings aim to protect the seabed as divers monitor populations under strict licensing. Volunteers describe sightings as optimistic, though long-term trends remain uncertain.
Heavy, near‑continuous rain since late September has dumped roughly 300–330mm across Bangkok, forcing the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to declare all 50 districts disaster zones. Major roads and canals have flooded, thousands of households have been affected and airports and businesses have suffered disruptions as authorities pump water and open shelters.