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Environment / 5 hours ago
The water behind your T-shirt: One cotton tee uses as much water as you drink in 2½ years
When you pick up a simple cotton T-shirt, you probably don’t think about water. But behind that soft, everyday fabric is surprisingly 2,700 litres of fresh water. When you pick up a simple cotton T-shirt, you probably don’t think about water. But behind that soft, everyday fabric is surprisingly 2,700 litres of fresh water. That’s how much it takes to grow the cotton, process it, and make just one T-shirt. To put that in perspective, that’s roughly the amount of water a person drinks in about two and a half years.
World / 36 weeks ago
All you need to know about the safest place in the world
Iceland has been crowned the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row, according to the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2024 by Vision of Humanity. This Nordic nation has consistently ranked high in terms of peace and safety, and it's not hard to see why. Iceland boasts a very low crime rate, with violent crime being extremely rare. The country's strong social attitudes against crime, high level of trust in its well-trained police force, and lack of tension among social and economic classes all contribute to its safe and peaceful environment. Iceland has no military, and police officers don't even carry firearms.
World / 37 weeks ago
The world’s top 10 postal service countries leading innovation and reliability
Switzerland continues to lead the world in postal service efficiency, securing the top position for the eighth consecutive year. According to the Universal Postal Union (UPU), SwissPost has demonstrated remarkable adaptability in responding to the challenges posed by declining letter volumes while capitalizing on the rise of e-commerce. The company has strengthened its role beyond traditional mail delivery by integrating banking services, ensuring it remains an essential part of the country's infrastructure. Its commitment to innovation and digital transformation has allowed it to maintain its dominance in postal rankings.
World / 37 weeks ago
Southeast Asia’s Powerhouses: Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, others set for strong growth
Indonesia is set to lead the Southeast Asian region with a projected economy of $1.5 trillion, positioning itself as a major economic powerhouse, according to IMF. This growth is fuelled by the country’s rich natural resources, including palm oil, coal, and nickel, making it a key global supplier. Indonesia’s rapidly expanding middle class drives domestic consumption, further strengthening the economy. With ongoing infrastructure development and digital transformation, the country is expected to maintain its upward trajectory in the coming years.
World / 39 weeks ago
How cities have transformed over time – And what’s next for urban growth
Cities have always been in flux, shaped by trade, industry, and geopolitics. From ancient commercial hubs to modern megacities, urban centres have expanded and adapted in response to economic and technological changes. But what forces have driven these shifts, and what can we expect in the future? Data revealed that the 19th and 20th centuries saw one of the most significant transformations in urban history. The rise of industrialisation fuelled large-scale migration to cities, as people sought jobs in factories and emerging industries. Urban populations surged, and cities like Manchester, New York, and Shanghai expanded rapidly, becoming economic powerhouses. Colonial influence also played a key role, as trade networks and administrative centres grew, shifting global economic power toward industrialized nations.
World / 41 weeks ago
Global aging crisis: The growing impact of a rapidly aging population
By 2050, an estimated 16% of the global population will be aged 65 or older, doubling the share recorded in 2022, according to the United Nations Population Division. This dramatic demographic shift reshapes societies worldwide, with Monaco leading the way. In the tiny European principality, 36% of the population is aged 65 or older, the highest proportion globally. Japan, a nation already grappling with the challenges of an ageing society, follows closely behind at 30%. The country’s ageing demographic has sparked critical conversations about the sustainability of its healthcare and welfare systems as policymakers scramble to address the needs of its older citizens.
