Environment - World Visualized

RSF index reveals that press freedom gaps widened globally in 2025

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Nuclear leads EU power mixNuclear leads EU power mix

Nuclear energy remains the single largest source of electricity in the European Union. Still, rapid growth in wind and solar is reshaping the bloc’s energy mix, marking a decisive shift toward low-carbon power, according to recent industry and institutional data.

Global carbon dioxide emissions have surged to unprecedented levels, climbing from just a few million tonnes in the 18th century to more than 38 billion tonnes today, according to the latest Global Carbon Budget 2025.

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.

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically vital oil shipping lanes, continues to dominate global energy security concerns, with the bulk of crude oil and liquefied natural gas flowing from a small group of Gulf producers, according to recent visual data and reporting by The New York Times.

Africa’s highest capitals: How altitude shapes life from Addis Ababa to Kampala

From the Ethiopian highlands to the rolling hills of East Africa, elevation is quietly shaping how millions live, work and build their cities.

Snow in Africa? Nine countries where winter bites

Across a continent more often associated with heat and arid landscapes, snowfall in Africa remains one of its lesser-known climate realities. Yet, from the Atlas Mountains in the north to the highlands of East Africa and the southern peaks of Lesotho, snow is not only possible, but it is also seasonal.

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China’s rare earth dominance raises alarm over global supply vulnerabilities

China holds the largest share of known rare earth reserves globally, estimated at around 44 million tonnes, according to data aligned with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Mineral Commodity Summaries 2025.

Washing clothes after every wear may feel like good hygiene, but experts say many people are overdoing it, with consequences not just for their wardrobes, but for the environment.

Brazil, Russia lead global freshwater reserves as water stress rises worldwide

Brazil holds the largest share of the world’s renewable freshwater resources, followed by Russia, highlighting a stark imbalance in global water distribution at a time when water scarcity is becoming an increasing concern for policymakers.

Mexico remains the world’s largest silver producer based on the latest available full-year data, with global mine supply totalling roughly 820 million ounces, according to the World Silver Survey 2024 published by the Silver Institute.

Copper is a critical metal for modern infrastructure, from renewable energy systems and electric vehicles to telecommunications and construction, and Chile holds far more copper beneath its soil than any other country, according to the latest figures on global mineral reserves.

Rain shapes life for millions around the globe, but in some places, it barely ever stops. New climate data highlight the top 10 cities with the most frequent annual rainfall, measured by the number of rainy days per year.

The world has unearthed roughly 700 million metric tons of copper in total throughout history. That’s enough to fill a cube roughly 430 metres on each side, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

"I love my food spicy" is a common phrase around the world, and there are different types of peppers that could help satisfy this desire.

If you’ve ever stood at the sink scrubbing plates after dinner, you might assume hand-washing uses the least water. But the latest figures suggest otherwise.

From electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, to satellites, rare earth elements are the bedrock of the technologies that define modern life.

Antarctica usually comes to mind when people think of penguins. That instinct is right, but it is only a part of the story. Penguins are much more geographically widespread, with significant populations across South America, Africa, and Oceania.

Venezuela’s oil industry has begun a cautious recovery after nearly a decade of steep decline, but production levels remain far below their former peak.

In parts of the Asia-Pacific region, having four or five children is still normal. In others, having even one child is becoming increasingly rare.