An international study led by scientists at Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, with contributions from the John Innes Centre and China's Institute of Crop Science, explores the history and potential of wheat. The research highlights the genetic diversity of wild grasses, such as Aegilops tauschii, which contributed to modern wheat's genome. The study aims to enhance wheat's nutritional value, disease resistance, and climate resilience by integrating traits from wild grasses. This is crucial for meeting future global food demands, as wheat is a staple crop providing significant calories worldwide.

Four rare red panda cubs have been born at Whipsnade Zoo and Longleat Safari Park in the UK, marking a significant success for the European Endangered Species Programme. The cubs, named Alex, Priya, and two unnamed males, are thriving under the care of zookeepers. The red panda, native to the eastern Himalayas, is endangered due to habitat loss and deforestation. Conservation efforts, including those by the Red Panda Network in Nepal, aim to restore habitats and ensure the species' survival. The zoos' breeding programs contribute to a vital backup population, preserving genetic diversity.

Innovative greenhouse technology being trialed in Bristol, England, by LettUs Grow, uses aeroponics to enhance indoor food production, ensuring year-round availability of certain foods. This method, which involves spraying plants with a watery mist, promotes faster growth and is more sustainable and cost-effective. The technology, developed in collaboration with the John Innes Centre, could revolutionize the greenhouse industry, particularly in northern Europe, by improving water efficiency and productivity, and reducing carbon impact.

Grass pea plants, known for their drought tolerance and nutritional value, are being gene-edited at the John Innes Centre in Norwich, England, to remove a neurotoxin that can cause paralysis if consumed excessively. This initiative aims to create safer crops, especially in regions like sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. The recent change in UK law has facilitated this research, allowing for the development of healthier and more resilient crops. Scientists are also exploring the potential of gene-edited tomatoes enriched with Vitamin D. The research underscores the urgency of finding food production solutions as climate change accelerates.

Grass pea plants, known for their drought tolerance and nutritional value, are being gene-edited at the John Innes Centre in Norwich, England, to remove a neurotoxin that can cause paralysis if consumed excessively. This research is particularly relevant due to climate change, as grass peas can withstand extreme weather conditions better than other crops. The recent change in UK law has facilitated this genetic research, allowing for the development of healthier and more resilient crops. Scientists are also exploring the potential of growing these plants in European soil and transferring their climate tolerance to other crops. The advancements in gene editing are seen as crucial for future food production amid accelerating climate change.

The UK inflation rate fell to 7.9 percent in June, its lowest in over a year, but remains high compared to other advanced economies, driving up the cost of essential goods and services. Consumers are struggling with rising prices, particularly for food items, and businesses are facing increased costs. Despite some price drops in items like bread, essentials such as milk, cheese, and eggs have seen significant price hikes. The strain on household budgets is affecting spending on luxuries and causing concern among mortgage holders. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's pledge to halve inflation by the end of the year faces challenges as the UK economy has not grown in the last three months.

In Milton Keynes, UK, commuters can now hail remotely driven taxis using the Fetch app, developed by Imperium Drive. The cars are controlled by operators at the company's base and can be self-driven by customers upon arrival. Initially, the service will include a safety driver and operate four cars in a limited area. Imperium Drive's CEO, Koosha Kaveh, emphasizes safety and plans to introduce more autonomous features gradually. The technology, which has undergone 18 months of road trials, is part of a broader movement towards driverless vehicles in the UK, including a driverless bus service in Scotland.

UK road users are encouraged to move away from diesel transport to meet net zero targets. Lunaz, a tech firm based at Silverstone Science and Technology Park, is converting diesel waste collection trucks to electric, partnering with waste management company Biffa. The conversion process involves upcycling existing vehicles, significantly reducing embedded carbon and saving costs. The modified trucks, which include modern features and efficient electric motors, are set to be deployed later this year. Lunaz aims to expand its facility and workforce to convert over a thousand industrial vehicles annually.

Whipsnade Zoo near London celebrates the birth of two Przewalski's horse foals, boosting its international breeding program aimed at supporting the endangered species. The Przewalski's horse, native to Asia and the only truly wild horse, has been reintroduced to Mongolia and China but still faces challenges such as extreme weather, habitat loss, and competition from domestic animals. The zoo's efforts are crucial for maintaining genetic diversity and aiding the species' survival in the wild.

Accelerated coastal erosion in Hemsby, Norfolk, is threatening homes and community safety, with recent storms exacerbating the situation. Residents like Kevin Jordan and Lance Martin face significant challenges, including property damage and loss of basic services. Local campaigners, led by Ian Brennan, are advocating for a full-length sea berm to protect the village, but funding remains a significant hurdle. The local authority is taking immediate measures, but long-term solutions are needed to safeguard the community.