Scientists at the University of Yonsei in South Korea have developed a hybrid rice that integrates animal cells, resulting in a more nutritious product with higher protein and carbohydrate content. This innovation aims to provide a sustainable food source for the future. The hybrid rice, which has a pink hue, is designed to be a nutritious alternative to conventional rice and could be used in emergency situations and in space. The development of cultured meat, which shares similar technological principles, is also discussed, highlighting its potential to address environmental and health issues associated with traditional meat production. Experts emphasize the importance of cultural considerations in food innovation and the regulatory challenges faced in Europe for the approval of new food products.

Researchers at Yonsei University in South Korea have developed 'hybrid rice' by integrating animal cells into rice grains, resulting in a more nutritious food with higher protein and carbohydrate content. The rice, which has a pinkish hue, is seen as a potential sustainable future food. Cultured meat is gaining attention as a solution to environmental and health issues associated with traditional meat production. The hybrid rice could be used for emergency relief and in underdeveloped regions. While the technology is promising, there is ongoing debate about its desirability and acceptance, particularly concerning food culture and the classification of alternative meats as processed foods. Regulatory approval in Europe is still pending, but the market for cultivated meat is expected to grow significantly.

Pulsar Fusion is addressing the growing demand for larger and more powerful in-space propulsion systems as global launch services expand. The new rocket engine developed by the company is poised to support the next generation of satellite launches, marking a significant advancement in space exploration technology.

The aerospace industry is advancing with the development of larger in-space propulsion systems, exemplified by British company Pulsar Fusion's recent test of a 10 kW hall-effect thruster. This engine, significantly larger than conventional models, uses electromagnetic fields to accelerate ionized gas, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional rocket fuel. Supported by the UK Space Agency and tested at the University of Southampton, the thruster is designed to meet the growing demand for powerful propulsion systems as satellite launches increase. Pulsar Fusion's CEO, Richard Dinan, emphasizes the importance of these engines for future space missions, including space mining and exploration.

Researchers at University College London and Great Ormond Street have grown organoids, or 'mini-organs,' from stem cells found in amniotic fluid during late and active pregnancies, marking a first in the field. These organoids can replicate the functions of the epithelium of organs and are seen as a significant step in prenatal medicine, potentially allowing for the monitoring and treatment of congenital conditions in newborns. The research, published in Nature Medicine, also suggests the possibility of using organoids for personalized therapies and gene delivery to the fetus. The method offers an alternative to using fetal tissue, aligning with UK regulations on stem cell collection. Although still experimental, with 50 women participating in the study, the team, including Professor Paolo de Coppi, is optimistic about developing treatments within the next five years.

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology and the Wallenberg Wood Science Centre in Sweden have successfully tested a 3D-printed hydrogel material made of nanocellulose for potential use in greener architecture. This material, previously used in biomedicine, could replace lightweight infill materials in buildings, contributing to sustainable construction. The technology, which is energy-efficient and sustainable, aligns with the European Green Deal's goals. The research team aims to scale up the material for larger applications, focusing on interior uses for now.

Nurses in Denmark are increasingly shifting to cosmetic clinics due to better pay and working conditions, exacerbating a staffing crisis in public hospitals. The number of nurses in cosmetic care has surged, while hospitals face a shortage of 4,000 to 5,000 nurses, leading to longer waiting times. Health economist Jes Søgaard and the Danish Nurses’ Organisation highlight the systemic issues and the responsibility of politicians and regions to address the crisis. Nurses like Tanja Rossau Adsersen and Laura Søderberg cite challenging working conditions in public hospitals as a key factor in their decision to switch to cosmetic care.

The 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas showcases a range of innovative technologies, including L'Oreal's energy-efficient hairdryer using infrared light, BMW's automated valet parking system, Hollo AI's app for creating AI twins for content creators, Hyundai's battery-powered air taxi designed for urban areas, and Samsung's durable foldable OLED displays. These advancements highlight significant strides in consumer electronics, with a focus on efficiency, convenience, and environmental benefits.

In Argentina, scientists are combating mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya by sterilizing Aedes aegypti mosquitoes using gamma irradiation at the Ezeiza Atomic Centre. This method, known as the Sterile Insect Technique, was first introduced by Edward F. Knipling in the 1950s and offers a non-toxic alternative to pesticides. It specifically targets disease vectors without harming the wider ecosystem. The technique has become increasingly important as mosquito populations grow due to rising temperatures and humidity. With 68 deaths and over 130,000 confirmed cases in 2023, Argentina's health officials are preparing for the next major dengue wave expected between January and April 2024.

In Northern Australia, scientists, stockmen, and Indigenous rangers are collaborating on a four-year program called SpaceCows to monitor feral animals from space. The project, supported by the Australian government's Smart Farming Partnership initiative, uses AI and satellite technology to attach solar-powered GPS tags to cattle and buffalo. The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) has developed a digital platform with Microsoft technologies to track the animals and focus conservation efforts. The program aims to manage the ecological and economic threat posed by these animals and could become one of the largest remote herd management systems in the world.

The year 2023 marked significant achievements in space exploration, with ESA's JUICE mission embarking on a journey to Jupiter's icy moons, NASA's Osiris-Rex returning asteroid samples to Earth, and the launch of the Psyche mission to a metal-rich asteroid. SpaceX tested the world's most powerful rocket, Starship, which experienced an explosion on its first test but succeeded in November. These missions aim to enhance our understanding of the solar system and develop capabilities to protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts.

The UK has licensed its first spaceport at SaxaVord on the remote Scottish island of Unst, marking a significant step in the European space race. Despite a failed horizontal rocket launch attempt from Cornwall, the UK's Civil Aviation Authority's approval for SaxaVord, which will allow up to 30 vertical rocket launches annually starting in 2024, positions the UK at the forefront of the space economy. The spaceport is expected to attract international clients and contribute to education and the supply chain.

The Arma e-scooter, touted as the world's smallest and lightest, can fold down to the size of a sheet of paper and weighs only 4.5 kg. Developed by Japanese engineers, it features a unique folding mechanism and replaceable batteries, offering a range of 11-14 km and a top speed of 24 km/h. CEO Masaki Shizumu envisions transforming everyday commutes into exciting journeys and enhancing lifestyles. Launched on Kickstarter in November 2023, the project has raised nearly $76,000 and is set for a summer 2024 market release.

Arma has developed what is believed to be the world's smallest and lightest e-scooter, which can fold down to the size of 10 A4 paper sheets and weighs about 4.5 kg. The e-scooter supports riders up to 100 kg and transitions from carry-mode to ride-mode in seconds. It features a unique folding mechanism, replaceable batteries, a 250W motor, and can travel 11-14 km on a single charge at speeds up to 24 km/h. CEO Masaki Shizumu envisions the e-scooter transforming mobility and lifestyles. The product, which raised almost $76,000 on Kickstarter, is expected to hit the market in summer 2024.

Seakoo Wu and his wife, devastated by the death of their only child Xuanmo, have turned to artificial intelligence to create an avatar of their son. Utilizing deep learning technologies like ChatGPT, Wu has compiled photos, videos, and audio recordings to clone Xuanmo's face and voice. Although the results are rudimentary, they provide emotional solace to the grieving parents. Wu aims to develop a fully realistic avatar residing in a virtual space, reflecting his son's thought and speech patterns. The rise of 'ghost robots' in China is driven by high emotional needs, with companies like Super Brain claiming to have digitally resurrected thousands. Experts caution about the psychological and ethical implications, particularly the lack of consent from the deceased and potential misrepresentation of their memory.

Mauna Kea, a shield volcano in Hawaii, is at the center of a conflict between astronomers and Native Hawaiians. The mountain's conditions are ideal for astronomy, leading to the construction of observatories. However, the summit is also a sacred site for Native Hawaiians, featuring ceremonial platforms and burial sites. Tensions escalated in 2019 with plans to build the Thirty Meter Telescope, resulting in protests. A new law and authority aim to balance scientific and spiritual interests, with discussions on decommissioning less productive telescopes and renewing the University of Hawaii's lease for summit lands by 2033.

2023 marked significant milestones in space exploration, including ESA's JUICE mission launch to Jupiter, NASA's Osiris-Rex returning asteroid samples, and the launch of the Psyche spacecraft to study a metal-rich asteroid. SpaceX tested its powerful Starship rocket twice, with mixed results. These missions aim to explore extraterrestrial environments, study asteroids, and prepare for future space travel.

NASA and Lockheed Martin have unveiled the X-59, a 'quiet' supersonic aircraft designed to fly at 1.4 times the speed of sound with significantly reduced noise. The X-59 aims to overcome the noise restrictions that have historically limited supersonic travel over land. The aircraft is part of NASA's Quesst mission, which seeks to gather data to potentially lift the ban on supersonic flights over populated areas. The first test flights are scheduled for later this year, with plans to survey public perception of the noise by 2027. This development could significantly reduce travel times and redefine commercial supersonic travel.

In Belgium, rising cocaine use has led to an increase in patients with severe nasal lesions, prompting doctors at Liège's University Hospital Centre (CHU) to perform reconstructive surgeries. These patients, often in their forties and from privileged socio-economic backgrounds, suffer from nasal obstructions and damage to the nasal septum. The reconstructive procedure, rib graft rhinoplasty, requires patients to abstain from cocaine for at least six months. Despite the rise in cocaine use, the number of surgeries remains limited due to the difficulty in achieving prolonged abstinence.

Scientists at the University of East London are developing AI tools using lab-grown heart cells from human stem cells to detect heart diseases more efficiently. The research focuses on understanding how heart cells become defective with age and aims to preserve healthy cells. The AI software analyzes the heart's systole and diastole movements in ultrasound and MRI images to predict healthy versus detrimental aging. The team is also working on identifying and removing senescent cells to maintain heart function, with future plans to integrate AI into clinical imaging for broader application.

The UK has advanced its position in the European space race by licensing its first spaceport on the remote Scottish island of Unst. Despite a failed horizontal rocket launch attempt from Cornwall earlier this year, the UK is now focusing on vertical launches from SaxaVord, with up to 30 launches planned annually starting in 2024. The Civil Aviation Authority underscores the importance of this development for the UK's space industry, which has a long history of satellite design and manufacturing. SaxaVord's CEO, Frank Strang, and the Authority's policy director, Tim Johnson, both express optimism about the UK's future in the global space economy.

In 2023, robotics companies made significant advancements in AI-powered robots, including Desdemona, an AI popstar robot, and the Artificially Intelligent Critical Canine (AICCA), a robot dog that critiques art. The University of Cambridge developed a robot chef capable of learning recipes from videos, while the non-profit Junglekeepers used the YuMi robot to aid reforestation in the Peruvian Amazon. Yukai Engineering introduced Fufuly, a robotic cushion designed to help users relax by mimicking slow breathing patterns.

Significant health innovations in 2023 include a wireless brain-spine connection enabling a paraplegic patient to walk, a new cancer diagnostic test analyzing breath compounds, and the endorsement of a second malaria vaccine by the WHO. Alzheimer's research saw progress with regulatory approvals for Lecanemab and Donanemab, which slow disease progression. These advancements highlight the global strides in medical technology and treatments.

Robotics companies have made significant advancements in AI-powered robots in 2023, introducing innovations across various fields. Notable robots include Desdemona, an AI popstar; AICCA, a robot dog that critiques art; a robot chef from the University of Cambridge; and YuMi, a tree-planting robot aiding reforestation in the Peruvian Amazon. Additionally, Fufuly, a robotic cushion, helps users relax by mimicking slow breathing patterns. These developments highlight the growing role of robots in industries ranging from gastronomy to conservation.

A German startup, Vyld, has developed biodegradable tampons made from seaweed, named 'Kelpon'. These tampons, which do not require a plastic applicator, are praised for their eco-friendly properties and ease of use. The company aims to create a range of sustainable products from seaweed, promoting seaweed cultivation in Europe. The tampons are currently being tested and have received positive feedback from users. The initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce plastic waste, with plastic period products being a significant pollutant on European beaches.

Tokyo has transformed since the Great Kanto Earthquake a century ago, with a modern skyline of earthquake-resistant buildings like the Toranomon Hills Mori Tower. The city has implemented advanced seismic safety technology and emergency supplies to prepare for potential earthquakes. Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the vulnerability of traditional wooden houses and the city's overall resilience to natural disasters. Experts predict a 70% chance of a major earthquake hitting Tokyo in the next 30 years.

Shift Robotics, an American company, has invented a device that can be strapped onto shoes to increase walking speed by 250%, allowing a person to walk at speeds up to 11 km/h. The product, known as Moonwalkers, resembles sandals with rollers but provides balance and uses machine learning algorithms to move only when the user does. The Moonwalkers automatically adjust speed, stop when necessary, and lock wheels for ascending or descending stairs. A viral TikTok video of the shoes has garnered nearly 25 million views. Xunjie Zhang, the founder and CEO, was inspired to improve walking after a near-accident on an electric scooter. Developed with a team from Carnegie Mellon Robotics Institute, the AI adapts to each user's gait within 10 steps. Currently available only in the US for $1,399, the high price has elicited sarcastic comments on social media. The product was launched on Kickstarter in October 2022, raising almost $330,000, and has been tested by individuals aged 15 to 60, with most able to walk comfortably within 10-15 minutes.

Shift Robotics, an American startup, has developed the 'Moonwalkers', strap-on devices that attach to shoes and increase walking speed by 250%, allowing speeds up to 11 km/h. The product uses machine learning algorithms to adapt to the user's gait and requires less than 10 steps for the AI to learn walking patterns. The Moonwalkers were crowdfunded on Kickstarter, raising around $330,000. They are currently available in the US for $1,399 per pair. The high price has led to some sarcastic comments on social media.

Shift Robotics, an American company, has developed 'Moonwalkers', a device that attaches to shoes and increases walking speed by up to 250%, allowing speeds up to 11 km/h. The product uses machine learning algorithms to move only when the user does, with safety features like electronic brakes. It was created after the founder, Xunjie Zhang, questioned the inefficiency of walking to work. The Moonwalkers, which require no special skills and adapt to the user's walking pattern, raised nearly $330,000 on Kickstarter. Currently available only in the US, they are priced at $1,399 per pair. The high price has elicited some sarcastic comments on social media.

Shift Robotics, an American start-up, has developed 'Moonwalkers,' strap-on devices that can increase walking speed by up to 250%, allowing speeds of up to 11 km/h. The product, which resembles skates but is designed for safety and ease of use, employs machine learning to adapt to the user's gait. After a successful Kickstarter campaign raising almost $330,000, the Moonwalkers are available in the United States for $1,399 a pair. The invention aims to make walking a more viable and efficient mode of transportation.

Scientists at Helmholtz Munich have discovered a complex relationship between the skull and the brain, potentially revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases like Alzheimer's. Their research reveals direct connections between the skull's bone marrow and the brain's protective membranes, which could allow for non-invasive brain health monitoring. The study also found that immune cells from the skull can cause neuroinflammation, a feature of diseases such as Alzheimer's and stroke. Using advanced imaging techniques, the team visualized these connections, opening up possibilities for early diagnosis and continuous monitoring of brain diseases.

Researchers in Singapore have developed an AI system called MinD-Vis that can interpret brain wave patterns to recreate images a person is viewing. The system uses MRI scans and matches them with images to generate individual AI models for participants. The technology has potential applications for assisting people with disabilities and integrating into virtual reality headsets. However, challenges remain, including the need for more advanced datasets, computational power, and addressing privacy concerns. Researchers emphasize the importance of strict ethical guidelines to protect privacy.

Researchers from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) are developing 'Pibot', a humanoid robot capable of piloting airplanes without the need for cockpit modifications. Pibot can dexterously manipulate flight instruments, memorize complex manuals in natural language, and recall all Jeppesen aeronautical navigation charts worldwide. The robot uses high-precision control technology and large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT to understand and memorize manuals written for humans, potentially allowing for error-free flights and rapid emergency responses. Pibot, which is still in development and expected to be completed by 2026, can also communicate with air traffic controllers and cabin humans through voice synthesis and could replace humans in various vehicle operations.

KAIST engineers and researchers are developing 'Pibot', a humanoid robot that can pilot airplanes without cockpit modifications. Pibot manipulates controls with high precision, even in strong vibrations, and uses external and internal cameras for monitoring. It can memorize complex manuals and Jeppesen aeronautical navigation charts, surpassing human capabilities. Pibot's adaptability is enhanced by recent advancements in large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, allowing it to fly error-free and respond quickly in emergencies. The robot, which can also communicate with air traffic controllers and humans via voice synthesis, is designed for extreme situations and can operate as a pilot or co-pilot. Weighing 65 kg and standing 160 cm tall, Pibot's humanoid design enables it to replace humans in various roles, including driving cars, operating tanks, or commanding ships. The project, commissioned by South Korea's defense technology research agency ADD, is expected to be completed by 2026 and may have military applications.

A team from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) is developing 'Pibot,' a humanoid robot capable of piloting aircraft without cockpit modifications. Pibot can operate flight instruments with precision, memorize complex manuals, and understand natural language, thanks to advances in large language models like ChatGPT. It can respond quickly in emergencies, communicate with air traffic control, and is adaptable to other roles such as driving or commanding ships. The project, expected to complete by 2026, is commissioned by South Korea's Agency for Defense Development and may have future military applications.

The UK is constructing Europe's first lithium refinery to meet the rising demand for the metal, crucial for electric vehicle batteries. By 2030, 60% of new car sales are expected to be electric vehicles, each requiring significant amounts of lithium. Currently, the industry relies heavily on Eastern Asian suppliers, particularly China, which dominates the global battery supply chain. The British company Green Lithium has received government permission to build the refinery in Teesside, England, aiming to supply British and European automakers. The plant, starting operations in 2027, will produce 50,000 tons of lithium annually, enough for a million electric cars. Green Lithium plans to reduce the carbon footprint of lithium processing by using low-energy processes, renewable electricity, hydrogen gas, and carbon capture technology, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 80% compared to traditional production.

The UK is constructing Europe's first and largest lithium refinery in Teesside, England, to meet the growing demand for electric vehicle batteries. The refinery, operated by Green Lithium, will start operations in 2027 with an annual production capacity of 50,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium chemicals, enough to power one million electric cars. The project aims to reduce reliance on East Asian lithium refineries and promises significant carbon reduction through innovative, low-energy processes and renewable energy sources.

Around 400 early-detection sensors have been installed in Brandenburg's Eberswalde forest to monitor and detect wildfires using AI technology developed by Dryad Networks. These solar-powered sensors act like 'electronic noses,' detecting gases emitted during the earliest phase of a fire, allowing for rapid intervention. The data is relayed to a cloud-based system, alerting fire authorities. The technology, which distinguishes between different types of wildfires, is faster than traditional surveillance systems. Brandenburg is testing these sensors alongside visual detection methods. The technology is also being experimented with in ten countries, including the United States, Greece, and Spain. Scientists warn that climate change will increase wildfire risks, with over 119,000 hectares already burned across the EU by mid-June 2023.

Sugar Lab, located in East Los Angeles, is the world's first 'digital bakery' where a team of chefs, designers, and tech enthusiasts create custom-ordered 3D printed sweets and chocolates. Co-founder Kyle von Hasseln, who began experimenting with 3D printing at the Southern California Institute of Architecture, emphasizes the complexity and artistry involved in the process. The lab uses an NSF-certified food 3D printer, unique for its certification and ability to operate at scale. Head chef Jonathan Solomon expresses excitement about working on the future of food technology. Sugar Lab's creations have received an incredibly positive response and are available for purchase on their website.

The GR-1 humanoid robot, designed to assist with tasks such as carrying patients and picking up objects, is set to be mass-produced to address labour shortages in China, driven by an ageing population. This technological advancement aims to alleviate the burden on the workforce and improve care for the elderly.

China's ageing population is driving the development of humanoid robots to address labor shortages in healthcare. Fourier Intelligence, a Shanghai-based firm, is developing the GR-1 robot to assist in caregiving and therapy. The GR-1, still in development, aims to perform tasks like carrying patients and picking up objects. The robot was showcased at the World AI Conference alongside Tesla's Optimus and DEEP Robotics' X20, which is designed for dangerous tasks. The initiative highlights the potential of robotics to alleviate labor shortages and perform hazardous jobs.

Europe faces a severe wildfire season, with over 119,000 hectares burned by mid-June. Swiss researchers have developed a heat-resistant drone, FireDrone, capable of operating in extreme temperatures to locate and assist people trapped in fires. Inspired by the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the drone uses advanced sensors and aerogel technology to withstand high heat. The team aims to deploy FireDrones in industrial settings for rapid response. The innovation is seen as a significant advancement in firefighting technology.

Researchers from Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark have developed a new blood test called EVITA, which can detect genetic abnormalities in foetuses with high accuracy. This method is less invasive than the current chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and carries no risk of miscarriage. The test, which isolates foetal cells from the mother's blood, can identify a range of chromosomal diseases and potentially more in the future. While the test is not yet publicly available in Denmark, it is offered at private hospitals and clinics. Ethical concerns have been raised about the implications of such early and detailed genetic testing.

Eight mechanical engineering students at ETH Zurich are developing the Meta Suit, a tactile suit with artificial muscles that enhances interaction with virtual reality by providing haptic feedback. The suit uses Hasel technology to mimic human muscle movements, allowing users to 'feel' virtual environments. The Meta Suit also offers motion tracking without cameras, addressing limitations of current VR devices. Potential applications extend beyond VR to fields like motion tracking in films and aiding Parkinson’s patients.

Researchers at Arizona State University are utilizing a custom-built thermal dummy named ANDI to study the effects of extreme heat on the human body. ANDI, capable of sweating, breathing, and walking, is tested in controlled environments to simulate various heat-exposure scenarios. The research aims to develop solutions for heat-related illnesses, factoring in different health characteristics and conditions. The team plans to pair ANDI with another heat robot, MaRTy, to enhance their understanding of human thermal regulation. The study is particularly relevant as global temperatures rise due to climate change, with significant implications for public health.

Amid labor shortages and increased safety concerns, Swiss security firm Securitas AG has been using an AI-powered patrol robot developed by ETH Zurich start-up Ascento. The robot, equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, enhances security and operational efficiency. Ascento plans to further develop the robot to produce automatic security reports and rent it by the hour to complement human security teams. CEO Alessandro Morra emphasizes the robot's ability to ease the demanding conditions faced by human guards.

Scientists in Switzerland have developed a minimally invasive brain-monitoring electrode that can be inserted through a small hole in the skull and fanned out to cover a larger area of the cortex. This innovative device, designed by experts at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), aims to help epilepsy patients by providing a less invasive method to monitor and stimulate brain activity. The electrode array, which has been successfully tested in a mini-pig, will be further developed by Neurosoft Bioelectronics, an EPFL spin-off, with hopes of scaling the technology for human use.

Scotland has launched the UK's first autonomous bus service, operating five single-deck buses on a 22.5 km route from Fife to Edinburgh. The service, part of the UK government-funded CAVForth project, will run until 2025. Despite the autonomous technology, a safety driver and a captain will be onboard due to current UK laws. Stagecoach, the operator, believes the technology will enhance fuel efficiency, safety, and customer experience.

Cigarette butts are a significant environmental pollutant, leading to calls from the World Health Organization and various European health bodies for a ban on cigarette filters. Countries like the Netherlands and Belgium are considering such measures, arguing that filters provide no health benefits and contribute to pollution. Health campaigners believe that banning filters could deter smoking, especially among youth. However, tobacco companies like Philip Morris oppose the ban, calling it symbolic and impractical. Meanwhile, companies like Lidl are proactively phasing out tobacco sales in Denmark, aligning with health organizations' goals for a smoke-free future.

Sweden is pioneering the world's first permanent electrified road on the E20 motorway, enabling electric vehicles to charge while driving. This initiative supports the EU's goal for zero CO2 emissions from new cars by 2035. The project, led by Trafikverket, is in the procurement stage and aims to be operational by 2025. Various charging methods are being considered, including catenary, conductive, and inductive systems. The project is expected to benefit both heavy-duty vehicles and private cars, potentially reducing battery sizes by up to 70%. Sweden collaborates with Germany and France to advance electric road systems, with plans to expand further by 2045.

Global fish and seafood consumption is at an all-time high, with a study suggesting oceans could be empty by 2048. To address this, Steakholder Foods and Umami Meats are developing lab-grown fish fillets using 3D printing. The process creates a product that mimics the texture and taste of real fish without antibiotics. Challenges remain in matching the cost of traditional seafood, but the companies aim to introduce their products to markets like Singapore, the United States, and Japan, starting next year.

Sweden is transforming a highway into the world's first permanent electrified road, allowing vehicles to recharge while driving. This initiative aligns with the EU's recent law requiring all new cars sold to be zero CO2 emissions by 2035. The E20 highway, connecting logistics hubs between Hallsberg and Örebro, is the chosen site for this project, expected to be constructed by 2025. Various charging methods are being considered, including catenary systems, inductive, and conductive charging. While focusing on trucks, a recent study suggests that private cars could also benefit, potentially reducing battery size by up to 70% when combining home charging with dynamic charging. Sweden, in collaboration with Germany and France, is sharing experiences through research and authority collaborations on electric roads, with plans to extend an additional 3,000 km of electric road by 2045.

Sweden is pioneering the development of electrified roads, converting a section of the E20 highway to allow dynamic charging of electric vehicles while in motion. This initiative is part of a broader European effort to meet the EU's 2035 zero-emission vehicle mandate. The project, set to be completed by 2025, explores various charging methods, including contact, inductive, and conductive systems. Experts highlight the potential for significant battery size reduction and increased efficiency for both heavy and light vehicles. Sweden collaborates with Germany and France on similar projects, while other countries like Italy, the UK, the USA, and India are also advancing dynamic EV charging infrastructure.

FabricNano, a London-based startup, is working on a system to produce plastics without using oil and gas, aiming to make bio-based and sustainable chemicals more widely available. The company specializes in cell-free biomanufacturing, which uses enzymes to produce various products. While the chemical industry currently relies heavily on fossil fuels, FabricNano's technology could reduce this dependence and contribute to creating materials that are more symbiotic with the environment. The specifics of their process are proprietary, and while enzymes are already used in chemical and food production, adapting them for industrial use in creating plastics and other products without fossil fuels is still a developing field.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant drop in childhood vaccination rates, with 25 million children under one missing basic vaccines in 2021. The WHO, in collaboration with UNICEF, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has launched 'The Big Catch-up' initiative to restore immunization progress in 20 countries, including Afghanistan, Angola, and Brazil. The initiative aims to address access issues and combat disinformation. Despite the global decline, countries like India, Uganda, and Kenya have shown positive developments in maintaining or improving vaccination coverage.

A scientific team utilized a glider in Belgium to investigate the effects of gravity on health, specifically examining if weightlessness could inhibit cancer growth. Cancerous tumours from the Netherlands were used in the study, led by Dr. Tricia Larose from the University of Oslo. Veteran Belgian pilot Vladimir Plester from the ESA conducted parabolic flights to simulate microgravity. The experiments also explored the impact of zero gravity on heart rates and bone fractures, with further tests planned for a 2025 space mission in collaboration with UNOOSA and the China Manned Space Agency.