Down to Earth

What do beavers have to do with preventing flooding? The aquatic rodents have become a source of inspiration for engineers looking to flood–proof rural areas. Beaver dams are one of the nature-based solutions being considered by the European Union in a €15 million project. The Lèze valley in the south of France is putting them to the test.

Periods of intense heat followed by extreme rainfall could cause structural damage to 12 million homes across France, or one in two detached houses, according to the French environment ministry. As homes deteriorate, some owners can lean on insurance for expensive repairs, but many are left with hefty bills. Our France 2 colleagues report.

The amount of heat trapped by the Earth has reached record levels. According to the UN's annual State of the Climate report, published this Monday, the last 11 years have been the warmest ever recorded. For the first time, the World Meteorological Organization is warning of a growing "energy imbalance", driven by rising greenhouse gas emissions. Scientists also fear that a natural warming phase called El Niño could soon bring further heat records. FRANCE 24's Environment Editor Valerie Dekimpe explains. 

Cities around the world are clearing their billboards of ads for flights, cruise ships and petrol cars in an effort to reduce planet-warming gases. Amsterdam is the latest city to join the movement, becoming the first capital in the world to approve a legal ban on fossil fuel advertising. Dutch activists are now calling for restrictions to be enforced on a national level. Our Down to Earth team reports. 

An Antarctic mission is shining a light into the depths of the waters of the South Pole. Conservation group Under the Pole have been conducting marine research and raising awareness for almost 20 years. They've recently made some stunning discoveries by diving deep under the ice. Our France 2 colleagues report.

Huge fires broke out in Tehran after Israeli strikes targeted Iranian oil infrastructure. Residents reported the smell of burning lingering in the air, with many saying the sky remained dark even as the sun rose and rain fell over the city. FRANCE 24's Valérie Dekimpe tells us more about the strikes and their consequences for the population.

Qatar's state-run energy firm says it has halted Liquefied Natural Gas production following Iranian attacks on facilities at two of its main gas processing bases. This is only the latest consequence of the Middle East conflict on global markets. FRANCE 24's Environment Editor Valerie Dekimpe looks at the ripple effects of a war that's igniting fears of a major energy crisis. 

Can mushrooms replace leather and plastic? Thanks to mycelium derived from fungi, companies can now make 100 percent biodegradable products such as shoes and furniture that look exactly like leather. Major brands are already trying to make the shift. Our France 2 colleagues report. 

According to recent research, three-quarters of children spend less time outdoors than prison inmates. Around the world, forest schools are gaining popularity, offering an alternative to traditional classrooms within four walls. Down to Earth visited one such school in Switzerland, where children learn through outdoor play and exploration.

This year, the Winter Olympics are taking place in the north of Italy, against a backdrop of climate change and rising temperatures, which are casting a shadow over the future of the Games. Like many of its predecessors, Milan Cortina is relying on artificial snow, pumping 50,000 cubic metres of water, or the equivalent of 20 Olympic-sized pools. Our environment editor Valérie Dekimpe tells us more.