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Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 1 hour 53 min ago

In 2021, a North Yorkshire estate began restoring 2,500 acres of farmed land; four years later...

07/09/2026
After four years dedicated to rewilding, Broughton Sanctuary has successfully documented over 1,700 species. The estate boasts more than 330,000 trees planted, significantly enhancing forest cover. By managing livestock and beavers, diverse habitats are flourishing. Extensive fencing removal has further facilitated wildlife movement. Going forward, plans include reintroducing native species and expanding vibrant wetland areas for richer biodiversity.

England released beavers into a Dorset woodland in 2025; one year later, their dams had...

07/09/2026
Beavers newly introduced in Dorset have remarkably transformed a woodland area into a flourishing wetland. Through their natural dam-building, these creatures have slowed down water movement, resulting in the formation of deep pools. This ecological shift has rejuvenated the local fauna, reintroducing various native species to the Purbeck region. Additionally, the beaver dams serve to mitigate flooding on nearby roads during heavy rains, highlighting nature’s essential contribution to environmental resilience.

Dutch students design solar-powered micro-factory that turns plastic waste into building bricks

07/09/2026
Dutch students won a hackathon for their solar-powered micro-factory concept. This innovative system transforms plastic waste into durable building bricks for housing. A working prototype is now being tested in Ghana with local partners. The project aims to provide safe and affordable homes while managing waste. Further research and funding are sought for wider implementation.

Scientists discovered an underwater city of 20,000 octopus nests deep inside California coast

07/09/2026
In a remarkable finding, researchers have identified the largest nursery for octopuses off the Californian coast, aptly termed the 'Octopus Garden.' This incredible site is alive with thousands of pearl octopuses that mate and nest in the warm waters accelerated by nearby hydrothermal vents. Females diligently tend to their eggs until they hatch, giving life in their final moments as their bodies replenish the food chain for other deep-sea creatures.

Southern Cal. anglers are catching unusually large & rare fish

07/09/2026
In Southern California, local fishermen are delighted to encounter a surge of warm-water fish species, an effect of rising ocean temperatures associated with El Niño and marine heatwaves. This change has drawn in fish like yellowtail and bonito, which are often absent from these waters. However, while this provides thrilling fishing options, it’s crucial to remember that previous events like this have resulted in serious environmental repercussions.

Meet Alyssa: 7-year-old Calgary girl discovers 445-million-year-old sea-star fossil

07/09/2026
A young palaeontology enthusiast found a rare sea-star fossil at a Calgary playground. This ancient specimen is estimated to be between 250 and 400 million years old. The fossil was embedded in a boulder placed at the park during construction years ago. Experts confirmed its significance and rarity due to specific fossilisation conditions required. The fossil was carefully removed for preservation and potential museum display.

Scientists mixed coffee grounds and oyster shells to create a stronger construction material

07/09/2026
Researchers developed a new construction material using waste coffee grounds and oyster shells. Adding oyster shells, in powdered or granular forms, improved the material's strength. GGBS-based alkali-activated materials served as the binder for these waste components. Curing conditions and activator type significantly influenced the mixture's final performance. Durability results were encouraging, showing high resistance to degradation.

In 1953, North and South Korea established a demilitarised zone; decades later it is a 155-mile-long wildlife haven

07/09/2026
The Korean Demilitarised Zone, known for its fortified borders, has unexpectedly emerged as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. This area has largely evaded the effects of urbanization and agriculture, allowing rare species such as musk deer and leopards to flourish. Additionally, migratory birds have discovered refuge in the zone's wetlands and rice fields, thanks to ongoing conservation initiatives and eco-tourism efforts aimed at safeguarding this remarkable ecosystem.

Worms turn human waste into compost, but parasitic eggs can survive the process

07/09/2026
Research indicates that tiger worms did not decompose Ascaris eggs present in faecal waste during lab trials. The eggs remained intact and capable of survival following prolonged exposure to the worms. A majority of the eggs were discovered within the coir layer of the biodigesters. As a result, the produced vermicompost and effluent must not be deemed safe for farming, necessitating additional testing for products from tiger worm toilets.

Scientists fooled 11 bat species with fake water covered in clear plastic

07/09/2026
Bats often confuse smooth artificial surfaces for water through their echolocation abilities. Researchers discovered that multiple bat species, including those still inexperienced with water, persistently tried to drink from these misleading surfaces. This intriguing behavior underscores the significant role of echolocation in shaping bats' environmental perceptions and suggests that artificial surfaces can emit deceptive acoustic cues that alter their natural behaviour.

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