New material found by AI could reduce lithium use in batteries
Microsoft said AI and supercomputing were used to synthesise an entirely new material. Read More
Austrian ski gondola crashes in Hochoetz injuring four
The gondola is said to have fallen 7m (23ft) at the Hochoetz ski resort in Tyrol. Read More
Global economy set for weakest growth since pandemic, warns World Bank
Concerns over interest rates and Middle East mean the World Bank expects growth of just 2.4% in 2024. Read More
Spain pollution: Millions of plastic pellets wash up on coast
Thousands of sacks of pellets, known as nurdles, are believed to have fallen from a ship on 8 December. Read More
South Korea’s generational divide over dog meat ban
The slaughter and sale of dogs for their meat is set to become illegal in the country. Read More
Ethiopia-Somaliland meeting ratchets up tensions with Somalia
The two discuss military co-operation as concerns rise over a deal about sea access for Ethiopia. Read More
North Korea’s Kim Jong Un believed to have turned 40
North Korea watchers believe he hit the milestone on Monday, although the state remained silent. Read More
Cuba to increase price of fuel by more than 500%
The island is experiencing a crippling economic crisis which has already driven thousands to emigrate. Read More
Ecuador prisoners take guards hostage after drug lord’s escape
Rioting erupted at six jails after the leader of Los Choneros prison gang escaped from his cell. Read More
2023 confirmed as world’s hottest year on record
Climate records have tumbled “like dominoes” in 2023, with temperatures far above any recorded level. Read More