Short News
Countries to stop plastic exports
Most nations have now agreed to stop exporting plastic waste to other countries, especially in Asia, where it often ends up in nature.
Real identity for refugees
More than 250,000 Rohingya refugees have now been registered, giving them a legal identity that increases safety and can make it easier for them to return home.
End of malaria in China
Malaria was once a huge problem in China, but since 2016 there have been no new cases. The change follows decades of fighting the disease.
Refugees return home in Iraq
While the number of displaced persons worldwide remains record high, four million former refugees have now returned to their homes in Iraq after the war.
Copenhagen crackdown on cups
From 2020, Copenhagen has decided to ban events from using thin plastic cups. Beverages will instead be sipped from thicker cups that can be cleaned and reused.
Fewer child grooms
A new report shows that child marriage not only impacts girls, but many boys as well. However, fewer children of both genders now get married than previously.
Countries get rid of malaria
Argentina and Algeria have now been certified free from malaria, following several years without any new cases of the disease.
Millions turn on the light
Since 2016, an additional 160 million people worldwide have gained access to electricity. However, about 840 million are still left in the dark.
A greener and more pleasant land
Over the next two years, an additional 130,000 trees are to be planted in English towns and cities, in order to fight climate change and make life more pleasant.
Industry agrees to stop trans fat
A group of 12 big producers of food and snacks has agreed to follow WHO recommendations to eliminate the use of deadly trans-fat in food products by 2023.
Scientists map HIV
A new study has produced a very detailed map of where most of the Africans infected by HIV live. The mapping can help focus efforts against the deadly disease.
New law against child labour
The Netherlands has passed a law to force companies to investigate and make sure that there is no child labour in their supply chain.