In 2019, Los Angeles County coated streets across a 0.64-square-kilometer neighborhood; surfaces were up to 9°F cooler, but ten months later the cooling effect had fallen by about 1.8°F

In an effort to combat the urban heat island phenomenon, Los Angeles initiated cool pavement trials in the Winnetka and Pacoima neighborhoods. The projects featured reflective coatings, which initially reduced surface temperatures. However, as time went on, weathering impacted their effectiveness. Findings from these studies pointed to the necessity for ongoing maintenance to uphold reflectivity,…

By 2008, New Hampshire researchers had tested porous asphalt through four winters; a later study found it could cut annual salt use by 64% to 77%

A comprehensive four-year study by the University of New Hampshire assessed the winter performance of porous asphalt, revealing its exceptional drainage and friction characteristics. The research demonstrated that porous asphalt needed about seventy-five percent less salt each winter. Impressively, this reduction not only upheld but also enhanced safety on the surfaces compared to traditional pavement…

Pune academician Divakaran delivers keynote at Thailand International Leadership Award 2026

Pune academician Prof Dr Prakash Divakaran, Vice-Chancellor of Himalayan University, Itanagar, represented India at the Thailand International Leadership Award 2026 and delivered a keynote address at an international leadership forum in Thailand. Speaking on value-driven leadership, he highlighted integrity, responsibility, social service and the role of education in developing responsible leaders. The event brought together…

Climate challenges in Maharashtra discussed at Pune workshop

Maharashtra’s growing climate challenges, from water scarcity in drought-prone Marathwada to urban flooding in Pune, were discussed at the ‘Changing Tides in Maharashtra’ workshop. Researchers, policymakers and practitioners explored evidence-based, community-led climate action focused on water, agriculture, land restoration, gender, livelihoods and rural resilience. Organised by the Bharti Institute of Public Policy, WOTR, WOTR Centre…

Where books, play and learning come together in Delhi’s Nizamuddin Basti

Khwab Ghar in Nizamuddin Basti provides children a unique learning environment. Children engage with books, art, and games, fostering creativity and self-expression. This safe space allows them to explore stories and characters at their own pace. Activities like shadow puppetry bring stories to life, making learning enjoyable. The initiative, run by Aagaaz Theatre Trust, welcomes…

In the 1950s, Florida landscapers introduced an Asian ornamental tree; decades later, soapberry bugs feeding on it had beaks about 30% shorter than those on native balloon vine

In Florida, the introduction of the golden rain tree sparked a swift adaptation in soapberry bugs, leading them to develop shorter beaks suitable for feeding on the tree’s seeds. However, research later revealed a concerning trend: the native bug population that had adapted to these invasive plants began to disappear, highlighting a loss of the…

If you earn ₹30,000 a month, this iPhone costs you more than 5 months of salary: What makes people spend so much on a phone

Expensive smartphones often represent a badge of honor for individuals, serving as a gateway to feeling successful and connected. Psychologists suggest that this attachment goes beyond mere technology, linking closely to identity and social status. The pressures of social comparison and the anxiety of missing out compel many to invest in these devices.