5.5 billion tonnes of CO2 a year caused by HVAC, claims ‘Wreaking HVAC’ report

The ‘Wreaking HVAC on our planet’ report was published recently, highlighting the severe environmental impact of the global Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning industry – which is a bigger producer of CO2 emissions than all passenger vehicles, flights, and every country except China. The report estimates that HVAC (used only for comfort) produces 5.5 gigatonnes of CO2 each year (5,500,000,000 tonnes), or 15% of global energy related emissions. It highlights the cyclical problem of extreme temperatures and weather events increasing HVAC demand, which then furthers climate change, leading to further…

What does space ‘feel’ like? Blind astronomer takes RNIB Connect Radio’s team on tactile tour of the universe

Wonders of the universe tactile tour at the University of Portsmouth, part of a series of The Blind Leading The Blind challenges to celebrate RNIB Connect Radio’s 20th anniversary. On July 8th Blind astronomer Dr Nic Bonne taught a radio presenter who is severely sight impaired all about the wonders of the universe using his pioneering tactile models. The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) Connect Radio was established by the sight loss charity 20 years ago to provide news, information, and entertainment to people who are blind and…

Over Half Of UK Workers Too Uncomfortable To Talk About Mental Health At Work

New research from leading UK jobs and careers site Reed.co.uk reveals over half of UK employees do not feel comfortable disclosing mental health or psychological conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression, in the workplace.   The research, which surveyed over 2,000 workers and jobseekers across the UK, finds Millennials (anyone born between 1986-1991) are the generation least likely to disclose any mental health issues to their colleagues, with 57% stating they wouldn’t feel comfortable. Perhaps surprisingly, however, Baby Boomers, those aged 57-75, were the most comfortable talking about their mental…

Leading UK disaster-response charities join forces to support those affected by national emergencies

As the new National Risk Register is published, three of the UK’s leading emergency response charities have come together to ensure that people affected by UK emergencies receive fast, wrap-around support. The British Red Cross and REACT Disaster Response are both participating in the National Emergencies Trust’s National Charitable Partners Programme, which aims to ensure that when domestic disasters arise, no-one is left behind. As part of the Programme, both charities have designed tailored assistance packages that can be activated quickly in the aftermath of national emergencies, such as floods,…

Julia and Hans Rausing give £2m to disability charities across the UK

Julia and Hans Rausing have announced grants totalling £2 million to 41 disability charities across the UK. The grants, ranging from £440,000 to £4,000, will support charities of varying sizes meet the challenges of helping those with disabilities amidst the cost-of-living crisis. Research from the Trussell Trust, has shown more than a quarter of disabled people experience food insecurity, which is nearly three times higher than the rate amongst non-disabled people. Additionally, the requirement by so many for specialist equipment brings day-to-day higher energy usage and higher utility bills. Charities…