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The Planet is a newsletter focused on climate change, environmental activism, historical events and their lessons, cultural reflections, and personal stories. It explores the impact of global issues, celebrates nature and art, and examines the importance of individual and collective action against injustice and environmental degradation.

Environmental Activism Historical Reflections Climate Change Art and Culture Social Justice Personal Stories Wildlife and Nature Technology and Innovation

The hottest Substack posts of The Planet

And their main takeaways

A Fairy Tree Encounter: Bridging Worlds in the Island Woods

412 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Folklore Traditions Beliefs Mythology Magic
  1. Discovering a fairy tree can feel like stumbling upon a magical portal connecting our world to that of elves and fairies.
  2. Leaving offerings at fairy trees stems from ancient Celtic traditions, symbolizing respect and a plea for good fortune.
  3. Despite skepticism, tales of mysterious happenings near fairy trees continue to spark wonder and captivate imaginations.
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On Greenland's Ice Loss and Making the Planet Great Again

452 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Global Risks Environmental Science
  1. Greenland's ice loss is 20% higher than previously estimated, with one trillion metric tons of ice lost since 1992.
  2. Melting ice sheets in Greenland can affect global ocean currents like the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation.
  3. Defamation lawsuits against climate skeptics are important to protect scientists and ensure factual climate change discussions.

Capturing the Lesser-Known Golden Hour

452 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Nature Photography Experience
  1. The lesser-known golden hour is a beautiful time for capturing unique moments in photography.
  2. Nature holds a unique magic at dawn, providing moments of peace and connection with the planet's beauty.
  3. Silence in nature can be the best company, offering lessons and solace in the quiet surroundings.

Renewable Milestones: Scotland's Excess Energy and China's Solar Surge in 2023

353 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Renewable Energy Fossil fuels Climate Science Greenhouse Gases Global Warming
  1. Scotland's renewable energy sector surpassed 100% of electricity demand, a 26% increase from the previous year
  2. The fossil fuel industry funded early climate science, including the development of the iconic 'Keeling curve'
  3. China installed a record-breaking 216.9 gigawatts of solar capacity in 2023, surpassing any other nation

Addressing Global Divides on a Crackling Globe of Deepening Faults

314 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Global Risks Economic Growth Climate Crisis
  1. Global wealth inequality is increasing, with the ultra-rich getting richer while more than half of the world's population is becoming poorer.
  2. There is a need for effective and fair governments to address global issues like poverty, climate change, and inequality.
  3. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires a shift towards sustainable practices, reducing inequalities, and decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation.

After a Record-Hot January: Finding Balance Between Beauty and Climate Concerns

255 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Global Warming Nature Climate models Environmental Impact
  1. The global sea surface temperatures hit a new modern record high, which is a serious concern for climate change.
  2. Research suggests that the Atlantic overturning circulation (AMOC) is moving towards a tipping point, which could have catastrophic consequences for Europe's climate.
  3. It is crucial to appreciate and protect nature's beauty while also being mindful of the urgent climate concerns and potential tipping points.

A Day in the Life of Luna: The Cat's Perspective

550 implied HN points • 04 Feb 23
  1. Luna the cat has a structured daily routine with specific preferences and interactions with her owner.
  2. Luna enjoys playtime, exercises, naps, and exploring her environment throughout the day.
  3. The story provides a fun and amusing look at a day in the life of Luna from the cat's perspective.

Ninety Years After the Reichstag Was Set On Fire

373 implied HN points • 28 Feb 23
💾 History WWII Dictatorship Resistance
  1. History serves as a reminder of the dangers of fascism and the importance of resisting injustice.
  2. Individuals who stand up against oppression inspire others and highlight the power of activism.
  3. The burning of the Reichstag 90 years ago paved the way for the Nazi dictatorship, showcasing the manipulation of tragedies for political gain.

Honoring Traute Lafrenz (1919-2023): A Reminder to Stand Up Against Oppression

373 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Resistance Human Rights Authoritarian Regimes Oppression
  1. The White Rose resistance movement fought against the Nazi regime with courage and non-violent resistance.
  2. Standing up for justice and human rights is essential, even in the face of extreme violence and repression.
  3. Traute Lafrenz's life after the Nazi regime shows the power of individual action in the fight against oppression.

Another Canary Died in the Climate Coal mine: No Skating on the World's Largest Ice Rink.

353 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Global Crisis Environmental Impact Cultural heritage
  1. The Rideau Canal Skateway, the world's largest ice rink in Ottawa, is facing closure due to warming temperatures.
  2. Experts point to climate change as a likely cause for the abnormal closure of the skateway.
  3. This situation serves as a clear example of the urgent need for global action to address the climate crisis.