‘Food and fossil fuel production causing $5bn of environmental damage an hour’

About 200,000 people have fled their homes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels clash with the Congolese army and other groups while advancing towards a strategic eastern town, just days after a peace deal was brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump between Rwanda and the DRC. The UN reports at least 74 fatalities, primarily among civilians, due to the escalating violence in the region.

More than 9,000 children in Gaza were hospitalized for acute malnutrition in October, according to the latest UN figures, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis despite a ceasefire declared two months ago. Aid agencies report that Israeli restrictions on humanitarian aid shipments continue, exacerbating the situation for the 2.2 million Palestinians in Gaza, many of whom are suffering from the effects of prolonged conflict and displacement.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees visited Sudan to draw attention to the deepening humanitarian crisis, which has escalated two years into a civil war. The visit highlights the urgent need for international support as millions face dire conditions, including food shortages and displacement.

New York City is preparing for the approval of three new casinos, with two located in Queens and one in the Bronx, following a recent surge in gambling across the United States. The New York gaming facility location board has determined that these casinos will create jobs and generate significant tax revenue, despite concerns raised by experts about the potential negative impacts on local businesses and increased gambling addiction.

Michael van Gerwen, the former world No 1 darts player, reflects on a challenging year marked by personal struggles, including a divorce and his father's battle with cancer. Despite these hardships, he expresses a newfound optimism about his performance and aims to reclaim his former glory at the world championship.

A recent UN environment report has been criticized by its co-chair for being 'hijacked' by the US and other governments, which allegedly derailed an agreement on the study concerning fossil fuels. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in international environmental negotiations.

UK households have discarded an estimated 168 million light-up Christmas items and other 'fast-tech' gifts over the past year, according to a study by the non-profit group Material Focus. Consumers spent approximately £1.7 billion on festive lighting last year, which included 39 million sets of fairy lights.

The logo and branding for the newly renationalised Great British Railways were unveiled at London Bridge, featuring a design that incorporates the traditional red, white, and blue colors along with a familiar double arrow symbol. This marks a significant step in the reform of the railway system in the UK.