global development
Permanent housing an enduring problem in Haiti
Many in Haiti are still without permanent housing, years after the earthquake that rocked the country. Many of them live on land belonging to others, or in situations that may be dangerous, and they're upset be efforts to move them out.
Company in Prague turns to homeless people to show city's less-seen side
Prague is a major tourist draw in Europe's Czech Republic. But, like much of Europe, the city and country have its share of economic problems, which are contributing to a rise in homelessness. But one tourism company is harnessing that and hiring the homeless as tour guides. And they have a distinctly different point of view.
Indian meteorologists trying to develop more precise forecasts of critical monsoon rains
India's agricultural sector, which employs about half of the country's population, depends on the annual monsoon rains for its very existence. Without it, the crops won't grow, people won't eat, won't have money -- won't survive.
Adventure tourism group plans bike race in Haiti to raise awareness
Adventure tourists aren't looking for high thread count or luxury amenities when they pick where to go. Rather, they're looking for extremes. A New York man is trying to tap into that culture with an extreme bike ride across Haiti, which he hopes will promote tourism and raise awareness of the impoverished country.
Computer scientist stages play to illustrate risk of overpopulation
A London-based scientist at Microsoft, and professor at Oxford University, was distressed that we never get a complete picture of the risks of climate change. But rather than merely talk about it, he turned the issue into a play that he's been performing solo in London and abroad.
Research into genetic modification of trees may enable more deforestation
Scientists are studying how to genetically modify desirable trees in order to make them more commercially beneficial. They say it will allow us to grow more productive trees on less land, protecting natural forests -- but environmentalists say it will just increase deforestation by giving businesses something better to do with the land.
King County in Washington trying to convert sewage to energy
King County wants to make you a deal. They'll give you access to their sewage for free. You just have to do something with it. If this sounds like a bit of a raw deal, hang on. That sewage is actually warm, and could become a source for clean, renewable heat for buildings.
Sri Lankan scientists create renewable batteries powered by plantain trees
About a quarter of all people worldwide live without electricity. For them, evenings and nights are spent by candlelight or kerosene lamp. But a group of scientists in Sri Lanka say they have found a creative way to bring simple electric lighting to rural households.
Researcher says rising corn prices could spark global food riots
The United States is the largest producer of one of the most world's important crops: corn. We use it to feed people, livestock and, when it's turned into ethanol, cars. But as the country faces the worst drought in more than 50 years, some experts say the U.S. can no longer afford to turn that food into fuel.
China turns to fracking to help meet growing energy demand
Hydraulic fracturing has recently emerged as an alternative source of energy in the United States. Now China, the world's largest energy consumer, is experimenting with it. The Chinese government hopes the controversial technology will help wean the country off dirty coal.
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