U.N. adopts first-ever treaty to govern the lawless high seas
The high seas treaty, once ratified by individual nations, will govern the use of international waters in a bid to protect ecosystems and head off disputes.
Pollution
How poor air quality impacts your health
Here's what to know about the health effects of wildfire smoke as it continues to infiltrate the U.S.
Wildfire smokes pushes NYC to second-worst air quality worldwide
The air quality in New York City on Wednesday morning is 14.5 times the World Health Organization's annual air quality guideline value.
Trucker detained after a "weird" potato spill on a key Denmark bridge
Officials say it "looks weird," and could have been an accident - or a protest over new environmental restrictions on diesel trucks hauling heavy loads.
Stretch of Venice's Grand Canal mysteriously turns bright green
Police were investigating the unexplained discoloration spotted near the iconic Rialto Bridge, amid speculation about a possible stunt by environmentalists.
Meet the startup "growing" mushroom caskets and urns
Cemeteries are known to potentially contaminate soil and water, and cremation can unleash pollutants in the air. A new startup says mushrooms could be the key to "a new story."
Synthetic rubber plant in focus amid Louisiana community's high cancer risk
According to the EPA, cancer risk in the community of Reserve is about 50 times the national average.
Toxic "forever chemicals" found in U.S. farmland soil
One family had to give up their dreams of an organic farm in Maine after discovering the land they bought had been contaminated years earlier.
China's ongoing "coal boom" risks "climate disasters," Greenpeace says
New approvals for coal-fired power plants are fueling concern that China will backtrack on its goal to peak emissions by 2030.
Coastal species living in Great Pacific Garbage Patch in middle of the ocean
Coastal species have been found living on the Great Pacific Garbage Patch in the middle of the ocean, according to a study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution journal.
The future of energy in America
After decades of promises and disappointments -- renewable energy sources are finally taking hold in America. Vijay Vaitheeswaran, the global energy and climate innovation editor for The Economist, joined Prime Time to discuss what the future holds.
EPA proposal seeks to increase EV production
The Biden administration on Wednesday proposed strict new tailpipe pollution standards that would effectively force auto manufacturers to accelerate their production of electric vehicles. Under the EPA's proposal, 67% of all vehicles manufactured in the U.S. would be electric by 2032. Ben Tracy has the details.
1,736 "disadvantaged communities" getting a climate aid boost in New York
New York's Climate Act – said to be "the most aggressive climate and clean energy initiative in the nation" – will ensure "those most vulnerable to recurrent extreme weather events" get prioritized, leaders say.
Time to "defuse the climate time bomb" running out fast, U.N. warns
"Humanity is on thin ice, and that ice is melting fast," the U.N. chief said, calling a new report on the rate of climate change "a survival guide for humanity."
Research finds "plastic smog" of 171 trillion tiny particles in oceans
The organization behind the study said it highlights "the need for legally binding agreements" to hold companies to account "for the entire life of the things they make."
"Disgusting" waterway seen near derailment
"It's disgusting": A local woman visited a waterway not far from the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio — and said she found dead fish and other signs that something wasn't right.
Vinyl chloride's potential impact goes beyond Ohio train derailment
The Ohio train derailment is a "wake-up call" for the reality of vinyl chloride's role in human and environmental health, experts say.
Sections of Balkan river have become a floating garbage dump
Heavy rain and unseasonably warm weather over the past week have caused many rivers and streams in Bosnia, Serbia and Montenegro to overflow.
Eating one U.S. fish likened to drinking month's worth of tainted water
Researchers say it's the equivalent of drinking a month's worth of water contaminated with toxic "forever chemicals" known as PFAS.
"On the Dot" web extra: Environmental justice
Davida Herzl's company, Aclima, operates a fleet of cars outfitted with tubes and sensors that analyze the air for 14 kinds of pollution.
Lava, vog and "Pele's hair": The hazards posed by Hawaii's volcano eruption
State health officials are urging people to cut back on outdoor exercise and other activities that cause heavy breathing, but no evacuation orders have been issued for now.
California lake's water supply low amid drought
As the West Coast continues to experience historical droughts, one of California’s key water reserves, Lake Shasta, is at a criticially low level. CBS Bay Area’s Wilson Walker has the details.
Toxic smog turns India's capital "into a gas chamber"
The annual blanket of air pollution hanging over Delhi is due to a confluence of factors, but it's a serious health threat, and it's getting worse.
Melting arctic ice explored in documentary
This year has been one for the books when it comes to climate extremes. In Greenland, where temperatures are rising four times faster than the global average, arctic ice is melting fast. Veteran journalist Mary Kay Magistad, now with the Asia Society, and producer David Gelber of The Years Project went there for a documentary, and Magistad joined CBS News to discuss.
Whales off the California coast consume up to 10 million microplastics every day, study finds
A new study found that blue whales off California's coast are consuming about 10,000,000 pieces of microplastics every day — an amount that could be potentially toxic to the whales and other animals that end up with the pollutants in their systems.
Toy industry bracing for impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that his pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
Baby found abandoned on street near Denver on Christmas morning, parents arrested
Two people have been arrested and are facing charges of felony child abuse after a one-month-old baby was discovered in the median of a road Christmas morning.
Girl, 8, missing, father dead after SUV swept away by Texas floodwaters
The tragic incident on Tuesday when her family's SUV left the roadway, got caught in a drainage ditch near U.S. 75 and Taylor Street, and was carried away by strong currents.
Plane crash in Kazakhstan killed dozens but many on board survived, officials say
Mobile phone footage circulating online appeared to show the Azerbaijani aircraft making a steep descent before slamming into the ground in a fireball.
6 hurt when taxi hits pedestrians in NYC's Herald Square
Six people were hurt including a young boy when a taxi hit pedestrians in NYC's Herald Square on Christmas Day.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
4 dead in New Hampshire from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning
Four people were found dead on Christmas in Wakefield, New Hampshire from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, the fire marshal said.
U.S.
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3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
The toy industry is bracing for the impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that Trump's pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
MoneyWatch
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The toy industry is bracing for the impact of Trump's promised tariffs
Toy stores and the toy industry are warning that Trump's pledge to add tariffs to Chinese imports could harm their businesses.
Pet food brand issues recall over bird flu contamination
A voluntary recall was issued for a line of raw and frozen pet food after a cat died of bird flu.
Lawyers for ex-Abercrombie CEO say he has dementia, can't stand trial
Defense lawyers say the former longtime CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch may have dementia, prompting a competency hearing.
Is anything open on Christmas Day? Here's what's open and closed.
Last-minute grocery items and gifts can be found on Christmas Day, but many retailers and chains may be closed today.
Starbucks strike shuts down hundreds of locations
More than 5,000 workers were expected to take part in walkout that ends later on Christmas Eve, their union says.
Politics
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Trial of man accused in Trump assassination attempt in Florida pushed back
Ryan Wesley Routh is being held in Miami awaiting trial in Fort Pierce.
With Biden's signature, bald eagle officially America's bird
President Biden signed legislation Christmas Eve to make the bald eagle officially the U.S. national bird.
Biden signs 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve
Among the new laws signed by President Biden are Paris Hilton's bill to protect institutionalized teenagers and a bill to address hazing on college campuses.
Bill Clinton discharged from hospital after being treated for flu
Former President Bill Clinton was released from a hospital in Washington. D.C., on Christmas Eve, following an overnight stay for treatment of a fever and flu.
Biden signs defense bill, despite ban on transgender health care for military kids
President Biden has signed the annual defense authorization bill into law.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Why some children are turning to GLP-1 drugs
A growing number of young people are receiving prescriptions for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Janet Shamlian examines why.
FDA raises urgency of Costco egg recall
The FDA has raised the level of a Costco egg recall, warning of the risk of severe illness or death due to potential salmonella contamination. Over 10,000 cartons of Kirkland brand organic eggs sold at stores across the South are affected. Customers are urged to discard or return eggs marked with Julian code 327 and a use-by date of Jan. 5, 2025.
Expert tips to support your immune system
With flu levels rising, Dr. Rabia De Latour shares ways to support your immune system and stay healthy during the holidays.
How to stay healthy during holiday gatherings
Seasonal illnesses are increasing just days away from the holidays. The CDC reports positive flu tests are up 9% in the most recent week and cases of whooping cough are six times last year's rate. Dr. Susannah Hills, an ear, nose and throat specialist at Columbia University Medical Center, explains how to stay safe.
Health care AI, intended to save money, requires expensive humans
Despite the hype over artificial intelligence in medicine, the systems require consistent monitoring and staffing to put in place and maintain.
World
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What is Boxing Day? All about the celebration's origin and traditions
Boxing Day 2024 is here, but not all Americans understand the meaning of the holiday celebrated in countries like the U.K. and Canada.
Over 100 migrants rescued trying to cross English Channel on Christmas
At least 73 migrants have died trying to cross the English Channel to Britain this year, according to French authorities, making 2024 the deadliest year on record for the crossings.
347 skiers rescued by helicopter in French Alps
Chairlifts at two different resorts in the French Alps broke down on Tuesday, stranding hundreds in two separate incidents.
Royal family celebrates Christmas with no sign of Prince Andrew
King Charles III was joined at Christmas services by close members of the royal family, including Prince William and Kate — but Prince Andrew was notably absent.
Bridge collapse in Brazil leaves at least 2 dead, dozen missing
A bridge linking two northern states in Brazil collapsed, sending cars and trucks plunging into the river below. A sulphuric acid spill is complicating the rescue operation.
Entertainment
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Beyoncé's halftime show the highlight of a lackluster NFL Christmas slate
Beyoncé surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform "Sweet Honey Buckiin," and Post Malone joined her for "Levii's Jeans."
Angel Blue on Met role debut in "Aida" and Opera journey
Angel Blue, who was recently named Classical Music's "Vocalist of the Year," is set to perform the title role in "Aida" at the Metropolitan Opera. Known for her Grammy-winning performances, Blue will take the stage in New York beginning on Dec. 31. She joins "CBS Mornings Plus."
Netflix carrying 2 NFL games on Christmas Day. It's a big step.
Netflix will have one of its biggest days Wednesday since the site launched in 1998 when it airs two NFL games for the first time.
Prosecutor drops appeal, ending case against Alec Baldwin in "Rust" shooting
The appeal had asked the court to reinstate charges, including involuntary manslaughter, against Alec Baldwin.
Denzel Washington gets minister's license at Harlem church
Just shy of his 70th birthday, Denzel Washington has a new line to add to an already impressive résumé.
Technology
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Technology
AI features dominating tech heading into 2025
New artificial intelligence features appeared across the tech landscape this year, from the latest iPhone to chatbots like Google's Gemini. Adam Auriemma, the editor-in-chief at CNET, joins CBS News 24/7 with more.
Researchers develop robot to help people walk
A robotic exosuit may seem like science fiction, but a team of South Korean researchers is turning the concept into reality. CBS News' Leah Mishkin explains how the new tech is helping people with disabilities walk on their own.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Holiday shoppers on the lookout for big TVs
TVs are some of the most popular items to fly off store shelves during the holidays. But this year, experts say shoppers are going bigger than ever. CBS News' Jeff Wagner explains.
Health care AI, intended to save money, requires expensive humans
Despite the hype over artificial intelligence in medicine, the systems require consistent monitoring and staffing to put in place and maintain.
Science
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Orca who carried her dead calf for 17 days has a new baby
Tahlequah has a newborn girl, years after she made headlines for carrying her dead calf for 17 days.
2,600-year-old shipwreck is raised from waters off Spain
An ancient shipwreck that dates back to the 7th century B.C.E. has been removed from waters off Spain, two decades after its discovery in 1994.
What to know about the winter solstice, 2024's shortest day
The 2024 winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, happens on Saturday, Dec. 21, and is marked with traditions and celebrations around the world.
Class-action lawsuit over plastic recycling
This week a group of plaintiffs in Missouri, Kansas, California and Florida filed a class-action lawsuit against dozens of companies and organizations, claiming they've falsely promoted how easy it is to recycle plastics. CBS News Los Angeles climatologist Marina Jurica has the details.
Why fish, birds and other animals yawn too, according to an expert
Humans aren't alone when it comes to yawning — all vertebrates do it. But why? An expert explains the likely reason behind this "evolutionarily ancient" act.
Crime
More Crime
3 shot, 1 stabbed in Christmas night dispute at Phoenix airport, police say
Gunfire rang out at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Christmas night and left three people wounded, police say. Another was stabbed. One was in critical condition.
Prison guard dead after Christmas morning assault by inmate, officials say
A corrections officer died after an assault by an inmate in an Ohio prison on Christmas morning, authorities say.
Backpacks full of $1.1 million worth of cocaine found near Canada border
Agents found 30 brick-like packages of cocaine inside the backpacks, located in a wooded area in Washington near the U.S. border with Canada.
"Desperate" killer who escaped from Mississippi prison is recaptured
Authorities in Mississippi say a "desperate" and "very dangerous" convicted murderer, Drew Johnson, is back in custody after escaping from prison Tuesday.
Former Philadelphia Eagles running back pleads guilty to fraud charges
Former Philadelphia Eagles running back Wendell Smallwood Jr. pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges.
Space
More Space
Discovery of "tipped over" black hole surprises NASA scientists
New analysis techniques and decades-old research helped NASA scientists identify an unusual black hole in a distant galaxy.
Why are the Boeing Starliner astronauts stuck in space?
Here's why NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are stuck, but not stranded, at the International Space Station after launching into space in June.
NASA delayes return date for astronauts
NASA has delayed the return date for Boeing's Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez reports on the decision to keep the two in space.
NASA leader weighs in on Elon Musk, SpaceX and plans for moon rocket
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson says he's optimistic the Trump administration will support the space agency's agenda.
Boeing Starliner crew's return delayed again
Two astronauts who have been stuck in space since June will have to wait until at least the end of March to come home after NASA on Wednesday again pushed back their return date. Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer for the Franklin Institute, joined CBS News to discuss what's causing the delays.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The Scott Peterson case: New evidence?
Peterson's death sentence for the murder of his pregnant wife Laci has been overturned. Now his supporters are pushing for a complete retrial.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Texas couple investigates teen daughter's unusual death
Cayley Mandadi's mother and stepfather go to extreme lengths to prove her death was no accident.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
NYC taxi plows into crowd outside Macy's
A taxi driver lost control and drove into a crowd outside Macy's in New York City on Christmas Day, injuring six people, including a 9-year-old boy and his mother. Authorities believe the driver suffered a medical emergency. All victims are expected to survive.
Recall issued for popular cat food
Northwest Naturals' Feline Turkey Recipe Raw Frozen Pet Food has been recalled after a cat in Oregon died from bird flu. The product, sold in 12 U.S. states and Canada, has not been linked to any human cases of bird flu.
Academy teaches students the art of playing Santa
Twice a year, between 100 and 150 student Santas and Mrs. Clauses from as far away as Europe enroll at the Northern Lights Santa Academy in Atlanta for a three-day boot camp where they will learn to become professional Christmas entertainers. Skyler Henry has details.
In show of unity, 4 pastors swap congregations
In Midland, Texas, four pastors from different denominations decided to exchange pulpits for one day in order to deliver a message about tolerance and acceptance to their congregations and the community. Jason Allen has more.
Celebrating the holidays around the globe
Jericka Duncan takes a look at how Christmas and Hanukkah are being marked around the world and even aboard the International Space Station.