Caribbean year of tensions, culture and climate (English, Level A1)

A new president took office after a disputed election.
Tensions rose with a larger neighbour and the United States nearby.
Many musicians and writers won important regional and world awards.
One steelpan player set a very long playing world record.
Hotels and islands began using more solar and renewable power.
A strong hurricane caused serious damage in parts of the Caribbean.
Some Caribbean national teams qualified for the World Cup.
The region mourned many well-known cultural figures and artists.

Difficult words

dispute — a disagreement or argument between people or groups

disputed

tension — a nervous or unfriendly feeling between countries or groups

Tensions

renewable — energy from natural sources that do not run out

hurricane — a very strong storm with strong winds and rain

qualify — to reach the needed level to take part

qualified

mourn — to feel or show sadness after someone dies

mourned

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

15 Dec 2025

Healthy diets can cost less and cut emissions

A global study finds that healthy diets often cost less and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than many current diets. Researchers used local food data and diet targets to compare cost and climate impact.

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16 Dec 2025

Nanofiber air filter captures CO2 and cuts building energy use

A new carbon nanofiber air filter can capture CO2 from indoor air and fit existing HVAC systems. Tests and a life-cycle analysis show large potential for carbon removal and lower energy bills.

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1 Jan 2026

Table tennis players plant trees to help Safashahr

In Safashahr a local table tennis association links sport and nature. Players, families and residents planted drought‑resistant trees and ran volunteer campaigns to help a worsening water crisis. The group plans further action with local authorities.

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2 Oct 2025

Glacial Lakes and Flood Risk in the Hindu Kush–Himalaya

The Hindu Kush–Himalaya is losing ice and forming more glacial lakes. These lakes can feed rivers but also cause Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), threatening millions of people, villages and infrastructure in High Mountain Asia.

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17 Jul 2025

Abu Dhabi meeting between Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders

On July 10 the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia met in Abu Dhabi for the first direct talks. They discussed a peace deal, borders and a transport corridor, but many details stayed private.

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Caribbean year of tensions, culture and climate^{CEFR A1}

Difficult words

Discussion questions

Related articles

Healthy diets can cost less and cut emissions

Nanofiber air filter captures CO2 and cuts building energy use

Table tennis players plant trees to help Safashahr

Glacial Lakes and Flood Risk in the Hindu Kush–Himalaya

Abu Dhabi meeting between Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders

Caribbean year of tensions, culture and climate CEFR A1

Difficult words

Discussion questions

Related articles

Healthy diets can cost less and cut emissions

Nanofiber air filter captures CO2 and cuts building energy use

Table tennis players plant trees to help Safashahr

Glacial Lakes and Flood Risk in the Hindu Kush–Himalaya

Abu Dhabi meeting between Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders

Caribbean year of tensions, culture and climate^{CEFR A1}