Should Everest be closed?

Tourism is turning the world's highest peak into its biggest rubbish dump, claim conservationists, who are pressing for controls on climbing. But will this cost sherpas their livelihood? Dan McDougall in Kathmandu reports on the campaign.

Sound the alarm

There is growing evidence that noise pollution is not only a nuisance but also can have a serious effect on people's health.

The natural selection

Over 1000 chemicals currently available to manufacturers of cosmetics and toiletries are suspected to have harmful effects.

Super rats!

Reports are coming in of giant rats that are immune to poison and have lost their fear of man. Is a new breed evolving on Britain's rubbish-strewn streets? Patrick Barkham investigates.

Boiled alive

The 2003 heatwave killed more than 30,000 people. It was the biggest natural disaster in Europe on record, according to the government's chief scientific adviser. And yet, as temperatures reach new highs, Britain is fretting about dried-out lawns and stuffy offices. Alok Jha looks at the dangers that really lie ahead - and how to survive them.

Keep your cool

This could be the hottest day ever recorded in Britain. But how can you escape the heat without turning on the air conditioning - and warming the planet even more? Dominic Murphy offers some tips on how to stay chilled with a clear conscience.

Think before you drink

As Britain staggers through another long, hot summer, our consumption of mineral water is set to break all records. We do need a lot of water to stay healthy - but does it have to come out of a bottle? Aida Edemariam reports