In the UK, transport became the largest sectoral emitter of greenhouse gases in 2016, growing to account for 27 per cent of national emissions by 2019. This edition of the journal examines the need for and some of the components of a sustainable and decarbonised transport future and how they may work together. Read about vehicle and fuel options, the opportunities presented by 15-minute cities, how we can enable sustainable consumer behaviour change, air quality and health co-benefits of sustainable transport, a case study of the Solent future transport zone, and more. 

COP26 presented a potentially pivotal moment in the fight against climate change, bringing together global leaders to negotiate the new Glasgow Climate Pact. This edition of the journal considers climate change impacts and solutions across natural and human systems, and asks the question: has COP26 delivered? Articles examine the achievements and disappointments of the conference, the benefits of natural climate solutions, the powers and influence of local government, the critical role of the ocean in tackling climate change, and many more topics.

Animal migrations are spectacular phenomena that have fascinated humanity for millennia. They also play vital roles in ecosystem processes, transferring nutrients, carbon, energy and genes, and supporting cultural resources and traditions. However, migratory populations are in an alarming decline due to the manifold threats they face in our rapidly changing world. This issue of environmental SCIENTIST explores the complexities of animal migration and the actions needed to reverse declines in the numbers of terrestrial, marine and avian travellers making these impressive journeys. Read about the system considerations of migration, the importance of international cooperation for saiga antelope conservation, the fascinating multigenerational monarch butterfly migration, and initiatives to improve the future of the European eel.

We spend an average of 90 per cent of our time indoors, and good indoor air is paramount for our optimum health, wellbeing and productivity. However, indoor air is often contaminated with pollutants from indoor sources, as well as those that have migrated from outdoors, and thus may potentially present a greater risk to our health than outdoor air. This issue of the environmental SCIENTIST examines aspects that are important to understanding how to achieve good indoor air quality. Read about the importance of good indoor air, a monitoring campaign in nurseries and schools, and indoor air quality considerations for companies returning to the office following Covid-19.

From marine pollution to the unsustainable production of food and our changing climate, the wellbeing of people and the ocean is inextricably intertwined. The Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030) aims to provide a framework to generate the global ocean science needed for sustainable development of our shared ocean. This edition of the environmental SCIENTIST examines the 10 challenges of the Decade where efforts will be concentrated. Read about the impacts of climate change on coastal systems, actions needed for sustainable marine food production, building resilience to coastal hazards, and how marine professionals and coastal residents can work together to increase ocean literacy.