Why has flooding become such a problem?
Did you know?
The Yellow River floods in China have killed millions
Unfortunately, flooding is simply a part of nature. One in six properties are at risk of flooding in England and Wales. Changes in our climate, such as more severe storms and wetter winters, will increase the risk of flooding in the future. There are a variety of ways to tackle flooding. Changes in land use, such as building houses or putting down concrete, can increase the risk of flooding. Because of this, the UK government’s Environment Agency advises against developments that will have an adverse affect on flooding.
When building flood defences, environment agencies look for ways to work with nature rather than against it.
Creating mudflats and salt marshes to store flood water can prevent flooding elsewhere, and this can also provide environmental benefits, such as creating new habitats for wildlife.
Individuals and communities also have a role to play in protecting themselves and their properties from flood risk.
DOES A METAL SPOON STOP SPARKLING WINE FROM GOING FLAT?
Mark Blackmore
This is a widespread myth, and has some variations: sometimes the spoon must be silver, but other times the material doesn’t matter. It’s unlikely that the spoon makes any difference. There’s some suggestion that the metal will absorb more heat energy and keep the air in the bottle colder, which may aid the preservation of the sparkle in your wine. The temperature is certainly important though. Colder liquids can hold more gas – in the case of sparkling wines, carbon dioxide
