The Know Daily - Thursday 6 March 2025

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Scientists have discovered some marine fungi are able to “eat” plastic and transform it into useful components for growth, saying it is a “promising and largely untapped” solution to plastic removal from our oceans. University of Hawaii researchers are continuing to explore how this relationship could be sped up and scaled globally.

🏢 Out of office

Micro-retirements are on the rise – here’s a breakdown of the popular trend.

What are they?
It’s when people take planned breaks from work throughout their careers – like a mini-retirement – rather than waiting until later in life to stop working. Micro-retiring can take many forms – it could see you taking a couple of months off, or even working for a few years and then having a year off to travel the world before continuing your career. It’s not a completely new term however, despite its current surge in popularity. The phrase first popped up in a book from 2007 called The 4-hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss.

What’s behind the popularity?
A bigger focus on wellbeing and a good work-life balance, particularly amongst younger people. Gen Z are interested in less traditional employment models, said a human resources specialist. A recent survey found that nearly half of respondents expect to work past the average retirement age, so they’re planning “periodic rest rather than deferring leisure to their later years”. Social media has also played a part in popularising the trend by amplifying the desire to create memorable experiences and pursue passion projects while still young and physically capable.

Is it actually feasible?
It’s definitely not for everyone, but with enough planning some are making it work. Today’s more flexible working environment means it’s easier to take career breaks. While this may be the case, it’s important to be prepared. Financial experts emphasise that debts should be paid off and individuals should put aside a “sizeable” amount of money to rely on. Plus, it’s key to have a longer-term financial plan in place and ensure that your micro-retirement is “meaningful and intentional, giving you clear metrics to measure success".

Plus, the rise of remote working means that a complete career break isn’t necessary for micro-retiring, as individuals can still choose to work part-time or project-based if they want to. 

🚆 Rail reliability: Starting this week, stations across the UK will display how often trains are delayed or cancelled. Rail operators will also provide information on what they're doing to improve services, with customers able to see how well their local stations are performing.

• The bigger story: The move is part of an effort by ministers to “increase transparency” and “marks the beginning of a new era of rail accountability”, said transport secretary Heidi Alexander.

🎶 Glastonbury 2025: After much anticipation, the headlining artists for this summer have been announced.

⚡ Energy connection: The UK and Ireland have announced a deal to collaborate on subsea energy infrastructure, in an effort to strengthen relations.

🥼 Infection protection: Scientists have discovered a novel part of the immune system and it’s “a goldmine for new antibiotics”.

⚽ Musical interlude: For the first time ever, the FIFA World Cup will include a half-time show in 2026.

🏛️ Royal residence: Roman emperor Nero’s lavish palace has reopened to the public viewings.

🍕 Perfect pizza: This is the best place in the world to grab a slice of pizza (or two), according to Time Out.

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Trivia answer: B) Skype is shutting down after operating for two decades – here’s why.

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