Here’s the inaugural edition of my new weekly segment, “Five Things We Learned This Week,” highlighting significant global events and discoveries from April 12–18, 2025.

🌍 1. Travel Disruptions Across Europe

Travelers in Europe faced significant disruptions due to widespread strikes. In France, the Sud Rail union initiated strikes affecting SNCF train controllers, with potential weekend service interruptions extending through June 2. In the UK, over 100 ground handling staff at Gatwick Airport began a strike on April 18, impacting airlines like Norwegian and Delta. Additionally, approximately 80,000 hospitality workers in Spain’s Canary Islands staged a two-day strike over pay disputes, affecting popular tourist destinations.  

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🧬 2. Potential Signs of Life on Exoplanet K2-18b

Astronomers detected large quantities of dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl disulfide in the atmosphere of K2-18b, a planet located 124 light-years away. On Earth, these compounds are typically produced by biological processes, making this the strongest evidence to date suggesting potential life beyond our solar system.  

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📉 3. Global Economic Concerns Amid Tariff Tensions

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the European Central Bank (ECB) warned of a slowdown in global economic growth due to escalating trade tensions, particularly from recent U.S. tariffs. The ECB responded by reducing its main interest rate for the seventh time this year, citing “exceptional uncertainty.” U.S. markets remain volatile, with the S&P 500 down 14% from February highs.   

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🌱 4. Earth Day 2025: “Our Power, Our Planet”

Earth Day on April 22 will spotlight the theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” emphasizing the push for renewable energy to triple clean electricity by 2030. Events worldwide aim to educate and mobilize communities toward sustainable practices and climate action.  

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🐺 5. Genetic Revival of Dire Wolf Traits

Colossal Biosciences announced the birth of genetically modified grey wolves named Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi. These wolves exhibit characteristics of the extinct dire wolf, marking a significant step in de-extinction science and raising discussions about the ethical implications of such genetic endeavors.  

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Stay tuned for next week’s edition as we continue to explore pivotal global developments. Question – Should I include a link to some source material with each item or is the summary what you are looking for?