Researchers engineer bacteria that break down microplastics + 2 more stories

Today ChatGPT read 14197 top news stories. After removing previously covered events, there are 3 articles with a significance score over 5.8.

[5.9] University of Waterloo researchers develop bacteria to break down microplastics in wastewater — cbc.ca

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have engineered bacteria to break down microplastics found in wastewater. This new trait allows the bacteria to biodegrade polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a common plastic, potentially reducing microplastic pollution.

The study, published in Microbial Biotechnology, demonstrates that the engineered bacteria can degrade plastic by 40% in four days. Currently, the focus is on using these bacteria in wastewater treatment plants, where they can safely target microplastics before water is released into the environment.

[6.1] Qatar presents final ceasefire and hostage deal to Israel and Hamas — economictimes.indiatimes.com

Qatar has given Israel and Hamas a "final" draft for a ceasefire and hostage release to end the Gaza conflict. This draft follows extensive negotiations involving officials from Israel, the U.S., and Qatar.

The ceasefire talks progressed significantly after discussions among intelligence leaders and officials during a meeting in Doha. The White House said. U.S. officials are racing to reach a Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal before Biden leaves office on Jan. 20.

[5.8] UK government announces major investment in AI to boost public computing power — theguardian.com

The UK government, led by Keir Starmer, plans a major investment in AI to increase public computing power twentyfold by 2030. This initiative aims to enhance various sectors, from education to infrastructure maintenance, despite public concerns about AI's risks.

Starmer's action plan includes creating an AI growth zone in Oxfordshire and developing a national data library to support innovation. The government will also invest in new computing infrastructure, including a supercomputer designed to perform complex tasks rapidly.

The initiative marks a shift from previous government focus on AI risks to promoting its economic benefits. However, debates on the balance between innovation and public safety persist, emphasizing the need for careful implementation.

Highly covered news with significance over 5.4

[5.4] Biden enacts export controls on AI chips to restrict access for China
(ft.com + 21)

[5.4] Trump's policies raise global interest rates and strengthen US dollar
(smh.com.au + 10)

[5.4] China's trade surplus reaches record nearly $1 trillion in 2024
(ft.com + 23)

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