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Bosses don’t like the sound of a ‘four-day workweek’. Maybe it’s time to rebrand it

Bosses don’t like the sound of a ‘four-day workweek’. Maybe it’s time to rebrand it

April 26, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Many companies and countries are trying the idea of a four-day workweek, where employees work less but get paid the same. However, many employers resist this idea because it feels unfair to pay full wages for fewer hours, and the term “four-day workweek” carries negative feelings. Some suggest changing the name to focus on results and pay tied to performance instead.

Key Facts

  • Belgium, Iceland, and Lithuania have passed laws requiring a four-day workweek.
  • Hundreds of UK companies are testing the four-day workweek.
  • Microsoft tried the four-day workweek in Japan.
  • Some organizations promote the four-day week, such as the 4 Day Week Foundation and WorkFour.
  • Many business leaders do not support the four-day workweek because they see it as unfair to employers.
  • AI industry leaders believe AI will reduce the need for long workweeks in the future.
  • Currently, some employers offer flexible schedules, long shifts, or more paid time off, which is similar to a four-day workweek.
  • The phrase “four-day workweek” is often seen negatively and rebranding it might help adoption.
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Guardian US Guardian Business
Ryanair to shut Berlin base as it blames rise in German aviation tax

Ryanair to shut Berlin base as it blames rise in German aviation tax

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Ryanair will close its Berlin base and cut flights to the city by half because of higher aviation taxes in Germany. The airline is moving seven aircraft to other locations, reducing passengers served in Berlin from 4.5 million to 2.2 million per year.

Key Facts

  • Ryanair is shutting its Berlin operating base and reducing winter flights to Berlin by 50%.
  • The airline is relocating seven aircraft from Berlin to other centers in Europe.
  • Ryanair blames rising German aviation taxes and high airport fees for the decision.
  • Since 2019, Ryanair has closed bases in Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, and Stuttgart and stopped flights to other German cities.
  • German trade union Verdi criticized Ryanair for focusing on profit and treating workers poorly.
  • Jet fuel prices have more than doubled since February due to conflicts in the Gulf region, increasing costs for airlines.
  • The airline industry faces challenges with fuel shortages and rising prices, causing potential flight cancellations.
  • Some experts suggest rail travel could benefit from Ryanair’s reduced presence in Berlin, as trains connect Berlin to many European cities.
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Guardian World
Artist Jenny Saville on the body as landscape

Artist Jenny Saville on the body as landscape

April 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Artist Jenny Saville is known for her large, vivid portraits of the human body, often focusing on women and themes like motherhood. Her work has gained major recognition since the 1990s, selling for millions, and she continues to exhibit new paintings, including a recent show in Venice.

Key Facts

  • Jenny Saville creates large portraits emphasizing the human body, often using paint to create a glowing, lifelike effect.
  • Her breakthrough artwork was a self-portrait called "Propped" from the early 1990s, which sold for over $12 million.
  • Collector Charles Saatchi discovered her work at art school and commissioned pieces like her triptych "Strategy (South Face/Front Face/North Face)."
  • Saville's art often explores the body in a way that relates it to nature rather than objectifies it.
  • Her painting "Planned" shows a torso marked for liposuction, inspired by plastic surgery methods.
  • She has focused on female subjects and themes such as motherhood, expressing growth and abundance.
  • A major retrospective at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth showcased over 30 years of her paintings.
  • Despite her commercial success, Saville emphasizes that creating art is separate from its market value, and she finds it absurd to equate paintings with the price of a house.
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CBS News
Why are people pumping their bodies with fat from corpses? | Tayo Bero

Why are people pumping their bodies with fat from corpses? | Tayo Bero

April 26, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Some people are using fat taken from dead bodies as injectable fillers to reshape their bodies without surgery. This new cosmetic procedure is growing in popularity, especially among busy professionals who want quick results without downtime.

Key Facts

  • Fat from donated corpses is collected by tissue banks and processed for cosmetic use.
  • The procedure does not require surgery or general anesthesia and has a short recovery time.
  • Some companies say they have consent from donors specifically for cosmetic use of their tissue.
  • This method is attracting wealthy people wanting to improve their appearance quickly, often fitting treatments into their workday.
  • The fat injections are used to enhance areas like pecs, breasts, and buttocks.
  • New weight-loss drugs cause some users to seek these fillers to restore fat in certain areas.
  • The practice raises ethical questions about donor awareness and how donated tissue is used.
  • The trend reflects societal concerns about ageing and appearance, with a large anti-ageing industry.
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Guardian US
NatWest faces AGM showdown over climate backtracking

NatWest faces AGM showdown over climate backtracking

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

NatWest faces criticism from investors and scientists at its upcoming shareholder meeting for weakening its climate policies, especially its rules on lending to oil and gas companies. Campaigners want the bank to reverse these changes and meet with investors to discuss its climate strategy.

Key Facts

  • NatWest changed its climate policy by loosening limits on loans to oil and gas companies and dropping some cleaning-up targets.
  • Campaign group ShareAction and investors holding $1.4 trillion in assets, including the Church of England, are asking shareholders to oppose some board members.
  • 70 climate experts signed a letter urging NatWest to lead on climate and undo the policy rollbacks.
  • The bank removed a promise not to finance oil and gas firms without proper climate transition plans or full emissions reporting.
  • NatWest also stopped its commitment to not fund companies with oil and gas assets mostly outside the UK.
  • The bank says it still aims to reduce its climate impact by half compared to 2019 and reach net zero emissions by 2050.
  • NatWest claims the policy updates reflect changes in regulation and focus on areas where it can make the biggest difference.
  • ShareAction warns that weakening climate pledges risks worsening the climate crisis and harming the economy.
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Guardian World
UK departments at odds over energy demands of AI datacentres

UK departments at odds over energy demands of AI datacentres

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Two UK government departments disagree on how much electricity AI datacentres will use by 2030. The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) predicts AI datacentres will consume 6 gigawatts (GW), while the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) estimates less than one-tenth of that amount. This disagreement highlights challenges in planning for energy use and emissions as the UK aims to grow its AI sector while meeting climate goals.

Key Facts

  • DSIT expects AI datacentres to need 6GW of electricity by 2030.
  • DESNZ forecasts the growth in energy use for the entire commercial services sector to be 528 megawatts (MW) between 2025 and 2030, much lower than DSIT’s figure for AI datacentres alone.
  • The UK government plans to build AI growth zones, each requiring about 500MW of electricity.
  • DSIT revised its estimate of AI datacentres’ carbon emissions upwards from below 0.05% to 0.9-3.4% of the UK's projected emissions over ten years.
  • DESNZ says datacentre emissions are included in the government's official carbon budget plans, with a new carbon budget release expected soon.
  • An NGO, Foxglove, raised concerns about the environmental impact of datacentres and the government’s awareness.
  • The discrepancy between the two departments’ figures is unclear, causing uncertainty in UK energy and climate planning.
  • The AI Energy Council is working on attracting investment and supporting clean power development for datacentres.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
I own 20 axolotls - people need to know they're not easy to look after

I own 20 axolotls - people need to know they're not easy to look after

April 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A family in Wales owns 20 axolotls, amphibians that have become popular pets due to their appearance and presence in video games. Experts warn that axolotls are endangered and require careful care to thrive, so people should research before buying one.

Key Facts

  • Emma Honeyfield and her daughter Amber own 20 axolotls, starting from one birthday gift.
  • Axolotls are critically endangered amphibians native to lakes and wetlands near Mexico City.
  • Their popularity has grown partly because of their cute look and appearances in games like Minecraft and Roblox.
  • Axolotls can live up to 20 years and need specific care, including tanks with beneficial bacteria before adding the animals.
  • Experts and rescue centers caution buyers to fully understand axolotls’ needs to avoid harming them.
  • In the UK, a rare wild axolotl was spotted near the River Ogmore, a unique documented sighting.
  • Some pet shops may provide incomplete or incorrect information about axolotl care, increasing health risks for the animals.
  • Owners recommend joining online groups and doing thorough research before purchasing an axolotl.
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BBC Top Stories
Ghost MOTs: drivers warned over fake certificates that lead to huge repair bills

Ghost MOTs: drivers warned over fake certificates that lead to huge repair bills

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Some drivers in the UK have been sold cars with fake MOT certificates, meaning the vehicles were never properly tested for safety. These "ghost MOTs" can lead to dangerous faults being missed and costly repairs later.

Key Facts

  • An MOT is a safety test for most vehicles older than three years, done at authorized garages.
  • A "ghost MOT" happens when a garage or mechanic records a car as passed without actually inspecting it.
  • Faults like worn tyres, brakes, or lights may be missed if a fake MOT is issued.
  • The scam can happen if a dealer or mechanic pays for a false pass or if a garage does not do the test but logs a pass.
  • Fixing hidden problems found after a fake MOT can be expensive and increase accident risks.
  • Insurance may refuse claims if a car with a fake MOT is in an accident.
  • Drivers are advised to use trusted garages that explain the MOT process and do tests properly.
  • The UK's Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) can be contacted to report suspicious MOT certificates or garages.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
‘Sludge in the system’: myriad problems stymie Labour’s 1.5m new homes pledge

‘Sludge in the system’: myriad problems stymie Labour’s 1.5m new homes pledge

April 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The UK government has promised to build 1.5 million new homes, but so far, progress is slow. Although many young people want to work in construction, there are not enough apprenticeships and hands-on opportunities to get them into the job market.

Key Facts

  • The government aims to build 1.5 million new homes to address the housing crisis.
  • In the first 18 months of the current parliament, just over 300,000 homes were built, which is below the needed pace.
  • There are about 140,000 construction job vacancies in 2025, with many workers expected to retire by 2035.
  • More than 62,500 adults enrolled in construction courses in England last year, making it the fastest-growing adult education field.
  • Informal construction training without official qualifications has also doubled in recent years.
  • Despite high demand from students, only 24,500 people started construction apprenticeships last year—still not enough to meet industry needs.
  • Colleges report many young people want to work in construction but face barriers due to a lack of apprenticeship opportunities.
  • The industry struggles more with providing job opportunities than with finding skilled young people.
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Guardian World
We thought Gen Z weren't drinking. But these cocktails in a ball may suggest otherwise

We thought Gen Z weren't drinking. But these cocktails in a ball may suggest otherwise

April 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Canned and bottled pre-mixed cocktails like BuzzBallz are becoming popular among young people in the UK, especially Generation Z. Sales of these sweet, colorful drinks have risen significantly, and many young adults appreciate their convenience and taste despite some mixed opinions.

Key Facts

  • Pre-mixed bottled and canned cocktails sales in the UK rose by 30% in the year to March 2026 compared to the previous year.
  • A 2025 survey found 43% of UK Gen Z had drunk a pre-mixed canned cocktail in the past six months, higher than the 26% for the overall UK population.
  • BuzzBallz, known for their ball-shaped containers and strong sweetness, are popular at student parties and among young adults.
  • Young people like these drinks because they are easy to carry and can be consumed on public transport or in taxis.
  • Some students drink these cocktails for their sugary taste and novelty, sometimes joking about being "obsessed" with them.
  • The alcohol content in these drinks is around 13.5%, similar to wine, but the sweetness masks the strength.
  • Not all young people like the flavor; some find these pre-mixed drinks too sweet or "gross."
  • This trend follows a long history of sweet alcoholic drinks (alcopops) aimed at younger drinkers but has grown with social media exposure, especially TikTok.
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BBC Top Stories
How the AI-driven data center boom is leading to skyrocketing energy bills

How the AI-driven data center boom is leading to skyrocketing energy bills

April 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Energy bills in Georgia have nearly doubled in two years, partly due to new data centers that use a lot of electricity. These centers came to the state for cheaper power, but their large energy use is causing higher costs for regular customers.

Key Facts

  • Georgia Power raised electricity rates six times in the last three years.
  • The Vogtle nuclear power plant began operating during this time.
  • Many new data centers appeared in Georgia, attracted by discounted electricity.
  • Data centers use large amounts of energy, increasing overall utility costs.
  • People in some U.S. states near data centers pay much higher electric bills than five years ago.
  • Maine’s governor vetoed a bill that would have banned new data centers to study their impact first.
  • Georgia Power says it won’t pass data center costs to residential customers and has agreed to use revenue from big users to lower rates.
  • Some residents in Georgia are struggling with energy bills and reducing heating and water use to save money.
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CBS News
How high energy bills, driven by new data centers, are affecting average Americans

How high energy bills, driven by new data centers, are affecting average Americans

April 25, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Maine’s governor vetoed a bill that aimed to stop the building of new data centers in the state. The bill was introduced because growing data centers are causing higher energy bills for many people.

Key Facts

  • Maine’s governor vetoed a bill to ban new data centers.
  • The bill would have made Maine the first state to ban building new data centers.
  • Data centers use a lot of electricity, which raises energy costs.
  • Higher energy bills are affecting average Americans living in the area.
  • The debate involves balancing economic growth from data centers with rising energy expenses.
  • The story was reported by CBS News and Shanelle Kaul.
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CBS News
California seeing higher jet fuel prices, experts predict troubled skies for summer travelers

California seeing higher jet fuel prices, experts predict troubled skies for summer travelers

April 25, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Jet fuel prices are rising in California, causing airlines to face higher costs. Experts say these increases could lead to more problems for people traveling by air this summer.

Key Facts

  • Jet fuel prices are going up in California.
  • Airlines worldwide are dealing with higher expenses.
  • Much of the price increase is linked to the conflict with Iran.
  • Airlines are taking special steps to continue flying and staying in business.
  • Higher fuel costs may cause travel difficulties for summer passengers.
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CBS News
Iran war throttles global fluoride supply, impacting US waterworks

Iran war throttles global fluoride supply, impacting US waterworks

April 25, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The war in Iran is disrupting the global supply of fluoride, a chemical used to prevent tooth decay in water supplies. As a result, some local governments in the U.S. are reducing their use of fluoride in water treatment.

Key Facts

  • The conflict in Iran is causing problems in the global supply chain for fluoride.
  • Fluoride is commonly added to public water systems to help prevent cavities.
  • Two major water systems in Maryland, serving Baltimore and nearby Washington D.C., recently announced temporary reductions in fluoride use.
  • These shortages affect local water treatment plants’ ability to maintain usual fluoride levels.
  • The disruption is due to difficulties in sourcing fluoride linked to the Iran war.
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The Hill
Steak ‘n Shake’s new chief MAHA officer: We’re going ‘back to the glory days of fast food’

Steak ‘n Shake’s new chief MAHA officer: We’re going ‘back to the glory days of fast food’

April 25, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Steak ‘n Shake is changing its food ingredients and how it cooks to match the health goals promoted by President Trump’s administration. The company’s new chief Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) officer, Michael Boes, said this effort aims to bring back the quality and popularity the fast food chain once had.

Key Facts

  • Steak ‘n Shake is updating its ingredients and cooking methods.
  • The changes follow the health agenda of President Donald Trump’s administration.
  • Michael Boes is the new chief Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) officer at Steak ‘n Shake.
  • The company wants to restore the "glory days" of fast food quality.
  • This revamp was announced publicly on a Saturday.
  • The move highlights a focus on healthier fast food options.
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The Hill
McDonald’s is putting ‘badges’ next to certain menu items: What do they mean?

McDonald’s is putting ‘badges’ next to certain menu items: What do they mean?

April 25, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

McDonald’s is adding badges next to some menu items to help customers understand their choices more easily. The badges aim to make ordering simpler, but some people have questions about what the badges mean.

Key Facts

  • McDonald’s introduced a badge system on its menu.
  • Badges appear next to certain food items.
  • The purpose is to make ordering clearer and simpler for customers.
  • The badge meanings are causing some questions among customers.
  • The article does not specify what each badge represents.
  • This change is part of McDonald’s effort to improve customer experience.
  • The badge system could influence how customers select their food.
  • McDonald’s is a major global fast-food company.
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The Hill
Four delivery drivers' associations sue Uber and Deliveroo for human trafficking

Four delivery drivers' associations sue Uber and Deliveroo for human trafficking

April 25, 2026 • France24

Summary

Four delivery drivers' associations in France have filed a criminal complaint accusing Uber Eats and Deliveroo of human trafficking. The complaint says these companies profit by exploiting delivery workers.

Key Facts

  • The complaint was filed by four French delivery driver associations.
  • They accuse Uber Eats and Deliveroo of human trafficking.
  • The accusation claims the companies exploit workers to make large profits.
  • Uber Eats and Deliveroo are popular food delivery platforms.
  • The legal action took place in France.
  • The complaint is criminal, meaning it involves serious law violations.
  • The case focuses on the treatment and rights of delivery drivers.
  • This is part of broader concerns about gig economy worker conditions.
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France24
Chef Nick Kennedy on creating a dining destination in Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood

Chef Nick Kennedy on creating a dining destination in Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood

April 25, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Chef Nick Kennedy started Defined Hospitality to build a stronger dining scene in the Fishtown neighborhood of Philadelphia. His group now owns seven bars and restaurants there.

Key Facts

  • Chef Nick Kennedy is focused on improving dining options in Fishtown, Philadelphia.
  • He created Defined Hospitality to manage his restaurant businesses.
  • Defined Hospitality owns seven bars and restaurants in the Fishtown area.
  • The goal is to make Fishtown a popular place to eat and drink.
  • Kennedy’s work helps support the local community through food and hospitality.
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CBS News
How one woman brought her small South Carolina town back to life with an art festival

How one woman brought her small South Carolina town back to life with an art festival

April 25, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Darla Moore, a billionaire from Lake City, South Carolina, created ArtFields, an art festival that helps bring new life and visitors to her small hometown. The festival celebrates Southern art and history and has become an important event for the community.

Key Facts

  • Darla Moore is from Lake City, South Carolina.
  • She is a billionaire.
  • Moore started ArtFields, an art festival.
  • The festival focuses on Southern art and history.
  • ArtFields helps revitalize Lake City by attracting visitors.
  • The event turns the town into a cultural center during the festival.
  • ArtFields supports local artists and the economy.
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CBS News
California’s jet fuel supply drops to three-year low as Middle East turmoil squeezes global oil market

California’s jet fuel supply drops to three-year low as Middle East turmoil squeezes global oil market

April 25, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

California’s supply of jet fuel has fallen to a three-year low, reaching just over 2.6 million barrels in April 2026. This drop is linked to global oil market disruptions caused by conflict in the Middle East, which has also caused jet fuel prices to more than double in some areas.

Key Facts

  • California’s jet fuel stock was 2.6 million barrels in April 2026, down from 3.2 million barrels two years earlier.
  • In 2025, 61.1% of California’s oil came from foreign sources, mainly Asian refiners.
  • The US and Israel are involved in a conflict with Iran, disrupting Middle Eastern oil supplies, especially through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Jet fuel prices in major US cities were around $2.30 a gallon early in 2026 but rose to an average of $4.19 by late April.
  • At Los Angeles International Airport, jet fuel recently cost nearly $15 a gallon.
  • Airlines such as Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue have increased baggage fees and introduced fuel surcharges due to higher fuel costs.
  • Experts expect some less profitable short-haul flights may be canceled, even though demand for travel remains strong.
  • California’s energy commission is monitoring the fuel supply and working with industry and state agencies to manage risks.
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