Latest news: Asia

Pioneering research unravels hidden origins of Eastern Asia’s ‘land of milk and honey’
A study has revealed for the first time the ancient origins of one of the world’s most important ecosystems.

“Attitude of gratitude” keeps older people in Japan feeling hopeful as they age, study shows
Older people in Japan have an “attitude of gratitude” which keeps them feeling hopeful despite the challenges of aging, a new study says.

'Message in a bottle' tracks plastic pollution
Electronic tags released in the Ganges river show plastic pollution can travel thousands of kilometres in just a few months.

Waste fishing gear threatens Ganges wildlife
Waste fishing gear in the River Ganges poses a threat to wildlife including otters, turtles and dolphins, new research shows.

Plant evolves to become less visible to humans
A plant used in traditional Chinese medicine has evolved to become less visible to humans, new research shows.

Project to investigate Southeast Asia plastic pollution
Researchers have launched an ambitious project to discover the impacts of plastic pollution in the oceans of Southeast Asia – and how the problem might be tackled.

Air pollution in China fell 48% due to economic impact of COVID-19 policies
Air pollution in China, as measured by levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), fell by 48% during lockdown, as a result of the economic fall-out from policies implemented to prevent the spread of COVID-19, a study has found.

Genetics could help diagnose diabetes in Indians, study shows
A new way of using genetics to diagnose diabetes could pave the way for better diagnosis and treatment in Indians, new research has concluded.

New project explores perceptions of China
A new research project exploring how the West perceives China is to be launched at the University of Exeter.

Chemical composition of bedrock limits vegetation growth in karst regions, research shows
Scientists have revealed the critical role that the chemical composition of bedrock plays in limiting vegetation growth in some of the world’s most barren and rocky terrains.

Stunning scroll paintings and graphic art show shared history of famine in India and Britain
Beautifully illustrated scrolls and graphic art storytelling traditions will help communities to reflect on shared histories of famine in India and Britain and cope with today’s environmental changes.

Plant life expanding in the Everest region
Plant life is expanding in the area around Mount Everest, and across the Himalayan region, new research shows.

Exeter leads research into impacts of flooding and drought in South East Asia
Experts from the University of Exeter’s College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences (CEMPS) will spearhead two pioneering new research projects that aim to boost local resilience to the devastating effects of natural disasters across South East Asia.

Exeter-Hong Kong centre to promote environmental sustainability and resilience
First of its kind Joint Centre in Hong Kong