What’s on – January 2025
Dry January
“The New Year offers all of us an opportunity to set our goals for the 12 months ahead. Increasingly for many, this includes a desire to improve our relationship with alcohol”, says Dr Richard Piper, CEO of Alcohol Change UK.
Recognising the opportunity to reset their drinking habits, hundreds of thousands of people across the UK take a 31-day break from alcohol each year using the free tools and resources provided by the charity. From better sleep and a mental health boost to saving money and time, there’s plenty to gain from participating.
“Although the Dry January challenge is safe for most people, it isn’t right for anyone who is alcohol-dependent,” cautions the charity. There’s essential advice about alcohol withdrawal on its Help & Support page.
> Read about the benefits of the Dry January challenge and when you can expect to see them.
International Day of Education (January 24)
This year’s International Day of Education theme is ‘AI and education: Preserving human agency in a world of automation’.
“As computer and AI-driven systems become more sophisticated, the boundaries between human intention and machine-driven action often blur, raising critical questions about how to preserve, redefine, and, ideally, elevate human agency in an age of technological acceleration,” says UNESCO.
Big Garden Birdwatch (January 24-26)
Join the many thousands of nature lovers who help the RSPB monitor how the UK bird population is getting on by taking part in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey. Pick an hour to count the birds that land in your garden or a nearby space. Record the highest number of each bird species you see at any one time and submit your results to the RSPB. You can sign up now for a free guide.
Most spotted in 2024
House Sparrow
Blue Tit
Starling
Woodpigeon
Blackbird
> Read our bird care tips and find out how to make a simple pine cone bird feeder.
NEW BOOKS
The Bright Side: Why Optimists Have the Power to Change the World by Sumit Paul-Choudhury
In his thought-provoking debut book, astrophysicist-turned-journalist and former editor-in-chief of New Scientist Sumit Paul-Choudhury investigates what it takes to be an optimist today. In doing so, he demonstrates how we can find a path to the bright side by embracing action, imagination and possibility, even when the future seems dark. Published by Canongate on January 2 (£20).
> Read featured extract: The Bright Side: Radical Climate Optimism by Sumit Paul-Choudhury
Live Like a Philosopher by Massimo Pigliucci, Gregory Lopez and Meredith Alexander Kunz
What is the purpose of a life well lived?
Live Like a Philosopher offers fresh perspectives on the foremost ancient Greek and Roman schools of thought, laying the groundwork for a more intentional, philosophical life. Published by Headline Press on January 7 (£16.99).
