As 2025 winds down, we've been looking at the year's most important stories in areas ranging from politics to art and culture to science.

A large stretch of Asheboro forestland home to bobcats and migratory songbirds is now off-limits to development.

There's increasing concern about PFAS, the substances commonly called forever chemicals found throughout the environment. Now volunteers in Minnesota are collecting pine needles throughout the state in an effort to help researchers determine how PFAS find their way in water, soil, and air when there seems to be no obvious source

First Descents is inviting survivors, caregivers and health care workers to start the new year outdoors at Hanging Rock.

Piedmont Land Conservancy Executive Director Kevin Redding shares a few highlights from the nonprofit's 2025 preservation efforts.

Snow isn't always white; algae can make it look green, red, or orange, and scientists are trying to understand how and why these colorful patches appear.

Researchers studying the human brain shared a lot of fascinating research this year, like how to keep brains young and how to reduce inflammation in joints.

Drugs like Adderall and Ritalin appear to help children with ADHD by activating brain areas involved in alertness and motivation.

Cuts to scientific research focused disproportionately on research around diversity equity and inclusion. Some researchers say we're just beginning to understand the impact.

To deal with smog in New Delhi, authorities have taken unpopular steps like banning a favourite street snack. Critics say it's performative.