China to end mercury thermometer manufacturing

For decades, countries have invested heavily in engineering education. Despite this, many still face a persistent problem where graduates are theoretically proficient but lack practical readiness. This gap between academic training and industrial application is not unique to any one nation. China, however, is pursuing a distinct approach through its coordinated national strategy, the Outstanding Engineer training reform. This initiative aims to reshape how engineers are educated, with potential consequences for innovation worldwide./ Motivational Monday (18:41)! On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei

For generations, the mercury thermometer has been a staple in Chinese households, its familiar ritual marking moments of care and concern. However, in accordance with the Minamata Convention and national environment and health policies, China is officially phasing out its production. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Fei Fei

In most professions, experience is an asset. In academia, it is becoming a barrier. A system of intense competition and rigid quotas now uses age as a crude filter for efficiency, devaluing the very time required to build knowledge. This calculus forces a stark reassessment of the PhD's worth and what our universities truly value. / The anxiety of being left "on read" (18:24). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan

It's been ten years since the landmark Paris Agreement, and its novel engine of national pledges and global transparency now faces a decisive test against record warming and a widening climate finance gap. The journey to this point reveals a story of unexpected turns and stubborn realities. On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Yushan

China's“strictest ever" e-bike safety standard is now the law of the land. Nearly 400 million rides are impacted. The mandate? Tougher frames, safer batteries—a complete upgrade for a new generation on two wheels. But what about the trusty bike in your garage? Will shops still service it? Will parts still exist? The transition has arrived. We break down exactly what it means for your daily ride and your wallet. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan

With cold season here, our disposable mask defense is back. But when we toss it away, its story isn't over. It begins a centuries-long sentence in landfills and oceans. What if we could commute that sentence? Scientists may have found a way, transforming this symbol of waste into a tool for cleanup. Is this the key to breaking a toxic cycle? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan

Walking into a mall today reveals a striking contrast: traditional gold jewelry counters stand hushed, while the same brands' online livestreams explode with millions of viewers. Young Chinese consumers are redefining gold, transforming it into fashion, investment, and entertainment all at once. The gold rush is back, and its drivers are entirely new. / All eyes on Hainan International Film Festival (19:06). On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Guo Yan

We've all been there: racing to check in only to find every decent seat locked behind a paywall. A new investigation confirms airlines are testing passenger limits just as high-speed rail emerges as a smoother alternative. As air travel grows more arduous and costly, who wins the traveler's heart? On the show: Niu Honglin, Steve & Guo Yan

Plugging a colossal solar farm into the grid requires the precision of open-heart surgery on our power networks. The universal playbook engineers need for this task is now a reality. Forged by China and 13 other countries, this new global standard is the critical blueprint for a renewable future. / How do you stay warm and safe in deep winter (15:07)? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun

China's logistics revolution is turning science fiction into reality, using unmanned technology like drones to deliver fresh produce to remote villages and reshape rural economies. Yet significant obstacles stand in the way. Can it clear these final barriers? We explore the promise and the challenges ahead. On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushun