Scientists Set Out to Map Underground Fungal Networks, Find They Cover 62 Quadrillion Miles — 2026-06-16

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Scientists Set Out to Map Underground Fungal Networks, Find They Cover 62 Quadrillion Miles — 2026-06-16

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## Short Segments Reflective roof paint is cooling homes across Africa, offering a practical solution to extreme heat. We'll explore how this innovation is making a difference. Plus, mentorship schemes are empowering youth with essential skills for the future. And coming up, scientists have mapped a vast underground fungal network that spans 62 quadrillion miles, revealing its crucial role in Earth's ecosystems. Reflective roof paint is cooling homes across Africa. In a bid to tackle extreme heat in low-income communities, researchers have introduced a South African product called Rhinoluxe Heat Reflect. Originally designed for commercial use, this infrared reflective paint is now being applied to rooftops in areas like Khayelitsha and Mphego village. The paint helps reduce indoor temperatures, providing a more comfortable living environment. This initiative, part of the Heat Adaptation Benefits for Vulnerable Groups in Africa project, aims to offer affordable and scalable solutions to heat stress. By making homes cooler, the project addresses a critical need for safe and healthy living conditions in regions where temperatures can soar to unbearable levels. The success of this project could pave the way for similar interventions across the continent, improving quality of life for many. Three mentorship schemes are helping youth develop skills. In various parts of the world, mentorship programs are empowering young people to unlock their potential. The Kids’ Network in London offers one-to-one mentoring, providing children with a trusted adult to guide them. In the Caribbean, the Aspiring Youth Empowerment Programme delivers bespoke business training and mentorship, equipping young entrepreneurs with the skills needed to succeed. Meanwhile, in Tanzania, the InukaAngaza initiative focuses on career readiness, preparing youth for the evolving job market. These programs not only build confidence and skills but also create pathways to future opportunities. By investing in the next generation, these mentorship schemes are shaping a brighter future for young people globally. ## Feature Story Scientists have mapped an underground fungal network that spans 62 quadrillion miles. This vast network, known as the "wood wide web," plays a crucial role in Earth's ecosystems. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, which form symbiotic relationships with about 70 percent of plant species, are at the heart of this network. They exchange nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen with plants in return for carbon, effectively supporting plant growth and regulating the climate. The fungi's ability to draw down carbon dioxide is significant, accounting for roughly 11 percent of global fossil fuel emissions. This discovery highlights the importance of fungi in maintaining ecological balance and combating climate change. The mapping of these networks provides a new understanding of the scale and impact of fungal life beneath our feet. As scientists continue to explore these networks, they may uncover further insights into how fungi contribute to biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. This research not only deepens our appreciation of fungi but also underscores the need to protect these vital networks for the health of our planet.

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