Can our leaders save the world? Put like that, it doesn’t sound very likely, does it? But as they gather in Glasgow this month for COP26 – the Conference of Parties 26 meeting – that’s what we’re all hoping. It feels almost like the planet’s last chance.

The mess we’re in certainly demands a global response, because while everyone can make a difference, no one can do it alone. However, some populations and even some individuals can make a bigger difference than others.

As the Earth’s environment worsens, it’s becoming clearer we are not going to reverse global warming without drastic action and some ingenious moves. COP26 must agree more concerted, coordinated action and get on with it. We need global agreements and national policies to cut consumption and to support technologies that mean we can produce in different ways. And that’s all about engineering.  

This month’s cover (or the image above) features a quote from the national treasure that is Sir...