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Further to coverage of energy issues related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine ( 5 March, p 9 ). Less than 10 per cent of the oil and gas used in the UK seems to be imported from Russia, and the figures are smaller in the US. Is it too simplistic to suggest that if …

Following up on David Robson's article "The pursuit of happiness", as a Pollyanna with a relentlessly sunny disposition, I am never lonely or depressed ( 22 January, p 38 ). I offer the following lessons to add to Laurie Santos's free online course that Robson mentions: enjoy your own company; use your imagination, be creative, …

After reading your interview with "slug hunter" Rory Mc Donnell, I'm all set to trot outside with bread dough to catch the little blighters ( 5 March, p 48 ). But if it works as well as it did for Mc Donnell, I'm picturing heaving balls of live and happily feasting slugs and snails. He …

Regarding your look at the benefits of self-transcendence ( 5 March, p 44 ). Simply losing yourself in a good book can be a benefit in this world of constant outside stimuli.

Is it the case that transcendental experiences could counteract the depression and anxiety generated in most people by the reports of daily horrors in Ukraine?

Eric Kvaalen argues that scientists have exaggerated the impact of a 5-metre rise in sea levels, and says we can adapt over generations so a "massive refugee crisis" doesn't transpire ( Letters, 12 March ). I disagree. There is no exaggeration and the refugee crisis will be real, but it may remain hidden to many …

Michael Marshall mentions types of medication that have been identified as possibly protecting against long covid ( 26 February, p 38 ). These include aspirin and atorvastatin. I have been taking these daily for several years since having a heart attack and I believe they are routinely prescribed for this in the UK. I caught …

You report research on the barn owl's tail that could inform aircraft design ( 19 February, p 22 ). But whether efficient aircraft should have tails at all has been long debated. There are many examples of tailless aircraft and drones, plenty successful. Ultimately, whether a flying machine or creature will benefit from a tail …

Your article on climate change mentioned some farmers in the UK replacing cereal crops with fast-growing Paulownia trees ( 19 February, p 20 ). This is a highly invasive species in the US that is already destroying native ecosystems there. Although the prospect of a hardwood tree that can grow nearly 5 metres in a …

While agreeing that equipment should be longer-lived and repairable, I suggest that your readers who wanted a new spice and nut grinder ( Letters, 26 February ) invest in a pestle and mortar for the spices and a strong knife and chopping board for the nuts. Good quality versions will last a lifetime and require …