Imagine Earth has a giant set of underground “storage lockers” where we can tuck away carbon dioxide (CO₂) for centuries so it doesn’t heat the planet. Scientists call this geologic carbon storage. 



It sounds simple: capture CO₂ from factories, power plants, or even the air, pipe it deep underground into the tiny spaces inside certain rocks, and lock it there.



For years, underground storage of carbon dioxide looked and felt like a clever climate trick. Capture the gas, lock it in rock layers, and keep burning fossil fuels while claiming progress. 



The idea seemed safe because early estimates suggested nearly limitless space.



That illusion has collapsed. New research shows the planet’s usable underground storage capacity is far smaller than imagined. Instead of centuries of security, this cushion could run out within 200 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-storage-drops-sharply">Carbon storage drops sharply</h2>



Industry once placed global capacity at around 14,000 gigatons. A closer look, however, strips away risky regions - earthquake zones, fragile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/construction-materials-could-store-carbon-in-homes-and-buildings-helping-the-climate/">ecosystems</a>, and crowded cities. What remains is only about 1,460 gigatonnes.



This tenfold drop changes everything. What once seemed endless is now a resource with strict boundaries, one that must be managed carefully. Every choice about how it is used carries long-term consequences. 



If reserved for short-term fixes, the world risks burning through it quickly. If protected for carbon removal, it could become a critical lifeline for stabilizing temperatures far into the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-hidden-beneath-the-surface">Risks hidden beneath the surface</h2>



Underground storage carries hazards. Injecting carbon can stir up seismic activity, reactivate faults, or open escape paths. Leaks into aquifers could acidify water and release toxic metals. 



Offshore storage avoids some human risks but adds cost and geopolitical disputes. Public pushback also limits expansion, with some governments blocking projects altogether.



Opposition often stems from fears of leaks, distrust of industry promises, and concerns that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-storage-mystery-emerges-in-the-southern-ocean/">storage</a> will be used to justify continued fossil fuel use. 



These challenges mean underground storage cannot expand smoothly or universally; every project faces technical, political, and social barriers that slow progress and shrink real-world potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-storage-s-uncertain-future">Carbon storage’s uncertain future</h2>



Climate plans already assume storage will be vital to reach net zero. But if it mainly serves fossil fuel plants, reserves could vanish by 2200 - and every decade of delay accelerates that timeline. 



Deep emission cuts now ease future pressure, while procrastination forces heavier reliance on shrinking storage space. 



One promising strategy is to prioritize underground capacity for carbon removal rather than fossil fuel capture.



Direct air capture and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/abandoned-farmland-can-be-used-for-climate-change-mitigation/">bioenergy</a> with carbon storage could actively draw carbon out of the atmosphere, offering a cooling effect. 



If the full capacity were dedicated to this role, global temperatures could fall by as much as 0.7 °C (1.3 °F), though in practice the impact may be closer to 0.4 °C (0.7 °F) because the climate system doesn’t respond perfectly symmetrically to removal and emission.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reserves-unevenly-spread-worldwide">Reserves unevenly spread worldwide</h2>



Storage is not shared fairly across the globe. The United States, Russia, and Australia hold large, stable reserves. Europe and India lose far more under stricter risk rules.



Meanwhile, some nations in Africa and South America have vast potential but little historic responsibility for emissions. That imbalance raises thorny questions of justice - who gets to use the storage, and on what terms. 



Should wealthy nations pay for access to reserves in countries that contributed less to the crisis? Or should those with the largest reserves prioritize their own development needs first? 



These questions highlight deep inequalities that will shape future climate negotiations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storage-can-only-buy-time">Storage can only buy time</h2>



Some experts argue the true potential is larger, pointing to decades of safe use in oil and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-natural-hydrogen-deposit-discovery-is-worth-a-staggering-184-billion/">gas reservoirs</a>. 



They note that many depleted fields have held fluids securely for millions of years and could continue to hold injected carbon just as reliably.



Supporters of this view see existing infrastructure and technical expertise as proof that storage can operate at much greater scale than the conservative estimates suggest.



Even so, most researchers caution against treating underground storage as a limitless solution. It was never designed to be the final answer to climate change. 



At best, it should function as a bridge - a temporary measure that buys time while renewables expand, low-carbon industries mature, and societies shift away from fossil fuels.



In that sense, storage is less a cure and more a stabilizer, easing the transition without promising permanence. Its real value lies in supporting broader change, not replacing it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-future-depends-on-choices">Carbon future depends on choices</h2>



The message is clear: underground storage is limited, risky, and unevenly distributed. It can help, but only if used strategically. 



That means prioritizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/states-taking-action-on-their-own-can-cut-half-of-u-s-emissions/">emission cuts</a>, expanding clean energy, and reserving storage for removing carbon already in the air.



Treating it as infinite would squander one of the few tools that could still reverse warming, leaving future generations with fewer options, higher risks, and a far narrower path to a stable climate.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09423-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Earth has 10x less space for underground carbon storage than we thought - any other ideas?

Imagine Earth has a giant set of underground “storage lockers” where we can tuck away carbon dioxide (CO₂) for centuries so it doesn’t heat the planet. Scientists call this geologic carbon storage. It sounds simple: capture CO₂ from factories, power plants, or even the air, pipe it deep underground into the tiny spaces inside certain rocks, and lock it there. For years, underground storage of carbon dioxide looked and felt like a clever climate trick. Capture the gas, lock it in rock layers, and keep burning fossil...

We’re living in the Anthropocene, a new geological epoch that shows just how big an impact humans have had on our planet. From changing the climate to reshaping landscapes, our influence is now on par with natural forces in driving Earth’s systems. 



Industrial activities, urbanization, and deforestation have left their mark, pushing ecosystems to their limits and driving species to extinction at alarming rates. 



The Anthropocene isn’t just a time of change; it’s a crucial moment in Earth’s history that prompts us to rethink how we relate to the natural world and our role in its future. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defining-the-start-of-the-anthropocene">Defining the start of the Anthropocene</h2>



A team of Earth scientists led by the <a href="https://www.uvi.edu/research/center-for-marine-environmental-studies/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Marine Environmental Studies</a> has identified the 1950s as the most likely starting point for the Anthropocene.



Proposals regarding when humanity began to significantly change the Earth system have included several milestones:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Development of agricultural societies approximately 8,000 years ago </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Development of irrigated rice cultivation approximately 6,500 to 5,000 years ago</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Arrival of Europeans in the “New World” between 1492 and 1800, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychological-impact-industrial-revolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Industrial Revolution</a>, and the Great Acceleration</li>
</ul>



“However, to date, no report has pinpointed the time at which humankind began to disrupt much of the operation of the Earth system based on global datasets of diverse proxy records with high-precision chronology," noted the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-in-the-mid-20th-century">New era in the mid-20th century </h2>



In their comprehensive analysis, published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2313098121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, the researchers evaluated three leading contenders for the beginning of the Anthropocene and concluded that the mid-20th century stands out as the strongest candidate.&nbsp;



This new study adds significant weight to the ongoing debate about when human activities began to leave a profound and lasting mark on our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concept-of-the-anthropocene-nbsp">Concept of the Anthropocene&nbsp;</h2>



The concept of the Anthropocene was first proposed in 2002 by Nobel laureate Paul Crutzen, who suggested that the Holocene - the current geological epoch - had ended and been succeeded by a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/welcome-to-humanitys-new-era-the-anthropocene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new era</a> dominated by human-induced changes.&nbsp;



Since Crutzen's proposal, scientists have debated whether sufficient evidence exists to formally recognize the Anthropocene and pinpoint its exact start date.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-globally-significant-human-impact">Globally significant human impact</h2>



Believing that the evidence is indeed compelling enough to declare the Anthropocene, the research team set out to determine the precise moment when human impact became globally significant. They examined a range of indicators across three potential start dates:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Late 1800s: Marked by the onset of the Industrial Revolution, this period saw the widespread distribution of lead across major land surfaces, alterations in stable isotope ratios, and shifts in nutrient balances. </li>



<li>Early 1900s: Characterized by global changes in pollen distribution, significant increases in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-carbon-emissions-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black carbon</a>, and widespread alterations in stable isotopes. </li>



<li>Mid-20th Century (1950s): This era witnessed the proliferation of organic pollutants, the emergence of plastics and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-every-semen-sample-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>, the beginning of the nuclear age with test blasts leaving evidence worldwide, and the onset of major impacts from global warming.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enduring-changes-to-earth-s-systems">Enduring changes to Earth's systems</h2>



After meticulously comparing the global impacts of these periods, the researchers found that the 1950s best encapsulated the most measurable and enduring changes to the Earth's systems.&nbsp;



These changes are likely to persist for thousands, if not millions, of years, making them a clear marker of a new geological epoch.



The team emphasized that the mid-20th century introduced changes that are both easily observable and irreversible on geological timescales.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-true-start-of-the-anthropocene">True start of the Anthropocene </h2>



By comparing the global impact of all three periods, the scientists concluded it was the third one that should be considered as the true start of the Anthropocene, being characterized by the most easily seen and measured global changes.



“This study reveals the dates of rapid increases in anthropogenic fingerprints in the strata of the Antarctica, Arctic, East Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, and other regions,” noted the researchers.



“This leads to the identification of an unprecedented surge in diverse anthropogenic fingerprints throughout all regions, which began in 1952 ± 3 CE, corresponding to the onset of the Great Acceleration.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-great-acceleration">The Great Acceleration</h2>



According to the study authors, this demonstrates that an overwhelming force with global influence can now be associated with human activities during the Great Acceleration, rapidly and fundamentally transforming diverse natural processes and cycles in the Earth system.



The experts further noted that the global upsurge in anthropogenic fingerprints suggests that humans have become a geological and planetary force capable of inscribing abundant and diverse anthropogenic fingerprints in strata worldwide.&nbsp;



“This period marked the start of profound planetary-wide changes, such as climate deviations from the Holocene conditions, the transformation of the nitrogen cycle, and intercontinental invasions and colonization of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unseen-crisis-37000-alien-species-have-been-introduced-by-human-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alien species</a>.”&nbsp;



“Thus, the nearly simultaneous and unprecedented surges in anthropogenic signals worldwide suggest that human influences began to profoundly change the Earth system around 1952 CE.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impacts-on-earth">Human impacts on Earth</h2>



This research not only solidifies the argument for the Anthropocene but also provides a clear timeframe that can guide future scientific and policy discussions about human impacts on the Earth.&nbsp;



By identifying the 1950s as the starting point, the study highlights the profound and rapid changes initiated during this period, underscoring the significant role human activities have played in shaping the planet's future.



The research included contributions from experts at the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a>, the Australian National University, Matsuyama University, Kyoto University, and Shimane University.



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The Anthropocene: When exactly did humans begin changing Earth?

We’re living in the Anthropocene, a new geological epoch that...

The January 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga underwater volcano resulted in one of the most significant volcanic events in recorded history, comparable to the impact of a nuclear explosion.



The cause of this cataclysmic eruption has long puzzled scientists, leaving many questions about its origins unanswered. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extraordinary-magnitude-of-tonga-explosion">Extraordinary magnitude of Tonga explosion </h2>



However, a student-led team of seismologists from <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Australian National University</a> (ANU) has made strides in understanding the eruption's triggering mechanisms.



The recent study reveals that the eruption was not just a typical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-volcanic-events-linked-to-the-slowing-of-tectonic-plates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic event</a> but rather an explosion of extraordinary magnitude, characterized by unprecedented energy release and significant geological impact.



The research highlights the unique nature of the Hunga Tonga eruption, setting it apart from previous <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/volcanic-activity-has-intensified-on-anak-krakatau/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activities</a> and emphasizing the importance of further research to fully understand its implications for volcanic science.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nuclear-power-of-the-explosion">Nuclear power of the explosion</h2>



The researchers meticulously analyzed extensive seismic records of the eruption, which were described as noisy yet remarkably valuable for their insights.&nbsp;



The analysis revealed that the eruption resulted from a massive explosion caused by gas-compressed rock beneath the surface.&nbsp;



This explosive release of energy was equivalent to five underground <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-should-you-do-in-the-event-of-a-nuclear-explosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nuclear explosions</a> conducted by North Korea, showcasing the eruption's unprecedented power.



“Our findings confirm there was an explosion, possibly due to a gas-compressed rock, which released energy that equated to five of the largest underground nuclear explosions conducted by North Korea in 2017,” stated Jinyin Hu, an ANU PhD student and co-author of the study.&nbsp;



This research not only sheds light on the eruption’s incredible intensity but also enhances our understanding of the complex mechanisms driving such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-disasters-are-on-the-rise-but-hazard-plans-are-inadequate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural disasters</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-amount-of-vertical-force">Massive amount of vertical force</h2>



The Tonga explosion generated a massive vertical push of water into the atmosphere, creating powerful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-disasters-like-tsunamis-cause-lasting-health-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tsunamis</a> that reached staggering heights of up to 45 meters at nearby islands.



"The water volume that was uplifted during the event was huge.&nbsp;Based on our estimates, there was enough water to fill about one million standard Olympic-sized swimming pools,” said Dr. Thanh-Son Pham, highlighting the extraordinary scale of the displacement.&nbsp;



To explore the mechanics of the event further, the experts utilized advanced seismic waveform modeling for a comprehensive analysis.



“Using seismic waveform modeling, we observed a significant vertical force pointing upward during the event," said Professor Hrvoje Tkalčić.



This approach provided invaluable insights into the eruption's dynamics and its far-reaching consequences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-future-eruptions">Preparing for future eruptions</h2>



According to the ANU seismologists, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tonga-eruption-released-the-highest-known-volcanic-plume/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tonga eruption</a> stands out as the best-instrumentally recorded event of its size in recent history. 



“This is one of the largest events in our lifetime. Luckily, we had multiple ways to record the event, from data from satellite images to seismic sensors that record the sound waves and structure,” Hu noted.&nbsp;



He compared this eruption to the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines, which was of similar size but lacked sophisticated monitoring systems. 



“There was another event that happened in 1991 that was a similar size in Pinatubo in the Philippines, but back then, monitoring systems weren’t as sophisticated as they are now,” said Hu.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-future-eruptions-0">Preparing for future eruptions </h2>



The ANU researchers believe that ongoing monitoring of gas emissions and micro-seismicity from volcanic sites will enhance our ability to prepare for future events.



Understanding these mechanisms is crucial as we face the potential for similar natural disasters in the future.&nbsp;



The Hunga Tonga eruption has provided invaluable insights into volcanic activity, deepening our understanding of this particular event while enhancing our preparedness for future eruptions worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-effects-of-the-tonga-eruption">Global effects of the Tonga eruption </h2>



The Hunga Tonga eruption not only had local effects but also sent shockwaves felt across the globe.&nbsp;The explosion generated atmospheric waves that circled the Earth multiple times, leading to unique atmospheric phenomena.&nbsp;



Researchers noted that these waves affected weather patterns and could potentially influence climate conditions in the surrounding regions. 



This unprecedented event highlights the importance of global monitoring systems to track volcanic activity and assess its broader environmental impacts.



As scientists continue to analyze the data collected from the eruption, the insights gained could help improve disaster preparedness and response strategies for future volcanic events around the world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GL109442" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Tonga eruption had the energy of five nuclear explosions

The January 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga underwater volcano...

Most climate scientists predict a more drastic global warming increase than what the 2015 Paris Agreement aimed to limit, according to a study led by Concordia University.



The goal of the international treaty is to limit global temperature rise this century to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The more ambitious target is to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-warming-forecasts">Global warming forecasts</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ozone-day-2024-advancing-climate-action/">climate</a> experts surveyed, all of whom are authors for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), showed a hint of optimism despite their concerning prediction. 



Two-thirds feel we can accomplish net-zero CO2 emissions in the latter half of the 21st century, suggesting that our mitigation efforts have the potential to appropriately steer the emissions curve. 



CO2 removal also received acknowledgment, with a median response suggesting that technology could help remove up to five gigatons of carbon dioxide (GtCO2) per year by 2050. However, this figure sits at the lower end of what is believed to be necessary to meet the Paris targets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-climate-experts">Insights from climate experts</h2>



Led by Seth Wynes, the study aimed to uncover how some of the world's leading climate experts perceive potential climate outcomes. Now an assistant professor at the <a href="https://uwaterloo.ca/">University of Waterloo</a>, Wynes was a former postdoctoral fellow at <a href="https://www.concordia.ca/">Concordia University</a>. 



"These scientists also engage in important <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-relocating-in-a-race-against-global-warming/">climate change</a> communication, so their optimism or pessimism can affect how decision-makers are receiving messages about climate change," noted Wynes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-warming-predictions">Global warming predictions</h2>



The survey, which involved 211 respondents, revealed a general pessimism about hitting the Paris targets with current policies. 



A staggering 86% of the experts estimated a warming above 2˚C (3.6°F) by 2100, with the median estimate of 2.7˚C (4.9°F) possessing potential catastrophic consequences for our world. 



Nonetheless, this estimate should not be seen as an inevitable outcome, noted study co-author Damon Matthews. 



"These responses are not a prediction of future warming, but rather a gauge of what the scientific community believes," said Matthews, a professor in the Department of Geography, Planning and Environment at Concordia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beliefs-biases-and-global-warming">Beliefs, biases, and global warming</h2>



The respondents were also asked to estimate their peers' responses to the same questions. There was a strong correlation between what the scientists believed and what they sense their colleagues to believe, said Wynes 



"They had a bias to see their beliefs as representative of the larger group. This can indicate an overconfidence in their own beliefs, so we think this is a good opportunity for them to reevaluate what their peers actually believe."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effective-climate-change-communication">Effective climate change communication</h2>



The way climate scientists communicate their findings to the public and policymakers plays a crucial role in shaping the global response to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-volcanic-past-reveals-the-shocking-reality-of-global-warming/">climate change</a>. 



This communication on global warming is not merely the transmission of facts but also involves conveying a sense of urgency and possible solutions to mitigate the impact. 



Effective climate change communication can motivate policy changes, bolster public support for environmental initiatives, and encourage individual action towards sustainable practices. 



However, the inherent uncertainties and variances in expert predictions pose challenges in maintaining a balanced narrative. It is essential for communicators to acknowledge these uncertainties while still emphasizing the critical need for immediate action to prevent the most severe outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovations-in-mitigation-strategies">Innovations in mitigation strategies</h2>



Amid these daunting projections lies a burgeoning field of innovation focused on climate change mitigation. Advances in renewable energy, such as solar, wind, and geothermal technologies, offer promising pathways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly. 



These developments are coupled with breakthroughs in battery storage and smart grid technology, which are essential for the stabilization and integration of clean energy into existing power systems. 



Furthermore, the potential of emerging technologies for direct air capture and carbon sequestration holds promise for addressing emissions beyond just reduction, allowing for the actual removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 



As these technologies evolve, they must be supported by robust policy frameworks and public-private partnerships to achieve scalable impacts. In doing so, society can hope to bridge the gap between current trajectories and the ambitious goals set forth by the Paris Agreement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-differing-perspectives-on-global-warming">Differing perspectives on global warming</h2>



While climate scientists' verdicts on possible climate scenarios are valuable, Matthews - an IPCC author himself - acknowledges the important role of differing perspectives in addressing global warming and climate change. 



Matthews recognizes that policy implementation and societal reform will determine the rate of emissions reduction.



"The decision as to what we do and how we respond to the climate challenge is up to policymakers and the public that they represent, and I think the full range of outcomes is still very much on the table," said Matthews.



Contributing authors to this paper include Steven Davis of <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>, Mitchell Dickau and Susan Ly at Concordia University, Edward Maibach at George Mason University, Joeri Rogelj at Imperial College London, and Kirsten Zickfeld at Simon Fraser University.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01661-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.&nbsp;



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Climate experts predict global warming will far exceed Paris goals

Most climate scientists predict a more drastic global warming increase...

Marine microplastic pollution is often illustrated by images of wildlife trapped in plastic debris on beaches, highlighting the urgent need for action. However, this widespread pollution goes far beyond what we can see.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-microplastic-sinks">Hidden microplastic sinks</h2>



Each year, up to 12.7 million tons of plastic enter the ocean through rivers, fishing, aquaculture, and shipping, posing serious threats to marine ecosystems and human health.



While the amount of floating plastic is much lower than expected, it indicates the presence of unseen sinks where microplastics accumulate.



Recent research has identified one such sink in the North Sea. In 2022, Dr. Danja Hoehn and colleagues at the <a href="https://www.cefas.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science</a> collected microplastic data using a specialized Neuston Microplastic Catamaran.



This floating catamaran, equipped with a mechanical flowmeter and mesh, captured plastics at the ocean’s surface, where microplastics first enter from terrestrial runoff or ship-based sources before sinking to the seabed. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastic-crisis-in-coastal-waters">Microplastic crisis in coastal waters </h2>



The research is shedding new light on the severity of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-making-the-ocean-more-acidic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic pollution</a> in coastal waters.



The data revealed alarming levels of microplastic pollution in coastal areas of the North Sea, particularly in the Southern Bight, where concentrations exceeded 25,000 microplastic items per square kilometer. This region recorded some of the highest levels compared to other nearby areas.



On average, the waters of the Southern Bight contained around 8,700 microplastic items per square kilometer, which is significantly higher than nearby offshore areas. 



Off the Scottish coast, microplastic concentrations averaged 4,500 items per square kilometer, while the northeast Atlantic had an average of 3,200 items per square kilometer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-the-microplastic-particles">Identifying the microplastic particles</h2>



Most of these microplastics were fragments of everyday materials like polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. 



Polyethylene, accounting for 67% of the microplastics found, is commonly used in items such as shopping bags and water bottles. 



Polypropylene, at 16%, is used in packaging and textiles, while polystyrene, making up 8%, is found in packaging and disposable medical devices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-presence-of-large-plastic-debris">Presence of large plastic debris </h2>



While the researchers were focused on microplastics, they also uncovered the presence of larger plastic debris. Mesoplastics, measuring 5 to 25 millimeters, and macroplastics, over 25 millimeters, were present but in lower concentrations. 



These larger plastics are often fragments of broken-down materials, including microbeads and plastic film. 



Despite a UK ban on microbeads in cosmetics since 2018, their presence in the North Sea suggests they are still being transported by ocean currents from other regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hotspots-of-microplastic-pollution">Hotspots of microplastic pollution </h2>



Hotspots of microplastic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-antarctica-much-worse-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> were identified near the coast of East Anglia, where concentrations were at their highest.



Despite variations in plastic levels across the study area, the widespread presence of microplastics highlights the ongoing threat they pose to marine ecosystems. The particles can harm marine life through ingestion and entanglement, disrupting entire food webs. 



Currents play a major role in carrying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-floor-harbors-up-to-11-million-tons-of-plastic-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic debris</a> into these accumulation zones, with plastics from various countries adding to the problem.&nbsp;



Interestingly, while the concentrations in the UK's waters are concerning, they are still lower than those recorded in other parts of the world.



For example, areas off the coast of northwest Spain have been found to contain around 254,000 plastic items per square kilometer, while west Portugal has seen levels around 40,000 items per square kilometer. The Canary Islands recorded a staggering one million items per square kilometer in 2024.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-action-on-plastic-pollution">Global action on plastic pollution</h2>



Efforts to address this growing issue are underway at both national and international levels. The UK's Marine Strategy includes plans to develop a microplastics indicator to monitor levels in marine sediments. 



The North-East Atlantic Environmental Strategy also focuses on reducing marine litter in the region. On a broader scale, the United Nations Environmental Agency is working toward a legally binding agreement to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-world-may-put-an-end-to-plastic-pollution-by-2040/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">end plastic pollution by 2040</a>.



With the global demand for plastic products now exceeding 400 million tons per year, understanding where plastic ends up in our oceans is crucial.&nbsp;



This research brings us one step closer to uncovering the hidden plastic sinks in our oceans, highlighting the urgent need for action to protect marine life and preserve ocean ecosystems for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastic-threat-to-marine-life">Microplastic threat to marine life</h2>



The presence of microplastics in the North Sea not only poses a direct threat to marine life but also disrupts the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.&nbsp;



As these tiny particles accumulate, they can interfere with the reproductive and feeding behaviors of various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-found-in-every-aquatic-species-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine species</a>.&nbsp;



For example, filter feeders may ingest microplastics along with their food, leading to harmful health effects and potentially affecting population dynamics.&nbsp;



Additionally, the presence of microplastics can alter habitat conditions, making it difficult for some species to thrive.&nbsp;



Understanding these impacts is essential for effective conservation efforts and for safeguarding the health of the ocean environment.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1430307/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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Hotspots of microplastic pollution found in the North Sea

Marine microplastic pollution is often illustrated by images of wildlife...

Every day, we are unknowingly exposed to a multitude of chemicals. Among these are a group of toxic airborne chemicals known as plasticizers.



If you think these are limited to children's toys, beauty products, or even plastic bags, think again. These robust substances are everywhere, from your lunchbox to your shower curtain, and even your garden hose. 



Airborne plastic chemicals are as intrusive as they are pervasive. They are silently invading our homes, our bodies, and our environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-all-plasticizers-are-born-equal">Not all plasticizers are born equal</h2>



David Volz, an esteemed professor of environmental sciences at the University of California, Riverside (<a href="https://www.ucr.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCR</a>), has made some shocking discoveries about these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-infiltrating-the-human-body-even-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elusive c</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-infiltrating-the-human-body-even-the-brain/">hemicals</a>. 



Until now, much of California's monitoring programs focused on a category of plasticizers termed ortho-phthalates, which were gradually phased out due to health and environmental reasons.



However, less attention was given to their successors - the non-ortho-phthalates. Volz’s research has revealed the omnipresence of both these types, creating a stir in the scientific community.



"Over the last 20 years, the plastics industry has gradually transitioned away from ortho-phthalates towards alternative chemicals due to concerns about the potential environmental and human health risks associated with ortho-phthalate exposure," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skyrocketing-levels-of-airborne-plastic-chemicals">Skyrocketing levels of airborne plastic chemicals </h2>



This study did more than just scratch the surface; it upturned long-standing beliefs and expectations. Southern California's air was found to be riddled with both categories of plasticizers. 



"The levels are through the roof," said Volz, expressing his surprise at the enormity of the problem. Indeed, it seems that it's high time people sit up and take notice of the lurking danger in the very air we breathe.



The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences is also doing its part to spotlight this study. They featured Volz’s work in the October issue of their monthly newsletter, Environmental Factor - a clear testament to the significance of these findings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-extent-of-the-problem">Measuring the extent of the problem</h2>



To conduct this study, Volz and his team tracked two groups of UCR undergrad students commuting from different parts of Southern California. 



The students wore specially designed silicone wristbands that recorded their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-from-plastic-bottles-raises-your-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure to chem</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-from-plastic-bottles-raises-your-blood-pressure/">icals</a> present in the air. The data yielded from the wristbands painted a disturbing picture of the extent of plasticizer pollution in the environment.



Unlike a previous study where a flame-retardant and carcinogen known as TDCIPP was found concentrated in commuter car seats, the origin of these plasticizers remains elusive. 



Being airborne, these toxic substances could have infiltrated the wristbands from virtually anywhere - a testament to how widespread plasticizers have become.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-levels-of-phthalates">Alarming levels of phthalates</h2>



Of the ten plasticizers analyzed from the wristbands, three particular phthalates – DiNP, DEHP, and DEHT – were found at staggeringly high levels. 



The first two were included in California's Proposition 65 list, a catalog of chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects and other harm to the reproductive system. 



DEHT, introduced as a replacement, is relatively new, and its impact on human health remains largely unexplored.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consistent-levels-of-airborne-plastic-chemicals">Consistent levels of airborne plastic chemicals </h2>



Regardless of the changes in temperatures, humidity, or geographical location, the teams found similar levels of those chemicals not just in Southern California but also in studies conducted on the East Coast. This underscores a poignant fact: phthalates are not a local issue but a national concern.



“No matter who you are, or where you are, your daily level of exposure to these plasticizer chemicals is high and persistent,” Volz said. “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-every-semen-sample-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">They are ubiquitous</a>.”



As plastics degrade, these chemicals leach into the environment, silently sneaking into every corner of our lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seeking-alternatives-to-plasticizers">Seeking alternatives to plasticizers</h2>



This study highlights the urgent need to find <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-plastics-drastically-reduce-microplastic-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alternatives</a> to plastic. According to Volz, the only way to decrease the concentration of plasticizers in the air is to decrease our production and consumption of materials containing plasticizers. 



It is time we break the cycle, not just for our health, but also for the sake of our environment.



The dangers of plasticizers, invisible yet omnipresent, serve as a stark reminder of our collective responsibility to the environment and our health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935124013707?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research</a>.



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Airborne plastic chemicals have reached shocking levels

Every day, we are unknowingly exposed to a multitude of...

Hundreds of industrial facilities housing toxic chemicals found themselves in the path of Hurricane Helene as it swept through the Southeast in late September 2024, flooding communities and bringing widespread devastation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toxic-chemicals-in-the-path-of-helene">Toxic chemicals in the path of Helene</h2>



In coastal areas and further into Georgia, Helene surged over paper mills, fertilizer factories, and oil and gas storage sites.&nbsp;



Paper mills, notorious for their environmental impact, are particularly concerning, with some still containing thousands of pounds of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-blame-lead-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lead</a> from past practices. 



In Florida, officials reported that a retired nuclear power plant near Cedar Key was inundated by a storm surge reaching up to 12 feet, flooding buildings and an industrial wastewater pond.&nbsp;



Although spent nuclear fuel stored at the site was believed to be secure, the situation raised alarm, especially considering that the same site had flooded during Hurricane Idalia in 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollutants-quietly-enter-the-waterways">Pollutants quietly enter the waterways</h2>



Further inland, the storm unleashed over a foot of rain across industrial sites in the Carolinas and Tennessee, some of which are situated near waterways that quickly swelled with runoff from the mountains.



In disasters like Helene, the full extent of industrial damage often unfolds over several days, and residents might not even hear about the release of toxic chemicals into water or air until days or weeks later - if they’re informed at all. Unfortunately, pollution releases during such events are all too common.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toxic-chemicals-spread-by-storms">Toxic chemicals spread by storms</h2>



After Hurricane Ian struck Florida’s western coast in 2022, hazardous materials from damaged storage tanks and fertilizer mining facilities spilled across coastal wetlands and into the Gulf of Mexico, even becoming visible from space.&nbsp;



In 2021, Hurricane Ida triggered more than 2,000 reported chemical spills. During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, floodwaters surrounded chemical plants near Houston, causing some to catch fire and release massive amounts of pollutants into the air.&nbsp;



Without clear information, emergency responders and residents faced respiratory illnesses and other health risks, often unaware of what chemicals were in the air.



Toxic materials spread by storms like Helene can settle into the environment and pose long-term health risks, often with little to no warning for those living nearby.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hazardous-industrial-sites-in-the-path-of-flooding">Hazardous industrial sites in the path of flooding</h2>



A team of environmental sociologists and anthropologists at Rice University has recently mapped hazardous industrial sites across the country and paired them with hurricane impact maps to help communities hold these facilities accountable.



The most obvious risks from industrial facilities are along the U.S. Gulf Coast, where petrochemical complexes - refineries, factories, and storage sites - are clustered near rivers and bays for easy shipping access. 



Unfortunately, this also places them in the path of storm surge flooding, which can raise ocean levels by several feet. For example, Helene’s storm surge reached over 10 feet above ground level in Florida’s Big Bend and more than 6 feet high in Tampa Bay.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollution-releases-during-hurricanes">Pollution releases during hurricanes </h2>



A recent <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.3c10797" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> highlighted that pollution releases during hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico are two to three times more frequent than during normal weather between 2005 and 2020. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> releases disproportionately impact low-income communities and communities of color, exacerbating already significant environmental health risks.



Despite the alarming statistics, hazardous releases often fly under the radar due to limited disclosure requirements and a lack of public information. Even emergency responders might not know exactly what chemicals they’re dealing with in the midst of a crisis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toxic-chemicals-flying-under-the-radar">Toxic chemicals flying under the radar</h2>



The <a href="https://www.epa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency</a> (EPA) requires major polluters to submit risk management plans, but these plans often only provide general information about on-site chemicals.



Some large-scale fuel storage facilities, like those storing liquefied natural gas, don’t even have to submit this information. 



Additionally, while these plans are supposed to outline “worst-case” scenarios, accessing them can be difficult due to redactions and restricted availability.



To make matters worse, many states, especially along the Gulf, suspend pollution restrictions during emergencies. Incident notifications from the National Response Center, which tracks chemical discharges into the environment, are often delayed by a week or more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-awareness-of-chemical-threats">Public awareness of chemical threats</h2>



With climate change fueling more frequent and intense storms, public awareness of these rising chemical threats should be at the forefront of the conversation. 



Communities need to understand the risks posed by industrial infrastructure, particularly as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-predicts-global-warmings-impact-on-extreme-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather</a> events become more common.



To help communities better understand the risks they face, researchers from Rice University’s <a href="https://cfar.rice.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Coastal Futures and Adaptive Resilience</a> have been investigating how flood-prone industrial areas across the country can better adapt to these threats.



Their interactive map highlights areas with elevated future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood risks</a> and identifies major polluters based on the EPA’s Toxic Release Inventory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flood-prone-polluters-nationwide">Flood-prone polluters nationwide </h2>



There are several hotspots nationwide where flood-prone polluters pose significant risks. Houston’s Ship Channel, Chicago’s waterfront steel industries, and the harbors at Los Angeles and New York/New Jersey are among the largest. 



However, as Helene demonstrated, smaller and less obvious areas can also be at risk from industrial chemical pollution. Inland regions, particularly in the mountains, can experience sudden, rapid runoff that turns calm rivers into raging torrents. 



For instance, during Helene, the French Broad River in Asheville, North Carolina, rose about 12 feet in just 12 hours, setting a new flood stage record.



When hurricanes or tropical storms approach the U.S., the experts’ maps highlight where major polluters are located within the storm’s projected path. These maps pinpoint hazardous facilities down to the exact address, helping communities stay informed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communities-must-take-action-to-be-prepared">Communities must take action to be prepared </h2>



However, identifying these sites is just the first step. Often, it’s up to the affected communities - many of which are already overburdened by environmental hazards and historically underserved - to raise concerns and push for action. 



These discussions need to happen long before disaster strikes. By understanding where risks are concentrated, communities can take steps to advocate for safer infrastructure and better preparedness.



In the face of a changing climate, with more extreme storms on the horizon, knowledge is power. Knowing the risks and being prepared can help communities protect themselves and build a more resilient future.



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Storms like Helene release toxic chemicals from industrial facilities

Hundreds of industrial facilities housing toxic chemicals found themselves in...

With the impacts of climate change growing increasingly tangible, one aspect that might see a significant transformation is winter weather.



A new study indicates that global warming has caused a shift in America's weather patterns that will lead to a future of wetter winters.



This is the conclusion of an in-depth study from the <a href="https://www.uic.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Chicago</a>. A team of researchers led by Akintomide Akinsanola used climate models to explore potential changes in U.S. winter precipitation by the end of the 21st century.



The focus was not only on overall winter precipitation but also on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a>, and the results were quite revealing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wetter-winters-will-become-common">Wetter winters will become common</h2>



It turns out that not only can we expect more abundant winter precipitation, but also a surge in extreme weather events across the country. 



In addition, there will be an increased occurrence of "very wet" winters - the kind that ranked in the top 5% of U.S. historical winter precipitation totals.



By century's end, these once uncommon winters may occur as often as once every four years in some parts of the U.S. 



There will also be a shift from snow to rain in many regions, leading to implications for agriculture, water resources, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-ways-to-prevent-flooding-caused-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>, and other environmentally sensitive areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-unpredictable">Predicting the unpredictable</h2>



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scorching-summer-of-2024-could-make-it-the-hottest-year-on-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">summer</a> and other seasons have uncertain precipitation projections, winter precipitation will be robustly intensified in the future, racing well beyond what historical data has shown us. 



The research was focused on 19 Earth system models across the seven U.S. subregions identified in the National Climate Assessment Report.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wetter-winters-by-region">Wetter winters by region </h2>



Across the entire United States, the study showed an increase in average winter precipitation of two to five percent per degree of warming by the end of the 21st century.



In terms of absolute change, the Northwest and Northeast U.S. will see the largest increases. Six out of the seven regions will also experience a higher frequency of extremely wet winters, with the Northeast and Midwest witnessing the sharpest increases.



The Southern Great Plains, made up of states like Texas and Oklahoma, is the only region where projected changes are very small and highly uncertain. 



In this part of the country, more frequent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heat-and-drought-extremes-are-now-occurring-simultaneously/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme dry events</a> will balance or outweigh the increase in extreme wet events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-winters-and-climate-change">Extreme winters and climate change</h2>



The findings highlight that changes in winter precipitation will have a significant nationwide impact.



The form of precipitation will likely change in multiple areas too; previous research projects that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeling-the-heat-rising-temperatures-push-the-limits-of-the-human-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rising temperatures</a> will cause more precipitation to fall as rain rather than snow, leading to diminished snow depth. 



This simultaneous decrease in snow and increase in rain will undoubtedly stress existing systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-a-changing-climate">Adapting to a changing climate</h2>



Infrastructure will need to undergo updates or upgrades, as we're not only dealing with the mean precipitation but also an increase in severe weather conditions.



Buildings and drainage systems will need improvements to manage potential floods and storm damage.



Coming to grips with our changing climate isn't just about mitigation, but also <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-climate-adaptation-lacks-coordination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adaptation</a>. As we move forward, it's critical that we consider these predicted shifts and adjust accordingly - both on an individual and community level.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-winter-flood-risks">Winter flood risks </h2>



As wetter winters become more frequent, the threat of winter flooding will rise - particularly in areas with aging infrastructure.



With more precipitation falling as rain instead of snow, regions accustomed to snowpack will face faster runoff and potential flood hazards. 



Local governments and communities will need to prioritize flood mitigation strategies, from improving drainage systems to reinforcing levees. 



Failure to prepare could result in widespread damage to homes, businesses, and ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-in-a-changing-climate">Wildlife in a changing climate</h2>



The shift from snow to rain will also affect wildlife that depends on snowy conditions. Species such as snowshoe hares, lynxes, and certain bird populations may struggle to adapt to the changing landscape.



As winters become wetter and milder, these animals could see significant habitat disruption, pushing some species toward migration or even endangerment. 



Conservation efforts will need to evolve to account for the new challenges posed by changing winter environments.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41612-024-00761-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">npj Climate and Atmospheric Science</a>.



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Winters are set to become much wetter in the United States

With the impacts of climate change growing increasingly tangible, one...

Mental health has become an overlooked casualty in the ongoing debate about climate change. While we focus on the tangible losses - wildfires, rising seas, and extreme weather - the silent impact on our mental well-being often goes unnoticed. 



The time has come for us to face the question: Is the changing climate influencing our mental health in unseen ways?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-toll-of-extreme-weather">Mental toll of extreme weather</h2>



Extreme weather events and relentless heatwaves not only threaten the environment but also place immense strain on mental health.&nbsp;



Communities across the globe are confronting the harsh reality of more frequent flooding from stronger storms and enduring seemingly endless days of triple-digit temperatures. The mental strain of these climate-driven events can be as intense as the heat itself.



This critical issue has drawn the attention of a dedicated team at&nbsp;<a href="https://tulane.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tulane University</a>, who have been awarded $1 million from the National Academy of Sciences’ Gulf Research Program.&nbsp;



The mission is to uncover how climate-induced factors may be affecting mental health outcomes in five vulnerable southern states: Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-mental-health">Climate change and mental health</h2>



Over the next three years, this pioneering project aims to dissect the relationship between climate change and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-the-mental-health-impacts-of-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a>.



The experts will pinpoint the communities which are most vulnerable to various climate-induced factors, such as heat, air pollution, tropical cyclones, power outages, precipitation, drought, and humidity.&nbsp;



The research team will then compare these data with mental health-related emergency room visits among Medicare and Medicaid patients to identify patterns and trends.



"The Gulf South is one of the most vulnerable places for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-takes-a-major-toll-on-childrens-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change impacts</a>&nbsp;in the United States," noted Mostafijur Rahman, the study’s principal investigator.&nbsp;



"However, there is a lack of comprehensive epidemiological research examining these impacts on the region. This study aims to fill that critical gap."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-mental-health-impacts">Mitigating mental health impacts</h2>



As part of the multifaceted examination, the study will evaluate access to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/surprising-mental-health-benefits-of-living-near-green-spaces/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green spaces</a>&nbsp;and air conditioning to examine any potential mitigating effects on mental health challenges.



"The key goals are to identify which climate factors have the strongest association with mental health outcomes and map the most vulnerable communities and populations,” said Rahman. 



“By pinpointing the most at-risk communities and effective interventions, this research will help inform targeted policies to mitigate the mental health impacts of our changing climate."



Launched this summer, the study is expected to continue through July 2027. The research will provide valuable insights about how the changing climate is silently shaping our mental health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-public-health-challenge">Critical public health challenge</h2>



As the world continues to warm, the mental health impacts of climate change are emerging as a critical&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-underestimated-threat-to-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public health</a> challenge.&nbsp;



The increased frequency of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-disasters-are-on-the-rise-but-hazard-plans-are-inadequate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural disasters</a>, rising temperatures, and deteriorating air quality are all taking a toll on individuals and communities. These climate-induced stressors don’t just cause physical destruction but also leave lasting emotional and psychological scars.&nbsp;



Losing homes, jobs, and loved ones in extreme weather can lead to anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorder.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gradual-changes-and-long-term-effects">Gradual changes and long-term effects</h2>



In addition to acute mental health challenges brought on by natural disasters, there are longer-term effects associated with the gradual changes in climate. 



People living in areas prone to prolonged heatwaves may experience chronic stress due to ongoing discomfort, disrupted sleep patterns, and a decrease in productivity. 



Research shows that higher temperatures can increase aggression and violence, adding to community stress. Social isolation, especially in rural or low-income areas lacking resources like air conditioning and safe public spaces, worsens mental strain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-climate-related-stress">Addressing climate-related stress</h2>



While most people recognize the physical dangers of extreme weather, we often forget about its impact on mental health. We need to improve environmental policies and offer mental health support for those facing climate-related stress.



Integrating mental health support into climate adaptation strategies will be essential for helping populations build resilience against both the immediate and long-term psychological effects of a changing climate.



Beyond the need for research, addressing the mental health effects of climate change will require innovative public policy and community engagement to help individuals prepare for an uncertain future.



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Mental health is a hidden casualty of climate change

Mental health has become an overlooked casualty in the ongoing...

Oceans are more than vast expanses of water that exceed the horizon. They are home to millions of creatures. Among those creatures, nesting deep underwater, are the vibrant, colorful coral reefs. 



These magical marine ecosystems are the unsung heroes of our planet. But did you know that coral reefs survival is intricately tied to our very own human rights?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-coral-survival-matters-to-humans">Why coral survival matters to humans</h2>



An estimated billion people depend on healthy coral reefs for their basic needs. From food to coastal protection and even tourism revenue, coral reefs make a massive contribution to our lives.



If the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-corals-can-help-them-recover-from-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs crumble</a> and their ecosystems vanish, the human cost might be too hefty to bear. The loss of marine ecosystems would mean a blow to our health and financial welfare.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-to-protect-reefs-is-diminishing">Time to protect reefs is diminishing</h2>



Enter Dr. Emma Camp from the University of Technology Sydney (<a href="https://www.uts.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UTS</a>). She has been exploring the murky waters of marine conservation.



Dr. Camp warns that the time we have to save coral reefs is diminishing quickly. Despite numerous protective actions, coral reefs worldwide continue on their path of degradation.



In 2024, a global coral bleaching event affected more than half of the world's coral reefs. Add to this the relentless onslaught of pollution, and we've got a time bomb ticking away. As Dr. Camp noted, “the loss of coral ecosystems negatively impacts both humans and nonhumans.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-last-hope-for-coral-reef-rescue">Last hope for coral reef rescue?</h2>



So how do we untangle this knotty issue? According to Dr. Camp, we need to change our approach. We need to tackle coral conservation through the lens of human rights.



Consider it the human face of coral loss. This way, we can inspire a profound transformation in governance at all levels - local, national, and global.



Dr. Camp is the lead author of a paper titled "Coral reef protection is fundamental to human rights," which is co-authored by experts from the <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University at Buffalo</a>, State University of New York (<a href="https://www.suny.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SUNY</a>), and the <a href="https://www.uni-konstanz.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Konstanz</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-reef-conservation">Rethinking reef conservation </h2>



Just this year, the United Nations General Assembly affirmed our human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. However, this right is hanging by a thread in the face of a rapidly changing climate, pollution and biodiversity loss.



The International Coral Reef Society’s elected President, Professor Christian Voolstra, elaborated on the issue. He highlighted the findings of a recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report. If the Earth heats up to even 1.5°C, most of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dead-coral-skeletons-prevent-reefs-from-recovering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral</a>-dominated systems will be a thing of past.



Hence, we urgently need to rethink our strategy for reef conservation. We need to shift gears and hasten our efforts to shield these crucial ecosystems for present and future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-rights-based-approach-to-conservation">Human-rights based approach to conservation </h2>



“In other fields, applying a human-rights based approach to environmental protection has advanced both social and environmental conservation,” said co-author Dr Genevieve Wilkinson from UTS Law, a founder of the Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Network.



“A rights-based approach embeds non-discrimination, empowerment and participation so that litigation is not the only available avenue for participation and empowerment of vulnerable rightsholders. States must be accountable to obligations to protect human rights and find just solutions.



Dr. Wilkinson noted that a human rights-based approach to coral reef protection is an important opportunity to expedite reef protection while simultaneously advancing climate justice for humans and non-humans.



With numerous governments failing to address climate change effectively, our rights are under threat. But Dr Wilkinson believes that implementing a human rights-based approach to coral reef protection might just be the game-changer we need.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-rights-of-low-lying-reef-nations">Human rights of low-lying reef nations</h2>



The study highlights the 2022 decision in Billy v. Australia. It's the first successful climate litigation framed through the language of rights. 



“The case was submitted by a group of eight Torres Strait Islanders, and six of their children. It demonstrates how states’ failure to effectively address climate change can threaten the human rights of low-lying reef nation inhabitants who rely on healthy coral reefs to ensure their way of life," said Dr. Wilkinson.



“Coral bleaching and its damaging impact on crayfish habitats were specifically identified as a harmful climate change impact by the Human Rights Committee."



“The Committee determined that failure to implement adequate climate change <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crown-of-thorns-starfish-thrive-in-degraded-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adaptation measures</a> by the Australian Government violated the Torres Strait Islander inhabitants’ rights to culture and to private and family life, contrary to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-reefs-and-human-rights">Coral reefs and human rights</h2>



The United Nations’ High Commissioner for Human Rights calls the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution the greatest future challenge for human rights worldwide.



As we navigate these troubled waters, it's important to remember that protecting our coral reefs is more than an environmental issue. It's a matter of safeguarding our human rights. 



Will we rise to the occasion and fight for our future or will we watch as our vibrant marine ecosystems turn into lifeless, bleached skeletons? The choice is ours.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.17512" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Protecting coral reefs is a matter of humans rights

Oceans are more than vast expanses of water that exceed...

This summer, Arctic sea ice has retreated to near-record lows in the Northern Hemisphere, continuing the decades-long trend of shrinking and thinning ice cover in the Arctic Ocean. 



This is the conclusion of researchers at <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and the <a href="https://nsidc.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Snow and Ice Data Center</a> (NSIDC).&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-melting-and-less-ice-formation-nbsp">More melting and less ice formation&nbsp;</h2>



The amount of frozen seawater in the Arctic changes throughout the year as ice melts and refreezes between seasons. Scientists monitor these fluctuations to understand how the Arctic responds over time to rising air and sea temperatures and longer melting seasons.



Over the past several decades, satellites have consistently observed more melting during the summer and less ice formation in the winter.&nbsp;



Tracking sea ice changes in real time has revealed wide-ranging impacts - from losses and changes in polar wildlife <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-is-tracking-endangered-animal-habitats-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a> to effects on local Arctic communities and international trade routes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimal-extent-of-arctic-sea-ice-nbsp">Minimal extent of Arctic sea ice&nbsp;</h2>



This year, Arctic sea ice shrank to a minimal extent of about 1.65 million square miles (4.28 million square kilometers).&nbsp;



That's approximately 750,000 square miles (1.94 million square kilometers) below the 1981 to 2010 end-of-summer average of 2.4 million square miles (6.22 million square kilometers).&nbsp;



To put it in perspective, the reduction in ice cover spans an area larger than the state of Alaska. Sea ice extent is defined as the total area of the ocean with at least 15% ice concentration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-downward-trend-in-arctic-sea-ice-nbsp">Downward trend in Arctic sea ice&nbsp;</h2>



While this year's minimum remained above the all-time low of about 1.31 million square miles set in September 2012, the overall trend since the late 1970s has been a downward one. According to NSIDC, the Arctic has been losing about 30,000 square miles of sea ice per year.



Scientists measure sea ice extent using data from passive microwave sensors aboard satellites in the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program, along with historical data from the Nimbus-7 satellite, jointly operated by NASA and the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a> (NOAA).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-ice-is-getting-younger">Sea ice is getting younger</h2>



Nathan Kurtz, lab chief of NASA's Cryospheric Sciences Laboratory at the agency's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a>, noted that sea ice isn't just shrinking - it's also getting younger.&nbsp;



“Today, the overwhelming majority of ice in the Arctic Ocean is thinner, first-year ice, which is less able to survive the warmer months. There is far, far less ice that is three years or older now,” said Kurtz.&nbsp;



Measurements collected with spaceborne altimeters, including NASA's ICESat and ICESat-2 satellites, have found that much of the oldest, thickest ice has already been lost.&nbsp;



New research from NASA's <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> in Southern California shows that in the central Arctic, away from the coasts, fall sea ice now averages around 4.2 feet thick, down from a peak of 8.8 feet in 1980.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-downward-trend-in-antarctic-sea-ice">Downward trend in Antarctic sea ice</h2>



Meanwhile, sea ice in the southern polar regions has also been unusually low. Around <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-levels-in-antarctica-have-reached-an-unprecedented-low/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica</a>, scientists are tracking near-record-low sea ice at a time when it should have been expanding during the Southern Hemisphere's darkest and coldest months.&nbsp;



Ice around the continent is on track to be just over 6.6 million square miles (16.96 million square kilometers), compared to the average maximum extent of 7.22 million square miles (18.71 million square kilometers) between 1981 and 2010.



This meager growth prolongs a recent downward trend. Prior to 2014, Antarctic sea ice was increasing slightly by about 1% per decade.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-conditions-in-the-southern-ocean">Shifting conditions in the Southern Ocean</h2>



However, following a spike in 2014, ice growth has declined dramatically. Scientists are working to understand the cause of this reversal. The recurring loss hints at a long-term shift in conditions in the Southern Ocean, likely resulting from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-permafrost-melt-devastating-role-accelerating-global-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global climate change</a>.



“While changes in sea ice have been dramatic in the Arctic over several decades, Antarctic sea ice was relatively stable. But that has changed,” said Walt Meier, a sea ice scientist at NSIDC. “It appears that global warming has come to the Southern Ocean.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vicious-cycle-of-sea-ice-loss">Vicious cycle of sea ice loss</h2>



In both the Arctic and Antarctic, the loss of sea ice accelerates further ice loss. This happens because bright sea ice reflects most of the sun's energy back into space, while open ocean water absorbs about 90% of it.&nbsp;



With more ocean exposed to sunlight, water temperatures rise, further delaying sea ice growth - a cycle known as ice-albedo feedback.



Overall, the decline of sea ice contributes to increased heat in the Arctic, where temperatures have risen about four times the global average, Kurtz concluded.



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Arctic sea ice is headed toward a historic low

This summer, Arctic sea ice has retreated to near-record lows...

An ancient log buried for nearly four millennia is providing scientists with critical insights into how nature can preserve carbon for thousands of years. 



The research has the potential to transform our climate change mitigation strategies by offering a low-cost option for carbon storage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preservation-of-an-ancient-log">Preservation of an ancient log</h2>



The log's preservation offers a glimpse into a technique that could reshape the way we think about carbon sequestration and help address one of the most pressing issues of our time - global warming.



"Six-times more carbon dioxide (CO2) is removed each year by terrestrial photosynthesis than fossil fuel emissions. However, the carbon is mostly returned to the atmosphere by decomposition," wrote the researchers.



"We found a 3,775-year-old ancient wood log buried 2 meters belowground that was preserved far beyond its expected lifetime."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-storage-capacity">Remarkable storage capacity</h2>



Led by Professor Ning Zeng in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science at the <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a>, the study revealed that the log had lost less than 5% of its carbon dioxide content. 



According to the researchers, this remarkable carbon storage capability is mainly due to the log being buried in low-permeability clay soil.



“The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-super-black-wonder-wood-called-nyxlon-absorbs-almost-all-light/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wood</a> is nice and solid - you could probably make a piece of furniture out of it,” noted Zeng.



During a pilot project in 2013, Zeng and his team stumbled upon the ancient log while digging a trench to test the wood vaulting concept in Quebec.



“When the excavator pulled a log out of the ground and threw it over to us, the three ecologists from <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a> immediately identified it as Eastern red cedar,” said Zeng. “I remember standing there thinking, ‘Wow, here’s the evidence that we need!’”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wood-vaulting-a-new-climate-solution">Wood vaulting: A new climate solution?</h2>



This surprising discovery has opened up new possibilities for a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beccs-a-divisive-energy-technology-hailed-as-a-climate-solution-by-some-and-worse-than-coal-by-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate solution</a> called "wood vaulting." 



The strategy involves burying non-commercially viable wood - such as old construction materials, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dead-trees-in-the-arctic-store-massive-amount-of-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseased trees</a>, or even discarded furniture -- under specific conditions to prevent its decomposition and stop carbon dioxide from being released back into the atmosphere.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ancient-log_eastern-red-cedar-log_Zeng_Wood_credit-UMaryland_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ancient-log_eastern-red-cedar-log_Zeng_Wood_credit-UMaryland_1s.webp" alt="Excavated in Canada, this Eastern red cedar log turned out to be remarkably well-preserved for its age: 3,775 years old. Credit: University of Maryland" class="wp-image-1946127" style="width:300px;height:auto"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Excavated in Canada, this Eastern red cedar log turned out to be remarkably well-preserved for its age: 3,775 years old. Credit: University of Maryland</figcaption></figure>



“People tend to think, ‘Who doesn’t know how to dig a hole and bury some wood?’ But think about how many wooden coffins were buried in human history. How many of them survived? For a timescale of hundreds or thousands of years, we need the right conditions," said Zeng. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vital-role-of-soil-conditions">Vital role of soil conditions</h2>



The study highlights the importance of soil conditions in preserving the wood of ancient log. The low-permeability clay soil in Quebec was crucial in keeping out oxygen, fungi, and insects that typically cause wood to decompose.



“There is a lot of geological and archeological evidence of preserved wood from hundreds to millions of years ago, but the focus of those studies was not ‘How can we engineer a wood vault to preserve that wood?’” Zeng noted. 



The research demonstrates that wood vaulting could be a viable, low-cost climate solution, especially in regions where clay soil is abundant.



Shortly after the Quebec excavation, Zeng’s collaborators at Montreal’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) helped determine the log's age through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radiocarbon-could-be-key-in-predicting-earths-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dating</a>. 



In 2021, UMD Professor Liangbing Hu analyzed the log’s microscopic structure, revealing that it had retained much of its original carbon content. This confirms the effectiveness of the clay soil preservation method.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-of-the-wood-vaulting-technique">Potential of the wood vaulting technique </h2>



As Zeng continues to refine the wood vaulting technique, he remains optimistic about its potential to help mitigate climate change, noting that this approach works best in conjunction with other strategies like reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 



“It’s quite an exciting discovery,” Zeng said. “The urgency of climate change has become such a prominent issue, so there was even more motivation to get this analysis going.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-solutions-from-an-ancient-log">Climate solutions from an ancient log</h2>



As research progresses, Zeng and his team will continue to explore the broader applications of wood vaulting as a viable climate solution.



The ancient log’s remarkable preservation offers valuable insights into how we might slow the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-fires-have-released-a-billion-tons-of-carbon-dioxide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">release of carbon dioxide</a> on a larger scale. 



By replicating the natural conditions that preserved this log for nearly four millennia, researchers aim to implement wood vaulting in regions with suitable soil conditions, potentially providing an affordable and effective method for carbon sequestration.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adm8133" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Ancient log inspires a simple yet effective climate solution

An ancient log buried for nearly four millennia is providing...

Exposure to certain pollutants, such as fine particles (PM2.5) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), during pregnancy and childhood has been linked to alterations in the microstructure of the brain's white matter.&nbsp;



Some of these effects persist into adolescence, according to a new study led by the <a href="https://www.isglobal.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona Institute for Global Health</a> (ISGlobal). 



White matter is an essential brain structure responsible for connecting different brain regions. The findings highlight the urgent need to address <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a> as a public health concern, particularly for pregnant women and children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-and-brain-development">Air pollution and brain development</h2>



There is mounting evidence suggesting that air pollution negatively impacts neurodevelopment in children.&nbsp;



While earlier research using imaging techniques has explored how air pollutants affect white matter, these studies were limited to snapshots at a single timepoint. They also failed to track participants over the course of childhood.



“Following participants throughout childhood and including two neuroimaging assessments for each child would shed new light on whether the effects of air pollution on white matter persist, attenuate, or worsen,” explained study senior author Mònica Guxens. This is precisely what her team set out to investigate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-childhood-exposure-to-various-pollutants-nbsp">Childhood exposure to various pollutants&nbsp;</h2>



The study examined over 4,000 children who had been followed from birth as part of the Generation R Study in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.&nbsp;



The research team estimated the children's exposure to 14 different air pollutants during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pregnancy-may-speed-up-aging-in-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy</a> and childhood based on where their families lived. 



For 1,314 of these children, the researchers were able to analyze data from two brain scans - one at around age 10 and the other at age 14 - to assess changes in the microstructure of white matter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-white-matter-development-nbsp">Changes in white matter development&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis revealed that exposure to pollutants like fine particles (PM2.5) and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-nitrogen-oxide-pollution-could-boost-crop-yields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen oxides</a> (NOx) was associated with differences in white matter development. 



Specifically, higher exposure to PM2.5 during pregnancy, and to PM2.5, PM10, PM2.5-10, and NOx during childhood, correlated with lower levels of fractional anisotropy (FA) - a measure of how water molecules diffuse within the brain.&nbsp;



In more developed brains, water flows more in one direction, leading to higher fractional anisotropy values. The study found that this impact persisted into adolescence, with evidence of long-term effects on brain development.&nbsp;



Each increase in air pollution exposure corresponded to a developmental delay in fractional anisotropy equivalent to over five months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-small-particles-reaching-the-brain">Are small particles reaching the brain?</h2>



“We think that the lower fractional anisotropy is likely the result of changes in myelin, the protective sheath that forms around nerves, rather than changes in the structure or packaging of the nerve fibers,” said lead author Michelle Kusters, a researcher at ISGlobal.&nbsp;



The exact mechanism by which air pollutants affect myelin remains unclear, but it may involve small particles reaching the brain or inflammatory responses triggered by particles entering the lungs.&nbsp;



This process could lead to neuroinflammation, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-green-space-reduces-oxidative-stress-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxidative stress</a>, and, ultimately, neuronal death, as seen in animal studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-impacts-on-white-matter">Additional impacts on white matter</h2>



The experts also discovered that some pollutants influenced another measure of white matter, called mean diffusivity (MD), which typically decreases as the brain matures.&nbsp;



Higher exposure to pollutants like silicon in fine particles (PM2.5) during pregnancy was associated with initially higher mean diffusivity, which then decreased more rapidly as the children aged. This suggests that certain effects of air pollution may lessen over time.



“Even if the size of the effects were small, this can have a meaningful impact on a population scale,” Guxens said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stricter-pollution-guidelines-are-needed">Stricter pollution guidelines are needed</h2>



The researchers also found that these effects occurred at levels of PM2.5 and PM10 above the World Health Organization's recommended limits but below those currently allowed by the European Union.&nbsp;



“Our study provides support to the need for more stringent European guidelines on air pollution, which are expected to be approved soon by the European Parliament,” Guxens added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lasting-changes-in-white-matter">Lasting changes in white matter</h2>



In a previous study, Guxens and her team demonstrated that white matter microstructure could also be affected by early exposure to heat and cold, particularly among children living in lower-income neighborhoods.



“Even though we found an attenuation of the initial association between air pollution and higher MD in early adolescence, residential outdoor air pollution exposure during pregnancy and childhood was also associated with lasting changes in white matter microstructure across adolescence,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Each increase in exposure to air pollution corresponded to more than a 5-month delay in the development of fractional anisotropy, noted the researchers.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2024.119828" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research</a>. 



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Air pollution impacts brain development in children

Exposure to certain pollutants, such as fine particles (PM2.5) and...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHHxOej4QfE
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic pollution.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invisible-threat-in-urban-air">Invisible threat in urban air</h2>



City dwellers face an unseen danger with every breath. New findings from Emory University researchers suggest that fine particulate matter from <a href="http://earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-might-increase-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicle emissions may significantly elevate the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease</a>. The study examined brain tissue samples from 224 individuals who had confirmed diagnoses and volunteered their brains for scientific research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disturbing-connections-emerge">Disturbing connections emerge</h2>



Scientists analyzed neuritic plaques — protein clusters that characterize Alzheimer's — while mapping each participant's exposure to PM2.5 particles based on residential location and surrounding traffic density. The correlation proved more alarming than anticipated. Individuals experiencing higher pollution exposure showed nearly double the likelihood of elevated plaque accumulation in brain tissue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-matters">Timing matters</h2>



The research team discovered that pollution exposure during the final year before death demonstrated the strongest association with brain changes. This timeline suggests relatively rapid impacts from environmental toxins on neural health. The connection remained robust even after accounting for various demographic and health factors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-vulnerability-patterns">Genetic vulnerability patterns</h2>



Perhaps most concerning, people lacking the APOE gene—which naturally predisposes individuals to Alzheimer's — exhibited more than twice the susceptibility to pollution-related brain damage. Study author Dr. Anke Huels noted this indicates environmental elements like air contamination could trigger the disease in cases where hereditary factors don't explain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-implications">Public health implications</h2>



These findings, published in <a href="https://www.neurology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a>, underscore the critical importance of air quality regulations in urban planning. The research suggests that implementing stricter emission controls and promoting alternative transportation could serve as powerful tools in Alzheimer's prevention.



As cities worldwide grapple with growing traffic congestion and aging populations, this study highlights an urgent need for comprehensive approaches to environmental health that protect both our lungs and our minds.



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHHxOej4QfE Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.



"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-astrobiology">Implications for astrobiology</h2>



The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.



The research, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.



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Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0DuSr87SHY
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-earth-became-a-frozen-wasteland">When Earth became a frozen wasteland</h2>



Imagine Earth as a giant snowball, frozen solid from the North Pole to the equator. This wasn't the plot of a science fiction movie – it was our planet's reality 700 million years ago during an extreme ice age that has puzzled scientists for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-discovery">The discovery</h2>



Australian researchers from the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a> have finally cracked one of geology's greatest mysteries: what caused the Sturtian glaciation and why it persisted for an unprecedented 57 million years. This period occurred long before dinosaurs roamed the Earth, when no complex plants or multicellular animals existed.



Dr. Adriana Dutkiewicz, the study's lead author, describes a world completely unlike today's climate. "Imagine the Earth almost completely frozen over," she explained. "The planet was blanketed in ice from poles to equator, and temperatures plunged."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-combination-of-climate-factors">The combination of climate factors</h2>



The research team discovered that this massive freeze resulted from a "double whammy" of geological events. First, plate tectonic activity reduced volcanic carbon dioxide emissions to historically low levels. Volcanic activity typically releases CO2 into the atmosphere, creating a greenhouse effect that keeps Earth warm.



Simultaneously, weathering of volcanic rocks in what is now Canada actively absorbed atmospheric CO2, further reducing greenhouse gas concentrations. When atmospheric carbon dioxide levels dropped below 200 parts per million – less than half of today's levels – glaciation engulfed the entire planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-climate-implications">Modern climate implications</h2>



Published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/geology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a>, this research provides crucial insights into Earth's climate system. While geological climate changes occur over millions of years, the study emphasizes that human-induced climate change is happening at a pace ten times faster than previously observed natural changes, highlighting the urgent need to understand our planet's delicate climate balance.



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0DuSr87SHY 57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists....

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXXGGiynIjs
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Greenland is not sinking. In fact, it is the opposite.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-contrasting-climate-response">A contrasting climate response</h2>



Most coastal towns are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sinking-land-will-intensify-the-effects-of-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preparing for higher sea levels</a>, but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-no-longer-has-to-worry-about-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland presents</a> a different scenario during climate change. The ground there is rising at a remarkable rate. Over the past decade, some areas have lifted about 20 centimeters, which translates to roughly 2 meters per century. This rate significantly exceeds current projections for sea level rise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-rebound-process-through-climate-change">Geological rebound process through climate change</h2>



The mechanism behind this phenomenon is straightforward. As the ice sheet melts, the immense weight is removed from the bedrock, causing the land to rebound upward. This process resembles the way compressed material springs back when pressure is released.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-monitoring-networks">Scientific monitoring networks</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.dtu.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Technical University of Denmark</a> are documenting this uplift using the GNET network, consisting of 61 GPS stations positioned around Greenland's coast. These sensors can detect movement with millimeter precision, providing detailed measurements of the ongoing changes.



The data reveal that current uplift rates exceed the gradual rebound occurring since the last ice age ended approximately 12,000 years ago. This acceleration corresponds directly with increased ice sheet melting rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coastal-transformation">Coastal Transformation</h2>



This uplift is actively reshaping Greenland's coastline. New islands and rocky formations, called "skerries," are emerging as previously submerged land surfaces rise above the water level. This represents a notable contrast to global concerns about rising seas.



The study, published in Geophysical Research Letters, demonstrates the varied regional impacts of climate change. While many locations face rising water levels, Greenland's bedrock is literally rising above the surrounding seas.



The full study was recently published in <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1029/2023GL104851" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXXGGiynIjs Greenland is not sinking. In fact, it is the...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSM3EVeGHJU
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Companies like MindStudio help companies train their employees to implement the latest AI Agent building platform.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-agent-training-transforms-the-workplace-fear-factor-into-a-competitive-advantage">AI agent training transforms the workplace 'fear factor' into a competitive advantage</h2>



Organizations that offer comprehensive artificial intelligence training to their workers find remarkable value that extends well beyond basic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mind-wandering-might-be-more-productive-than-you-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">productivity improvements</a>. Emerging research demonstrates that carefully crafted AI training programs <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-does-not-replace-human-creativity-but-enhances-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enhance</a> corporate performance, lower operational costs, and dramatically improve employee psychological well-being by turning workplace uncertainty into professional empowerment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-widespread-ai-anxiety-crisis-among-us">Addressing the widespread 'AI anxiety' crisis among us</h2>



A staggering 53% of employees expressed concern that the use of AI tools to automate work tasks could make them appear disposable to their employers, according to <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microsoft</a>'s 2024 workplace survey. Such pervasive worry about being substituted by machines has caused what researchers have termed "AI technostress" – a psychological state that can result in occupational burnout and poorer mental well-being.



Data published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/palcomms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Humanities and Social Sciences Communications</a> showed that belief in AI learning ability was a moderator in the link between technology adoption and work pressure, and higher confidence significantly lowered negative psychological responses. Workers provided ample training to become competent with AI software have significantly lower stress.



Companies like <a href="https://www.mindstudio.ai/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MindStudio</a> have platforms for building what are known as "AI Agents". In essence, AI Agents are simply tools that employees can build for themselves or their teams quickly and inexpensively. MindStudio will even train entire companies, from the CEO on down, at no cost. By letting MindStudio empower employees, companies avoid hiring more IT staff, buying more software, and implementing solutions to problems that do not exist.



MindStudio even has partners locally for companies, like <a href="http://www.dominnus.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dominnus</a> with offices in the Carolinas, California, and Denver, to help build AI Agents and support employees as they become resident AI experts for their organization. The training provided by MindStudio is applicable across other AI Agent building platforms as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-productivity-through-focused-learning">Revolutionary productivity through focused learning</h2>



Organizations that implement large-scale AI training programs achieve dramatic outcomes. Employees performed tasks significantly better when they utilized AI support compared to when they didn't, according to <a href="https://www.nngroup.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nielsen Norman Group</a> research findings. Their study documented productivity increases of 66% for a variety of professional tasks.



Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis research finds workers record 33% higher productivity in time working with generative AI tools. The benefit is equivalent to 5.4% of work time savings for AI users – around 2.2 hours per week for full-time workers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-well-being-benefits-through-ai-competence">Psychological well-being benefits through AI competence</h2>



The emotional transformation when employees are provided with proper technology training is a fundamental transformation from fear to professional confidence. A survey of 600 employees across industries, carried out by ScienceDirect, proved that AI capabilities strengthen work environment commitment and improve job satisfaction.



A <a href="https://www.lut.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LUT University</a> study discovered that AI adoption has no direct effect on workers' well-being but does so indirectly through working conditions like task optimization and safety protocols. Strategically deployed AI that involves correct training can actually increase workplace mental well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-replacement-anxiety-to-partnership-confidence">From 'replacement anxiety' to 'partnership confidence'</h2>



Although 35% of those interviewed in recent McKinsey studies were concerned about workforce displacement, firms with large-scale training initiatives witness such fears dissipate quickly. The World Economic Forum found that two out of three respondents believe AI competencies will enhance their career prospects and job marketability.



This shift from fear to trust has measurable implications for job satisfaction. Applied Sciences research indicates AI can create tailored wellness programs based on individual employee requirements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-financial-benefits-of-increased-retention">Financial benefits of increased retention</h2>



The mental health advantages of AI learning have a direct impact on organizational bottom lines in the form of a positive feedback cycle with high retention of employees. Recent ROI research validates that artificial intelligence learning has a beneficial impact on employee turnover and satisfaction levels.



PriceWaterhouseCoopers' research documents 20% to 30% improvements in productivity, market speed, and revenue in organizations that attempt systematic AI adoption through comprehensive training.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-advantages-of-ai-enabled-teams">Environmental advantages of AI-enabled teams</h2>



AI training has unforeseen environmental benefits as it makes the work environment more efficient. According to a study in Scientific Reports, the carbon footprint in writing and illustrating work is significantly lower when AI performs it compared to humans. AI software produces 130 to 1,500 times less CO2 equivalent per page of text created than human authors.



In addition, AI-driven remote work functionality significantly reduces environmental impact. Research by Cornell University and Microsoft indicates that remote workers reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 54% by not commuting daily to offices. Hybrid workers working remotely two to four days a week can reduce their carbon footprint by 11% to 29%.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cumulative-organizational-advantages">Cumulative organizational advantages</h2>



The compounding gains of better mental well-being, reduced turnover, increased productivity, and environmental benefits flow to enterprises from the pairing. McKinsey analysis estimates the long-term AI potential at $4.4 trillion in incremental productivity growth opportunity from business use cases.



As of now, 75% of knowledge workers globally utilize generative AI, mirroring widespread adoption patterns. Organizations that provide organized training and assistance see the most favorable results in productivity, worker satisfaction, and ecological sustainability.



The research overwhelmingly indicates that companies that invest in proper AI education, like that offered through <a href="https://www.mindstudio.ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MindStudio</a>, establish win-win scenarios where employees are both more empowered and less stressed, and companies enjoy the gains of increased productivity, reduced turnover, and improved mental health outcomes throughout their workforce.



For more on MindStudio's free AI training for companies, visit the website's of MindStudio and Dominnus from the links below.



The research was published across a variety of peer-reviewed journals, including <a href="https://www.nature.com/palcomms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Humanities and Social Sciences Communications</a>, <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/artificial-intelligence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence</a>, and <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/journal/applsci">Applied Sciences</a>.



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MindStudio.AI: <a href="https://www.mindstudio.ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.mindstudio.ai</a>



Dominnus: <a href="https://www.dominnus.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.dominnus.com</a>

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSM3EVeGHJU Companies like MindStudio help companies train their employees to...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HDXqTGEmi4
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Scientists give plants superpowers against bacterial disease</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-natural-solution-to-disease-through-crop-modification">A natural solution to disease through crop modification.</h2>



The agricultural industry stands at a crossroads between productivity and environmental responsibility, and crop modification often carries a negative connotation. While chemical pesticides have long been the go-to solution for crop protection, their harmful effects on ecosystems and human health have prompted scientists to seek alternatives. The recent breakthrough by <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a> researchers offers a promising path forward through the precise manipulation of plant-associated microbial communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-science-behind-microbial-partnerships">The science behind microbial partnerships</h2>



Plants naturally harbor diverse ecosystems of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that function as biological allies. These microscopic partners contribute to disease resistance, nutrient absorption, and stress tolerance. However, until now, scientists lacked the tools to deliberately reshape these communities to enhance crop protection.



The Southampton team's approach centered on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/engineered-plant-microbiomes-the-future-of-crop-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modifying lignin biosynthesis genes in rice plants</a>. This strategic intervention altered the plant's metabolic output, creating conditions that favored beneficial bacterial populations while suppressing harmful ones. The result was a living defense system embedded within the plant itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-global-food-security">Implications for global food security</h2>



The successful demonstration against Xanthomonas oryzae, the pathogen responsible for bacterial blight in rice, represents more than a laboratory achievement. Rice feeds nearly half the world's population, and bacterial blight causes devastating crop losses annually. Traditional control methods rely heavily on pesticides that contaminate soil and water systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beyond-disease-resistance">Looking Beyond Disease Resistance</h2>



While disease protection represents the immediate application, the research framework opens doors to broader agricultural improvements. Future developments could engineer microbiomes to enhance nutrient uptake, reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. This dual benefit addresses both crop productivity and environmental sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward">The path forward</h2>



As this technology advances from laboratory to field applications, it promises to reshape sustainable agriculture. The ability to program plants with their own biological defense systems could herald a new era where crops protect themselves naturally, reducing chemical inputs while maintaining yields necessary for global food security.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-44335-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HDXqTGEmi4 Scientists give plants superpowers against bacterial disease A natural...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



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Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

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A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



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Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer 



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> is focused on the melt ponds that emerge during the spring and summer on the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere.



"Melt ponds are vast pools of open water that form on both sea ice and ice sheets and are visible as turquoise-blue pools of water in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image," says ESA.



"When snow and ice melts atop glaciers, water flows in channels and streams and collects in depressions on the surface. These melt ponds can speed up the melting of the surrounding ice since they greatly reduce the ice’s ability to reflect sunlight."



"This can create a positive feedback where an increasing number of melt ponds absorb more heat which causes ice cover to melt even faster."



According to ESA, Greenland has been hit with a late-season heatwave that began in early September. This caused the type of melt event that usually occurs in the middle of summer.



"In a recent paper published in Nature Climate Change, scientists found that major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now ‘inevitable’ even if the burning of fossil fuels were to halt overnight," says ESA. "Using satellite observations of Greenland ice loss and ice cap from 2000 to 2019, the team found the losses will lead to a minimum rise of 27 cm regardless of climate change."



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes how Earth is unique in our solar system for its ability to sustain liquid water on its surface. But now, the water cycle is shifting as the climate warms, and scientists must find ways to predict how these changes will affect water availability.



Overall, 96 percent of Earth's water is saltwater, and nearly all of freshwater is found in ice and groundwater. These sources of water are linked as it passes through solid, liquid and gas phases.



In a warmer climate, the water cycle will be transformed. It will be easier for water to evaporate and form clouds, and storms will become more frequent and intense. Some regions will get too much water, while others will be left without enough water. In addition, soil moisture will be lost - which threatens food security.



Scientists are using satellite data from over the last 40 years to track changes that are happening in the water cycle. This will ultimately help us prepare for extreme events and better manage our water resources, according to ESA.



Video Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

[sendtonews key="fxH3eJHEkQ-2010196-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Saturn,-,High,Resolution,3d,Images,Presents,Planets,Of,The

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard Space Flight Center</a> features images of Saturn from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. The photographs capture the start of the mysterious "spoke season" on Saturn - when unexplained features appear on its rings. 



According to NASA, both the cause of the spokes and their seasonal variability have yet to be fully explained by planetary scientists.



"Like Earth, Saturn is tilted on its axis and therefore has four seasons, though because of Saturn's much larger orbit, each season lasts approximately seven Earth years. Equinox occurs when the rings are tilted edge-on to the Sun," explains NASA.



"The spokes disappear when it is near summer or winter solstice on Saturn. (When the Sun appears to reach either its highest or lowest latitude in the northern or southern hemisphere of a planet.) As the autumnal equinox of Saturn's northern hemisphere on May 6, 2025, draws near, the spokes are expected to become increasingly prominent and observable."



Experts believe that the spokes may be a product of the planet's variable magnetic field. When magnetic fields interact with solar wind, an electrically charged environment is created. This phenomenon is visible on Earth as the northern lights.&nbsp;



"Scientists think that the smallest, dust-sized icy ring particles can become charged as well, which temporarily levitates those particles above the rest of the larger icy particles and boulders in the rings," says NASA.



The spokes were first observed in the early 1980s by NASA's Voyager mission. Depending on the angle of the rings, the spokes can appear dark or light.



"Thanks to Hubble's OPAL program, which is building an archive of data on the outer solar system planets, we will have longer dedicated time to study Saturn’s spokes this season than ever before," said NASA senior planetary scientist Amy Simon, head of the Hubble Outer Planet Atmospheres Legacy (OPAL) program.



"Despite years of excellent observations by the Cassini mission, the precise beginning and duration of the spoke season is still unpredictable, rather like predicting the first storm during hurricane season."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

[sendtonews key="Ccjk8KEMzv-2550719-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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