Tiny fragments known as microplastics are finding their way into the Gulf of Mexico, a region teeming with marine life and critical to global seafood supplies. 



New research shows just how much these particles are concentrating in waters where sea turtles, red snapper, and dolphins live.



Scientists used computer models to track the movement of microplastics in the northern Gulf of Mexico over a three-year period. The results not only reveal where these pollutants end up but also explain which sources matter most.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rivers-drive-the-plastic-crisis">Rivers drive the plastic crisis</h2>



The study challenges a long-standing assumption about where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-escaping-from-water-treatment-plants/">microplastics</a> come from. Wastewater treatment plants have often been blamed as major culprits. Instead, the modeling shows rivers are the main pathway carrying plastic particles into the Gulf.



“The Gulf of Mexico, especially its northern part near the southern U.S., is increasingly polluted by tiny plastic particles called microplastics,” noted study co-author Annalisa Bracco, CMCC scientist.



“We used computer models to study how these plastics move over short periods (about a month) across three years. We looked at different sizes and types of plastics and found that most pollution comes from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-levels-of-microplastics-found-in-every-major-european-river/">rivers</a> and not from wastewater treatment plants.”



The team found that different plastics behave differently once they enter the water. Heavier ones sink and settle on the seafloor. Lighter particles float and resist the pull of waves, traveling longer distances. 



The research also identified a hotspot of microplastic buildup west of the Mississippi River Delta - an area that happens to be vital for many marine species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-critical-habitats">Microplastics in critical habitats</h2>



The study didn’t stop at mapping plastic movements. It overlaid pollution patterns with detailed data on where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-found-in-every-aquatic-species-tested/">marine animals</a> live. This step created a clear picture of how microplastics overlap with critical habitats.



Bracco calls this the most important outcome of the work. The overlap highlights risks not only for wildlife but also for people. 



“The fact that plastic impacts regions of intense fishery (which means we’re ingesting some) is often the best way to activate a policy response or gain public interest,” she said.



This connection between pollution and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seafood-is-underestimated-source-of-pfas-exposure-in-humans/">seafood</a> matters. The Gulf of Mexico supports major commercial fisheries. If fish and shellfish in these waters carry microplastics, those particles could reach dinner plates around the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-roadmap-for-action">A roadmap for action</h2>



The research involved not just seasoned scientists but also an undergraduate student from <a href="https://www.gatech.edu/">Georgia Tech</a> who contributed species distribution data. Their combined efforts go beyond documenting the problem. 



By identifying specific pollution sources, the study offers tools for targeting cleanup and prevention.



“It is important to show how state-of-the-art modeling tools can be used to address coastal problems that interest the general public,” said Bracco. 



“It is somewhat easier to raise awareness of the risks associated with plastic pollution (just one of the many anthropogenic threats) when linking it to fish, turtles, and dolphins instead of simply delivering the likely plastic distribution maps.”



In practical terms, this means policymakers can act on evidence of where microplastics enter the Gulf and where they accumulate. Addressing these hotspots could reduce long-term impacts on both ecosystems and the seafood industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beyond-the-gulf">Looking beyond the Gulf</h2>



The modeling framework created for this project has value far beyond the United States. Other coastal regions face similar pollution problems, and the approach could be adapted worldwide. CMCC’s Global Coastal Ocean division is already positioned to take this next step.



“This project is setting a framework for, hopefully, more similar efforts to come,” Bracco said. 



“In other words, it is important to look for ways to make our research relevant to everyday life (in this case the fish we consume) to help put in motion the change that is needed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-and-their-hidden-costs">Microplastics and their hidden costs</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-is-everywhere-even-in-newborns-and-getting-worse/">Microplastic pollution</a> is often described as invisible, but its consequences are anything but. These particles threaten species we depend on and disrupt ecosystems we barely understand. 



By showing how plastics move and where they accumulate, the Gulf of Mexico study makes the issue visible in a new way.



It also gives people a reason to care. When pollution is tied to food security, health, and jobs, the problem is no longer abstract. It’s a challenge that affects everyone who relies on the ocean - which is, in one way or another, all of us.



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Microplastics threaten marine life in the Gulf of Mexico

Tiny fragments known as microplastics are finding their way into the Gulf of Mexico, a region teeming with marine life and critical to global seafood supplies. New research shows just how much these particles are concentrating in waters where sea turtles, red snapper, and dolphins live. Scientists used computer models to track the movement of microplastics in the northern Gulf of Mexico over a three-year period. The results not only reveal where these pollutants end up but also explain which sources matter most. Rivers drive the plastic...

Honey bees, the diligent workers of fields and gardens, face three major threats - nutritional stress, viral infections, and pesticide exposure. 



In a new study conducted at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, researchers have intricately dissected this interconnected network of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-face-a-multitude-of-complex-stressors-in-the-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stressors</a>. Their discovery? Good nutrition boosts honey bee resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honey-bees-stress-and-nutrition">Honey bees, stress, and nutrition</h2>



“Multiple stressors are often bad for survival,” said graduate student&nbsp;Edward Hsieh, who led the research Professor&nbsp;Adam Dolezal.



“However, it is always context-dependent, and you have to be aware of all these factors when you’re trying to make broad statements about how interactive effects affect honey bees.”



According to Hsieh, most scientific studies focus on just one or two factors at a time. Some may explore the mashup of poor nutrition and pesticide exposure, while others may investigate the union of pesticides and viral infections.



Yet, none have explored how all three stressors together may impact honey bee populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-mix-of-pesticides">Complex mix of pesticides</h2>



Even understanding how bees respond to all of the agricultural chemicals they encounter is a complicated task, said Professor Dolezal.



“Some insecticides will work better against some insects than others, but they tend to be more lethal than fungicides or herbicides. Some fungicides, however, are known to make insecticides more toxic to insects," explained Professor Dolezal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exposing-bees-to-chemicals-and-viruses">Exposing bees to chemicals and viruses</h2>



For the investigation, caged bees were exposed to different combinations of dietary, viral, and chemical treatments.



The agricultural pesticides used were chlorpyrifos, an organophosphate; lambda-cyhalothrin, a pyrethroid; and thiamethoxam, a neonicotinoid.



The bees were also exposed to the Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus, one of several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-spread-viruses-to-bumblebees-in-the-spring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a> implicated in the global decline of honey bee colonies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-honey-bee-nutrition">The role of honey bee nutrition</h2>



The experiments led to some surprising results. For example, if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-spread-viruses-to-bumblebees-in-the-spring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> were fed artificial pollen and exposed to the virus and pesticide, they died in large numbers. However, when the artificial pollen was replaced with natural pollen, the results were very different.



On the natural pollen diet, virus-exposed bees still faced higher mortality. But if they were also exposed to a mixture of chlorpyrifos and a fungicide, surprisingly fewer of them died.



According to Professor Dolezal, it's as if the bees have an inherent ability to deal with stress, but only if they have the nutritional resources to do so.



The researchers emphasized that this doesn't mean that chemical exposures are harmless. The findings do not advocate careless use of pesticides. It all depends on the chemical - different pesticides have different molecular targets and exert different effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-quality-habitats">High-quality habitats</h2>



The study confirms that creating and maintaining high-quality prairie habitats near agricultural sites can enhance bee resilience.



These habitats are not an “ecological trap,” enticing bees with flowers only to poison them with agricultural chemicals.



According to Dolezal, the study showed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-can-sniff-out-lung-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> are quite resilient even to the interaction of pesticides and viruses if they have good nutrition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-diversity-provides-a-buffer">Genetic diversity provides a buffer</h2>



In the quest to enhance bee resilience, genetic diversity emerges as a critical factor. The research indicates that colonies with a greater diversity of worker genotypes tend to exhibit more adaptable responses to stressors. 



This diversity can buffer against the impact of various threats, providing a genetic toolbox that helps honey bee populations withstand nutritional deficiencies, infections, and pesticide exposures. 



By maintaining or even bolstering this genetic diversity, either through selective breeding or preservation of natural wild populations, researchers and conservationists can potentially enhance the adaptability and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/winter-poses-a-challenge-to-the-survival-of-honey-bees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival</a> of bees amidst increasing environmental challenges.



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



The insights gained from this study have profound implications for agricultural practices. 



Farmers and land managers can adopt bee-friendly approaches, which involve minimizing pesticide applications, selecting compounds with the least potential harm to bees, and timing applications to avoid periods of high bee activity.



Furthermore, incorporating diverse floral resources in agricultural areas can provide essential nutritional supplements to bees.



These sustainable practices not only safeguard bee populations but also benefit agricultural productivity by ensuring the continued provision of pollination services critical for many crops. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrition-and-honey-bee-resilience">Nutrition and honey bee resilience</h2>



One thing stands clear – while good nutrition can boost honey bee resilience, it is not a get-out-of-jail-free card for pesticide use. In almost all cases, pesticides (alone or in conjunction with viruses) are harmful to bees.



But in our battle to increase bee resilience, high-quality habitats play a significant role. As Hsieh pointed out, it's gratifying to know that we can help the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-need-a-balanced-diet-for-optimal-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> out, at least a little, by providing them a good habitat.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724052756?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Good nutrition is key to honey bee survival

Honey bees, the diligent workers of fields and gardens, face...

Pop quiz... what is a product that people around the world buy millions of, every minute of every day? If your answer was bottled water, pat yourself on the back -- and then worry. 



This seemingly innocuous, everyday act is causing a tidal wave of concern among population health experts globally.



Why? Because the implications of bottled water consumption are far-reaching, affecting not just our health but also our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-emissions-now-measured-using-global-standard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mother Earth herself</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bottled-water-as-a-personal-preference">Bottled water as a personal preference</h2>



Safe tap water is not a luxury for the majority of us. 



Yet, we forsake it for bottled water. Even more startling is the plight of two billion people worldwide without safe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-a-crucial-role-in-clean-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinking water</a> who are reliant on bottled water for hydration. 



The reasons behind this are convenience and a misplaced belief, mostly fueled by aggressive industry propaganda, that bottled water is superior to tap water. 



But how true is this belief?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safety-of-bottled-water">Safety of bottled water</h2>



Bottled water is in no way safer than tap water, assert medical sleuths from <a href="https://qatar-weill.cornell.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weill Cornell Medicine</a> in Qatar. The logic is simple yet overlooked.



Bottled water does not undergo the rigorous quality checks that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/too-much-fluoride-in-tap-water-supply-might-lower-kids-iq-by-few-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tap water</a> does. It also comes with a side effect -- the possibility of chemical leakage from the plastic bottles it's stored in, especially if stored for long periods or exposed to sunlight and high temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-really-in-your-bottled-water">What's really in your bottled water?</h2>



Bottled water might be clearer in appearance than its counterparts, but it houses a murky secret – a startling 10-78% of samples were found to contain pollutants. 



The villains? Microplastics, dubbed as endocrine disruptors, and other malevolent substances like phthalates and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-plastic-items-pose-a-hidden-risk-to-childrens-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bisphenol A (BPA)</a>.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/contamination-crisis-microplastics-found-in-88-of-protein-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> can disrupt body functions and cause oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and blood fat level changes. 



BPA exposure has been linked to high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, all of which typically surface later in life.



Our estimates about the long-term impacts of these contaminants are still a work in progress, warns the study author. Add to this mix the possibility of microplastics infiltrating the food chain, and we're in for worrying times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-better-option-tap-water">The better option: Tap water</h2>



Choosing tap water doesn't just benefit your health. It's an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-interlinked-crisis-of-plastic-pollution-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">act of environmental responsibility</a>. 



Plastic bottles are the second most common pollutant in the ocean, accounting for 12% of total plastic waste.



Of these, only a dismal 9% are recycled globally. 



The rest find their way into landfills, incinerators, and low-and-middle-income countries' waste management systems, putting a spotlight over issues of social justice and sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-single-use-plastic-harms-earth">How single-use plastic harms Earth</h2>



Single-use plastics are items made from plastic that are designed to be used once and then thrown away. These include things like plastic bags, straws, bottles, cutlery, and packaging materials. 



We often use them for convenience in our daily lives, such as drinking water in plastic bottles, without considering their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-term impact</a>.



When we discard single-use plastics, they often end up polluting our environment. They litter our streets, clog landfills, and pollute oceans where they <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-kills-ocean-embryos-during-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">harm marine life</a>. Animals can mistake plastic for food or become entangled in it, leading to injury or death. 



As these plastics break down, they become microplastics that contaminate soil and water, eventually entering the food chain and affecting our health. 



By relying on disposable plastics, we contribute to environmental degradation and risk the well-being of our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avoiding-bottled-water">Avoiding bottled water</h2>



Despite steps being taken to promote tap water use in public spaces and restaurants and to contain the scourge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">single-use plastics</a>, our experts call for more action.



Emphasis is on government interventions and educational campaigns to bring about a perceptual change in public behavior. 



The message to drive home? Tap water is not just safe but is also an act of environmental stewardship.



Collectively, the accumulated evidence underscores the critical role of government interventions and educational campaigns in shifting public perception and behavior. 



"These campaigns should highlight the environmental stewardship and health benefits of choosing tap water, effectively driving a cultural change towards more sustainable consumption practices,”  the authors suggest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technological-innovations">Technological innovations </h2>



Bottled water's reign may be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collecting-water-from-the-air-to-tackle-a-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overthrown by technology</a>. Innovations like water filtration systems and portable purifiers give individuals the power to sip safe water, minus the reliance on plastic bottles. 



Research into the creation of eco-friendly alternatives to plastic presents a promising future. 



Furthermore, investment in and development of smart water systems could rebuild public trust in tap water's safety and quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-to-take-stock-and-do-something">Time to take stock and do something</h2>



The mounting health, financial, and environmental toll associated with bottled water is alarming. The need to reassess this issue is dire, especially in low-and-middle-income countries where investing in safe drinking water infrastructure could be pivotal.



“The reliance on [bottled water] incurs significant health, financial and environmental costs, calling for an urgent re-evaluation of its widespread use,” they implored.



Governments must urgently confront these issues, including those in low and middle income countries where there is a pressing need for them to invest in safe drinking water infrastructure.



“By prioritizing tap water consumption, we can collectively address the multifaceted challenges posed by [bottled water] and embrace tap water as a cornerstone of environmental responsibility and public health," the authors concluded.



In choosing tap water over bottled water, we take a step towards environmental responsibility and safeguard public health. 



Our collective efforts can tackle the problems that bottled water poses head-on, reaffirming tap water as a symbol of progressive, sustainable living.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2024-015226" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Global Health</a>.



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Bottled water has become a global scourge, wreaking environmental havoc

Pop quiz... what is a product that people around the...

A massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fatal-landslides-human-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">landslide</a> in Greenland led to a mega-tsunami, which caused water to slosh back and forth across a fjord for nine days. This movement triggered vibrations that traveled through the Earth and were detected globally, according to a recent study.



The event, which occurred in September 2023, had initially puzzled seismologists when they observed a mysterious global seismic signal lasting for days.&nbsp;



The research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adm9247" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>, reveals that the collapse of a 1.2 km-high mountain peak into the Dickson Fjord was responsible for the phenomenon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landslide-produced-a-mega-tsunami-nbsp">Landslide produced a mega-tsunami&nbsp;</h2>



The landslide, which occurred in a remote area, sent a wave of water 656 feet into the air, producing a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-first-tsunami-victim/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tsunami</a> that reached up to 360 feet high. 



This wave, which extended across more than 6 miles of the fjord, rapidly diminished to about 23 feet within a few minutes, and eventually settled down to just a few centimeters over the following days.&nbsp;



By using advanced mathematical modeling, the researchers demonstrated how the narrow, winding fjord contributed to the prolonged back-and-forth sloshing of water.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-seismic-vibrations">Global seismic vibrations</h2>



The frequency of this movement matched the seismic vibrations detected globally, helping to explain the baffling seismic readings.



According to the researchers, the landslide was triggered by the thinning of a glacier at the mountain’s base, which was no longer able to support the rock above. This destabilization was linked to climate change.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-landslide-and-tsunami-in-greenland">First landslide and tsunami in Greenland</h2>



The event marks the first-ever landslide and tsunami recorded in eastern Greenland.



“When I first saw the seismic signal, I was completely baffled,” said co-author Stephen Hicks, an earth scientist at UCL&nbsp;



“Even though we know seismometers can record a variety of sources happening on Earth’s surface, never before has such a long-lasting, globally traveling seismic wave, containing only a single frequency of oscillation, been recorded.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vibrations-through-earth-s-crust">Vibrations through Earth's crust</h2>



Hicks noted that this is the first time that water sloshing has been recorded as vibrations through the Earth’s crust, traveling the world over and lasting several days.



The seismic signal detected was unlike the typical earthquake rumbles, which tend to be rich in frequency. Instead, it appeared as a single, monotonous hum.&nbsp;



Initially labeled as a “USO” (unidentified seismic object), the signal was later linked to a large tsunami reported in the remote fjord of northeastern Greenland.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-piecing-together-the-puzzle">Piecing together the puzzle</h2>



To solve this mystery, 68 scientists from 40 institutions across 15 countries collaborated. They pooled together data from seismometers, infrasound recordings, satellite imagery, field measurements, and tsunami simulations.&nbsp;



The Danish military also contributed imagery after inspecting the collapsed mountain and the scars left by the tsunami. This interdisciplinary effort allowed the team to piece together the sequence of events.



Study lead author Kristian Svennevig is a scientist at the <a href="https://eng.geus.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland</a> (GEUS). 



“When we set out on this scientific adventure, everybody was puzzled and no one had the faintest idea what caused this signal. All we knew was that it was somehow associated with the landslide. We only managed to solve this enigma through a huge interdisciplinary and international effort,” said Svennevig.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-destructive-force-of-the-landslide-and-tsunami-nbsp">Destructive force of the landslide and tsunami&nbsp;</h2>



The study revealed that the landslide displaced 25 million cubic meters of rock and ice - enough to fill 10,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.&nbsp;



The resulting tsunami waves, which were among the largest recorded in recent history, caused significant damage 70 km away from the site, including the destruction of cultural heritage sites and damage to a research base on the island of Ella Ø.



Although no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cruise-ships-rethink-ventilation-to-minimize-viral-spread/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cruise ships</a> were in the area at the time, the researchers noted that Dickson Fjord is a popular route for tourist ships, and the consequences could have been devastating had any been nearby. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-warning-systems-are-needed">Early warning systems are needed</h2>



Using high-resolution mathematical models, the team was able to precisely recreate the sloshing of water, which matched the seismic signals recorded around the world.



The study concluded that as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lake-tsunamis-are-an-emerging-climate-linked-hazard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> accelerates, it is becoming increasingly important to monitor regions previously considered stable and to develop early-warning systems for landslides and tsunamis. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-global-seismic-networks-nbsp">The role of global seismic networks&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Thomas Forbriger from the <a href="https://www.kit.edu/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karlsruhe Institute of Technology </a>emphasized the role of global seismic networks in the discovery. 



“We wouldn’t have discovered or been able to analyze this amazing event without networks of high-fidelity broadband seismic stations around the world, which are the only sensors that can truly capture such a unique signal,” said Forbriger.



According to Anne Mangeney from <a href="https://u-paris.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Université Paris Cité</a>, the tsunami challenged the classical numerical models that we previously used to simulate just a few hours of tsunami propagation. 



“We had to go to an unprecedentedly high numerical resolution to capture this long-duration event in Greenland. This opens up new avenues in the development of numerical methods for tsunami modeling,” concluded Mangeney.&nbsp;



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Mega-tsunami triggered by climate change made Earth vibrate for 9 days

A massive landslide in Greenland led to a mega-tsunami, which...

For years, scientists thought they had a good grasp on what happens when a molecule of water meets air. You know, the stuff we read in textbooks? Turns out, we’ve been wrong. 



A group of researchers discovered that the molecules at the surface of salt water organize themselves in a way that’s totally different than we ever thought.



Dr. Yair Litman from the <a href="https://www.ch.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry</a> led the team, and this revelation shakes up some long-held beliefs in climate science. 



It might sound like just another science experiment, but this one has real-world implications, especially when it comes to understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-weaker-ocean-will-release-more-carbon-into-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how our atmosphere works</a> and how to mitigate human impacts on the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemistry-at-the-surface-of-water-molecules">Chemistry at the surface of water molecules</h2>



When we think about where important chemical reactions happen, we might not immediately picture the surface of the ocean or a glass of salt water. But that’s exactly where critical interactions take place, especially when water meets air. 



Think of it: the evaporation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean water affects our climate</a>, drives weather patterns, and even influences the chemistry of the air we breathe. It’s a big deal.



For years, the science community has been trying to get a handle on exactly what happens at that surface, particularly how ions -- those tiny charged particles in salt -- behave when they hang out at the water’s edge. 



Are they neatly lined up? Do they play nice with water molecules? Well, until now, it was all pretty much guesswork. The exact behavior of ions at the water-air interface has been hotly debated.



That’s where Litman’s team, along with Dr. Kuo-Yang Chiang from the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a>, comes in. Their study, published in Nature Chemistry, changes the game. 



By combining cutting-edge technology with advanced simulations, they’ve shown that water molecules at the surface of salt water don’t behave the way we’ve always thought. And yes, this is big news.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-at-the-surface-of-water-molecules">Looking at the surface of water molecules</h2>



The traditional view, found in most textbooks, was simple: ions, which are either positively or negatively charged, line up at the surface and organize water molecules in one direction. But according to this new research, that’s not how things work at all.



The team used a more advanced form of a technique called vibrational sum-frequency generation (<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sum_frequency_generation_spectroscopy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VSFG</a>). In the past, VSFG allowed scientists to look at molecular vibrations on the surface of water. 



But it had a flaw -- it couldn’t tell whether these vibrations were positive or negative, which made it hard to interpret what was really going on. Kind of like trying to figure out a conversation by only hearing half of it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trying-a-different-technique">Trying a different technique</h2>



That’s where heterodyne-detected (HD)-VSFG came into play. This technique takes things a step further, allowing the team to not only measure the vibrations but also figure out their direction. 



The result? They discovered that ions at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-ocean-water-shaped-early-life-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface of salt water</a> don’t just form a single layer and organize water molecules in one direction. 



Instead, ions organize water molecules both up and down, flipping the textbook model on its head.



“Our work demonstrates that the surface of simple electrolyte solutions has a different ion distribution than previously thought,” Litman explained. 



“At the very top, there are a few layers of pure water, followed by an ion-rich layer, and then the bulk salt solution.”



This means that, rather than ions neatly lining up and orienting water molecules in one direction, they create a much more complex and dynamic environment. 



It’s like discovering that your once-quiet neighborhood is actually buzzing with activity behind closed doors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-this-matter">Why does this matter?</h2>



If you’re thinking, “Okay, but why should I care how ions behave at the surface of water?” The answer lies in how this discovery affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weather-in-dry-regions-isnt-behaving-as-climate-models-predict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric science</a>. 



The surface of water -- especially ocean water -- is where a lot of important reactions take place. Evaporation, cloud formation, and even how pollutants break down in the atmosphere all hinge on these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosol-formation-earths-lower-atmosphere-soas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water-air interfaces</a>.



When we don’t fully understand how ions behave at the water’s surface, we can’t make accurate models for climate science. And in a world where understanding climate is crucial, having an accurate model is everything.



Dr. Kuo-Yang Chiang from the Max Planck Institute adds that this research not only deepens our understanding of liquid interfaces but could also be applied to other fields. 



"This paper shows that combining high-level HD-VSFG with simulations is an invaluable tool that will contribute to the molecular-level understanding of liquid interfaces."



In other words, this important revelation could help scientists develop better technologies for things like batteries and energy storage. 



And who knows, maybe it’ll even help us better understand how to manage some of the environmental issues we’re facing today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technique-has-far-reaching-applications">Technique has far-reaching applications</h2>



The implications of this study don’t stop at atmospheric science. Mischa Bonn, head of the Molecular Spectroscopy department at the Max Planck Institute, believes that this discovery could pave the way for a deeper understanding of other interfaces, like those found in batteries. 



"These types of interfaces occur everywhere on the planet, so studying them not only helps our fundamental understanding but can also lead to better devices and technologies," Bonn explained.



If we can get a better grip on how molecules behave on the surface of salt water, it could improve our understanding of how they behave on the surface of a solid material, too. That’s huge for anyone working on improving batteries or other energy storage solutions.



This is one of those discoveries where the impact might not be immediately obvious, but down the road, it could change everything -- from how we build devices to how we think about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-disinformation-is-a-persistent-scourge-in-the-battle-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate science</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-of-this-water-molecule-discovery">Applications of this water molecule discovery</h2>



To sum it all up, the findings from Dr. Litman’s team are just the beginning. Their discovery challenges decades of assumptions about water and ions, and it opens the door to a whole new area of research. 



The next steps? Applying these techniques to even more complex systems, like the interactions between water and solids, which could help us understand everything from pollution to clean energy.



It’s rare that a scientific discovery completely rewrites what we thought we knew. But when it does, it’s a reminder that science is always evolving. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41557-023-01416-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Chemistry</a>.



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Water molecule discovery is forcing textbooks to be rewritten

For years, scientists thought they had a good grasp on...

The summer of 2024 was the hottest on record, an expected outcome given the rising global temperatures.&nbsp;



In the Northern Hemisphere, hotter and drier summers have led to severe droughts and intense heat waves, particularly in North America and Europe, posing significant threats to society, such as wildfires, crop failures, and serious health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weakening-of-earth-s-air-circulation-nbsp">Weakening of Earth's air circulation&nbsp;</h2>



A contributing factor to these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/">extreme weather events</a> is the weakening of Earth's air circulation systems, which normally help distribute moisture and heat across the globe. The exact reasons behind this weakening, however, had remained unclear - until now.



In two new studies led by Rei Chemke, an expert in climate dynamics at the <a href="https://www.weizmann.ac.il/pages/">Weizmann Institute of Science</a>, researchers have identified human activity as the cause behind the weakening of these critical air circulation systems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vital-network-of-wind-patterns-nbsp">Vital network of wind patterns&nbsp;</h2>



The studies focused on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-method-developed-to-measure-the-wind/">wind</a> patterns that form a vital network for transporting wind-borne heat and moisture around the world. Central to this network are storm tracks, which are high- and low-pressure weather systems that move from west to east.



These storm systems play a crucial role in transferring heat, moisture, and air flow momentum within the atmosphere, which in turn shapes the various climate zones on Earth.&nbsp;



Another key component is the Hadley circulation, a process in which warm air rises near the equator, moves toward the poles, descends in the subtropics, and flows back toward the equator, creating a continuous cycle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-human-activities-nbsp">The role of human activities&nbsp;</h2>



While scientists had long known that both storm tracks and the Hadley circulation have been weakening since at least 1980, only the weakening of the Hadley circulation had been clearly linked to human-induced emissions.



The research was conducted in collaboration with Professor Dim Coumou of Amsterdam’s Institute for Environmental Studies&nbsp;



The first study, published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41612-024-00640-2">npj Climate and Atmospheric Science</a>, demonstrated that the weakening of storm tracks is also due to man-made emissions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/">greenhouse gasses</a>, such as CO₂, and aerosols.



“These emissions warm the air more at the high latitudes than at the low latitudes,” said Chemke. This reduction in the temperature difference between northern and southern latitudes, which drives the storm tracks, has caused the storm tracks to weaken.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buildup-of-warm-temperatures-nbsp">Buildup of warm temperatures&nbsp;</h2>



To reach these conclusions, the researchers analyzed vast amounts of climate data from both observations and advanced climate models.&nbsp;



The experts found that the weakening of storm tracks could only be explained when historical emissions were factored into the climate models.&nbsp;



Chemke pointed out the significance of these storm systems in cooling landmasses.



“The storms in summertime play an important role in bringing cool air from the ocean to the land. If you reduce the intensity of these storms, you bring in less of this cool air. This leads to a buildup of warm temperatures on the continent, which can lead to increasingly extreme heat events.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-air-circulation-nbsp">Impacts on air circulation&nbsp;</h2>



Man-made emissions have also been found to impact the Hadley circulation in an unprecedented way.&nbsp;



While natural factors have historically influenced this circulation, human activity has reversed the direction of these effects - weakening the circulation rather than strengthening it.



In the second study, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-48316-y">Nature Communications</a>, Chemke and his student Or Hess explored the role of natural forces, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/">volcanic eruptions</a> and solar fluxes, in shaping the Hadley circulation over the past millennium.&nbsp;



Using climate models that encapsulate the physics, biology, and chemistry of the climate system, they simulated how natural factors altered the Hadley circulation in previous centuries.



The findings revealed that natural forces had generally acted to strengthen the Hadley circulation in the past - quite the opposite of what is happening today. Man-made emissions, in contrast, are weakening this vital circulation.



“In the previous millennium, natural factors were dominant, whereas now, man-made emissions play a more dominant role,” Hess said. 



“In the past, we had a cooling climate that acted to strengthen the Hadley circulation. Today, we have a warming climate that acts to weaken this circulation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-changes-in-earth-s-air-circulation-nbsp">Natural changes in Earth's air circulation&nbsp;</h2>



Chemke and his team emphasize the need for climate models to account more thoroughly for natural factors, which are often overshadowed by the focus on human-induced emissions.&nbsp;



While human activity undoubtedly plays a larger role in today’s climate changes, natural forces have historically had a significant impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-influence-on-climate-systems">Human influence on climate systems</h2>



“Our research field mainly deals with man-made emissions and warming climates. Less attention is given to the impact of natural factors such as volcanic eruptions, solar fluctuations, or natural sources of greenhouse gasses," Chemke explained.



“Yet we found that natural factors can have a major effect on climate, although smaller in magnitude relative to the impact of man-made emissions.”&nbsp;



“In particular, they seem to affect the Hadley circulation in a way that's opposite to that of human activity. This was really surprising for us, and it's something that should be taken into consideration.”



The findings highlight the importance of understanding both natural and human influences on climate systems, especially as the world grapples with increasingly extreme weather events. 



By factoring in both, scientists can develop more accurate models and strategies for addressing climate change.



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Human activities are weakening Earth's air circulation

The summer of 2024 was the hottest on record, an...

Great,Barrier,Reef.,Heart,Reef.,Whitsundays.,Queensland,Australia

Exciting new research brings hope for the future of our precious coral reefs. Scientists discovered something quite extraordinary in the waters of Australia's Great Barrier Reef -- unforeseen variations in coral heat tolerance.



Could this be the key to the recovery and adaptation of these threatened ecosystems?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-heat-tolerance">Coral heat tolerance</h2>



Within the calming depths, where table coral, Acropora hyacinthus, lives across 17 reefs, scientists meticulously measured the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-coral-bleaching-event-is-now-underway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching</a> thresholds of more than 500 colonies using a portable experimental system.



The efforts of a diverse team of researchers, led by <a href="https://www.scu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Cross University</a> PhD candidate Melissa Naugle, bore surprising fruit.



“We found heat-tolerant corals at almost all the reefs that we studied, highlighting how corals across the entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-barrier-reef-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Barrier Reef</a> may hold genetic resources that are important for protection and restoration,” said lead researcher Melissa Naugle.



What they discovered was a remarkable diversity in heat tolerance among the colonies. 



This finding suggests that the natural genetic resources of corals may hold the key to their own survival and restoration. 



As reefs face the 4th <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global mass bleaching event</a> and unprecedented summer sea temperatures, this discovery offers hope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fuel-for-natural-selection">Fuel for natural selection</h2>



The study was part of the <a href="https://gbrrestoration.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program (RRAP)</a>, involving scientists from across the globe.



Dr. Line Bay, Senior Principal Research Scientist and Research Program Director at AIMS, emphasized the importance of these findings for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monetary-value-ecosystems-nature-conservation-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem conservation</a>.



“Differences between individual corals are the fuel for natural selection to produce future generations of more tolerant corals,” said Dr. Bay. 



“Developing a solid understanding of this variation is crucial to understanding how corals will adapt to climate warming.”



The study’s implications for large-scale reef restoration and conservation efforts are significant. Dr. Cedric Robillot, Executive Director of RRAP, noted that naturally heat-tolerant corals can be strategically used in such programs. 



“This work highlights the availability of naturally heat-tolerant corals that can be targeted by RRAP to protect this critical ecosystem from warming ocean temperatures that are already locked in from climate change,” Dr. Robillot stated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embracing-heat-tolerant-corals">Embracing heat-tolerant corals</h2>



While environmental factors such as thermal history, nutrient concentrations, and symbiotic algae living within coral tissues influenced heat tolerance, genetic differences played a key role.



“The most heat-tolerant corals identified in this study are currently being used for a selective breeding trial,” said Dr. Emily Howells, Senior Research Fellow at Southern Cross University. 



“Though, this outcome depends on how much of the heat tolerance variation we observe is tied to heritable gene variants.”



Melissa Naugle further explained the importance of genetic research. 



“Next, we’ll analyze DNA-sequencing data from these individuals to identify gene variants associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-coral-reefs-have-naturally-increased-their-heat-tolerance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat tolerance</a>. This can help us understand the adaptation potential of natural coral populations and inform selective breeding work,” noted Naugle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbiotic-algae-and-heat-tolerance">Symbiotic algae and heat tolerance</h2>



One key factor contributing to heat tolerance is the relationship between corals and their symbiotic algae, known as zooxanthellae. 



These algae reside within coral tissues, providing essential nutrients through photosynthesis and, in turn, helping corals build reefs. 



However, under stress conditions like rising sea temperatures, corals may expel their symbiotic algae, leading to bleaching and leaving them vulnerable.



Research has shown that the types of symbiotic algae present can influence heat tolerance. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-significance">Study significance</h2>



Understanding the different algae species that live within corals may provide additional strategies for enhancing resilience. This relationship is considered a key factor in efforts to breed heat-tolerant corals.



The next step for researchers is to determine which algae strains offer the best protection under increasing heat stress. 



Exploring if selective breeding can strengthen this symbiosis could be crucial in supporting coral survival, even as climate change continues to warm the oceans.



By examining both genetic factors within corals and their partnership with symbiotic algae, this research provides a more holistic understanding of what may be necessary to protect the world’s remaining reefs.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01649-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Some corals can survive high ocean heat, which could save reefs

Exciting new research brings hope for the future of our...

The unique light environment of the Earth's polar regions creates conditions that foster the formation of circumpolar hybrid zones around both the North and South Poles, according to a new study.&nbsp;



These extreme conditions synchronize the reproductive phenology of various species, forcing them into a shorter window for reproduction, which may sustain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-biodiversity-will-get-a-boost-from-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> in the long term.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-light-influences-biodiversity">Polar light influences biodiversity</h2>



In a recent research article, Professor Kari Saikkonen from the <a href="https://www.utu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Turku</a>, Finland, and his colleagues presented a new theory on how the polar light environment influences biodiversity over millions of years. 



The research, published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.oneear.2024.08.002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Earth</a>, explores the role of the unique light cycles near the poles in shaping long-term biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-cycles-of-polar-light">Extreme cycles of polar light</h2>



Daylight patterns on Earth vary significantly depending on latitude. At the Equator, day and night are nearly equal year-round, with only minor seasonal variation in day length as one moves away from the Equator.&nbsp;



However, closer to the poles, there is substantial seasonality, resulting in phenomena like the “midnight sun,” where there is 24-hour daylight in the summer, and the “polar night,” where the sun does not rise for months during the winter in regions within the Arctic and Antarctic circles.



“At the center of our theory is the hypothesis that the extreme light environment of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-polar-regions-changing-fundamental-alarming-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar regions</a> creates hybrid zones in both polar regions,” Saikkonen said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seasonal-changes-in-day-length-nbsp">Seasonal changes in day length&nbsp;</h2>



Unlike temperature, which can vary unpredictably with local and global climate, day length is a stable environmental factor that changes consistently with latitude.&nbsp;



Many organisms, especially photosynthetic ones like plants and some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-seabed-bacteria-play-a-crucial-role-in-sustaining-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a>, have adapted to using seasonal changes in day length as signals to time their reproduction.



Since many organisms rely on light as a cue, the polar light environment increases the likelihood that closely related plant species will flower simultaneously. 



This creates opportunities for hybridization, where organisms reproduce with individuals from a different species or variety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-light-and-hybridization">Polar light and hybridization </h2>



Saikkonen noted that although <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hybridization-reduces-vulnerability-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hybridization</a> is common in almost all groups of organisms, its role as a force for sustaining biodiversity has not been fully understood. 



“Hybridization may also involve backcrossing, where hybrid individuals mate with members of the original species. This allows genes to be transferred between species, creating new adaptive gene combinations suited to different environmental conditions,” explained Saikkonen.



At lower latitudes, where day length changes only slightly between seasons, the timing of reproduction among distinct populations or subspecies is less likely to overlap, and thus hybridization is less common.&nbsp;



However, in polar regions, the unique light cycles may promote more frequent hybridization, leading to new biodiversity over long geological periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-biodiversity-nbsp">Evolution of biodiversity&nbsp;</h2>



“Species' range shifts across latitudes during the Earth's cooler and warmer cycles cause recurrent isolation and contact among species. This results in mixing and differentiation of species, leading to new biodiversity over long periods of time,” said Saikkonen.



Microbes have played a crucial role in the evolution of biodiversity since the origin of life, and they continue to have a significant impact on maintaining and promoting global biodiversity.



“Microbes are ubiquitous, and mounting evidence reveals their high adaptive potential due to their short life cycle. Many microbes are light-sensitive and affect the well-being of virtually all plants and animals. Since all plants and animals have diverse microbiota, they should be treated as a whole,” Saikkonen said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-regions-are-warming-rapidly">Polar regions are warming rapidly</h2>



In their study, the experts hypothesize that photosensitive microbes may play a role in helping plants adapt to the extreme light conditions of polar regions.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracking-arctic-climate-change-is-much-more-difficult-since-russia-invaded-ukraine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> and biodiversity loss are among the greatest global threats to ecosystems today. The polar regions, in particular, are warming at a much faster rate than the global average - up to 2–4 times faster.



“Climate models predict that Arctic sea ice will melt by the end of this century. Over the same period, Antarctica's ice-free area will increase from approximately 2% today to almost 25%,” said Saikkonen.



The melting of the western Antarctic glaciers alone could cause sea levels to rise by five meters, threatening 10% of the world's population and many of the world's coastal ecosystems over the next decades or centuries.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-driven-biodiversity-loss">Climate-driven biodiversity loss</h2>



The researchers argue that the conventional species-focused approach to biodiversity must expand to include the genetic diversity of organisms and the importance of microbial associates in plants and animals.



“We propose that biodiversity can, in the long term, recover after disturbances and mass extinctions, but ecosystems will restructure as novel species assemblages,” said Saikkonen.



“This calls for increased attention to the importance of ensuring sufficient genetic diversity, species diversity, and species interaction potential to support future diversification and ecosystem functions and services. Tackling climate change-driven biodiversity loss is crucial.”



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Polar light sustains biodiversity over millions of years 

The unique light environment of the Earth's polar regions creates...

Humans aren't the only animals affected by the increasing proliferation of artificial light at night (ALAN). Recent studies found that light pollution, especially the blue spectrum, dramatically impacts fish behavior, even influencing their offspring.



Our planet at night, once a canvas of star-studded obsidian, has been illuminated to such lengths that darkness seems a thing of the past. 



This phenomenon, dubbed as ALAN, is the primary culprit for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/light-pollution-increases-the-risk-of-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global light pollution</a>. The constant glow from street-lights, buildings and our personal devices create a world that never truly sees nightfall. 



It's no wonder then that our sleep schedules are in disarray, and it turns out, so are the zebrafish's.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anxious-fish-and-unnatural-light">Anxious fish and unnatural light</h2>



The team of scientific scholars from the <a href="https://www.hbu.cas.cz/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Hydrobiology</a> Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Max Planck <a href="https://www.ab.mpg.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Animal Behavior</a>, led by Wei Wei Li, delved into how ALAN affects the behavior of zebrafish.



They found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-light-increases-risk-of-bird-collisions-with-buildings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">constant exposure to light</a> resulted in the zebrafish displaying anxiety-like behaviors -- they swam less, spent more time near the aquarium walls, and congregated in closer groups.



The team discovered that while all wavelengths of light induced these changes, the blue spectrum triggered the most immediate and intense responses. 



These findings might make you reconsider your next late-night Netflix binge. After all, it's not only your sleep that's getting compromised.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-negative-impact-of-alan">Negative impact of ALAN</h2>



Wei Wei Li brings to our attention an unsettling fact -- the impact of ALAN isn't exclusive to us humans. 



The illumination levels used in their study were similar to the amount of light filtering into animal habitats from our outdoor sources.



“Sleep is one of the main processes of animals that is disrupted by ALAN, so we were curious to know what that means for their ability to navigate their lives. In other words, what does it mean for their behavior?” explains Wei Wei Li.



“The light levels that we used in our study matched what is already shining into the homes of animals at night through the many sources we place outdoors. And we found extremely strong and clear negative effects on the behavior of fish and their offspring after only a few bright nights.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blue-light-and-fish-offspring">Blue light and fish offspring</h2>



It's no secret that blue light disrupts the human sleep cycle. But the research team wanted to uncover whether different wavelengths affected fish behavior differently. 



After exposing female zebrafish to various light regimes for eight nights, they recorded behaviors such as decreased swimming and wall-hugging. 



The impact of blue light, however, was discernible much sooner - after just five nights of exposure.



"This is consistent with what is known in humans, that exposure to the blue light of our electronic displays has the biggest effect on our sleep and possibly other physiological cycles," co-author Aneesh Bose observes. 



While the study did not aim to uncover a mechanism, the authors speculate that the observed behavioral patterns could stem from sleep deprivation.



“The fish could pull a few all-nighters, but after too many nights of disrupted sleep it eventually caught up to them,” explains Bose.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-linger">Effects linger</h2>



The effects of ALAN appear to be more than just fleeting. The study found that these behavioral changes in zebrafish didn't cease with the individual but extended to their offspring. 



"We found that light pollution disrupted the natural behavior of fish, and this disruption may have fitness and performance consequences," Ming Duan from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> elaborates.



While we can't entirely eliminate artificial light, we can certainly be more mindful of its repercussions. It's not just about turning off the lights when not in use but also about reconsidering the type of light we emit near animal habitats. 



"The best thing we can do is minimize the use of blue wavelength light sources where animals are trying to sleep," Duan suggests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-fish-from-light-pollution">Saving fish from light pollution</h2>



What we have been lights-out about is how the light we cast influences more than just our sleep patterns. 



From anxiety-like behaviors to progeny impact, the findings of this study shine a light (pun intended) on the unintended consequences of our illuminated existence. 



It's high time we dimmed our luminescent lifestyles <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/city-moths-develop-smaller-wings-survive-light-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for a brighter future</a>, for us and our aquatic pals.



So, the next time you leave a light on, remember -- it's not just you, but also your finned neighbors who might be kept awake.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724064921?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Light at night permanently changes fish behavior and harms offspring

Humans aren't the only animals affected by the increasing proliferation...

When we think of medications, we mainly envision relief from ailments or protection against diseases. However, a recent study has revealed an unforeseen impact of these beneficial drugs – they're winding up in our coral reefs.



A team of researchers from Tel Aviv University and the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History have discovered traces of 10 prevalent pharmaceuticals in coral samples.



These samples were not just from some random shallow locales, but from both shallow and deep sites in the Gulf of Eilat. Even Sulfamethoxazole, an antibiotic we humans use for respiratory and urinary tract infections, marked its presence in a staggering 93% of the tested <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-the-tissue-and-skeletons-of-corals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corals</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-drugs-in-coral-reefs">Human drugs in coral reefs</h2>



The study was led by Professor Noa Shenkar from <a href="https://english.tau.ac.il" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TAU</a>'s <a href="https://en-lifesci.tau.ac.il/zoology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Zoology</a> and PhD student Gal Navon.



The researchers collaborated with the Hydrochemistry laboratory, which is led by Professor Dror Avisar at TAU's Porter School of Environment and Earth Sciences. 



"In this first-of-its-kind study, we conducted a large-scale investigation for detection of pharmaceuticals in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-seeding-increases-resistance-to-extreme-heatwaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corals</a>," said Professor Shenkar.



The team sampled 96 reef-building stony corals of the Acropora sp. and Favites sp. varieties. They were picked from shallow sites (5–12 meters) and deeper sites beyond the reach of casual divers (30–40 meters).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-medications-in-deep-water-corals">Medications in deep-water corals</h2>



The alarming presence of medications was found even in the deep-water corals, which are generally spared from the contaminants that affect their shallow-dwelling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reef-sharks-are-abandoning-their-homes-due-to-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">counterparts</a>.



So, how did these medications end up in the corals? The researchers focused on the most commonly used pharmaceuticals in Israel, courtesy of Clalit Health Services.



Out of 18 common medications, the team detected traces of 10 different drugs in the coral samples. Not one sample, from either shallow or deep water, was found to be drug-free.



"What does the presence of pharmaceuticals in corals actually mean? Clearly, the corals did not receive a prescription for antibiotics from their doctor," said Professor Shenkar.



"These medications are taken by humans to affect a certain receptor or biological pathway, and they can also impact other organisms."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-drugs-in-corals">Impacts of drugs in corals</h2>



If you thought the problem ends with antibiotics, brace yourselves. The 10 medications detected spanned diverse categories, from blood pressure and antiplatelet agents to antidepressants and laxatives.



So, what do these pharmaceuticals do to the corals? Well, the reality is as shocking as it is peculiar.



"Previous studies, conducted by both our lab and others, have revealed many examples of this negative impact: estrogen from birth control contraceptive pills induces female features in male fish, impairing reproduction in certain species; Prozac makes some crabs aggressive and reckless; and antidepressants damage the memory and learning abilities of squids," said Professor Shenkar.



"There is no reason to believe that corals should be immune to such effects. For instance, if our pharmaceuticals should disrupt the spawning synchrony of coral populations, it would take us a long time to notice the problem, and when we do, it might be too late."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reverberations-in-the-ecosystem">Reverberations in the ecosystem</h2>



"Coral reefs are a cornerstone of marine biodiversity," noted Gal Navon, drawing attention to the importance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-barrier-reef-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underwater structures</a>.



"They provide food, shelter, and spawning sites to numerous species, and support the human fishing and tourism industries. The presence of pharmaceuticals in coral tissues adds another layer of concern, indicating that human activities even contaminate faraway marine environments."



What is the solution? Professor Shenkar said that new sewage treatment methods must be developed that can effectively handle pharmaceutical compounds.



"Also, each of us must dispose of old medications in ways that do not harm the environment."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cycle-of-contamination">Cycle of contamination</h2>



In a chilling revelation, Professor Shenkar warns about how these medications in coral reefs might find their way back to us.



"Ultimately, these drugs come back to us. I know people who avoid medications, but when they eat a fish, they might unknowingly consume a 'cocktail' of drug residues absorbed by the fish from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-illuminates-fish-interactions-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine environment</a>."



In essence, what we put into the environment has a way of coming back to haunt us - a grim reminder to strive for a more sustainable and responsible future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S026974912401412X?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Pollution</a>.



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Corals are absorbing human drugs, and not just in shallow water

When we think of medications, we mainly envision relief from...

The Colorado River, a vital life-sustaining artery in the Western United States, is increasingly threatened by climate change, prolonged drought, and growing water demands.



Providing drinking water for homes, supporting wildlife, and irrigation for farms across seven states, the basin is under significant pressure to adapt to an uncertain and challenging future.



In response to these growing concerns, a team of dedicated researchers led by Penn State University has developed a state-of-the-art computational tool aimed at helping the region's decision-makers navigate these complex uncertainties.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guide-for-colorado-river-planning">Guide for Colorado River planning</h2>



The novel tool, the Framework for Narrative Storylines and Impact Classification (FRNSIC), can help decision-makers explore various plausible futures and identify consequential scenario storylines - thoughtfully crafted descriptions of critical futures.



This can better equip planners to address the impacts and uncertainties of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-at-risk-climate-change-is-diminishing-global-water-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. The team reported their findings in the journal Earth’s Future.



"One of the ways states like Colorado are preparing for the future is by making plans for how things might evolve based on the available science and inputs from various stakeholders," said lead author Antonia Hadjimichael, assistant professor of geosciences at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>.



"This scenario planning process recognizes that planning for the future comes with many uncertainties about climate and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-supply-from-icy-mountains-will-become-less-reliable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> needs. So, planners have to consider different possibilities, such as a high-warming or a low-warming scenario."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-and-decision-making">Science and decision-making</h2>



In the past, decision-makers typically relied on scenario planning approaches or exploratory modeling to anticipate future challenges in Colorado river planning.



Scenario planning is based on a small number of simplified scenarios and often overlooks the complexity of all the interrelated factors involved, leading to a limited view of possible outcomes.



Exploratory modeling, on the other hand, simulates millions of potential futures, offering a more comprehensive analysis, but it can be overwhelming and impractical for policymakers to interpret due to its sheer complexity.



"We wanted to provide something in the middle," explained Hadjimichael. "We wanted to create something that bridges the two - that considers the complexities but also boils it down to something that's a little more actionable and a little less daunting."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-step-process-for-colorado-river-planning">Two-step process for Colorado River planning</h2>



The Framework for Narrative Storylines and Impact Classification follows a two-step process. First, it uses exploratory modeling to investigate a vast array of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-changes-ahead-for-the-colorado-river-basin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hypothesized future conditions</a>. Then, it classifies and identifies relevant and locally meaningful storylines, tailored to the needs of specific stakeholders.



"Our approach essentially explores plausible future impacts and then says, 'for this stakeholder, this is the storyline that would matter the most - and then for this other stakeholder, there is a different storyline they should be worried about," said Hadjimichael.



"It's adding more pluralism and nuance into how planning scenarios are established."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-a-complex-network-of-factors">Addressing a complex network of factors </h2>



In the Colorado River basin, decision-makers grapple with a complex network of factors, including balancing water needs for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-population-will-peak-at-10-3-billion-by-2085/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">growing populations</a> and farmers while ensuring compliance with water-sharing agreements.



"The problem is there is not a single criterion that captures everybody and what they care about," noted Hadjimichael. 



"Maybe you have a very large farm, and maybe I have a very small farm. And maybe we grow different things. It's hard to use a single factor to find out scenarios that would make us all happy, or make us all unhappy."



The storylines generated by FRNSIC can help policymakers explore various drought scenarios, shedding light on potential consequences when populations adapt and make changes. 



"These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-crisis-un-warns-of-unprecedented-emergency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> scenarios can be used to illuminate potential consequences, and therefore be used in negotiations or when asking stakeholders for their input," Hadjimichael added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-collaborative-effort">A collaborative effort</h2>



This latest study on Colorado river planning involved contributions from several notable institutions.



Co-authors include Patrick Reed, professor at <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>; Julianne Quinn, assistant professor at the <a href="https://www.virginia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Virginia</a>; and Chris Vernon, geospatial scientist, and Travis Thurber, software engineer, both at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 



Together, they strive to provide practical solutions to the daunting challenges posed by climate change and uncertainty.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023EF004252" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's Future</a>.



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Planning for an uncertain future in the Colorado River basin

The Colorado River, a vital life-sustaining artery in the Western...

Top ocean experts have published a report that redefines the concept of sustainable fishing and proposes 11 “golden rules” that challenge the current flawed approach in fisheries management.&nbsp;



The report, released shortly before <a href="https://www.oceanweek.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brussels’ Ocean Week</a> and ahead of the <a href="https://ocean-climate.org/en/unoc2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN Ocean Conference</a> in Nice, aims to halt the ongoing destruction of the oceans caused by fishing and ensure the restoration of abundant fish populations to sustain future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guiding-principles-of-sustainable-fishing-nbsp">Guiding principles of sustainable fishing&nbsp;</h2>



The rules are introduced at a time when scientists have dramatically downgraded their assessment of the ocean's health. The guiding principles underlying the rules aim to revolutionize the way we manage the ocean's exploitation.



According to the first guiding principle, fishing must minimize impacts on marine species and habitats, adapt to climate change, and promote the regeneration of depleted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-impacting-marine-life-more-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>.



In addition, fishing must support the health, well-being, and resilience of communities, particularly the most vulnerable, rather than merely benefit corporations that funnel profits to owners and shareholders while others bear the costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-vision-of-sustainable-fishing-nbsp">A new vision of sustainable fishing&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers hope their work will serve as the foundation for a complete reform of the current mismanagement of the Earth's largest common resource - the ocean.



The scientists call on policymakers, retailers, fishers, and industry leaders to embrace this new vision and commit to implementing these reforms.



Today, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-fishing-gets-a-boost-from-genomics-roadmap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> is widely recognized as the leading cause of ocean destruction. The authors of the report decided to collaborate after reaching a consensus that the current definition of “sustainable fishing” is dangerously outdated and contributes to the depletion of marine species, destruction of natural habitats and carbon sinks, and the decline of artisanal fishing communities worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outdated-concept-of-sustainability-nbsp">Outdated concept of sustainability&nbsp;</h2>



“The current concept of ‘sustainable fishing,’ adopted by governments and private actors since the post-war period is scientifically obsolete,” said lead author Callum Roberts, a professor at the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> and chief scientist at the <a href="https://convexseascapesurvey.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Convex Seascape Survey</a>.&nbsp;



“It relies on a simplistic, productivist theory which assumes that as long as global catch volumes remain below a set limit, anyone can fish just about anything, anywhere, with any method.”



“Can we truly claim that all fishing gear is environmentally and socially equal? We currently label fisheries as sustainable without considering their impact on marine ecosystems or human factors, such as crew safety and rights,” added Jennifer Jacquet, a professor at the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami</a>.



The scientists denounce the outdated approach to sustainability, which fails to address key environmental, human, and developmental factors.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pressing-issues-like-biodiversity-loss-nbsp">Pressing issues like biodiversity loss&nbsp;</h2>



Despite widespread acceptance by industry and consumers, current sustainability standards overlook pressing issues like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ocean-day-a-unified-approach-to-protect-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> loss and climate change, while supporting high-capital industrial practices that primarily benefit the Global North.&nbsp;



These practices harm ecosystems, threaten artisanal fishing and food security, and jeopardize jobs, while undermining humans' universal right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimizing-environmental-harm">Minimizing environmental harm</h2>



The scientists reached another consensus: fisheries must be managed in a way that minimizes environmental harm while maximizing social benefits, particularly in the context of a rapidly warming planet and growing global hunger.



To address these challenges, a group of leading ocean researchers has developed a visionary approach to ocean exploitation.&nbsp;



This comprehensive, interdisciplinary definition of “fisheries sustainability” incorporates insights from biology, oceanography, social sciences, and economics.



The proposed rules provide a foundation for economic stakeholders and political leaders to transition to a sustainable fishing model that is viable for the long term.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-sustainable-fishing-nbsp">Rethinking sustainable fishing&nbsp;</h2>



The framework envisions a future where fishing ensures abundant fish stocks for humanity’s long-term needs.



“Our work advocates for fisheries that preserve ocean ecosystems’ vital functions, mitigate climate change, guarantee food security and respect human rights,” said Daniel Pauly, a professor at the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a>.



This innovative approach recognizes the ecological, social, and ethical roles of fishing, proposing a systemic and sustainable model that involves market players, policymakers, and legal frameworks.&nbsp;



Roberts emphasized the need for a shift in perspective: “We must view fishing as a privilege rather than a right. Marine life is a public good that should both benefit society and nature, not be the object of a resource race driven by private gains.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ambitious-yet-realistic-proposals-nbsp">Ambitious yet realistic proposals&nbsp;</h2>



The proposals outlined in the report are ambitious yet realistic, with many actions rooted in proven successful practices.



The scientists urge policymakers, retailers, and fisheries managers to acknowledge the failures of current fishing practices and prioritize adopting the proposed golden rules.&nbsp;



Supermarkets, which are responsible for nearly two-thirds of European seafood sales, play a pivotal role in driving this transition. They can influence fishing practices through their sourcing policies, scrutinize “sustainability” labels, and respond to growing consumer concerns about the hidden impacts of their food.



“We are witnessing a growing disconnect between the widespread availability of supposedly sustainable fish products, the collapse of ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-ecosystems-survive-extinctions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> and the frequency of reported human rights’ abuses. Supermarkets must stop misleading consumers,” said Pauline Bricault, markets campaign manager at <a href="https://www.bloomassociation.org/en/about-us/the-team-at-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BLOOM</a>.



“Both the IPCC and IPBES have set 2030 as a deadline for critical changes. Industry stakeholders have no more excuses, they must act now.”



The call to action is urgent, with 2030 looming as a critical deadline for implementing necessary changes to avert further damage to ocean ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future for global fisheries.



The report, titled “Rethinking sustainability of marine fisheries for a fast-changing planet,” was published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s44183-024-00078-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">npj Ocean Sustainability</a>.&nbsp;



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‘Sustainable fishing’ must be redefined to halt ocean destruction

Top ocean experts have published a report that redefines the...

Ever notice how nature doesn't stick to a single "theme"? Fields of wildflowers seamlessly transition into hardy shrubs, which give way to towering trees as you venture deeper into a landscape. This is not just coincidence. 



A recent study has brought to light nature's ingenious plan behind this apparent randomness in landscapes and habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-habitats-different-stories">Different habitats, different stories</h2>



A study conducted across 30 field sites in the UK has revealed the magic behind mother nature’s multi-faceted design. The research was led by a team of ecologists at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>.



The experts took on the task of answering some of the most pressing questions in conservation and land management. Their findings shed new light on the interplay of species across <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/landscapes-with-different-habitats-greatly-increase-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">various habitats</a>.



Why does this matter? Well, imagine a sprawling landscape as a complex jigsaw puzzle. Each distinct habitat - whether woodland, farmland, or urban area - represents a unique piece of this puzzle. 



According to the research, fitting together different habitat "pieces" leads to a more complete, richer, and vibrant picture of biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landscapes-and-habitats">Landscapes and habitats</h2>



Study lead author Dr. Talya Hackett is an alumnus of Bristol's School of Biological Sciences who is currently affiliated with the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>. 



"Conservation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-2024-a-call-for-land-restoration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restoration projects</a> are increasingly focusing on landscape-scale efforts. Yet, data on species interactions are often limited to specific habitats, such as woodlands, farmland, or urban areas," said Dr. Hackett.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-balance-of-multi-habitat-landscapes">Ecological balance of multi-habitat landscapes</h2>



The researchers unearthed significant differences in food web structures among landscapes containing one, two, or three habitats. 



The multi-habitat landscapes hosted a greater number of species and displayed an evenly distributed abundance. The diversity was not just in numbers but also in species type, with unique habitat specialists rounding off the mix.



The research offers a fresh perspective on ecosystem stability. The "multi-habitat landscape model" demonstrates an enhanced resistance to species loss. Think of it as a safety net for biodiversity.



Lose a species in one habitat, and another from a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-changing-tundra-landscapes-affect-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different habitat steps</a> in to balance the scales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-multi-habitat-landscapes">Significance of multi-habitat landscapes</h2>



Elaborating on this fascinating concept, co-lead author Professor Jane Memmott explained that landscapes are more than just a sum of their individual habitats.



They present unique properties, such as increased resilience against species loss and improved pollination, transcending their components' individual capabilities.



Taking a detour from traditional conservation strategies, the study emphasizes the importance of maintaining multi-habitat landscapes.



Our natural environments are a vibrant interplay of unique habitats that are all interconnected. It's like a relay race where each habitat passes the baton to the next, facilitating a seamless flow of life and energy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-approach-to-conservation">Comprehensive approach to conservation</h2>



Study co-author Dr. Alix Sauve noted that understanding the symbiotic relationships between habitats is key when planning new nature reserves.



Dr. Suave suggests that the landscape context of potential sites should be considered to maximize ecosystem function and long-term stability.



The study examined over 11,000 species interactions. Wild strawberries served as the "test plant" for assessing pollination efficiency within different landscapes. The results confirmed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-diseases-flourish-in-city-landscapes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat diversity</a> positively impacts pollination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-on-the-horizon">What's on the horizon?</h2>



The study has opened a Pandora's box of exciting research opportunities. The team plans to delve into investigating the effects of specific habitat combinations and their compatibility. 



Moreover, future studies might also explore other ecological functions such as seed dispersal and decomposition in multi-habitat landscapes.



This has considerable implications for agricultural practices too. It could enhance food production, pest control, and overall ecosystem health. Ultimately, the research highlights the interconnected nature of ecosystems at the landscape scale.



"Mobile species effectively glue the various habitats together, underscoring the intricate connections that sustain biodiversity and ecosystem services," said Professor Memmott.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-study">Significance of the study</h2>



To preserve our natural world in all its splendid diversity, we need to shift our focus from individual habitats to a multi-habitat landscape approach. 



Our role in nature's symphony is to maintain the harmony between different habitats to ensure the melody of biodiversity continues to play.



Just like how a landscape is a mosaic of habitats, the future of conservation management lies in embracing this multi-faceted approach. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07825-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Landscapes with a mix of habitats are biodiversity hotspots

Ever notice how nature doesn't stick to a single "theme"?...

<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.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



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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