Plastic may not always float where we expect it. The ocean’s surface might look clean in some places, but far beneath the waves, a different story is unfolding. 



In the southeastern Mediterranean, the deep seafloor is turning into a massive storage ground for plastic packaging, especially bags. A new study shows how this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-retailers-are-replacing-plastic-bags-with-eco-friendly-paper-bags/">waste</a> ends up thousands of feet below the surface, and the answer isn’t as simple as trash just “sinking.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-in-the-deep-sea">Plastic in the deep sea</h2>



Plastic debris has entered every corner of the ocean, but previously, most of the research has concentrated on floating plastic or beach trash. That changed with this latest study, which took a closer look at what is occurring on the ocean floor. 



Scientists discovered that the Levant Basin - a deep section of the eastern <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/two-continents-meet-along-the-mediterranean-coastline/">Mediterranean</a> off the coasts of Israel, Egypt, and Turkey - is among the world's most contaminated deep-sea areas.



“We used trawls to survey the seafloor and we mainly found plastic bags and packaging that dominate the debris,” said Xing-Yu Li from the <a href="https://www.haifa.ac.il/?lang=en">University of Haifa</a>, the study’s lead author.



This raised a question: how does something so light - something meant to float - end up nearly a mile underwater?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-forensic-approach-to-trash">A forensic approach to trash</h2>



To answer that, the team decided to treat each plastic item like a crime scene. Every piece of debris was carefully examined using a method called multi-marker analysis. 



This approach looks at everything about the plastic - size, shape, color, material, surface features, and even what kinds of things are stuck to it, like tar or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-organisms-may-adapt-to-climate-change-but-with-hidden-costs/">marine organisms</a>.



“In the multi-marker approach anything that is found on a piece of plastic is an evidence,” said Xing-yu. “We extracted as many evidence as possible from every piece of waste, more than many previous studies, to build a fuller, more detailed view of the bottom waste.”



Instead of just counting how much trash was found, this method helped researchers understand how it got there, why it sank, and where it might have come from.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-some-plastic-doesn-t-sink">Why some plastic doesn’t sink</h2>



Most of the plastics found were <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/everyday-kitchen-tool-that-could-be-leaching-toxins-into-your-food-polypropylene-cutting-board/">polyethylene</a> - the same material used in grocery bags. Normally, this kind of plastic floats. But when additives like calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) are mixed in during manufacturing, the plastic becomes heavier. 



Those with CaCO₃ sank closer to the shore. Others, without these additives, drifted farther out before eventually settling on the seafloor.



The study also revealed that the deep basin at over 3,000 feet deep acts like a trap. Pressure and fine sediments help keep the plastic down. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biofilms-could-change-the-way-we-track-plastic-pollution/">Biofilms</a>, which are slimy layers formed by microbes, usually help weigh plastics down too, but they don’t grow well in this part of the sea. Instead, things like tar, sand, and tiny shells helped plastics stay put.



The scientists noted that these plastic films - while thin and lightweight - are ending up where they can do the most long-term damage. 



Even more troubling, the team found that some of this plastic could become buoyant again if disturbed, but because of how the deep sea works, that rarely happens. Once the plastic settles, it stays.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-the-trash-is-coming-from">Where the trash is coming from</h2>



The plastic pollution isn’t only from local beaches. According to the research, land-based sources from Egypt, Israel, and Turkey are a big part of the problem. 



Shipping also plays a role, especially in deeper waters. Surprisingly, fishing was not a major contributor - possibly due to strict Israeli regulations.



For years, scientists noticed high levels of plastic at the seafloor, but they didn’t fully understand why. 



“For years in our monitoring reports we have reported a high concentration of plastic debris in this area. It was an unsolved mystery as we know that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-floor-harbors-up-to-11-million-tons-of-plastic-debris/">plastic debris</a> should remain floating on the sea surface. Now we have a deep understanding of how it happens,” said Dr. Yael Segal from Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research (IOLR). 



“The Eastern Mediterranean is the most polluted area in the world, and we must take action for the sake of the next generation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-risks-to-marine-life">Long-term risks to marine life</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grapevines-could-offer-a-breakthrough-alternative-to-plastic-packaging/">Plastic packaging</a> is cheap, easy to produce, and used globally - but it doesn’t go away. It breaks into smaller pieces and can remain in the environment for hundreds of years. 



Deep-sea habitats are already fragile, and adding plastic into the mix could disrupt food webs, introduce toxins, and harm species that haven’t even been fully studied yet.



“As the head of the national monitoring program, I see firsthand how plastic pollution is impacting the entire sea environment: beaches, water, sea bottom, and even local turtle populations,” said Dr. Segal.



Professor Revital Bookman said that the discovery is fascinating in the worst possible way. 



"The eastern Mediterranean is quietly turning into a deep-sea landfill. Plastics that we use for only a few minutes are ending up trapped for centuries, threatening deep marine ecosystems we barely understand," noted Professor Bookman. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-needs-to-happen-next">What needs to happen next</h2>



According to the researchers, this study changes how we should think about ocean pollution. Plastic doesn’t just float around until it hits a beach. It travels far, interacts with other pollutants like tar, and ends up in hidden places. 



“This previously overlooked dynamic necessitates a broader perspective on pollution processes in marine environments,” said Professor Bookman. 



“Without systematic deep-sea accounting, we risk underestimating the true environmental footprint of plastic pollution and misallocating mitigation efforts by neglecting offshore and deep-sea sinks.”



To deal with this, the experts call for coordinated efforts across the region. Countries that share the sea need to work together on monitoring, cleanup, and prevention. 



Without a shared strategy, plastics will continue piling up, silently choking one of the planet’s most mysterious ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0025326X25009671?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Pollution Bulletin</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Hidden plastic graveyard uncovered in the deep Mediterranean Sea

Plastic may not always float where we expect it. The ocean’s surface might look clean in some places, but far beneath the waves, a different story is unfolding. In the southeastern Mediterranean, the deep seafloor is turning into a massive storage ground for plastic packaging, especially bags. A new study shows how this waste ends up thousands of feet below the surface, and the answer isn’t as simple as trash just “sinking.” Plastic in the deep sea Plastic debris has entered every corner of the ocean, but...

Have you ever found yourself halted in the supermarket aisle, a dozen juice options staring back at you, your hand hovering between the gleaming glass bottle and the humble carton pack? That choice seems simple, yet it carries a crucial question: which packaging is more sustainable?



The choices seem endless: there's aluminum made from recycled material, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tetra-pak-will-help-restore-brazils-endangered-atlantic-forest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodegradable carton</a>, 100% recyclable glass, or even biodegradable plastic. Each option comes with its own set of promises and perceived benefits. 



Like most consumers, you might instinctively reach for the glass bottle, assuming it's the most sustainable choice.



However, it's time we unravel the surprising truth and examine the real environmental impact of these packaging options.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-illusion-of-glass-as-sustainable-packaging">The illusion of glass as sustainable packaging</h2>



"Glass was the most sought-after and the most highly esteemed packaging type," said the authors of a recent study from the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a>. This, however, is a common misconception, noted the researchers.



Contrary to popular belief, glass stands among the least sustainable options when we take into account the entire packaging life cycle.



When consumers were asked to rank packaging choices based on their perception of sustainability, the list read - glass, carton, aluminum, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/9936-chemicals-found-in-plastic-products-used-for-food-packaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a>. The truth, as it turns out, is quite different.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-sustainability-cartons-lead-the-way">Redefining sustainability: Cartons lead the way</h2>



The sustainability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-develop-smart-food-packaging-show-contamination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food packaging</a> is variable and depends on several factors, including the type of product and packaging and the container’s size and weight.



For a single-serve orange juice, the most sustainable choice would be a carton, followed by plastic, cans, and then finally - glass. This revelation was as astounding to the scientists as it is to most consumers.



“I was shocked to read the lifecycle assessment from the experts that it takes so much energy to produce glass and recycle it – much more than what it takes to make or recycle plastic,” said Nomzamo Dlamini, lead author of the paper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-sustainable-packaging-education">Need for sustainable packaging education</h2>



The researchers set out to investigate the motivations behind consumers’ packaging choices, while also considering factors like price, lifestyle, and other attitudes.



This understanding can aid industry experts in identifying what consumers prefer and believe, and hence educate them on making more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eco-labeling-promotes-sustainable-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable choices</a>.



To capture real-life scenarios in the research, a questionnaire was designed using a method called conjoint analysis. The team presented various options and assessed the trade-offs made by consumers.



According to Dlamini, the ultimate goal was "to understand at the end of the day, what matters to people."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-vs-price-ultimate-trade-off">Sustainability vs price: Ultimate trade-off</h2>



Contrary to expectations, even though many consumers expressed an intention to purchase sustainable packaging, the top motivating factor turned out to be price – mostly the lowest price – followed by packaging type, product claim, and packaging claim. 



Thus, for the 847 consumers surveyed, the ideal orange juice option turned out to be priced at $1.10 per 12 fluid ounces. The juice was packaged in glass, locally produced, and labeled as 100% <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infinitely-recyclable-plastics-may-soon-become-a-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recyclable</a>.



The message here for the food industry is clear. Consumers are motivated to choose sustainable packaging, provided the price is right. 



"Sustainable packaging options should be clearly labeled as such, effective (e.g. not defective or just as durable as conventional packaging), and affordable to increase consumers’ motivation and adoption of sustainable packaging for food and beverages," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-final-sustainability-takeaway">Final sustainability takeaway</h2>



While packaging choices play a significant role in environmental outcomes, the study underscores that the most impactful and practical way consumers can contribute to sustainability efforts is by reducing or avoiding food waste. 



This simple yet powerful action can greatly diminish the overall carbon footprint associated with food production and consumption. 



Beyond choosing eco-friendly packaging, unnecessary waste can be prevented through mindful portion sizes, proper storage, and thoughtful purchasing.



As we collectively strive towards a more sustainable future, it's crucial to remember that small, everyday actions like minimizing food waste can lead to substantial environmental benefits.



This holistic approach to sustainability not only preserves resources but also fosters a culture of conscious consumption.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/16/14/6202" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sustainability</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

What's the most sustainable packaging? The answer will surprise you

Have you ever found yourself halted in the supermarket aisle,...

In today's socio-environmental landscape, two imminent threats are converging upon our delicate coastal ecosystems: seawater flooding and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-kills-ocean-embryos-during-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic pollution</a>. 



A new study has surfaced with alarming findings: the presence of these two stressors together can significantly impact the growth and reproductive capabilities of coastal plant species.



"Coastal ecosystems face a multitude of pressures including plastic pollution and increased flood risk due to sea level rise and the frequency and severity of storms," noted the study authors.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focusing-on-hidden-coastal-threats">Focusing on hidden coastal threats</h2>



Ecosystems function in complex interdependencies, where minor changes can have profound bearings on the entire web of life. 



The study signals how two escalating issues - increased plastic use and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change-induced flooding</a> - can pose a severe combined threat. 



This puts a strain on the plants, leading to altered growth patterns, short-term suppression of photosynthetic efficiency, and eventually compromising ecosystem health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-case-study-in-environmental-stress">A case study in environmental stress</h2>



The research, led by experts at the University of Plymouth <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools/school-of-biological-and-marine-sciences" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Biological and Marine Sciences</a> and the International Marine Litter Research Unit, focused on a robust coastal species known as the buck's horn plantain.



Endemic to various corners of the globe - from Europe, Asia and North Africa, to the United States, Australia, and New Zealand - this plant species often proliferates in beach shingle and sand dune habitats.



Experimenting with this hearty plant, the research team cultivated it in soil containing conventional or biodegradable plastics for over a month. 



The plants were then inundated with seawater for 72 hours, replicating the type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/100-year-floods-will-likely-be-annual-events-by-the-end-of-the-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding events</a> that are becoming more common due to storms and coastal storm surges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disconcerting-coastal-findings">Disconcerting coastal findings </h2>



Upon analyzing metrics such as plant survival, plant size, photosynthetic efficiency, and flower production post the flooding event, the team made some disconcerting observations. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-pose-a-greater-threat-to-some-ocean-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> took a toll on the plants' reproduction, while flooding led to an increased rate of tissue death.



"This research highlights the potential for microplastics, composed of conventional and biodegradable plastic, to detrimentally affect plant functioning. Moreso, it indicates that the effect of microplastics can be magnified by other environmental factors such as rising sea levels and coastal flooding," said study lead author Dr. Winnie Courtene-Jones.



"Studies such as this help us appreciate the potential harm posed by microplastics to a range of organisms, and ecosystem resilience generally."



The findings underline the urgency to understand and address the threats posed by microplastics and climate change, especially when they converge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensifying-effects-on-coastal-plants">Intensifying effects on coastal plants</h2>



As we move forward, it is crucial to take into account the combined impact of pollution and flooding, as their effects can be dangerously pronounced when they occur together.



"Coastal dunes and grasslands play a critical role in supporting biodiversity, but are coming under increasing threat from climate change and a number of other environmental factors," said study senior author Dr. Mick Hanley. 



"That is particularly worrying given that both microplastic pollution and coastal flooding are projected to worsen and intensify over the coming decades unless ambitious global actions are implemented."



Indeed, the time is ripe to take swift, decisive action on a global scale to salvage the health and resilience of our ecosystems from these mounting stressors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solutions-for-coastal-ecosystem-preservation">Solutions for coastal ecosystem preservation</h2>



The convergence of plastic pollution and seawater flooding presents a formidable challenge, yet there is a growing consensus on the importance of integrating innovative solutions to mitigate these threats. 



Key strategies include enhancing waste management systems, promoting the usage of biodegradable materials, and implementing robust coastal management policies. 



Community engagement and education also play vital roles. By fostering awareness of the impacts of plastic pollution and climate change on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-turbidity-helps-protect-coastal-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal ecosystems</a>, we empower individuals to contribute to sustainable practices.



Furthermore, collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and local communities can harness local knowledge and scientific research to develop effective conservation strategies tailored to specific ecosystems. 



It is imperative that we act collectively to promote resilience within our coastal habitats, ensuring they continue to support biodiversity and provide essential resources for future generations. 



“Think globally, act locally” is a guiding principle that must resonate in our collective pursuit of ecological sustainability.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749124012879?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Pollution</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Coastal plants endangered by plastic pollution and flooding

In today's socio-environmental landscape, two imminent threats are converging upon...

Unpredictable as they may seem, the forces of nature never cease to surprise us. Yet, the fact remains that the better we understand these forces, the better we can anticipate their impact. The latest in the mysterious saga of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stability-of-antarctica-is-threatened-by-submarine-canyons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural occurrences</a> is the rising earth beneath the Antarctica <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-past-present-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice Sheet</a>, a phenomenon taking precedence in our fight against future sea level rise. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rise-and-fall-of-sea-levels-in-antarctica">Rise and fall of sea levels in Antarctica</h2>



While it may appear to be a motionless mass, our 'solid' ground is always on the move, sinking and rising in response to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-low-antarctic-sea-ice-and-rapid-melting-pace-stuns-climate-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental shifts</a>. 



Now, Antarctica, already in the spotlight for melting glacial ice, adds another interesting twist. As the ice melts, the reduced weight on the bedrock allows it to rise. 



How this rising ground interacts with the overlying ice and consequently impacts sea level rise intrigued Terry Wilson - a senior research scientist at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center at The <a href="https://www.osu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ohio State University</a> - and her team.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-lies-in-the-balance">What lies in the balance</h2>



To make sense of this, Wilson's fellow researchers at <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a> developed an impressive model. It predicts how these earth-ice interactions could influence global sea level and, surprisingly, it points to some good news. 



But, what could be good about rising sea levels? Well, if we manage to lower greenhouse gas emissions and slow global warming, the model suggests that the upward shifts in the solid earth could lessen Antarctica's contribution to sea level rise by a whopping 40 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-antarctica-rising-sea">Rising Antarctica, rising sea</h2>



Yet, we must face the reality that if we fail to reduce carbon emissions in time, the scales tip the other way. With higher emissions, ice retreat outstrips the uplift and magnifies sea level rise. This scenario could worsen sea level rise predictions along populated coastlines according to Wilson.



“Our measurements show that the solid earth that forms the base of the Antarctic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-new-tipping-point-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet</a> is changing shape surprisingly quickly,“ said Wilson. “The land uplift from reduced ice on the surface is happening in decades, rather than over thousands of years.”&nbsp;



The study uses data obtained from the Antarctic Network (ANET) of the Polar Earth Observing Network (POLENET) project. By conducting a series of simulations, the researchers predicted potential evolutions of Antarctica’s ice sheet and the extent of global sea level rise until the year 2500.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-every-action-counts">Every action counts</h2>



"We can project what difference it will make if we all contribute to a low-emission scenario now, versus what’s come to be called ‘business as usual’ emissions,” said Wilson.



Her research is a testament to how our individual, national, and global actions can impact the health of our planet and shape our future.



The study is crucial in understanding how changes in Antarctica could influence sea levels worldwide. With almost 700 million people living in coastal regions, mitigating conditions like atmospheric and ocean warming becomes a pressing issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-at-stake">What’s at stake?</h2>



With climate change effects becoming increasingly apparent, this work emphasizes the urgency of action. It reinforces that our collective decisions can shape the kind of Earth our next generations will inherit. 



This insightful study ties in seamlessly with a broader dialogue on climate change, the environment, and our shared responsibility in preserving our future.



The study was achieved with invaluable contributions from scientists across various universities and was generously supported by the U.S National Science Foundation and the <a href="https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/index_eng.asp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada</a>.



This piece of research has further untangled the complex relationship between the solid earth and the processes it undergoes. As our planet evolves, consistent data gathering and prompt, accurate predictions are critical in navigating the environmental changes we face.



“There’s a lot of uncertainty in every model and every prediction that you make,” said Wilson. “But to document how fast our world is changing, it’s very important to continue advancing our ability to make predictions that are more certain, which is the only path that will allow us to tend to our future in a meaningful way.”



And remember, whether it's a small switch to sustainable alternatives or a vote for environmental policies, every action we take brings us a step closer to preserving our home. So, what steps will you take today?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn1470" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and Earth.com.



-----

Antarctica's land is lifting, and it may reduce sea level rise

Unpredictable as they may seem, the forces of nature never...

In today's world, many Indigenous communities heavily rely on local food production, which forms an integral part of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seed-systems-will-play-a-key-role-in-future-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a> and overall health.



Yet, these "informal" economies often go unnoticed in the macro economic statistics, which results in them being sidelined in policies devised to tackle climate change. 



Arctic communities, undergoing rapid transformation due to ever-changing social, economic, and climatic scenarios, are prime examples of this predicament.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-local-food-production">Role of local food production </h2>



These communities are home to a blend of traditional and formal economic practices, involving hunting, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fishing-communities-cooperate-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a>, gathering, and trapping along with wage-based jobs. 



With carbon taxation policies introduced in Canada, the cost of fuel used in local food harvesting has become a paramount concern.



To better understand the sensitivity of Arctic food systems to carbon tax policy, scientists have plunged into an elaborate study.



The research was led by experts from the <a href="https://www.eva.mpg.de/index/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology</a>, in collaboration with the Innovation, Inuvialuit Science, and Climate Change Division of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation.



The objective was to calculate the economic and environmental significance of local food production in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region in the western Canadian Arctic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-vs-imported-foods">Local vs. imported foods</h2>



The scientists collated data from a 2018 regional study of harvesting. They set out to estimate the total edible weight of food produced by the local Inuit harvesters in a year's duration.



A comparison was made with the costs of replacing these foods with market substitutes like beef, pork, chicken, or farmed fish.



Furthermore, the team gathered information from agriculture and transport science to estimate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/circular-economy-needed-to-reduce-americas-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a> resulting from production and shipping of these market substitutes to the Arctic communities.



The data from a community-based study of Inuit harvesting in Ulukhaktok was also taken into account to estimate the gasoline used per kilogram of food harvested. 



These figures helped the researchers infer the total amount of gasoline used in local food production in the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-efficiency-of-local-food-production">Efficiency of local food production</h2>



The results were surprising. Under plausible scenarios, replacing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-locally-produced-foods-can-reduce-transport-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">locally-harvested foods</a> in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region with imported market substitutes would cost over 3.1 million Canadian dollars per year and emit over 1,000 tons of CO2-equivalent emissions annually.



On the contrary, gasoline inputs to local harvesting cost around 295,000 Canadian dollars resulting in 317 to 496 tons of emissions, less than half of what would be emitted by market substitutes.



"Our findings illustrate how local food harvesting, even when reliant on fossil fuels – as is the case in Canadian Arctic communities – are more economically-efficient and less carbon intensive than industrial food production," said Elspeth Ready, one of the leading researchers.



"Local food harvesting also reduces reliance on supply chains that are vulnerable to climate change."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tailoring-policies-to-local-needs">Tailoring policies to local needs</h2>



The study underscores that climate change policies need to be locally adapted to ensure they do not undermine emission targets and inadvertently impact food security and health in remote communities.



Such communities face heightened economic and logistical constraints compared to more populated regions. By omitting the potential impact on local food production, the entire climate change narrative becomes flawed.



This breakthrough finding not only highlights the importance of locally adapted policies but also marks the inception of a statistical modeling approach capable of laying a foundation for similar studies in other regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications-and-community-engagement">Future implications and community engagement</h2>



As we move forward, it's essential to involve local communities in shaping policies affecting their food systems. Including indigenous populations in decision-making respects their knowledge and integrates it into climate strategies, leading to more effective solutions for Arctic communities.



Promoting local food production enhances food sovereignty, reducing dependence on external markets and allowing communities to control their food sources. Educational programs on sustainable harvesting can empower residents and build resilience against climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-markets-for-local-products">Creating markets for local products </h2>



Investing in local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-food-systems-are-gaining-momentum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food systems</a> supports environmental sustainability and economic development. Furthermore, creating markets for local products and providing resources can stimulate job creation and improve community well-being.



Ultimately, addressing climate change requires a holistic approach that values local food production. 



By supporting indigenous practices and prioritizing community engagement, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for Arctic regions and beyond.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Local food production is undervalued in the context of climate change

In today's world, many Indigenous communities heavily rely on local...

Current climate policies carry a significant risk of triggering critical Earth system tipping points, even if global temperatures are later reduced to below 1.5°C after a temporary overshoot. A new study published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-49863-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a> suggests that these risks can be mitigated if temperature increases are quickly reversed.



Human-induced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-abruptly-push-species-over-their-tipping-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> can destabilize large-scale Earth system components, known as tipping elements, such as ice sheets, ocean circulation patterns, and key global biospheres.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnected-climate-tipping-points-nbsp">Interconnected climate tipping points&nbsp;</h2>



Researchers from the <a href="https://iiasa.ac.at/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis</a> (IIASA) and the <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research</a> (PIK) examined the risks posed to four interconnected core climate tipping elements under current mitigation efforts and future emission scenarios.



The study focused on the potential destabilization of the Greenland Ice Sheet, the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Rainforest</a>.&nbsp;



These elements are crucial for maintaining the stability of the Earth's climate system. Global warming can induce sudden changes in these systems, leading to irreversible outcomes.



The analysis emphasizes the critical importance of adhering to the climate targets set by the Paris Agreement and highlights the long-term consequences of our climate actions today.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-tipping-points-in-the-coming-centuries-nbsp">Climate tipping points in the coming centuries&nbsp;</h2>



“Our results show that to effectively limit tipping risks over the coming centuries and beyond, we must achieve and maintain net-zero greenhouse gas emissions,” explained co-lead author Tessa Möller, a researcher with the IIASA Energy, Climate, and Environment Program and at PIK.



“Following current policies this century would commit us to a high tipping risk of 45% by 2300, even if temperatures are brought back to below 1.5°C after a period of overshoot.”&nbsp;



The study revealed that substantial tipping risks could materialize by 2300 under various future emission scenarios. If global temperatures do not return to below 1.5°C by 2100, despite achieving net-zero greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/countries-net-zero-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>, there is up to a 24% chance that at least one of the key tipping elements will reach a critical threshold. This risk increases significantly with every tenth of a degree of warming above 1.5°C.



“We see an increase in tipping risk with every tenth of a degree of overshoot above 1.5°C. If we were to also surpass 2°C of global warming, tipping risks would escalate even more rapidly,” said co-lead author Annika Ernest Högner, a scientist at PIK.



“This is very concerning as scenarios that follow currently implemented climate policies are estimated to result in about 2.6°C global warming by the end of this century.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-reversal-of-warming">Rapid reversal of warming</h2>



The study stresses that only a rapid reversal of warming after any overshoot can effectively limit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-tipping-points-report-shows-humanity-on-a-disastrous-trajectory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tipping risks</a>. This necessitates achieving at least net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;



“Our study underscores that this global mitigation objective, enshrined in Article 4 of the Paris Agreement, is vital for planetary stability,” said Carl Schleussner, leader of the IIASA Integrated Climate Impacts Research Group and one of the study's authors



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interactions-between-climate-tipping-elements-nbsp">Interactions between climate tipping elements&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers noted that current advanced models used to study Earth systems may not fully capture the complex behaviors, feedback loops, and interactions between tipping elements.&nbsp;



To address these limitations, the team employed a simplified Earth system model using four connected mathematical equations to represent these tipping elements. This approach allowed them to include future stabilizing interactions, such as the cooling effect of a weakened <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-could-collapse-the-atlantic-circulation-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMOC</a> on the Northern Hemisphere.



“This analysis of tipping point risks adds further support to the conclusion that we are underestimating risks, and need to now recognize that the legally binding objective in the Paris Agreement of holding global warming to well below 2°C, in reality, means limiting global warming to 1.5°C,” concluded PIK Director and study co-author Johan Rockström.



“Due to insufficient emission reductions, we run an ever-increasing risk of a period of overshooting this temperature limit, which we need to minimize at all costs to reduce dire impacts to people across the world.”&nbsp;



The study's findings highlight the urgent need for global action to limit global warming and prevent critical tipping points in the Earth's climate system. 



The potential irreversible changes underscore the importance of immediate and sustained efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adhere to international climate agreements.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Can we still prevent critical climate tipping points?

Current climate policies carry a significant risk of triggering critical...

Tropical glaciers have shrunk to their smallest size in over 11,700 years, according to researchers at <a href="https://www.bc.edu/">Boston College</a>. 



These results, derived from rocks newly exposed after being covered by prehistoric ice, indicate that the tropics have warmed beyond levels last seen in the early Holocene epoch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-melting-of-tropical-glaciers">Unexpected melting of tropical glaciers  </h2>



Scientists have long predicted that tropical glaciers would melt as temperatures rise in regions near the Earth's equator. However, the analysis of rock samples near four glaciers in the Andes Mountains shows that this retreat has occurred much faster than expected, crossing a significant climatological threshold.&nbsp;



“We have pretty strong evidence that these glaciers are smaller now than they have been any time in the past 11,000 years," said co-author Jeremy Shakun, an associate professor of earth and environmental sciences at Boston College.



"Given that modern glacier retreat is mostly due to rising temperatures - as opposed to less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowfall</a>, or changes in cloud cover - our findings suggest the tropics have already warmed outside their Holocene range and into the Anthropocene."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-glaciers-a-sign-of-the-times">Tropical glaciers: A sign of the times</h2>



This shift means that glaciers, traditionally classified within the Holocene interglacial period - an epoch characterized by the development of human civilization - may now be better categorized within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/welcome-to-humanitys-new-era-the-anthropocene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthropocene</a>, an era defined by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems.



The implications of this study are stark, suggesting that many of the world's glaciers are likely retreating much faster than previously predicted, possibly by decades. 



“This is the first large region of the planet where we have strong evidence that glaciers have crossed this important benchmark - it is a ‘canary in the coalmine’ for glaciers everywhere,” Shakun warned.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-vs-natural-fluctuations-nbsp">Climate change vs. natural fluctuations&nbsp;</h2>



While it is known that glaciers have been retreating worldwide over the past century, it has been unclear how this retreat compares to natural fluctuations over the last several millennia. To address this, the research team set out to determine the current size of tropical glaciers compared to their size over the past 11,000 years.



An international team of scientists traveled to Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia to analyze the chemistry of bedrock recently exposed by retreating glaciers in the tropical Andes. They measured concentrations of two rare isotopes - beryllium-10 and carbon-14 - which accumulate in bedrock surfaces when exposed to cosmic radiation.&nbsp;



“By measuring the concentrations of these isotopes in the recently exposed bedrock we can determine how much time in the past the bedrock was exposed, which tells us how often the glaciers were smaller than today - kind of like how a sunburn can tell you how long someone was out in the sun,” Shakun explained.



“We found essentially no beryllium-10 or radiocarbon-14 in any of the 18 bedrock samples we measured in front of four tropical glaciers,” said lead author Andrew Gorin, now a PhD student at UC Berkeley. “That tells us there was never any significant prior exposure to cosmic radiation since these glaciers formed during the last ice age.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-largest-tropical-ice-mass-nbsp">Largest tropical ice mass&nbsp;</h2>



The results of this investigation are supported by research conducted twenty years ago at the Quelccaya Ice Cap in Peru, the largest tropical ice mass in the world. There, researchers discovered rooted plant remains melting out of the ice margin, dated to be 5,000 years old.&nbsp;



The findings indicated that Quelccaya had remained larger than its current size for millennia, as the plants would have decayed if previously exposed.&nbsp;



Shakun noted that while these findings suggested modern ice retreat was abnormally large, it had not yet reached an alarming level compared to the entire Holocene.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-a-broad-range-of-glaciers">Studying a broad range of glaciers</h2>



The team aimed to study a broader range of glaciers to conclusively determine if any had ever been smaller than today.



Shakun and his colleagues have applied this technique to glaciers along the entire American Cordillera, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego. They published their North American results last year and plan to release findings from southern South America soon.&nbsp;



“Once we do that, then these studies can all be put together into a global perspective on the current state of glacier retreat,” Shakun said.



This research underscores the urgency of addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, as the rapid retreat of tropical glaciers highlights the profound impact of rising temperatures. The evidence points to a need for global action to mitigate these effects and preserve vital ecosystems.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adg7546" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Tropical glaciers offer a glimpse of our harsh climate reality

Tropical glaciers have shrunk to their smallest size in over...

A surprising fact most people aren't aware of is the silent, deadly menace that is air pollution. It's an unseen danger that affects us all, yet does not gain the attention it deserves. 



Despite the significant impact it has on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-research-proves-that-air-pollution-causes-heart-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human health</a>, the general public is not as informed about air pollution as we would hope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deadly-reality-of-air-pollution">Deadly reality of air pollution</h2>



Air pollution is quite literally a matter of life and death. It's not just an environmental issue - it's a dire health crisis. Indeed, studies list it as one of the top three causes of premature mortality.



The effects of air pollution are so profound that it shaves off about three years from global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-expectancy-drop-men-in-the-u-s-die-six-years-before-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life expectancy</a>, particularly impacting urban communities where it tends to be the worst.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-s-global-toll">Air pollution's global toll</h2>



The grim situation is that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution kills</a> between seven to nine million people worldwide each year, with 200,000 of these deaths occurring in the United States alone. 



This toxic pollution doesn't respect state lines - it drifts freely across borders, causing harm wherever it flows.



As we learned from the team at the <a href="https://www.nd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Notre Dame</a>, this interstate pollution issue has been further complicated by a recent Supreme Court decision to halt a crucial federal rule aimed at reducing emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-good-neighbor-plan">The Good Neighbor Plan </h2>



The halted plan, known as the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) "Good Neighbor Plan," was part of the Clean Air Act. 



The legislation would require "upwind" states - states where industrial and power plant emissions originate and then drift to other states due to wind patterns - to implement plans to reduce ground-level ozone and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nitrous-oxide-emissions-have-increased-at-an-unprecedented-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen oxide emissions</a>.



However, this initiative was challenged by three states - Indiana, Ohio, and West Virginia - along with several large industrial companies and trade organizations. This led to a standoff at the Supreme Court and the subsequent disruption of the Good Neighbor Plan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-for-downwind-states">Challenges for downwind states</h2>



The truth is, the so-called "downwind" states are left bearing a disproportionate burden. These are states that receive significant pollution from the upwind states, and their struggles for clean air have been examined in depth by researchers.



One of the tools available for these downwind states is Section 126 of the Clean Air Act, which allows them to appeal to the EPA directly to regulate sources of interstate air pollution.



But the study found that despite 13 petitions filed through Section 126 by downwind states between 2000 and 2022, the system has been ineffective. 



The states face lengthy response times, infrequent acceptance of their petitions, and the demand to deliver proof of failed improvement plans - a level of insider information that these downwind states are unlikely to have access to.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-political-boundaries">Beyond political boundaries</h2>



So, where does this leave us? As things stand, the burden of proof in court falls on the downwind states. 



The current system fails to address the reality that pollution may disproportionally affect a downwind state, without it having the power to do something about it. 



It's a drawback of a system that fails to reflect the actual dispersion of pollution, as it is currently based on political boundaries, not physical ones.



Our understanding and management of air pollution need a radical re-evaluation. We need to move toward air quality assessments based on actual pollution dispersion boundaries rather than political ones, which would ensure that pollution isn't simply exported to neighboring states through energy production and industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-air-quality-management">Rethinking air quality management</h2>



The team at the University of Notre Dame believes that the focus should be on creating new regulatory boundaries that group together areas experiencing similar air quality conditions. 



The researchers are currently working on a companion study outlining proposals for such a redefined <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-tempo-mission-will-revolutionize-air-quality-monitoring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> management system.



In the meantime, the status quo remains dangerous. The Supreme Court's decision has left the EPA and affected states without a timely solution to the growing air pollution problem, exposing the shortcomings of our current regulatory system in protecting human health and the environment.



Ultimately, what we need is a system that prioritizes human health and protects the rights of those who are most affected by air pollution - the downwind states.



The fight for clean air and healthier communities continues, and it's one we cannot afford to lose.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00267-024-02002-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Management</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

States downwind of pollution bear a disproportionate burden

A surprising fact most people aren't aware of is the...

Coral,Bleaching,Under,Water,Okinawa,japan

A team of international marine biologists has provided unprecedented insights into coral bleaching responses to stress using cutting-edge imaging technology. 



Their study, published on July 31 in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0303779" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a>, details the survival rates of coral colonies following multiple bleaching events around the island of Maui.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-patterns-of-coral-growth-during-bleaching">Patterns of coral growth during bleaching</h2>



The research, led by <a href="https://scripps.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scripps Oceanography's Smith Lab</a>, involved tracking 1,832 coral colonies using a time series of 3D coral reef models from Maui, collected between 2014 and 2021. 



This seven-year dataset offered a detailed annual view of the reefs, allowing the team to observe patterns of coral growth and survival through significant bleaching events in 2015 and 2019.



The study aimed to differentiate between natural selection, where only the hardiest corals survive, and acclimatization, where individual corals develop increased heat tolerance over time due to repeated exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/corals-can-be-trained-to-endure-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat stress</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-corals-are-more-resilient-nbsp">Some corals are more resilient&nbsp;</h2>



Despite some corals bleaching and dying, others showed promising resilience, surviving both bleaching events without showing significant changes in growth over time. This resilience offers new hope for coral conservation and restoration strategies.



“This is one of the first studies to use this type of time series to look at multiple coral bleaching events and how the processes of acclimatization and selection play out,” said lead author Orion McCarthy, a recent graduate of Scripps Oceanography who conducted the research as a PhD student.&nbsp;



“We found that older corals, which are more likely to have survived multiple bleaching events, could be a good source of outplants for coral restoration.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corals-are-increasingly-threatened-nbsp">Corals are increasingly threatened&nbsp;</h2>



As ocean temperatures rise due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-study-provides-answers-to-how-coral-reefs-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, coral reefs are increasingly threatened by bleaching events. These events occur when corals, stressed by prolonged warming, expel the symbiotic algae living within their tissues.&nbsp;



This expulsion causes the corals to turn white, or “bleach,” as they lose their primary source of food. If the elevated water temperatures persist, the affected corals may die.&nbsp;



However, some corals can survive low- to moderate-strength <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching</a> events, reshaping the reef's composition and its future responses to similar stressors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-responses-varied-across-bleaching-events">Coral responses varied across bleaching events</h2>



In this study, the two measured bleaching events were of moderate strength, characterized by a sustained increase in sea-surface temperatures of more than one degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) over several months.&nbsp;



Despite experiencing similar thermal stress in both 2015 and 2019, coral responses varied. Some corals bleached and died after the first event, others did not bleach at all, some bleached during both events but survived, and others only bleached the first time.&nbsp;



Interestingly, resilient corals were often found adjacent to more sensitive ones, despite being the same species and facing identical environmental conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acclimatization-capabilities-of-some-coral-species">Acclimatization capabilities of some coral species</h2>



The research highlighted the acclimatization capabilities of certain coral species, particularly Porites lobata, which showed resilience to bleaching. Conversely, Pocillopora corals exhibited the lowest levels of survivorship.&nbsp;



“Based on our observations, we recommend that restoration practitioners in Hawaii should focus on colonies of Porites and Montipora with a proven track-record of growth and survival,” advised McCarthy, who now works as a science lead for <a href="https://www.sustainablesurf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sustainable Surf</a>, a nonprofit focused on marine ecosystem restoration.



The team credited the innovative use of 3D imaging technology for their ability to detect and analyze acclimatization and selection processes. 



The technology enabled detailed tracking of coral colonies that traditional in-water surveys would have missed. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-3d-representation-of-reefs">Comprehensive 3D representation of reefs</h2>



The 3D time series project, initiated by Scripps Oceanography marine biologist Jennifer Smith and her former PhD student Emily Kelly, employs photogrammetry to create detailed models of coral reefs.&nbsp;



This technique involves capturing thousands of overlapping underwater images, which are then stitched together using advanced software to produce a comprehensive 3D representation of the reefs.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/coral-bleaching_3D-model_timelapse_credit-Smith-Lab_1s.webp" alt="Researchers use a timeseries of coral reef 3D models to study coral bleaching in Maui. Credit: Smith Lab, 100 Island Challenge" class="wp-image-1940457"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Researchers use a timeseries of coral reef 3D models to study coral bleaching in Maui. Credit: Smith Lab, 100 Island Challenge</figcaption></figure>



For the past decade, Smith and her team have used this technology to monitor fixed sites off Maui, as part of the <a href="https://100islandchallenge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">100 Island Challenge</a> - a global initiative aimed at documenting coral reef changes over time using large-area imagery.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-watching-coral-response-to-bleaching-nbsp">Watching coral response to bleaching&nbsp;</h2>



“This approach has revolutionized our ability to study long-term changes in coral reef communities at very fine scales,” said Smith, a professor of marine biology at Scripps Oceanography.&nbsp;



“We can literally watch these systems change in 3D; we can watch corals grow and shrink and visualize how they respond to global stressors. We can use the knowledge gained from using this approach for education and outreach and our results can help to inform management and conservation action.”



McCarthy likened the study of coral responses to bleaching events to examining human health outcomes after successive pandemic-like events.&nbsp;



By observing individual responses during a single event - such as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-death-toll-of-covid-19-pandemic-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19 pandemic</a> - researchers can identify traits associated with better or worse outcomes.&nbsp;



A subsequent event provides further data on survivors' resilience, similar to how researchers study coral responses to successive bleaching events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-foundation-for-coral-conservation-nbsp">Valuable foundation for coral conservation&nbsp;</h2>



The study underscores the importance of addressing climate change, the primary driver of ocean warming and coral bleaching. Severe bleaching events pose a significant threat to coral reefs, potentially leading to widespread mortality.&nbsp;



“Coral reefs are dynamic and bleaching isn't necessarily going to kill every coral - at least not in the short term - so there is still cause for hope for these reefs and a need for active conservation,” said McCarthy.&nbsp;



“Tools like 3D modeling are allowing us to get a more specific understanding of which corals are living and which ones aren't, and we can use that information to help guide coral restoration efforts.”



Overall, this research represents a significant advancement in understanding coral resilience and provides a valuable foundation for developing effective coral conservation and restoration strategies in the face of climate change.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Coral response to bleaching captured in unprecedented detail 

A team of international marine biologists has provided unprecedented insights...

Ever wondered about the weather conditions down in the deep sea? Like the silent depths, the answer holds more intrigue and revelation than you might first imagine.



Just the latest word in from a compelling new study published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01494-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>. It seems the deep sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-circumpolar-current-speed-increasing-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">currents</a>, much like our terrestrial weather, are not quite as steady and predictable as we thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-in-the-deep-sea">Weather in the deep sea</h2>



The seafloor, the ultimate destination for different kinds of particles, stores a wealth of information. From sand and mud to organic carbon food for seafloor organisms, even pollutants, they all end up there. 



These accumulations provide us invaluable clues to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-paradox-ocean-current-collapse-could-plunge-europe-into-cold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">past climates</a>, natural hazards, and oceanic conditions. It's like a historical archive but with data that extends far beyond human records.



Dr. Mike Clare, the leading scientist on the project from the <a href="https://noc.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanography Centre</a> (NOC), paints a vivid picture of the ocean deep.&nbsp;



“It is important to understand the behavior and pathways of currents that operate in the deep sea, in order to determine pathways of natural and human-made particles and make sense of those records preserved in deposits," said Dr. Clare.



“However, there have been very few direct measurements made of currents that flow across the seafloor in deep waters. Most are made high above the seafloor, over short timescales, and only at individual locations. Until now we have not understood how dynamic seafloor currents can be in the deep sea."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensing-the-pulse-of-the-ocean">Sensing the pulse of the ocean</h2>



In a trailblazing effort, researchers from the UK, Canada, Germany, and Italy teamed up. Over four years, they analyzed data from the largest array of sensors ever deployed in the deep sea.&nbsp;



Thirty-four deep-sea moorings armed with high-frequency Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (think underwater speed cameras for currents) measured the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ocean-warming-four-times-faster-than-global-average/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seafloor</a> currents at water depths up to 2.5 km.



The findings challenged longstanding assumptions. Contrary to previous models that suggested a continuous and steady flow of currents, the data collected indicated that the currents were anything but uniform.



The deep ocean currents were characterized by periods of acceleration, moments of slowdown, and even instances where they reversed direction entirely.



This variability was often influenced by local factors, particularly the irregular relief of the seafloor, which created a dynamic interplay that shaped the flow patterns in unexpected ways. 



Such insights not only deepen our understanding of oceanic currents but also highlight the intricate relationships between underwater topography and fluid dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-deep-sea-weather">Insights into deep-sea weather</h2>



Professor Elda Miramontes from MARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Geosciences at the <a href="https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bremen</a>, is excited by the novelty and the potential implications of these measurements. 



"These are the first measurements of deep-sea currents across such a large area, long duration and so close to the seafloor. This makes them extremely valuable as they will help improve our models for reconstructing past changes related to climate change in the ocean," noted Professor Miramontes.



“The ocean bottom currents offshore Mozambique are far more variable than we expected," said study lead author Dr. Lewis Bailey. "Just like currents in the upper ocean, their intensity changes between seasons and can even flip backwards and forwards over the course of several hours."



Study co-author Dr. Ian Kane said that seeing how these currents behave is a bit like observing the weather in Manchester - always changing and often surprising. 



"But observing change in the deep sea is really challenging and, until now, we have had a poor understanding of what background conditions are like in the deep-sea," noted Dr. Kane.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-deep-sea-dynamics">Understanding deep sea dynamics</h2>



Amusing to Dr. Clare, this study underlines the importance of sustained deep-sea observations, which provide critical information on understanding the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-ocean-currents-slowing-as-water-temperature-rises/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a>. 



"More detailed observations are critical for understanding the important role bottom currents play in transporting sediment, carbon and pollutants across our planet."



With these breakthrough findings, we have taken a significant stride towards understanding our oceans better. However, the mysteries of the deep are still far from fully unveiled. 



As we continue exploring, what other surprises might the deep sea have in store for us? Only time, and our ceaseless curiosity, will tell.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01494-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



-----



Like what you read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and Earth.com.



-----

Weather in the deep sea is not as predictable as we thought

Ever wondered about the weather conditions down in the deep...

Migration is at the forefront of the climate crisis, as the globe faces unprecedented environmental challenges, including extreme weather events, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/">bio</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity loss</a>, and resource scarcity.



Humanity's response needs to be reimagined, with a growing recognition that international collaboration and coordinated efforts are crucial. 



As rising temperatures and sea levels threaten landscapes and displace communities worldwide, the movement of people from their homes has become an urgent reality that cannot be ignored. 



Climate-induced migration is not a distant concern; it is a pressing issue that is happening now, demanding immediate attention and comprehensive action to address its complexities and impacts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-to-rethink-climate-migration">Urgent need to rethink climate migration</h2>



An impactful study published recently by climate and social scientists from reputed institutions such as <a href="https://www.wur.nl/en/education-programmes/wageningen-university.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wageningen University</a>, <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>, and <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing University</a> puts forth a strong argument.



The experts emphasize the importance of facilitating movement among different geographical locations to ensure stability and prosperity in the face of the climate crisis.



Professor Marten Scheffer of Wageningen University stated: "Millions of people are projected to be displaced by sea-level rise in the next decades, and two billion could be exposed to extreme heat beyond their experience by the end of the century."



Ignoring or underestimating the shift in human populations could lead to global discord and a divided world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-borders-not-spirits">Breaking borders, not spirits</h2>



Countries have traditionally seen migration in terms of borders and national security only, but the researchers are urging a shift in perspective.



The study highlights the increasing instances of climate-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-migration-a-good-response-to-climate-change-the-answer-is-complicated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a> within countries, where individuals leave areas affected by long-term agricultural productivity decline or escape from extreme conditions such as coastal erosion. This internal migration plays out differently across nations.



Large countries with varied climate zones have a relative advantage, while smaller nations face significant challenges. 



The study also points out the inherent wealth disparity that hinders internal and inter-state migration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barriers-to-climate-migration">Barriers to climate migration</h2>



"While many animal species are already changing their geographical distribution in response to climate change, humanity now faces increasing barriers to this," noted Professor Tim Lenton.



"Global warming exacerbates existing inequalities, making habitability a major political challenge of this century."



The researchers maintain that the solution lies in global cooperation to address migration flows and demand for labor, benefiting both the Global South and the developed world.



The paper also proposes a major reform in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food system</a>, suggesting that migration can increase production while conserving nature. They suggest a shift towards plant-based diets and reducing meat consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-migration-can-be-a-win-win">Climate migration can be a win-win</h2>



Far from seeing migration as a threat, the researchers argue that it can actually be a win-win for both people and the climate.



However, this requires global leaders to constructively communicate the economic benefits of migration and effective integration. 



"Every corner of the world needs to anticipate the coming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-crisis-global-supply-chains-face-25-trillion-in-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a> and promote the safe and beneficial movement of people as conditions change," said Professor Neil Adger.



Embracing this outlook on migration is not just about ensuring a better future for those on the move but for our planet as a whole. 



Integrating the movement of people into our strategies to combat climate change is not just necessary - it is urgent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-technology-in-managing-migration">The role of technology in managing migration </h2>



Technology plays a crucial role in managing climate-induced migration by offering innovative solutions to make migration safer and more efficient.



Data analytics and GIS can predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-migration-patterns-will-result-in-rapidly-aging-coastal-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration patterns</a> and identify at-risk areas, allowing for proactive resource allocation and reducing the humanitarian impact of displacement.



Additionally, technology enhances communication for migrants, providing information on safe routes, available services, and legal rights through mobile apps and platforms. Social media helps build networks and fosters a sense of community among migrants.



Investing in sustainable technologies, such as renewable energy and climate-resilient infrastructure, creates economic opportunities for displaced populations. 



By integrating technology into migration strategies, we can address immediate needs and build a more resilient future, turning migration into an opportunity for global collaboration and growth.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/one-earth/abstract/S2590-3322(24)00312-9?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2590332224003129%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Earth</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Climate migration is an urgent reality that cannot be ignored

Migration is at the forefront of the climate crisis, as...

A recent study has shown that North Sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-near-oil-and-gas-sites-linked-to-hidden-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oil and gas</a> extraction can lead to a dramatic increase in pollution levels, with contaminants like hydrocarbons rising by more than 10,000% within half a kilometer of offshore platforms.&nbsp;



The collaborative research, conducted by the<a href="https://www.essex.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> University of Essex</a>, the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum</a>, and the Center for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science (<a href="https://www.cefas.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CEFAS</a>), found a significant decline in the number of species around offshore platforms, with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> dropping nearly 30 percent. 



This new data provides a clearer picture of the environmental impact of fossil fuel extraction, particularly on Britain's seabed life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollution-near-offshore-platforms-nbsp">Pollution near offshore platforms&nbsp;</h2>



The research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172536" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>, focused on pollutants such as hydrocarbons and heavy metals, including lead, copper, and nickel.&nbsp;



The findings revealed that hydrocarbon levels were up to 10,613% higher and heavy metal concentrations were 455% higher within 500 meters of the platforms compared to areas further away.&nbsp;



The study highlights how these pollutants accumulate around platforms, significantly affecting marine invertebrates, which are crucial for underwater ecosystems as they serve as prey for larger animals like fish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-loss-from-oil-and-gas-production-nbsp">Biodiversity loss from oil and gas production&nbsp;</h2>



Zelin Chen, a PhD student who led the research, explained the extensive impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-near-oil-and-gas-sites-linked-to-hidden-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrocarbon extraction</a> on biodiversity. 



“We’ve known for a while that hydrocarbon extraction can impact biodiversity, but this is the first-time consistent trends have been found across several platforms,” said Chen.&nbsp;



“There were clear changes in community diversity and composition, with a general decrease in the number and type of species near the platforms after oil and gas production began.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-webs-near-offshore-platforms">Food webs near offshore platforms </h2>



The study authors analyzed data for 4,216 species collected from 1981 to 2012 at nine oil and gas platforms off the coasts of Scotland and England.&nbsp;



The results showed a reduction in species richness and a simplification of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-restructures-marine-food-webs-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food webs</a> within 500 meters of the platforms.&nbsp;



These food webs, which describe the feeding interactions among species, became simpler and smaller in the impacted sediments.&nbsp;



Large predators like starfish were notably absent near the platforms, while smaller organisms like worms thrived in the contaminated environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-declines-in-species-richness-nbsp">Significant declines in species richness&nbsp;</h2>



The experts used chemical data to define an impact zone within 500m of a platform, a buffer zone within 500-1500m, as&nbsp; well as unimpacted areas beyond that. 



This approach allowed the team to compare biological samples from different zones taken before and after oil and gas production commenced.&nbsp;



The findings showed a significant 28% decline in species richness in the impacted sites and fewer connections within the food webs closer to the platforms.



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



The implications of these findings are concerning, especially as many of these platforms are approaching the end of their operational life.&nbsp;



“This is important because simpler food webs with shorter food chains are highly indicative of less productive areas under environmental stress,” said Eoin O’Gorman from the University of Essex, emphasizing the environmental significance of the study's findings.



Dr. Natalie Hicks, also from Essex, stressed the need for careful decommissioning of these platforms. She said they are leaving a potentially concerning legacy, particularly as many are reaching the end of life.&nbsp;



“Many of these sites will be decommissioned in the coming decade and we need to collaborate closely with industry and the Government to ensure decommissioning practice is led by science and done safely,” said Dr. Hicks.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-impacts-of-offshore-platforms-nbsp">Long-term impacts of offshore platforms&nbsp;</h2>



The study underscores the critical need for informed decommissioning practices to mitigate the potential long-term environmental impacts of these offshore platforms.&nbsp;



“Our collaborative study between the NHM, University of Essex, and CEFAS, which spans 30 years of field data, demonstrates that oil and gas operations simplify complex ocean ecosystems, favoring small, hardy species and causing the disappearance of more delicate marine life,” said Gareth Thomas, a scientist at the Natural History Museum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study-nbsp">Broader implications of the study&nbsp;</h2>



As the world continues to explore and extract <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a>, this study provides essential insights into the environmental costs of such activities.&nbsp;



The researchers call for further investigation and more sustainable practices to protect marine ecosystems, especially as the decommissioning of many North Sea platforms looms on the horizon.&nbsp;



The study's findings serve as a reminder of the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to ocean conservation, balancing resource extraction with the preservation of marine biodiversity.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

10,000% pollution increase from offshore oil and gas platforms decimates ocean life

A recent study has shown that North Sea oil and...

Data collection is set to transform dramatically with the "Ocean of Things," a future network where trillions of interconnected devices will transmit vast amounts of data globally. This advanced system promises to revolutionize how we&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/autonomous-vehicles-will-help-monitor-ocean-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monitor our world</a>.



We are entering a new era. Everything, from the largest structures to the smallest gadgets, will become a source of data. These data sources will provide real-time insights across various domains.



However, with 71% of Earth's surface covered by water, gathering accurate and comprehensive information from these vast and often inaccessible oceans presents unique challenges that must be overcome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovations-in-ocean-data-collection">Innovations in ocean data collection</h2>



Responding to these challenges, the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (<a href="https://www.darpa.mil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DARPA</a>) developed an ambitious program called the "Ocean of Things." 



The initiative aims to create a vast network of data-collecting devices across the world's oceans to better understand and monitor these critical environments.



Enter the research teams from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/watson/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University's Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science</a>, who have taken on this challenge with enthusiasm and expertise.



Over the last decade, they have been hard at work, pushing the boundaries of technology and creating groundbreaking innovations under the banner of the Center for Research in Advanced Sensing Technologies and Environmental Sustainability (CREATES).



A significant part of their pioneering research has been funded by the Office of Naval Research, with a focus on developing bacteria-powered biobatteries capable of operating in the ocean for up to 100 years, providing a sustainable and long-lasting energy source for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microrobots-tested-as-clean-up-crew-for-polluted-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biohybrid-jellyfish-robotics-ocean-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quatic robots</a>&nbsp;and sensors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introducing-the-bug-for-ocean-data">Introducing the "bug" for ocean data</h2>



Leading the way are Professor Seokheun “Sean” Choi, PhD student Yang “Lexi” Gao, and Anwar Elhadad, PhD, who have developed a self-powered aquatic "bug." 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microrobots-tested-as-clean-up-crew-for-polluted-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microscopic robot</a> is a marvel of mechanical engineering, capable of skimming across the water and gathering critical environmental data. This robot’s technology builds upon the bacteria-powered biobatteries. 



Using a Janus interface that allows nutrients into the device and powers bacterial spore production, these skimmers can function in adverse conditions where solar, kinetic, or thermal energy systems might fail.&nbsp;



“When the environment is favorable for the bacteria, they become vegetative cells and generate power, but when the conditions are not favorable, they go back to spores. In that way, we can extend the operational life,” explained Professor Choi.



This innovation has allowed the Binghamton team to develop robots that generate close to 1 milliwatt of power, sufficient to operate mechanical movements and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bear-conservation-leaps-forward-with-new-tracking-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data-tracking</a>&nbsp;sensors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-upgrade-in-oceanic-surveillance">An upgrade in oceanic surveillance</h2>



The capacity to dispatch these robots wherever they're needed offers a significant improvement over the current "smart floats," which are stationary sensors anchored in one spot. 



The bugs can track a wide variety of environmental data, such as water temperature, pollution levels, commercial vessel and aircraft movements, and even the behaviors of aquatic animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimizing-ocean-data-collection">Optimizing ocean data collection</h2>



The next phase for these aquatic robots involves ascertaining which bacteria are most efficient for energy production in the harsh ocean conditions.&nbsp;



“We used very common bacterial cells, but we need to study further to know what is actually living in those areas of the ocean. Maybe using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-can-more-accurately-predict-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">machine learning</a>, we can find the optimal combination of bacterial species to improve power density and sustainability,” said Professor Choi.



This research holds the potential to revolutionize not just the field of aquatic robotics, but our interactions with the "Ocean of Things" as well.



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



Self-powered aquatic robots like the "bug" mark important progress in monitoring and protecting the environment.



As these efficient data-gathering devices autonomously traverse vast and often inaccessible marine areas, they can provide real-time insights into the health of our oceans.&nbsp;



This capability is crucial for tracking the impact of climate change and assessing the efficacy of conservation efforts. Additionally, it enhances our understanding of marine ecosystem dynamics.



Such detailed data collection may inform policies aimed at preserving biodiversity while improving our ability to swiftly respond to environmental crises. 



Integrating machine learning to optimize bacterial efficiency demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to sustainable energy. It shows how cutting-edge technology can be used for ecological benefit, paving the way for a future where technology and environmental stewardship can co-exist in harmony.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.202400426" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Materials Technologies</a>.



-----



Like what you read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and Earth.com.



-----

'Ocean of Things' robotic technology will transform ocean data collection

Data collection is set to transform dramatically with the "Ocean...

<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.



—–



Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

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.



—–



Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

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.



—–



Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

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>.



—–



Like what you saw and read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----



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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

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>



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

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.

<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://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

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.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter 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://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

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



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="fxH3eJHEkQ-2010196-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="Ccjk8KEMzv-2550719-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

News coming your way