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>.



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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...

Recent research highlights the accelerating melt of the Antarctic ice sheet, particularly in West Antarctica, driven by global warming.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glaciation-of-antarctica-nbsp">Glaciation of Antarctica&nbsp;</h2>



An international team led by the <a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alfred Wegener Institute </a>has discovered that the permanent glaciation of Antarctica began around 34 million years ago, initially confined to East Antarctica. 



Sediment samples and climate modeling indicate that West Antarctica remained ice-free until at least seven million years later.&nbsp;



These findings suggest that East and West Antarctica responded differently to external climatic changes, with East Antarctica glaciating first due to conducive climatic conditions and topography, while West Antarctica only later experienced ice sheet advances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transition-to-an-icehouse-world-nbsp">Transition to an icehouse world&nbsp;</h2>



The transition from a greenhouse world to an icehouse world around 34 million years ago marks one of Earth's most significant climate shifts, leading to the formation of the Antarctic ice sheet.&nbsp;



However, data gaps, especially from West Antarctica, have left uncertainties about the exact timeline and mechanisms of this glaciation.&nbsp;



The experts filled these gaps by analyzing a drill core retrieved offshore from the Pine Island and Thwaites glaciers. The findings show that East Antarctica saw the first large-scale glaciation while West Antarctica remained ice-free, characterized by dense forests and a temperate climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-west-antarctica-s-ice-sheet-lagged-behind">West Antarctica's ice sheet lagged behind</h2>



Combining new sediment data with climate models, the researchers demonstrated that the conditions necessary for permanent ice formation were present only in East Antarctica's coastal regions, particularly Northern Victoria Land.&nbsp;



Here, moist air masses and the rise of the Transantarctic Mountains facilitated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow</a> accumulation and ice cap formation, which then spread inland. 



In contrast, West Antarctica's ice sheet formation lagged by millions of years, requiring significantly colder conditions to develop due to its below-sea-level topography in many areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-differing-responses-to-climate-change-nbsp">Differing responses to climate change&nbsp;</h2>



These findings underscore the differing responses of East and West Antarctica to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-new-tipping-point-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climatic changes</a>. Even slight warming can trigger significant ice melt in West Antarctica, a concern given current global temperature trends. 



The research provides crucial insights into the historical climate transition from greenhouse to icehouse conditions and improves climate models that predict the interactions between ice, ocean, and atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closing-critical-knowledge-gaps-nbsp">Closing critical knowledge gaps&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers utilized advanced technology, including the MARUM-MeBo70 drill rig, during the 2017 expedition PS104 on the research vessel Polarstern, to extract sediment cores from previously inaccessible hard seabed off West Antarctica.&nbsp;



These technological advancements enabled them to uncover new data, closing critical knowledge gaps about Antarctica's glaciation history and enhancing our understanding of future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-in-distress-the-escalating-consequences-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate dynamics</a>.



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



Dr. Johann Klages of the Alfred Wegener Institute, who led the research team, emphasized the significance of these findings for contemporary climate studies.&nbsp;



“Even a slight warming is enough to cause the ice in West Antarctica to melt again - and that's exactly where we are right now,” Klages said. This knowledge is vital as the world faces potential fundamental climate changes akin to those experienced millions of years ago.



The integration of geological data with sophisticated climate models offers a more detailed and accurate picture of how Antarctica's ice sheets have evolved and how they might respond to future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worst-case-climate-scenarios-are-no-longer-plausible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate scenarios</a>. 



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adj3931" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>, not only illuminates past climate dynamics but also informs strategies to mitigate and adapt to ongoing and future climate impacts.



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Antarctic ice sheet: Past, present, and future

Recent research highlights the accelerating melt of the Antarctic ice...

Arctic glaciers are retreating at alarming rates due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-on-arctic-ice-may-help-fight-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, revealing vast new landscapes. These barren territories soon become active ecosystems, bursting with unseen life and playing a crucial role in our planet's carbon storage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-architects-of-the-arctic">Unseen architects of the Arctic</h2>



Our story takes us far north, to the island archipelago of Svalbard, significantly above the Arctic Circle. This frosty location is experiencing climate change seven times faster than the global average, leading to rapid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacial melting</a>.



The newly exposed, nutrient-poor landscapes seem inhospitable and lifeless at first. However, they quickly become colonized by microscopic organisms like bacteria and fungi, which are instrumental in turning these bare rock terrains into fertile soil that is capable of storing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric carbon</a>.



A team of scientists from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, including Dr. Thomas Bell and Dr. Emily Roberts, sheds light on this natural process. The researchers collaborated with scholars from Germany, the United States, and Switzerland.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retreating-arctic-glaciers">Retreating Arctic glaciers</h2>



The experts set out to investigate the Arctic soil formation process in areas previously covered by ice.



Specifically, the team observed the area of Midtre Lovénbreen, a shrinking valley glacier on Spitsbergen Island, to understand how microbes contribute to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-carbon-sinks-may-be-appearing-in-the-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil formation</a>&nbsp;once the glacier melts.



“A decade ago, I was walking on top of the ice and drilling ice cores into the glacier. When we returned in 2021, the glacier had shrunk, and instead of ice, there were barren, seemingly lifeless soils," said Dr. Bell.



However, lab analysis revealed an incredibly diverse array of microbes - the smallest and simplest forms of life on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungal-communities-as-ecosystem-engineers">Fungal communities as ecosystem engineers</h2>



The team's main focus was on fungi, specifically yeast, a group of microorganisms known to store carbon effectively. More fungi mean more carbon in the soil, while more bacteria generally lead to the soil emitting more CO2.



These findings are especially important because, in high Arctic ecosystems, the variety of fungi is particularly high compared to that of plants. This suggests that fungal communities could play a critical role there as ecosystem engineers, leading to more effective carbon storage.



According to the study, yeast fungi play a decisive role in stabilizing assimilated carbon in soil. They are the first to colonize the harsh Arctic landscapes, providing a foothold for soil to develop by building up a base of organic carbon - a resource that later life forms can utilize. As the soil ages, bacteria populations rise leading to an increase in CO2 emissions from respiration.



The team’s seminal conclusion is that "fungi will play a critical role in future carbon storage in Arctic soils as glaciers shrink further and more of Earth's surface area is covered by soil."



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



To many, the retreating Arctic glaciers represent a dire picture of our planet's future under the pressures of climate change.&nbsp;



Yet, hidden within these same Arctic landscapes, tiny&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-soil-microbes-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a>&nbsp;are hard at work, making the soil fertile and storing carbon.



Such resilience and adaptation in the face of drastic environmental change give us clues about how our ecosystems might respond and adapt to the challenges of a warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pioneers-of-soil-creation">Pioneers of soil creation</h2>



The journey into the Arctic's newly exposed terrains revealed unsung heroes: the pioneering microbes. These tiny organisms adapt quickly to the harsh, cold environments, playing pivotal roles in the initial stages of soil formation.



When the ice retreats, bacteria and fungi appear almost instantaneously, laying the groundwork for ecosystems to thrive.



Bacteria start the process by breaking down minerals, while fungi like yeast contribute organic matter, creating a more hospitable environment for other life forms. 



The resilience and rapid colonization of these microorganisms highlight nature's incredible ability to adapt and renew itself, even in extreme conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-the-shrinking-arctic-glaciers">Lessons from the shrinking Arctic glaciers </h2>



While the phenomenon of glacier melting often conjures images of loss and irreversible change, the resilient microbial communities of the Arctic tell a more hopeful story. 



These microbes demonstrate that even in the face of drastic environmental shifts, life finds a way to persevere and adapt. The ability of these microorganisms to create fertile soil from barren rock suggests possibilities for mitigating some impacts of climate change. 



This research not only deepens our understanding of microbial ecology but also inspires optimism about nature's potential to heal. 



By recognizing and harnessing these natural processes, we can better prepare for and perhaps alleviate some of the challenges posed by a warming planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2402689121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Retreating glaciers unleash a world of ecological potential

Arctic glaciers are retreating at alarming rates due to global warming,...

Microscopic organisms might be our new secret weapon in the war against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic pollution</a>.



Recent studies have revealed that certain bacteria can disintegrate plastic into small particles, which can then find their way back into the recycling process. 



This promising discovery offers fresh hope in combating plastic waste, which is one of the most pronounced environmental crises of the 21st century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiny-titans-of-plastic-consumption">Tiny titans of plastic consumption</h2>



The groundbreaking research originated from <a href="https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leiden University</a>, where scientists had compiled a vast repository of Streptomyces bacteria.



Initially intended as a resource for the discovery of novel antibiotics, PhD candidate Jo-Anne Verschoor found another compelling use for these microorganisms.



As she neared the completion of her doctorate program, Verschoor embarked on a unique exploration into how the microscopic organisms could tackle our macroscopic plastic problem.



She discovered that a substantial 20% of the bacterial strains could degrade specific forms of plastic. This groundbreaking finding reinforces the idea of turning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-found-that-can-digest-plastic-in-freezing-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a> into environmental allies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neutral-set-of-bacteria">Neutral set of bacteria</h2>



Importantly, this scientific breakthrough didn’t emerge out of nowhere. Verschoor's prior research had led her to suspect that these bacteria could potentially digest plastic. 



However, much like us, these bacteria don’t perform tasks in a vacuum - they require the right conditions. The bacteria analyzed in the study were not initially collected with plastic degradation in mind.



This neutral set of bacteria offered an opportunity to observe the effects of various substances and conditions on their ability to break down <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-can-break-down-pet-pollution-in-ocean-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PET plastic</a>, which is commonly found in food packaging and drink bottles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hungry-bacteria-have-motivation">Hungry bacteria have motivation </h2>



A plastic bottle doesn't just disappear when left in the soil. Much like humans, bacteria require motivation to exert effort. This means that the external conditions are crucial for bacteria to initiate the breakdown process.



"Bacteria are just like people," said Verschoor. An example of this is our natural reaction to run from danger. Similarly, the bacteria in this study showed a heightened level of activity when "hungry."



This behavior was observed in lab settings as the researchers introduced plastic models to bacteria-filled plates. The results were pretty clear - starving bacteria would indeed devour plastic pieces presented to them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-puzzle-solved">Plastic puzzle solved</h2>



In a pivotal step in her research, Verschoor made two major discoveries. First, she found that 18% of the bacterial strains could degrade plastics if the conditions were right.



Interestingly, the presence of a gene called Lipase A boosted this process significantly. Organisms with abundant Lipase A were seen breaking down plastic more quickly.



In light of these findings, the horizon of bacteria-based plastic recycling looks pretty promising. 



The extensive gamut of bacteria that can ingest plastic is now expanded exponentially, paving the way for innovative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-find-cheaper-method-of-recycling-plastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic recycling</a> methods.



An exemplar of this promising future is the French enterprise Carbios, embarking on a pioneering voyage to test large-scale recycling of plastics using bacteria and their enzymes. 



As this method is further developed, we can envision a future where plastic pollution is not an insurmountable challenge, but a problem with a tangible and biological solution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-the-lab-to-the-real-world">From the lab to the real-world </h2>



While these lab-based discoveries are groundbreaking, translating them into real-world applications presents its own set of challenges. 



The transition from controlled environments to dynamic and variable conditions in nature requires meticulous planning and testing. Scaling up bacterial plastic degradation involves scientific innovation as well as logistical and economic considerations.



To bridge this gap, interdisciplinary collaborations are key. Engineers, environmental scientists, and policymakers need to work hand-in-hand to create effective systems for deploying these bacteria on a large scale. 



Potential applications include introducing these bacteria into waste management facilities, creating bio-reactors designed for plastic breakdown, and developing consumer products that incorporate bacterial enzymes.



Moreover, public awareness and education are crucial. For these innovations to be effective, societies must be informed about the benefits and limitations of bacteria-based plastic degradation. 



While the journey from lab to landfills is fraught with complexities, the potential for bacteria to revolutionize plastic recycling is immense. 



With continued research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and public support, we might soon witness a significant leap towards a cleaner, more sustainable planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-06414-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a>.



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'Hungry' bacteria will devour plastic waste

Microscopic organisms might be our new secret weapon in the...

Tropical,Jungle,With,Small,Waterfall

Tropical forests – our verdant guardiansl against climate change, our shelters of unmatched biodiversity – are paying a higher price for human activity than we previously understood.



Eberhard Fritz from Max Planck Society and his team of global scientists have connected the dots between human activity and the ongoing degradation of these vital spaces, and their findings suggest we must rethink our understanding of the situation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-footprint-on-tropical-forests">Human footprint on tropical forests</h2>



Fritz and his team embarked on a challenging quest, leveraging multiple remote sensing data streams and cutting-edge data analysis tools to survey the landscape of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-day-of-forests-2024-new-solutions-for-a-better-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical moist forests</a> and assess the long-term impacts of our activities.



The result is a perspective rarely seen before – the unfiltered reality of human-driven forest degradation, its long-lasting effects, and the urgency of the situation.



Their study reveals surprisingly high levels of degradation and fragmentation directly caused by human activities. 



But the team didn't stop at the boundaries of the forest; they dug deeper, exploring the intricacies of forest ecosystem dynamics and the consequences of our actions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ramifications-of-degradation">Ramifications of degradation</h2>



Fritz and his team used Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (<a href="https://gedi.umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GEDI</a>) technology from the International Space Station (ISS) to observe forest cover changes from 1990–2022. Their findings were illuminating.



They found that human activities like road and agricultural expansion or selective logging often reduce the height and biomass of the forest canopy by 20–30%. 



These "edge effects" can also extend deep into the forest, leading to smaller canopy heights and reduced biomass even 1,500 meters inside what seems to be intact forest.



The impact is not only limited to the physical structure of the forest but also affects the biodiversity within these areas. 



Species that depend on tall canopies and dense biomass for survival may find their habitats increasingly fragmented and inhospitable, creating further ecological imbalances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activities-and-forest-climate">Human activities and forest climate</h2>



Furthermore, the disruption caused by these activities can significantly alter microclimates, leading to potential changes in temperature and humidity levels within the forest. 



These shifts may have cascading effects on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-tree-species-are-moving-to-colder-and-wetter-regions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diverse flora and fauna</a> that thrive there.



Understanding these impacts is crucial, as it highlights the intricate balance of ecosystems and the profound influence human activities can have on our natural world. 



Unsurprisingly, these activities result in significant carbon emissions and biodiversity loss. Yet, our policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gases often overlook forest degradation, focusing instead on the more obvious signs of deforestation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-domino-effect-of-humans-on-tropical-forests">Domino effect of humans on tropical forests</h2>



"Cumulative human disturbances, e.g. due to unsustainable logging, fire, and edge effects are particularly important," says Gregory Duveiller, co-author and project group leader at the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> for Biogeochemistry in Jena, Germany.



Such disturbances increase the likelihood of complete deforestation once 50% of the canopy height is lost. This significant reduction in canopy height disrupts the ecosystem, leading to a cascade of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/single-degree-temperature-warming-boreal-forests-wreak-havoc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">negative effects</a> on biodiversity and soil health.



Moreover, degraded forests are more vulnerable to additional disturbances. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate</a> extremes, including severe droughts and intense storms, threaten their potential resilience and long-term future. 



The compounded effects of these disturbances can lead to a vicious cycle of degradation. This makes recovery increasingly difficult.



"Taken together, the study shows that the degradation impacts on canopy structure are greater than previously reported," adds Duveiller.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-call-for-forest-protection">Urgent call for forest protection</h2>



In response to these alarming findings, Fritz and his team have called for a surge in efforts to prevent further degradation and protect our already degraded forests.



Their study serves as a clarifying lens, highlighting the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to meet the conservation pledges made at the recent <a href="https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/climate-solutions/biodiversity-and-nature-based-solutions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Climate Change and Biodiversity</a> conferences.



Can we rise to this challenge? Can we redefine our relationship with tropical forests and implement measures that will ensure their survival? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain - the clock is ticking. 



So let's roll up our sleeves, put our heads together, and work to protect these crucial ecosystems for the sake of our planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07629-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Human destruction of tropical forests is much worse than believed

Tropical forests – our verdant guardiansl against climate change, our...

Ever noticed how birds fly south for the winter, or how your favorite sushi fish is harder to find during certain months? Shifting habitats and migration patterns of species is a common natural occurrence, but what if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-day-2024-the-tide-may-finally-be-turning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">these changes</a> are becoming more drastic and more unpredictable because of climate change? That's what a team of researchers at <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a> is investigating.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-species-and-their-habitats">Climate, species, and their habitats</h2>



Leading the charge in this compelling research is Jake Lawlor, a Ph.D. student at McGill University. His recent study delves deep into the effects of climate change on species’ movements. Lawlor's focus is on the range shifts of species - how far and which direction they move in response to a changing environment.



Broadly speaking, there's a general anticipation that with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-deja-vu-oceans-may-slow-down-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming climate</a>, species might pack their bags and move towards cooler environments.&nbsp;



However, the results from Lawlor’s study, which tracked the movements of around 26,000 species through a global database called BioShifts, offers a fascinating perspective that challenges this assumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-not-just-about-temperature">Climate change: Not just about temperature</h2>



The McGill study revealed that 59% of species did indeed move towards cooler environments, consistent with the basic assumption about global warming. 



But that's not the entire story. What about the remaining 41%? These species exhibited movements that either didn't occur at all or were in directions inconsistent with expectations based on warming temperatures.



So, this begs the question – is temperature the only major player in the game of climate change? If not, what else could be influencing species to change their habitats? 



Lawlor and his team stepped up to this investigative challenge, trying to decipher the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underlying causes</a> behind these unexpected movements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-of-species-habitats">Shifting of species' habitats</h2>



The team dug deeper into species-specific and climate-specific factors to better understand this puzzle. Could the specific life cycle of a species affect its reaction to warming? Would the features of the landscape influence the routes they take? Such questions form the basis of Lawlor's research.



"Understanding these temperature-inconsistent shifts will be especially important in helping researchers create models that predict when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a> is likely to lead to range shifts, as well as when it won't," noted Lawlor.



"For example, the type of life cycle of a particular species, or their sensitivity to warming, or the features of the landscape might help us to predict how likely the species in those habitats are to shift, and even the routes they might take."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cautionary-tale">A cautionary tale</h2>



While the study provides valuable insights into the shifting habitats of various species due to climate change, the researchers caution that significant data gaps remain. 



Most existing data on range shifts are concentrated in Europe and North America, leaving large portions of the globe underrepresented. Additionally, the data greatly overlook marine species, which are just as affected by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental changes</a>. 



The researchers also point out that data collection has been uneven across different plant and animal groups, making it challenging to draw comprehensive conclusions.



This uneven distribution and lack of marine data highlight the need for more extensive, globally inclusive research to better understand the full impact of climate change on biodiversity.



"In other words, trends like averaged rates and directions of range shifts that we calculate based on observations of birds and insects might not tell us what to expect for shifts of kelp, or crops, or fish. Nor, as the climate changes, would they be sufficient to inform many conservation-management plans," noted study senior author Jennifer Sunday.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-eyes-on-the-field">More eyes on the field</h2>



With the acknowledgment of these data disparities, the McGill team stresses the need for enhanced monitoring of species shifts. This can help improve our understanding of the factors at play, leading to better strategies to preserve biodiversity in the face of climate change.



Lawlor's study is a stark reminder that climate change isn't a one-size-fits-all phenomenon. It affects different regions and communities in distinct ways, presenting unique challenges that require tailored solutions. Addressing these issues demands our collective attention and action to ensure a sustainable future for all.



So, the next time you spot a new bird species in your backyard or notice a different kind of fish in your local market, remember – climate change doesn’t just affect humans; it's reshaping the entire natural world.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43017-024-00527-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Reviews Earth and Environment</a>.



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Most species are shifting their habitats due to climate change

Ever noticed how birds fly south for the winter, or...

Plastic pollution is a burgeoning global crisis that leaves no corner of our planet untouched. From the deepest corners of our oceans to the otherwise pristine Norwegian coastlines, traces of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coca-cola-pepsi-among-top-contributors-to-plastic-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic waste</a> are an unfortunate sight.



This waste not only marks the invasion of an unnerving pollutant but reflects a far-reaching systemic problem that demands global attention.



For many years, scientists worldwide have been sounding the alarm on the consequences of unrestrained plastic pollution, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention. Despite this, we've continued to witness a surge in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-plastics-treaty-tackles-the-pollution-problem-directly-at-the-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global plastic</a> production and consumption.



Norway, known for its rigorous environmental advocacy, has been pushing for a global agreement to halt the relentless flow of plastics into the environment.



However, it's essential to note that even Norway has a role to play in generating plastic pollution. 



Based on a high-resolution study conducted by researchers from the <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)</a> along with the <a href="https://nilu.no/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian Air Research Institute (NILU)</a>, we now have a comprehensive mapping of the intricate plastic cycle within Norway, right down to individual product and polymer types.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-norway-s-plastic-footprint">Unraveling Norway's plastic footprint</h2>



Despite its green reputation, Norway discharges approximately 15,000 tons of plastic into the environment annually. 



The new study reveals that a staggering 758 kilotons (kt) of plastics find their way into the Norwegian market every year, with 632 kt ending up as waste.



While nearly half of this waste is incinerated, a seemingly minor 2.4% ends up in the environment. Yet, this "minor" percentage equates to a significant 15 kt, which translates to an average of 2.8 kg per capita.



To put this into perspective, Norwegians consume 21% more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-win-the-battle-of-planet-vs-plastic-drastic-changes-are-needed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastics</a> compared to Europeans and generate twice the amount of plastic pollution as their Swiss counterparts.



This level of plastic consumption corresponds to a concerning 1.5 billion plastic bottles reaching the environment annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consumer-packaging-and-tire-wear-rubber">Consumer packaging and tire wear rubber</h2>



The researchers identified consumer packaging, including bottles and bags, as the most significant source of macroplastics. Moreover, tire wear, particularly from electric and hybrid vehicles, emerged as a leading contributor to microplastic pollution.



Despite efforts to limit the release of these products, high consumption rates prevail. We simply use more than we can collect. As such, it's essential to reduce plastic consumption to curb the pollution at its source.



Tire wear, on the other hand, poses a unique challenge due to the nature of these emissions.



Approximately 6 kt of tire wear rubber is released annually, calling for a rethinking of our mobility and transport choices. Public transport and designing lighter vehicles suggest possible solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-devastating-impact-of-marine-plastic-pollution">Devastating impact of marine plastic pollution</h2>



Given the high population concentration along fjords and long coastlines, land-based plastics in Norway easily find their way into the ocean.



While most of the plastic waste released to the environment ends up in the soil, nearly one-third infiltrates the marine environment, causing irreversible impacts on ecosystems.



Marine animals, for instance, often ingest or become entangled in plastic fragments. Moreover, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-floor-harbors-up-to-11-million-tons-of-plastic-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic debris</a> interferes with the marine carbon cycle, further exacerbating climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toxicity-of-plastic-pollution">Toxicity of plastic pollution</h2>



Adding to the growing list of concerns, plastic products often contain a myriad of toxic additives introduced during production, such as phthalate esters and organophosphate esters. 



Through field studies, high amounts of these toxic additives have been found in the livers of Norwegian herring gulls after ingesting plastics. Furthermore, these high additive amounts make their way into recycling processes.



This means recycled plastics can contain elevated levels of additives, posing an additional risk to human health and the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward-urgent-action-needed">The path forward: Urgent action needed</h2>



The research underscores the urgent need to curb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-production-increases-create-identical-plastic-pollution-increase/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic production</a>, consumption, and the use of hazardous chemical additives.



Achieving this will require the implementation of stringent policies to mitigate the catastrophic environmental consequences of the plastic economy.



"We emphasize that upstream measures, such as consumption reduction and changes in product design, would result in the most positive impact for limiting plastic pollution," wrote the study authors. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.3c09176" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology</a>.



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Norway's battle against plastic pollution represents a global plague

Plastic pollution is a burgeoning global crisis that leaves no...

Humans always hunted and fished. In some societies, this was, and still is, necessary for survival. But in industrialized nations, hunting and fishing have taken on a new mantle -- a recreational sport. 



A recent study delves into the ethical and practical implications of this increasingly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hunting-can-help-stabilize-wildlife-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">popular practice</a>, exploring its benefits and potential impacts on different aspects of our daily lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-the-team">Meet the team</h2>



<a href="https://www.igb-berlin.de/en/profile/robert-arlinghaus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Robert Arlinghaus</a> from the IGB, along with a team of philosophers, social scientists, and environmentalists, explores this phenomenon from a fresh lens. 



They look at the emotional intensity that recreational hunting and fishing can provoke in individuals. Through their study, they bring our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-fishing-got-a-boost-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attention to its potential impact</a> on environmental stewardship.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-stewardship">Environmental stewardship</h2>



The team proposes that the deep emotional connection forged between hunters, anglers, and the wild can lead to a strong sense of responsibility. 



They argue that these feelings often translate into lifelong commitment towards environmental and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-summer-fishing-shrinks-atlantic-salmon-size-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species protection</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-sides-of-the-spectrum">Two sides of the spectrum</h3>



However, not all outdoor experiences are catalysts for this kind of stewardship. The researchers clearly differentiate between intensive nature interaction, which can foster environmental responsibility, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decline-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superficially conducted hunting</a> and fishing practices, which may not have the same effect.



Charles List, professor emeritus of philosophy at <a href="https://www.plattsburgh.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SUNY Plattsburgh University</a>, New York, and co-author of the study, explains the idea well.



"Hunting and fishing generally require an intensive engagement with natural processes, ecosystems, the living creature and the annual and daily cycles," List explains.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-nature-connections-made-by-hunting-and-fishing">Deep nature connections made by hunting and fishing</h3>



This deep connection to nature can foster a strong sense of responsibility to protect wildlife and fish, known as stewardship.



Through activities like searching, finding, catching, killing, and processing wild animals, hunters and anglers become part of the natural food web.



This deep connection with nature can foster a strong sense of responsibility to protect wildlife and fish, known as stewardship.



"Hunting and fishing generally require an intensive engagement with natural processes, ecosystems, the living creature, and the annual and daily cycles," said Prof. Arlinghaus, a sustainability researcher and fisheries professor at the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-fishing-and-the-empathy-gap">Hunting, fishing, and the empathy gap</h2>



Just as there are two sides to every coin, the researchers also shed light on practices that might not foster a sense of responsibility.



Unfortunately, some hunting and fishing experiences are dominated by a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hunting-reduces-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desire for quick rewards</a> rather than fostering a connection with nature.



According to Dr. Sam Shephard of <a href="https://www.avemaria.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ave Maria University</a> in Florida, these superficial experiences do not allow for an intensive examination of one's relationship with nature and the impact on the lives of animals.



"There are examples of hunting and fishing experiences being dominated by market logic," explained Dr. Shephard. He pointed to small put-and-take fishing ponds and canned hunting as examples.



These practices offer only superficial experiences of nature. They cater to the desire for a quick reward. Often, there is no deep examination of personal relationships with nature or the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact on the lives of animals</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psycho-emotional-triggers">Psycho-emotional triggers</h2>



The team also explores the skills and knowledge that hunting and fishing can impart. However, they emphasize that the critical factor is not just the practice but the psycho-emotional triggers that the activities stir in the individuals.



Catch-and-release fishing, for instance, can heighten the sense of responsibility towards the life of the fish. However, if executed for purely economic reasons, it does nothing to foster a sense of stewardship.



"Stewardship arises when people become aware of the consequences of their own actions and draw personally binding conclusions that lead to the sustainable management of animal populations, including to self-constraint about how many animals to take and how," explained associate professor Erica von Essen of <a href="https://www.stockholmresilience.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stockholm Resilience Center</a>.



She suggests that true stewardship arises when individuals comprehend the consequences of their actions and take binding decisions for the sustainable management of animal populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-societal-pressures-on-traditional-practices">Societal pressures on traditional practices</h2>



In their study, the researchers also delve into the impact of societal pressures on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-women-were-not-just-gatherers-they-were-hunters-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traditional practices</a>. 



With societal taboos around killing wild animals in recreation, hunters and anglers often distance themselves from the emotional dimensions of their activities. Unfortunately, this shift undermines <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-fishing-gets-a-boost-from-genomics-roadmap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental stewardship</a>. 



Professor Arlinghaus explains, "An important basis for this is to remove the social taboo on killing wild animals in the context of recreational fishing and hunting."



He believes such practices can build intense emotional connections and awareness of the consequences of one's actions, which may lead to pro-environmental behavior and support for conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stewardship-s-role-in-hunting-and-fishing">Stewardship's role in hunting and fishing</h2>



The study led by Professor Robert Arlinghaus examines recreational hunting and fishing. It highlights how these activities can promote environmental stewardship.



The intense engagement hunters and anglers have with nature is crucial. This interaction often leads to a deep emotional connection and a commitment to protect wildlife and the environment.



However, not all hunting and fishing experiences foster this connection. Some are superficial and driven by quick rewards. These do not result in a strong sense of responsibility towards nature.



The researchers argue for the importance of psycho-emotional engagement. They propose that true stewardship comes from understanding the impact of one's actions and making sustainable choices.



While the act of hunting and fishing can be controversial, it is important to comprehend the potential for fostering a sense of environmental responsibility.



As society continues to grapple with issues of conservation and environmental protection, the findings of this study offer a unique perspective that invites us all to explore our relationship with nature more deeply.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-024-01379-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Sustainability</a>.



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Does hunting and fishing connect humans with nature or reinforce superiority complex

Humans always hunted and fished. In some societies, this was,...

Have you ever thought about how life could sustain in a desert, where the average annual rainfall is as little as 17 millimeters? Researchers from the Senckenberg Center for Human Evolution and Paleoenvironment (<a href="https://www.senckenberg.de/en/institutes/shep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SHEP</a>) at the <a href="https://uni-tuebingen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tübingen</a> and the <a href="https://museumgoerlitz.senckenberg.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Senckenberg Natural History Museum</a> in Görlitz might have cracked the code of how a desert grass survives.



The research team has discovered an astonishing adaptation of the desert grass Stipagrostis sabulicola in Africa's Namib Desert. This adaptation enables life in such a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-seeds-go-dormant-to-avoid-harsh-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">harsh environment</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desert-grass-in-namib-desert">Desert grass in Namib Desert</h2>



The Namib Desert, known for its hyper-arid conditions and vast sandy expanses, hosts a surprising number of plant and animal species that have adapted to its extreme surroundings. One such species is the Namib dune bushman grass, Stipagrostis sabulicola.



Dr. Huei Ying Gan from the University of Tübingen, along with co-authors Dr. Karin Hohberg and Dr. Clément Schneider, set out to investigate the function of this grass in fostering a rich desert ecosystem, even in the face of such extreme conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-mechanism-of-desert-grass">Survival mechanism of desert grass</h2>



Stipagrostis sabulicola extends a wide network of shallow roots, anchoring itself firmly into the desert dunes. But it's the plant's specialized leaf structures that enhance its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-change-their-roots-to-survive-harsh-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival</a>. These leaves excel in condensing moisture from the air in the form of fog and dew.



In the arid Namib Desert, where rain is a rare <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aral-sea-dust-emissions-have-doubled-with-major-climate-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">event</a>, the grass relies heavily on fog for its moisture. Atlantic fog, providing an average of 39 millimeters of moisture per year, becomes its lifeline. 



This fog forms as the warm Atlantic air cools down over the cold ocean surface and travels many kilometers into the desert's interior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crucial-role-of-fog-plants">Crucial role of fog plants</h2>



The research shows that this fog-harvesting grass, by capturing and channeling moisture into the sand, creates what the researchers have termed "fog plant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oases-grow-by-human-effort-but-face-threats-from-desertification/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oases</a>." 



"As soon as the fog touches the ground, the endemic desert grass captures the moisture from the fog and channels it into the sand," notes Hohberg.



These oases play a vital role in the desert's food chain. They serve as the primary carbon source, as was revealed by measuring natural variations in stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes (δ13C and δ15N) of invertebrates.



"Our results show that the bushman grass of the Namib Desert promotes carbon flow in the food web," said Schneider.



"We were able to demonstrate that the plant is the primary food source for above-ground invertebrates such as ants, spiders, pseudoscorpions, and mites - we found 12 species of arthropods on the leaf surface and in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-leaf-diversity-shape-plant-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">leaf</a> sheaths alone, along with an additional seven species that we did not study in detail."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-beyond-grass">Life beyond grass</h2>



In the words of Schneider, the grass promotes carbon flow in the food web, serving as the primary food source for above-ground invertebrates like ants, spiders, pseudoscorpions, and mites. 



"Overall, however, it can be said that the importance of Stipagrostis sabulicola goes far beyond the invertebrate food web," noted Gan.



"This is because numerous arthropods, such as weevils and black beetles, which are dependent on the grass as an energy source and therefore live in close relationship with the plants, serve as a vital food source for more mobile predators such as sand lizards, nursery web spiders, or the dune lark."



"In the higher food chain, the lizards, in turn, are an important food source for the adder species Bitis peringueyi. Our analyses underline the crucial role of fog plants in the hyper-arid Namib dunes."



At the end of the day, the desert ecology depends heavily on this unassuming desert grass, Stipagrostis sabulicola. In the harsh conditions of the Namib Desert, these "fog plants" are vital life-sustaining links, ensuring the survival of the diverse life forms in these hyper-arid dunes.



The mighty desert grass serves as a keystone species in the Namib Desert. It demonstrates nature's incredible adaptability, fostering a complex and thriving ecosystem in an otherwise inhospitable environment.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-61796-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Desert grass survives by capturing moisture from fog

Have you ever thought about how life could sustain in...

Agroecology is a science, practice, and movement that seeks social, political, economic, and environmental sustainability 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">global food system</a>. 



According to a new study led by <a href="https://home.dartmouth.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dartmouth College</a>, although this field is currently gaining momentum in the United States, it requires close collaboration between scientists, farmers, and activists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-and-social-sustainability-of-food-systems">Ecological and social sustainability of food systems</h2>



Study lead author Theresa Ong is an assistant professor of environmental studies at Dartmouth. She noted that U.S. residents tend to be more familiar with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-farming-high-yield/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organic farming</a>, the production of food without synthetic inputs, and regenerative agriculture, which aims to restore soil health.



However, according to Ong, unlike these practices, agroecology is different, as it strives to achieve both ecological and social sustainability of food systems without sacrificing one for the other.&nbsp;



“We cannot save biodiversity and ecosystem integrity without also preserving farmer livelihoods and ensuring that the food systems we create provide food that is culturally relevant to local communities, and not simply meeting a calorie quota,” said Ong.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-facing-global-food-systems-nbsp">Challenges facing global food systems&nbsp;</h2>



Currently, the U.S. food system is monopolized by industrial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/losing-grasslands-fewer-fires-griculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a>, which relies on chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers, along with technology depending heavily on fossil fuels. 



Moreover, challenges facing global food systems, such as food insecurity, public health issues, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity loss</a>, and global warming, are partly perpetuated by the US food systems and its key political players.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promoting-agroecology-as-a-sustainable-practice">Promoting agroecology as a sustainable practice</h2>



For decades already, scientists and activists from the US and beyond have called for a major transformation of the current industrial food system, leading the United Nations to promote agroecology as a more sustainable practice. However, this field failed for a long time to gain recognition beyond certain academic circles.



Fortunately, in 2023, a major<a href="https://www.uvm.edu/instituteforagroecology/us-agroecology-summit-2023%C3%B9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> US Agroecology Summit</a> gathered nearly 100 stakeholders in the food industry calling for a re-evaluation of current practices. 



The experts advocated the need for equitable representation and support of agricultural practitioners and scientists and increased access to funding, as well as the development of ethical approaches to research in agroecology.



“'Food sovereignty' - the right to define, produce, and access healthy food that is culturally appropriate and preserves the ways of life of farmers, is a critical goal in agroecology and was first defined by La Vía Campesina, an international peasant movement, in 1996,” Ong said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-equitable-representation-and-coordination">Equitable representation and coordination</h2>



This summit builds on the momentum which has been growing over the past 15 years, and led to the establishment of the nonprofit <a href="https://usfoodsovereigntyalliance.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Food Sovereignty Alliance</a> in 2010, along with the enactment of food sovereignty laws in eight states (Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Georgia, North Carolina, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana).



Yet, more work needs to be done to make sure that all voices in this field - including large and small farmers, family farmers, migrant farmers, Black and Indigenous farmers, and farm workers - are properly represented and have decision-making power.



“Agroecology is about building coalitions to ensure equitable representation and coordination between farmers, activists, and academics,” Ong concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43016-024-01006-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Food</a>.



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Sustainable food systems are gaining momentum

Agroecology is a science, practice, and movement that seeks social,...

Strong,Wind,And,Rain

Extreme weather events are no longer a rarity. Hurricanes, storms, and other severe weather phenomena seem to be knocking on our doors, in every corner of the world, more frequently and with more fury.



Surprisingly for some, this wild weather escalation has further amplified public curiosity and led to the proliferation of live-streamed footage of these incidents.



Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Discord have become the digital front-row seats to witness <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/compound-weather-extremes-are-now-more-frequent-and-severe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mother Nature's fury</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-weather-watchers-motivation">Extreme weather watchers' motivation</h2>



In an unparalleled effort to understand the underlying motivation of these viewers, a remarkable study was conducted by the University of Plymouth.



This research focused on the viewers of live-streams related to three events -- <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hurricane-irma-weakens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hurricane Irma</a> in 2017, <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/eye-of-the-storm-what-made-hurricane-ian-so-powerful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hurricane Ian</a> in 2022, and Storms Dudley, Eunice, and Franklin in 2022.



The intriguing approach of the study was to examine viewers' comments, revealing that those situated in the disaster-hit areas utilized these digital platforms to communicate about the official risk advice they received -- often questioning whether evacuation was necessary.



In contrast, other viewers found themselves glued to the live-streams due to their past connections with the affected regions. 



These individuals, while experiencing emotional ties, appreciated the chance to express solidarity and send messages of hope for the areas caught in the weather vortex.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-commentary-on-modern-human-behavior">Commentary on modern human behavior</h2>



The research, published in the journal Environmental Hazards was conducted by Dr. Simon Dickinson, Lecturer in Geohazards and Risk at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools/school-of-geography-earth-and-environmental-sciences" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth</a>'s School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences. 



He and his team took an in-depth look at nine live-streams of the 2017 and 2022 hurricanes and storms.



These streams collectively featured 65 hours of video footage, garnering the attention of over 1.8 million viewers globally.



"When dramatic things happen – whether that relates to extreme weather or events like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-does-the-u-s-have-so-many-tornadoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tornados</a> or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-captures-eruption-of-icelands-svartsengi-volcano-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanoes erupting</a> – people flock to watch," Dickinson observes.



This phenomenon, often dismissed as a form of online 'rubber-necking', turns out to be driven by complex reasons.



The allure of live-streaming lies in its real-time interaction, enabling people near and far from the event to share experiences and validate their understanding about the severity of the event and how hazards work. 



The shared footage becomes a point of reference and an online gathering point, marking these digital spaces as communities of learning and emotional support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engagement-and-learning">Engagement and learning</h2>



During these live-streams, more than 14,300 comments were posted by 5,000 unique accounts, indicating higher-than-average audience engagement. 



This level of interaction also underscores the significance of such live footage in generating international dialogue about pressing events.



Moreover, many of these live-streams leveraged existing webcam channels, repurposed to show the progress of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes or storms</a>.



Casual beach or port conditions webcams, along with personal home security or doorbell cameras, transformed into crucial information sources during these events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-extreme-weather-live-streaming">Learning from extreme weather live-streaming</h2>



Apart from fostering community, these live-streams play an essential educative role. 



Dr. Dickinson highlighted the importance of informal discussions about natural hazards. He noted, "Although scientists are getting better at communicating risk, people are far more likely to discuss hazards in informal and relatively unmoderated settings." 



Dickinson explained that extreme weather events serve as catalysts for public engagement with environmental issues. 



Moments of extreme weather are important because they focus people's attention and generate discussion about hazards, how they work, and how they will increasingly affect us in future.



Dickinson concluded by describing them as "spaces of learning, community and emotional support in a world that can feel increasingly volatile."



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-tornado-outbreak-100-storms-touched-down-in-a-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meteorological events</a> captured in these streams prompt people to learn more about the science at play, thus generating an appreciation for hazard risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-reach-and-interaction">Enhancing reach and interaction</h2>



The rise of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iss-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced technology</a> and social media platforms has profoundly enhanced the reach and interaction of extreme weather live-streams.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-is-using-drones-to-measure-changes-in-ice-sheets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drones</a> equipped with high-definition cameras now provide unprecedented vantage points, capturing aerial footage of unfolding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-disasters-are-on-the-rise-but-hazard-plans-are-inadequate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disasters</a>.



Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) offer immersive experiences, allowing viewers to feel as if they are within the storm itself. 



Additionally, real-time chat features and geotagging enable a higher level of audience interaction, where viewers can ask questions, share local experiences, and obtain tailored advice from experts and fellow watchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technology-extreme-weather-and-the-future">Technology, extreme weather, and the future</h2>



In summary, this technological evolution increases weather and climate engagement, while amplifying the educational and communal aspects of these live-streams, making them indispensable tools for modern disaster response and awareness.



The study underscores the need to consider these spaces not merely as platforms for disaster voyeurism, but as crucial hubs for understanding hazardous events and their effects in a world that’s growing more unpredictable.



They serve as venues for learning, community-building and emotional support, making them an essential part of our evolving digital landscape.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17477891.2024.2324058" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Hazards</a>.



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Why tens of millions of people love watching videos of extreme weather events

Extreme weather events are no longer a rarity. Hurricanes, storms,...

Hooray for fireworks, right? The allure of the night sky lighting up in vivid colors is second to none, especially during prominent celebrations such as the 4th of July. Yet, this awe-inspiring spectacle comes with underlying risks we often ignore: the invisible threat lurking in the air that we breathe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fireworks-and-air-pollution">Fireworks and air pollution</h2>



In a recent study headed by Greg Carling, a geology professor at Brigham Young University (<a href="https://www.byu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BYU</a>), the hidden danger associated with fireworks was brought to light. 



The study cast a spotlight on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/135-million-people-died-prematurely-due-to-pm25-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">harmful particulate matter</a> that is unleashed into the air during firework displays.



"We know we're breathing in these particles that are unhealthy during firework events,&nbsp;dust storms, or winter inversions," said Carling. "But what's actually in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-composition-of-us-air-pollution-has-changed-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particulate matter</a>? No one really knew before this study."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-particulate-matter">Particulate matter</h2>



Let's take a moment to understand particulate matter. It consists of tiny fragments of dust, metals, smoke, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquid droplets</a>, and other pollutants. 



These particles, especially PM2.5, are incredibly small and can be inhaled deeply into our lungs.



Fireworks significantly contribute to these particles, releasing harmful substances like barium and copper during summer displays, and arsenic, cadmium, lead, and thallium in winter smog. 



"We know a bit about the acute problems that elements such as lead cause," said Carling. 



"But then there are the chronic problems we don't know about, and that probably should make people think, "Oh, so what's actually harmful and how do we figure out what's harmful?'"



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fireworks-annual-air-quality-hazard">Fireworks: Annual air quality hazard?</h2>



According to Carling's research, fireworks are one of the main contributors to particulate matter along the Wasatch Front, along with mineral dust and winter inversion. 



But what sets firework displays apart? It's their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/short-term-pollution-claims-more-than-one-million-lives-per-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">timing</a>. Major firework events fall in July – a time when the pollution levels peak due to these displays.



Carling's team took a two-year-long deep dive into figuring out the contents of these particles. They used air samplers equipped with filters to capture and analyze various sizes of particulate matter. The results were intriguing and, indeed, alarming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trace-metals-in-the-air-after-fireworks">Trace metals in the air after fireworks</h2>



Increased levels of metals like barium and copper were found during summer fireworks, while arsenic, cadmium, lead, and thallium were more prevalent in winter smog. 



These findings are concerning because prolonged exposure to these substances has been linked with serious health complications. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fireworks-can-have-long-lasting-impacts-on-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inhaling these particles</a> over time can lead to respiratory issues like asthma.



Moreover, the presence of heavy metals in the air we breathe has been associated with more severe health problems, including heart diseases. 



The persistent nature of these particles means they can migrate from the atmosphere into soil, water, and even our food, creating a continuous cycle of exposure. 



This underscores the importance of rethinking how we celebrate with fireworks. Not exactly the kind of festive souvenir you would want, right?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-current-air-quality-standards">Current air quality standards</h2>



Despite having stringent water standards, Utah, where this study was conducted, does not have similar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-air-pollution-levels-have-dropped-but-not-for-everyone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality standards</a> for these metals. 



Carling points out that both the acute and chronic impacts of these elements should be studied further for adequate protective measures.



These particles are not only harmful but are also persistent. Metals have a knack for migrating from the atmosphere into soil, water, and even our food.



Carling suggests that watching city firework shows instead of setting off personal displays can reduce pollution. By limiting individual fireworks, we can decrease the release of harmful particles into the air. 



Additionally, he advises doing indoor workouts during times of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-years-fireworks-send-millions-of-birds-on-erratic-flights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poor air quality</a>. This helps limit inhalation of toxins and protects our lungs from harmful pollutants. 



These simple changes can make a significant difference. By making more responsible choices, we can enjoy celebrations while also safeguarding our health and the environment. 



Let's consider these recommendations to ensure cleaner air and healthier lives for everyone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fireworks-air-quality-and-the-future">Fireworks, air quality, and the future</h2>



"It's great when research leads toward legislation that can help <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-and-bushes-near-highways-improve-air-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improve things</a>," stated Carling. "Sometimes it's just a paper that gets published and a few scientists read it. But other times, it gets picked up and used to create real solutions."



With the evidence laid bare, it's imperative to rethink our traditions in light of their impact on our health and environment – all that glitters is not gold, right? 



So the next time you marvel at a fireworks display, remember the invisible particles that tag along. It’s time to consider cleaner and safer alternatives. Who knows? The solution might already be waiting to happen.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0883292724000118?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Geochemistry</a>.



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-----

Fireworks have an alarming impact on air quality, but drone light shows don't

Hooray for fireworks, right? The allure of the night sky...

The carbon footprint of human activity has never been more evident, particularly when it comes to travel. 



New research led by scientists at the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a> has shed light on the often-overlooked <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-tourism-generates-over-1-megaton-carbon-annually/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> from long-distance travel. The research offers a new perspective on the scale at which traveling contributes to the ongoing climate crisis.



"The transport sector accounts for 30% of global energy use&nbsp;and 37% of global carbon dioxide emissions. Despite its large share in national emissions, transport has been one of the most difficult sectors to decarbonize," wrote the study authors.



"For example, between 1990 and 2019, emissions from other end-use sectors in the United Kingdom were reduced by 44% while those from transport were reduced by less than 5%, leaving transport with an increasingly larger share of emissions over time."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-carbon-consequences-of-long-distance-travel">The carbon consequences of long-distance travel</h2>



The Leeds study has revealed new insights into the environmental impact of various travel patterns, particularly in the United Kingdom. According to the researchers, even minor long-distance travel contributes significantly to the global carbon footprint. 



For UK residents, journeys spanning more than 50 miles one way - while making up less than 3% of all trips - are responsible for a staggering 70% of all travel-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/direct-evidence-electric-vehicles-measurably-reduce-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions.</a>



The impact is even more pronounced when it comes to international travel. Although accounting for a mere 0.4% of total trips, international journeys are responsible for 55% of emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increase-in-long-distance-travel">Increase in long-distance travel </h2>



Over the past 25 years, travel patterns have shifted. There has been a slight decline in domestic car journeys. However, this reduction has been overshadowed by a substantial increase in international air travel, driven largely by leisure and family visits.



"Flying internationally for leisure and social purposes has emerged as a crucial segment because of both its large share in mileage and emissions footprint and its continued growth over the past two decades compared with other travel purposes and modes," wrote the researchers.



"Post-COVID-19 international travel statistics also show that these two segments are still thriving."



The findings highlight the disproportionate environmental impact of long-distance and international travel, emphasizing the need for more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/travelers-are-ready-for-more-affordable-eco-friendly-options/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable travel options</a> and practices to mitigate the growing carbon footprint of global mobility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-on-long-distance-travel">A new perspective on long-distance travel </h2>



The study has reiterated the need for a change in strategy to combat the climate impacts of travel.



Dr. Zia Wadud is the study's lead researcher from the <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/transport" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute for Transport Studies and School of Chemical and Process Engineering</a>.



"The scale of the impact of long-distance travel is very large indeed. That just less than 3% of our trips are responsible for around 60% of miles and 70% of emissions shows how important long-distance travel is in the fight to combat climate change," noted Dr. Wadud.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-changes-to-reduce-carbon-emissions">Potential changes to reduce carbon emissions</h2>



According to the research, if all car journeys under eight miles were transferred to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/active-travel-can-greatly-reduce-co2-emissions-in-the-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">walking or cycling</a>, there would be a 9.3% reduction in carbon emissions.



This shift, though, would require altering approximately 55% of all journeys, as most travel is local and relies on cars. 



The researchers created a new metric, emission reduction sensitivity, which was applied to evaluate the types of travel that could be modified to maximize a reduction in carbon emissions from passenger travel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-to-a-sustainable-future">Path to a sustainable future</h2>



Dr. Muhammad Adeel, a co-author from the <a href="https://www.uwe.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the West of England</a>, voiced his concern that this issue needs urgent attention.



"Whilst efforts to move local journeys to more sustainable modes of transport are really positive, by omitting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aviation-emissions-big-data-analysis-sparks-new-concerns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aviation emissions</a> from national statistics – as is the case at the moment in nearly all countries – we are not getting a holistic picture and ignoring a large part of the problem," said Dr. Adeel.



This study offers a wake-up call for everyone - from policymakers to the public - to rethink their travel's carbon impact, prioritize long-distance trips, especially flights, and realize the largest reductions.



It underscores that the burden of combating climate change should not fall only on local and commuter journeys but also on long-distance travel, particularly international flights.



The path to a sustainable future is not clear-cut, but every step we take toward reducing our carbon footprint counts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-024-01561-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Energy</a>.



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The hidden carbon footprint of long-distance travel

The carbon footprint of human activity has never been more...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

<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>.



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

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