<p>Hotter summers are not just uncomfortable, they also changing the odds of getting sick from food. A new analysis links warmer air, higher moisture, specific dewpoint ranges, and longer daylight to spikes in Salmonella infections across two European countries. </p>



<p>The team showed that risk climbs when average temperatures rise above about 50°F and days stretch past 12 to 15 hours.</p>



<p>Lead author <a href="https://www.londonntd.org/research/researchers/laura-c-gonzalez-villeta" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Laura C. González Villeta</a> of the University of Surrey’s <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/school-veterinary-medicine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Veterinary Medicine</a><strong> </strong>led work that tied laboratory confirmed Salmonella cases to local weather conditions using a transparent statistical approach.</p>



<p>The bacteria called Salmonella cause <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15697-salmonella" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food poisoning</a> that often brings diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Common symptoms usually start within hours to a few days and most people recover without treatment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmonella-and-the-weather">Salmonella and the weather</h2>



<p>Researchers linked daily case counts from the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-health-security-agency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Health Security Agency</a> to detailed weather from the <a href="https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Met Office</a>, then checked the model with national surveillance data from the Netherlands. </p>



<p>They examined 14 factors, including temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, sunshine, and dewpoint temperature.</p>



<p>Instead of forcing a complex equation to fit the data, the group calculated a conditional incidence that directly describes how often cases occur when specific combinations of weather are present. </p>



<p>That method lets you see which trio of conditions lines up with higher infection counts without hiding the signal inside a black box.</p>



<p>The approach showed consistency when moved from one country to another after accounting for reporting differences. That matters because public <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/to-get-fit-and-stay-healthy-walk-this-exact-distance-every-day/">health</a> tools work best when they travel across borders without losing accuracy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-model-found">What the model found</h2>



<p>Risk rose when average air temperatures topped roughly 50°F, day length sat between 12 and 15 hours, and dewpoint hovered around the mid 40s to about 50°F. The same pattern appeared regardless of location.</p>



<p>Not every weather knob seemed important. Wind speed, air pressure, and sunshine duration had little or no association with reported cases in this dataset.</p>



<p>Seasonal peaks in late summer were reproduced when the model fed on local weather. That gave officials a way to anticipate risk based on last week’s skies rather than waiting for lab reports to trickle in.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-weather-boosts-salmonella">How weather boosts Salmonella</h2>



<p>Broader evidence lines up with these findings. A large <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11530612/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meta-analysis</a> of 23 Salmonella studies found about a 5 percent rise in risk for every 1.8°F increase in temperature.</p>



<p>Europe’s outbreak history shows why this topic matters. In 2018, nearly one in three foodborne outbreaks in the European Union were caused by Salmonella, according to an EFSA <a href="https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/news/salmonella-most-common-cause-foodborne-outbreaks-european-union" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a>.</p>



<p>That baseline risk has not disappeared in recent years. Surveillance summaries still identify Salmonella as a leading cause of foodborne outbreaks across the region, with eggs and mixed foods often involved, as noted in EFSA’s public <a href="https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/7666" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">publication</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-public-health">What this means for public health</h2>



<p>“The study highlights how weather plays a significant role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-are-overlooked-sources-of-antibiotic-resistant-salmonella/">Salmonella</a> outbreaks and provides a valuable tool for predicting future risks and tailoring interventions, particularly in the context of climate change,” said Dr. Villeta. The work is not just about describing patterns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Weather aware forecasting can help agencies time inspections, target hygiene messaging, and plan surge capacity when the odds of illness tick up. </p>



<p>Food businesses can also adjust cold chain checks, staff training, and consumer advice when riskier conditions line up.</p>



<p>Individuals are not powerless either. Keep cold foods cold, cook poultry and eggs to safe temperatures, refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, and wash hands and surfaces, especially when the air is warm and the day runs long.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-tech-forecasting-tools">High-tech forecasting tools</h2>



<p>Most forecasting tools lean on regression or time series fits that struggle with tangled, non linear interactions. </p>



<p>The conditional incidence approach shows how combinations of temperature, humidity, and daylight align with cases, which is easier to interpret and to explain.</p>



<p>That clarity helps separate what drives risk from noise. It also allows public health teams to identify factor combinations that do not explain much, saving effort where it will not pay off.</p>



<p>Model outputs replicated real world peaks and mapped risk at fine spatial scales. That is the level where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childrens-screen-time-shapes-their-mental-health-as-teens/">health</a> departments and food producers make day to day choices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limits-and-next-steps">Limits and next steps</h2>



<p>The model tracks reported cases, which understate total infections. Even so, de trending and validation across two countries suggest the weather signals are real.</p>



<p>Future tests in different climates and income settings would show how far the method travels. Adding data on livestock density, land use, and consumer behavior could sharpen predictions without losing transparency.</p>



<p>Better early warnings do not replace basic food safety, but they can make those steps more timely. That is useful as warmer summers and longer heat seasons become more common.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://www.journalofinfection.com/article/S0163-4453(25)00004-0/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Infection</em></a>.</p>



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Warmer weather is impacting global food supply, but not in the way you think

Hotter summers are not just uncomfortable, they also changing the odds of getting sick from food. A new analysis links warmer air, higher moisture, specific dewpoint ranges, and longer daylight to spikes in Salmonella infections across two European countries. The team showed that risk climbs when average temperatures rise above about 50°F and days stretch past 12 to 15 hours. Lead author Dr. Laura C. González Villeta of the University of Surrey’s School of Veterinary Medicine led work that tied laboratory confirmed Salmonella cases to local weather...

<p>Nature's scents are a less explored aspect of our environment that could offer significant health benefits, complementing the well-known visual experiences of nature that ease stress, uplift emotions, and promote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-time-in-nature-improves-physical-and-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical health</a>. </p>



<p>Gregory Bratman and his team emphasize the importance of understanding how these natural aromas impact our health. Their recent study outlines potential research directions that could deepen our knowledge of olfactory influences on our well-being.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sophisticated-olfactory-system-at-work">A sophisticated olfactory system at work</h2>



<p>Our sense of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smells-in-nature-help-us-feel-less-more-relaxed-and-cheerful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smell</a> functions as a sophisticated chemical detection system. The human nose contains hundreds of olfactory receptors, which are capable of distinguishing over a trillion different scents. </p>



<p>These receptors transmit signals directly to the nervous system, affecting our emotions and behaviors both consciously and subconsciously.</p>



<p>Additionally, the natural environment is abundant in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by plants. These VOCs, capable of persisting in the air for extended periods, perform various roles for plants, including repelling predators and attracting pollinators.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-science-of-scent-and-well-being">The science of scent and well-being</h2>



<p>"We are immersed in a world of odorants, and we have a sophisticated olfactory system that processes them, with resulting impacts on our emotions and behavior,” said Bratman. Yet, research on how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unlocking-memories-with-scents-may-help-treat-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scents</a> affect us lags behind visual studies. </p>



<p>Bratman and his colleagues propose a comprehensive framework to explore how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smells-in-nature-help-us-feel-less-more-relaxed-and-cheerful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a>'s scents influence human health.</p>



<p>The research team, comprising experts from fields such as psychology, ecology, and public health, aims to expand our understanding of these interactions. </p>



<p>The experts have investigated how certain scents might trigger a "subthreshold" response, influencing us without our conscious awareness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-personal-responses-to-nature-s-scents">Cultural and personal responses to nature's scents</h2>



<p>The impact of nature's scents extends beyond mere biological reactions; it is profoundly connected with personal and cultural contexts. </p>



<p>Asifa Majid from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, in collaboration with other researchers, has delved into how cultural backgrounds and personal experiences influence our perceptions of scents. </p>



<p>For instance, certain aromas might universally evoke pleasure, while others resonate with personal memories or vary widely in their reception across different cultures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activity-alters-olfactory-landscapes">Human activity alters olfactory landscapes</h2>



<p>The experts also examined how human activities alter the olfactory landscape. They found that pollution and habitat destruction can modify or obliterate natural scents, potentially robbing us of their benefits. </p>



<p>Jonathan Williams’ research highlights how natural VOCs react and mix in the atmosphere, emphasizing the need to better understand these processes to mitigate the negative impacts of human activity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-deeper-understanding-of-olfactory-benefits">A deeper understanding of olfactory benefits</h2>



<p>The research underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from various fields to explore the benefits we derive from nature’s aromas. </p>



<p>From the calming practice of Shinrin-yoku, or "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-forest-bathing-fresh-breath-for-teen-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest bathing</a>," to neuroscience and atmospheric chemistry, each discipline contributes to a holistic understanding of how we are affected by nature’s scents.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-scents-and-sustainability">Nature's scents and sustainability</h2>



<p>"We live within the chemical contexts that nature creates," said Bratman. By deepening our understanding of these olfactory effects, we can make more informed decisions about our environmental impacts and enhance efforts to protect and sustainably interact with the natural world. </p>



<p>The ongoing research aims not just to enlighten but to empower, guiding future environmental and public health strategies to harness the hidden power of nature's scents.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about nature's scents&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Nature’s scents are as varied and complex as the landscapes from which they emerge. From the petrichor that rises with the first rain on dry soil to the sweet aroma of blooming flowers in a meadow, each scent tells a story of its origin. </p>



<p>In dense forests, the air carries a mix of moss, damp foliage, and wood from ancient trees, creating a deeply earthy and grounding fragrance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Coastal scenes are marked by the crisp, salty smell of the sea, intertwined with hints of seaweed and sand. High up in the mountains, the cool air may carry a sharp, clean scent, often tinged with pine or mountain flowers. </p>



<p>Each of these natural aromas has a way of invigorating the senses, often evoking a sense of peace and connection to the Earth.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn3028" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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Nature’s scents linked to improved health and well-being

Nature's scents are a less explored aspect of our environment...

<p>If you enjoy the vibrant colors of wildflowers,&nbsp;the sweet taste of honey,&nbsp;or the juicy crunch of an apple,&nbsp;you have pollinators to thank.&nbsp;These creatures,&nbsp;including bees,&nbsp;butterflies,&nbsp;wasps,&nbsp;and even some birds and bats, play a crucial role in our ecosystem and food production.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;these vital <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-twist-in-the-evolution-of-plant-pollinator-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> are facing an unprecedented crisis due to climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their populations are declining worldwide at an alarming rate. A new study,&nbsp;led by Dr.&nbsp;Johanne Brunet and Dr.&nbsp;Fabiana Fragoso,&nbsp;paints a grim picture of the multiple stressors impacting pollinators,&nbsp;many of which are a direct result of human activities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-impact-on-pollinators">Climate change impact on pollinators</h2>



<p>"This review introduces the diversity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-pollinators-wild-bees-boosts-food-supply-income/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>,&nbsp;addresses the main drivers of pollinator decline,&nbsp;and presents strategies to reduce their negative impacts," said Dr.&nbsp;Brunet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We discuss how managed bees negatively affect wild bee species,&nbsp;and examine the impact of habitat loss,&nbsp;pesticide use,&nbsp;pests and pathogens,&nbsp;pollution,&nbsp;and climate change on pollinator decline.&nbsp;Connections between humans and pollinator decline are also addressed."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-loss-to-food-insecurity">Biodiversity loss to food insecurity</h2>



<p>The decline of pollinators has far-reaching consequences. It not only threatens biodiversity but also jeopardizes crop yields and food security. </p>



<p>According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (<a href="https://www.ipbes.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPBES</a>), a staggering 16% of vertebrate pollinators, such as birds and bats, and 40% of invertebrate pollinators, including bees and butterflies, are at risk of extinction. </p>



<p>This alarming decline could lead to a significant reduction in the availability and variety of food sources, particularly fruits and vegetables that rely on pollination for reproduction.</p>



<p>Without these pollinators, plants would struggle to produce the seeds and fruits necessary for their survival and propagation. This decline would not only diminish our diets but also disrupt entire ecosystems that depend on these plants. The loss of pollinators could cause a ripple effect, impacting other species and leading to a less diverse and resilient environment.</p>



<p>"In the absence of pollinators,&nbsp;the human diet will shift towards a preponderance of wheat,&nbsp;rice,&nbsp;oat,&nbsp;and corn,&nbsp;as these are wind-pollinated crops," said Dr.&nbsp;Fragoso.&nbsp;"Crops that reproduce vegetatively,&nbsp;such as bananas,&nbsp;will be maintained."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-complex-threats-to-pollinators">Climate change and complex threats to pollinators</h2>



<p>The decline of pollinators is not a simple issue with a single cause. It's a complex web of interconnected factors, each contributing to the overall crisis. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change">Climate change</h3>



<p>Climate change, with its associated changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, disrupts the delicate balance of pollinator habitats and food sources. These changes can alter blooming periods of plants and the availability of nectar and pollen, which are critical for pollinators' survival.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-loss">Habitat loss</h3>



<p>The problem is further exacerbated by habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanization, leaving pollinators with fewer places to forage and reproduce. Concrete and asphalt replace natural habitats, reducing areas where pollinators can thrive. This habitat fragmentation isolates pollinator populations, making it difficult for them to find mates and maintain genetic diversity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pesticides-and-herbicides">Pesticides and herbicides </h3>



<p>The widespread use of pesticides and herbicides in agriculture also takes a toll on pollinators. Pesticides can be toxic to pollinators, killing them outright or impairing their ability to forage and reproduce. </p>



<p>Herbicides reduce the availability of wildflowers and other plants that provide essential food sources. These chemicals create a hostile environment for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollution-prevents-nighttime-pollinators-from-finding-flowers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>, making it difficult for them to survive and thrive.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-species-and-disease">Invasive species and disease</h3>



<p>Additionally, pollinator populations are impacted by the introduction of non-native species and diseases. Invasive species can outcompete native pollinators for resources, while new diseases can spread rapidly and decimate populations. </p>



<p>This combination of factors creates a challenging environment for pollinators, contributing to their decline and threatening the ecosystems that depend on them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-practices-and-global-cooperation">Sustainable practices and global cooperation</h2>



<p>While the situation is dire,&nbsp;there is still hope for pollinators.&nbsp;The researchers emphasize the importance of adopting sustainable agricultural practices that minimize the use of harmful chemicals and promote biodiversity.&nbsp;They also advocate for integrated pollinator management strategies that consider both wild and managed bee populations.</p>



<p>"Widespread use of sustainable practices in agriculture,&nbsp;and further development of integrated pollinator management strategies,&nbsp;eco-friendly strategies including reduction of pesticide use,&nbsp;will help preserve pollinators," said Dr.&nbsp;Fragoso.</p>



<p>"Potential adverse effects of managed bees on the local wild bee populations must be mitigated.&nbsp;Non-lethal collection methods should be developed and adopted globally in response to the increasing need for base-line pollinator data collection."</p>



<p>Addressing the threat of climate change is also crucial. Climate change affects pollinators by altering their habitats and the availability of food resources. It changes temperature and precipitation patterns, which can disrupt the life cycles of both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-that-90-of-flowering-plant-species-rely-on-animal-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> and the plants. This can lead to mismatches in timing, such as when plants bloom and when pollinators are active, reducing pollination.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-action-is-needed">Urgent action is needed</h2>



<p>The decline of pollinators is a global crisis that requires urgent action.&nbsp;We can all play a role in supporting these essential creatures.&nbsp;By planting pollinator-friendly gardens,&nbsp;supporting sustainable agriculture,&nbsp;and advocating for policies that protect pollinators and their habitats,&nbsp;we can help ensure a future where both pollinators and humans can thrive.</p>



<p>"Measures must keep being implemented to reduce climate change and prevent its serious negative impacts on pollinators.&nbsp;Climate change has the most diverse negative impacts on pollinators and is the threat most difficult to control.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;its consequences threaten food security and world stability,&nbsp;thus efforts to control it must be prioritized at a global scale," noted Dr.&nbsp;Brunet.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/10.1079/cabireviews.2024.0016" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>CABI Reviews</em></a>.</p>



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Most pollinators face extinction risk due to climate change

If you enjoy the vibrant colors of wildflowers,&nbsp;the sweet taste...

Ccsfacilities,Capture,Carbon,Dioxide,Emissions,From,Industrial,Processes,And,Power

<p>Carbon capture technology, which involves directly capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere to store it underground, might seem like a perfect solution for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-capture-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. However, despite its advancements, it still encounters many uncertainties. </p>



<p>Oliver Geden, an IPCC member and expert in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-capture-technology-could-greatly-reduce-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide removal</a>, highlights the evolving nature of this field, particularly Direct Air Capture with Carbon Storage (DACCS). </p>



<p>"The small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-removal-technologies-necessary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DACCS</a> ecosystem gets more diverse... but we're not exactly sure where this will lead to," Geden explains, reflecting the unclear future of this technology in the broader context of climate change mitigation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Promise of DACCS strategic approach</h2>



<p>Direct Air Carbon Capture and Storage (DACCS) has emerged as a promising strategy for reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. This innovative technology actively removes CO2 directly from the air, offering a potential solution to mitigate climate change.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How DACCS works</h3>



<p>DACCS systems employ specialized filters or chemicals to capture CO2 from the atmosphere. These systems actively draw in air, separate the CO2, and then store it securely underground or utilize it in various industrial processes. </p>



<p>By directly targeting atmospheric CO2, DACCS offers a more focused approach compared to other carbon capture methods.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Advantages of DACCS</h3>



<p>DACCS presents several key advantages. Firstly, it can be implemented in a variety of locations, not just at the source of emissions. </p>



<p>Secondly, DACCS has the potential to remove large quantities of CO2 from the atmosphere, making it a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. </p>



<p>Additionally, the captured CO2 can be utilized in various applications, such as enhanced oil recovery or the production of low-carbon fuels and materials.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Challenges and future prospects</h3>



<p>Despite its promise, DACCS currently faces challenges related to cost and scalability. Researchers and companies are actively working to improve the efficiency and economic viability of DACCS systems. As technology advances and economies of scale are achieved, DACCS is expected to play an increasingly significant role in global carbon capture efforts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-capture-technology-in-climate-models">Carbon capture technology in climate models</h2>



<p>The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a>) includes carbon capture and storage (CCS) in its portfolio of strategies to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels. However, it does not position this technology at the forefront of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-pool-of-global-soil-carbon-alters-climate-change-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate action models</a>. </p>



<p>This suggests a cautious approach to relying heavily on this technology without understanding its broader impacts fully.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-investments-in-carbon-capture-technology">Big investments in carbon capture technology</h2>



<p>High costs have not deterred major corporations from engaging with carbon capture technologies. </p>



<p>Companies like Microsoft, Amazon, Airbus, and even Lego are investing heavily, paying around $1,000 per ton of CO2 captured and stored. </p>



<p>These investments, often in the form of carbon credits, are part of their strategies to offset emissions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanics-of-carbon-capture-technology">Mechanics of carbon capture technology</h2>



<p>The process involves <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powder-capture-store-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capturing CO2</a> molecules from the air using large fans. These molecules are then absorbed by either a liquid or a solid filter. </p>



<p>After the filter is saturated, it is heated to release pure CO2 -- this step is energy-intensive, requiring temperatures up to 120 degrees Celsius for solid filters and 900 degrees Celsius for liquid ones. </p>



<p>This released CO2 is then compressed and injected into underground rock formations for long-term storage. The feasibility of scaling up this technology hinges significantly on the availability of renewable energy sources to minimize environmental impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-and-economic-challenges">Environmental and economic challenges</h2>



<p>While the carbon capture technology's chemical components can be reused, the environmental impacts of their production on a large scale remain largely unexplored. </p>



<p>Additionally, the costs associated with direct air capture technologies are currently high, ranging between $600 and $1,000 per ton of CO2 captured. </p>



<p>These costs could potentially decrease to between $100 and $300 in the future, making the technology more economically viable.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-current-operations-and-future-plans">Current operations and future plans</h2>



<p>Currently, only a few commercial carbon capture facilities like Orca in Iceland are operational, with Orca capturing about 4,000 tons of CO2 annually. While this might seem significant, it pales in comparison to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global emissions</a>.</p>



<p>According to the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, about two billion tons of CO2 are eliminated each year primarily through natural processes like reforestation, compared to the 40 billion tons emitted worldwide.</p>



<p>Looking ahead, nearly 30 carbon capture projects are set to commence in various countries, aiming to store close to 10 million tons of CO2 by 2030. </p>



<p>However, the expansion of projects with carbon capture technology is contingent on securing adequate funding, a challenge that has hindered many potential initiatives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-verdict-on-carbon-capture-s-future">The verdict on carbon capture's future</h2>



<p>Despite the challenges, the sector is seeing a surge in interest and development. Geden noted the significant growth in startups within the sector. However, he also cautioned that the recent acquisition of the pioneering firm Carbon Engineering by Oxy Petroleum for $1.1 billion might shift focus from storage to more profitable reuse applications by major oil companies.</p>



<p>In summary, while carbon capture technology holds potential, its success and impact depend on overcoming significant technical, environmental, and economic hurdles. The journey of integrating carbon capture into our broader climate strategy is just beginning, with many milestones yet to be achieved.</p>



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Carbon capture technology faces uncertainty despite heavy investment

Carbon capture technology, which involves directly capturing carbon dioxide (CO2)...

<p>Recent large-scale wildfires have sparked concern not only for immediate damage but also for the lasting effects on soil chemistry, which can influence water safety, air quality, and plant regeneration. </p>



<p>Despite their significance, these changes often go unnoticed in recovery and risk management strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Deeper understanding of wildfire-induced soil reactions</h2>



<p>Research coordinated by scientists from <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a> and <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a> reveals that our current methods of monitoring soil and ecosystem changes post-wildfire are inadequate.</p>



<p>Enhanced monitoring techniques could greatly improve how we manage scenarios after wildfires, including the treatment of drinking water, reforestation efforts, and safeguarding workers during clean-up processes involving potential toxins.</p>



<p>"In our study, we integrate organic with inorganic chemistry, unlike typical research that might focus on just one aspect," explains Claudia Avila, who led the study alongside Alandra Lopez. Both were postdoctoral scholars at the time, under the guidance of Professor Scott Fendorf from Stanford’s Doerr School of Sustainability.</p>



<p>“Understanding the molecular mechanisms in soil helps us decipher why water from fire-impacted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-pollutants-negatively-impact-water-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watersheds</a> might become more toxic, or why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-global-forest-loss-has-been-caused-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> struggle to regenerate," says Thomas Borch, a senior author of the study from Colorado State University.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenging the role of black carbon </h2>



<p>The experts noted that wildfires may contribute more to atmospheric carbon dioxide levels than previously thought. </p>



<p>Moreover, the assumption that black carbon (the residue left from burned organic materials) can lock away <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-fires-have-released-a-billion-tons-of-carbon-dioxide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> for extended periods is being challenged. </p>



<p>“Microbes might convert black carbon into carbon dioxide faster than we believed," says Professor Fendorf.</p>



<p>According to Borch, the lack of clarity about how much post-fire carbon turns into greenhouse gases is a gap in our climate understanding.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-benefits-amidst-the-damage">Ecological benefits amidst the damage</h2>



<p>Wildfires are not solely destructive; they can also enrich <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/burned-soil-provides-a-feast-for-fungi-and-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soils</a> with nitrogen and make organic carbon more soluble, laying the groundwork for new growth. </p>



<p>The presence of certain chemicals is crucial, though. For example, compounds known as karrikins are necessary for seed germination and growth, yet they might not always be produced in sufficient quantities during fires.</p>



<p>However, the study also notes an increase in toxic substances like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soils post-wildfire, which can hinder plant recovery. </p>



<p>“These molecular-scale impacts might help us understand why reforestation is difficult in vast areas of the Rockies,” says Borch.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alterations-to-inorganic-materials">Alterations to inorganic materials</h2>



<p>Wildfires also modify the chemical nature of metals in the soil, turning them into forms that can easily migrate to air and water sources. </p>



<p>“Our findings show high levels of hazardous chromium forms at sites with extreme, prolonged heat, persisting until heavy rainfall occurs,” explains Lopez.</p>



<p>Interestingly, in less intense fires, remnants of plant and animal tissues can help revert chromium back to its less harmful state.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-towards-better-wildfire-management">Towards better wildfire management</h2>



<p>A more comprehensive approach to monitoring and modeling could pave the way for more effective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/woodpecker-behavior-can-guide-post-fire-forest-management/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire management</a>, protecting both human and natural resources. </p>



<p>“Identifying areas at risk for hazardous chromium release could allow us to manage fire intensity through controlled burns, minimizing the risk of releasing toxins," says Avila.</p>



<p>“By fully understanding the complex interactions in fire-affected soils, we can better predict and manage the outcomes across various fire, landscape, and geological conditions," notes Fendorf.</p>



<p>Based on soil chemistry changes induced by wildfires, the scientists are uncovering critical insights that could enhance our approach to managing and recovering from these natural disasters. </p>



<p>As research progresses, the hope is that these findings will lead to better strategies for mitigating the impact of wildfires on our environment and communities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about soil changes after wildfires</h2>



<p>After a wildfire, soil undergoes several significant changes that can affect its structure, composition, and function within the ecosystem. </p>



<p>Wildfires can increase soil temperatures dramatically, which leads to the combustion of organic matter. This reduction in organic matter affects the soil's fertility and its ability to retain moisture, leading to changes in the types of vegetation that can grow back.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Water-repellent layer</h3>



<p>The heat from a fire can also cause soil particles to fuse, creating a water-repellent layer known as hydrophobicity. This layer can prevent water from penetrating the soil, increasing runoff and the risk of erosion. </p>



<p>The lack of infiltration can further deplete soil moisture and reduce groundwater recharge, which is critical for vegetation and wildlife.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nutrient dynamics&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The nutrient dynamics of the soil are also altered. While fires can initially increase the availability of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus due to the ash deposition, these nutrients can be quickly washed away by rain, leading to a nutrient-poor environment. Over time, this can affect plant regrowth and soil productivity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Soil microbes</h3>



<p>Additionally, wildfires can change the microbial community within the soil. The intense heat can kill beneficial microbes that are essential for decomposing organic material and recycling nutrients. </p>



<p>The disruption of these microbial communities can slow the recovery of the soil's natural fertility and structure.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Soil recovery&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Recovery and restoration of soil after wildfires depend heavily on the severity of the burn, the type of soil, the pre-fire vegetation, and subsequent weather conditions. </p>



<p>In some cases, natural recovery can occur with the return of vegetation which helps stabilize the soil and restore its organic content. </p>



<p>In other cases, human intervention might be necessary to rehabilitate the soil and prevent further degradation.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43017-024-00548-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Reviews Earth &amp; Environment</a></em></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Wildfires have lasting impacts on soil chemistry

Recent large-scale wildfires have sparked concern not only for immediate...

<p>Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) serve as crucial sanctuaries aimed at safeguarding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emerging-issues-that-may-impact-marine-biodiversity-are-poorly-understood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine biodiversity</a> and ensuring sustainable ecosystems. </p>



<p>These areas, established to protect marine life, enhance ecosystem resilience, and secure long-term benefits for both nature and humanity, cover a substantial portion of the Earth’s oceans. </p>



<p>However, an international collaboration, including researchers from <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, highlights a significant deficiency in the effectiveness of these areas.</p>



<p>The collaboration's analysis of the world’s 100 largest MPAs - which represent nearly 90% of Earth’s protected oceanic regions - reveals that these areas are underperforming in biodiversity conservation. </p>



<p>The study points to slow management implementation and insufficient restrictions on detrimental human activities as primary reasons for this inefficacy.</p>



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



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-stability-helped-ocean-biodiversity-flourish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ocean biodiversity</a> is indispensable, playing a pivotal role in climate regulation, oxygen production, and food supply. It also harbors potential benefits for medicine and industry through its diverse genetic and molecular makeup. </p>



<p>The presence of varied species within these MPAs helps mitigate adverse impacts on the marine ecosystem, crucial for maintaining the balance necessary for human and ecological health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-the-mpa-guide">Insights from The MPA Guide</h2>



<p>The study’s framework was based on criteria from "The MPA Guide: A framework to achieve global goals for the ocean," a seminal piece in guiding global marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>. </p>



<p>One of the key researchers involved in the study, Kirsten Grorud-Colvert, emphasized the urgency of enhancing the health and diversity of ocean areas. </p>



<p>"Now more than ever we need healthy and biodiverse areas in the ocean to benefit people and help buffer threats to ocean ecosystems," said Grorud-Colvert, underscoring the necessity for effective, just, and durable MPAs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The 2030 biodiversity conservation target and MPA effectiveness</h2>



<p>With a biodiversity conservation target set by the United Nations to protect at least 30% of the ocean by 2030, the findings serve as a crucial reminder of the need for both increased coverage and enhanced quality of MPAs. </p>



<p>The report also questions the effectiveness of current conservation efforts, suggesting that a focus on quality, rather than merely the quantity of protected areas, is essential for genuine progress.</p>



<p>Beth Pike of the <a href="https://marine-conservation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Conservation Institute</a>, who led the assessment, weighed in on the outcomes linked to the design and management of MPAs. </p>



<p>She noted significant disparities between the coverage of MPAs and the strength of protections they offer, suggesting that many MPAs, while extensive, do not sufficiently safeguard <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protect-marine-ecosystems-overfishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>. </p>



<p>This points to an urgent need for adjustments in the approach to marine conservation to meet the 2030 biodiversity goals effectively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-recommendations">Challenges and recommendations</h2>



<p>Despite the potential of MPAs as effective tools for biodiversity conservation, the report highlights notable variations in their design, goals, regulations, and management. </p>



<p>For instance, while some MPAs prohibit activities like oil drilling and industrial fishing, others allow them, which greatly reduces their effectiveness. </p>



<p>Furthermore, a quarter of these areas lack implemented management plans, rendering them no different from unprotected waters.</p>



<p>Another Oregon State marine ecologist involved in the study, Jenna Sullivan-Stack, pointed out that the title of "marine protected area" often sets expectations of a healthy, vibrant ocean space supportive of biodiversity. </p>



<p>"That’s not always the case," said Sullivan-Stack. She stressed the importance of a standardized assessment method to provide a clear, evidence-based understanding of the actual state of biodiversity protection in MPAs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-geographic-distribution-of-mpas">The geographic distribution of MPAs</h2>



<p>The researchers also noted that large MPAs are often located in remote areas, leaving vital habitats and species in less remote regions unprotected. </p>



<p>This geographic imbalance underscores the need for a more strategic placement of MPAs to encompass a broader range of critical marine environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-marine-protected-areas">Enhancing marine protected areas</h2>



<p>The analysis provided by the international team serves as a call to action for enhancing the design and management of marine protected areas. </p>



<p>By focusing on strengthening these ocean guardians, we can ensure they fulfill their role as effective protectors of marine biodiversity, supporting ecosystems and communities worldwide. </p>



<p>The journey towards achieving the 2030 conservation goal is not just about expanding the ocean’s protected areas - it’s about ensuring these areas are truly capable of sustaining the marine life they are designed to protect.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/conl.13020" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Letters</a></em>.</p>



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Marine protected areas fall short on 2030 biodiversity targets

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) serve as crucial sanctuaries aimed at...

<p>The Great Barrier <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-coral-reefs-can-bounce-back-in-just-four-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reef</a>, a breathtaking underwater world teeming with life, faces a formidable foe: the crown-of-thorns <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/killing-crown-of-thorns-starfish-cots-could-save-great-barrier-reef/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">starfish</a>. </p>



<p>These coral-munching marauders have wreaked havoc on the reef, leaving behind a trail of bleached and lifeless coral skeletons. But a glimmer of hope has emerged from an unlikely source -- the starfish's own genes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crown-of-thorns-starfish-and-coral-reefs">Crown-of-thorns starfish and coral reefs</h2>



<p>Crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) present a significant ecological threat to coral reefs due to their voracious appetite for coral polyps, which are the living tissue that builds and sustains coral reefs. When COTS populations surge, they engage in extensive coral predation, leading to severe degradation of reef structures. </p>



<p>This predation reduces coral cover drastically, which has a cascading effect on the entire marine ecosystem. Healthy coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots, providing habitat and food for a myriad of marine species. </p>



<p>When COTS decimate coral populations, the loss of habitat and food sources results in a decline in marine biodiversity, affecting fish populations, invertebrates, and other marine life that rely on the reef.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-starfish-and-slow-coral-reef-recovery-rate">Starfish and slow coral reef recovery rate</h2>



<p>The impact of COTS is further exacerbated by the slow growth and recovery rates of coral reefs. Coral regeneration is a lengthy process, often taking decades to recover from damage. </p>



<p>Frequent or severe COTS outbreaks can thus set back reef recovery for many years, hindering the ability of these ecosystems to bounce back. </p>



<p>Additionally, reefs weakened by COTS predation are more susceptible to other environmental stresses such as climate change, pollution, and overfishing. These additional stressors can compound the damage, making it even more challenging for the reef to recover. </p>



<p>As a result, controlling COTS populations is essential for preserving the health and resilience of coral reefs, which are vital for maintaining marine biodiversity, protecting coastal regions, and supporting local economies dependent on tourism and fishing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-starfish-behavior-and-gene-expression">Starfish behavior and gene expression</h2>



<p>In a recent study, <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Queensland</a> researchers Marie Morin and Mathias Jönsson embarked on a genetic quest to understand the inner workings of these destructive creatures. Their mission? To decipher the genetic code behind the starfish's key behaviors, particularly their rampant reproduction.</p>



<p>"By understanding how crown-of-thorns starfish genes work, we can unlock the mechanisms behind their key behaviors and find ways to stop them breeding," explains Morin.</p>



<p>The researchers focused on "gene expression," the process by which genes are translated into action, producing proteins or RNA molecules. They discovered over 2,000 protein-coding genes that showed significant changes between summer and winter. </p>



<p>This finding sheds light on the seasonal rhythms and behaviors of the crown-of-thorns starfish, providing crucial insights into their biology and potential vulnerabilities. By understanding these patterns, scientists can better target their efforts to control the starfish population and protect coral reefs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupting-starfish-reproduction-genes">Disrupting starfish reproduction genes</h2>



<p>The research team's most significant finding was the identification of specific genes that play a crucial role in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crown-of-thorns-starfish-are-natures-ultimate-coral-predators-and-they-are-winning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crown-of-thorns starfish</a>'s reproductive processes,&nbsp;such as the timing of spawning or the development of reproductive organs.</p>



<p>This discovery is a major advancement,&nbsp;as it presents the possibility of developing targeted genetic interventions.&nbsp;These interventions could involve manipulating these identified genes to disrupt the starfish's reproductive cycle,&nbsp;potentially by preventing fertilization,&nbsp;inhibiting the development of reproductive cells,&nbsp;or altering the timing of spawning.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By disrupting the reproductive cycle,&nbsp;scientists could control the population growth of these starfish and mitigate their destructive impact on coral reefs,&nbsp;allowing the reefs to recover and thrive.</p>



<p>"This is a promising sign because if we can find ways to disrupt this communication genetically, it could stop the starfish reproducing," says Morin.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wild-side-of-starfish-genes">Wild side of starfish genes</h2>



<p>Unlike previous studies that relied on captive starfish, the research ventured into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef to analyze wild populations. This approach, says Professor Bernard Degnan, is crucial for understanding the true genetic makeup and behaviors of these creatures in their natural habitat.</p>



<p>"Analyzing marine animals in a lab can cause changes to the animal and its functional genetics," Degnan explains. "By capturing crown-of-thorns starfish in the deep heart of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), we were able find out what's really happening in wild populations."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-reef-conservation">Coral reef conservation</h2>



<p>The implications of this research are far-reaching. Dr. Mary Bonin, GBR Foundation COTS Control Innovation Program Director, hails it as a game-changer in the fight to protect the reef.</p>



<p>"This exciting research paves the way for the development of new control tools to help address this threat to reef health," says Dr. Bonin.</p>



<p>While COTS are native to the Great Barrier <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-coral-reefs-deeper-zones-currently-safe-warming-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reef</a>, their population outbreaks pose a grave threat to the delicate coral ecosystem. By understanding and manipulating their genetics, scientists may be able to develop targeted, environmentally friendly solutions to control their numbers and safeguard the reef's future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-starfish-and-coral-reefs">Future of starfish and coral reefs</h2>



<p>The next phase of this research will involve further genetic analysis and the exploration of natural pest control measures. The goal is to develop innovative strategies that can be deployed on the Great Barrier Reef to mitigate the damage caused by these starfish and restore the reef's vitality.</p>



<p>The battle to save coral reefs is a race against time. Climate change, pollution, and other human-induced stressors have already taken a toll on these fragile ecosystems. But with remarkable research like this, there is hope that we can turn the tide and protect these underwater wonders for generations to come.</p>



<p>The crown-of-thorns starfish may be a formidable adversary, but by unraveling the secrets hidden within its genes, scientists are forging a new path towards a brighter future for coral reefs and the countless marine species that call them home.</p>



<p>The research&nbsp;is published in&nbsp;<em><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002620" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Biology</a></em>.</p>



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"Crown-of-thorns" starfish genetics may help protect reefs

The Great Barrier Reef, a breathtaking underwater world teeming with...

<p>The Earth's climate is a complex beast, full of twists and turns that span millennia. Researchers digging into the frozen history of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-sheet-fracture-sets-a-speed-record-in-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic</a> ice have uncovered a startling revelation: today's carbon dioxide (CO2) levels are skyrocketing at a pace ten times faster than any natural spike in the last 50,000 years. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-dioxide-and-its-impact">Carbon dioxide and its impact</h2>



<p>CO2 is a naturally occurring gas in the Earth's atmosphere that plays a crucial role in regulating the planet's temperature. However, excessive amounts of CO2 in the atmosphere lead to a rise in global temperatures. This is due to the greenhouse effect, where CO2 traps heat radiated from the Earth's surface, preventing it from escaping into space.</p>



<p>CO2 levels have naturally fluctuated throughout Earth's history. Factors include volcanic activity and Earth's orbital patterns. However, the current rapid increase is mainly due to human activities. The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, plays a big role. This burning releases large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. It leads to an imbalance in the natural carbon cycle.</p>



<p>This excess CO2 acts as a blanket, trapping heat and causing the planet to warm. The consequences of this warming are far-reaching and include rising sea levels, more frequent and intense heatwaves, disruptions to weather patterns, and threats to biodiversity. Addressing this issue requires a significant reduction in CO2 emissions through transitioning to cleaner energy sources and adopting sustainable practices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-cores">Ice cores</h2>



<p>Ice cores,&nbsp;extracted from ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-suffered-extremely-rapid-ice-loss-after-the-last-ice-age-alarming-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice</a> sheets such as those in Antarctica,&nbsp;serve as invaluable records of Earth's past climate.These long cylinders of ice are formed from the gradual accumulation of snow over centuries and millennia.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As the snow compresses into ice,&nbsp;tiny air bubbles become trapped within the layers.&nbsp;These air bubbles contain samples of the ancient atmosphere,&nbsp;preserving information about its composition at the time the ice formed.</p>



<p>Scientists extract gases from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-protective-ice-barriers-are-melting-at-double-the-pace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice</a> cores. They measure levels of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. This data helps them build a timeline of Earth's climate. It shows natural fluctuations and human impacts on the atmosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-co2-spikes-and-ice-sheet-collapses">CO2 spikes and ice sheet collapses</h2>



<p>Previous research hinted at sudden CO2 jumps during the last <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-force-moves-ross-ice-shelf-antarctica-every-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice</a> age,&nbsp;but the data wasn't detailed enough to paint a complete picture.&nbsp;Now,&nbsp;with more precise measurements,&nbsp;scientists have uncovered a fascinating pattern.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The CO2 spikes coincided with dramatic events called Heinrich Events, which were essentially massive collapses of the North American ice sheet that triggered abrupt climate shifts around the globe.</p>



<p>"These Heinrich Events are truly remarkable," said <a href="https://ceoas.oregonstate.edu/people/christo-buizert" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christo Buizert</a>, an associate professor in the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences and co-author of the study. "We think they are caused by a dramatic collapse of the North American ice sheet. This sets into motion a chain reaction that involves changes to the tropical monsoons, the Southern hemisphere westerly winds and these large burps of CO2 coming out of the oceans.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-cores-reveal-10x-faster-co2-rise">Ice cores reveal 10x faster CO2 rise</h2>



<p>Historical data from ice cores reveals that the most significant natural increase in atmospheric CO2 levels occurred over a period of 55 years. It has resulted in a rise of approximately 14 parts per million (ppm).&nbsp;</p>



<p>The current rate of CO2 increase is alarmingly fast. It is primarily caused by human activities. These activities include burning fossil fuels and deforestation. In the past, similar increases took much longer. Now, they happen in just five to six years.</p>



<p>This accelerated rate is unprecedented and highlights the significant impact human actions are having on the Earth's atmosphere and climate.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chilling-warning-for-the-future">Chilling warning for the future</h2>



<p>The research doesn't just offer a glimpse into the past; it raises red flags for our future. Past CO2 spikes were linked to changes in powerful winds called westerlies, which influence the ocean's ability to absorb CO2. Some research suggests these winds may strengthen again due to climate change, potentially hindering the Southern Ocean's ability to absorb our excess carbon emissions.</p>



<p>"We rely on the Southern Ocean to take up part of the carbon dioxide we emit,&nbsp;but rapidly increasing southerly winds weaken its ability to do so," warns Kathleen Wendt,&nbsp;the lead author of the study.</p>



<p>The Earth's climate is a complex puzzle,&nbsp;and the latest research from Antarctic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-ice-shelves-melting-faster-due-to-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice</a> cores adds a crucial piece.&nbsp;The unprecedented rate at which we're pumping CO2 into the atmosphere is a wake-up call.&nbsp;It's as if we're hitting the fast-forward button on a natural process that typically unfolds over thousands of years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This new understanding of past climate shifts is valuable. It also serves as a stark reminder. We need to take urgent action. This is to mitigate the potentially devastating consequences of climate change.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2319652121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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Sea ice reveals that CO2 is rising at the fastest rate in 50,000 years

The Earth's climate is a complex beast, full of twists and...

<p>In recent years, avocados have become synonymous with modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-one-avocado-each-day-can-add-years-to-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating habits</a>, especially popular among millennials who frequent trendy cafés. However, this beloved fruit faces an imminent threat due to the worsening <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-our-way-out-of-the-climate-crisis-with-farm-free-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a>. </p>



<p>Recent research predicts a significant decline in the world’s prime avocado-growing regions, with projections showing up to a 41% reduction by 2050. </p>



<p>The culprit? An increasingly hotter, drier climate, which poses a serious challenge to avocado cultivation.</p>



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



<p>Avocados, often hailed as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-avocado-debate-understanding-the-impacts-of-our-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superfood</a>, require substantial amounts of water to thrive. This characteristic renders them particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. </p>



<p>According to the report titled "Getting Smashed: The climate danger facing avocados" released by <a href="https://www.christianaid.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C</a><a href="https://www.christianaid.org.uk/news/what-we-do/avocados-are-getting-smashed-climate-change" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hristian Aid</a>, if global warming continues unchecked, the suitable areas for growing this fruit could decrease dramatically. </p>



<p>"Avocados might be a superfood but their kryptonite is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-crop-growing-regions-are-shifting-as-the-climate-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. They are thirsty plants that are ill-suited to a hotter, drought-prone planet," said Mariana Paoli, Global Advocacy Lead at Christian Aid.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-impact-of-declining-avocado-production">Global impact of declining avocado production</h2>



<p>The decline in avocado production extends beyond just affecting enthusiasts of guacamole or avocado toast; it has significant global implications. As the seventh-largest importer of avocado crops, the UK exemplifies the fruit's importance on an international scale. </p>



<p>Avocados, rich in nutrients and healthy fats, form an essential component of diets worldwide. Moreover, ongoing research points to potential health benefits, including avocados' properties against diseases such as cancer. </p>



<p>Yet, the anticipated conditions of extreme heat and prolonged drought threaten the ability of avocado trees to thrive and produce fruit effectively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-regions-will-be-hit-harder-than-others">Some regions will be hit harder than others</h2>



<p>Specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-crop-growing-regions-are-shifting-as-the-climate-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regions</a> are expected to suffer more than others. For example, Michoacán, a pivotal avocado-growing area in Mexico, might see its production capacity plummet by 59% by 2050, even if global temperature increases stay below 2°Celsius. </p>



<p>This region, like others, has experienced significant land clearance to meet the soaring demand, primarily from the US. Currently, Mexico leads the global avocado market, but the future seems uncertain with these climatic challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-response-and-the-call-for-action">The response and the call for action</h2>



<p>The report not only highlights the challenges faced due to climate change but also urges actionable responses. It calls for stronger support for farmers and emphasizes the urgency of reducing emissions. </p>



<p>Transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources is identified as a critical step in mitigating these adverse effects.</p>



<p>Beyond their environmental impact, avocados have also sparked significant cultural debate. In Australia, they became a symbol of generational economic discussions after millionaire Tim Gurner controversially linked millennials' penchant for avocado toast with their struggles in achieving home ownership in 2017.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-avocado-farming">The future of avocado farming</h2>



<p>As the situation evolves, it's clear that both producers and consumers face a challenging future. With prices likely to rise due to scarcity, significant shifts in the global market are anticipated. </p>



<p>Accordingly, the report urges wealthier nations to take robust actions to reduce their emissions and transition to cleaner energy solutions. These measures are crucial not just for those who enjoy this fruit, but for the global community reliant on such vital crops. </p>



<p>Ultimately, the steps we take now could determine their availability and affordability for generations to come.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-plight-of-avocado-farmers">The plight of avocado farmers</h2>



<p>Jolis Bigirimana, who leads Farmer’s Pride in Burundi, described the dire circumstances faced by avocado farmers.</p>



<p>‘We are experiencing hot temperatures, heavy rain, and erosion which is having a terrible impact on farmers' productivity and their income. We only have a very short period of rainfall here in Burundi and during that period avocado growers used to water their plants,” said Bigirimana.</p>



<p>“But because of climate change the weather is now more extreme and this has affected our productivity. It now costs us a lot of money to water our crops which has affected our income and is a threat to our livelihoods.”</p>



<p>"We need to see richer, polluting countries to cut their carbon emissions which is driving this extreme weather and also provide climate finance to help us adapt to the changing climate.”</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Avocados are threatened by extreme climate conditions

In recent years, avocados have become synonymous with modern eating...

<p>According to a recent study, the summer of 2023 was the hottest in the Northern Hemisphere over the last two thousand years, marking it nearly four degrees Celsius warmer than the coldest recorded summer in the same period. This finding highlights a stark contrast in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/death-valley-may-reach-the-hottest-temperature-ever-recorded-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature extremes</a> over the millennia.</p>



<p>While 2023 is recognized as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-event-may-push-earth-towards-its-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hottest year</a> on record, our reliance on instrumental records only dates back to approximately 1850, and even these are often geographically limited. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hottest-summer-since-the-peak-of-the-roman-empire-nbsp">Hottest summer since the peak of the Roman Empire&nbsp;</h2>



<p>A team of scientists from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> and <a href="https://www.uni-mainz.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz</a> has now extended this perspective by integrating data derived from tree rings, which chronicle climate changes annually and span two millennia.</p>



<p>Despite natural climate fluctuations over centuries, the summer of 2023 has set a new precedent, being the hottest since the peak of the Roman Empire, exceeding natural climate variability by half a degree Celsius.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>“When you look at the long sweep of history, you can see just how dramatic recent global warming is,” said Ulf Büntgen, an expert in dendroecology and paleoclimatology at Cambridge. “2023 was an exceptionally hot year, and this trend will continue unless we reduce<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> greenhouse gas emissions</a> dramatically.”</p>



<p>These findings also show that the thresholds set by the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aim to keep global warming below 1.5C above pre-industrial levels, have already been surpassed in the Northern Hemisphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-climate-patterns-nbsp">Historical climate patterns&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The scientists meticulously compared sparse and inconsistent early instrumental temperature records from 1850 to 1900 with extensive tree-ring data. This comparison not only provided a more comprehensive view of historical climate patterns but also led to the recalibration of the 19th-century temperature baseline, which is now understood to be several tenths of a degree Celsius cooler than previously estimated.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Consequently, the summer of 2023 in the Northern Hemisphere was found to be 2.07C warmer than the average temperatures between 1850 and 1900.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-better-perspective-on-climate-change-nbsp">A better perspective on climate change&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Many of the conversations we have around global warming are tied to a baseline temperature from the mid-19th century, but why is this the baseline? What is normal, in the context of a constantly-changing climate, when we’ve only got 150 years of meteorological measurements?” Büntgen said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Only when we look at climate reconstructions can we better account for natural variability and put recent anthropogenic climate change into context.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-rings-revealed-the-hottest-summer">Tree rings revealed the hottest summer</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-largest-ever-solar-storm-discovered-through-tree-rings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tree rings</a> are particularly valuable for this type of research, providing detailed and accurately dated records of past summer temperatures. These records indicate that most cooler periods in the last 2000 years followed major volcanic eruptions, like the one in 536 CE, which resulted in the coldest summer on record, being 3.93C colder than the summer of 2023. </p>



<p>In contrast, warmer periods are often linked to the El Niño climate pattern, which has been exacerbated by greenhouse gas emissions in recent decades, leading to stronger El Niño events and consequently hotter summers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longer-and-more-severe-heat-waves-nbsp">Longer and more severe heat waves&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“It’s true that the climate is always changing, but the warming in 2023, caused by greenhouse gasses, is additionally amplified by El Niño conditions, so we end up with longer and more severe heat waves and extended periods of drought,” said lead author Jan Esper, a professor of climate science at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“When you look at the big picture, it shows just how urgent it is that we reduce greenhouse gas emissions immediately.”</p>



<p>The scientists argued that while their results are robust for the Northern Hemisphere, it is more difficult to obtain global averages for the same period due to lack of data for the Southern Hemisphere. Moreover, the Southern Hemisphere also responds differently to global warming, since it is far more ocean-covered than the Northern Hemisphere.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07512-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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The summer of 2023 was the hottest in 2,000 years

According to a recent study, the summer of 2023 was...

<p>Recent findings from a global scientific review have cast a shadow over the effectiveness of market-based approaches to forest conservation. </p>



<p>Initiatives such as carbon offsets and deforestation-free certification schemes, while popular, appear to have made only limited progress in protecting forests and alleviating poverty. In some cases, these strategies have even exacerbated economic inequalities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Comprehensive forest conservation study</h2>



<p>The review, conducted by the <a href="https://www.iufro.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Union of Forest Research Organizations</a> (IUFRO), represents the most comprehensive examination of its kind in conservation. </p>



<p>The study draws on extensive academic research and fieldwork, encompassing the insights of 15,000 scientists across 120 countries. </p>



<p>The findings, presented at a high-level UN forum, underscore the urgent need for a reassessment of current conservation policies.</p>



<p>Maria Brockhaus, a contributing author from the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a>, emphasized the inadequacy of these market mechanisms. </p>



<p>"The evidence does not support the claim of win-wins or triple wins for environment, economy, and people," said Brockhaus. She noted that in regions where market-based policies have been prevalent for decades, poverty and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/declaring-an-area-protected-is-not-enough-to-prevent-forest-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest loss</a> remain persistent challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenges in market-based conservation</h2>



<p>The report underscores a concerning trend of complex and overlapping market schemes where financial actors and shareholders prioritize short-term profits over sustainable forest governance. </p>



<p>Constance McDermott, the lead author from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, pointed out the generally disappointing success rate. </p>



<p>Specific cases, such as a $120 million project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, benefited entrenched interests without addressing significant issues like logging by powerful businesses. </p>



<p>Similarly, in Malaysia, indigenous groups saw no benefits from a plantation venture promised to improve their livelihoods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unintended-consequences-and-global-policies">Unintended consequences and global policies</h2>



<p>The study also critiques green trade policies from affluent nations, such as the EU’s ban on imports linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-brands-fail-to-fight-against-deforestation-and-human-rights-violations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a>, intended as conservation measures. </p>



<p>While these policies may appear beneficial from a distance, they often fail to consider the adverse effects on local communities. </p>



<p>McDermott illustrated this by discussing the plight of farmers in Ghana, where - despite numerous sustainable and conservation initiatives - deforestation rates have increased, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/paying-farmers-conservation-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farmers</a>' earnings have decreased.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-carbon-markets">The future of carbon markets</h2>



<p>Despite the turbulence in current strategies, carbon markets are poised to expand into a multi-billion-dollar industry as corporations aim to meet net-zero climate targets through purchasing credits. </p>



<p>These credits often originate from projects in developing countries aimed at reducing emissions. However, there is growing concern about the actual benefits reaching the poor communities involved.</p>



<p>Kenya’s President William Ruto has even touted Africa's carbon sinks as an "unparalleled economic goldmine," though the distribution of these potential billions remains uncertain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Radical rethink of market-based conservation </h2>



<p>The review from IUFRO and the insights of scientists like Brockhaus and McDermott call for a "radical rethink" of how market-based approaches are employed. </p>



<p>Without addressing the broader economic and governance challenges associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protected-forests-offset-a-years-worth-of-global-fossil-fuel-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest management</a>, these market mechanisms alone cannot solve the intricate problems of deforestation and poverty. </p>



<p>As the evidence mounts, the global community may need to pivot towards more integrated and holistic approaches to conservation and economic development.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Market-based approaches to forest conservation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Market-based approaches to forest conservation involve economic strategies that incentivize the protection and sustainable management of forests. </p>



<p>These methods aim to align financial incentives with conservation goals, making it economically advantageous for stakeholders to preserve forest ecosystems rather than deplete them.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Carbon credits</h3>



<p>One common approach is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-carbon-credits-are-not-tied-to-forest-preservation-as-claimed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon credits</a>, where companies or governments pay for projects that reduce carbon emissions, such as reforestation or forest preservation, effectively turning carbon storage into a commodity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This not only provides financial support for conservation efforts but also helps combat climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ecosystem services&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Another method is payment for ecosystem services, which compensates landowners for managing their land in ways that maintain its ecological benefits. These services might include clean water, biodiversity, and carbon storage.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This approach gives economic value to the ecological functions of forests, encouraging landowners to maintain these landscapes rather than convert them for more destructive uses like agriculture or logging.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Eco-tourism&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Eco-tourism is also a significant market-driven conservation strategy, where revenue is generated by people visiting natural areas. </p>



<p>This revenue can provide a sustainable source of income for local communities and fund conservation efforts, making it financially viable for communities to keep forests intact rather than clear them for other types of development.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Certified forest products&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Trade in certified timber and non-timber forest products is another avenue. Certification schemes like the Forest Stewardship Council promote the responsible management of forests. </p>



<p>Products from certified forests are sold at premium prices, which can drive more sustainable practices in the forestry sector.</p>



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Market-based strategies fall short on forest conservation

Recent findings from a global scientific review have cast a...

<p>A recent study published by <a href="https://corp.oup.com/">Oxford University Press</a> highlights a disturbing trend in the health of coral reefs globally, underscoring the severe implications of climate change on ocean temperatures and circulation patterns.</p>



<p>Over the past year, these vital ecosystems have experienced unprecedented levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepest-known-coral-reef-bleaching-discovered-alarming-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching</a> and mortality, particularly around the Caribbean, the coasts of Mexico and Central America, and several Pacific islands including Kiribati and Fiji. </p>



<p>The data reveals a grim future, suggesting that coral reefs might soon vanish if current trends persist.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Record temperatures and coral reefs</h2>



<p>2023 has been a record-breaking year, witnessing the highest temperatures ever measured both on land and in the oceans. Particularly affected regions, like those around Jamaica, saw the most extreme daily air temperatures and prolonged periods of elevated sea surface temperatures. </p>



<p>These significant thermal anomalies have led to the most severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-coral-bleaching-event-is-now-underway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral bleaching</a> events recorded in the Northern Hemisphere to date. Given the trends observed, similar devastating impacts on coral reefs are anticipated for the Southern Hemisphere in early 2024.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closer-look-at-hotspots">Closer look at hotspots</h2>



<p>The researchers employed hotspot analysis to predict bleaching events, identifying areas where the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-substantially-changing-the-seasons-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface</a> temperature exceeded the average of the warmest month by more than one degree Celsius. </p>



<p>These findings were based on open-access ocean temperature data obtained from satellite observations, providing crucial insights into the patterns of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greater-temperature-changes-linked-to-worse-extinction-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature anomalies</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Spatial and temporal trends in 2023</h2>



<p>The research provided a detailed examination of the spatial and temporal distribution of coral bleaching hotspots over the course of 2023. It showed that major ocean currents underwent significant warming, indicative of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-could-speed-up-global-2c-temperature-rise-by-eight-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">accelerated heat</a> transport from tropical regions to the poles. </p>



<p>This warming is not only affecting sub-polar oceans but also contributing to the rapid melting of polar ice and increased stratification of ocean layers - critical elements of global warming not fully captured in current Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projections. </p>



<p>These changes pose significant threats to the health and survival of coral reefs globally.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-dire-warning-for-coral-reefs">A dire warning for coral reefs</h2>



<p>According to Thomas Goreau, the lead author of the study, the plight of coral reefs has been worsening since the 1980s, with high temperatures leading to widespread bleaching and death. </p>



<p>"Coral reefs, the most vulnerable of all ecosystems, began to bleach and die from high temperatures starting in the 1980s. Most coral around the world has been killed, and survivors can’t take more warming," Goreau explained. </p>



<p>He emphasized that the sudden spike in global temperatures during 2023 further jeopardizes these ecosystems, indicating that large-scale changes in ocean circulation are occurring, causing positive feedback that amplifies global warming effects not included in IPCC models.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-urgency-of-addressing-climate-change">The urgency of addressing climate change</h2>



<p>The findings of this research underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate climate change impacts. </p>



<p>As ocean temperatures continue to rise and disrupt natural processes, the survival of coral reefs and the overall health of marine environments are at stake. </p>



<p>This study serves as a crucial call to action, urging global efforts to understand and combat the underlying causes of climate change before it's too late for our planet's most delicate ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Coral reefs and rising temperatures&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Coral reefs are vibrant underwater ecosystems, often referred to as the rainforests of the sea due to their rich biodiversity. </p>



<p>These delicate structures are built by colonies of tiny animals called coral polyps, which form symbiotic relationships with algae known as zooxanthellae. The algae provide corals with food through photosynthesis and contribute to their vibrant colors.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental changes</h3>



<p>However, coral reefs are extremely sensitive to changes in their environment, particularly to rising ocean temperatures. </p>



<p>As temperatures increase, corals experience stress, which leads to bleaching. This occurs when the stressed corals expel the zooxanthellae, losing their color and main source of food. </p>



<p>Bleaching can cause widespread die-offs. Even when corals survive a bleaching event, they are more susceptible to disease and death.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Profound impacts</h3>



<p>The impact of rising temperatures on coral reefs is profound. Reefs protect coastal areas from storm surge and erosion, support fishing industries, and are hotspots for marine biodiversity. Their decline affects not only the marine species that depend on them but also the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/oocc/article/4/1/kgae005/7666987" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford Open Climate Change</a></em>.</p>



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Coral reefs could vanish if temperatures continue to rise

A recent study published by Oxford University Press highlights a...

<p>In a significant shift, Japan’s Fisheries Agency has proposed the inclusion of fin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-alarming-decline-and-hopeful-recovery-of-fin-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> in its commercial whaling activities - a move that extends beyond the current catch of three smaller whale species. </p>



<p>This announcement marks another step in the country's contentious journey with whaling, particularly since resuming commercial operations within its exclusive economic zone after exiting the International Whaling Commission in 2019.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A tradition revisited</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/japan-commercial-whaling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Commercial whaling</a> resumed after Japan withdrew from international oversight, ending three decades of what was termed "research whaling." This practice was heavily criticized by global conservation communities, condemned as a guise for commercial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-whaling-wiped-two-species-of-whales-in-the-eastern-atlantic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whaling</a>, which had been prohibited since 1988. </p>



<p>Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized the cultural significance of whaling in Japan. "Whales are an important food resource and we believe they should be sustainably utilized just like any other marine resources, based on scientific evidence. It is also important to carry on Japan's traditional food culture."</p>



<p>The Fisheries Agency is now soliciting public feedback on this proposal until June 5, aiming for approval in the mid-June review meeting. </p>



<p>According to the agency, extensive stock surveys have indicated a sufficient recovery of the fin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fin-whales-are-finally-rebounding-in-the-antarctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale population</a> in the North Pacific, supporting the case for their inclusion in commercial whaling quotas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-the-proposal">Implications of the proposal</h2>



<p>Despite the inclusion of fin whales, Japan's agency emphasized that this expansion is not aimed at significantly increasing the supply of whale meat. Additionally, whalers targeting fin whales will not be subject to a specific quota.</p>



<p>For context, the quota for the other three species this year is set at 379, following a year in which only 294 whales were caught. </p>



<p>This catch is well below the allocated quota and much less than the numbers previously harvested in Antarctic and northwestern Pacific operations under the guise of research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-economic-perspectives">Cultural and economic perspectives</h2>



<p>The evolution of Japan's relationship with whale meat has been marked by necessity and cultural shifts. Post-World War II, whale meat was a critical, affordable protein source, with consumption peaking at 233,000 tons in 1962. </p>



<p>However, as other meats became available, whale meat’s popularity waned, with recent consumption dwindling to approximately 2,000 tons per year. </p>



<p>Despite this decline, some local voices, like Hideyuki Saito from Saitama, express a desire for a resurgence in popularity. "I want more people to appreciate the taste of whale," said Saito.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Global reactions to fin whale hunting</h2>



<p>Internationally, the practice of whaling, particularly the inclusion of fin whales, remains highly controversial. </p>



<p>For instance, Shirley Bosworth from Australia opposes whaling, highlighting the need for protection of these majestic creatures, which are often helped back to sea by communities when beached on Australian shores. </p>



<p>On the innovation front, <a href="https://www.kyodo-senpaku.co.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyodo Senpaku Co.</a>, a leading whaling company, has introduced whale meat vending machines and recently unveiled a new mother ship costing 7.5 billion yen, promising a commitment to sustainable whaling practices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The future of fin whale hunting in Japan</h2>



<p>As Japan navigates the complexities of cultural heritage and global conservation efforts, the balance between traditional practices and ecological sustainability continues to be a pivotal challenge. </p>



<p>The proposal by the Fisheries Agency to include fin whales reflects a nation’s attempt to honor its past while engaging with the present - a conversation that remains as dynamic as the seas from which these debates have sprung.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about fin whales&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Fin whales are the second-largest species of whale, closely following the blue whale in size. They can reach lengths of up to 85 feet and are known for their incredible speed and agility in the water, earning them the nickname "the greyhound of the sea."&nbsp;</p>



<p>These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-whales-contribute-to-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> have a distinctive asymmetrical head coloring, with the right lower jaw being bright white and the left side dark. They are baleen whales, using their fringed plates to filter small fish, squid, and krill from the ocean.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Found throughout the world's oceans, from polar to tropical waters, fin whales prefer deep, offshore environments. Despite their vast range, they are listed as vulnerable due to past whaling practices which drastically reduced their numbers.&nbsp;</p>



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Japan seeks to include fin whales in commercial hunts

In a significant shift, Japan’s Fisheries Agency has proposed 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=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"><strong>Invisible threat in urban air</strong></h2>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>These findings, published in <em><a href="https://www.neurology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a></em>, 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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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."</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>Published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/geology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a></em>, 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.</p>



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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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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<p>—–</p>

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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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%.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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>.</p>



<p id="block-9bd989d6-2fd3-4580-957f-6cacce134f08">-----</p>



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<p id="block-43e218f4-0391-477c-8396-eb777c8c80a3">Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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



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

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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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



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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...

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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>



<p>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?</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>Sources:</strong> <em>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.</em></p>



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



<p><strong>1. Is acid rain completely gone?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>2. How long did solving take?</strong> 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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>5. Could acid rain return?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"?</strong> 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></p>



<p>-----</p>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
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<p>A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. </p>



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

<p>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. </p>



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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).</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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>.</p>

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>“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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>“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;</p>



<p>“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.”</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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. </p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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.”</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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



<p>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."</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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<p>Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>“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.”</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>“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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ESA</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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. </p>



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



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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