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 <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> led work that tied laboratory confirmed Salmonella cases to local weather conditions using a transparent statistical approach.



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.



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



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. 



They examined 14 factors, including temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, sunshine, and dewpoint temperature.



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. 



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



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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>.



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>.



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



“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;



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



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



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.



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



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



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



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.



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.



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



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



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.



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.



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



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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...

Protesters,Holding,Signs,With,Slogans,There's,No,Planet,B,And

Despite deeply entrenched differences in beliefs about climate change, both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/there-are-gaping-divisions-in-americans-views-on-the-climate-debate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liberals and conservatives</a> exhibit a surprising readiness to engage in climate actions. 



This striking conclusion comes from a global experiment that involved 50,000 participants from various countries, including the United States, China, and Germany. 



The study was led by researchers from <a href="https://www.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York University</a>, whose findings challenge the traditional narrative of ideological deadlock on environmental issues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-actions-speak-louder-than-beliefs">Actions speak louder than beliefs</h2>



The research reveals a nuanced picture: while political beliefs about climate change differ sharply, these do not necessarily prevent meaningful action. 



In the experiment, conservatives - despite their skeptical views on climate change - participated in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-vast-majority-of-americans-support-climate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> actions at levels comparable to their liberal counterparts. 



This phenomenon suggests that conservatives are willing to act against climate change, and not because their beliefs align with the liberal perspective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effective-messaging-for-climate-belief">Effective messaging for climate belief </h2>



The researchers also explored how different messages influence the beliefs and policy support among both political groups. 



Various interventions were tested, from emphasizing the scientific consensus on climate change to asking participants to write letters to future generations about the climate actions they are taking to secure a livable planet. 



Interestingly, while some messages like emphasizing scientific consensus did not sway conservatives beliefs, others (particularly those involving personal or future-focused narratives) increased engagement on climate actions across the board.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Proactive climate actions</h2>



The researchers found that the effectiveness of climate action interventions varies significantly depending on the audience. For instance, presenting climate actions as responses to a widely recognized crisis might alienate conservatives. 



Conversely, framing these actions within an ideological framework that resonates with conservative values can enhance engagement. 



A key finding was that informing conservatives of broad concern about climate change actually decreased their likelihood of participating in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-planting-campaigns-fall-short-of-successful-reforestation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree-planting</a> efforts. 



This emphasizes the importance of crafting messages that resonate with specific ideological groups to encourage proactive climate actions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-engagement-and-polarization">Global engagement and polarization</h2>



The expansive scope of this experiment sheds light on global attitudes towards climate change. It confirmed a stark <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/politicians-extreme-fueling-polarization/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polarization</a> in beliefs and policy support: liberals across the world are more likely to believe in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human-caused climate change</a> and support relevant policies compared to conservatives. 



However, the silver lining is that irrespective of these beliefs, there is a shared willingness to take action among both groups, suggesting a common ground that can be built upon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Path forward</h2>



The results of this research are invaluable for policymakers and climate activists who are trying to overcome deep-seated ideological differences. 



By identifying which strategies effectively reach across political lines, they can develop more effective ways to increase participation and promote unified actions against climate change.



The research instills a sense of hope, highlighting the capacity for collective efforts to address significant global issues. It demonstrates that, despite strong partisan beliefs regarding climate change, there is a broad-based willingness to take constructive actions. This transcends political boundaries, presenting a rare chance for building consensus and engaging in cooperative endeavors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">International views on climate action</h2>



International views on climate action are diverse, shaped by each country's unique environmental, economic, and political contexts.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Developed countries&nbsp;</h3>



Developed nations often lead in advocating for stringent climate policies, driven by a combination of environmental awareness, technological capacity, and international pressure. These countries typically focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing renewable energy usage, and investing in sustainable technologies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Developing countries</h3>



Developing countries, while increasingly acknowledging the importance of climate action, face more complex challenges. Many are dealing with immediate issues like poverty and development, which can make costly climate initiatives less of a priority.&nbsp;



However, they are also among the most vulnerable to climate impacts, which drives their interest in global climate agreements like the Paris Agreement.&nbsp;



These nations often call for more support from developed countries in terms of funding, technology transfer, and capacity building to help them mitigate and adapt to climate changes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Emerging economies&nbsp;</h3>



Emerging economies, such as China and India, play critical roles due to their large populations and rapid industrial growth. These countries have made significant commitments to reduce carbon intensity but often emphasize the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities."&nbsp;



This principle acknowledges that while all nations must participate in climate action, developed nations have a greater responsibility due to their historical emissions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Local climate initiatives&nbsp;</h3>



There is also a growing recognition of the role of non-state actors, including cities, regions, and corporations, in driving climate action. These entities often undertake ambitious climate initiatives that exceed national policies, especially in countries where national leadership on climate change is lacking.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Climate diplomacy&nbsp;</h3>



Internationally, climate diplomacy is increasingly central, with countries leveraging their contributions to global climate action as part of their international influence and leadership.&nbsp;



The global dialogue continues to evolve, often pivoting around major international meetings like the United Nations Climate Change Conferences, where negotiations reflect the complex interplay of global equity, economic development, and environmental preservation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-48112-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Conservatives and liberals unite on climate action despite different beliefs

Despite deeply entrenched differences in beliefs about climate change, both...

Sleep, that elusive yet essential state, continues to fascinate scientists and the general public alike. With research underscoring its crucial role in everything from heart health to cognitive function, the pursuit of quality sleep has never been more pressing. Enter an unlikely hero: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-is-beneficial-for-physical-and-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gardening</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-deprivation-epidemic">Sleep deprivation epidemic</h2>



In our modern, hyper-connected world, the relentless pace of life and constant barrage of digital stimuli have created an environment where quality sleep is often sacrificed. 



Smartphones, tablets, and laptops beckon us with endless entertainment, social media updates, and work emails, making it difficult to disconnect and wind down before bed. 



The blue light emitted by these devices further disrupts our natural sleep-wake cycle by suppressing the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep.



Studies have consistently shown that a significant proportion of adults, particularly those in industrialized nations, regularly fail to meet the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep per night. This chronic sleep deprivation, accumulating over time, has dire consequences for both physical and mental well-being. 



Research has linked insufficient sleep to a heightened risk of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even certain types of cancer. 



Additionally, sleep deprivation impairs cognitive function, hindering memory, attention span, decision-making abilities, and creativity. It can also lead to mood swings, irritability, and an increased risk of developing mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-therapeutic-power-of-gardening-for-sleep">Therapeutic power of gardening for sleep</h2>



While pharmaceuticals and sleep aids offer temporary relief for some, an emerging body of research suggests that a more natural solution might be found in the soil. 



A recent study has revealed a compelling association between gardening and improved sleep quality.



“According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://sph.fudan.edu.cn/employee/158" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Activity Guideline for Americans</a>&nbsp;(2nd edition), gardening is a muscle-strengthening and multicomponent physical activity with one of the lowest injury risks, which is appropriate and recommended for older adults,” said study author&nbsp;<a href="https://sph.fudan.edu.cn/employee/158">Xiang Gao</a>, a dean and distinguished professor at <a href="https://www.fudan.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fudan University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-between-gardening-and-sleep">Connection between gardening and sleep</h2>



In their quest to understand the potential connection between gardening and sleep, the researchers turned to the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a comprehensive health survey conducted annually across the United States. 



This vast dataset provided them with a unique opportunity to analyze responses from over 62,000 adults, offering a wide range of demographic, lifestyle, and health information.



By meticulously comparing individuals who engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-can-improve-your-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gardening</a> activities to those who did not exercise at all (non-exercisers) and those who participated in other forms of exercise, the researchers were able to isolate the specific impact of gardening on sleep patterns. 



This approach allowed them to account for potential confounding factors and determine whether gardening had a unique association with sleep quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-benefits-for-sleep">Unique benefits for sleep</h2>



The results of this analysis were striking. Gardeners consistently reported significantly fewer sleep complaints compared to both non-exercisers and individuals engaged in other forms of exercise. 



This finding suggests that gardening may offer unique benefits for sleep that go beyond the general positive effects associated with physical activity.



Furthermore, the researchers observed a dose-dependent relationship between gardening and sleep quality. Individuals who spent more time gardening reported even fewer sleep complaints, indicating that the benefits of gardening for sleep may increase with greater engagement in this activity. 



This observation opens up intriguing possibilities for using gardening as a potential therapeutic intervention for sleep disorders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-blooming-field-of-possibilities">A blooming field of possibilities</h2>



While this study offers tantalizing clues, it's just the tip of the iceberg. Scientists are eager to uncover the precise mechanisms behind gardening's sleep-enhancing effects. Several potential factors are under investigation:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Physical activity</h3>



Gardening is not just a leisure activity; it's a form of exercise that involves various physical movements. Activities like digging, weeding, planting, and harvesting require the use of multiple muscle groups, from arms to legs, contributing to overall physical fitness. 



Regular physical activity, such as gardening, enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves flexibility. These physical benefits are crucial as they are directly linked to better sleep quality. 



Engaging in such activities helps tire the body in a healthy way, leading to more restful and deeper sleep cycles.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sunlight exposure</h3>



Gardening typically requires spending significant time outdoors, which naturally increases exposure to sunlight. This exposure is essential for regulating our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural clock that dictates sleep patterns. 



Sunlight helps maintain a healthy circadian rhythm by influencing the production of melatonin, a hormone that induces sleep. The more aligned our circadian rhythm is, the better our chances of falling asleep at the right time and enjoying uninterrupted sleep.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stress reduction</h3>



The tranquil nature of gardening activities, from tending to plants to touching the soil, can significantly reduce levels of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone. 



High cortisol levels can interfere with sleep by keeping the body in a heightened state of alertness or anxiety. Gardening helps mitigate this by fostering a calming environment, allowing individuals to relax both physically and mentally. 



This reduction in stress creates a more conducive atmosphere for sleep, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mindfulness and connection with nature</h3>



Gardening offers a unique opportunity to engage in mindfulness through close interaction with the natural environment. The focus required in nurturing plants, observing their growth, and connecting with the earth can significantly reduce mental clutter and daily worries. 



The practice of mindfulness and increased connection with nature can lead to a decrease in rumination - the repetitive, often negative, thinking that can disrupt sleep - and promote a more peaceful mind that is ready for sleep.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sense of accomplishment</h3>



Gardening produces visible and tangible results, whether it's the growth of new plants, the blossoming of flowers, or the harvest of fruits and vegetables. These outcomes provide a significant sense of accomplishment and can boost self-esteem. 



Achieving goals and witnessing the fruits of one's labor can offer emotional satisfaction and joy, which contribute to a positive state of mind at bedtime. Feeling good about one's achievements during the day can ease the transition into sleep, making it more likely to enjoy a restful night.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-gardener-s-guide-to-nurturing-your-sleep">A gardener's guide to nurturing your sleep</h2>



Eager to cultivate your own sleep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-hacks-social-media/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">garden</a>? Here are a few tips to get you started:



<ul>
<li>Choose the right plants:&nbsp;Opt for fragrant herbs like lavender,&nbsp;chamomile,&nbsp;or jasmine,&nbsp;known for their calming properties.</li>



<li>Create a sensory haven:&nbsp;Incorporate elements that engage all the senses,&nbsp;such as wind chimes,&nbsp;soft lighting,&nbsp;and comfortable seating.</li>



<li>Garden mindfully:&nbsp;Focus on the present moment,&nbsp;noticing the feel of the soil,&nbsp;the scent of the flowers,&nbsp;and the sounds of nature.</li>



<li>Keep a garden journal:&nbsp;Record your observations,&nbsp;thoughts,&nbsp;and feelings,&nbsp;allowing yourself to reflect and de-stress.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-sleep-the-bountiful-harvest-of-gardening">Beyond sleep: The bountiful harvest of gardening</h2>



The potential benefits of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-got-a-major-boost-from-the-covid-19-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gardening</a> don't stop at sleep. Ongoing research by Gao and his team suggests that gardening may also protect against cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. 



This underscores the interconnectedness of our physical, mental, and emotional health and the profound impact that simple activities like gardening can have.



As scientists continue to delve into the multifaceted relationship between gardening and well-being, we can expect to see even more evidence supporting its therapeutic potential. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most effective remedies are not found in a bottle, but in the natural world around us.



Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice with a budding interest, consider adding this fulfilling activity to your routine. Not only will you reap the rewards of fresh produce and a beautiful landscape, but you might also cultivate a healthier mind, body, and, most importantly, a more restful night's sleep.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032724005263" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Affective Disorders</a>.



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Gardening significantly improves sleep quality in adults

Sleep, that elusive yet essential state, continues to fascinate scientists...

Isopoda,"powder,Red",On,Wood.,Isopoda,Is,An,Order,Of

Recent research into the eating habits of desert isopods reveals how these small creatures make complex choices about what they eat, which in turn affects their survival and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-secret-love-lives-of-woodlice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems they inhabit</a>. 



This study provides valuable insights into the subtle dynamics of food selection in harsh environments and highlights the role of isopods in maintaining ecological balance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutritional-insights-into-desert-isopods">Nutritional insights into desert isopods</h2>



The research was led by Dr. Moshe Zaguri under the mentorship of Prof. Dror Hawlena at the <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hebrew University</a>, with collaboration from Prof. David Raubenheimer at the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a>. 



Their findings, published in Ecology Letters, examine the multifaceted factors influencing the dietary decisions of the desert isopods, known scientifically as Hemilepistus reaumuri.



These creatures primarily consume dry plant leaves and a nutritionally sparse yet crucial component called biological soil crust (BSC). BSC is the upper layer of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-microbes-survive-the-desert-by-sleeping-through-the-dry-spells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desert soils</a>, teeming with microorganisms vital for the isopods' diet. 



The study focused on how isopods manage their intake of proteins, sugars, and particularly calcium, which is essential for building their exoskeletons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrient-regulation-and-food-choices">Nutrient regulation and food choices</h2>



The researchers found that desert isopods are adept at adjusting their diet to maintain an optimal balance of nutrients. They typically obtain most of their proteins and sugars from dry leaves, but turn to soil crust to meet their significant calcium needs.



Interestingly, a notable twist in the research involved adding artificial calcium sources to the leaf litter. While this approach fulfilled the isopods' calcium requirements, it unexpectedly led to stunted growth.



Additionally, further experiments used gamma-radiation to sterilize the soil crust, which preserved its nutritional content but eradicated the microorganisms. 



Isopods feeding on this sterilized crust displayed different growth patterns and lower assimilation efficiencies than those consuming live <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-organisms-manage-water-in-the-worlds-driest-places/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological soil crust</a> (BSC).



These findings indicate that the live microorganisms within the BSC are essential for helping isopods efficiently digest the fibrous plant material.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-preferences-of-desert-isopods">Surprising preferences of desert isopods</h2>



Field observations and lab tests showed that contrary to expectations, isopods preferred the macronutrient-poor BSC over richer plant litter, consuming it three times as much. 



Even when the calcium intake was the same, isopods thrived better on natural BSC than on artificial diets. When consuming gamma-radiation sterilized BSC, the isopods increased their consumption but grew more slowly, further underscoring the importance of live microorganisms in their diet.



"Our findings underscore the complexity of dietary decision-making among desert isopods and highlight the importance of considering multifaceted factors in understanding trophic interactions," Dr. Zaguri highlighted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desert-isopods-as-key-players-in-ecosystem-management">Desert isopods as key players in ecosystem management</h2>



Understanding how desert isopods select their food and regulate their nutrient intake sheds light on broader ecological dynamics.



These insights are crucial for ecosystem management and conservation, suggesting that maintaining the natural balance of microorganisms in soil crusts could be key to supporting healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-desert-plants-are-not-immune-to-climate-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desert ecosystems</a>.



This research highlights the deep interconnectedness between organisms and their environments, underscoring its implications for the management and conservation of fragile ecosystems. 



It reveals how the dietary choices of desert isopods affect their survival and the overall health of their habitat. By understanding these relationships, conservation strategies can be better tailored to preserve these delicate ecological systems.



The findings also open the door for more interdisciplinary studies that aim to dissect the complex interactions influencing dietary behaviors and ecosystem health. 



This future research will further elucidate how various environmental and biological factors interplay to shape the dynamics within ecosystems. 



Such studies are crucial for developing more effective conservation practices and for fostering a deeper understanding of ecological balance.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://datadryad.org/stash/dataset/doi:10.5061/dryad.tdz08kq57" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology letters</a>.



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-----

Desert isopods balance their diets to boost ecosystem health

Recent research into the eating habits of desert isopods reveals...

Plastic,Garbage,On,The,Mountain,River,Bank

The sight of plastic pollution in rivers is unfortunately all too familiar. Images of bottles bobbing along the surface or plastic bags snagged on branches are emblematic of a growing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-interlinked-crisis-of-plastic-pollution-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental crisis</a>. However, the problem runs much deeper -- literally. 



A significant portion of plastic pollution in our rivers is invisible to the naked eye, consisting of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-plastic-pollution-has-become-a-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics and fragments</a> that sink beneath the surface. 



This hidden reality has significant implications for our understanding of the problem and our ability to address it effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-and-nanoplastics-lurking-below">Microplastics and nanoplastics lurking below</h2>



While larger plastic items like bottles and bags are easily visible and recognizable as pollutants, the majority of plastic pollution consists of less conspicuous forms. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-discovered-in-every-human-placenta-tested-after-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a>, tiny particles less than 5 millimeters in size, are a major contributor to this problem. 



These particles originate from various sources, including the degradation of larger plastic debris over time, microbeads intentionally added to personal care products, and fibers shed from synthetic clothing during laundry. 



Due to their small size, microplastics often evade detection and can be easily ingested by aquatic organisms, accumulating within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/contamination-crisis-microplastics-found-in-88-of-protein-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food chain</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-larger-plastic-debris-sinks-to-river-bottoms">Larger plastic debris sinks to river bottoms</h2>



Larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-production-increases-create-identical-plastic-pollution-increase/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic items</a> can also become submerged, posing a hidden threat to aquatic ecosystems. This occurs due to several factors. 



The density of the plastic material itself plays a role, with denser plastics sinking more readily. The shape of the object also influences its buoyancy, as irregular shapes can trap air and temporarily prevent sinking. 



Additionally, the presence of biofilms can significantly alter the fate of plastic debris. Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that can colonize plastic surfaces, increasing their weight and causing them to sink. 



Once submerged, these plastics can interact with the benthic environment, potentially impacting sediment composition, oxygen levels, and the organisms inhabiting the riverbed. 



Furthermore, submerged plastics can leach harmful chemicals into the water, further compromising water quality and ecological balance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-pollution-in-rivers">Plastic pollution in rivers</h2>



A study led by James Lofty, a Ph.D. researcher at Cardiff University's <a href="https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/engineering" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Engineering</a>, has shed new light on the behavior of sinking plastics in rivers. 



Lofty and his team conducted a series of experiments in which they released over 3,000 plastic items into large water channels designed to simulate real-world river conditions.



Using high-resolution cameras, they tracked the movement of these plastics, uncovering surprising findings. Contrary to previous assumptions, plastic fragments don't always sink in a uniform manner. 



Their orientation can change as they descend, significantly impacting their sinking speed and ultimately their distribution within the river.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
"In our study, we demonstrate how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-kills-ocean-embryos-during-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastics</a> sink in different orientations. This significantly changes how fast a particle sinks. Previously it was thought that plastics always find a stable sinking orientation and therefore sink at a constant speed," explained Mr. Lofty.



"However, we've shown this is not the case for plastics which are fragmented and fractured. This is important, as the sinking rate of a plastic particle is essential for understanding its transport. This finding significantly changes our understanding of how plastics move in rivers," Lofty continued.
</blockquote>



This new understanding has far-reaching implications for how we quantify and manage plastic pollution in our waterways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-rivers-invisible-plastic-pollution">Tracking rivers invisible plastic pollution</h2>



The research team leveraged their experimental findings to advance their understanding of plastic pollution dynamics in rivers. 



They integrated their newly acquired knowledge about the varying sinking behaviors of different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-plastic-river-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic types</a> into established physics-based equations that were initially designed for sediment transport prediction. 



This integration involved adapting the equations to account for the unique characteristics of plastic debris, such as its density, shape, and size distribution. 



By incorporating these plastic-specific parameters, the researchers developed a refined model that can quantify the transport and distribution of submerged plastic pollution in rivers with a high degree of accuracy. 



This model offers a valuable tool for assessing the extent of plastic pollution in aquatic environments and informing targeted mitigation strategies. "Our method can be used in any river on account of it using this very well-known equation also used for sediments," noted Mr. Lofty.



This innovative approach overcomes the limitations of previous methods, such as underwater cameras and sonar, which are impractical for widespread use in rivers.



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



The study's findings underscore the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to tackling plastic pollution. We can no longer focus solely on the visible debris floating on the surface. The invisible plastics lurking beneath demand our attention as well.



By understanding the full scope of the problem, we can develop more targeted and effective solutions. This includes not only cleaning up existing pollution but also preventing more plastic from entering our rivers in the first place. 



This will require a multi-pronged approach, encompassing everything from improved waste management practices to innovative materials and technologies that reduce our reliance on single-use plastics.



The research by Lofty and his team is a crucial step in this ongoing battle. By unveiling the hidden world of sinking plastics, they have empowered us with the knowledge and tools we need to protect our rivers and the delicate ecosystems they support.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0043135424002082?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Water Research</a>.



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Major plastic pollution lurks beneath the surface of rivers

The sight of plastic pollution in rivers is unfortunately all...

The Amazon rainforest, often hailed as the "lungs of the Earth," is facing a dire threat from an unexpected source: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-wildfire-years-are-just-getting-started/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> raging through its untouched, old-growth forests. Despite a decrease in deforestation rates in 2023, a new <a href="https://terrabrasilis.dpi.inpe.br/queimadas/situacao-atual/estatisticas/estatisticas_estados/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survey</a> reveals a staggering 152% increase in these devastating fires compared to the previous year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paradoxical-problem-of-amazon-wildfire">Paradoxical problem of Amazon wildfire</h2>



While deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon has decreased, the escalating threat of wildfires presents a significant and multifaceted obstacle. This situation challenges the region's environmental well-being, highlighting the complexity of maintaining ecosystem health amid changing climate conditions.



The sharp increase in wildfires is particularly alarming as it predominantly affects untouched, old-growth forests. These areas have historically been spared from such extensive destruction. This represents a significant and worrying shift in the ecological balance of the region. Such changes threaten the stability and health of these critical ecosystems, which have long been preserved.



A comprehensive study, utilizing detailed satellite imagery analysis, revealed a staggering increase in forest wildfires from 13,477 in 2022 to 34,012 in 2023. This dramatic surge is primarily attributed to the prolonged drought conditions plaguing the region, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental factors and the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the complex interplay of deforestation, drought, and fire. 



The escalating frequency and intensity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-on-warming-planet-requires-adaptive-capacity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> not only threaten the Amazon's biodiversity and carbon storage capacity but also jeopardize the livelihoods of local communities and indigenous populations who depend on the forest for their sustenance and cultural heritage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drought-and-the-domino-effect">Drought and the domino effect</h2>



The Amazon region has been grappling with increasingly frequent and prolonged dry spells. Past droughts in 2010 and 2015-16 had already left the forest more susceptible to fire, causing fragmentation of the plant cover. The ongoing drought, which began last year, has only exacerbated this vulnerability.



"Climate change is a key driver of the increase in forest fires, and El Niño has also added risk owing to its links with the prolonged drought in the region," noted IBAMA/PREVFOGO, the National Center for Forest Fire Fighting and Prevention.



The first three months of 2023 alone witnessed 7,861 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-in-siberia-are-a-growing-global-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> in the Amazon, surpassing the figures for any of the previous eight years. This disturbing trend highlights the urgency of the situation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-wildfire-s-fiery-footprint">Amazon wildfire's fiery footprint</h2>



The geographical distribution of these fires is a critical factor in understanding their impact and devising appropriate responses. 



“It’s important to understand the geographic pattern of these fires. Each of the areas concerned requires a different response. Our analysis pointed to more fires in old-growth forest areas than in previous years, which is alarming not just because of the loss of vegetation, which is invariably followed by deforestation, but also because the carbon stored by the forest becomes carbon emissions when it burns,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://bv.fapesp.br/en/pesquisador/708951/guilherme-augusto-verola-mataveli" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guilherme Augusto Verola Mataveli</a>, corresponding author of the article and a remote sensing specialist with INPE’s Earth Observation and Geoinformatics Division.



The research highlights a worrisome trend of increased fire activity within the Amazon's old-growth forests. These ancient, untouched ecosystems are particularly susceptible to the detrimental impacts of wildfires due to their significant carbon storage capacity. 



When forests in the Amazon burn, they release large amounts of stored carbon into the atmosphere. This release significantly contributes to the climate crisis by increasing greenhouse gas emissions. The frequent occurrence of these wildfires poses a serious threat to the Amazon's unique biodiversity and ecological balance. Additionally, it exacerbates the global challenge of addressing and mitigating the effects of climate change.



"Old-growth forest stores larger amounts of carbon, which becomes greenhouse gas emissions when it burns, contributing to climate change," said Mataveli. "Another negative effect relates to public health problems. In October 2023, Manaus [the capital of Amazonas state] had the worst air quality of any city in the world bar one."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effects-and-dire-consequences">Ripple effects and dire consequences</h2>



The repercussions of wildfires in old-growth forests extend far beyond the immediate loss of vegetation and carbon emissions. The fires also weaken the forest's resilience by impairing its ability to maintain a humid microclimate that is crucial for its survival.



The microclimate under the forest canopy helps to contain and recycle moisture throughout the ecosystem. When this climate diminishes, it compromises the health and sustainability of the forest.



Furthermore, the escalating threat of wildfires poses challenges for traditional subsistence farmers who rely on controlled burns as a land management practice. The uncontrolled spread of fire disrupts their livelihoods and threatens their way of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-s-future-a-call-for-urgent-action">Amazon's future: A call for urgent action</h2>



The escalating crisis in the Amazon calls for immediate and concerted action. Researchers involved in the study stress the need for a multifaceted approach, including increased command-and-control operations, better-equipped fire brigades, and continuous improvement of monitoring systems.



 "The Amazon is becoming more vulnerable environmentally, socially and economically as time passes without effective solutions to the fire problem," said Luiz Aragão, the leader of the research group.



As the Amazon burns, the fate of this invaluable ecosystem hangs in the balance, and the consequences of inaction are too dire to contemplate. The time to act is now, before the flames consume the very lungs of our planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.17202" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Wildfires in old-growth Amazon forests increased by 152% in 2023

The Amazon rainforest, often hailed as the "lungs of the...

Microrobots are at the forefront of addressing a significant environmental challenge. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-pose-a-greater-threat-to-some-ocean-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> - tiny fragments measuring 5 millimeters or less - not only contaminate our oceans and waterways but also pose substantial threats to wildlife and human health. 



In a new study from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Chemical Society</a>, researchers have pioneered the use of innovative microrobots designed to tackle and effectively manage microplastic pollution.



“These particles are pervasive in aquatic environments, posing ecological risks due to their potential ingestion by marine organisms and the subsequent entry to the food chain, possibly impacting marine ecosystems and human health,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coexistence-of-bacteria-and-microplastics">Coexistence of bacteria and microplastics</h2>



Originating from decomposed consumer products like old food packaging and children's toys, microplastics break down and attract harmful bacteria, including disease-causing pathogens. This complicates the cleanup process and intensifies the pollution problem.



“The coexistence of bacteria and microplastics complicates the task of their complete removal, exacerbating their impacts and posing a compounded threat to the environment and human well-being,” wrote the researchers.



“Despite the most recent advancements, the complex challenge of concurrently addressing the presence of free-swimming bacteria and microplastics remains largely unexplored, and ideas to reduce or prevent their interaction are yet to be discussed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harnessing-the-power-of-microrobots">Harnessing the power of microrobots</h2>



Under the guidance of Martin Pumera and his team, the creation of these microrobots marks a significant breakthrough in environmental technology. The team engineered the robots by fusing magnetic microparticles with positively charged polymer strands. 



These polymers, emanating from the microparticles' surface, allow the robots to attract both microplastics and microbial contaminants effectively. Remarkably, each microrobot is minuscule, measuring only 2.8 micrometers in diameter.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="hX9y3m3klT-3611156-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Swarm dynamics and functionality of microrobots</h2>



What's captivating about these microrobots is their swarming capability. When exposed to a rotating magnetic field, the robots cluster together in a manner similar to schools of fish. 



The swarming behavior can be manipulated by varying the number of robots, which in turn affects the swarm's movement and speed. This innovative method was demonstrated in a video by the researchers, emphasizing the robots' efficiency in cleaning water.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-field-testing-and-results">Field testing and results</h2>



The practical application of these microrobots was evaluated in a controlled laboratory environment. The team introduced fluorescent polystyrene beads and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, which are known to cause infections such as pneumonia, into a water tank. 



After adding the microrobots to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-spread-insects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contaminated water</a> and activating them with a rotating magnetic field, the results were encouraging. At a concentration of 7.5 milligrams per milliliter, the robots successfully captured about 80% of the bacteria. 



Furthermore, the amount of microplastics in the water significantly decreased over time as they were drawn to the swarming robots.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reusability-and-sustainability">Reusability and sustainability</h2>



Following the capture of microplastics and bacteria, the microrobots were collected using a permanent magnet. 



The contaminants attached to the robots were then removed using ultrasound and exposed to ultraviolet radiation to ensure thorough disinfection. Remarkably, these cleaned microrobots could be reused. 



Although they captured slightly lesser amounts during subsequent uses, their ability to be recycled highlights the sustainable potential of this technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The future of microrobots in environmental cleanup</h2>



This microrobotic system offers a promising avenue for mitigating the impacts of plastic and bacterial pollution in water bodies. 



According to the study authors, the technology not only addresses current environmental challenges but also opens up new possibilities for future advancements in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-robotic-fish-developed-to-collect-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robotic</a> environmental cleaning solutions. 



“In summary, this multifaceted experiment demonstrated the ability of the self-propelled rotating microrobotic planes to capture bacterial contaminants and microplastics from water,” noted the researchers.



“The integration of qualitative and quantitative assessments emphasizes their robust performance and potential as materials for treating various environmental pollutants simultaneously.”



“This approach can stimulate the development of more sophisticated materials, including hybrid systems capable of capturing both positively and negatively charged contaminants at the same time. This is especially attractive for real-world water purification applications where contaminated water samples usually contain several types of pollutants.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsnano.4c02115" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Nano</a>.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society



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Microrobots tested as clean-up crew for polluted waters

Microrobots are at the forefront of addressing a significant environmental...

Clean,Hydrogen,Energy,Concept.,Environment.,Eco-friendly,Industry.,And,Alternative,Energy

The race for clean, sustainable energy is heating up, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-energy-create-jobs-coal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green</a> hydrogen is poised to take center stage. This versatile fuel has the potential to replace fossil fuels in everything from transportation to heavy industry. 



There's just one catch -- producing green hydrogen in the massive quantities we need has seemed impossible due to its reliance on a super-rare metal: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-changing-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iridium</a>.



But a breakthrough from the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science (<a href="https://www.riken.jp/en/research/labs/csrs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSRS</a>) in Japan could be about to change everything. 



Their new technique reduces the amount of iridium needed in green hydrogen production by a whopping 95% – a game-changer for scaling up this transformative technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-hydrogen">Green hydrogen</h2>



Hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe, can be extracted from water through electrolysis, a process that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen. When used as fuel, hydrogen emits only water vapor, making it a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-net-zero-world-will-require-75-trillion-of-investment-and-1-billion-electric-cars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zero-emissions</a> energy source.



Traditionally, extracting hydrogen from water has required significant energy, often sourced from fossil fuels, which undermines the purpose of clean energy. 



Electrolysis powered by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-utilities-may-be-100-percent-renewable-energy-by-2060/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a>, like solar or wind, offers a solution. This process produces "green hydrogen" without leaving a carbon footprint.



Electrolysis needs efficient catalysts, and iridium, while highly effective, is both rare and expensive. This makes large-scale green hydrogen production costly and challenging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iridium-in-hydrogen-production">Iridium in hydrogen production</h2>



The RIKEN team's innovation lies in the way they combined iridium with manganese oxide.&nbsp;Instead of using a large block of iridium,&nbsp;they isolated individual iridium atoms and strategically dispersed them across the surface of manganese oxide,&nbsp;a more common metal.&nbsp;This careful arrangement and bonding trigger unique chemical interactions.



This new catalyst achieves the same excellent hydrogen production rate as pure iridium would,&nbsp;but with a fraction (only 5%!) of the rare,&nbsp;expensive metal.&nbsp;This makes it a far more accessible and cost-effective solution.



In electrolysis,&nbsp;catalysts can degrade over time,&nbsp;decreasing efficiency and increasing costs.&nbsp;This breakthrough catalyst maintains consistent performance for a remarkable duration – 3000 hours translates to over four months of non-stop hydrogen generation without any performance loss.



Oxidation states refer to how many electrons an atom has lost or gained in a chemical bond.&nbsp;Researchers believe that the iridium bonded with manganese oxide achieves an unusual +6 oxidation state,&nbsp;which could be the reason behind its significantly enhanced performance.



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



“We expect our catalyst to be easily transferred to real-world applications," says Ryuhei Nakamura,&nbsp;the study's lead researcher.&nbsp;This means existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-energy-supporters-stand-strong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green</a> hydrogen plants might be upgradeable,&nbsp;making the transition smoother.



Less iridium means lower upfront costs, making green hydrogen more competitive and attractive for investment. Iridium's scarcity and high price create a huge barrier to scaling up green <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hydrothermal-vents-earths-first-living-beings-hydrogen-gas-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrogen</a> production. 



This new technique dramatically lowers the amount of iridium required, making the whole process significantly more affordable to set up and run.



When the cost of a technology decreases,&nbsp;it becomes a more enticing investment opportunity. Lower upfront costs due to reduced iridium needs could bring in a wider range of investors,&nbsp;accelerating funding for green hydrogen projects and development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-faster-transition">Faster transition</h2>



This breakthrough could give us decades of breathing room as we develop truly sustainable catalysts made from common metals. Ideally, green hydrogen production wouldn't rely on rare metals at all. 



However, developing efficient catalysts using earth-abundant metals takes time. This breakthrough buys us decades by greatly improving efficiency while we work toward fully sustainable solutions.



The global energy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-countries-are-lagging-behind-in-the-shift-to-green-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transition</a> can't happen overnight.&nbsp;This technology provides a realistic pathway:&nbsp;increased green hydrogen production while giving us time to perfect catalysts that are completely independent of rare metals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-hydrogen-is-a-part-of-the-bigger-picture">Green hydrogen is a part of the bigger picture</h2>



The team is already collaborating with industry heavyweights to test their catalyst at scale. We could see this technology rolled out sooner rather than later. 



Collaborating with industry players means moving quickly from the lab to testing in large-scale hydrogen production facilities. This significantly speeds up practical application.



If tests are successful,&nbsp;this technology could be integrated fairly quickly into existing hydrogen production processes.&nbsp;This means we might not have to wait years or decades for the benefits.



The RIKEN catalyst is fantastic news,&nbsp;but remember,&nbsp;it's one piece of a much larger puzzle.&nbsp;To really unleash green hydrogen's potential,&nbsp;we need:



<ul>
<li>Investment everywhere:&nbsp;Governments,&nbsp;companies,&nbsp;and investors need to step up their funding of green hydrogen infrastructure,&nbsp;from production to distribution.</li>



<li>A team effort:&nbsp;Green hydrogen will work best alongside other renewables like solar and wind.&nbsp;Smart energy grids are needed to balance it all out.</li>



<li>The consumer factor:&nbsp;Industries need incentives to switch,&nbsp;but so do we as individuals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/costless-nudges-green-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Green</a> hydrogen-powered vehicles or energy storage solutions could become part of our daily lives in the future.</li>
</ul>



This breakthrough reminds us of the incredible potential science has to address our global energy challenges.&nbsp;The green hydrogen revolution is still in its early stages,&nbsp;but progress like this makes it feel excitingly within reach.&nbsp;



Let's stay informed,&nbsp;engaged,&nbsp;and push for policies that accelerate innovation and drive down costs – a cleaner,&nbsp;greener future is waiting.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adg5193" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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'Green' hydrogen energy production just got a lot easier

The race for clean, sustainable energy is heating up, and green hydrogen...

Our planet has just recorded its hottest April ever, marking an unprecedented sequence where each of the past 11 months has set a new heat record, according to the European Union's climate change monitoring institute, <a href="https://climate.copernicus.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Copernicus Climate Change Service</a> (C3S). 



The report, released on Wednesday, highlights that since June 2023, each month has been the hottest of its kind in recorded history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shift-in-the-climate-system">Shift in the climate system</h2>



In their latest monthly bulletin, C3S reported that with the inclusion of this April, the global average temperature over the past 12 months has been the highest ever recorded, at 1.61 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial average from 1850-1900.



Recent extreme temperatures, such as prolonged periods of record-breaking sea surface temperatures, have prompted scientists to explore the possibility that human actions might have pushed the climate system to a critical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-tipping-points-report-shows-humanity-on-a-disastrous-trajectory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tipping point</a>. 



“I think many scientists have asked the question whether there could be a shift in the climate system,” said Julien Nicolas, a Senior Climate Scientist at C3S.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recent-el-nino-phenomenon-nbsp">Recent El Niño phenomenon&nbsp;</h2>



The principal driver of climate change is the emission of greenhouse gasses from fossil fuels, but the recent natural El Niño phenomenon, which causes warming of surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, has also contributed to the temperature increases.



"El Niño peaked at the beginning of the year and the sea surface temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific are now going back towards neutral conditions," said Copernicus Director Carlo Buontempo.&nbsp;



"However, whilst temperature variations associated with natural cycles like El Niño come and go, the extra energy trapped into the ocean and the atmosphere by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases will keep pushing the global temperature towards new records."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-record-heat-in-april">Broader implications of the record heat in April</h2>



The impact of climate change was starkly evident in April's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/compound-weather-extremes-are-now-more-frequent-and-severe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather extremes</a>, including a heatwave in the Sahel region, which is linked to thousands of deaths. 



Hayley Fowler, a climate scientist at <a href="https://www.ncl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Newcastle University</a>, pointed out the urgency of the situation regarding global warming limits set by international agreements. “At what point do we declare we've lost the battle to keep temperatures below 1.5? My personal opinion is we've already lost that battle, and we really need to think very seriously about keeping below 2C and reducing our emissions as fast as we can,” she said.



The target to cap global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius was set at the 2015 U.N. climate summit, a threshold that scientists argue would prevent the most catastrophic effects of climate change, such as extreme heat, severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-ways-to-prevent-flooding-caused-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>, and irreversible damage to ecosystems. 



Although technically the 1.5C target has not been breached - as it refers to a long-term global temperature average - some experts believe it is no longer feasible to achieve this goal and are calling for more aggressive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/met-office-2024-co2-levels-will-surpass-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2 emissions</a> reductions to minimize exceeding the target.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-record-ocean-heat">Record ocean heat</h2>



According to a recent analysis from the BBC, the world's oceans have set new heat records every single day over the past year.



"The fact that all this heat is going into the ocean, and in fact, it's warming in some respects even more rapidly than we thought it would, is a cause for great concern," said Professor Mike Meredith from the British Antarctic Survey.



"These are real signs of the environment moving into areas where we really don't want it to be and if it carries on in that direction the consequences will be severe."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fourth-global-coral-bleaching-event-nbsp">Fourth global coral bleaching event&nbsp;</h2>



The latest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-coral-bleaching-event-is-now-underway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral bleaching event</a>, confirmed as the fourth global event of its kind, is currently underway and has been significantly impacting coral reefs around the world. This ongoing event has been observed since early 2023 and has affected over 54% of the world's coral reefs, with conditions worsening, making it potentially the largest bleaching event ever recorded.



The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has been monitoring the bleaching event through its Coral Reef Watch program, which has recorded extensive heat stress across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Ocean basins.&nbsp;



Coral bleaching has been particularly severe in areas like the Great Barrier Reef, which has experienced simultaneous high levels of bleaching across its entire area for the first time ever.&nbsp;



This widespread bleaching has profound implications not only for marine biodiversity but also for the economies and food security of communities that rely on these ecosystems. The global economic value of coral reefs is immense, estimated at $2.7 trillion annually, supporting industries such as tourism and fishing.



More details about C3S' report on record April heat can be found <a href="https://climate.copernicus.eu/copernicus-global-temperature-record-streak-continues-april-2024-was-hottest-record" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.



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April's record heat extends an alarming climate trend

Our planet has just recorded its hottest April ever, marking...

In an era where climate change poses significant challenges, an exciting development in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-utilities-may-be-100-percent-renewable-energy-by-2060/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a> has emerged. Researchers have discovered a way to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into methanol, offering a pathway to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and move closer to achieving carbon neutrality.



A team of dedicated researchers at the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> has unveiled a novel catalyst material, cobalt phthalocyanine, which facilitates this transformative process. 



This innovative catalyst efficiently converts CO2 -- a major contributor to global warming -- into methanol, providing a sustainable alternative for energy production.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methanol-production-via-co2">Methanol production via CO2</h2>



Published in the journal ACS Catalysis, this research showcases the multi-step chemical reaction facilitated by cobalt phthalocyanine. 



Initially, CO2 is converted into <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/carbon-monoxide-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon monoxide</a> (CO), which is then transformed into methanol. These reactions demonstrate not only the catalyst's effectiveness but also its potential for large-scale applications.



The method is distinguished by its sustainable approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-emissions-save-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reducing emissions</a> while simultaneously generating clean energy. 



The capability to chemically convert CO2 into methanol is especially notable, considering methanol's potential as a cleaner fuel alternative that could power vehicles with a significantly lower environmental impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-producing-methanol-from-co2">Challenges in producing methanol from CO2</h2>



While the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-turned-methanol/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">industrial conversion</a> of CO2 to methanol is not new, the scale and efficiency of these processes through electrochemical means have posed substantial challenges. Kevin Rivera-Cruz, a recent doctoral graduate in chemistry is a co-primary author of the study. 



"Our approach is unique because we are able to bring and bridge all this knowledge that each field has on the same problem. We have scientists and engineers all within one team, brainstorming and gathering insights to design and understand the system in the best way possible," Rivera-Cruz explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-scientific-hurdles">Overcoming scientific hurdles</h2>



The researchers encountered a significant hurdle: cobalt phthalocyanine's tendency to bind more strongly with CO2 than with CO. 



This strong binding to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/met-office-2024-co2-levels-will-surpass-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CO2</a> leads to its displacement by another CO2 molecule before CO can be converted to methanol. 



To address this, the team utilized advanced computational modeling and experiments to delve deeper into how the catalyst’s electrons interact with both CO2 and CO molecules. Their findings indicated that cobalt phthalocyanine binds CO2 over three times more tightly than it does with carbon monoxide.



Armed with this knowledge, the researchers propose redesigning the catalyst to enhance its interaction with CO and reduce its affinity for CO2. 



Such modifications are crucial for the efficient conversion of CO2 to methanol on a large scale, paving the way for the practical use of this technology in renewable energy applications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Methanol as a pathway to sustainability</h2>



The journey toward a carbon-neutral future is fraught with scientific and technological challenges. Achieving carbon neutrality requires reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and finding innovative ways to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. However, the path is filled with complex obstacles, from developing efficient technologies to scaling them for widespread use.



Despite these challenges, researchers continue to make significant strides through innovations like cobalt phthalocyanine. This novel catalyst material efficiently converts CO2, a leading contributor to climate change, into methanol. 



Methanol is a versatile fuel alternative with a significantly lower environmental impact. By addressing the dual challenge of reducing CO2 emissions and providing cleaner energy, this innovation offers a promising solution.



By redesigning the way we handle waste CO2 and converting it into useful methanol fuel, we edge closer to a sustainable and energy-secure world. This new approach to recycling CO2 mitigates emissions and creates a valuable product that can power vehicles and industries in a more environmentally friendly way.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acscatal.3c04957" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Catalysis</a>.



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Technological leap turns carbon dioxide (CO2) into methanol fuel

In an era where climate change poses significant challenges, an...

Just a few months ago, Ritacuba Blanco stood majestically in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/springtime-in-the-central-andes-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colombian Andes</a>, cloaked in a pristine layer of ice and snow. Today, massive cracks scar its surface, revealing bare rock beneath, and signaling an alarming change. 



The glacier, located in <a href="https://old.parquesnacionales.gov.co/portal/en/ecotourism/andean-region/el-cocuy-national-natural-park/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sierra Nevada del Cocuy National Park</a>, faces a rapid demise, melting at an unprecedented pace due to the compounded effects of climate change and the El Niño phenomenon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disappearing-glaciers-of-colombia">Disappearing glaciers of Colombia</h2>



Colombia was once a land of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomsday-glacier-seems-to-have-lost-its-ability-to-recover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a>. In the early 20th century, 14 of its peaks boasted these icy giants, covering the mountains with a perpetual layer of ice and snow. 



Over time, however, relentless warming took its toll on these glaciers. Today, after decades of climate change and rising temperatures, only six remain. Even these survivors are rapidly retreating, and Ritacuba Blanco is the most vulnerable of them all.



The Ritacuba Blanco Glacier, located in the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy National Park about 250 kilometers northeast of Bogotá, is melting at an unprecedented rate. 



In 2022, it had only 12.8 square kilometers of ice and snow remaining -- the lowest coverage ever recorded by the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology, and Environmental Studies (<a href="https://www.un-spider.org/colombia-institute-hydrology-meteorology-and-environmental-studies-ideam" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ideam</a>). 



This year, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-unleash-invasive-species-into-unexpected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a>’s condition has worsened due to the compounded effects of climate change and El Niño. Massive cracks now scar its surface, revealing the bare rock beneath.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/corbassiere-glacier-earths-natural-climate-archives-are-melting-away/">Gla</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/image/corbassiere-glacier-earths-natural-climate-archives-are-melting-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">c</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/image/corbassiere-glacier-earths-natural-climate-archives-are-melting-away/">iers</a> are more than just picturesque landscapes. They act as natural reservoirs, storing water in frozen form during colder months and releasing it slowly when they melt during warmer periods. 



This gradual melting provides essential water to the surrounding ecosystems and communities, particularly during the dry season. With glaciers shrinking, less ice is available to melt, disrupting the delicate balance and throwing local water supplies into chaos.



The loss of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> like Ritacuba Blanco has significant consequences for both people and nature. Communities that rely on glacial meltwater for drinking, irrigation, and hydropower are at risk of water shortages.



In Bogotá, unprecedented water rationing has already been implemented due to record low reservoir levels. Ecosystems dependent on consistent water flow from glaciers also face severe stress, threatening biodiversity in the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-causing-the-ritacuba-blanco-s-rapid-melt">What's causing the Ritacuba Blanco's rapid melt?</h2>



The culprits behind Ritacuba Blanco’s rapid melting are a double whammy: a natural weather pattern called El Niño, combined with the long-term warming caused by human activities.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">El Niño</h3>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mountains-impact-el-nino-winters-and-snowfall-amounts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> is a warming of ocean waters in the eastern Pacific that occurs every two to seven years, lasting about nine to twelve months. It's a natural climate cycle, but its effects have been amplified by rising global temperatures. 



As the world's baseline temperature continues to rise due to climate change, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-event-may-push-earth-towards-its-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño events</a> are becoming more intense and damaging.



During an El Niño event, warm ocean waters disrupt normal weather patterns across the globe. In South America, including Colombia, El Niño brings extreme heat and dry conditions. This results in decreased precipitation and more intense solar radiation on glacier surfaces, accelerating their melting.



In Colombia, El Niño has caused major fires, with more than 17,000 hectares of forest going up in flames. Lakes have dried up, and the capital, Bogotá, has implemented unprecedented water rationing due to record low reservoir levels. For glaciers like Ritacuba Blanco, El Niño spells disaster.



"The El Niño phenomenon is perhaps the worst thing that can happen to our snowy peaks or glaciers," said Jorge Luis Ceballos, a glaciologist at the Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (Ideam).



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Greenhouse gases</h3>



The UN's World Meteorological Organization (<a href="https://wmo.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WMO</a>) is unequivocal in its assessment of the main culprit behind global warming: Heat-trapping greenhouse gases are unequivocally the main culprit. 



These gases, primarily carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, come mainly from burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.



When released into the atmosphere, these gases act like a giant blanket around the Earth, trapping heat that would otherwise escape into space. This greenhouse effect raises global temperatures, leading to widespread climate changes, including glacier melting.



Since the Industrial Revolution, human activities have significantly increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This has resulted in a steady rise in global temperatures, with 2023 being one of the hottest years on record.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ritacuba-blanco-is-melting-before-our-eyes">Ritacuba Blanco is melting before our eyes</h2>



"At the end of last year, the walls here were about six meters (20 feet) high... today, they are one meter," <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-glacier-melt-found-in-himalaya-has-critical-implications/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> guide Edwin Prada told AFP on a recent ascent of the peak.



The speed of the change is what's shocking. Just a few months ago, Ritacuba Blanco's glacier looked eternal. Now, cracks run deep in the ice, revealing bare rock, and the meltwater flows in rivers instead of being locked away safely for future use.



"Never has the thaw been as noticeable as it is now... Every time you go up it is worse," expressed Humberto Estepa, a local resident.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-consequences-of-ritacuba-blanco-melting">Global consequences of Ritacuba Blanco melting</h2>



Ritacuba Blanco isn't an isolated case. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petermann-glacier-melting-has-tripled-due-to-warm-ocean-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glaciers</a> worldwide are vanishing. The Himalayas, the "water towers of Asia," are losing their ice, threatening crucial water sources for millions of people. This melting ice has a more direct impact too - rising sea levels.



"Ocean warming and rapidly melting glaciers and ice sheets drove the sea level last year to its highest point since satellite records began in 1993," reports the World Meteorological Organization (<a href="https://wmo.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WMO</a>). Think of glaciers like giant, slow-moving rivers of ice. When they melt into the ocean, the water level goes up.



The devastation of the glaciers isn't just about water and sea levels. It's a wake-up call from the planet that the climate crisis is real, and it's accelerating. El Niño made things worse this time around, but the real problem is the relentless warming we're causing.



El Niño has also contributed to devastating wildfires in Colombia and water shortages so extreme that they've led to rationing in the capital city.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-we-do-to-save-glaciers-like-ritacuba-blanco">What can we do to save glaciers like Ritacuba Blanco?</h2>



The story of Ritacuba Blanco is a somber one, but it's not hopeless. There's still time to act and help preserve this and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cadman-glacier-is-losing-2-1-billion-tons-of-ice-melting-into-the-ocean-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other glaciers</a>:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reduce greenhouse gas emissions</h3>



One of the most effective ways to tackle climate change is to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. Transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower can significantly reduce emissions.



Simple measures like using energy-efficient appliances, LED bulbs, and proper insulation can lower our carbon footprint. Walking, cycling, and using public transport instead of driving can reduce emissions. For longer distances, consider carpooling or driving electric vehicles.



By reducing, reusing, and recycling, we can minimize waste and lower emissions associated with the production of goods.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Support climate policies</h3>



Individual actions are essential, but systemic change requires collective political will. Let your elected officials know you care about climate issues. Call, write, or email them, urging them to support strong environmental policies.



Advocate for laws and regulations that promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture while reducing emissions from fossil fuels.



Support candidates and political leaders who prioritize climate action and have concrete plans to tackle the crisis. Partner with local and global organizations that are working towards environmental sustainability.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Spread the word</h3>



Raising awareness about the climate crisis can inspire others to act. Have conversations about climate change, its impacts, and the actions we can take with friends and family.



Organize workshops, film screenings, or discussion groups on climate topics. Share informative articles, videos, and personal stories about climate action on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. 



Glaciers like Ritacuba Blanco are the canaries in the coal mine when it comes to climate change. Their plight is a warning we can't afford to ignore. It's time to listen and act before we lose more of these icy treasures.



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Ritacuba Blanco glacier is vanishing rapidly due to climate change

Just a few months ago, Ritacuba Blanco stood majestically in...

The northeastern United States is witnessing a growing environmental challenge as a notorious aquatic weed, known as northern hydrilla, expands its reach. 



Initially confined to the Connecticut River, recent studies have shown this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disease-that-kills-bald-eagles-linked-to-invasive-plant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive species</a> is now populating multiple waterbodies across Connecticut and even reaching into Massachusetts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ecological-threat-of-northern-hydrilla">The ecological threat of northern hydrilla</h2>



Northern hydrilla is known for its rapid growth, which can form dense canopies that hinder recreational activities like boating and fishing. More critically, its unchecked spread poses a significant threat to native plant and animal species. 



This subspecies also carries a bacterium that produces a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/algae-blooms-can-release-neurotoxins-into-the-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurotoxin</a> linked to fatalities in bald eagles and waterfowl, highlighting its dangerous ecological impact.



Study lead author Jeremiah Foley, an assistant agricultural scientist with the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Statio, expressed significant concern about the expansion of northern hydrilla.



"The spread and establishment of yet another hydrilla subspecies in the United States is alarming. Especially alarming is the negative impacts that this invasive aquatic weed can have on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-aquatic-plants-could-help-clean-coastal-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">native aquatic</a> and non-aquatic plant and animal species, and how quickly it’s spreading," said Foley.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recent-discoveries-and-the-need-for-vigilance">Recent discoveries and the need for vigilance</h2>



Northern hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata subspecies lithuanica) remained undocumented outside the Connecticut River until 2022. However, by the end of 2023, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-chorus-invasive-plants-change-the-soundscape/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive weed</a> had been detected in six additional locations. 



These sites are frequently near boat-launch ramps, indicating a potential route for the spread of northern hydrilla.



“Significant costs are already associated with the impact and maintenance of the prior two subspecies established in the U.S. since the 1960s and 1980s," said Foley.



"The discovery of Hydrilla verticillata and its subspecies lithuanica in the Connecticut River and the breadth of the current infestation represent a significant ecological invasion event with potentially far-reaching implications.”



Popular fishing spots such as East Twin Lakes, Amos Lake, and Congamond Lakes, which regularly host fishing tournaments, are particularly at risk.



Moreover, the movement of boats from infested waters to uninfected areas during these tournaments poses a high risk of spreading northern hydrilla.



Foley highlighted the specific dangers associated with these movements: “Of particular concern are tournaments that involve travel from infested waterbodies to non-infested ones.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-crucial-fight-against-northern-hydrilla">The crucial fight against northern hydrilla</h2>



Given the situation, Foley emphasized the importance of research into how angling tournaments might contribute to the spread of hydrilla. 



“Management efforts should prioritize early detection and prevention strategies, such as increased monitoring at boat-launch ramps and enhanced education for boaters to mitigate the spread of this invasive species.”



The battle against the spread of northern hydrilla is crucial for preserving our aquatic ecosystems. 



The detailed findings and recommendations from this study are available in an article published by <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambridge University Press</a> in a journal of the Weed Science Society of America. 



The publication not only raises awareness but also serves as a call to action for all stakeholders involved in the health of our water bodies.



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



Northern hydrilla, also known as Hydrilla verticillata, is a submersed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-bombs-invasive-plants-can-lie-dormant-for-centuries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aquatic plant</a> that has garnered attention due to its invasive nature and rapid growth in freshwater environments. Originally native to Asia, it has spread across various regions including North America and Europe, thriving in lakes, rivers, and canals.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Characteristics</h3>



This plant is characterized by its dense, mat-like growth which can dominate water bodies, blocking sunlight and depleting oxygen levels, thus outcompeting native species and altering aquatic ecosystems.&nbsp;



Hydrilla has slender stems that can grow up to 25 feet long, depending on water depth, and it features small, pointed leaves that grow in whorls of four to eight around the stem. It also reproduces prolifically not only through seeds but also vegetatively through fragments, tubers, and turions, making it particularly difficult to control once established.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Management of northern hydrilla&nbsp;</h3>



Due to its aggressive growth and resilience, managing hydrilla often involves a combination of mechanical harvesting, chemical herbicides, and biological control, such as introducing specific fish species that feed on it. Despite control efforts, hydrilla remains a challenging and costly invasive species to manage in affected water bodies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/invasive-plant-science-and-management/article/abs/northern-hydrilla-hydrilla-verticillata-ssp-lithuanica-discovery-and-establishment-outside-the-connecticut-river/00B45505BAB20976FE34BCCF12E75E69" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Invasive Plant Science and Management</a>.



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Invasive aquatic weed  is spreading rapidly in the northeastern U.S.

The northeastern United States is witnessing a growing environmental challenge...

Recent research highlights a significant alteration in the preservation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-organisms-are-a-rich-source-of-natural-products/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine organisms</a> due to human activities. The alterations, which have lasting effects on the fossil record, serve a dual role. They can both enhance and impair our understanding of the marine past.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaping-and-shifting-our-ecological-records">Shaping and shifting our ecological records</h2>



The study revealed that human actions have profoundly changed the environment and the nature of the fossil records that archive these changes. 



Michal Kowalewski, an expert in invertebrate paleontology from <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, emphasized the complexity of this impact. “We are not only changing the environment; we’re also changing the nature of the record that archives this information,” he stated. 



This dual impact manifests in two ways. In some instances, human activities prevent the fossil record from preserving useful information about ongoing changes. 



In others, these actions enhance the quality of the currently forming fossil record, providing clearer insights into our ecological past.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hidden-consequences-of-altered-ecosystems">The hidden consequences of altered ecosystems</h2>



The researchers pointed out that without accounting for these effects, there could be a misinterpretation of data crucial for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>. 



Understanding what a degraded ecosystem looked like before human alteration is essential for effective restoration. 



“We use fossils in conservation to understand the transition from natural, pristine environments to the ones we have today,” explained Kowalewski.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Factors that affect fossilization </h2>



The researchers, including experts in marine paleoecology, delved into numerous factors that affect fossilization. The team looked at factors such as how quickly sediment accumulates, the behavior of burrowing creatures, how deeply remains are buried, and how fast certain organic materials decay. 



Notably, human activities such as bottom trawling have drastically altered and oxygenated the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noise-pollution-is-impacting-life-on-the-seafloor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seafloor</a> sediments. This widespread activity disrupts the natural sediment layering, speeding up the decomposition of organic materials and stirring up as much sediment as all the world's rivers combined.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activities-modify-the-fossil-record">Human activities modify the fossil record </h2>



The introduction of species like the red king crab to new environments has also indirectly modified the fossil record. The crabs diminish burrowing invertebrate populations, reducing sediment oxygenation and thus, ironically, enhancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/preparing-fossils/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil</a> preservation. 



However, their shell-crushing behavior reduces the number of preservable shells, complicating future paleontological analysis.



Many changes driven by human activities are so significant that they closely resemble natural phenomena such as erosion or species migration. These actions can sometimes erase entire fossil archives or introduce foreign materials into an environment. 



Kowalewski pointed out specific human interventions like beach replenishment, where sediments from deep-water environments are moved to shorelines. This disrupts natural erosion patterns and can even result in the relocation of ancient fossils.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disentangling-human-impact-from-the-natural-fossil-record">Disentangling human impact from the natural fossil record</h2>



Rafal Nawrot, the study's lead author and a paleontologist at the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a>, noted the complexities of distinguishing between natural and human-induced changes. Innovative methods, such as increased use of radiocarbon dating, offer potential solutions. 



This approach, though once cost-prohibitive, is now more accessible and can provide clearer timelines for recent sediment layers disrupted by activities like trawling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Human activities' impact on fossil records</h2>



As the researchers emphasized, embracing more thorough sampling methods and sophisticated statistical analyses could enhance our grasp of how human activities shape our understanding of Earth's historical biological record. 



"Changes in the geological record can be fingerprints of human activity and may themselves reveal something about the history of an ecosystem,” said Kowalewski.



This pivotal research calls for a renewed approach to interpreting the marine fossil record, particularly in light of persistent human influences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-ocean-fossil-record">More about the ocean fossil record</h2>



The ocean fossil record is a rich archive that provides a window into the life that has inhabited Earth's seas over billions of years. It encompasses the remains and traces of marine organisms embedded in sedimentary rock layers.&nbsp;



As researchers study these fossils, they learn about the various forms of life, from microscopic plankton to gigantic marine reptiles and mammals that have evolved and sometimes gone extinct.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Marine fossils</h3>



Marine fossils are particularly significant because water bodies tend to offer ideal conditions for fossilization. Organisms can be quickly buried by sediment in calm or deep waters, slowing decomposition and allowing the preservation of bones, shells, and even soft tissues in some cases. This process captures snapshots of marine biodiversity at different periods in Earth's history.



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



The study of these fossils helps scientists understand not only the evolutionary history of marine life but also the environmental conditions of past eras.&nbsp;



Changes in the types and distributions of fossils across different layers can indicate shifts in climate, ocean chemistry, or sea levels. For instance, the presence of certain types of coral or foraminifera can reveal information about the temperature and chemistry of ancient oceans.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mass extinction events&nbsp;</h3>



Furthermore, the ocean fossil record is crucial for studying mass extinction events, such as the Permian-Triassic and Cretaceous-Paleogene extinctions, which significantly impacted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-lionfish-global-domination-mediterranean-sea-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>. 



These studies offer insights into the resilience and vulnerability of ocean life, providing valuable lessons for addressing current and future challenges in marine conservation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://bg.copernicus.org/articles/21/2177/2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biogeosciences</a>.



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Rewriting history: Human activities modify the marine fossil record

Recent research highlights a significant alteration in the preservation of...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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