<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grapevines-could-offer-a-breakthrough-alternative-to-plastic-packaging/">Plastic</a> bags are everywhere, and too many slip into rivers and onto beaches. A new analysis finds that policies that either charge a small fee per bag or prohibit them outright cut the share of bags found during shoreline cleanups by 25 to 47 percent.</p>



<p>The study combed through hundreds of city, county, and state rules passed between 2017 and 2023. It matched those policies to more than 45,000 volunteer cleanups across the United States to see what actually changed on the ground.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-ran-the-study">Who ran the study</h2>



<p>The research was coauthored by <a href="https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/ceoe/departments/smsp/faculty/kimberly-oremus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kimberly L. Oremus</a> of the University of Delaware’s School of Marine Science and Policy (<a href="https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/ceoe/departments/smsp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UDEL</a>). </p>



<p>Oremus and her collaborator set out to measure litter, not just shopping behavior, so the results speak to what ends up in nature.</p>



<p>The team relied on citizen science, meaning trained volunteers recorded what they collected during beach, river, and lake cleanups. </p>



<p>They drew on <a href="https://www.coastalcleanupdata.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TIDES</a>, a public database that stores those counts in one place so researchers can analyze patterns across time and place.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-plastic-bag-policies">Studying plastic bag policies</h2>



<p>To isolate the effect of bag policies, the authors used a Difference-in-Differences (<a href="https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/research/population-health-methods/difference-difference-estimation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DiD</a>) approach that compares places with and without new laws over the same period. </p>



<p>That design helps rule out unrelated trends that affect everyone, such as national shifts in shopping or packaging.</p>



<p>The headline result is simple. In communities with full bans or fees, the share of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-from-plastic-bottles-linked-to-high-blood-pressure-and-heart-problems/">plastic</a> bags in the litter mix fell relative to similar places without policies, and the decline grew in the years after a law took effect.</p>



<p>State level rules tended to be more reliable in the data than city or county policies. Effects looked similar along coasts and rivers, with hints of larger gains along lakes where winds and currents spread litter differently.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-policy-fees-vs-bans">Plastic policy: Fees vs. bans</h2>



<p>Fees change the default at every checkout and discourage taking a bag when you do not need one, which reduces both thin and thicker bag use.</p>



<p>Other <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/carrier-bag-charge-summary-of-data-in-england/single-use-plastic-carrier-bags-charge-data-for-england-2024-to-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence</a> points in the same direction outside the United States. England reports an almost 98 percent drop in single use carrier bags at major retailers since its charge began.</p>



<p>Policies that only restrict thin bags often allow thicker <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agricultural-soil-is-now-the-worlds-biggest-plastic-dumping-ground/">plastic</a> labeled as reusable. </p>



<p>Those partial bans showed the smallest and least precise effects in the analysis, which is consistent with shoppers substituting one kind of plastic for another.</p>



<p>Some states also pass preemption <a href="https://www.ncsl.org/environment-and-natural-resources/state-plastic-bag-legislation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">laws</a> that block cities and counties from regulating bags at all. When local governments cannot act, the study’s data suggest statewide policies become especially important.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-and-entanglement">Wildlife and entanglement</h2>



<p>The cleanup records include notes on animals found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-99-percent-sea-turtles-organ-tissue-reproductive-system/">entangled in debris</a>. </p>



<p>In areas with bag policies, the presence of entangled animals dropped by roughly 30 to 37 percent, although the authors caution that the estimates are imprecise and more data are needed.</p>



<p>That finding aligns with what we know about <a href="https://www.nrdc.org/stories/single-use-plastics-101" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">single-use-plastics</a>. Thin bags linger in water and along shorelines, where they can snag, smother, or be eaten by turtles, birds, and fish.</p>



<p>Many studies track what happens at store checkouts, but fewer track what ends up outdoors. Shoreline cleanups offer a window into that last step in the chain from purchase to pollution.</p>



<p>Across the study period, the share of bags among collected items rose overall, but it rose less where bag laws existed. That pattern is exactly what you want to see if policies are slowing the flow of litter into the environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-plastic-policy-steps">Global plastic policy steps</h2>



<p>A small, universal fee is a simple tool that nudges behavior without banning choices. Full bans can work too, and the analysis shows both approaches reduce the share of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glass-bottles-contain-more-microplastics-than-plastic-containers/">plastic</a> bags found during cleanups.</p>



<p>The mix of policies should match local conditions. In places with more bag litter to begin with, impacts were largest, so targeting high problem areas with fast action can deliver quick gains.</p>



<p>Plastic bag rules are only one part of the picture. Negotiators from 175 countries are working toward a plastics treaty under <a href="https://www.unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNEP</a> that could standardize action on a wider set of products and chemicals.</p>



<p>The study notes that bottles, caps, and other items did not decline when bag policies passed. That is a signal that targeted rules for other single use products would be needed to curb overall litter.</p>



<p>Adopt a modest fee or a full ban that applies across retail and restaurant settings, and keep the text simple so it is easy to enforce. Pair the policy with clear signs at checkout and with retailer reporting that tracks compliance.</p>



<p>Measure results in the same way the researchers did. Recruit volunteers, log items in TIDES, and watch how the litter mix changes year over year so the policy can be adjusted as needed.</p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adp9274" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>.</p>



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Studies confirm that a small tax definitely helps curb plastic pollution

Plastic bags are everywhere, and too many slip into rivers and onto beaches. A new analysis finds that policies that either charge a small fee per bag or prohibit them outright cut the share of bags found during shoreline cleanups by 25 to 47 percent. The study combed through hundreds of city, county, and state rules passed between 2017 and 2023. It matched those policies to more than 45,000 volunteer cleanups across the United States to see what actually changed on the ground. Who ran the study...

Penguins,Gather,On,An,Iceberg,In,The,Weddell,Sea,Of

<p>In recent years, the issue of microplastic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-2023-beatplasticpollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> has emerged as a forefront concern in environmental discussions. Studies have increasingly revealed the pervasive presence of microplastics, even in the world's most remote and pristine locations, including Antarctica.</p>



<p>A disturbing new study by researchers from the <a href="https://www.unibas.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Basel</a> and the Alfred-Wegener Institute (<a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AWI</a>) brings to light the alarming extent of microplastic contamination in the Weddell Sea, a remote part of the Antarctic Ocean. </p>



<p>Their spring 2021 expedition data reveals a situation far more severe than previously recognized.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiny-particles-titanic-problem">Tiny particles, titanic problem</h2>



<p>In the context of growing environmental concerns, the term '<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-plastics-drastically-reduce-microplastic-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>' refers to minuscule plastic fragments, typically smaller than 5 millimeters in diameter.</p>



<p>Consequently, these particles often originate from the gradual breakdown of larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/4200-harmful-plastic-chemicals-hidden-in-everyday-objects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic objects</a>. Over time, environmental factors like sunlight exposure, wave action, and physical wear cause these objects to deteriorate.</p>



<p>Moreover, microplastics include intentionally created tiny plastic beads used in cosmetic products like exfoliating face washes and toothpastes.</p>



<p>The issue with microplastics lies in their propensity to infiltrate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-found-in-every-aquatic-species-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aquatic ecosystems</a>, leading to ingestion by wildlife under the mistaken belief that they are food.</p>



<p>This poses a direct threat to marine and freshwater species and carries broader implications for human health and environmental integrity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-microplastics-in-antarctica">Analyzing microplastics in Antarctica</h2>



<p>The research team analyzed 17 seawater samples from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/looking-for-microplastics-in-the-remote-weddell-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weddell Sea</a>. They found significantly higher concentrations of microplastics than those reported in earlier studies.</p>



<p>Subsequently, Clara Leistenschneider, the study's lead and a doctoral candidate at the University of Basel, credits the discrepancy to their innovative sampling method.</p>



<p>Unlike traditional techniques, which use fine nets to capture particles larger than 300 micrometers, their approach targeted a wider range of particle sizes, from 11 to 500 micrometers.</p>



<p>Employing this method, which involved pumping water into tanks, filtering it, and analyzing it with infrared spectroscopy, the team made a striking discovery. </p>



<p>They uncovered a staggering 98.3 percent of plastic particles smaller than 300 micrometers -- sizes likely overlooked by previous studies.</p>



<p>"Pollution in the Antarctic Ocean goes far beyond what was reported in past studies," Leistenschneider remarks, underscoring the gravity of their discovery.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-microplastics-reach-antarctica">How microplastics reach Antarctica</h2>



<p>The study also delves into the factors influencing the distribution of microplastics in the Weddell Sea. Samples collected north of the continental slope, particularly in areas influenced by the Antarctic Slope Current, showed the highest concentrations. </p>



<p>While the precise reasons for this pattern remain uncertain, researchers speculate on the role of coastal ice and ocean currents in trapping and releasing microplastics. </p>



<p>Gunnar Gerdts from the AWI proposes a theory regarding ocean currents. He suggests they might act as a barrier, limiting the exchange of water -- and thereby microplastics -- between the ocean's northern and southern parts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-microplastics-beyond-the-ocean-s-surface">Tracking microplastics beyond the ocean's surface</h2>



<p>Further investigation is needed to understand the vertical distribution of microplastics, as the study focused solely on surface waters.</p>



<p>However, challenges like limited sampling time and inadequate equipment have hindered a comprehensive analysis of deeper waters.</p>



<p>Such an analysis could uncover different dynamics, given the contrasting nature of deep and surface currents.</p>



<p>The origin of these microplastics in the Weddell Sea remains a puzzle, sparking significant scientific inquiry.</p>



<p>On one hand, possible sources include local ship traffic from tourism, fishing, and research activities. On the other hand, distant regions could contribute through ocean currents or atmospheric transport.</p>



<p>Amidst these uncertainties, one thing is clear: the enduring presence of microplastics in the Antarctic waters poses significant ecological risks. </p>



<p>This situation is potentially exacerbated by the strong Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which may hinder these pollutants from leaving the area.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-and-the-future-of-antarctica">Microplastics and the future of Antarctica</h2>



<p>Leistenschneider plans to study sediment samples to understand microplastic seabed accumulation and its impact on Antarctic icefish habitats. She notes the need for action, especially as Antarctic tourism grows.</p>



<p>She remains hopeful, citing increased global awareness and efforts to combat microplastic pollution. "Research on the topic has dramatically increased awareness in recent years of the problems that microplastics cause for the environment and all living organisms," she states, advocating for individual responsibility and global solutions.</p>



<p>Overall, her research aims to highlight and address the critical yet overlooked problem of microplastics in Antarctic waters, urging a collective reassessment and action plan.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724022678?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a></em>.</p>



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Microplastics pollution in Antarctica is much worse than previously believed

In recent years, the issue of microplastic pollution has emerged...

<p>A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado, Boulder</a> (CU Boulder) has found that, over the span of sixty years, climate change has pushed certain ant species beyond their traditional boundaries in Gregory Canyon near Boulder, Colorado. </p>



<p>This shift, leading ant species unable to cope with rising temperatures to vacate their original habitats, signals a profound alteration in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/">biodiversity</a> that could have far-reaching consequences for local ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-indicators-of-climate-change">Valuable indicators of climate change</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-social-nature-of-ants-will-them-tolerate-climate-change/">Ants</a>, being ectothermic organisms, rely heavily on environmental temperatures for their metabolism and other vital functions, rendering them particularly susceptible to the effects of climate change. This feature makes ants valuable indicators for studying ecosystem responses to temperature shifts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The foundation for this study was laid more than six decades ago by CU Boulder entomologist Robert Gregg and his student John Browne. Intrigued by their pioneering work, lead author Anna Paraskevopoulos and her research team embarked on a mission to examine how the ant community in Gregory Canyon has evolved since then.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isolated-impacts-of-climate-change-nbsp">Isolated impacts of climate change&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Despite the significant urban expansion of Boulder, Gregory Canyon has remained relatively untouched, offering a unique window into the isolated impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/">climate change</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This gave us an opportunity to study the isolated impacts of climate change. In many other studies, the effect of land use and climate change are often entangled,” Paraskevopoulos said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-shift-in-ant-populations-nbsp">Dynamic shift in ant populations&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers discovered a dynamic shift in ant populations, noting the emergence of some species not previously recorded in the canyon alongside the expansion and dominance of others. Conversely, certain species documented by Browne and Gregg have either dwindled in prevalence or vanished entirely.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Across the different environments and habitats in the canyon, we're seeing the composition of ant species becoming more similar,” said senior author Julian Resasco, an expert in ecology and evolutionary biology at CU Boulder.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-and-ecosystem-stability-nbsp">Ants and ecosystem stability&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The significance of ants as crucial ecosystem engineers cannot be overstated. They play essential roles in enhancing soil aeration, accelerating the decomposition process, and dispersing seeds. Different ant species contribute uniquely to the ecosystem, affecting various ecological processes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The shift in ant biodiversity observed in Gregory Canyon raises questions about the broader implications of these changes. “If the ecosystem has only a single type of ant, it could mean that the animal is only contributing to ecosystem functioning in one way, potentially reducing ecosystem stability,” Paraskevopoulos explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-decline-in-insect-populations-nbsp">Widespread decline in insect populations&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This study contributes to the growing body of evidence pointing to a global decline in insect populations, a phenomenon many scientists have termed an "insect apocalypse." It underscores the urgent need for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving these changes and their potential impact on ecosystem functioning.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In response to climate change, species are changing the ranges where they're occurring. Some of them are spreading and becoming winners, while others are crashing and becoming losers. This work helps us understand how those communities reshuffle, which could have implications on how ecosystems function,” Resasco concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-as-bioindicators-of-climate-change-nbsp">Ants as bioindicators of climate change&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Ants serve as bioindicators of climate change due to their sensitivity to changes in their environment, making their behaviors, distributions, and community compositions useful indicators of shifts in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-not-properly-adapting-to-warming-temperatures/">climate conditions</a>. Here’s how ants can reflect changes in the climate:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensitivity-to-temperature">Sensitivity to temperature</h3>



<p>Ants are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. Changes in temperature and humidity can directly affect their survival, foraging behavior, reproduction, and distribution. For example, warmer temperatures might lead to shifts in ant species distributions, with some species moving to higher elevations or latitudes in search of suitable conditions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-ecological-roles-nbsp">Diverse ecological roles&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Ants play various crucial roles in ecosystems, such as soil aeration, seed dispersal, and predation. Climate change can alter these roles and affect the broader ecosystem. For instance, changes in precipitation patterns and temperature can impact ant-mediated seed dispersal, potentially affecting plant community composition.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-composition-nbsp">Community composition&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Changes in climate can lead to shifts in ant community composition and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/treasure-map-will-help-experts-find-new-ant-species/">diversity</a>. Some species may thrive under new conditions, while others decline or disappear, leading to altered interactions among species. Monitoring these changes can provide insights into the impacts of climate change on local and broader ecosystems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbiotic-relationships">Symbiotic relationships</h3>



<p>Ants engage in symbiotic relationships with plants and other insects, such as aphids. Climate change can disrupt these relationships by shifting the phenology (timing of biological events) of the involved species, potentially impacting ecosystem health and function.</p>



<p>By studying changes in ant populations and communities, scientists can gain valuable insights into the impacts of climate change on ecosystems. This data can inform conservation strategies and help predict future changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ecy.4302" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Ecology</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Ants are shifting to new habitats to cope with climate change

A recent study led by the University of Colorado, Boulder...

The,Nanaimo,River,Estuary,Aka,The,Largest,Estuary,On,Vancouver

<p>Estuaries, the vital wetland ecosystems and carbon sinks that connect freshwater rivers to saline ocean waters, have been quietly disappearing over the past 35 years. </p>



<p>A new study reveals that worldwide, dams and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tulare-lake-has-re-emerged-in-california-after-130-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">land reclamation</a> activities have converted a staggering 250,000 acres of estuary -- an area roughly 17 times the size of Manhattan -- to urban land or agricultural fields. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-estuaries-as-carbon-stores">Importance of estuaries as carbon stores</h2>



<p>The majority of this land conversion and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/estuaries-are-warming-at-twice-the-rate-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">estuary</a> loss has occurred in rapidly developing countries, and the findings could help these nations avoid the problems faced by countries that have already lost or degraded their estuaries.</p>



<p>Estuaries are gateways connecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parts-of-new-york-city-are-sinking-while-others-are-rising/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">land and sea</a>, providing habitat for wildlife, sequestering carbon, and serving as hubs for transport and shipping. </p>



<p>According to Guan-hong Lee, a geoscientist at <a href="https://eng.inha.ac.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inha University</a> in South Korea who led the study, "Estuary change is really interesting, especially in 20th century, because estuaries have been altered by humans by the construction of estuarine dams and land reclamation. When estuaries are modified by humans, the consequences for land loss are surprisingly huge."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-price-of-estuary-degradation">Price of estuary degradation</h2>



<p>People have been molding estuaries to fit their needs for thousands of years, and now, some countries are paying the price. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-species-are-transforming-coastal-estuaries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Estuary degradation</a> and loss can lower water quality, shrink and fragment critical habitats, and remove coastlines' protection from storms. </p>



<p>Many developed countries, such as the Netherlands and Germany, have already modified or lost large areas of urban estuaries. </p>



<p>These countries could serve as a warning for developing nations, and acting soon to conserve estuaries is an opportunity to protect their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-ecosystems-store-much-more-greenhouse-gas-than-they-emit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental</a> and economic benefits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-carbon-footprint-and-estuary-loss">Measuring carbon footprint and estuary loss</h2>



<p>The study, published in the AGU journal <em>Earth's Future</em>, used <a href="https://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Landsat</a> remote sensing data from 1984 to 2019 to identify 2,396 estuaries around the world that were large enough to measure with satellite imagery (those with mouths wider than 90 meters, or 295 feet). </p>



<p>Nearly half (47%) of these large estuaries are in Asia, and the dataset includes estuaries on all major land masses except Antarctica and Greenland. The researchers also identified land-use changes, including land conversion and dam building.</p>



<p>The team then measured the change in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">estuarine surface</a> area and compared those changes to where land reclamation and dam building had occurred. </p>



<p>For the studied estuaries, between 1984 and 2019, humans converted 1,027 square kilometers (397 square miles, or 250,000 acres) of estuary to urban or agricultural lands in a process called land reclamation. </p>



<p>Land reclamation, which can include drying land and adding sediment to build land, accounted for 20% of estuary loss. Globally, humans altered 44% of the estuaries with dams and/or land reclamation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-development-linked-to-estuary-loss">Economic development linked to estuary loss</h2>



<p>To explore the relationship between estuary gain or loss and economic development, the researchers compared countries' gross income per capita to land reclamation and estuary area. </p>



<p>They also analyzed historical maps of high-income countries to find evidence of earlier <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-coastal-ecosystems-can-mitigate-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">estuary alteration</a> and included 8 case studies of low-, middle-, and high-income countries' estuary loss.</p>



<p>Middle-income countries lost the most estuarine area during the study period, and almost 90% of all land reclamation (921 square kilometers, or 356 square miles) occurred there, too. "As a country is transitioning to middle-income, they tend to increase development," Lee said.</p>



<p>High-income countries lost little estuary area over the study period. In most cases, that's because estuary alteration occurred decades earlier when they were in developing, middle-income statuses. </p>



<p>In those countries today, the focus has moved from development to environmental conservation efforts -- attempts to undo the environmental damage that estuarine development caused.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunities-for-developing-countries">Opportunities for developing countries</h2>



<p>The findings highlight the opportunities developing countries have to minimize the negative environmental and economic impacts of degraded estuaries while balancing their own economic and development needs. </p>



<p>Lee emphasized that acting soon to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-based-solutions-improve-coastal-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conserve estuaries</a> is an opportunity for developing countries to protect their environmental and economic benefits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecology-and-economics-of-estuaries">Ecology and economics of Estuaries</h2>



<p>Estuaries host an incredible diversity of life, serving as nurseries for countless species of fish, shellfish, and other marine organisms. </p>



<p>The mixing of freshwater and saltwater creates a nutrient-rich environment that supports complex food webs and provides shelter and feeding grounds for a wide array of wildlife, including migratory birds, mammals, and reptiles.</p>



<p>In addition to their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-wetlands-are-inching-closer-to-extinction-as-the-world-heats-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological significance</a>, estuaries contribute substantially to local and global economies. They serve as natural harbors and ports, facilitating trade and transportation. </p>



<p>Estuaries also support thriving fishing and shellfish industries, as well as recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife watching, which generate billions of dollars annually.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-estuaries-for-future-generations">Preserving estuaries for future generations</h2>



<p>Estuaries act as natural buffers against storms, floods, and erosion, protecting coastal communities and infrastructure. </p>



<p>The wetland vegetation and intricate root systems found in estuaries help absorb wave energy, stabilize shorelines, and filter pollutants from the water, maintaining the health and resilience of coastal ecosystems.</p>



<p>To ensure that estuaries continue to thrive and provide their invaluable services, it is essential that we prioritize their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-squeeze-americas-tidal-flats-are-threatened-by-urban-expansion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation and restoration</a>. </p>



<p>This involves implementing sustainable land-use practices, reducing pollution, and promoting public awareness about the importance of these ecosystems. </p>



<p>By working together to protect and preserve estuaries, we can safeguard these vital links between land and sea for generations to come.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-estuaries-carbon-and-earth-s-environmental-future">Estuaries, carbon, and Earth's environmental future</h2>



<p>In summary, the study by Guan-hong Lee and his team at Inha University in South Korea reveals the alarming extent of global estuary loss due to dams and land reclamation activities, particularly in rapidly developing countries. </p>



<p>The findings underscore the urgent need for developing nations to balance their economic growth with the protection of these vital ecosystems, learning from the experiences of developed countries that have already suffered the consequences of estuary degradation. </p>



<p>By taking proactive measures to conserve estuaries, developing countries can safeguard the environmental and economic benefits these wetlands provide, ensuring a more sustainable future for generations to come.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023EF003691">Earth’s Future</a></em>.</p>



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Humans are rapidly transforming carbon-storing estuaries into cities

Estuaries, the vital wetland ecosystems and carbon sinks that connect...

<p>Did you know that something as simple as living near <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-are-beneficial-for-childrens-lung-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green spaces</a> full of trees, grass, and parks could lead to greater emotional well-being in children? A new study suggests that it very well could. </p>



<p>Researchers have found that kids who grow up with nature nearby tend to have fewer emotional problems in their preschool years. This fascinating discovery has us asking: could a daily dose of outdoor adventure be a key to better mental health in the critical years of early development?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-spaces-happy-emotional-states-in-children">Green spaces, happy emotional states in children</h2>



<p>The study, which received funding from the National Institutes of Health (<a href="https://www.nih.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIH</a>), involved a large and diverse group of children from all over the United States. This broad scale allowed the researchers to draw stronger conclusions about how green spaces might affect overall childhood wellbeing.</p>



<p>The team used a fascinating approach to gather information. They employed satellite data to measure the amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-green-space-linked-to-adhd-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green space</a> surrounding each child's home. This includes vibrant natural areas like parks, forests, or even backyards with lots of trees and plants.</p>



<p>Once the researchers had a picture of how much nature each child was exposed to, they combined this information with parent reports detailing the child's emotional state and any behavioral concerns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-spaces-and-better-emotional-health">Green spaces and better emotional health</h2>



<p>The analysis revealed a clear pattern: children who lived in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-green-space-reduces-oxidative-stress-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greener environments</a> from birth had a decreased likelihood of experiencing anxiety or depression in their preschool years (ages 2 to 5).</p>



<p>Dr. Nissa Towe-Goodman is an ECHO researcher from the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the <a href="https://www.unc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a>, Chapel Hill. </p>



<p>"Our research supports existing evidence that being in nature is good for kids," said Dr. Towe-Goodman. "It also suggests that the early childhood years are a crucial time for exposure to green spaces.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-spaces-and-emotional-well-being-in-children">Green spaces and emotional well-being in children</h2>



<p>While the link between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-are-beneficial-for-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green spaces</a> and our emotional well-being isn't new, understanding <em>why</em> it works is exciting. Here are a few theories:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improved-brain-activity">Improved brain activity</h3>



<ul>
<li>A quieter environment:&nbsp;Green spaces like parks and forests tend to be naturally quieter than busy streets or homes filled with electronic devices. This reduced noise and distraction provides our brains with a much-needed break, allowing for relaxation and improved focus.</li>



<li>Reduced sensory overload:&nbsp;In addition to being quieter, the natural sights and sounds we experience outdoors are often less overwhelming than the constant stimulation of screens, crowds, and traffic. This helps lower levels of stress and anxiety, which can be especially beneficial to young children.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-joy-of-exploring">The joy of exploring</h3>



<ul>
<li>Active play:&nbsp;Natural environments invite exploration and active play in a unique way. Trees are there to be climbed, puddles demand to be splashed in, and sticks and rocks become tools for imaginative building projects. This encourages healthy physical activity and supports a child's overall development.</li>



<li>Creativity:&nbsp;Unlike highly structured playgrounds, nature offers open-ended possibilities. With no set rules, children can use their imaginations to invent games, build their own worlds, and follow their curiosity. This freedom boosts creativity and problem-solving skills.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sense-of-wonder">A sense of wonder</h2>



<ul>
<li>Observation and discovery:&nbsp;The natural world is full of surprises - from tiny insects to awe-inspiring weather patterns. Observing and interacting with these elements fosters a deep sense of wonder and teaches children about the world around them.</li>



<li>Appreciation of the simple:&nbsp;Nature highlights the beauty found in things like a colorful bug, a uniquely shaped rock, or a bird in flight. These joyful encounters nurture an appreciation for the everyday marvels that might otherwise be ignored in a busy, technology-driven world.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-about-older-children">What about older children?</h2>



<p>The study's findings were specific to younger children (ages 2 to 5) and did not show the same strong connection between green spaces and mental health in older children (ages 6 to 11). </p>



<p>Preschool-aged children are less independent and tend to spend the majority of their time within their immediate neighborhood. The amount of green space directly around their home likely has a significant impact on their regular exposure to nature.</p>



<p>Once children reach school age, their world broadens. School field trips, family outings, sports activities, and time spent at friends' homes might take them out to a variety of natural settings further away from their primary residence. This means the greenness around their house may be a less important factor in their overall nature experience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-green-spaces-wisely">Using green spaces wisely</h2>



<p>Now that we know green spaces can be beneficial for emotional well-being, how can we make them a bigger part of daily life with children? Here are some actionable ideas:</p>



<ul>
<li>Make green space a priority:&nbsp;Intentionally schedule visits to parks, trails, or other natural areas into your family's routine. Even if it's just a quick walk around a green neighborhood, frequent exposure is valuable.</li>



<li>Turn exploration into a game:&nbsp;Nature scavenger hunts are an easy way to make outdoor time more engaging. Create a simple list of things to find (a pinecone, a smooth rock, a yellow flower) or focus on spotting wildlife like birds and squirrels.</li>



<li>Embrace the mess:&nbsp;While it might feel tempting to keep kids pristine, fighting against a little dirt is often counterproductive. Allow kids to dig, splash, and get messy – that's how they connect most deeply with the natural environment.</li>



<li>Support green initiatives:&nbsp;Your individual actions matter, but there's power in collective effort. Be a voice for preserving and expanding green spaces in your community. This could involve planting trees, volunteering at a local park cleanup, or supporting organizations that protect natural areas.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions">Future directions</h2>



<p>"In the future, researchers could look into what kinds of experiences in nature are connected to kids' early mental health," said Dr. Towe-Goodman. "Also, we should study how creating or preserving natural areas around homes and schools might make a difference in a child's mental health.”</p>



<p>While more research is needed, this discovery is a wonderful reminder of the power of the outdoors. When we give children the space to explore nature at their own pace, something beautiful blooms – and not just wildflowers.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em>JAMA Network Open</em>.</p>



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Green spaces near homes reduce emotional problems in children

Did you know that something as simple as living near...

<p>We all make food choices every day. But did you know those choices can affect not only your health but also the health of the planet? A recent study out of the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a> has researchers thinking about the food we eat a little differently. The experts are not just looking at basic food groups – they're studying the carbon impacts of dishes and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-farming-could-increase-food-productivity-and-reduce-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mixed diet</a> as a whole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-focus-on-individual-dishes">Why focus on individual dishes?</h2>



<p>How we relate to food is cultural. The ingredients available, the way food is prepared, and the cultural significance of meals vary drastically from place to place. </p>



<p>A traditional Italian tomato-based pasta relies on different resources and creates different environmental impacts compared to a Japanese seafood-based pasta dish.</p>



<p>Focusing on complete dishes helps researchers understand how people&nbsp;<em>actually</em>&nbsp;eat and what choices are realistic within a specific culture. By studying dishes, we gain more precise knowledge. That knowledge empowers consumers to select specific meals that improve both their own health and the health of the planet.</p>



<p>"Our main conclusion is this: Mixed diets can offer good health and environmental outcomes," said study lead author Professor Yin Long. "This is because mixed diets can afford consumers a larger diversity of dishes that can meet both nutritional requirements and have low <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-dietary-changes-could-offset-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> footprints."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-mixed-diet-nbsp">What is a "mixed diet"?&nbsp;</h2>



<p>A mixed diet includes a balanced variety of foods from all of the food groups. </p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Fruits and vegetables</strong>: These nutritional powerhouses offer vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants which are crucial for good health.<br></li>



<li><strong>Whole grains</strong>: Opt for whole grains (brown rice, whole-wheat bread, oats) over refined versions. They provide sustained energy, fiber, and important nutrients.<br></li>



<li><strong>Lean proteins</strong>: Think chicken, fish, beans, tofu, or lentils. These sources of protein help build and repair body tissue.<br></li>



<li><strong>Healthy fats</strong>: Found in foods like nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil. These fats are important for heart health, brain function, and keep you feeling full.</li>
</ul>



<p>But how do we know which dishes within those diets are the "best" choices? The University of Tokyo study has some insights.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-footprint-of-mixed-diet">Carbon footprint of mixed diet</h2>



<p>The researchers analyzed 45 popular Japanese dishes, breaking them down by ingredient, cooking time, and, crucially, their environmental impact.</p>



<p>You might be surprised to learn that some plant-based dishes, while low in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-science-behind-a-smoothie-the-fruit-you-choose-makes-a-difference/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> emissions, didn't pack the same nutritional punch as one might expect. This is where the research gets helpful. It identifies those healthy, eco-friendly dishes and gives us tools to find similar foods in our own regional cuisines.</p>



<p>“We believe dish-based approaches can inform better the day-to-day organization of food consumption... by acting as a reality check to inform, design, and convey feasible and acceptable ways to steer dietary habits toward more sustainable directions,” said study co-author Professor Alexandros Gasparatos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixed-diets-with-a-lower-carbon-footprint">Mixed diets with a lower carbon footprint</h2>



<p>The beauty of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-dietary-shifts-could-keep-global-climate-goals-within-reach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mixed diet</a> is that with a few simple shifts, we can make a difference by reducing our carbon footprint</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-become-a-label-detective">Become a label detective</h3>



<p>Ingredient lists and nutritional information on packaged foods tell you a lot. Look for terms like "whole grain," prioritize shorter ingredient lists, and be mindful of things like added sugars and sodium content.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expand-your-recipe-repertoire">Expand your recipe repertoire</h3>



<p>Don't be afraid to experiment. There are countless resources online and in cookbooks with delicious, healthy recipes that use a wide range of ingredients. A bit of exploring can lead to wonderful discoveries.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choose-sustainable-businesses">Choose sustainable businesses</h3>



<p>When eating out or shopping for groceries, consider businesses that make sustainability a priority. Ask about locally sourced ingredients, inquire about their food waste policies, or look for certifications that show ethical practices.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remember-small-steps-matter">Remember, small steps matter</h3>



<p>You don't have to overhaul your entire diet overnight. Even small changes, like replacing one processed snack with some fruit or trying a new vegetarian recipe once a week, add up over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-mixed-diets-reduce-carbon-emissions">How do mixed diets reduce carbon emissions?</h2>



<p>A mixed food <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-environmental-impacts-of-various-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> lowers carbon emissions primarily by diversifying the sources of food we consume. Here's how it works in more detail:</p>



<ol>
<li><strong>Reduced reliance on meat</strong>: Meat, especially red meat, has a high carbon footprint due to methane emissions from livestock and the energy-intensive nature of meat production. By incorporating more plant-based options, mixed diets can significantly reduce carbon emissions.<br></li>



<li><strong>Efficient use of resources</strong>: Plant-based foods generally require less water and land than animal-based foods. A diet that includes a variety of plant-based dishes can lead to more efficient use of resources and lower emissions.<br></li>



<li><strong>Variety leads to sustainability</strong>: Mixed diets encourage the consumption of a wider range of foods, which can include locally sourced and seasonally available produce. This reduces the need for transportation and the associated carbon emissions.<br></li>



<li><strong>Optimization of nutrient intake without excess</strong>: By focusing on the nutritional value and environmental impact of individual dishes, mixed diets can optimize nutrient intake without the excess associated with some high-carbon foods, thereby reducing waste and emissions.<br></li>



<li><strong>Encourages mindful eating practices</strong>: Mixed diets also promote mindfulness about food choices, encouraging consumers to consider the environmental impact of their meals. This awareness can lead to choices that are both nutritionally beneficial and lower in carbon footprint.</li>
</ol>



<p>By diversifying our diet, we can support food production systems that are generally more sustainable and have a lower environmental impact.</p>



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



<p>Taking these kinds of actions builds awareness and makes you an informed consumer. Not only are you making better choices for your body, but you're also sending a message. Your choices can influence the food industry and push for the broader changes needed for a healthier planet.</p>



<p>“Varying cultural preferences and ingredient availability lead to radically different ways to build healthy and sustainable diets between different countries and local contexts," said Gasparatos.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adh1077" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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Mixed diets offer health benefits and lower carbon footprint

We all make food choices every day. But did you...

<p>Cane <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brazilian-flea-toad-worlds-smallest-vertebrate-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toads</a> hopped onto the Australian scene in the 1930s, promising to fix a beetle problem for sugarcane farmers. The catch? These toads have poison glands that make them deadly snacks for unsuspecting predators. Young cane <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-toad-species-madagascar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toads</a>, it turns out, can teach native animal species to avoid the fatal mistake of consuming them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-problem-with-cane-toads">The problem with cane toads</h2>



<p>If you're a big predator in Australia, cane toads are bad news. Apex predators like goannas (large monitor lizards), crocodiles, and some snakes love a juicy toad snack. </p>



<p>The problem is that cane toads are walking poison sacs. If an animal tries to eat a full-grown cane toad, they don't just get a tummy ache – the poison can very quickly kill them.</p>



<p>When hungry predators vanish, the consequences are disastrous for the entire ecosystem. With no predators to keep them in check, smaller animals like snakes and other lizards multiply, putting pressure on the smaller frogs and insects they prey upon. It's a domino effect that can throw the delicate balance of nature completely out of whack.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-cane-toads-teach-goannas">Young cane toads teach goannas</h2>



<p>Dr. Georgia Ward-Fear, a wildlife biologist at <a href="https://www.mq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Macquarie University</a>, has spent years researching <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cane-toads-swallow-their-tongue-when-they-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cane toads</a> and the devastation they cause. Her studies uncovered an intriguing possibility: young cane toads could help goannas learn a vital survival lesson. </p>



<p>Young cane toads possess less potent poison in their glands than adult toads. If a goanna eats a young toad, the poison will make it sick, but won't be fatal. This negative experience teaches the goanna to avoid cane toads in the future. </p>



<p>Dr. Ward-Fear describes this as "ecological immunization," as it provides the goannas with a form of resistance against the cane toad's deadly poison.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unleashing-the-teacher-toads">Unleashing the teacher toads</h2>



<p>This fascinating discovery got Dr. Ward-Fear thinking – could she use this immunization to save goanna populations on a bigger scale? And so began a remarkable project.</p>



<p>Teaming up with Professor Rick Shine, an evolutionary biologist, and many other organizations, they formed the <a href="https://www.canetoadcoalition.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cane Toad Coalition</a>. Together, they set out to test her theory in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, right at the frontline of the cane toad invasion.</p>



<p>The plan involved releasing hundreds of "taster toads" – tiny baby cane <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/losing-the-harlequin-toad-means-losing-potential-medicines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toads</a> – just before the big, poisonous adult toads arrived in an area. It was like setting up a mini-classroom for the local goannas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-did-it-work">Did it work?</h2>



<p>The results of this strategy were striking. In locations where researchers released the young teacher cane toads, ahead of the invasive cane toad front, goanna populations remained stable or even increased. </p>



<p>This is a significant finding, especially when compared to areas without this intervention. In those areas, goanna populations experienced devastating declines of up to 94% after the arrival of the highly poisonous adult cane toads.</p>



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



<p>This study tracked Australia's biggest cane <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-drugs-secreted-from-toad-skin-greatly-improve-cognitive-functioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toad</a> defense project so far. It could be beneficial for the following:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Protecting a vital link in the food web</strong>: Goannas, as apex predators, play a crucial role in maintaining balanced ecosystems. They help regulate the populations of smaller animals, preventing any single species from becoming too numerous. Their disappearance can destabilize the entire food web.<br></li>



<li><strong>Long-term benefits</strong>: The initial "toad training" may have lasting effects. When trained goannas reproduce, their offspring may instinctively avoid cane toads, inheriting this survival advantage.<br></li>



<li><strong>Beyond just goannas</strong>: The success of this technique offers hope for protecting other native Australian predators vulnerable to cane toad poison. It could be adapted to help other species learn to avoid these toxic invaders.<br></li>



<li><strong>A shift in conservation strategy</strong>: This project highlights a new approach in conservation. Instead of solely focusing on eradicating invasive species (which is often incredibly difficult or impossible), the emphasis shifts to helping native wildlife adapt and survive alongside the invaders.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-and-future-directions">Limitations and future directions</h2>



<p>It's impossible to send "teacher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cane-toads-make-long-distance-calls-for-love/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toads</a>" everywhere across the Australian tropics. However, this technique could save populations of goannas in key areas, allowing them to survive and hopefully repopulate areas where they've been wiped out.</p>



<p>Dr. Ward-Fear's research is changing how we think about conservation. Clever behavioral training could be a vital tool in protecting wildlife from invasive species the world over. Who knew these toxic toads could teach us such a valuable lesson?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-cane-toads-beyond-teaching">More about cane toads beyond teaching</h2>



<p>Cane toads' impact extends beyond direct poisoning of native predators; they also compete with local species for food and habitat, exacerbating their invasive threat. </p>



<p>They are omnivorous and consume a wide range of foods - from insects and small animals to pet food left outside - often outcompeting native species for these resources. This competition for food can lead to a decrease in the populations of native species that rely on the same food sources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cane-toads-and-humans">Cane toads and humans</h3>



<p>Another less discussed aspect is their effect on human activities. Cane toads have been known to cause power outages by short-circuiting electrical equipment, including substations and domestic air conditioners, when they seek warmth. </p>



<p>Their prolific numbers and willingness to inhabit human-modified landscapes mean they can also become a nuisance in residential areas, impacting gardens and local fauna.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cane-toads-and-disease">Cane toads and disease</h3>



<p>The toads' ability to spread diseases to native amphibians and other species adds another layer of complexity to their impact. Cane toads carry and transmit diseases such as chytridiomycosis, which affects native amphibian populations, further endangering them.</p>



<p>Efforts to control cane toad populations have included physical removal, traps, and the exploration of biological control methods, though finding an effective and ecologically safe solution has proven challenging. </p>



<p>The adaptability of cane toads, combined with Australia's vast and varied landscapes, makes their management a significant conservation challenge.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/conl.13012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Letters</a></em>.</p>



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Cane toads teach other animals to avoid their poison

Cane toads hopped onto the Australian scene in the 1930s,...

<p>The Biden administration has made a historic move by finalizing strict limits on certain "forever chemicals" in drinking water, marking a first in national drinking water standards. The chemicals in question, known as PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances), have been linked to a myriad of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-encourage-cancer-to-spread-around-the-body/">health issues</a>, including cancers, and are notorious for their persistence in the environment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The decisive action by the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Protection Agency</a> (EPA) mandates utilities to reduce these chemicals to the lowest levels that can be reliably measured, impacting the water quality for an estimated 100 million Americans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-use-of-pfas">Widespread use of PFAS</h2>



<p>PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used across a wide range of products - from nonstick pans to firefighting foams - due to their water and oil repellant properties.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite their widespread use, PFAS are incredibly resilient, failing to degrade in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-dolphins-suffer-from-the-highest-known-levels-of-pfas/">natural environment</a> and accumulating over time. This has led to widespread environmental contamination and significant concerns over their impact on human health, including associations with low birth weight, liver disease, and various cancers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-forever-chemicals-targeted">Types of forever chemicals targeted</h2>



<p>The new rule targets specifically two common types of forever chemicals, PFOA and PFOS, limiting their presence in drinking water to four parts per trillion. </p>



<p>Additionally, the initiative sets limits for three other types of PFAS in drinking water, including GenEx Chemicals, to 10 parts per trillion. This is in direct response to concerns about their prevalence and toxicity, particularly highlighted in regions like North Carolina.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-changing-rule-on-pfas">Life-changing rule on PFAS</h2>



<p>EPA Administrator Michael Regan says the rule is the most important action the EPA has ever taken on PFAS. “The result is a comprehensive and life-changing rule, one that will improve the health and vitality of so many communities across our country,” said Regan.</p>



<p>The initiative aims to significantly reduce exposure to PFAS in drinking water and the associated health risks. The rule is anticipated to cost about $1.5 billion annually to implement, but is expected to prevent nearly 10,000 deaths over the coming decades and substantially decrease incidences of serious illnesses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerns-and-financial-implications-nbsp">Concerns and financial implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>However, this landmark rule has not been met without contention. Water utilities have raised concerns over the financial implications of installing treatment systems to meet these new standards. The costs, they argue, are steep and will inevitably be passed on to consumers, potentially exacerbating inequities for small communities with fewer resources.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The American Water Works Association, representing the industry, has critiqued the EPA's cost estimates and highlighted challenges, including a shortage of skilled workers and filtration materials.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pervasive-threat-of-pfas">Pervasive threat of PFAS</h2>



<p>Despite these challenges, the need for stringent PFAS limits has been echoed by health and environmental advocates. The move to regulate these chemicals at such low levels reflects a growing recognition of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-are-an-underestimated-source-of-water-contamination/">pervasive threat</a> and the necessity of decisive action to protect public health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Associated Press reports that last June, a utility outside Philadelphia that serves nearly 9,000 people learned that one of its wells had a PFOA level of 235 parts per trillion. This was one of the highest known concentrations in the country at the time, and the source of the contamination is still unknown.</p>



<p>“I mean, obviously, it was a shock,” said Joseph Hastings, director of the joint public works department for the Collegeville and Trappe boroughs. Hastings noted that installing treatment systems could be a multi-million dollar endeavor, a major expense for a small customer base.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-confidence-in-drinking-water-nbsp">Public confidence in drinking water&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The new regulation is “going to throw public confidence in drinking water into chaos,” said Mike McGill, president of WaterPIO, a water industry communications firm.</p>



<p>Support for the rule extends beyond the realms of public health and environmental protection, touching on personal stories of loss and activism.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The family of Amara Strande, a young woman whose death from a rare cancer has been attributed by her family to PFAS exposure, represents a poignant example of the human toll behind the statistics. Their involvement in advocating for stricter PFAS regulations speaks to the broader impact of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/skiers-are-spreading-pfas-forever-chemicals-around-the-worlds-mountains/">chemicals</a> on communities and the importance of the Biden administration's initiative.</p>



<p>As the nation moves to implement these new standards, the efforts will undoubtedly face hurdles, including legal challenges and the logistical complexities of upgrading water treatment systems. Yet, the establishment of the first-ever national limit on PFAS in drinking water marks a significant step forward in the ongoing battle to safeguard <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-containers-may-release-forever-chemicals-into-food/">public health</a> from these contaminants.</p>



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



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Strict PFAS limits will make drinking water safer for 100 million Americans

The Biden administration has made a historic move by finalizing...

<p>Climate change and its financial repercussions on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a> are at the forefront of a recent study from the <a href="https://gps.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy</a>. </p>



<p>Offering new insights, this research plays a crucial role. It aids global efforts to ensure food security and financial resilience amid increasing climate-related disasters.</p>



<p>"Effective policies for adaptation to climate change require understanding how impacts are related to exposures and vulnerability, the dimensions of the climate system that will change most and where human impacts will be most draconian, and the institutions best suited to respond," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>"Here, we propose a simple method for more credibly pairing empirical statistical damage estimates derived from recent weather and outcome observations with projected future climate changes and proposed responses."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-financial-impact-of-climate-change-on-agriculture">Financial impact of climate change on agriculture</h2>



<p>The study zeroes in on Brazil's agricultural sector. It shows how climate change disrupts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-our-way-out-of-the-climate-crisis-with-farm-free-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farming</a>, leading to a significant rise in loan defaults.</p>



<p>Consequently, this raises significant concerns for one of the country's largest public sector banks. It could face a surge in climate-driven loan defaults, potentially increasing by up to seven percent over the next thirty years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regional-responses-to-climate-change">Regional responses to climate change</h2>



<p>The research also highlights the varied impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/financial-loss-from-hurricanes-could-triple-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> change across different regions. It emphasizes the importance of developing tailored resilience strategies. </p>



<p>For instance, northern Brazil may face more severe seasonal fluctuations, requiring improved water storage solutions. Conversely, the need to adapt to higher temperatures in central Brazil challenges the region to develop heat-resistant crops.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-agriculture-and-finance">Impacts on agriculture and finance</h2>



<p>For the analysis, the study authors combined historical climate and agricultural productivity data with climate simulations. This innovative approach enabled the experts to forecast future weather conditions and their implications for agriculture and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/7-trillion-invested-every-year-in-products-and-activities-that-directly-harm-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">financial</a> institutions.</p>



<p>"A difficulty in studying climate impacts on agriculture is that there are all sorts of adaptations happening all the time that aren’t easily observed," explained study co-author Professor Jennifer Burney. "But these adaptations are really important for understanding vulnerability and how risk is changing."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-applications-of-local-insights">Global applications of local insights</h2>



<p>Study co-author Professor Craig McIntosh elaborated on the study's objectives. "The technique we developed will help populations identify where they are most vulnerable, how climate change will hurt them the most economically, and what institutions they should focus on to build resilience."</p>



<p>This approach could guide governments in making informed decisions about relying on local, regional, or international institutions for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-climate-adaptation-lacks-coordination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate adaptation</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-financing-climate-resilience">Financing climate resilience</h2>



<p>The findings are relevant to the implementation of the loss and damage fund established by the United Nations in 2022. The fund is designed to compensate developing nations that are disproportionately affected by climate change.</p>



<p>Professor Krislert Samphantharak emphasized the potential of this research to maximize the efficacy of funds allocated for resilience-building, including the strategic use of international reinsurance.</p>



<p>The study offers a vital resource for policymakers, disaster relief agencies, and financial institutions around the world. It helps them to more effectively prepare for and reduce the financial effects of climate change on agriculture. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-policy-recommendations">Policy recommendations</h2>



<p>Drawing on the study's insights, targeted policy actions could be utilized to counteract the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and finance. These include:</p>



<ol>
<li>Enhanced support for climate-resilient agriculture: Invest in research and development of crops that can withstand extreme weather, alongside modernizing irrigation to conserve water. Support for these initiatives can come through grants, subsidies, or tax incentives.</li>



<li>Infrastructure upgrades: Bolstering infrastructure, such as flood defenses and water storage systems, can protect agricultural lands from the worst effects of climate variability and change.</li>



<li>Financial instruments for risk management: Encourage the creation and use of insurance products and financial instruments that help farmers and banks manage the risks associated with climate change more effectively.</li>



<li>Education and training programs: Implement educational programs for farmers on sustainable farming practices and climate adaptation strategies to enhance resilience at the grassroots level.</li>



<li>Policy frameworks for sustainable farming: Develop and enforce policy frameworks that promote sustainable farming practices, reducing agriculture's environmental footprint and improving its resilience to climate change.</li>
</ol>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2215677121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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



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Climate change imposes financial burden on global agriculture

Climate change and its financial repercussions on agriculture are at...

<p>A survey of orchid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/save-native-bees/">bees</a> in the Brazilian Amazon state of Rondônia, conducted in the 1990s, is casting new light on the effects of deforestation on these important pollinators, which are considered indicators of biodiversity in the neotropics.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The latest study, led by the <a href="https://ku.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kansas</a>, highlights the resilience and vulnerability of these scent-collecting bees amidst environmental change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collecting-orchid-bees-nbsp">Collecting orchid bees&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“This study on orchid bees was an add-on to previous research on stingless bees. Orchid bees are so easy to collect, so we added them to our broader survey of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-diversity-is-critical-to-ecosystems/">bee biodiversity</a> across this rapidly developing region in the Amazon,” said study lead author J. Christopher Brown, a geography &amp; atmospheric science professor at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We’ve known for decades that particular fragrances like eucalyptus oil, for example, attract male orchid bees, which naturally collect similar fragrances from orchids to use in mating. All you do is dip cotton balls into a variety of chemical attractants and hang these on a string in the open air.”</p>



<p>“The bees start arriving in minutes, hovering around the baits and displaying their often metallic-hued blue and green colors. They were among the first types of organisms studied to understand the impact of that deforestation on the general biology and ecology of an area.”&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The experts pinpointed specific orchid bee species that thrive in both degraded and preserved environments, offering insight into how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/">deforestation</a> influences local ecosystems.</p>



<p>“I had previously seen orchid bees in museum collections, but seeing them in the field was a wholly different experience. It’s breathtaking seeing these bees appear at the baits out of nowhere,” Brown added.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This fieldwork, conducted in collaboration with Marcio Oliveira of the <a href="https://www.gov.br/inpa/pt-br">National Institute for Amazonian Research</a>, led to the collection of significant data on orchid bees across Rondônia, utilizing a unique method that diverged from traditional yearlong studies focused on forest fragments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-look-at-orchid-bee-diversity">Comprehensive look at orchid bee diversity</h2>



<p>Despite the historical nature of the data, its value remains intact, offering a comprehensive look at orchid bee diversity across a broad geographic area. This work serves as a critical baseline for future biodiversity studies in the region.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“While conventional studies involve yearlong collection efforts in a handful of forest fragments, we sampled the bee population in 130 locations across the state in just an hour at each location. This unconventional approach revealed a wealth of bee diversity previously undocumented by others.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-for-lower-deforestation-rates">Hope for lower deforestation rates </h2>



<p>However, the findings also highlighted the detrimental effects of agricultural colonization on bee populations. Brown suggested that conservation efforts might hinge on Brazil's internal politics and economics but also mentioned market-oriented strategies that have shown promise in reducing deforestation.</p>



<p>“We are optimistic that stricter enforcement of environmental laws under Brazil’s new administration will lead to lower deforestation rates in the Amazon,” said Brown. “Our research highlighted the substantial reduction in deforestation resulting from these agreements.”</p>



<p>“In light of this, the question arises: What actions can consumers take? Many of these initiatives are led by prominent environmental organizations that wield influence with both industry and government. When these organizations yield tangible results, individuals may consider contributing to support their endeavors, particularly if the cause aligns with their interests and is scientifically backed. Such contributions can make a discernible impact."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-orchid-bees">More about orchid bees</h2>



<p>Orchid bees are a fascinating group of bees, known scientifically as Euglossini, that are native to the Americas. These bees are known for their striking metallic colors, which can range from vibrant greens and blues to purples and reds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle">Lifestyle</h3>



<p>Unlike many other bee species, orchid bees are solitary, meaning that they do not live in colonies. Each female bee lives and nests independently, constructing her nest in various natural cavities or in the ground.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mating-secrets">Mating secrets</h3>



<p>The male orchid bees are particularly known for their unique behavior of collecting fragrant compounds from orchids and other sources. They store these scents in specialized pouches in their hind legs, and it is believed that these scents play a crucial role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-make-it-harder-for-male-bees-to-attract-mates/">attracting mates</a>, although the exact mechanisms are still a subject of research.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orchids-nbsp">Orchids&nbsp;</h3>



<p>One of the most remarkable aspects of orchid bees is their relationship with orchids. Many species of orchids rely exclusively on these bees for pollination.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Orchid bees have long, coiled tongues, adapted for accessing nectar from the deep chambers of certain orchids. This mutualistic relationship highlights a fascinating example of co-evolution, where the bees and the orchids have evolved in tandem to meet each other's needs. The bees get food and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-bees-create-perfume-from-flowers-to-attract-females/">fragrance compounds</a>, while the orchids receive the benefit of specialized pollinators that ensure their reproduction.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation">Conservation</h3>



<p>Conservation efforts are vital for orchid bees, as they face threats from habitat destruction and fragmentation, which affect their food sources and nesting sites. Preserving tropical and subtropical forests, where these bees are predominantly found, is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring the survival of these unique pollinators and the diverse plant life they support.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110560" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Biological Conservation</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Orchid bees are endangered by deforestation in the Amazon

A survey of orchid bees in the Brazilian Amazon state...

<p>The ocean is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Sadly, it's sending out distress signals. A recent study suggests that climate change is wreaking far more havoc on marine life than we ever imagined. </p>



<p>Scientists are sounding the alarm that fish and invertebrates (like snails and sea urchins) are caught in the crosshairs, and the effects are profound.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-hidden-dangers-for-marine-life">Climate change: Hidden dangers for marine life</h2>



<p>"To gain a better understanding of the overall worldwide impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-sea-levels-spiked-dramatically-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, marine biologists calculate its effects on all fish or all invertebrate species lumped together," explained lead author Katharina Alter of the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (<a href="https://www.nioz.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIOZ</a>).</p>



<p>This approach to studying the impact of climate change on marine life aims to capture the overall impact across these broad categories. However, this method has a significant limitation. </p>



<p>Let's say climate change affects two different groups of marine animals in opposite ways. For example, warmer and more acidic waters might benefit one group by providing more food sources, while harming another by weakening their shells.</p>



<p>In such a scenario, the averaging approach could mask the true impact. The average result might show minimal change for the entire category, even though individual groups within it are experiencing significant positive or negative effects.</p>



<p>This is precisely what the new study by Dr. Alter and her team aims to address. Their method goes beyond simple averaging and instead focuses on how much individual species deviate from their normal biological state due to climate change. The result? A clearer picture of the damage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-climate-change-on-marine-life">Impact of climate change on marine life</h2>



<p>With the old method, scientists knew climate change impacts three key areas for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ripple-effects-of-climate-change-have-created-a-new-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> creatures: lowering survival chances, boosting metabolism, and harming the skeletons of invertebrates.</p>



<p>But this new analysis reveals the impact is broader:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physiology">Physiology</h3>



<p>Their basic bodily functions are disturbed. Changes in seawater could disrupt processes like temperature regulation, respiration (taking in oxygen), and waste removal. This is similar to how a human might struggle in extreme heat or at high altitudes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reproduction">Reproduction</h3>



<p>It may become harder to create the next generation. This is serious for species already struggling. Warmer waters and ocean acidification can disrupt reproductive cycles, decrease egg or larval survival, and even make it harder for adults to find mates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavior">Behavior</h3>



<p>How they find food, avoid predators - it all could change. Fish or invertebrates might need to change where they live, what they eat, and how they interact with other species. This can make them more vulnerable to predators or unable to find enough food for survival</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-development">Development</h3>



<p>How they grow and mature is altered. Some larvae (the baby stage of many ocean creatures) might not develop correctly in this new environment. Changes in ocean chemistry or temperature could lead to deformities, slower growth rates, or even make larvae more vulnerable to being eaten.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-change-in-even-one-species-matters">Why change in even one species matters</h2>



<p>"Both effects matter and even have cascading effects," noted Dr. Alter. Even seemingly small changes in one species can have far-reaching consequences.</p>



<p>For example, imagine climate change alters the feeding patterns of two grazers on the seafloor: sea snails and sea urchins. If sea snails start consuming more algae due to factors like warmer water temperatures, it disrupts the natural balance. </p>



<p>This means there's more algae available overall because the urchins, which typically feed heavily on algae, are now consuming less. While this shift might seem isolated, it can have a ripple effect throughout the ecosystem. </p>



<p>With increased algae comes a decline in kelp forests. Kelp forests are complex underwater ecosystems that provide food and shelter for many species. A decline in kelp could lead to a decrease in fish populations that rely on them for food and habitat.</p>



<p>This domino effect highlights how even seemingly minor changes in individual species can have cascading consequences that impact the entire marine environment. Dr. Alter's study emphasizes the importance of understanding these interconnected relationships to truly comprehend the impact of climate change on our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-substantially-changing-the-seasons-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predictions-of-marine-life-and-climate-change">Predictions of marine life and climate change</h2>



<p>The researchers examined how different levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide would influence the future health of our oceans. This is crucial because excess carbon dioxide from human activities (like burning fossil fuels) is the primary driver of both ocean warming and acidification.</p>



<p>"Our new approach suggests that if ocean warming and acidification continue on the current trajectory, up to 100% of the biological processes in fish and invertebrate species will be affected, while previous research methods found changes in only about 20 and 25% of all processes, respectively," noted Dr. Alter.</p>



<p>Importantly, the study also provides a crucial glimmer of hope. In a scenario where carbon dioxide emissions are significantly reduced, the percentage of affected biological processes drops dramatically. This underscores the power of human action; by mitigating climate change, we have the potential to protect vast swaths of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-sediments-predict-the-impacts-of-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-marine-life-from-climate-change">Saving marine life from climate change</h2>



<p>To save marine life from climate change, we must act on multiple fronts:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-carbon-footprint">Reduce carbon footprint</h3>



<p>Cut down greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to renewable energy sources, like wind, solar, and hydro power. Reducing your personal carbon footprint through lifestyle changes, such as using public transportation, conserving electricity, and eating a plant-based diet, can also contribute significantly.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protect-marine-life-from-climate-change">Protect marine life from climate change</h3>



<p>Establish and enforce marine protected areas (MPAs) to safeguard critical habitats, allowing ecosystems to recover and thrive. Restoration projects, such as coral reef restoration and mangrove planting, can also help buffer marine communities against climate change effects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promote-sustainable-fishing">Promote sustainable fishing</h3>



<p>Implement and support sustainable fishing practices to prevent overfishing, which weakens marine populations making them more susceptible to the stresses of climate change.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-pollution">Reduce pollution</h3>



<p>Combat ocean pollution by minimizing plastic use, properly disposing of hazardous materials, and supporting policies and initiatives aimed at keeping our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-may-be-accelerated-by-an-ocean-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans</a> clean.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-marine-science-and-conservation">Support marine science and conservation</h3>



<p>Fund and support scientific research focused on understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on marine life. Public support for conservation organizations working to protect the ocean can also make a big difference.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raise-awareness">Raise awareness</h3>



<p>Educate others about the impacts of climate change on marine life and what they can do to help. Awareness leads to action.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advocate-for-climate-action">Advocate for climate action</h3>



<p>Support policies and initiatives that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change on a global scale.</p>



<p>Collective action and changes in policy and personal behavior can significantly contribute to protecting marine life from the adverse effects of climate change.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-47064-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Climate change is impacting marine life more than we realized

The ocean is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Sadly,...

<p>The world has just experienced its hottest March on record, according to the European Union's <a href="https://climate.copernicus.eu/">Copernicus Climate Change Service</a> (C3S). </p>



<p>In a disturbing trend, each of the last ten <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/januarys-record-heat-marks-an-alarming-milestone/">months</a> has shattered previous records for warmth when compared with the corresponding months in prior years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acceleration-of-global-warming">Acceleration of global warming</h2>



<p>The latest C3S bulletin highlights the alarming acceleration of global warming, with implications that stretch across ecosystems, economies, and global health. The agency reports that the past 12 months, ending with March, have been the hottest 12-month period ever recorded.&nbsp;</p>



<p>From April 2023 to March 2024, the average global temperature was 1.58 degrees Celsius higher than the pre-industrial averages of 1850-1900. This unprecedented rise in temperatures is a clear indicator of the drastic shifts our planet is undergoing, moving far beyond normal variability and into a new, uncharted <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=Record%20heat&amp;start=0">climate regime</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-march-record-wasn-t-exceptional">March record wasn't exceptional</h2>



<p>Samantha Burgess, deputy director of Copernicus Climate Change&nbsp; Service, said March's record-breaking temperature wasn't as exceptional as some other months in the past year that broke records by wider margins.</p>



<p>"It's the long-term trend with exceptional records that has us very concerned,” noted Burgess. She highlighted the consistency of these temperature records as a clear indicator of a rapidly changing climate.</p>



<p>"We've had record-breaking months that have been even more unusual," Burgess said, pointing to February 2024 and September 2023. But the "trajectory is not in the right direction.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-speed-of-global-warming">Alarming speed of global warming</h2>



<p>The continuous setting of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-spring-follows-the-hottest-february-on-record/">temperature records</a> month after month serves as a stark reminder that our climate is not just changing, but doing so at an alarming speed.</p>



<p>This warming has had catastrophic effects worldwide, from unleashing a record number of wildfires in the Amazon rainforest region due to drought, exacerbated by climate change, to wiping out crops in Southern Africa, leaving millions facing hunger.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-coral-bleaching-event">Severe coral bleaching event</h2>



<p>One of the most immediate consequences of the rising temperatures is the mass coral bleaching event occurring in the Southern Hemisphere. Marine scientists have warned that this could potentially be the most severe bleaching event in recorded history, primarily driven by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-were-a-driving-force-behind-2023s-record-heat/">warming ocean waters</a>. </p>



<p>The profound impact of these temperature increases on marine ecosystems underscores the interconnectedness of climate systems and the far-reaching effects of global warming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biggest-driver-of-global-warming">Biggest driver of global warming </h2>



<p>The primary culprit behind this exceptional heat, according to C3S, is human-induced greenhouse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/">gas emissions</a>. While natural phenomena such as El Niño, which warms the surface waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean, have also contributed to the temperature rise, the enduring driver of this warming trend is the burning of fossil fuels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even as El Niño began to weaken, which might ordinarily signal a potential break in the heat escalation, the world's average sea surface temperature and marine air temperatures soared to record highs.</p>



<p>Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Imperial College London's Grantham Institute, stressed the pivotal role of fossil fuel emissions in driving planetary warming.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The main driver of the warming is fossil fuel emissions," said Otto, emphasizing that the continued increase in these emissions would lead to more extreme weather events, including droughts, fires, heatwaves, and heavy rainfall.</p>



<p>"We need more ambitious global action to ensure that we can get to net zero as soon as possible,” said Burgess.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-global-warming">Impacts of global warming</h2>



<p>The impacts of global warming are extensive and multifaceted, affecting nearly every aspect of life on Earth. As the planet's average temperature continues to rise, we're witnessing more than just hotter weather. The consequences are both far-reaching and deeply interconnected.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-threats">Ecological threats</h3>



<p>Ecologically, global warming is leading to a loss of biodiversity. Warmer temperatures disrupt habitats and ecosystems, making survival increasingly difficult for many species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Polar ice caps and glaciers are melting at unprecedented rates, contributing to rising sea levels and altering the landscapes of coastal communities. This not only threatens the natural habitats of countless species but also increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters like hurricanes and floods, which further endangers wildlife.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impacts">Human impacts</h3>



<p>The impacts on human societies are equally severe. Agriculture faces significant threats from changing weather patterns, with droughts, floods, and unpredictable temperatures affecting crop yields and food security. This, in turn, can lead to higher food prices and increased risk of hunger in vulnerable populations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, as habitats shift and extreme weather events become more common, human health is at risk from increasing incidences of diseases, heat-related illnesses, and respiratory problems due to poorer air quality.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-impacts">Economic impacts</h3>



<p>Economically, the repercussions of global warming are profound. Damage from extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods, requires substantial financial resources for recovery and rebuilding. Industries like agriculture, fishing, and tourism, heavily dependent on specific climate conditions, face uncertain futures, potentially leading to job losses and economic instability.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, the costs associated with mitigating climate change impacts and transitioning to renewable energy sources, while necessary for long-term sustainability, require significant upfront investment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-societal-impacts">Societal impacts</h3>



<p>Socially, the effects of global warming exacerbate existing inequalities. Often, the communities least responsible for carbon emissions are the most vulnerable to the planet's changing climate. Poorer communities and countries, which have fewer resources to adapt to climate change, face the greatest risks from its impacts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This can lead to increased migration, as people are forced to leave their homes due to sea-level rise, desertification, or extreme weather, potentially leading to conflict and further social unrest.</p>



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



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March was the hottest on record in alarming 10-month streak

The world has just experienced its hottest March on record,...

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

<p>The Great Barrier Reef, our planet's precious underwater ecosystem, has faced years of devastation due to rising water temperatures. Sadly, "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recent-coral-recovery-in-the-great-barrier-reef-has-paused/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral bleaching</a>," a stark visual sign of reef damage from warming waters, has become far too frequent in many areas and zones of coral reefs around the world.</p>



<p>However, a new study brings a complex mix of hope and warning: deeper parts of the reef seem to be somewhat shielded from the heat, but only up to a certain point.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-coral-reef-zones">Distinct coral reef zones</h2>



<p>Coral reefs consist of distinct zones. Each zone has conditions tied to light levels, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepest-known-coral-reef-bleaching-discovered-alarming-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water temperature</a>, and wave energy. </p>



<p>They also differ in aspects of warming and nutrient availability. These varying conditions shape the types of corals and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-reveal-the-health-of-coral-reefs-in-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other organisms</a> that can thrive in each zone.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shallow-reefs">Shallow reefs</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-discover-huge-expanse-of-earths-coral-reefs-that-were-previously-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">uppermost zone</a>, bathed in sunlight, is where most people think of when they picture a coral reef. This area is crucial for photosynthesis, allowing corals to partner with algae for energy. However, this zone is most vulnerable to extreme heat events driven by climate change.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mesophotic-reefs">Mesophotic reefs</h3>



<p>Scientists from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/">University of Exeter</a> and the <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Queensland</a> focused their research on a deeper zone called the "mesophotic coral reef." </p>



<p>This region exists in a twilight zone roughly 30-50 meters below the surface. Dimmer light penetrates to this depth, but it's significantly less than the shallow reefs receive.</p>



<p>Ocean water isn't static – currents, tides, and winds affect how different layers interact. Warmer surface water, driven hotter by climate change, doesn't always blend thoroughly with the naturally cooler water in deeper regions. </p>



<p>Fortunately, this incomplete mixing can create a temperature buffer, temporarily shielding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reef-plastic-pollution-increases-with-depth-and-near-protected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mesophotic reefs</a> from some of the immediate effects of surface-level warming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hope-and-the-catch">The hope (and the catch)</h2>



<p>"Coral reefs are a stark indicator of the widespread damage climate change causes to ecosystems," says Dr. Jennifer McWhorter of NOAA's Atlantic Oceanographic &amp; Meteorological Laboratory (<a href="https://www.aoml.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AOML</a>), who led the study. "Our study highlights a potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">area of resilience</a> within the reefs, but also a clear limit to that resilience if warming continues."</p>



<p>The news from the study isn't all positive. There's a crucial caveat: this natural buffer zone provided by incomplete water mixing won't last indefinitely. The research team warns that if global warming surpasses 3°C above pre-industrial levels, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-study-provides-answers-to-how-coral-reefs-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protective effect</a> will disappear.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-coral-reef-zone-temperature-differences">Maintaining coral reef zone temperature differences</h2>



<p>As global temperatures rise, the difference in temperature between surface and deep water layers lessens. This weaker thermal gradient reduces the resistance to mixing, allowing warmer surface water to penetrate deeper. </p>



<p>The result? Mesophotic reefs, once shielded, would become exposed to the same harmful heat currently stressing shallow reefs. </p>



<p>The study suggests that if global warming reaches 3°C, temperatures in mesophotic zones of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-finds-chlamydia-like-bacteria-in-great-barrier-reef-corals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Barrier Reef</a> would surpass 30°C. This is a critical threshold for many coral species. </p>



<p>Extended exposure to such temperatures can trigger widespread coral bleaching and mortality events. These die-offs could significantly disrupt the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-have-a-surprising-influence-on-coral-bleaching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef ecosystem</a>, impacting the entire food chain and potentially leading to reef collapse.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-coral-reef-zones-and-warming">Deep coral reef zones and warming</h2>



<p>While the existence of mesophotic reefs zones offers a glimmer of hope to warming, it's important to understand the limitations of this potential refuge. The shallow and deeper zones of a coral reef ecosystem are not interchangeable. </p>



<p>Certain coral species are specifically adapted to the high light levels found in the shallows. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/access-to-sunlight-is-critical-for-the-survival-of-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunlight-dependent corals</a>, often vibrantly colored and brimming with symbiotic algae, wouldn't be able to survive in the dimmer environment of the mesophotic zone. </p>



<p>Even if the deeper communities persevere through rising temperatures, the loss of these shallow-water species would still inflict a devastating blow on the overall biodiversity and health of the reef ecosystem. </p>



<p>Imagine a lush rainforest losing all its flowering trees – the ecosystem would still exist, but its character and ecological functions would be fundamentally altered. In essence, the potential survival of mesophotic reefs wouldn't guarantee the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-coral-reefs-can-bounce-back-in-just-four-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complete restoration</a> of the entire coral reef ecosystem.</p>



<p>"Some shallow-water species are not found in deeper areas, so mesophotic reefs can’t fully replace them as shallow reefs are degraded," notes Dr. McWhorter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warming-risks-on-mesophotic-reefs">Warming risks on mesophotic reefs</h2>



<p>To assess the future risk to mesophotic reefs, scientists employed a multi-faceted approach. They weaved together climate change projections, which predict the overall rise in global temperatures, with specific details about how the ocean layers in this region typically mix. </p>



<p>Factors like currents, tides, and wind patterns complexly influence this water mixing phenomenon. By incorporating these layers and their mixing tendencies, scientists were able to create a more nuanced picture of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-bleaching-releases-bacteria-that-put-further-strain-on-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future warming</a> might specifically affect the mesophotic zone of the Great Barrier Reef. </p>



<p>Their calculations paint a concerning scenario: even under the most optimistic outlook with reduced greenhouse gas emissions, these deeper zones are predicted to warm by at least 0.5°C by 2050-60. </p>



<p>This warming effect intensifies significantly if emissions remain high, with projections suggesting a temperature increase of 1.2-1.7°C in the mesophotic zone.</p>



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



<p>This research highlights the urgency of fighting climate change and the complex ways it disrupts ocean life. To save <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reef-study-proves-humans-are-major-ecosystem-disruptors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reef ecosystems</a>, we need a multifaceted strategy:</p>



<p>The study reaffirms the non-negotiable priority of drastically reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing the root cause of rising ocean temperatures is paramount for the survival of coral reefs, both shallow and mesophotic. </p>



<p>The longer we delay action on this front, the more widespread and severe the damage will be. By reducing emissions swiftly, we can buy precious time, allowing more areas of the reef to maintain the natural protection offered by their current temperature differences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-reefs-from-warming">Conservation of reefs from warming</h2>



<p>Dr. Paul Halloran of Exeter's Global Systems Institute (<a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/research/institutes/gsi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GSI</a>) stresses the need for targeted conservation efforts. This means focusing resources and management strategies on the reefs that exhibit the best chances of survival in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-oceans-intensify-viruses-that-kill-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming world</a>. </p>



<p>Identifying these potentially more resilient areas involves careful study of local conditions that might influence ocean mixing, as well as factors that can contribute to reef health even in the face of some warming. </p>



<p>By adopting this strategic approach, we can increase the likelihood of maintaining some pockets of healthy reef ecosystems despite the broader challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-knowledge-is-power">Knowledge is power</h2>



<p>Professor Peter Mumby of the University of Queensland emphasizes the vast amount we still have to learn about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-corals-survive-warming-waters-by-remembering-heat-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex environments</a> of deeper, tropical coral reefs. Expanding our scientific understanding of these ecosystems is crucial. </p>



<p>Identifying how they differ from shallow reefs is crucial. We need to understand why certain areas are more resilient. Discovering how they might be interconnected will equip us with the knowledge needed. </p>



<p>This knowledge is essential for informed and effective protection efforts. Research and ongoing monitoring will be vital tools in the fight to conserve coral reefs.</p>



<p>The Great Barrier Reef is a wonder of the world, and its plight is a call to action. This study provides a nuanced look at the situation, highlighting both some temporary resilience and the urgency of addressing the root cause.</p>



<p>The paper is published in the journal&nbsp;<em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2303336121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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



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Deeper zones of global coral reefs are currently safe from warming waters

The Great Barrier Reef, our planet's precious underwater ecosystem, has...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p id="block-1f9a227a-ec37-4140-81b8-ffa4a7cc6689">-----</p>



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

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