<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...

<p>World Water Day, celebrated annually on March 22, serves as a critical reminder of the vital importance of freshwater and the need for sustainable management of this precious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-the-worlds-climate-driven-water-crisis/">resource</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The day calls urgent attention to the ongoing global water crisis and encourages actions that support Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which aims for comprehensive water and sanitation for all by 2030.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This year, the theme "Water for Prosperity and Peace" underscores the power of water in fostering growth and harmony worldwide. This initiative is led by <a href="https://www.unesco.org/en/days/world-water" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNESCO</a> and the <a href="https://unece.org/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Economic Commission for Europe</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-water-management-nbsp">Sustainable water management&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The significance of sustainable water management cannot be overstated. It brings about numerous advantages that touch every aspect of human and ecological existence. Benefits such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-water-is-the-key-to-a-long-and-healthy-life/">health</a>, food, and energy security are directly linked to how we manage our water resources.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, water plays a critical role in safeguarding against natural disasters, bolstering education, enhancing living standards, generating employment opportunities, propelling economic development, and supporting a vast array of ecosystem services. It's through these comprehensive benefits that water becomes a cornerstone for prosperity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-catalyst-for-peace">A catalyst for peace</h2>



<p>The value of water extends beyond prosperity; it is a catalyst for peace. The equitable distribution and sharing of water resources are fundamental in promoting peace and cooperation, especially in regions where resources are scarce or contested.</p>



<p>UNESCO emphasizes the importance of dialogue and cooperation in the water sector. This approach is critical, considering that over 40% of the global population resides in transboundary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colorado-river-basin-has-lost-enough-water-to-fill-lake-mead/">river basins</a>, which collectively contain almost 60% of the world's freshwater resources.</p>



<p>"Water for peace is the theme of this year’s World Water Day. Achieving it relies on far greater cooperation," said UN Secretary-General António Guterres.</p>



<p>"Today, 153 countries share water resources. Yet only twenty-four have reported cooperation agreements for all their shared water. We must accelerate efforts to work together across borders, and I urge all countries to join and implement the United Nations Water Convention – which promotes managing shared water resources sustainably.“</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facts-about-water-scarcity">Facts about water scarcity</h2>



<p>Water scarcity is a pressing global issue with profound impacts on both human populations and the environment. Here are some key facts about water scarcity:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-impact">Global impact</h3>



<p>Over 2 billion people worldwide live in countries experiencing high water stress, according to the United Nations. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-security-in-africa-remains-very-poor/">Water stress</a> refers to situations where the demand for water exceeds the available amount during a certain period or when its use is restricted by its low quality.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-causes">Causes</h3>



<p>Water scarcity can result from a combination of natural and human-made factors. Climate change, overuse of water resources, pollution, and increased population pressures are primary contributors. Natural factors include periods of drought and decreased rainfall.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-agriculture">Agriculture</h3>



<p>Agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater resources, accounting for about 70% of all water withdrawals globally. Inefficient water use and irrigation practices contribute significantly to water scarcity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-effects-of-water-scarcity">Economic effects of water scarcity </h3>



<p>Water scarcity can lead to significant economic losses due to reduced crop yields, the death of livestock, and the added cost of securing water supplies. Industries that depend heavily on water, such as agriculture, textiles, and energy production, are especially vulnerable.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-risks">Health risks</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-world-is-falling-way-behind-on-water-security-targets/">Limited access</a> to clean water increases the risk of waterborne diseases, such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid fever. Water scarcity also compromises hygiene practices, further exacerbating health problems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-consequences">Environmental consequences</h3>



<p>Overdrawing water from rivers and aquifers leads to habitat destruction for aquatic and terrestrial species. Water scarcity can also contribute to land degradation and desertification, further diminishing biodiversity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conflicts-and-migration">Conflicts and migration</h3>



<p>Water scarcity can exacerbate conflicts over resources, particularly in regions where access to water is already a contentious issue. It can also lead to migration, as communities and even entire populations move in search of more secure water sources.</p>



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



<p>Climate change intensifies water scarcity by altering precipitation patterns, increasing the frequency of droughts, and causing glaciers and snowpacks to melt more rapidly, which affects freshwater supplies downstream.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-water-scarcity-nbsp">Addressing water scarcity&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Addressing water scarcity involves a combination of strategies, including improving water use efficiency, investing in infrastructure to increase access to clean water, protecting wetlands and natural reservoirs, promoting water recycling and reuse, and implementing integrated water resources management (IWRM) approaches.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-in-two-people-suffers-from-water-scarcity-nbsp">One in two people suffers from water scarcity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"Today, one in two people around the world suffers from water scarcity for several months of the year. And in some parts of the world, this water scarcity has become the rule, rather than the exception," said Audrey Azoulay,&nbsp; Director-General of UNESCO.</p>



<p>"We know the consequences of such a situation: water shortages not only fan the flames of&nbsp; geopolitical tensions, but also pose&nbsp; a threat to fundamental rights as a&nbsp; whole, for example by considerably undermining the position of girls and women."</p>



<p>"Indeed, in many rural areas, girls&nbsp; and women are primarily responsible for collecting water and spend several hours a day carrying out this task. In doing so, their access to education and participation in economic life is jeopardized."</p>



<p>"Access to water and the preservation of water resources are therefore core challenges for our societies, requiring new ways of using and managing this precious resource."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-for-peace-a-message-from-the-un">Water for peace: A message from the UN</h2>



<p>In a message for World Water Day, the <a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/water-day" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations notes</a> that water can create peace or spark conflict.</p>



<p>"When water is scarce or polluted, or when people have unequal, or no access, tensions can rise between communities and countries," says the UN. "More than 3 billion people worldwide depend on water that crosses national borders. Yet, only 24 countries have cooperation agreements for all their shared water."</p>



<p>"As climate change impacts increase, and populations grow, there is an urgent need, within and between countries, to unite around protecting and conserving our most precious resource."</p>



<p>"Public health and prosperity, food and energy systems, economic productivity and environmental integrity all rely on a well-functioning and equitably managed water cycle."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-world-water-day-2024">World Water Day 2024</h2>



<p>World Water Day is a call to action for governments, communities, and individuals to work together for the prosperity and peace that water can bring to our world. As we look towards the goal of water and sanitation for all by 2030, let us remember the critical role that water plays in our lives and the lives of future generations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This year’s theme of Water for Prosperity and Peace highlights an important revelation: the management and sharing of water resources are intrinsically linked to the well-being of individuals and communities and the overall peace and stability of societies.&nbsp;</p>



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



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World Water Day: A focus on prosperity and peace

World Water Day, celebrated annually on March 22, serves as...

Anchovies

<p>As public awareness grows about the importance of sustainable food sources, scientists are now encouraging the consumption of wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-farmed-fish-solve-worlds-food-problem/">fish</a> species like mackerel, anchovies, and herring.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These fish, often used in farmed salmon diets, offer vital nutrients such as calcium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 which are partially lost when consuming farmed salmon alone. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-loss-of-essential-dietary-nutrients-nbsp">Loss of essential dietary nutrients&nbsp;</h2>



<p>A study led by the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> has recently revealed that farmed salmon production results in a net loss of essential dietary nutrients, suggesting that direct consumption of these "feed" species could not only enhance health but also ease the aquaculture sector's reliance on finite marine resources.</p>



<p>“What we’re seeing is that most species of wild fish used as feed have a similar or greater density and range of micronutrients than farmed salmon filets,” said lead author David Willer, a researcher in the Zoology Department at Cambridge.</p>



<p>“Whilst still enjoying eating salmon and supporting sustainable growth in the sector, people should consider eating a greater and wider variety of wild fish species like sardines, mackerel and anchovies, to get more essential nutrients straight to their plate.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-few-changes-can-go-a-long-way">A few changes can go a long way</h2>



<p>In the UK, 71% of adults have vitamin D deficiencies in the winter, while teenage girls and women frequently have insufficient iodine, selenium, and iron.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Willer, "making a few small changes to our diet around the type of fish that we eat can go a long way to changing some of these deficiencies and increasing the health of both our population and planet.”</p>



<p>“Marine fisheries are important local and global food systems, but large catches are being diverted towards farm feeds. Prioritizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nutritious-seafood-is-too-expensive-for-most-americans/">nutritious seafood</a> for people can help improve both diets and ocean sustainability,” added senior author James Robinson, a research fellow at <a href="https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/">Lancaster University</a>’s Environmental Center.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maximizing-nutrients-from-the-sea">Maximizing nutrients from the sea</h2>



<p>The experts conducted an analysis comparing the nutrient content in wild fish used in salmon feeds with the farmed salmon themselves. This revealed a decrease in six out of nine essential nutrients in the salmon filet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, the quantity of calcium was over five times higher in wild feed fish filets than salmon filets, iodine was four times higher, and iron, omega-3, vitamin B12, and vitamin A were over 1.5 times higher.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These findings prompted the researchers to advocate for a more efficient way of maximizing nutrients from the sea by directly consuming a portion of the current food-grade wild feed fish.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retaining-key-nutrients-in-farmed-salmon-nbsp">Retaining key nutrients in farmed salmon&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to Richard Newton, an expert in aquaculture at the <a href="https://www.stir.ac.uk/">University of Stirling</a>, “farmed salmon is an excellent source of nutrition, and is one of the best converters of feed of any farmed animal, but for the industry to grow it needs to become better at retaining key nutrients that it is fed."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"This can be done through more strategic use of feed ingredients, including from fishery by-products and sustainably-sourced, industrial-grade fish such as sand eels.”</p>



<p>“It was interesting to see that we’re effectively wasting around 80% of the calcium and iodine from the feed fish – especially when we consider that women and teenage girls are often not getting enough of these nutrients,” he added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appealing-products-made-of-wild-feed-fish">Appealing products made of wild "feed" fish</h2>



<p>A notable aspect of this research is the proposal for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/90-percent-of-the-worlds-aquaculture-faces-substantial-risk-from-human-induced-environmental-changes/">aquaculture</a> industry to adopt a nutrient retention metric, which Willer believes could lead to a more efficient industry that lessens the burden on fish stocks also meant for direct human consumption.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We’d like to see the industry expand but not at a cost to our oceans. We’d also like to see a greater variety of affordable, convenient and appealing products made of wild ‘feed’ fish and fish and salmon by-products for direct human consumption,” he explained.</p>



<p>Thus, the call to action from this study - published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43016-024-00932-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Food</em></a><em> </em>- is not just for consumers to diversify their seafood intake but also for the aquaculture sector to reconsider its practices for the benefit of global nutrition and environmental sustainability.</p>



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Study: Humans should eat the same diet that farmed salmon eat

As public awareness grows about the importance of sustainable food...

<p>Researchers have demonstrated that artificial intelligence (AI) models can detect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-pose-great-threat-to-biodiversity-in-mountain-ranges/">biodiversity</a> from animal sounds in tropical rainforests, specifically in reforested areas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The goal of the research, led by the <a href="https://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/university/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Würzburg</a>, is to monitor the return of biodiversity in previously deforested tropical zones.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-biodiversity-nbsp">Monitoring biodiversity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Tropical forests play an essential role in keeping our planet healthy. They provide habitats for unique wildlife,&nbsp; play a role in the carbon cycle, and influence the climate on a global scale. Yet, these rainforests are under increasing pressure from relentless overexploitation.</p>



<p>"Tropical forests play a key role in the global carbon cycle and are central to Nature-based Climate Solutions, both in terms of climate adaptation and mitigation," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"They are also fundamental to global biodiversity conservation, harboring 62% of terrestrial vertebrate species. As such, restoring tropical forests is key to counteract two of the major crises of our times, biodiversity loss and climate change."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-sound-analysis">Animal sound analysis</h2>



<p>In tropical regions that are getting a much-needed boost from reforestation, it becomes crucial to monitor biodiversity. The researchers have recently shown that animal sounds provide a helpful monitoring tool.</p>



<p>"To be effective, all conservation measures require cost-efficient and robust biodiversity monitoring, which is lagging behind carbon monitoring due in part to the lack of scalable, reproducible and cost-effective sampling methodologies," explained the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The researchers chose northern Ecuador as their study site, specifically focusing on abandoned pastures and former cocoa plantations undergoing forest reclamation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The goal of the study was to determine if autonomous sound recorders, combined with AI, can recognize species compositions of birds, amphibians, and mammals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-researchers-learned-nbsp">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"The research results show that the sound data reflect excellently the return of biodiversity in abandoned agricultural areas," said Professor Jörg Müller, head of the Ecological Station Fabrikschleichach at Julius-Maximilians-Universität (JMU) Würzburg&nbsp;</p>



<p>A notable finding was the alignment of vocalizing species communities with recovery gradients. A preliminary set of 70 AI bird models described entire species communities, even capturing shifts in nocturnal insects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-animal-sounds">Future research on animal sounds </h2>



<p>The research team plans to refine these AI models. The goal is to record an even broader spectrum of species and establish these models in other protected zones, including the Sailershausen JMU Forest and Germany's venerable national park in the Bavarian Forest.</p>



<p>"Our AI models can be the basis for a very universal tool for monitoring biodiversity in reforested areas," said Müller. He suggests their applicability in biodiversity credits, which are comparable to carbon dioxide emissions trading.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These credits, which offset adverse environmental impacts of activities, can be procured by companies or organizations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"Our results demonstrate that automated bioacoustics monitoring can be used to track tropical forest recovery of animal communities from agricultural abandonment beyond vocalizing vertebrates, suggesting its broad use to assess restoration outcomes," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>The study was designed within the framework of the research group Reassembly, which is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG).</p>



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



<p>As discussed above, biologists and conservationists actively monitor biodiversity to assess the health and stability of ecosystems around the world. This crucial activity helps us understand the effects of human activity on natural habitats and the steps necessary to protect them.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Importance of biodiversity monitoring</h3>



<p>Monitoring biodiversity allows scientists to detect changes in ecosystems, revealing trends such as species decline or habitat loss. This information is vital for developing strategies to mitigate negative impacts and for restoring ecosystems.</p>



<p>Conservationists use biodiversity monitoring to assess the effectiveness of their efforts. By tracking changes in species populations and habitat conditions, they can adapt their strategies to be more effective, ensuring the long-term survival of diverse species.</p>



<p>Data gathered from monitoring biodiversity informs policy and decision-making processes. Governments and organizations rely on this information to implement regulations that protect natural habitats and promote sustainable practices.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Animal sounds and other biodiversity monitoring techniques</h3>



<p>Remote sensing technology, including satellite imagery and aerial photography, provides a comprehensive view of large ecosystems. This method allows for the monitoring of changes in land use, vegetation cover, and habitat fragmentation on a global scale.</p>



<p>As discussed previously in this article, bioacoustics monitoring involves recording and analyzing animal sounds. This technique helps identify species presence and abundance, offering insights into the health of ecosystems without intrusive methods.</p>



<p>Citizen science initiatives engage the public in biodiversity monitoring. Through apps and community projects, individuals contribute valuable data on local species, expanding the reach and scale of scientific research.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Collective effort for a sustainable future</h3>



<p>In summary, monitoring biodiversity is a collective effort that requires the participation of scientists, conservationists, policymakers, and the public. </p>



<p>By understanding and tracking the changes in our ecosystems, we can take informed steps towards protecting our planet's biodiversity for future generations.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-41693-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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AI can monitor biodiversity through animal sounds

Researchers have demonstrated that artificial intelligence (AI) models can detect...

Dozens,Of,Drones,Swarm,In,The,Cloudy,Sky.

<p>Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (<a href="https://iisc.ac.in" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IISc</a>) have a bold vision: deploying swarms of coordinated drones to combat forest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-activity-is-expected-to-intensify-in-the-pacific-northwest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fires</a> and other disasters.</p>



<p>Traditional firefighting methods, while heroic, have limitations. Ground crews can only cover limited area, while aircraft water drops might not target the most dangerous parts of the fire effectively. </p>



<p>"A swarm of drones could be the solution," said Suresh Sundaram, Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, IISc.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drone-swarms-and-forest-fires">Drone swarms and forest fires</h2>



<p>But how does a drone swarm become a coordinated firefighting force? The answer lies in a special algorithm and cutting-edge sensors. Thermal cameras and infrared sensors equip each drone to detect hotspots and 'see' through smoke. </p>



<p>They might even work in tandem, with visual cameras aiding identification of firebreaks or areas where the blaze could jump. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drone-images-help-experts-monitor-active-volcanoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drones</a> communicate with each other, creating a real-time map of the fire zone.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspired-by-oxyrrhis-marina">Inspired by Oxyrrhis marina</h2>



<p>Researchers looked to nature for inspiration. A tiny marine predator called Oxyrrhis marina hunts in a fascinating way. </p>



<p>"When foraging, it first takes longer steps to explore the area. Once it feels like it is closer to the food source, it will reduce the step length and then start exploring the area in more detail," explained Josy John, Ph.D. student at the Department of Aerospace Engineering, and lead author of the study.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-how-water-shapes-mountains-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drones</a> mimic this hunting strategy. Flying in wide search patterns, they use their onboard sensors to zero in on the hottest areas. Once the fire is found, the nearest drone becomes the swarm leader, attracting others.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drone-swarms-recognizing-fires">Drone swarms recognizing fires</h2>



<p>"These decisions are made by the drones," emphasized Sundaram. "They figure out which cluster of fire is going to spread faster and allocate the required number of drones to put out that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-caused-the-devastating-2020-fire-season-in-california/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fire</a> while the others look for other fire clusters."</p>



<p>But it's not just about sending in reinforcements. Each drone analyzes the fire's size and intensity. It might even be programmed with predictive models of fire behavior, a challenge Josy John and the team are likely tackling.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-drones-for-forest-fires">Significance of drones for forest fires</h2>



<p>"By the time somebody identifies and reports a fire, it has already started spreading and cannot be put out with one drone," says Sundaram. "You need to have a swarm of drones. A swarm that can communicate with each other."</p>



<p>IISc researchers have already made strides, with successful tests of the AI-assisted fire detection and extinguisher systems. Full-scale field tests of the swarm are on the horizon. </p>



<p>And the swarm's potential doesn't stop at dousing flames - it could also provide invaluable visual information to firefighters struggling to get a big-picture view in chaotic, smoky environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drone-swarms-for-all-disasters">Drone swarms for all disasters</h2>



<p>The researchers envision these drone swarms as versatile tools against the relentless forces of nature. During floods, they'll pinpoint those stranded, delivering life-saving supplies until help arrives. </p>



<p>After earthquakes, they'll survey the devastation, guiding rescuers to those trapped beneath the rubble. And always, they'll act as aerial messengers, re-establishing those precious communication links when disaster strikes.</p>



<p>As we stand on the threshold of this new era in disaster response, this work illuminates a path forward. It's a future where technology isn't something we merely react with, but a proactive force for good. </p>



<p>The next steps are thrilling – imagine these swarms working seamlessly with unmanned ground vehicles, refueled and resupplied, extending their reach even further.</p>



<p>In this future, drones aren't just flying cameras – they're lifelines. They'll be the first responders of the sky, swooping in at the first sign of trouble. </p>



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



<p>As discussed above, drone technology has taken a quantum leap forward, evolving from solitary aerial vehicles to complex, coordinated entities known as drone swarms. </p>



<p>These swarms represent the pinnacle of modern technological integration, combining advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and communication. </p>



<p>They are redefining the landscape of both military operations and civilian applications, offering unprecedented capabilities in surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat scenarios.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanics-of-drone-swarms">Mechanics of drone swarms</h3>



<p>Drone swarms consist of multiple drones operating as a cohesive unit, guided by sophisticated algorithms that enable autonomous decision-making and adaptation to changing environments. </p>



<p>Each drone in the swarm communicates with its counterparts, sharing information and making collective decisions without human intervention. This decentralized approach allows drone swarms to perform complex tasks, from exploring hazardous areas to executing precision strikes in combat zones.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-military-applications-new-era-of-warfare">Military applications: New era of warfare</h3>



<p>In the realm of defense, drone swarms herald a new era of warfare. They provide armed forces with the ability to overwhelm enemy defenses through sheer numbers and coordinated attacks, making traditional anti-aircraft systems less effective. </p>



<p>Drone swarms can conduct surveillance over vast areas, identify targets with precision, and execute coordinated strikes with minimal risk to personnel. Moreover, their ability to quickly adapt to battlefield conditions offers a tactical advantage previously unimaginable.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-civilian-uses-beyond-the-battlefield">Civilian uses: Beyond the battlefield</h3>



<p>Beyond the military domain, drone swarms hold immense potential for civilian applications. In disaster response, they can rapidly assess damage, locate survivors, and deliver essential supplies to inaccessible areas. </p>



<p>Environmental monitoring is another area where drone swarms excel, offering a cost-effective means to track wildlife, monitor climate change, and survey land with unparalleled efficiency.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-ethical-considerations">Challenges and ethical considerations</h3>



<p>Despite their benefits, drone swarms pose significant challenges and ethical considerations. The prospect of autonomous drones making life-and-death decisions raises questions about accountability and the potential for misuse. </p>



<p>Ensuring robust security measures to prevent hacking and unauthorized use is paramount. Furthermore, regulatory frameworks must evolve to address privacy concerns and ensure that the deployment of drone swarms aligns with legal and ethical standards.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-uses-and-implications-of-drone-swarms">Future uses and implications of drone swarms</h3>



<p>In summary, drone swarms represent a significant advancement in technology, offering both remarkable opportunities and challenges. As they become increasingly integrated into military and civilian spheres, it is crucial to address the ethical and security concerns they pose. </p>



<p>With appropriate oversight and regulation, drone swarms have the potential to revolutionize warfare, enhance disaster response, and contribute to environmental conservation, marking a new chapter in the evolution of drone technology.</p>



<p>The study in published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1109/tsmc.2024.3352660" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics</a>. </p>



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



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Drone swarms can help combat forest fires and natural disasters

Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have a...

<p>Tidal wetlands and blue carbon projects are at the forefront of climate change mitigation efforts. Representing a beacon of hope, they leverage the carbon-sequestering capabilities of coastal and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>.</p>



<p>Despite the growing popularity of blue carbon initiatives, the demand for credits significantly exceeds the available supply. </p>



<p>Traditionally, the scope of blue carbon ecosystems has been limited to mangroves, saltmarshes, and seagrass. However, emerging scientific insights reveal a broader array of tidal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-seas-release-more-methane-from-wetlands-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wetlands</a>. </p>



<p>These include tidal freshwater wetlands, transitional forests, and brackish marshes, all of which share key blue carbon ecosystem characteristics. This expands the potential for climate action.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tidal-wetlands-as-blue-carbon-ecosystems">Tidal wetlands as blue carbon ecosystems</h2>



<p>Dr. Fernanda Adame of Griffith University's <a href="https://www.griffith.edu.au/australian-rivers-institute" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Rivers Institute</a> spearheaded a pivotal study that highlights the untapped potential of overlooked tidal wetlands. </p>



<p>The research, conducted in collaboration with international researchers from Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, South Africa, Vietnam, the U.S., and Mexico, broadens the scope of ecosystems identified as blue carbon habitats.</p>



<p>The experts concluded that tidal wetlands, influenced by tides beneath the highest astronomical tide, embody vital blue carbon ecosystems. </p>



<p>After thoroughly analyzing their biophysical traits and management possibilities, the researchers discovered that these wetlands extend beyond mangroves, saltmarshes, and seagrass. They are effective in storing carbon in their soils and biomass, while emitting minimal greenhouse gases.</p>



<p>"By recognizing and prioritising their protection and restoration, we can unlock myriad benefits, including biodiversity conservation," said Dr. Adame.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-tidal-wetlands-in-reducing-emissions">The role of tidal wetlands in reducing emissions</h2>



<p>The significance of coastal wetlands in climate change <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wetlands-are-powerful-weapons-in-the-fight-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mitigation</a> cannot be overstated. They stand at the forefront of the fight against global warming, offering a pathway to significantly reduce atmospheric greenhouse gases. </p>



<p>"By managing these ecosystems strategically, not only can we curb emissions, but we also make significant strides towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals," explained Dr. Adame.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-integrating-tidal-wetlands-into-global-climate-strategy">Integrating tidal wetlands into global climate strategy</h2>



<p>Incorporating a wider variety of tidal wetlands into blue carbon initiatives offers a significant chance to enhance their carbon sink role and strengthen climate mitigation. This inclusive approach not only protects the environment but also promotes sustainable development and conservation.</p>



<p>Furthermore, as the scientific community calls for a reevaluation of what constitutes a blue carbon ecosystem, it's clear that expanding our understanding and inclusion of tidal wetlands can significantly impact our global climate action strategies.</p>



<p>Consequently, the study represents a pivotal step in redefining blue carbon projects. It underscores the critical role of tidal wetlands in ecological and climate stability. By embracing this broader perspective, we can safeguard our environment and foster a more sustainable and resilient future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about blue carbon ecosystems&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Blue carbon ecosystems refer to marine and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wetlands-are-caught-in-a-battle-between-co2-and-rising-seas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal habitats</a> that play a significant role in capturing and storing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, contributing to the mitigation of climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These ecosystems have unique characteristics but are collectively known for their high efficiency in sequestering carbon.</p>



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



<p>Mangroves are tropical trees that thrive in salty coastal waters. They have complex root systems that not only protect shorelines from erosion and extreme weather events but also trap sediments rich in organic carbon, known as "blue carbon."&nbsp;</p>



<p>Mangroves are among the most carbon-rich forests in the tropics, capable of storing carbon both above and below ground in their biomass and soil.</p>



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



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrasses-face-an-uncertain-future-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seagrasses</a> are flowering plants that form dense underwater meadows in shallow seas. These meadows provide a habitat for a diverse range of marine life, stabilize the sea bed, and improve water quality.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Seagrasses have a remarkable ability to capture CO2 from the ocean, burying it in the sediment where it can remain trapped for centuries.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Salt marshes</h3>



<p>Salt marshes are coastal wetlands found in temperate regions, dominated by salt-tolerant grasses and other plant species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Like mangroves and seagrasses, salt marshes are efficient at trapping and storing carbon in their sediments. They act as natural buffers, reducing the impact of waves and storms on the coast, and support a wide variety of marine organisms.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Threats to blue carbon ecosystems&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Despite their importance, blue carbon ecosystems are under threat from human activities such as coastal development, pollution, and climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The destruction of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-coastal-ecosystems-can-mitigate-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a> not only releases stored carbon back into the atmosphere, exacerbating global warming but also diminishes the ecosystem services they provide, including coastal protection, biodiversity support, and fisheries enhancement.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Conservation and restoration efforts for blue carbon ecosystems are critical for climate change mitigation and for maintaining the health of marine environments.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/advance-article/doi/10.1093/biosci/biae007/7629946" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BioScience</a></em>.</p>



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Tidal wetlands have enormous climate change mitigation potential

Tidal wetlands and blue carbon projects are at the forefront...

<p>In a world precariously balanced on the brink of ecological shift, forests emerge as towering beacons of life, biodiversity, and essential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/">climate</a> stabilization. Recognizing the paramount importance of these ecosystems, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 21 as the International Day of Forests in 2012.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the significance of all types of forests, from the tropical rainforests of the Amazon to the boreal forests of Siberia.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-are-forests-so-important">Why are forests so important?</h2>



<p>"Forest trees and other plants soak up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it away as they grow and thrive. Forests contain more than 660 gigatons of carbon, 18 times the amount emitted each year by human activities," wrote Amelia Meadows, <a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WWF</a>’s Director of Corporate Engagement for Forests.</p>



<p>"Forests are home to most of the world's terrestrial biodiversity, and tropical rain forests are home to more species than any other terrestrial habitat. A single acre of rain forest may be home to thousands of species."</p>



<p>"Forests provide a vast array of resources to all of us, including food, wood, medicine, fresh water, and the air we breathe. Without the trees, the ecosystem that supports the human population can fall apart."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-and-innovation">Forests and innovation</h2>



<p>The theme for 2024, "Forests and innovation: New solutions for a better world," underscores the critical role of technology in transforming how countries monitor their forests.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Meadows noted that the threats to forests are dire and increasing, which is why <a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WWF</a> and partners are finding innovative ways to protect, restore, and conserve these ecosystems. </p>



<p>"Technology is a huge part of that. It helps us get a better picture of species populations and migratory patterns with tools like drones, camera traps, and e-DNA. Tech like GIS mapping and remote-sensing technology are integral to modern forestland management and restoration monitoring and maintenance efforts," wrote Meadows.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transparent-forest-monitoring-nbsp">Transparent forest monitoring&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Through innovative and transparent forest monitoring, a staggering 13.7 billion tons of carbon dioxide forest emission reductions or enhancements have been reported to the <a href="https://unfccc.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change</a>. This represents a monumental step forward in our global efforts to combat climate change by preserving our forest resources.</p>



<p>However, the challenges facing our forests are immense. Each year, 10 million hectares of forest are lost to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/">deforestation</a>, and approximately 70 million hectares are affected by fires. These numbers not only signify a loss of trees but also a devastating impact on biodiversity, water cycles, and the livelihoods of millions of people globally.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technology-is-revolutionizing-forest-conservation">Technology is revolutionizing forest conservation</h2>



<p>In this light, the necessity for technological innovation becomes even more apparent. Technology is revolutionizing forest conservation, making efforts more effective, data-driven, and inclusive, and thus contributing significantly to the global fight against deforestation and climate change. Here are some of the key technologies being used:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remote-sensing-and-satellite-imagery">Remote sensing and satellite imagery</h3>



<p>Satellites equipped with remote sensing technology provide comprehensive data on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-learning-can-help-track-changes-in-forest-cover/">forest cover</a>, deforestation rates, and changes in land use. This technology allows for the monitoring of vast and inaccessible areas, offering real-time data that is crucial for conservation planning and action.</p>



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



<p>Drones are increasingly used for detailed aerial surveys, mapping forested areas, monitoring wildlife, and assessing damage caused by natural disasters or illegal activities like logging and poaching. They can access difficult terrains and provide high-resolution images that help in the precise management and restoration of forests.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geographic-information-systems-nbsp">Geographic information systems&nbsp;</h3>



<p>GIS is a powerful tool for mapping and analyzing forest data, allowing conservationists to visualize and understand the spatial aspects of forests. It aids in decision-making by integrating various data types, including topography, vegetation types, and human impacts, thereby facilitating targeted conservation efforts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-intelligence-and-machine-learning-nbsp">Artificial intelligence and machine learning&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Artificial intelligence (AI) and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-could-help-save-mangrove-forests/">machine learning</a> algorithms can process vast amounts of environmental data collected from satellites, drones, and ground-based sensors. They are used to predict deforestation trends, identify illegal logging activities, and model the impacts of climate change on forests, enabling proactive and informed conservation strategies.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-fire-detection-systems">Forest fire detection systems</h3>



<p>Advanced sensors and satellite data are used to detect forest fires in real-time, enabling quick response to minimize damage. These systems can identify the precise location of fires, predict their spread based on weather and terrain data, and thus help in efficiently deploying firefighting resources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smart-sensors-nbsp">Smart sensors&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Deployed throughout forests, smart sensors can monitor a wide range of environmental parameters, including temperature, humidity, soil moisture, and CO2 levels. This real-time data collection supports the health monitoring of forests and assists in the early detection of environmental stressors.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mobile-applications">Mobile applications</h3>



<p>Apps enable community involvement in forest conservation by allowing users to report illegal activities, participate in citizen science projects, and access educational resources about local ecosystems and biodiversity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blockchain-technology">Blockchain technology</h3>



<p>Blockchain is being explored for its potential to improve transparency and accountability in the supply chains of forest products. It can help verify the legality and sustainability of timber and other forest commodities, reducing the incidence of illegal logging and trade.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technological-innovations-could-empower-indigenous-communities-nbsp">Technological innovations could empower Indigenous communities&nbsp;</h2>



<p>International Day of Forests brings to the forefront the indispensable role of Indigenous Peoples in conserving forest landscapes. Often referred to as the custodians of the world’s remaining intact forests, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indigenous-forests-prevent-15-million-yearly-cases-of-disease/">Indigenous communities</a> possess traditional knowledge and practices that are invaluable for biodiversity conservation and carbon storage.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Technological innovations offer a unique opportunity to empower these communities by mapping and securing customary lands. We can also support Indigenous Peoples in safeguarding their lands by providing access to climate finance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-day-of-forests">International Day of Forests </h2>



<p>International Day of Forests serves as a reminder of the intricate connection between forests, technology, and innovation. It's a call to action for individuals, communities, and governments to invest in new solutions for a better world. </p>



<p>By embracing technology and innovation, we can address the pressing challenges of deforestation, forest degradation, and biodiversity loss. On this day, we are reminded of the power of collective action and the potential of innovative solutions to not only preserve but also enhance our forested landscapes for future generations.</p>



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International Day of Forests 2024: New solutions for a better world 

In a world precariously balanced on the brink of ecological...

Electronic,Waste,And,Garbage,For,Recycling

<p>The escalating global challenge of electronic waste (e-waste) generation significantly outstrips the pace at which we are recycling these materials, as highlighted in the UN's latest <a href="https://globalewaste.org/">Global E-waste Monitor report</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-millions-of-tons-of-electronic-waste">Millions of tons of electronic waste </h2>



<p>The staggering 62 million tons of e-waste generated in 2022 paints a vivid picture of the severity of the issue; this amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-e-waste-millions-of-tons-discarded-in-the-us-each-year/">waste</a> could fill a line of 40-ton trucks encircling the Earth's equator.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Yet, a mere 22.3% of this e-waste was documented to have been recycled properly, spotlighting the vast amount of valuable resources - worth an estimated $62 billion - that remain untapped, and highlighting the increased pollution and health risks to communities across the globe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-less-than-half-the-world-is-addressing-the-issue-nbsp">Less than half the world is addressing the issue&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“From discarded televisions to dumped telephones, an enormous amount of e-waste is generated around the world. The latest research shows that the global challenge posed by e-waste is only going to grow," said Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, the director of <a href="https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Pages/default.aspx">ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau</a>.</p>



<p>"With less than half of the world implementing and enforcing approaches to manage the problem, this raises the alarm for sound regulations to increase collection and recycling."</p>



<p>"The Global E-waste Monitor is the world's foremost source for e-waste data allowing us to track progress overtime and to make critical decisions when it comes to transitioning to a circular economy for electronics."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pressing-need-to-amplify-our-recycling-endeavors">Pressing need to amplify our recycling endeavors</h2>



<p>The annual rise of 2.6 million tons in e-waste production, with predictions set to soar to 82 million tons by 2030, underscores a pressing need to amplify our recycling endeavors to prevent further environmental degradation and safeguard human health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>E-waste, defined as any discarded <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-years-electronic-waste-outweighs-the-great-wall-of-china/">product</a> with a plug or battery, harbors toxic additives and hazardous substances, including mercury, posing grave threats to human health and environmental well-being.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widening-gap-between-e-waste-and-recycling-nbsp">Widening gap between e-waste and recycling&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The widening gap between e-waste production and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-recycling-day-creating-a-healthier-planet-for-all/">recycling</a> is attributed to several factors, including rapid technological advancements, higher consumption rates, limited repair options, shorter product life cycles, societal shifts towards greater <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-waste-environmental-disaster/">electronification</a>, design challenges, and insufficient e-waste management infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This complex web of challenges highlights the urgent need for integrated solutions that encompass technological innovation, policy reform, and community engagement to enhance e-waste recycling efforts globally.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-e-waste-generation-at-the-source">Reducing e-waste generation at the source</h2>



<p>In response to these challenges, the report posits a holistic approach that emphasizes not only the economic and environmental benefits of enhanced e-waste recycling but also the critical importance of reducing e-waste generation at the source.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Through targeted initiatives that promote repair, reuse, and responsible consumption, alongside the development of more sustainable product designs and improved e-waste management systems, we can begin to address the root causes of the e-waste crisis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reclaiming-valuable-materials-from-e-waste">Reclaiming valuable materials from e-waste</h2>



<p>One of the report's striking revelations is the current inefficiency in reclaiming valuable materials from e-waste, which presents both an economic loss and a missed opportunity for reducing reliance on primary resource extraction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By improving recycling rates and adopting more circular economy practices, we can mitigate the environmental impact of e-waste and foster a more sustainable relationship with our electronic devices.</p>



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



<p>As we navigate the complexities of the e-waste challenge, the report calls for collective action from policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and consumers to reimagine our approach to electronics consumption and waste <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-highlights-desperate-need-for-electronic-waste-management/">management</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Through innovative solutions, strategic partnerships, and public awareness campaigns, we can drive significant progress towards a future where electronic waste no longer poses a threat to our planet and our health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-e-waste-monitor-report">Global E-waste Monitor report</h2>



<p>For a comprehensive understanding of the e-waste dilemma and the path forward, the Global E-waste Monitor report serves as an invaluable resource, offering detailed insights, data, and recommendations for tackling this pressing environmental issue.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By confronting the e-waste challenge head-on, we can unlock new opportunities for resource <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conservation-goals-protect-ecosystems/">conservation</a>, environmental protection, and economic growth, ensuring a more sustainable and equitable world for future generations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-business-as-usual-can-t-continue">Business as usual can't continue</h2>



<p>“No more than 1% of demand for essential rare earth elements is met by e-waste recycling," said report lead author Kees Baldé, an expert in e-waste at the <a href="https://www.unitar.org/">United Nations Institute for Training and Research</a> (UNITAR).</p>



<p>"Simply put: Business as usual can't continue. This new report represents an immediate call for greater investment in infrastructure development, more promotion of repair and reuse, capacity building, and measures to stop illegal e-waste shipments. And the investment would pay for itself in spades.”&nbsp;</p>



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

Electronic waste is growing five times faster than recycling

The escalating global challenge of electronic waste (e-waste) generation significantly...

<p>A new study led by the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> has revealed the significant repercussions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-landscapes-are-being-transformed-by-climate-change/">climate change</a> on the Alps' biodiversity and ecosystem functions, spotlighting the intertwined effects of diminishing snow cover and the upward shift of vegetation patterns, such as the proliferation of dwarf-shrubs including heather. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-of-critical-alpine-ecosystem-functions">Timing of critical alpine ecosystem functions</h2>



<p>Mountainous regions globally are experiencing a warming rate surpassing that of adjacent lowlands, precipitating a stark reduction in snow cover and encouraging the upward shift of certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greening-in-the-alps-is-visible-from-space/">vegetation</a> types.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts discovered that these environmental alterations are disrupting the timing of critical alpine ecosystem functions performed by plant and soil microorganism activities, which are vital for maintaining nutrient balance and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountains-biodiversity-hotspots/">biodiversity</a> in these extreme habitats.</p>



<p>“Our paper reveals how important the timing of many plant and soil processes are in seasonal ecosystems. People may be familiar with mismatches between plant flowering and the emergence of pollinators caused by climate change,” said lead author Arthur Broadbent, an expert in the functioning of mountain&nbsp; ecosystems at Manchester.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-seasonal-dynamics">Fascinating seasonal dynamics</h2>



<p>“In our study, we have demonstrated that plant and soil processes show fascinating seasonal dynamics, and that the timing of these processes can also be disrupted by climate change. The high mountains are like a canary in the coalmine because they are warming much faster than the global average. That makes our findings particularly alarming.”</p>



<p>Typically, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-ecosystems-are-in-urgent-need-of-protection/">mountain ecosystems</a> undergo substantial nutrient exchanges between plants and soil microbes, influenced by seasonal dynamics. The onset of spring and subsequent snowmelt initiates a competition for nutrients between plants and soil microbes, facilitating a nutrient shift from soil to flora. This dynamic reverses in autumn as plants die, recycling nutrients back to the soil.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-altering-the-balance-of-alpine-ecosystems">Altering the balance of alpine ecosystems</h2>



<p>Snow serves a critical insulating role across alpine ecosystems during the winter, enabling soil microbes to function and plants to withstand the frigid temperatures. However, climate projections suggest a dramatic reduction in snow cover by the end of the century, alongside significantly earlier snowmelts, altering this delicate balance.</p>



<p>"Declining winter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-cover-has-decreased-in-recent-decades/">snow cover</a> is one of the most obvious and pronounced impacts of climate change in the Alps. Its effects on the functioning and biodiversity of alpine ecosystems are a major concern for people living in Alpine regions and beyond,” explained co-author Michael Bahn, an ecologist at the <a href="https://www.uibk.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Innsbruck</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-long-term-consequences">Potential long-term consequences</h2>



<p>“Our work demonstrates how the combination of different facets of climate change can severely disrupt below-ground ecological processes that underpin plant growth in alpine ecosystems, with potential long-term consequences for their biodiversity and functioning,” added senior author Richard Bardgett, a professor of ecology at Manchester.</p>



<p>The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/gcb.17245" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Global Change Biology</em></a><em>, </em>sheds light on the complexity of ecosystem responses to the multifaceted impacts of climate change. It underscores the challenge scientists face in predicting these effects due to the intricate interplay between direct and indirect climate change factors.</p>



<p>The research also highlights the urgent need for integrated approaches to understand and mitigate the consequences of climate change on alpine ecosystems and their biodiversity.</p>



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



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Alpine ecosystems are thrown off balance by climate change

A new study led by the University of Manchester has...

<p>A new study from the <a href="https://web.mit.edu/">Massachusetts Institute of Technology</a> (MIT) is forcing us to rethink just how unlikely life on Venus might be. The researchers discovered that some of the core building blocks of life on Earth are surprisingly stable when exposed to the corrosive sulfuric acid found in Venus's atmospheric clouds.</p>



<p>Until recently, most scientists wouldn't have given the notion of life on Venus a second thought. With surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead and a toxic atmosphere bursting with sulfuric acid, our neighbor Venus seems utterly inhospitable to any form of life we understand. </p>



<p>But could there be something living in those swirling, fiery clouds?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-on-venus">A new perspective on Venus</h2>



<p>While the surface of Venus might be the closest analog to an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanoes-cover-nearly-the-entire-surface-of-venus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inferno</a> that we know of, conditions in the planet's upper cloud layer are surprisingly temperate.</p>



<p>The challenge in imagining Venusian life is that its environment is so drastically different from Earth's. Those floating cities of sulfuric acid would dissolve most familiar biological materials in minutes. </p>



<p>So, if life <em>does</em> exist on Venus, it must be very different from what we're used to.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amino-acids-and-venus">Amino acids and Venus</h2>



<p>The MIT team looked specifically at amino acids. These tiny molecules are crucial for life on Earth because they link up to form proteins. </p>



<p>“If you consider the four major building blocks of life as nucleic acid bases, amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates, we have demonstrated that some fatty acids can form micelles and vesicles in sulfuric acid, and the nucleic acid bases are stable in sulfuric acid," said study co-author Maxwell Seager, an undergraduate at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (<a href="https://www.wpi.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WPI</a>).</p>



<p>"Carbohydrates have been shown to be highly reactive in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-organisms-may-be-transforming-the-clouds-around-venus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sulfuric acid</a>. That only left us with amino acids as the last major building block to study.”</p>



<p>Proteins provide essential structure and perform countless functions in everything from microscopic bacteria to the biggest animal on our planet. If there's life out there, it almost certainly relies on proteins in some way.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amino-acids-stability-in-sulfuric-acid">Amino acids stability in sulfuric acid</h2>



<p>The researchers dissolved 19 different amino acids – the types crucial for life on Earth – in sulfuric acid at concentrations matching the acidity in Venus's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venus-and-jupiter-will-soon-enter-into-a-spectacular-conjunction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clouds</a>. Incredibly, the central structure of these amino acids remained stable for weeks under these incredibly harsh conditions.</p>



<p>“People have this perception that concentrated sulfuric acid is an extremely aggressive solvent that will chop everything to pieces,” said study co-author Janusz Petkowski, a research affiliate in MIT’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences (<a href="https://eaps.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EAPS</a>). “But we are finding this is not necessarily true.”</p>



<p>“What is absolutely surprising is that concentrated sulfuric acid is not a solvent that is universally hostile to organic chemistry."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-there-life-on-venus">Is there life on Venus?</h2>



<p>This study doesn't prove that life exists on Venus. We're a long way from discovering little floating Venusian microbes. But, it's a massive leap forward. </p>



<p>“Just showing that this backbone is stable in sulfuric acid doesn’t mean there is life on Venus,” noted Maxwell Seager. “But if we had shown that this backbone was compromised, then there would be no chance of life as we know it.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We are finding that building blocks of life on Earth are stable in sulfuric acid, and this is very intriguing for the idea of the possibility of life on Venus,” added study author <a href="https://physics.mit.edu/faculty/sara-seager/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sara Seager</a>, MIT’s Class of 1941 Professor. </p>



<p>It shows that the chemistry of Venus might not be as instantly destructive to organic molecules as we assumed. That opens the door to imagining the existence of life as we don't yet understand it.</p>



<p>Moreover, it directs future research. Scientists now know that amino acids – vital to terrestrial life – warrant a closer look regarding Venus's atmosphere. Future space probes and studies can build upon this knowledge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-on-venus-the-quest-goes-on">Life on Venus: The quest goes on</h2>



<p>The search for life on Venus is gaining serious momentum. This MIT study, alongside the controversial detection of phosphine in Venus's atmosphere (another potential sign of life), has scientists around the world more curious about our neighbor than ever before.</p>



<p>“There are only a few groups in the world now that are working on chemistry in sulfuric acid, and they will all agree that no one has intuition,” added Sara Seager. “I think we are just more happy than anything that this latest result adds one more ‘yes’ for the possibility of life on Venus.”</p>



<p>Moreover, a privately-funded mission with MIT's Professor Sara Seager as the lead scientist is scheduled to launch in 2025. This probe will journey through Venus' clouds, analyzing the chemical makeup on its quest for signs of life.</p>



<p>Overall, it's an astonishing, humbling, and exciting time to be alive as we reach towards a greater understanding of our place in the cosmos.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/ast.2023.0082" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astrobiology</a>.</p>



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Venus' environment could support certain types of life

A new study from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)...

<p>On Wednesday, the Biden administration issued a major auto emission <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-plan-to-reduce-auto-emissions-received-with-skepticism/">regulation</a> with the ambitious aim of ensuring that by 2032, the majority of new passenger vehicles and light trucks sold in the United States will be powered by electricity or hybrid technology. </p>



<p>This policy is not just a statement of intent but a significant stride towards a sustainable automotive future, reflecting a profound transformation in the way Americans will drive and contributing to the global fight against climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-carbon-emissions-from-transportation-nbsp">Cutting carbon emissions from transportation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Despite electric vehicles (EVs) accounting for only 7.6% of car sales in the previous year, this rule sets an aggressive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biden-lays-out-plan-for-electric-vehicle-charging-stations/">target</a> of 56% for EVs, with hybrids expected to make up an additional 16 percent.</p>



<p>The significance of this move cannot be understated. Transportation is the largest source of carbon emissions in the United States, making the shift to electric and hybrid vehicles crucial in the nation’s efforts to combat the adverse effects of climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pursuing-an-ambitious-target">Pursuing an ambitious target</h2>



<p>This strategy is at the core of President Biden's comprehensive plan to address global warming, aiming for a reduction of the country's emissions by half by the decade's end. However, the transition to EVs has become a contentious issue, sparking debate among politicians, especially as the 2024 presidential election approaches.</p>



<p>“Three years ago, I set an ambitious target: that half of all new cars and trucks sold in 2030 would be zero-emission,” Biden said. “Together, we’ve made historic progress. Hundreds of new expanded factories across the country. Hundreds of billions in private investment and thousands of good-paying union jobs. And we’ll meet my goal for 2030 and race forward in the years ahead.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rise-of-zero-emissions-vehicles">The rise of zero-emissions vehicles</h2>



<p>Crafted by the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Protection Agency</a> (EPA), the new rule meticulously outlines the gradual reduction of permissible tailpipe emissions, paving the way for a future where over half of the new cars sold would likely be zero-emissions vehicles. </p>



<p>This initiative is expected to mitigate over seven billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions across three decades, equating to eliminating a year's worth of the United States' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/">greenhouse gas emissions</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Beyond environmental preservation, the EPA projects nearly $100 billion in annual net benefits to society, with $13 billion attributed to annual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/auto-emission-climate-policies-save-children-boost-economies/">public health</a> benefits from enhanced air quality. Moreover, it estimates that the average American driver could save about $6,000 in reduced fuel and maintenance during the life of a vehicle.</p>



<p>The path to electric vehicles is fraught with challenges, demanding significant adjustments in manufacturing, infrastructure, technology, labor, global trade, and consumer habits.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-political-debate-on-electric-vehicles">Political debate on electric vehicles </h2>



<p>Moreover, it has ignited a political firestorm. Former President Donald Trump has vocally criticized EVs, questioning their performance and cost-effectiveness, while the <a href="https://afpm.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Fuel &amp; Petrochemical Manufacturers</a> have initiated a substantial campaign against what they inaccurately describe as “Biden’s EPA car ban.” </p>



<p>However, as EPA argues, this regulation is far from being a ban. It does not mandate the sales of electric vehicles, and gas-powered cars and trucks could still be sold. Nonetheless, it will set stringent emissions standards for manufacturers to meet across their product lines.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-is-electric-nbsp">The future is electric&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The automotive industry has responded with cautious optimism to the new standards. For instance, John Bozzella, president of the <a href="https://www.autosinnovate.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alliance for Automotive Innovation</a>, which represents 42 car companies that produce most of the new vehicles sold in the United States, acknowledged the challenge but appreciated the rule's flexibility. </p>



<p>“The future is electric,” he said. Yet, the rules “are mindful of the importance of choice to drivers and preserve their ability to choose the vehicle that’s right for them.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-immediate-legal-challenges-nbsp">Immediate legal challenges&nbsp;</h2>



<p>However, this rule is bracing for immediate legal challenges from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-current-fossil-fuel-plans-will-shatter-1-5c-climate-goal/">fossil fuel</a> companies and Republican attorneys general, with Elizabeth Murrill articulating the opposition's stance: "They may wish for us all to drive EVs or no cars at all, but at the end of the day that’s not their decision. There is a limit to their authority to remake society in their own vision and the court has realized that.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historic-climate-grand-slam-nbsp">Historic climate grand slam&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Yet, this regulation is a cornerstone among several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ipcc-climate-action-urgently-needed-to-end-human-suffering/">climate actions</a> taken by the Biden administration, designed to dramatically reduce the nation's greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with ambitious 2030 and 2050 targets.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These efforts are bolstered by the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/lpo/inflation-reduction-act-2022" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022 Inflation Reduction Act</a>, representing the largest climate legislation in U.S. history. Environmental advocates like Manish Bapna have lauded these measures, considering them a “historic climate grand slam for the Biden administration.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-compromising-on-environmental-objectives-nbsp">No compromising on environmental objectives&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Facing the complexities of a transition that intersects with economic, labor, and political realms, the administration has shown a willingness to adapt. This includes making concessions to the automotive industry and its workforce to ensure the regulation's feasibility without compromising on environmental objectives.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the <a href="https://uaw.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Auto Workers</a>, the EPA had “come a long way to create a more feasible emissions rule” which would protect workers who build gas-powered cars while opening a path for car makers to “implement the full range of automotive technologies to reduce emissions.”</p>



<p>As the Biden administration navigates the intricate balance between environmental sustainability, economic health, and political viability, it remains committed to a future where clean transportation is the norm.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This regulation not only embodies the administration's environmental ambitions but also underscores the pivotal role of political will, industrial innovation, and societal adaptation in achieving a more sustainable world.</p>



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



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The future is electric: EPA sets strictest-ever vehicle emission rules

On Wednesday, the Biden administration issued a major auto emission...

<p>Human activity is no longer <em>subtly</em> influencing the ocean's rhythm. According to the results of a new study, humans are dramatically reshaping how ocean seasons change throughout the year. Scientists have found a clear human imprint on the seasonal cycle of sea surface temperature.</p>



<p>The ocean temperatures in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-were-a-driving-force-behind-2023s-record-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023</a> broke all-time records. This unprecedented heat isn't just about rising numbers; it's fundamentally altering the ocean, its seasons and the delicate balance of life upon which we all depend.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-ocean-surface-temperature">What is ocean surface temperature?</h2>



<p>Sea surface temperature (<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/global-sea-surface-temperature-from-amsr-e/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SST</a>) refers to the temperature of the ocean's top layer. It's a crucial component of understanding our climate because the ocean absorbs about 90% of the excess heat. </p>



<p>SST impacts weather patterns, marine ecosystems, and the ocean's ability to continue soaking up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupted-ocean-season-rhythm">Disrupted ocean season rhythm</h2>



<p>This research by <a href="https://www.whoi.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)</a> shows that the seasonal swings in sea surface temperature are amplifying. Summers are getting significantly hotter compared to winters. </p>



<p>This isn't happening everywhere in the same way. Researchers observed the following patterns:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northern-hemisphere">Northern hemisphere</h3>



<p>Critically, the warming impact is most dramatic during summer months, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. Scientists found that shallower summertime "mixed layers" (the top, actively mixed part of the ocean) are trapping more heat.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-southern-hemisphere">Southern hemisphere</h3>



<p>Shifting wind patterns, themselves caused by warming, are the main culprits behind changing ocean temperatures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-just-nature">More than 'just nature'</h2>



<p>Skeptics try to downplay the seriousness of climate change by suggesting the warming is 'just nature.' This finding offers a powerful counterargument.</p>



<p>“This research rebuts claims that recent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-surface-temperatures-are-speeding-up-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a> changes are natural, whether due to the Sun or due to internal cycles in the climate system. A natural explanation is virtually impossible in terms of what we are looking at here: changes in the seasonal temperatures of the ocean,” stated <a href="https://directory.whoi.edu/profile/jshi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Jia-Rui Shi</a>, a researcher at the WHOI. </p>



<p>“This research further rules out the claim that we don’t need to treat climate change seriously because it is natural.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-changing-ocean-temperatures-and-seasons">Consequences of changing ocean temperatures and seasons</h2>



<p>“This robust human fingerprint in the seasonal cycle of ocean surface temperature is expected to have wide-ranging impacts on marine ecosystems. This can dramatically influence fisheries and the distribution of nutrients,” said Shi. “Gaining insight into the anthropogenic influence on seasonality is of scientific, economic, and societal importance.”</p>



<p>More extreme summer temperatures will affect crucial food sources for countless species, disrupt migration patterns, and throw marine life cycles out of balance. </p>



<p>This has profound implications for fisheries, which many communities around the world depend upon for their livelihoods.</p>



<p>Additionally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-hit-a-record-high-this-week-with-the-worst-heat-still-to-come/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warmer water</a> holds less carbon dioxide. As the ocean gets hotter, its ability to act as a buffer against the full force of climate change may falter, leading to even faster warming of the planet as a whole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-changing-ocean-seasons">Insights from changing ocean seasons</h2>



<p>As Benjamin Santer, a leading climate scientist from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, points out, decisions about tackling climate change must be based on the best possible scientific understanding. </p>



<p>“We now face important decisions, in the United States and globally, on what to do about climate change. Those decisions should be based on our best scientific understanding of the reality and seriousness of human effects on average climate and on the seasons,” noted Santer.</p>



<p>The seasons of the ocean are changing due to our actions, and those changes are accelerating. This research is a stark reminder that climate change is real, it's here, and it demands our urgent attention.</p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-01958-8  ‌" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.</p>



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Humans are significantly changing ocean surface temperatures and seasons

Human activity is no longer subtly influencing the ocean's rhythm....

<p>World Frog Day, observed annually on March 20th, serves as a pivotal reminder of the ecological and biological significance of frog <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eu-responsible-for-extinction-of-frog-populations/">species</a> across the globe. </p>



<p>It's a day dedicated to celebrating these fascinating creatures, understanding their vital roles in our ecosystems, and acknowledging the severe threats they face due to human activity and environmental changes.</p>



<p>Frogs, belonging to the order Anura, are amphibians characterized by their long hind legs, smooth or warty skin, and their unique life cycle that typically involves metamorphosis from a larval stage (tadpole) to an adult form.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-distribution-of-frogs">Global distribution of frogs</h2>



<p>These creatures are found in a wide array of environments, from the deepest rainforests to deserts and even in urban areas, adapting to various habitats with remarkable versatility. Their global distribution, except for Antarctica, highlights their ecological importance and the need for concerted conservation efforts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-roles-of-frogs">Ecological roles of frogs</h2>



<p>The significance of frogs extends beyond their ecological roles as both predators and prey within food webs. They are integral for maintaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-ecosystems-are-needed-to-prevent-future-pandemics/">healthy ecosystems</a>, controlling insect populations that could otherwise lead to crop damage and spread diseases.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, frogs are bioindicators, their presence or absence provides crucial information about the health of the environment. Their permeable skin makes them particularly sensitive to pollutants, thus serving as early warning systems for ecosystem health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-conservation-efforts">Urgent need for conservation efforts</h2>



<p>World Frog Day emphasizes the pressing need for conservation due to the alarming decline in frog populations worldwide. This decline is attributed to several factors, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hippopotamus-population-hit-hard-by-habitat-destruction/">habitat destruction</a>, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and the deadly chytrid fungus, which has devastated frog populations globally.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Conservation efforts on this day focus on habitat preservation, research into diseases affecting amphibians, and public education on the importance of frogs and the challenges they face.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-facts-about-frogs">Fascinating facts about frogs</h2>



<p>Frogs are incredibly fascinating creatures that exhibit a variety of interesting behaviors and traits. Here are some captivating facts about them:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-species">Diverse species</h3>



<p>There are over 7,000 species of frogs, ranging from the tiny Paedophryne amauensis, the world's smallest vertebrate measuring just 7.7 mm in length, to the Goliath frog, which can grow up to 32 cm in length.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-adaptations">Remarkable adaptations</h3>



<p>Frogs have various adaptations that help them survive. Some species can change color for camouflage, while others have developed resistance to freezing temperatures by producing antifreeze substances in their blood.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-legs">Powerful legs</h3>



<p>Frogs are known for their jumping abilities. Their powerful legs allow them to leap multiple times their body length. The record for the longest frog jump is held by the South African sharp-nosed frog, which can leap up to 3.3 meters.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vocal-abilities">Vocal abilities</h3>



<p>Male frogs have vocal sacs that they use to make loud croaking sounds to attract females or deter rivals. Each species has a unique call.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycle">Life cycle</h3>



<p>Frogs undergo a fascinating transformation in their life cycle, from egg to tadpole to adult. This process, known as metamorphosis, involves significant changes in their body structure and habitat.</p>



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



<p>Frogs can be found in diverse environments, from tropical rainforests to deserts. Their diet mainly consists of insects, but some larger species can eat small animals like mice and other frogs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breathing-and-skin">Breathing and skin</h3>



<p>Frogs breathe through their lungs and their skin, which must remain moist to facilitate gas exchange. This is why they are often found near water sources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-frogs">Cultural significance of frogs</h3>



<p>Frogs have been symbols of fertility, luck, and rain in various cultures throughout history. They are featured in folklore, mythology, and art around the world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engagement-in-world-frog-day">Engagement in World Frog Day</h2>



<p>World Frog Day activities spans across various sectors, from educational institutions hosting lectures and workshops to conservation organizations conducting field research and habitat restoration projects.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Social media campaigns and community clean-up events also play a significant role in raising awareness and fostering community involvement in frog conservation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reflecting-on-our-environmental-responsibilities">Reflecting on our environmental responsibilities</h2>



<p>As we celebrate World Frog Day, it's crucial to recognize the beauty and diversity of frog species, their indispensable contributions to ecosystems, and the urgent need for actions to ensure their survival. </p>



<p>This day calls for a collective effort to protect these remarkable creatures and the environments they inhabit, ensuring a balanced and healthy planet for future generations.</p>



<p>In essence, World Frog Day is not just a celebration but a call to action - a day to reflect on our environmental responsibilities and commit to making a difference in the preservation of frog populations and the broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-solutions-for-the-climate-and-biodiversity-crisis/">biodiversity</a> they represent.</p>



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

World Frog Day 2024: Addressing environmental threats to frogs

World Frog Day, observed annually on March 20th, serves as...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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"

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



<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>



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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>

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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