<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.



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.



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



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>). 



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



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



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.



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



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. 



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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. 



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.



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.



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



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>. 



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.



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.



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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.



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.



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.



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



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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...

New research aimed to observe the changes in the blooming patterns of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-true-survivors-flowering-plants-lived-through-the-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowers</a> and 51 species of shrubs, bushes, and trees over the past 35 years, providing insights into how plant communities are adapting to climate shifts in the southern <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/sunny-summer-day-iberian-peninsula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Iberian Peninsula</a>.



Researchers from the <a href="https://ics-seville.org/university-of-seville/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Seville</a> have conducted a significant study to explore the effects of climate change on the flora of <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/685/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doñana National Park</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-s-grip-on-flower-blooming-patterns">Climate's grip on flower blooming patterns</h2>



The backdrop of this study is a notable increase in temperatures in the area, with an average rise of 1°C and a minimum temperature increase of 2°C. 



This warming has led to a significant shift in the plant community's peak flowering time, moving forward by 22 days, from May 9 to April 17. 



This change signifies that the majority of species are now blooming earlier, altering the traditional rhythm of the ecosystem.



This phenomenon is widespread, affecting 80% of the observed species by advancing their flowering start, and 68% by moving up the end of their flowering period. 



Remarkably, rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) exemplifies this shift, flowering 92 days earlier than in the past. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crowded-gardens-pollination-in-a-warmer-world">Crowded gardens: Pollination in a warmer world</h2>



This uneven shift in flowering times has resulted in prolonged blooming periods for many species, leading to an "overcrowded" floral neighborhood. 



This crowding could intensify competition for the attention of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-that-90-of-flowering-plant-species-rely-on-animal-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinating</a> insects, as 55% of the species now find themselves in a more congested flowering environment.



Flowering is a crucial phase for plants, as it facilitates sexual reproduction. Since plants are stationary, they depend on insects to transfer pollen from one flower to another. 



This intricate dance requires precise timing; however, the advancing flowering times due to climate change could disrupt the synchronization between plants and their pollinator insects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mediterranean-meltdown-hotspot-for-flowering-havoc">Mediterranean meltdown: Hotspot for flowering havoc</h2>



The study underscores that the Mediterranean region, including Doñana National Park, is experiencing climate change impacts more acutely than many other areas, with temperature increases outpacing the global average by 20%. 



This rapid change challenges plants, which rely on accumulating warmth to determine the right moment to flower. 



The altered timing may affect the plants' ability to reproduce effectively, potentially leading to fruiting or germination at less optimal times, especially as drought conditions worsen. 



Moreover, unexpected competition for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildflowers-are-self-fertilizing-to-deal-with-a-lack-of-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> could arise, further complicating the survival of these species.



This research was made possible by leveraging data collected in the 1980s, initially aimed at a different study. 



The foresight to monitor the flowering patterns of these plant communities has provided invaluable data, highlighting the profound effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change on biodiversity</a>. 



It emphasizes the importance of long-term research perspectives, often challenged by the short-term nature of most research projects. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-s-toll-on-flowering-and-reproduction">Climate change's toll on flowering and reproduction</h2>



The research conducted by the University of Seville reveals the profound impact of climate change on the flowering patterns of plant species in Doñana National Park, highlighting a critical shift towards earlier bloom times and the resulting ecological consequences. 



This study underscores the urgent need for continued and comprehensive research to understand the broader implications of these changes on biodiversity and ecosystem health. 



By documenting the significant advancement in flowering times and the challenges posed to plant-pollinator interactions, the findings serve as a compelling call to action for mitigating climate change effects and preserving the delicate balance of our natural environments for future generations.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/aob/advance-article/doi/10.1093/aob/mcad193/7473614" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Botany</a>.



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Flowers are blooming up to 92 days earlier due to climate change

New research aimed to observe the changes in the blooming...

Finnish researchers have explored a captivating idea. Could the stunning Northern Lights (auroras) reveal more than just beauty? Could they hold clues about how much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-need-resilient-electricity-networks-to-cope-with-climate-change/">electricity</a> we use?



The investigation, led by the <a href="https://www.oulu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oulu</a>, has uncovered a surprising link between auroras and winter temperatures. 



This unique study investigates how activity in Earth's atmosphere, which generates auroras, affects the amount of electricity Finland uses during winter. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-space-weather">Studying space weather</h2>



The researchers analyzed information about air pressure, wind patterns, and surface <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-linked-to-vision-impairment/">temperatures</a> from Europe's weather center (ECMWF) for the period 1950-2021.



Later, the team analyzed the amount of electricity Finland used each month between 1990 and 2021, and estimated values for earlier years based on temperature data.



"From these data, we had to carefully remove variations unrelated to temperatures. This then revealed the influence of particle precipitation on temperature and electricity consumption," said Veera Juntunen, a doctoral researcher at the University of Oulu.



Initially, the researchers focused on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-weather-poses-significant-risks-to-railway-safety/">space weather</a>. While Earth has its own weather, space experiences its own set of dynamic events. Just like on Earth, these events aren't random - they're largely driven by the Sun's activity.



For example, when the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amaterasu-extremely-high-energy-cosmic-ray-detected-with-no-clear-source/">Sun</a> experiences intense activity, it can emit a surge of energetic particles in space. These may collide with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/communications-satellites-may-disrupt-astronomical-observations/">satellites</a> and affect our internet connections.



The phenomenon is known as energetic particle precipitation (EPP) and it plays a role in the creation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-solar-wind-which-creates-beautiful-auroras-on-earth-is-now-less-mysterious/">auroras</a> too.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-auroras-and-electricity-a-cosmic-connection">Auroras and electricity: A cosmic connection</h2>



Auroras happen when charged particles from the Sun (carried by the solar wind) collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere and react with its magnetic field. These collisions release energy as light, creating the beautiful displays.



For a long time, we knew this activity could create beautiful auroras, but this study found something new: it can also warm up Finland's winters. This happens because the charged particles interact with our atmosphere in multiple ways.



Warmer winters mean less need for heating, which means lower energy use in Finland. So, the sun throwing its particles, creating auroras, can actually affect how much electricity people use on Earth.



The study explains that EPP can intensify the polar vortex, which is a strong wind pattern that typically circulates around the polar region&nbsp;



When the wind blows from the east, these warm patches from the sun have an even bigger effect on Finland, making its winters much warmer.&nbsp;



That's why scientists concluded - it depends on a specific wind pattern we didn't know about before. So, space weather and wind work together to influence how warm (and how much electricity Finland needs) in winter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harsh-weather-conditions">Harsh weather conditions</h2>



The researchers found that the polar vortex "broke" once already this winter. This "breaking" means the cold air spread out in unexpected ways, potentially impacting weather patterns.&nbsp;



The experts predict this will happen again soon, this weekend specifically. It's impressive that their models even hinted at this possibility months ago.



Breaking of the polar vortex can lead to colder temperatures in areas like Europe and North America. This happens because the weakening allows cold Arctic air to escape southward.&nbsp;



Such weakening is often linked to cold spells and harsh winter weather in these regions.



The researchers found several critical links. The way the Sun interacts with Earth's atmosphere, especially how it sends energetic particles down, can directly affect how much electricity we use in winter. 



For Finland, this "space weather" can explain about 14% of how much electricity they use – that's pretty significant.



By understanding how space weather affects winter weather, scientists can potentially predict how much electricity we'll need ahead of time. This could help energy companies prepare and make sure everyone has enough power during cold months.



"The results demonstrate a previously unrecognized societal influence of space weather, and imply that long-term energy consumption forecasts could potentially be improved by considering long-term space weather predictions," wrote the study authors.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-47605-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Auroras have a surprising link to electricity consumption

Finnish researchers have explored a captivating idea. Could the stunning...

Bacteria,And,Viruses,On,Surface,Of,Skin,,Mucous,Membrane,Or

In an era where the threat of climate change and carbon emissions loom larger by the day, scientists are delving into the world's oceans, armed with an extensive catalog of hundreds of thousands of DNA and RNA <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-virus-discovered-in-the-deepest-part-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus species</a>. 



Their goal? To pinpoint viruses capable of enhancing carbon dioxide capture in seawater and preventing methane release from thawing Arctic soil, thereby mitigating climate change effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-the-depths-viruses-and-carbon-capture">From the depths: Viruses and carbon capture</h2>



Researchers, leveraging genomic sequencing data coupled with artificial intelligence, have embarked on a journey to identify and analyze <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-new-rna-viruses-identified-in-ocean-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean-based viruses</a>. 



Their findings reveal a fascinating aspect of these viruses: their ability to "steal" genes from other microbes involved in carbon processing within the sea. 



This gene theft aids in the mapping of microbial metabolism, uncovering 340 known metabolic pathways across the global oceans, with 128 pathways also found in ocean virus genomes.



<a href="https://microbiology.osu.edu/people/sullivan.948" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matthew Sullivan</a>, a professor of microbiology and the director of the <a href="https://coms.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center of Microbiome Science</a> at The Ohio State University, expressed his astonishment at the discovery, "I was shocked that the number was that high." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-the-ocean-and-climate-resilience">AI, the ocean, and climate resilience</h2>



This fascinating research has been propelled forward through advancements in computational methods, allowing the team to identify viruses integral to carbon metabolism. 



They are now utilizing this information to develop community metabolic models, aiming to predict the outcomes of engineering the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/racing-boat-collects-edna-samples-on-a-round-the-world-sailing-competition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean microbiome</a> for improved carbon capture.



Sullivan, speaking at the annual meeting of the <a href="https://meetings.aaas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Association for the Advancement of Science</a> in Denver on February 17, 2024, shared insights into the research's implications. 



“The modeling is about how viruses may dial up or dial down microbial activity in the system,” Sullivan said. 



“Community metabolic modeling is telling me the dream data point: which viruses are targeting the most important metabolic pathways, and that matters because it means they’re good levers to pull on.”



As the virus coordinator for the <a href="https://oceans.taraexpeditions.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tara Oceans Consortium</a>, Sullivan has played a pivotal role in this three-year global study examining climate change's impact on the world's oceans. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phages-as-earth-s-physicians">Phages as Earth's physicians</h2>



His lab's focus on phages, viruses that infect bacteria, aims to leverage these microbes in converting carbon into a form that sinks to the ocean floor, thus strengthening the ocean's role as a carbon sink.



This approach builds on the 2016 discovery by the Tara team that carbon sinking in the ocean is facilitated by viruses. 



By causing virus-infected cells to cluster into larger aggregates, carbon is more efficiently deposited on the ocean floor. 



The team's AI-based analytics have identified "VIP" viruses for further study and potential use in ocean geoengineering efforts.



Moreover, the implications of this research extend beyond oceanic health. Sullivan's lab is exploring the application of these findings in human settings, aiming to use viruses to engineer microbiomes to aid in recovery from spinal cord injuries, improve outcomes for infants born to mothers with HIV, and more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-engineering-viruses-to-trap-carbon">The future: Engineering viruses to trap carbon</h2>



Sullivan also highlighted early efforts to apply phage-based geoengineering strategies to permafrost in northern Sweden, demonstrating the broad potential of these microbial manipulations in various ecosystems.



In summary, the Sullivan's research marks a significant leap forward in our quest to mitigate climate change through innovative oceanic and permafrost interventions. 



By harnessing the power of viruses to enhance carbon capture in the oceans and prevent methane release from thawing Arctic soil, this work deepens our understanding of microbial and viral interactions and forges new pathways for environmental engineering. 



As we explore the potential of viruses to act as natural geoengineering tools, the implications for both oceanic health and global climate strategies are profound, offering a glimmer of hope in the fight against climate change.



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Ocean-based viruses discovered that trap carbon and combat climate change

In an era where the threat of climate change and...

About 56 million years ago, Earth went through a super-fast global warming spell called the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM). It was one of the most intense warmings ever. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-temperatures-hit-a-record-high-this-week-with-the-worst-heat-still-to-come/">temperatures</a> jumped by 5-8 degrees Celsius (9-14 degrees Fahrenheit) in just a few thousand years.



Scientists from the <a href="https://www.mpic.de/2285/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Chemistry</a> and <a href="https://www.princeton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton University</a> studied how the oceans responded to PETM.&nbsp;



Surprisingly, this period is similar to our current climate challenges. So, the study helps us understand how oceans handled oxygen levels during such dramatic warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-secrets-of-ocean-warming">Surprising secrets of ocean warming</h2>



To uncover secrets from the past, the researchers needed to go back in time. 



“Marine sediments are the history book of the ocean. By studying past intervals of time in which temperatures increased rapidly, we can gain precious insights on how ocean oxygen and biology responded to changes in climate," said study lead author Simone Moretti.



Therefore, the team dug into the ocean floor, looking at clues in the sediment to understand old nutrient cycles and oxygen levels. 



Usually, when water gets warmer, it cannot hold as much air. So, during the PETM, the ocean's top layers should have been warm and contain less oxygen.



Surprisingly, the study found increased oxygen levels in the upper ocean during the PETM. This challenges our current understanding of how oceans react to warming.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-fossils">Ocean fossils</h2>



Other areas with very low oxygen, called "dead zones," actually got smaller during the PETM. The shrinking dead zones also indicate increased oxygen in the upper ocean.



The study suggests that the ocean has a way of balancing itself when things change rapidly. This discovery is important because it shows how the ocean can adapt to big environmental changes.



The scientists also examined any fossils they came across. They found fossils of microscopic creatures called foraminifera, which lived in the ocean and built miniature shells from minerals.&nbsp;



These tiny fossils held a big secret. During PETM, the foraminifera had larger shells than usual. This suggested they responded to their environment, hinting at warmer waters with more oxygen.



Foraminifera are sensitive to changes in temperature, acidity, and oxygen levels. So, their bigger shells during the PETM suggest they flourished in the warmer, more oxygen-rich conditions of that time.



"Remarkably, and unexpectedly, evidence shows that planktonic foraminifera from the central tropical Pacific got bigger during the PETM warming, implying a tropical oxygen rise in the upper layers of the ocean," said study co-author Professor Curtis Deutsch.



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



The deep ocean, sensitive to temperature and oxygen shifts, likely suffered during the PETM's rapid warming. Many deep-sea creatures, pushed beyond their limits, couldn't adapt, leading to a sharp drop in the variety of life there.



On the other hand, surface dwellers in the ocean's top layers may have fared better. A temporary boost in oxygen during this period gave them a breathing room, allowing them to keep their living conditions somewhat stable despite the chaos around them.&nbsp;



This extra oxygen might have even lessened the warming's impact, making the upper ocean a more welcoming place for these surface-dwelling marine animals than their deep-sea neighbors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-warming-recovery-period">Ocean warming recovery period</h2>



Marine ecosystems took a long and arduous journey to recover even with a temporary oxygen boost. Over 100,000 years passed before they fully bounced back, highlighting the lasting effects of rapid climate change on ocean life.



The reason for this slow recovery lies in the complex interplay of factors triggered by the PETM. It wasn't just warming temperatures but also changes in ocean chemistry, like acidification and disruptions to nutrient cycles. These factors continued to stress marine life long after the initial warming event.



Organisms had to adjust to new conditions, repopulate lost habitats, and rebuild the life that the PETM had disrupted. This process unfolded gradually over millennia, a testament to the resilience of marine ecosystems.



But their resilience has limits. The extended recovery also underscores the long-term consequences of rapid climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Studying the PETM's recovery helps us understand how modern marine ecosystems might respond to current climate challenges.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adh4893" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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'History book' of the ocean reveals future impacts of warming 

About 56 million years ago, Earth went through a super-fast...

A recent study offers new insights into the battle against air pollution in the United States, focusing on the evolution of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels across the nation from 2006 to 2020.



This comprehensive research by the <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill</a> reveals the impact of regulatory efforts by federal, state, and local authorities to improve air quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invisible-threat-the-pm2-5-challenge">Invisible threat: The PM2.5 challenge</h2>



PM2.5, a complex mixture of tiny particles smaller than 2.5 microns, poses <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-air-pollution-levels-have-dropped-but-not-for-everyone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">significant health risks</a>, including premature death, and contributes to reduced visibility through haze formation. 



The study's findings highlight a notable reduction in the annual average concentration of PM2.5, alongside shifts in its chemical makeup, suggesting that pollution control strategies tailored to specific regional needs could further diminish air pollution and its adverse health effects.



“The results from this study are especially timely given the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-finalizes-stronger-standards-harmful-soot-pollution-significantly-increasing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPA’s revision</a> of the health-based standard for PM2.5 from 12 µg/m3 to 9 µg/m3 that was just announced this month,” said <a href="https://ie.unc.edu/people/arunachalam/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saravanan Arunachalam</a>, senior author of the study and deputy director of the UNC Institute for the Environment. 



“States with monitors that are exceeding the new standard for PM2.5 will be looking to understand the chemical constituents of PM2.5, and how they have changed over time, and this will be key to developing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions reductions</a> policies to address potential future nonattainment designations.”  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decade-of-progress-how-america-cleaned-its-skies">Decade of progress: How America cleaned its skies</h2>



Utilizing data from the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/aqs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. EPA Air Quality System</a>, the research team scrutinized PM2.5 trends across 48 states, identifying a range of chemical species originating from both human activities and natural sources. 



Their analysis revealed significant air quality improvements in regions with historically <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/short-term-exposure-to-air-pollution-increases-stroke-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poor air quality</a>, such as the Ohio Valley and southeastern states, largely due to stringent controls on emissions from coal-burning power plants and industrial sources.



The period studied saw a dramatic 91.5% reduction in sulfur dioxide emissions from power plants, particularly in the Ohio Valley and southeastern U.S., areas previously known for high sulfur dioxide levels. 



Additionally, the study noted a temporary deterioration in air quality along the West Coast in 2020, attributed to extensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-farming-and-wildfires-is-more-likely-to-cause-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest fires</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-chemical-puzzle-of-air-pollution">The chemical puzzle of air pollution</h2>



Despite a nationwide decrease in sulfate and ammonium levels, the researchers advocate for measures targeting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-exposure-in-the-womb-harms-offspring-reproductive-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a>, which increasingly contribute to PM2.5 levels. 



They observed a decline in high pollution days, with a notable rise in primary organic carbon during winter, attributed to the slower formation of secondary organic aerosols in lower temperatures.



Highlighting the significance of regional differences in pollution sources and effects, the study supports the adoption of targeted air pollution mitigation strategies. 



"Region-specific approaches are essential for further enhancing air quality, reducing healthcare costs related to air pollution, and saving lives," the researchers emphasized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-clean-air-removing-pollution-from-us-skies">Future of clean air: Removing pollution from US skies</h2>



<a href="https://ie.unc.edu/people/cheng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bin Cheng</a>, a co-author and research associate at the Institute, stressed the importance of a detailed analysis of PM2.5's chemical composition and its emission sources for future emissions control strategies. 



"Different chemical constituents of PM2.5 are linked to various emissions sources, thus, the development of future emissions control strategies to reduce PM2.5 concentrations should be based on the comprehensive analysis of spatiotemporal trends of PM2.5 chemical composition and deep understanding of the relationships between changes in emissions and ambient concentrations," explained Cheng.



In summary, this important study contributes valuable data for policy development and lays the groundwork for future epidemiological research to pinpoint the PM2.5 components most harmful to human health. 



Through such comprehensive research, the journey towards cleaner air and healthier communities continues, informed by science and guided by effective policy.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1352231023006143" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmospheric Environment</a>.



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Chemical composition of US air pollution has changed over time

A recent study offers new insights into the battle against...

The Arctic, a realm often perceived as desolate and inhospitable, teems with life at the microscopic level. These microorganisms, particularly Arctic seabed bacteria, play a crucial role in Earth's ecological balance.



This bacteria transforms biomass into substances that sequester carbon for extended periods. Their work is vital in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-free-arctic-summers-could-be-the-new-normal-by-2030/">cycle of life</a>, yet their existence and function remain largely underexplored.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-arctic-s-microbial-universe-life-beneath-the-ice">The Arctic's microbial universe: Life beneath the ice</h2>



Polar regions are characterized by extreme seasonality, diverging from the typical diurnal cycle to oscillate between the midnight sun of summer and the polar night of winter. 



This stark contrast affects local ecosystems, especially primary producers that rely on sunlight. Summer brings a flourish of algae and terrestrial life, while winter sees a dramatic pause in productivity. 



The impact of these seasonal shifts on seabed bacterial communities had not been thoroughly investigated until recently.



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.mpi-bremen.de/en/Home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology</a> in Bremen, Germany, embarked on a mission to the Svalbard archipelago to delve into the dynamics of these microbial communities. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncovering-the-mysteries-of-arctic-seabed-bacteria">Uncovering the mysteries of Arctic seabed bacteria</h2>



Their findings reveal surprising insights into the resilience and complexity of seabed bacteria.



Contrary to expectations, the composition of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-sea-ice-algae-heavily-contaminated-with-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacterial community</a> remains remarkably consistent throughout the year, despite significant fluctuations in organic matter and environmental conditions. 



This stability contrasts with the more variable communities found in the water column, showcasing the seabed bacteria's robustness. 



According to principal investigator Katrin Knittel, this complexity poses challenges but also highlights the community's resilience.



“Benthic bacterial communities -- i.e., those in the seabed -- are very complex,” Knittel adds. “That's what makes them so stable and robust, and it makes it very challenging for us to investigate their dynamics.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-the-arctic-s-algal-bounty">Transforming the Arctic's algal bounty</h2>



To understand this phenomenon, Knittel's team investigated the functional diversity of these microbes, focusing on their ability to degrade algal sugars. 



Their research uncovered seasonal variations in gene expression related to carbohydrate-degrading enzymes. 



In winter, enzymes targeting a-glucans predominate, reflecting the microbes' reliance on intracellular storage compounds. 



Spring sees a shift towards enzymes that break down b-glucans, like laminarin, indicating a change in dietary sources corresponding to the availability of fresh algal material.



These findings underscore the adaptability of seabed bacteria to their environment, utilizing different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-awakening-arctic-food-webs-are-transforming-from-green-to-brown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food sources</a> based on seasonal availability. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-implications-tiny-microbes-tremendous-impact">Global implications: Tiny microbes, tremendous impact</h2>



Their ability to switch between fresh material from the water column and reserves within the seabed demonstrates a remarkable ecological efficiency. This versatility is essential for their survival, especially in winter when external inputs are minimal.



The implications of this research extend beyond the confines of microbial ecology. As these bacteria process algal sugars, they release carbon dioxide, a potent greenhouse gas. 



Thus, these microorganisms, though small in scale, play a significant role in global carbon cycling and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate processes</a>.



The Arctic seabed's bacterial community maintains a surprisingly consistent presence across the seasons, actively thriving despite the region's pronounced seasonality. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-arctic-seabed-bacteria-is-a-challenge">Studying Arctic seabed bacteria is a challenge</h2>



However, the challenge of studying these bacteria in Spitsbergen's seabed wasn't solely due to their internal dynamics; the methodology also posed significant hurdles. 



Doctoral student Chyrene Moncada, a member of Knittel's team, explains the difficulties encountered in sample collection. 



“It is very difficult to obtain undisturbed samples of the seabed and the pore water contained between the sand grains,” explains doctoral student Chyrene Moncada, who is also working on the project. “That's why we developed our own device: the Ellrott grab.”



Named after its creator and co-author Andreas Ellrott, this sampling tool allows for the undisturbed collection of sediment from sandy beds. Its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for small research vessels. 



“Andreas is a brilliant engineer and designed and built the grab from scratch, manufacturing many of the components himself in a 3D printer,” says Moncada. 



“To date, we have already collected over 100 sediment samples from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-north-frisian-islands-and-the-wadden-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wadden Sea</a> and the fjords of Svalbard with the Ellrott grab - and we plan to collect many more!”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-and-future-implications">Conservation and future implications</h2>



In summary, this fascinating research has unveiled the remarkable resilience and stability of the Arctic seabed bacteria microbial communities, challenging previous assumptions about their variability across seasons. 



Through innovative methodologies, the team has successfully navigated the methodological challenges of sampling, enabling the detailed study of these vital ecosystems. 



The findings highlight the complexity and adaptability of Arctic seabed bacteria to extreme seasonal changes and underscore their significant role in global carbon cycles and climate change. 



As the team plans to expand their research with further sediment samples, their work continues to expand our knowledge on the hidden dynamics of the Arctic's underexplored microbial world, offering new insights into the intricate connections between microorganisms and global environmental processes.



The full study was published in <a href="https://academic.oup.com/ismej/article/18/1/wrad005/7512817" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The ISME Journal</a>.



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Arctic seabed bacteria play a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth

The Arctic, a realm often perceived as desolate and inhospitable,...

A new study utilizing advanced computational models has made a startling prediction about the future of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-ocean-currents-rainfall/">Atlantic</a> Ocean. 



Researchers suggest that a subduction zone located beneath the Gibraltar Strait is set to extend further into the Atlantic, potentially giving rise to an Atlantic Ring of Fire, akin to the Pacific's notorious volcanic and seismic belt.&nbsp;



This significant geological shift is expected to occur 'soon' on a geological scale, approximately 20 million years from now.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-wilson-cycle-nbsp">The Wilson Cycle&nbsp;</h2>



The concept of oceans as permanent fixtures on Earth's surface is challenged by the reality of the Wilson Cycle, which describes the birth, growth, and eventual closure of oceanic bodies over hundreds of millions of years.&nbsp;



The Atlantic Ocean itself, formed from the breakup of the supercontinent Pangea around 180 million years ago, is destined to follow this cycle and eventually close. The Mediterranean Sea stands as a remnant of the once vast Tethys Ocean that lay between Africa and Eurasia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subduction-invasion-nbsp">Subduction invasion&nbsp;</h2>



For the Atlantic to transition from expansion to closure, new subduction zones, where one tectonic plate dives beneath another, must emerge. However, the formation of subduction zones is a complex process due to the immense strength of tectonic plates.&nbsp;



A potential resolution to this "paradox" is the migration of subduction zones from older, contracting oceans, like the Mediterranean, to younger basins, such as the Atlantic - a process termed "subduction invasion."



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



This research marks the first illustration of such an invasion occurring directly. A sophisticated, gravity-driven 3-D model forecasts the expansion of a subduction zone beneath the Gibraltar Strait into the Atlantic, laying the groundwork for an Atlantic subduction system. This transformative event is predicted to unfold in roughly 20 million years.



João Duarte, the study's lead author from the Instituto Dom Luiz at the <a href="https://www.ulisboa.pt/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lisbon</a>'s Faculty of Sciences (Ciências ULisboa), Portugal, highlights the technological advancements enabling this discovery: “Subduction invasion is inherently a three-dimensional process that requires advanced modeling tools and supercomputers that were not available a few years ago. We can now simulate the formation of the Gibraltar Arc with great detail and also how it may evolve in the deep future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-insights-nbsp">Critical insights&nbsp;</h2>



The study also re-evaluates the activity of the Gibraltar subduction zone, which some researchers previously thought was dormant due to a slowdown in activity over the last million years. The findings suggest this lull will persist for another 20 million years before the zone invades the Atlantic and intensifies, marking the onset of crustal recycling on the Atlantic's eastern flank and potentially the beginning of the ocean's closure.



Duarte further explains the significance of studying the Gibraltar zone: “There are two other subduction zones on the other side of the Atlantic – the Lesser Antilles, in the Caribbean, and the Scotia Arc, near Antarctica. However, these subduction zones invaded the Atlantic several million years ago. Studying Gibraltar is an invaluable opportunity because it allows observing the process in its early stages when it is just happening.”



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



This research posits subduction invasion as a likely mechanism for initiating subduction in Atlantic-type oceans, underscoring its importance in Earth's geological evolution.&nbsp;



Moreover, the confirmation of ongoing activity in the Gibraltar subduction zone carries implications for seismic risk in the region, emphasizing the need for preparedness against potentially devastating earthquakes, reminiscent of the 1755 Great Lisbon Earthquake.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1130/G51654.1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a>.



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The Atlantic Ocean may soon enter its declining phase

A new study utilizing advanced computational models has made a...

Cold-water corals are found in the depths of the world's oceans, hundreds of meters below the surface. These corals are far removed from the sunlit environments that nurture vibrant tropical reefs.



A new study from the <a href="https://www.rug.nl/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Groningen</a> reveals the extraordinary lengths to which cold-water <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-corals-survive-warming-waters-by-remembering-heat-waves/">corals</a> go to survive and flourish, even as they face the looming threat of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shadowy-realms-nbsp">Shadowy realms&nbsp;</h2>



Unlike their tropical counterparts, cold-water corals do not bask in sunlight nor engage in a symbiotic relationship with algae for their brilliant hues. Instead, they reside in the shadowy realms off coasts like Ireland's, creating their own spectacular ecosystems vital to the ocean's health.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underwater-mountains-nbsp">Underwater mountains&nbsp;</h2>



The new <a href="https://research.rug.nl/en/publications/patterns-in-the-deep-sea-on-the-interaction-between-cold-water-co">study</a>, led by theoretical ecologist Anna van der Kaaden, highlights a peculiar behavior of these corals. In their quest for sustenance, they build vast underwater mountains, elevating themselves to capture more food carried by ocean currents.&nbsp;



These structures, formed over millennia, can surpass the height of the Eiffel Tower, showcasing the corals as "ecosystem engineers" who modify their environment to their advantage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-potential-trap">A potential trap</h2>



The irony of these monumental efforts is the potential trap they create for themselves. As Van der Kaaden points out, the very mountains that offer them abundant food and life might become their prisons. With the onset of climate change, warmer waters could compel the corals to seek cooler, deeper havens.



“When the water gets warmer, these creatures prefer to be deeper, but a coral doesn’t just walk down the mountain,” said Van der Kaaden.



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



Van der Kaaden conducted research on real reefs and using computational models. “In both cases, I tried to discover the spatial patterns in which the corals grow. With the Australian Great Barrier Reef, for example, this is very simple: you can even see their growth patterns from space." 



Van der Kaaden's exploration into the darkness wasn't straightforward. She ventured into what she describes as a dark maze. 



"With cold-water corals, you have to recognize these patterns while walking around in a pitch-dark maze, so to speak, with only a small flashlight. And yet, using statistical techniques and video stills, we did manage to get an overall picture."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ingenious-adaptation-nbsp">Ingenious adaptation&nbsp;</h2>



The findings not only shed light on the regular patterns of reefs, ridges, and mountains formed by these corals but also on their ingenious adaptation to manipulate water currents for food.



"Over hundreds of thousands of years, the coral reefs form mountains that can grow higher than the Eiffel Tower. So, the corals get higher in the ocean, where there is more food, and those mountains also create water currents that transport the food to the mountain."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-blooded-animals">Cold-blooded animals</h2>



The expectation is that if the water becomes too warm due to climate change, the corals will want to grow lower and colder.&nbsp;



"A cold-blooded animal like a coral uses up too much energy in warmer water. But a coral is an animal that is attached to the bottom, so it can't just move down the mountain," said Van der Kaaden.



"It disperses through larvae, but for new corals, the food conditions on the flanks of a coral mountain are worse because of the specific flow patterns."



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



Despite the potential challenges posed by climate change, Van der Kaaden remains cautiously optimistic about the future of cold-water corals.



"Maybe these organisms are more resilient than we think, and if not, they might build new mountains or reefs in other places. But with this research, I do want to show that an organism's response to climate change is not always easy to predict."



"There are many complex processes that create unexpected obstacles or opportunities. We, as a society must take that into account when preparing for the effects of climate change."



Image Credit: NOAA Fisheries



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Cold-water corals build mountains to battle climate change 

Cold-water corals are found in the depths of the world's...

The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the lungs of our planet, is edging closer to a critical tipping point that could trigger a widespread ecological collapse with far-reaching implications for the global climate system.



This dire warning comes from an international team of researchers, including experts from the <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research</a> (PIK). 



The study reveals a harrowing scenario in which up to 47 percent of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-is-drying-out-with-far-reaching-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazonian</a> forest could be lost, underscoring the urgent need for global and local action.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-multiple-stressors-on-the-amazon-rainforest">Multiple stressors on the Amazon rainforest</h2>



“The Southeastern Amazon has already shifted from a carbon sink to a source - meaning that the current amount of human pressure is too high for the region to maintain its status as a rainforest over the long term," said study co-author Boris Sakschewski.



"But the problem doesn't stop there. Since rainforests enrich the air with a lot of moisture which forms the basis of precipitation in the west and south of the continent, losing forest in one place can lead to losing forest in another in a self-propelling feedback loop or simply ‘tipping.’”



The researchers pinpointed the multifaceted stressors weakening the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-warming-amazon-deforestation-has-far-reaching-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon's resilience</a>, including increased temperatures, droughts, deforestation, and fires. 



By 2050, these disturbances are expected to threaten up to 47 percent of Amazonian forests, edging them closer to a tipping point beyond which recovery might be impossible.&nbsp;



The researchers identified five critical drivers of this tipping point: global warming, annual rainfall amounts, rainfall seasonality intensity, dry season length, and accumulated deforestation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-far-reaching-impact-of-the-amazon-rainforest">Far-reaching impact of the Amazon rainforest</h2>



The experts propose safe boundaries for these drivers to prevent crossing the tipping point, such as maintaining mean annual rainfall above 1000 mm to ensure the rainforest's existence.



“We found for example that for mean annual rainfall below 1,000 mm per year, the Amazon rainforest cannot exist. However, below 1,800 mm per year, abrupt transitions from rainforest to a Savanna-like vegetation become possible. This can be triggered by individual droughts or forest fires, which both have become more frequent and more severe in recent years," explained study co-author Da Nian.



The study also highlights the broader impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brazilian-amazon-crisis-deforestation-is-escalating-in-indigenous-territories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon forest loss</a> on global warming and regional precipitation patterns. The flows of atmospheric moisture from the Amazon, known as "flying rivers," are essential for the South American Monsoon system and, by extension, rainfall across the continent. 



Furthermore, the carbon stored in the Amazon, equivalent to 15-20 years of current human CO2 emissions, underscores the global stakes of preserving this rainforest.



Study lead author Bernardo Flores raised concerns about the compounding disturbances within the Amazon's core.&nbsp;



“Compounding disturbances are increasingly common within the core of the Amazon," said Flores. "If these disturbances act in synergy, we may observe unexpected ecosystem transitions in areas previously considered as resilient, such as the moist forests of the western and central Amazon.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-reinforced-forest-loss">Self-reinforced forest loss</h2>



The researchers investigated the consequences of disturbed forests across the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazons-rainforests-are-at-risk-of-transforming-into-dry-grassy-savannas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon</a>, noting that some areas might recover but remain in a degraded state, while others may transition to an open-canopy, flammable state, exacerbating the spread of fires. 



“We have evidence showing that rising temperatures, extreme droughts and fires can affect how the forest functions and change which tree species can integrate the forest system," said study co-author Dr. Adriane Esquivel-Muelbert.



"With the acceleration of global change there’s an increasing likelihood that we will see positive feedback loops in which, rather than being able to repair itself, the forest loss becomes self-reinforced.”&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06970-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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The Amazon rainforest is approaching widespread collapse 

The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the lungs of...

Scientists from <a href="https://tulane.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tulane University</a> have unveiled findings that could significantly alter our understanding of the future impact of climate change on coastal wetlands. 



This research, described as a "time travel" study, provides a glimpse into the potential future of coastal marshes under the threat of rising sea levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-opportunity-nbsp">Unexpected opportunity&nbsp;</h2>



Traditionally, the scientific community has relied on computer models to forecast the long-term effects of climate change, particularly sea-level rise. However, an unexpected opportunity arose along the Gulf Coast, following the devastation caused by hurricanes Katrina and Rita.&nbsp;



In response to these natural disasters, an extensive network of nearly 400 monitoring sites was established along the Louisiana coast. This network was primarily intended to monitor the recovery and changes in the coastal landscape post-hurricanes.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-sea-level-rise-nbsp">Extreme sea-level rise&nbsp;</h2>



After the monitoring network was established, the Gulf Coast region experienced a dramatic increase in the rate of sea-level rise, exceeding more than 10 millimeters (half an inch) per year. This is at least three times the global average.&nbsp;



This accelerated rate of sea-level rise subjected the area to conditions not expected until around 2070, providing a unique, real-world laboratory for scientists to study the potential impacts of future climate change on coastal wetlands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-into-the-future">Looking into the future</h2>



“It is the dream of every field researcher who does experiments – we can basically travel 50 years into the future to get a peek at what’s in store,” said Torbjörn Törnqvist, a professor in the Tulane Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences.



The researchers utilized innovative techniques developed by European scientists, which allowed for the measurement of sea-level rise directly off the coast using satellite data. This approach was previously unavailable, marking a significant advancement in the study of climate impacts.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-climate-impact-experiment-nbsp">Unprecedented climate impact experiment&nbsp;</h2>



By comparing the rate of water-level rise at each monitoring site with the rate of wetland elevation change, the researchers discovered that almost 90% of the sites were experiencing a deficit, indicating that the wetlands were not keeping pace with the rising sea levels.



“To our knowledge, this is the first time that a climate impact experiment has been carried out over a region this large, based on hundreds of monitoring stations that have collected data for about 15 years,” said&nbsp; PhD candidate Guandong Li, who led the study. “This has also allowed us to study the climate impact on a heavily human-influenced landscape, rather than a more resilient pristine ecosystem.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-results">Alarming results</h2>



The results show that if the current climate scenario persists, by 2070, approximately 75% of wetland sites will be in deficit, potentially leading to a rate of wetland loss much higher than what has been observed over the past century.&nbsp;



This prediction underscores the urgency of addressing climate change to mitigate its impacts on coastal ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glimmer-of-hope-nbsp">Glimmer of hope&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers also offer a glimmer of hope, suggesting that immediate action to meet the targets set by the Paris Agreement and reduce carbon emissions could lead to a more sustainable climate trajectory.&nbsp;



This proactive approach could significantly reduce the rate of wetland loss, preserving these critical ecosystems for future generations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.17882/74354" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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'Time travel' study reveals the fate of coastal marshes 

Scientists from Tulane University have unveiled findings that could significantly...

Climate change is a major threat, but what do people around the world actually think about taking action? Do most people want to fight climate change or leave it to future generations?



To understand the global perspectives on the fight against climate change, researchers from the <a href="https://www.uni-bonn.de/en/university/university">University of Bonn</a>, <a href="https://safe-frankfurt.de/">Leibniz Institute for Financial Research SAFE</a>, and <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/">University of Copenhagen</a> carried out an intriguing survey.



The experts interviewed nearly 130,000 people from 125 countries to understand their perception. The results shed surprising light on global attitudes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-willingness-to-fight-climate-change">Global willingness to fight climate change</h2>



The survey revealed a strong global agreement on the need for urgent action to fight climate change.



A vast majority would dedicate 1% of their income to tackling climate change, with most overwhelmingly backing green policies (86%) and demanding bolder leadership (89%).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perception-gap-nbsp">Perception gap&nbsp;</h2>



A surprising yet encouraging finding of the survey is the "perception gap": people around the world underestimate how much others care about fighting climate change. This misperception, known as pluralistic ignorance, can create a sense of isolation and discouragement among individuals who do care.&nbsp;



The perception gap, quantified at 26 percentage points, reveals a discrepancy: while 69% of people surveyed said they'd give 1% of their income to help fight climate change, they thought on average that only 43% of others would do the same.



Researchers warn that this misjudging the extent to which others are willing to act on an issue can significantly stifle individual motivation to participate. This creates a vicious cycle where inaction breeds more inaction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-discrepancies">Clear discrepancies</h2>



Furthermore, citizens in countries more vulnerable to climate change are more likely to fight it. Specifically, the study found that people in richer countries (measured by their average income) are less likely to want to donate money to fight climate change.&nbsp;



Citizens of wealthy nations are less willing to give even 1% of their income compared to people in poorer countries. This might be because they worry about the cost of fixing the problem or changing their present lifestyle.



On the other hand, people in countries with hotter weather, which might already be suffering from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-endured-rapid-global-warming-300-million-years-ago/">global warming</a>, are more likely to want to help. This suggests that when people experience the negative effects of climate change firsthand, they're more willing to fix and adapt to it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-knowing-doing-gap-nbsp">Knowing-doing gap&nbsp;</h2>



Overall, most people from the survey agreed we need to tackle climate change, but many worry others won't act. Researchers propose a straightforward solution to bridge this "knowing-doing gap": open and honest communication.



Openly sharing the high level of global willingness to contribute to climate action could be a powerful motivator, driving individual and community action forward. This could also help get rid of common myths and misunderstanding related to climate change.



Understanding the shared concern for the planet can unlock a surge of collective action, where cooperative behaviors ripple outwards across communities and society.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-you-can-do-to-fight-climate-change">What YOU can do to fight climate change</h2>



As discussed above, climate change poses a significant threat to our planet, impacting weather patterns, ecosystems, and human livelihoods. 



However, every individual has the power to make a difference. Here's how ordinary people around the world, like you and me, can contribute to the fight against climate change through simple, actionable steps.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-reuse-recycle">Reduce, reuse, recycle</h3>



Reduce your consumption of goods. Before purchasing, consider if it's necessary or if you can do without it. Reducing waste not only saves resources but also decreases the energy spent on production and disposal.



Reuse items whenever possible. Opt for reusable bags, bottles, and containers, reducing the demand for single-use plastics and products. Reusing extends the life of products, minimizing waste.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infinitely-recyclable-plastics-may-soon-become-a-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Recycle materials</a> like paper, glass, and plastic. Recycling helps to reduce the need for raw materials, saving energy and preventing greenhouse gas emissions from extraction and processing.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-embrace-sustainable-transportation">Embrace sustainable transportation</h3>



Walk or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cycling-could-dramatically-cut-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bike</a> for short distances to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions. This not only benefits the environment but also improves your health.



Use public transportation when possible. Trains, buses, and trams are more energy-efficient per passenger than individual cars.



Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Sharing rides can significantly decrease the carbon footprint of your commute.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conserve-energy-to-fight-climate-change">Conserve energy to fight climate change</h3>



Switch to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biden-moves-to-phase-out-energy-inefficient-light-bulbs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LED bulbs</a> which use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last longer, reducing both energy consumption and waste.



Unplug electronics when not in use. Many devices consume energy even when turned off but still plugged in, known as "phantom loads."



Improve home insulation to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, reducing the need for heating and air conditioning.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-renewable-energy">Support renewable energy</h3>



Choose renewable energy sources if available in your area. Opting for electricity from wind, solar, or hydro sources reduces reliance on fossil fuels.



Invest in solar panels for your home if possible. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-power-has-won-the-prize-to-become-earths-main-source-of-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solar energy</a> can significantly reduce your electricity bills and carbon footprint.



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



Support environmental policies by voting for leaders and initiatives that prioritize climate action. Public policy can drive large-scale environmental and economic shifts towards sustainability.



Educate others about the importance of fighting climate change. Sharing knowledge can inspire more individuals to take action.



Support organizations working towards environmental conservation and climate change mitigation. Donations, volunteering, or even spreading the word can amplify their impact.



In summary, the fight against climate change requires collective action from everyone. By adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives, advocating for positive change, and supporting renewable energy, ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact. Together, we can protect our planet for future generations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-01925-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change.</a>



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People want to fight climate change more than you think

Climate change is a major threat, but what do people...

A pioneering study led by the <a href="https://umich.edu/">University of Michigan</a> (U-M), utilizing advanced artificial intelligence and social media analytics, has found that approximately 15% of Americans are skeptical about the reality of climate change. 



This revelation comes at a time when scientific consensus has repeatedly warned of the increasing risks posed by a warming climate, including heightened occurrences of flooding, wildfires, and sea-level rise, among other disasters.



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



Drawing on Twitter data spanning from 2017 to 2019, the researchers employed AI techniques to gauge public sentiment on climate change, mapping out both belief and denial across the United States.&nbsp;



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-50591-6">Scientific Reports</a> on February 14, delves into the role social media plays in propagating climate change denialism, pinpointing influential figures, such as former President Donald Trump, who have significantly contributed to spreading misinformation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-media-data-nbsp">Social media data&nbsp;</h2>



"Prior to the advancement of AI and social media data, this work relied on expensive and time-consuming surveys," explained Joshua Newell, the study's senior author and a professor at U-M's School for Environment and Sustainability.



By analyzing over 7.4 million geocoded tweets with ChatGPT's Large Language Model, the team distinguished tweets as either supporting or opposing climate change, subsequently mapping these attitudes at both state and county levels. This analysis not only confirmed the 14.8% national denial rate, aligning with prior studies, but also highlighted demographic and geographic patterns in climate change skepticism.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overall-trends-nbsp">Overall trends&nbsp;</h2>



The findings indicate a higher acceptance of climate change along the U.S. coasts, whereas central and southern regions, including Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, and North Dakota, exhibit higher rates of denialism. Intrastate variances were also notable; for instance, California's Shasta County and Texas's Hockley County showed significantly higher denial rates than their respective state averages.



Political affiliation emerged as a dominant factor influencing climate change beliefs, with a notable correlation between Republican voters and climate change skepticism. The study also observed a link between climate denialism and low COVID-19 vaccination rates, suggesting a broader trend of skepticism towards scientific consensus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaping-public-opinion-nbsp">Shaping public opinion&nbsp;</h2>



The study also ventures into the social media landscape, identifying key influencers and the formation of distinct communities around climate change belief and denial, largely operating within echo chambers with minimal cross-communication.



"The most heavily retweeted post includes one by Trump that questions climate change due to unusually cold weather in the U.S., and another where he casts doubt on a U.N. climate report," Newell noted, emphasizing the influence of prominent figures in shaping public opinion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combating-misinformation-nbsp">Combating misinformation&nbsp;</h2>



Given the divisive nature of climate change discourse, the researchers advocate for social media platforms to take a more active role in flagging misinformation and consider stricter policies against users who perpetuate falsehoods about climate change.



"This study provides a basis for developing strategies to counter this knowledge vulnerability," Newell concluded, stressing the importance of combating misinformation to foster a more informed public discourse on climate change.



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More than 48 million Americans deny that climate change is real

A pioneering study led by the University of Michigan (U-M),...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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.

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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.

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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.

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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.

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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.

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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