<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...

Tropical,Jungle,Lianas,,Exotic,Forest,Plants,,Exotic,Forest,Plants.,Woody

In the face of Earth's hottest year on record, has unveiled a disturbing trend: woody vines, known as lianas, are aggressively overtaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-forest-biodiversity-has-massive-potential-for-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> worldwide. 



This phenomenon, discovered in a pivotal global study spearheaded by the University of the Sunshine Coast (<a href="https://www.usc.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UniSC</a>), poses a significant threat to these ecosystems' ability to mitigate climate change by storing carbon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tipping-point-climate-and-disturbance">Tipping point: Climate and disturbance</h2>



This research encompasses a remarkable scope, spanning 44 countries across five continents. The team's comprehensive analysis has pinpointed the forests most at risk, revealing a particular vulnerability in tropical, low-elevation forests. 



Notable examples include regions in East Africa, Vietnam, Colombia, and Australia's Wet Tropics, among numerous others worldwide.



Professor Andy Marshall, from UniSC's Forest Research Institute, emphasizes the study's discovery of a "tipping point" – a critical juncture where the dominance of lianas becomes pronounced. 



This point is reached when the mean annual temperature exceeds 27.8° Celsius, coupled with rainfall less than 1,614 mm, particularly in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-modeling-study-reveals-new-insights-into-carbon-sequestration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> already disturbed by human activities like logging and clearing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-woody-vine-dominance">Implications of woody vine dominance</h2>



Lianas, by their very nature, choke trees and impede their growth as they climb towards the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-becoming-less-productive-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest canopy</a>. 



"Woody vines are increasingly taking over the world's forests," said Marshall. "For the first time, we have a global assessment that confirms that forest disturbance and climatic factors are major drivers of liana dominance."



These findings are crucial for the restoration of the world's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-forests-are-unexpected-heroes-of-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>. "They allow us to know where to concentrate our efforts for restoration and identify future areas of concern in a changing climate," explains Marshall.



He further highlights that environmental conditions fostering liana vines could out-compete trees and stall recovery in disturbed native forests globally.



Professor Marshall draws particular attention to Australia, where the coastal and low-elevation forests of north Queensland are most vulnerable. 



"In Australia, the coastal and low-elevation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-with-many-tree-species-are-more-effective-at-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> of north Queensland are the most vulnerable— adding to the ongoing threat of deforestation which, in Queensland, is already greater than any other developed country," he said.



"With warmer temperatures and ongoing disturbances from logging and clearing, those forests areas under threat from liana around the world are only going to increase."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-woody-vines-are-thriving-in-climate-change">Woody vines are thriving in climate change</h2>



Tracing back to his first rainforest expedition in East Africa in 1998, Professor Marshall recalls his intrigue with the vines blanketing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protected-forests-offset-a-years-worth-of-global-fossil-fuel-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a>. 



Since then, research has escalated in scale, predominantly with local or regional focuses, leading to this global study.



This research is grounded in an "unprecedented dataset" from 651 vegetation samples representing 26,538 lianas and 82,802 trees, from 556 unique locations worldwide, derived from 83 research publications. 



The collaborative effort involved 20 co-authors from diverse research institutions across continents including Australia, South Africa, the UK, Singapore, Panama, Brazil, the USA, and China.



The study reveals that lianas are better adapted to climate change conditions, such as warmer temperatures, lower rainfall, and disturbances like fire, logging, and clearing. 



Their dominance over trees hampers the latter's recovery from disturbances, a situation that can persist for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-sink-dilemma">Carbon sink dilemma</h2>



Forests, alongside oceans and soil, are the world's largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boreal-and-temperate-forests-have-emerged-as-the-main-carbon-sinks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sinks</a>. The encroachment of lianas not only contributes to forest loss and degradation but also exacerbates the threat to this vital carbon sink. 



The urgency now lies in developing sensitive, effective solutions to help trees recover from vine domination and to restore the global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-are-losing-their-carbon-storage-capacity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon sink</a>.



However, Professor Marshall cautions against the full-scale clearing of lianas. He underscores the role of lianas in forest ecosystems and biodiversity -- from boosting soil fertility and carbon cycling to benefiting other plants, animals, soils, and overall ecosystem function, in both intact and disturbed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-diversity-increases-carbon-storage-in-forest-soils/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>. 



"We certainly wouldn't want this work to lead to forest managers going and cutting out all these vines out of their forests," he said. "Liana plays its part in the forest ecosystem and biodiversity by boosting soil fertility and carbon cycling, and can benefit other plants, animals, soils and overall ecosystem function, in both intact and disturbed forests."



The challenge is to manage their growth, which, under human impact, has become excessively high and unnatural.



"It is just that human impact is so great in some areas, that they are growing in very high numbers, they are not growing in a natural way," Marshall concluded.



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



As discussed above, woody vines, known scientifically as lianas, are becoming increasingly significant in our ecosystems. 



These climbing plants, often found in tropical and subtropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-creates-an-unclear-future-for-u-s-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, have shown a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in changing environmental conditions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptability-of-woody-vines">Adaptability of woody vines</h3>



Woody vines possess unique characteristics that enable them to flourish in diverse environments. 



They typically use trees or other vertical structures for support, allowing them to reach sunlight more efficiently than their non-climbing counterparts. 



This ability gives them a competitive edge, especially in dense forests where light is a precious resource.



The growth of woody vines has profound implications for forest ecosystems. By climbing and enveloping trees, they often hinder the trees' ability to grow and reproduce. 



This interaction can lead to reduced forest density and diversity, impacting the overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-carbon-buried-deep-beneath-the-forest-is-disrupted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> of the ecosystem. 



Moreover, the aggressive nature of these vines often makes them a dominant species in disturbed habitats, such as areas affected by logging or deforestation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-woody-vines-and-climate-change">Woody vines and climate change</h3>



Climate change plays a significant role in the proliferation of woody vines. These plants have shown a remarkable resilience to changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, often outcompeting other species in altered environments. 



As such, they are becoming more prevalent in regions experiencing the effects of climate change, reshaping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secondary-forests-reconnect-fragmented-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest landscapes</a> and biodiversity.



Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, the increasing dominance of woody vines poses a challenge to this vital function. 



By inhibiting tree growth and survival, they can potentially reduce the capacity of forests to sequester carbon, thus exacerbating the impact of climate change.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-balanced-ecosystem-management">Need for balanced ecosystem management</h3>



In summary, woody vines are an intriguing yet challenging component of our natural world. As discussed here in depth, the rise of woody vines underscores the need for effective ecosystem management. 



While these plants are a natural part of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-in-the-treetops-canopy-soils-protect-the-forest-below/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest ecosystems</a> and contribute to biodiversity, their uncontrolled growth can lead to ecological imbalances. 



As the world grapples with climate change, understanding and addressing the rise of lianas in forests becomes an essential part of our global environmental strategy. 



The balance between forest conservation and management is delicate, yet critical, for the health of our planet.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.17140">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Woody vines strangle trees and takeover forests as temperatures get hotter

In the face of Earth's hottest year on record, has...

The concept of life's emergence in a "warm little pond," as postulated by Charles Darwin, has fascinated scientists for generations. An intriguing study from the <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a> reexamines this theory that life on Earth evolved in shallow soda lakes. 



Researchers have found that soda lakes, particularly a shallow one in western Canada, may provide the perfect conditions for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-building-blocks-of-life-form/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birth of life</a>, a hypothesis that reimagines our understanding of life's origins on Earth about 4 billion years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-life-s-molecular-origins">Tracing life's molecular origins</h2>



The journey to this discovery began with the acknowledgment that life's complex molecules can spontaneously form under specific conditions. 



This notion, dramatized in the popular film “Lessons in Chemistry,” is rooted in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miller%E2%80%93Urey_experiment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">real-life breakthroughs</a> of the 1950s and beyond. 



These advancements revealed the spontaneous formation of amino acids and, later, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifes-building-blocks-may-have-formed-near-newborn-stars-and-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks</a> of RNA. However, a significant hurdle, known as the “phosphate problem,” stood in the way. 



The emergence of life requires high phosphate concentrations, far exceeding those found in natural water bodies like rivers, lakes, or oceans.



“I think these soda lakes provide an answer to the phosphate problem,” said senior author <a href="https://environment.uw.edu/faculty/david-catling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">David Catling</a>, a UW professor of Earth and space sciences. 



“Our answer is hopeful: This environment should occur on the early Earth, and probably on other planets, because it's just a natural outcome of the way that planetary surfaces are made and how water chemistry works," Catling explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-soda-lakes-are-unique">Why soda lakes are unique</h2>



These lakes are unique due to their high levels of dissolved sodium and carbonate, akin to baking soda, resulting from interactions between water and volcanic rocks. 



Moreover, they can contain elevated phosphate levels, potentially solving the puzzle of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-asteroids-were-formed-in-cold-regions-of-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life's emergence</a>.



In 2019, University of Washington researchers had <a href="https://www.washington.edu/news/2019/12/30/life-lakes-high-phosphorus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theorized</a> that soda lakes could naturally concentrate phosphate to levels a million times higher than typical waters. 



Their latest study aimed to confirm this in a real-world setting, leading them to Last Chance Lake in British Columbia, Canada. 



This shallow, murky lake, situated on federal land, rests above volcanic rock and experiences conditions ideal for a soda lake: low water levels and high compound concentration due to evaporation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cradles-of-life-on-earth-and-other-planets">Cradles of life on Earth and other planets</h2>



The team's analysis, as published in their recent paper, suggests that soda lakes could indeed be cradles for the emergence of life on Earth and potentially on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-a-galaxy-12-billion-light-years-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other planets</a>. 



“We studied a natural environment that should be common throughout the solar system. Volcanic rocks are prevalent on the surfaces of planets, so this same water chemistry could have occurred not just on early Earth, but also on early Mars and early Venus, if liquid water was present,” said lead author <a href="https://ess.uw.edu/people/sebastian-haas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sebastian Haas</a>, a UW postdoctoral researcher in Earth and space sciences.



Volcanic rock prevalence on planetary surfaces suggests that similar chemical processes could have occurred on early Mars and Venus, given the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-discovery-earths-building-blocks-contained-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquid water</a>.



The research team visited <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/aDDRiCqjTGBWbhPx7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Last Chance Lake</a> three times in 2021-2022, collecting samples of water, lake sediment, and salt crust to understand its unique chemistry. 



In most lakes, phosphate binds with calcium to form insoluble calcium phosphate. However, in Last Chance Lake, calcium combines with carbonate and magnesium to form dolomite, leaving phosphate in high concentration in the water.



“You have this seemingly dry salt flat, but there are nooks and crannies. And between the salt and the sediment there are little pockets of water that are really high in dissolved phosphate,” Haas said. 



“What we wanted to understand was why and when could this happen on the ancient Earth, in order to provide a cradle for the origin of life.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-tale-of-two-soda-lakes">A tale of two soda lakes</h2>



Interestingly, the study also compared Last Chance Lake with nearby Goodenough Lake to understand why life hadn't consumed the high phosphate levels in Last Chance Lake. 



The findings revealed that the saltiness of Last Chance Lake inhibited lifeforms that fix nitrogen, unlike in Goodenough Lake, which supports life that consumes phosphate. 



“This study adds to growing evidence that evaporative soda lakes are environments meeting the requirements for origin-of-life chemistry by accumulating key ingredients at high concentrations,” Catling said.



This characteristic makes Last Chance Lake a more accurate representation of a lifeless early Earth environment.



Professor Catling emphasizes the broader implications of this research for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bouncing-comets-could-deliver-lifes-building-blocks-to-exoplanets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life's origins</a>.



“These new findings will help inform origin-of-life researchers who are either replicating these reactions in the lab or are looking for potentially habitable environments on other planets,” Catling concluded.



In summary, the University of Washington's study on soda lakes, particularly Last Chance Lake, opens a fascinating window into the past, offering a plausible answer to the long-standing question of how life might have emerged on our planet and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-has-a-water-reservoir-two-miles-deep-enough-to-fill-earths-red-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">possibly others</a>. 



This discovery not only enriches our understanding of life's origins but also expands the horizons of our search for life beyond Earth.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-023-01192-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Life on Earth may have first sparked in shallow "soda lakes"

The concept of life's emergence in a "warm little pond,"...

In a significant announcement, the <a href="https://thebulletin.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists</a> has decided to keep the hands of the Doomsday Clock fixed at 90 seconds to midnight for 2024, signaling a sustained moment of historic danger. 



This decision reflects the ongoing ominous trends that threaten global catastrophe, and emphasizes the urgency of addressing major global threats.



The experts indicate that the decision to maintain the Doomsday Clock's position is not due to a stabilization of global threats but rather to the continued presence of significant dangers. 



The unchanged setting at 90 seconds to midnight, the closest ever in history, underscores the critical nature of the current global situation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-symbol-of-global-peril">A symbol of global peril</h2>



The Doomsday Clock, first set in 1947, is a metaphorical design that highlights the proximity of humanity to self-destruction due to dangerous technologies of our own making.&nbsp;



Initially, the focus was on the nuclear threat during the post-World War II era, especially the potential nuclear arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union. In 2007, the Bulletin expanded its scope to include catastrophic disruptions from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/">climate change</a>.



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



Rachel Bronson, the Bulletin's president and CEO, articulated the urgency of the situation. She stressed that the unchanged time on the Doomsday Clock does not imply stability but a pressing need for action from governments and communities worldwide.&nbsp;



"Conflict hotspots around the world carry the threat of nuclear escalation, climate change is already causing death and destruction, and disruptive technologies like AI and biological research advance faster than their safeguards," said Bronson.



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



The Doomsday Clock was conceptualized by scientists involved in the Manhattan Project, which developed the first nuclear weapons during World War II. Artist Martyl Langsdorf, tasked with creating a design for the Bulletin's June 1947 magazine cover, was inspired by the urgency and responsibility felt by these scientists.&nbsp;



Initially considering the symbol for uranium, Langsdorf eventually chose a clock to convey the critical time pressure to control atomic weapons.



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



"Ominous trends continue to point the world toward global catastrophe. The war in Ukraine and the widespread and growing reliance on nuclear weapons increase the risk of nuclear escalation. China, Russia, and the United States are all spending huge sums to expand or modernize their nuclear arsenals, adding to the ever-present danger of nuclear war through mistake or miscalculation," the experts wrote in their <a href="https://thebulletin.org/doomsday-clock/current-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024 statement</a>.



"In 2023, Earth experienced its hottest year on record, and massive floods, wildfires, and other climate-related disasters affected millions of people around the world. Meanwhile, rapid and worrisome developments in the life sciences and other disruptive technologies accelerated, while governments made only feeble efforts to control them."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deteriorating-state-of-the-world">Deteriorating state of the world</h2>



"The members of the <a href="https://thebulletin.org/about-us/science-and-security-board/">Science and Security Board</a> have been deeply worried about the deteriorating state of the world. That is why we set the Doomsday Clock at two minutes to midnight in 2019 and at 100 seconds to midnight in 2022."



"Last year, we expressed our heightened concern by moving the Clock to 90 seconds to midnight - the closest to global catastrophe it has ever been - in large part because of Russian threats to use nuclear weapons in the war in Ukraine."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-level-of-danger-nbsp">Unprecedented level of danger&nbsp;</h2>



"Today, we once again set the Doomsday Clock at 90 seconds to midnight because humanity continues to face an unprecedented level of danger."



The team says that leaders and citizens around the world should take this statement as a stark warning and respond urgently, as if today were the most dangerous moment in modern history. "Because it may well be…But the world can be made safer. The Clock can move away from midnight."&nbsp;



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



In response to the grave warning represented by the Doomsday Clock, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has removed the paywall for the latest issue of its magazine, encouraging public engagement and awareness.&nbsp;



The publication focuses on actions that individuals and communities can undertake to mitigate these global threats, emphasizing the role of citizens in steering away from the brink of catastrophe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-younger-generations">Younger generations</h2>



Despite the grim warning symbolized by the Doomsday Clock, Bronson notes a glimmer of hope, particularly in the proactive stance of younger generations. Their involvement and leadership in addressing these global challenges provide a beacon of hope.



As the Doomsday Clock remains at a perilous 90 seconds to midnight, the world faces a critical juncture. The collective effort of global citizens and leaders is essential to turn back the hands of the Clock.&nbsp;



The Bulletin's initiative to educate and involve the public is a crucial step in this direction, but it is the actions of individuals and governments that will ultimately determine the fate of the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-turn-back-the-clock-nbsp">How to turn back the clock&nbsp;</h2>



"Everyone on Earth has an interest in reducing the likelihood of global catastrophe from nuclear weapons, climate change, advances in the life sciences, disruptive technologies, and the widespread corruption of the world’s information ecosystem," wrote the Bulletin team.&nbsp;



"These threats, singularly and as they interact, are of such a character and magnitude that no one nation or leader can bring them under control. That is the task of leaders and nations working together in the shared belief that common threats demand common action."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



"As the first step, and despite their profound disagreements, three of the world’s leading powers - the United States, China, and Russia - should commence serious dialogue about each of the global threats outlined here."&nbsp;



"At the highest levels, these three countries need to take responsibility for the existential danger the world now faces. They have the capacity to pull the world back from the brink of catastrophe. They should do so, with clarity and courage, and without delay."



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Countdown to catastrophe: Doomsday Clock remains unchanged 

In a significant announcement, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists...

Researchers at <a href="https://engineering.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU Tandon School of Engineering</a> have made a significant advancement in addressing the global water crisis. The team is using redox flow desalination (RFD) technology to convert seawater into drinkable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-hydrogel-device-turns-hot-summer-air-into-drinkable-water/">water</a>, while also harnessing renewable energy.&nbsp;



Led by Dr. André Taylor, professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, the research aims for both effective water desalination and sustainable energy storage.&nbsp;



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



"Although water is abundant on Earth, global statistics estimate that up to 66% of the world’s population suffers from water insecurity," wrote the study authors. "Worse, the challenge of securing adequate drinkable water is expected to worsen due to the combined effects of climate change and population growth."&nbsp;



"In regions lacking access to suitable water sources, seawater desalination plays a crucial role in providing potable water."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dual-benefits-nbsp">Dual benefits&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers documented a 20% increase in the RFD system's salt removal rate and a reduction in energy demand.  



"By seamlessly integrating energy storage and desalination, our vision is to create a sustainable and efficient solution that not only meets the growing demand for freshwater but also champions environmental conservation and renewable energy integration.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storing-excess-energy-nbsp">Storing excess energy&nbsp;</h2>



RFD's inherent versatility lies in its ability to store excess energy from intermittent renewable sources, like solar and wind, and release it during peak demand. This aligns well with the fluctuating energy requirements of desalination processes, making RFD an eco-friendly alternative to traditional desalination methods.&nbsp;



“The success of this project is attributed to the ingenuity and perseverance of Stephen Akwei Maclean, the paper’s first author and a NYU Tandon PhD candidate in chemical and biomolecular engineering,” said Dr. Taylor. “He demonstrated exceptional skill by designing the system architecture using advanced 3D printing technology available at the NYU Maker Space.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-technology-works">How the technology works</h2>



The redox flow desalination system works by dividing incoming seawater into two streams, the salinating and the desalinating streams. Alongside these, two additional channels contain the electrolyte and redox molecule. The system uses a cation exchange membrane (CEM) or an anion exchange membrane (AEM) for effective separation.&nbsp;



In this setup, ions and electrons move through the channels, resulting in a freshwater stream and a concentrated brine stream. "We can control the incoming seawater residence time to produce drinkable water by operating the system in a single pass or batch mode," said Maclean.



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



Moreover, the RFD system can function in reverse, converting the stored chemical energy back into renewable electricity. This unique feature enables RFD systems to act as a kind of "battery," capturing and releasing energy as needed, thus contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.



While the technology is promising, further research is needed to refine the redox flow desalination process, making it more cost-effective. However, the NYU Tandon team's findings mark a critical step forward in the quest for efficient desalination methods, especially as climate change and population growth exacerbate water scarcity.



The success of this project aligns with the mission of DC-MUSE, which focuses on reducing the environmental impact of chemical processes through renewable energy.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrp.2023.101761" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports Physical Science</a>.&nbsp;



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Converting seawater into drinkable water is now more sustainable

Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have made a...

Evening,View,Of,The,Industrial,Landscape,Of,The,City,With

The Met Office in Britain, in its recent announcement, has raised significant concerns about 2024 and the escalating levels of CO2 in the atmosphere.



The forecast predicts that in 2024, the increase in carbon dioxide levels will surpass critical trajectories, crucial for limiting global warming to 1.5°C.



The assertion from researchers is stark: only "drastic" reductions in emissions can retain this target within achievable bounds.



 “This year’s estimated rise in atmospheric carbon-dioxide concentration is well above all three 1.5°C-compatible scenarios highlighted in the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/">IPCC report</a>," said <a href="https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/research/people/richard-betts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Richard Betts</a>, the Met Office author of the CO2 forecast.



"Even when we compensate for the temporary effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mountains-impact-el-nino-winters-and-snowfall-amounts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a>, we find that human-induced emissions would still cause the CO2 rise in 2024 to be on the absolute limits of compliance with the 1.5°C pathways," Betts added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-paris-agreement-s-goal-is-slipping-away">The Paris Agreement's goal is slipping away</h2>



A key driver of this anticipated rise is the dual impact of escalating emissions from fossil fuels and deforestation. 



Compounding this effect in 2024 is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forecasters-warn-of-weather-chaos-as-el-nino-arrives-early/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> weather pattern, known to diminish the carbon-absorbing capacity of tropical forests. 



Consequently, the <a href="https://gml.noaa.gov/obop/mlo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mauna Loa Observatory</a> in Hawaii anticipates a "relatively large" surge in annual average CO2 concentrations, estimating an increase of approximately 2.84 parts per million (ppm) from the previous year.



This increase is likely to steer the world away from the main pathways outlined by the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a>) for maintaining global warming within 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. 



This goal, set by the 2015 Paris Agreement, is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve. 



“The atmospheric CO2 rise has accelerated over the last six decades. If global warming is to stay below 1.5°C, the rate of build-up of CO2 in the atmosphere would need to slow substantially in the coming years, and halt altogether before mid-century. The forecast for 2024 CO2 levels does not show such a slowing," Betts explained further.



He further noted that while technically possible, meeting this target requires immediate and significant emission reductions, a scenario not currently reflected in the IPCC's projections.



The impending risk is clear: the world is inching closer to witnessing individual years where warming exceeds 1.5°C. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surge-in-2024-atmospheric-co2-levels">Surge in 2024 atmospheric CO2 levels</h2>



Although such instances would not constitute a direct breach of the Paris Agreement, which averages these figures over two decades, they are a stark reminder of the escalating climate crisis. 



The IPCC has already warned that, should emissions continue unabated, the 1.5°C threshold could be surpassed in the early 2030s. 



"We're not seeing any signs of avoiding that in terms of the buildup of CO2 in the atmosphere," Betts added.



The <a href="https://wmo.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Meteorological Organization</a> confirmed last week that 2023 was the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-heat-of-2023-likely-exceeds-that-of-the-last-100000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warmest year on record</a>, with an average global temperature of 1.45C above pre-industrial levels. 



The emerging El Niño climate pattern, which began in mid-2023, is expected to further exacerbate this trend. 



El Niño typically results in hotter, drier conditions in tropical forests and peatlands, impairing their ability to sequester carbon. 



Normally, ecosystems and ocean absorption offset about half of humanity's emissions, but El Niño's presence weakens this natural mitigation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-emissions-reductions-required">Urgent emissions reductions required</h2>



Regions like the Amazon, already grappling with severe drought, heat, and fires, are of particular concern. 



To maintain the 1.5°C limit, UN experts have estimated that emissions need to be cut nearly in half this decade. However, carbon pollution continues to rise.



Monitoring at Mauna Loa, ongoing since 1958, reveals a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annual-CO2-concentration-change_graph_Met-Office_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consistently upward trend in CO2 levels</a>. 



To forecast this year's concentrations, the Met Office utilized emissions data alongside observations and predictions of ocean surface temperatures in the equatorial east Pacific, an El Niño indicator. 



Betts emphasized that even without El Niño's impact, the projected CO2 accumulation would be at the "very, very upper limit of consistency" with the IPCC's 1.5°C scenarios.



In summary, these findings underscore the urgency for "urgent emissions cuts," as emphasized by Betts. While multiple pathways exist to maintain the 1.5°C limit, all require immediate and significant action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 



The current situation highlights a critical juncture in the fight against climate change, where decisive and collective action is paramount.



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Met Office: 2024 CO2 levels will surpass the point of no return

The Met Office in Britain, in its recent announcement, has...

Air conditioning systems can significantly reduce the risk of harm from wildfire smoke, according to a new study led by the <a href="https://www.uts.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Technology Sydney</a> (UTS).&nbsp;



The researchers found that air conditioning units trap particles from wildfire smoke and reduce our exposure to potentially harmful elements like soluble mercury, sulfate, and nitrate. This revelation adds a new dimension to the understanding of air conditioning beyond its primary function of cooling spaces.



Wildfire smoke, as highlighted by the UTS study, is not just an environmental concern but a significant health hazard. It can exacerbate conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart disease, leading to increased hospitalizations and even fatalities.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-wildfires">Increasing wildfires</h2>



The study’s insights are particularly relevant in the wake of increasing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/">wildfires</a> globally, which have been a source of major air pollution.



“The wildfires that raged across Australia during the 2019–2020 ‘Black Summer’ produced an enormous amount of air pollution, with plumes of smoke traveling long distances and cloaking Sydney and surrounding areas,” said study lead author and PhD candidate Raissa Gill.



“We wanted to find out more about what was in the wildfire smoke we were breathing. By using commercial air conditioning filters, we were able to capture and analyze the chemical composition of particles that would otherwise have been inhaled."



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



The team used commercial air conditioning filters to collect and analyze the chemical composition of airborne particles during the wildfires. Filters from UTS Buildings 4 and 7 served as the primary source for sample collection.&nbsp;



The results showed that particulate matter concentrations were 2–3 times higher than normal, with spikes reaching 10.5 times the usual maximum. These levels exceeded national standards on 19% of the days across the four-month sampling period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfire-aerosols-nbsp">Wildfire aerosols&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Professor Martina Doblin noted significant differences in the physical and chemical properties of wildfire aerosols compared to typical urban aerosols.&nbsp;



“Wildfire aerosols contained much smaller, rounder particles than urban aerosols, making them more likely to be inhaled into our lungs and to transfer toxic elements into our blood stream,” said Professor Doblin. 



“These particles also contained more soluble forms of mercury, as well as higher concentrations of sulfate, nitrate and fluoride ions and metals including manganese, cobalt, and antimony. Mercury is quite toxic even in low concentrations and can cause neurological problems and lung damage.”



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



The study not only highlights the immediate risks posed by wildfire smoke but also emphasizes the long-term environmental and health impacts.&nbsp;



“While air quality in Sydney is usually good by world standards, recent evidence has clearly shown that the handful of days that we get every year with high pollution loads from wildfires and dust storms lead to significant disease and death in the community," said study co-author Professor Fraser Torpy. 



"Studies that build an understanding of these high pollution events are critical in helping us determine what is causing these health crises, and will lead towards a better understanding of how we can protect the vulnerable members of the community that suffer from them."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hvac-systems">HVAC systems</h2>



Interestingly, the researchers found that HVAC systems, though not specifically designed for wildfire smoke, played a significant role in reducing indoor exposure to toxic particles. This was evidenced by the lower concentrations of fine particulate matter indoors compared to outdoors during the Canberra wildfires in 2019-2020.&nbsp;



The study suggests that considering higher-rated HVAC filters during fire seasons, and their regular maintenance and replacement, could be vital in reducing exposure to toxic particles.



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



Despite these findings, Gill pointed out that many Australian homes and older buildings, which rely on natural ventilation or have inefficient HVAC systems, remain vulnerable to wildfire smoke.&nbsp;



“Australians face significant obstacles in achieving satisfactory air quality during major wildfire events. Many homes and older buildings rely on natural ventilation or have poor HVAC filtration efficiency and gaps that allow smoke to enter. These systems can also be costly and complicated to manage for effective protection during wildfires,” said Gill.



“Given that severe wildfires are projected to increase with climate change, the role of wildfire-ready infrastructure in maintaining public health, as well as the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, is now more pressing than ever."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123306" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Pollution</a>.



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Air conditioning systems trap harmful particles from wildfire smoke 

Air conditioning systems can significantly reduce the risk of harm...

Sunset,In,The,Sonoran,Desert,Near,Phoenix,,Arizona

Contrary to the long-held Clausius-Clapeyron relationship, which suggests that a warmer atmosphere should contain more water vapor, a new study finds that atmospheric moisture has not increased as expected, particularly over dry and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deserts-as-carbon-sinks-study-reveals-potential-for-greening-arid-regions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">semi-arid regions</a>.



This revelation raises new questions about the future of these regions in the face of climate change.



Recent research spearheaded by the U.S. National Science Foundation's National Center for Atmospheric Research (<a href="https://new.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/national-center-atmospheric-research-ncar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF NCAR</a>) has revealed a puzzling anomaly in our understanding of climate science. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-regions-are-getting-dryer-instead-of-wetter">Dry regions are getting dryer instead of wetter</h2>



The study's results are alarming, as they suggest that dry and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-is-frozen-ground-responding-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">semi-arid regions</a> could be more vulnerable to wildfires and extreme heat than previously projected.



“The impacts could be potentially severe,” said NSF NCAR scientist Isla Simpson, lead author of the study. “This is a global problem, and it’s something that is completely unexpected given our climate model results.”



The study, a collaborative effort involving scientists from various esteemed institutions, including <a href="https://www.ucla.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a>, <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCSB</a>, <a href="https://www.cornell.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>, <a href="https://polarbearsinternational.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Polar Bears International</a>, and <a href="https://www.columbia.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a>, delved into decades of atmospheric data. 



From 1980 to 2020, the team analyzed data from weather stations, weather balloons, and satellites, expecting to find an increase in atmospheric water vapor in line with climate models. However, the results were contrary to expectations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clausius-clapeyron-relationship-challenged">Clausius-Clapeyron relationship challenged</h2>



The Clausius-Clapeyron relationship has been a fundamental principle in climate science, suggesting that with every 1°C rise in temperature, atmospheric moisture should increase by about 7%. 



Surprisingly, the research found that over dry and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoration-of-drylands-essential-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">semi-arid regions</a>, moisture levels have remained constant or even declined, as observed in the Southwestern United States.



“This is contrary to all climate model simulations in which it rises at a rate close to theoretical expectations, even over dry regions,” the authors wrote in the new paper. 



“Given close links between water vapor and wildfire, ecosystem functioning, and temperature extremes, this issue must be resolved in order to provide credible climate projections for dry and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drier-savannas-store-more-soil-carbon-than-previously-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">semi-arid regions</a> of the world.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-regions-will-face-greater-challenges">Dry regions will face greater challenges</h2>



This discrepancy poses a significant challenge to climate models, which have consistently projected rising atmospheric moisture even over dry regions. 



Simpson, who first noticed this trend while working on a <a href="https://www.noaa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a> report about climate change in the southwestern U.S., emphasizes the urgency of resolving this issue to provide credible climate projections.



“We could be facing even higher risks than what’s been projected for dry and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-driving-forces-behind-greening-in-the-sahara-desert/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">semi-arid regions</a> like the Southwest, which has already been affected by unprecedented water shortages and extreme wildfire seasons,” Simpson said.



Interestingly, the study found that humid regions exhibit a different pattern. Here, water vapor increased during wetter months as expected, but the increase was not as pronounced during the driest months. 



This pattern contrasts sharply with the arid and semi-arid regions, further complicating the overall understanding of atmospheric moisture dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-possible-explanations">Exploring possible explanations</h2>



The researchers propose several theories to explain these unexpected findings. One possibility is that the transfer of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-is-the-main-source-of-rain-in-the-atacama-desert/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moisture</a> from the Earth's surface to the atmosphere is not occurring as the models suggest. 



Another theory is that atmospheric circulation patterns may be moving moisture in unexpected ways. Additionally, the land surface itself might be retaining more moisture than anticipated, affecting its availability to the atmosphere.



Despite considering errors in observational data, the team found the discrepancy too consistent across different regions and time frames to be attributed to measurement errors.



Simpson emphasized the urgent need for more research to determine the cause.



“It is a really tricky problem to solve, because we don't have global observations of all the processes that matter to tell us about how water is being transferred from the land surface to the atmosphere," she said.&nbsp; 



"But we absolutely need to figure out what's going wrong because the situation is not what we expected and could have very serious implications for the future.”



In summary, this study opens a new chapter in climate science, challenging existing models and highlighting the complexity of Earth's climate system.



As the researchers continue to explore this surprising anomaly, their work reminds us of the ever-evolving nature of scientific understanding and the critical need for continuous observation and analysis in the face of global climate change.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2302480120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Weather in dry regions isn’t behaving as climate models predict

Contrary to the long-held Clausius-Clapeyron relationship, which suggests that a...

Recent research has unveiled a concerning trend: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-waters-have-an-unexpected-impact-on-fish-size/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> is stealthily undermining the ocean's capacity to sustain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-may-flip-plankton-into-carbon-emitters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plankton</a>, resulting in the rapid decline of fish populations. 



This revelation is crucial as even minor reductions in plankton, the ocean's primary food source, lead to significant decreases in fish stocks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oceans-and-fish-rely-on-phytoplankton">Oceans and fish rely on phytoplankton</h2>



Leading this investigation are <a href="https://www.pml.ac.uk/people/Dr-Angus-Atkinson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Angus Atkinson</a> from the <a href="https://www.pml.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plymouth Marine Laboratory</a> and <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/sbbs/staff/axelrossberg.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Axel Rossberg</a> of <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University</a> of London. 



Their study illuminates a previously unnoticed amplifying effect within the ocean's food chain. They found that a 16-26% decrease in plankton, as predicted in areas like the North Atlantic, could result in a staggering 38-55% drop in the ocean's capacity to support fish.



This phenomenon is largely attributed to the decline in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-plankton-hold-a-long-record-of-ocean-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a> in various latitudes, a result of warmer waters and nutrient insulation from deeper layers. 



Interestingly, while the North Atlantic has seen a decline in plankton over the past 50 years, the impact on fish populations remains uncertain, with models showing varied projections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-research-team-learned">What the research team learned</h2>



Departing from traditional global-scale computer models, the team adopted a unique, data-driven approach. 



By examining the size structure of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-super-swimmers-fueled-the-red-tide-event-of-2020/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plankton</a> and compiling a comprehensive global database, they could better understand how energy is transferred from microscopic phytoplankton to larger fish species.



Contrary to common beliefs, the study reveals that temperature plays a secondary role in disrupting food webs. 



The primary factor is the abundance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/spirals-plankton-indian-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a>, which dictates energy transfer efficiency. 



"Our global analysis sheds light on a hidden vulnerability," says Dr Atkinson. "We were surprised to find temperature didn't directly affect food web efficiency. Instead, we see ecosystems adapting to warming by changing plankton size." 



Warmer oceans reduce the nutrient supply from deeper waters, leading to smaller <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/spiral-plankton-off-australian-coast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a> and less efficient energy flow.



Atkinson continued, "This suggests the main threat comes from reduced nutrient supply, leading to smaller plankton, longer food chains, and inefficient foraging." 



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



While this finding may seem counterintuitive, Dr. Rossberg explains the broader context, saying, "Close to shore or in lakes, excess nutrients from land can cause imbalances like harmful algal blooms." 



"But at the vast scales relevant to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-biodiversity-could-shift-rapidly-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, it's the lack of nutrients from deeper waters that becomes the major bottleneck," Dr. Rossberg expounded.



This research underscores the need to integrate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-threatens-the-global-fish-supply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> considerations into fisheries management. 



Dr. Atkinson points out that global averages can obscure significant declines in fish populations, especially in heavily fished areas.



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



The study underlines the urgency of factoring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-ocean-fishes-will-get-smaller-as-the-ocean-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> into fisheries management. 



"Global averages can mask the true picture," explains Dr Atkinson. "Some of the most significant projected declines are in areas with concentrated fishing activities." 



Recognizing the urgency, Dr. Rossberg emphasizes a multi-faceted approach for sustainable fisheries in the era of climate change. 



"A combination of data on <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/colorful-phytoplankton-blooms-off-argentina/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plankton</a> size structure and advanced computer models is essential for developing effective, climate-smart ocean protection strategies," he asserts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safeguarding-our-oceans-plankton-and-fish-stocks">Safeguarding our oceans, plankton, and fish stocks</h2>



The study highlights a hidden aspect of climate change, calling for a deeper understanding of the ocean's food webs, namely the importance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hydrothermal-vents-phytoplankton-blooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a>. 



By recognizing these hidden amplifiers, we can better protect our oceans and the critical resources they provide, ensuring a sustainable future for marine life.



"We need a combination of data on plankton size structure and sophisticated computer simulation models to design truly 'climate-smart' ocean protection strategies," concludes Dr Rossberg. 



"By understanding the hidden amplifiers within the food web, we can better safeguard the future of our oceans and the vital resources they provide." 



In summary, this eye-opening research by Drs. Atkinson and Rossberg offers a new perspective on the ocean's vulnerability to climate change. 



It paves the way for innovative strategies in marine conservation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the intricate dynamics of oceanic ecosystems in the face of global warming.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-44406-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Our oceans are quickly losing their ability to support fish populations

Recent research has unveiled a concerning trend: climate change is...

A team of researchers, led by Yi Wang from Tulane University, has unveiled critical insights into the warming ocean's role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-has-nearly-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, specifically during the last ice age which concluded over 11,000 years ago. 



Their research highlights the intricate relationship between ocean oxygen levels and atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) during this period.



<a href="https://sse.tulane.edu/yi-wang" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yi Wang</a>, an assistant professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences at <a href="https://tulane.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tulane University</a>, specializes in marine biogeochemistry and paleoceanography. 



Alongside colleagues from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (<a href="https://www.whoi.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHOI</a>), a premier organization in ocean research, Wang embarked on a mission to unravel the mysteries of the ocean's past.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-ocean-oxygen-levels">Global ocean oxygen levels</h2>



The team's focus was on analyzing the deep-sea sediments from the Arabian Sea. By examining isotopes of the metal thallium trapped in these sediments, they could reconstruct the average global ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-news-ocean-oxygen-loss-may-ultimately-reverse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen levels</a> thousands of years ago. 



Wang explained that this approach of studying metal isotopes on glacial-interglacial transitions was unprecedented. 



The results were revelatory: during the last ice age, the global ocean overall lost oxygen compared to the current, warmer interglacial period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-the-southern-ocean-in-global-climate">Role of the Southern Ocean in global climate</h2>



Wang's research reveals a striking correlation between global ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cautionary-tale-todays-ocean-oxygen-levels-may-have-cascading-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen content</a> and atmospheric CO2, stretching from the last ice age to the present day. 



“The research reveals the important role of the Southern Ocean in controlling the global ocean oxygen reservoir and carbon storage,”&nbsp;Wang said.



This correlation underscores the role of the oceans, particularly the Southern Ocean, in regulating atmospheric CO2 levels, a crucial component in understanding climate dynamics.



“This will have implications for understanding how the ocean, especially the Southern Ocean, will dynamically affect the atmospheric CO2 in the future,” she said.



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



The study found that during abrupt <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-hit-a-record-high-this-month-and-theres-more-to-come/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a> in the Northern Hemisphere, the global ocean experienced significant deoxygenation, while periods of abrupt cooling led to an increase in oceanic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-shifts-in-ocean-health-less-oxygen-more-heat-and-acidity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen</a>. These fluctuations were closely tied to processes in the Southern Ocean.



<a href="https://directory.whoi.edu/profile/snielsen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sune Nielsen</a>, an associate scientist at WHOI and co-author of the research, highlighted the study's significance. 



He pointed out that this research presents a first-of-its-kind overview of how global ocean oxygen content evolved as the Earth transitioned from the last glacial period into today's warmer climate. The findings highlight the Southern Ocean's critical role in modulating atmospheric CO2.



"This study is the first to present an average picture of how the oxygen content of the global oceans evolved as Earth transitioned from the last glacial period into the warmer climate of the last 10,000 years,”&nbsp;Sune explained.



Nielsen also stressed the contemporary relevance of these findings. Given the profound impact of anthropogenic climate change, particularly in high-latitude regions, the research underscores the Southern Ocean's outsized influence on atmospheric CO2 levels.



In summary, this study enhances our understanding of the oceans' role in past climate change, while providing vital insights into how oceanic processes might influence future global warming. 



As Wang succinctly put it, understanding the dynamic relationship between the ocean, particularly the Southern Ocean, and atmospheric CO2 is key to predicting how the ocean's carbon cycles will respond to ongoing climate change. 



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



The ocean, covering more than 70% of the Earth's surface, plays a pivotal role in sustaining life both within its depths and on land. 



As discussed above, a key aspect of this role is ocean oxygenation, a process that maintains the delicate balance of oxygen levels in marine environments. 



At the heart of ocean oxygenation lies the process of oxygen dissolving from the atmosphere into the surface waters of the ocean. 



Winds and waves facilitate this exchange, ensuring a continual supply of oxygen to the upper layers of the ocean. 



Moreover, photosynthesis by marine plants and phytoplankton contributes significantly to oxygen levels, particularly in sunlit surface waters.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-ocean-oxygen-supply">Deep ocean oxygen supply</h3>



The deep ocean receives oxygen through a remarkable process called thermohaline circulation. This global conveyor belt moves oxygen-rich surface waters to the depths, and brings nutrient-rich water to the surface. 



As surface waters cool at the poles, they become denser and sink, carrying oxygen to the deep ocean. This circulation is critical for sustaining life in the deep sea, where sunlight cannot penetrate.



Oxygen is vital for the survival of most marine organisms. Fish, marine mammals, and various invertebrates rely on dissolved oxygen for respiration. 



Healthy oxygen levels support rich biodiversity, from coral reefs to deep-sea ecosystems. 



Moreover, oxygenation plays a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter, preventing the buildup of harmful substances.



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



Despite its critical importance, ocean oxygenation faces significant threats, primarily due to human activities. 



Climate change, leading to ocean warming, reduces the solubility of oxygen in seawater. Additionally, increased nutrient runoff from agriculture leads to eutrophication, causing harmful algal blooms that deplete oxygen levels and create dead zones.



In summary, ocean oxygenation is an essential yet often overlooked component of our planet's health. It supports a diverse array of marine life, contributes to global climate regulation, and is integral to the ocean's overall productivity. 



Protecting and preserving this vital process requires concerted global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, manage nutrient runoff, and understand the intricate dynamics of our oceans. 



Only through such actions can we ensure the continued vitality of our marine ecosystems for generations to come.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adk2506" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Clues from the last ice age help predict oceans’ response to continued warming

A team of researchers, led by Yi Wang from Tulane...

Charming,Mountain,Landscape,With,Mountain,Goat,In,The,French,Alps

Alpine glaciers are set to lose at least a third of their volume by 2050, regardless of any immediate halt in global warming, according to scientists from the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a> and international collaborators. 



This startling projection about the future of Alpine glaciers is the result of advanced computer modeling and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-intelligence-identifies-new-anti-aging-compounds/">artificial intelligence</a>. 



The team developed a computer model that uses machine-learning algorithms and climate data. The model predicts a minimum reduction of 34% in the ice volume of the European Alps by 2050. 



This disturbing prediction holds true for Alpine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> even under the most optimistic scenario where global warming ceases instantly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-discovery-about-alpine-glaciers">Alarming discovery about Alpine glaciers</h2>



Modeling glaciers is highly challenging over the next few decades, because creating models correctly is a big issue due to the amount of variables and uncertainty involved.



"This is unfortunate, because we really want to know what is going to happen on that timescale, as it will directly affect our lives, homes and jobs," explain the authors. 



"We present a new modeling approach, taking advantage of new data and machine-learning methods, that allows us to set our model up much more effectively."



The study focused on how much ice will be lost in the European Alps between now and 2050, even if the climate does not change further.



The team discovered that at least one-third of the ice will be lost, come what may. Even the largest glacier fronts will retreat by several kilometers.



The projections are based on the premise that the inertia in the climate-glacier system would continue to affect the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-pose-great-threat-to-biodiversity-in-mountain-ranges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> despite a halt in warming. 



A more dire scenario unfolds when considering the current trajectory of climate change. 



Without significant intervention, almost half (46%) of the Alps' ice volume is projected to vanish by 2050, following the melting trend observed over the last two decades. 



The situation appears even more alarming when looking at data from just the past ten years, which suggests a potential loss of up to 65% of the ice volume.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-short-term-impacts">New perspective on short-term impacts</h2>



The study is distinct from traditional models in its focus on the near future, specifically the year 2050. By concentrating on this shorter timeframe, the research brings the consequences of climate change into a more immediate perspective.



These findings raise some very difficult questions about the world our children will inherit and the potential impacts on future events, such as the 2038 Winter Olympics in Switzerland.



The implications of such significant ice loss are profound, affecting not just the landscape but also water reserves, infrastructure, and the population.&nbsp;



Samuel Cook, a researcher at UNIL and the first author of the study, emphasized the urgency of the situation. 



"The data used to build the scenarios stop in 2022, a year that was followed by an exceptionally hot summer. It is therefore likely that the situation will be even worse than the one we present," said Cook. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-artificial-intelligence-nbsp">The role of artificial intelligence&nbsp;</h2>



The use of artificial intelligence in this study marks a significant advancement in climate modeling. 



The deep-learning methods allowed the model to assimilate physical concepts and interpret real climate and glaciological data more effectively. 



This innovative approach enables more accurate predictions and a clearer understanding of the impending challenges posed by climate change.



"Machine learning is revolutionizing the integration of complex data into our models," noted study co-author Professor Guillaume Jouvet. 



"This essential step, previously notoriously complicated and computationally expensive, is now becoming more accurate and efficient."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-alps">More about the Alps</h2>



As discussed above, The Alps, Europe's great mountain range, extend across eight countries, creating a natural barrier and a stunning landscape recognized worldwide. 



Within this range, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-previously-stable-glaciers-are-now-rapidly-disappearing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> form a key component, their icy expanse offering both beauty and vital ecological functions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alpine-glaciers-in-europe">Alpine glaciers in Europe</h3>



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-pandemic-reduced-the-melting-rate-of-himalayan-glaciers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> originate from layers of snow that accumulate over time, compacting into dense, moving ice. They shape the Alps' geography, carving deep valleys and sharp peaks, a process that has been ongoing for millennia. 



The resulting landscape is not only a magnet for tourists and adventure seekers but also a testament to nature's sculpting prowess.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peru-has-lost-over-half-of-its-glaciers-in-six-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> of the Alps serve as crucial water reservoirs for Europe. They store precipitation in the form of ice and release it slowly, feeding rivers and lakes. 



This meltwater is indispensable for agriculture, hydroelectric power, and as a source of drinking water for millions of people living in and around the Alpine region.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alpine-glaciers-as-climate-change-indicators">Alpine glaciers as climate change indicators</h3>



Glaciers in the Alps are key indicators of climate change. As temperatures rise, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/himalayan-glaciers-retreating-threat-is-much-worse-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> are receding at an alarming rate, providing visible evidence of the planet's warming. 



This retreat affects not just the scenic beauty of the Alps but also has far-reaching impacts on water availability, biodiversity, and the region's ecology.



The cultural significance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/himalayan-glaciers-are-cooling-the-air-around-them-to-survive-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> is profound. For centuries, they have featured in the folklore, art, and literature of the Alpine countries, shaping the cultural identity of the region. 



They also play a major role in the local economy, attracting skiers, hikers, and mountaineers, contributing significantly to the tourism industry.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-conservation-efforts">Implications and conservation efforts</h3>



Unfortunately, as discussed in depth above, the future of these magnificent glaciers is under threat. Climate change poses the biggest challenge, with predictions suggesting that many of the glaciers could disappear by the year 2050. 



This loss would drastically alter the Alpine landscape and disrupt the delicate environmental balance.



In response, there are various initiatives and scientific studies aimed at understanding and mitigating the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/half-of-the-worlds-glaciers-will-melt-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier retreat</a>. 



Conservation efforts, sustainable tourism practices, and international cooperation are essential to preserve these natural wonders.



In summary, the Alps and their glaciers are integral to the environmental health, cultural heritage, and economic vitality of the region. 



Preserving them is critical for maintaining the unique beauty and biodiversity of the Alps and ensuring a sustainable future for the generations to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2023GL105029" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Mountain glaciers will lose 50% of their volume by 2050 no matter what humans do

Alpine glaciers are set to lose at least a third...

Fishing,Boat,On,The,North,Sea,Fishes,With,A,Trawl

In an alarming study released today, scientists have focused on a previously overlooked factor in climate change: bottom trawling. 



This fishing practice, which involves <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dragging hefty nets</a> across the ocean floor, is not just destructive to marine life and habitats, but also a significant contributor to atmospheric carbon emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bottom-trawling-and-ocean-floor-carbon">Bottom trawling and ocean floor carbon</h2>



The study, conducted by a global team from institutions including <a href="https://www.usu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utah State University</a>, NASA's <a href="https://www.giss.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Institute</a> for Space Studies, and <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.org/society/our-programs/pristine-seas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Geographic Pristine Seas</a>, reveals a startling fact.



55%-60% of the carbon dioxide generated by bottom trawling underwater eventually reaches the atmosphere within nine years. 



This revelation is critical as the world grapples with reducing emissions from well-known sources like fossil fuels and deforestation.



“We have long known that dragging heavy fishing nets -- some as large as ten 747 jets -- across the ocean floor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-mountain-range-hawaii/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">destroys sea life</a> and habitats,” said Dr. Trisha Atwood of Utah State University and National Geographic Pristine Seas.&nbsp;



“Only recently, we have discovered that bottom trawling also unleashes plumes of carbon, which otherwise would be safely stored for millennia in the ocean floor," said Atwood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-extent-of-bottom-trawling-emissions">Surprising extent of bottom trawling emissions</h2>



The scale of carbon emissions from bottom trawling is alarming. Annually, it doubles the emissions from the global fishing fleet's fuel combustion, comprising about <a href="https://www.fao.org/3/cc0461en/online/sofia/2022/fishing-fleet.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">4 million vessels</a>. 



Atwood explains, "Our study is the very first to show that over half the carbon released by bottom trawling eventually escapes into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide over the span of about ten years, contributing to global warming. Much like destroying forests, scraping up the seafloor causes irreparable harm to the climate, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-havens-shipwreck-sites-provide-a-sanctuary-for-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">society and wildlife</a>."



The study titled "Atmospheric CO2 emissions and ocean acidification from bottom-trawling," employed data and advanced models to track bottom trawling activities globally from 1996 to 2020. 



The <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Santa Barbara</a>, <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a>, <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a> also contributed to this important research.



The findings are a significant leap from <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03371-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previous research</a>, indicating that the carbon dioxide released into the ocean from this practice is comparable to the annual emissions of most countries and similar to those from global aviation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-high-risk-areas">Identifying high risk areas</h2>



Particularly affected regions include the East China Sea, Baltic and North Seas, and the Greenland Sea. There's also concern about Southeast Asia, the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, parts of Europe, and the Gulf of Mexico. 



However, data limitations in these areas hinder a comprehensive understanding of the full impact.



“Right now, countries don’t account for bottom trawling’s significant carbon emissions in their climate action plans,” said Dr. Enric Sala, National Explorer in Residence and Executive Director of Pristine Seas. 



“Our research makes it clear that tackling these and other ocean emissions is critical to slowing the warming of the planet, in addition to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activities-are-ravaging-adriatic-mollusk-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restoring marine life</a>," Sala continued. 



"The good news is that reducing bottom trawling carbon emissions will deliver immediate benefits. The bad news is, delaying action ensures that emissions from trawling will continue seeping into the atmosphere a decade from now.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-calls-for-immediate-action">Implications and calls for immediate action</h2>



Interestingly, the study also examines the fate of the carbon that remains in ocean waters post-trawling. Findings suggest that 40%-45% of this carbon stays in the water, exacerbating local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/preparing-for-ocean-acidification-a-silent-killer-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean acidification</a> and harming plant and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dolphin-bycatch-from-fishing-activities-is-unsustainable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal life</a>.



“There are more issues with bottom trawling than just the impacts from carbon -- biodiversity and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/billions-of-snow-crabs-vanished-due-to-rising-ocean-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainability</a> for instance,” said Gavin A. Schmidt, the Director of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies. 



“But this ‘marine deforestation’ is large enough to be noted and assessed. Hopefully, this can lead to policy efforts that can try to maximize benefits across all of the impacts.”



In summary, this disturbing study highlights the hidden impact of bottom trawling on climate change and calls for immediate policy action to mitigate its effects. 



By addressing this overlooked issue, there is potential for significant strides in both protecting our oceans and combating global warming.



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



As discussed above, bottom trawling involves dragging heavy nets across the seafloor, indiscriminately capturing everything in their path and causing untold damage.



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



Fishermen use bottom trawls to catch a variety of sea creatures. These large nets, weighted down with heavy gear, scrape along the ocean floor, ensnaring fish, plants, and other marine life. 



The method is efficient for mass harvesting but lacks discrimination, capturing both the targeted species and a large amount of bycatch - unwanted sea life.



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



The environmental impact of bottom trawling is profound. It destroys complex seabed habitats, home to a myriad of creatures, and disrupts ecological balance. 



Coral reefs, which take centuries to form, can be decimated in a matter of minutes. This destruction leads to a loss of biodiversity, with long-term consequences for marine ecosystems and the fisheries that depend on them.



In addition, recent studies, like the one discussed previously in this article, have brought to light an alarming aspect of bottom trawling: its contribution to carbon emissions. 



Disturbing the seabed releases carbon stored in ocean floor sediments, adding significantly to atmospheric CO2 levels. This aspect of bottom trawling contributes to climate change, a threat that extends far beyond the oceans.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-call-for-change">Urgent call for change</h3>



The global community is becoming increasingly aware of the need to address the issue of bottom trawling. 



Conservationists and scientists are calling for stricter regulations, protected marine areas where trawling is banned, and the adoption of more sustainable fishing practices. 



The goal is to balance the needs of the fishing industry with the urgent need to protect and preserve our oceanic environments.



In summary, bottom trawling stands as a critical environmental challenge. It depletes fish stocks and destroys marine habitats while also contributing to the broader issue of climate change by emitting an enormous amount of carbon into the atmosphere.



The time for action is now, to ensure the health and sustainability of our oceans for future generations.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2023.1125137/full">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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Common fishing method of bottom trawling harms both the ocean and the climate

In an alarming study released today, scientists have focused on...

In the tranquil surroundings of southern Minnesota, a remarkable transformation is unfolding. Amidst photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays on rehabilitated farmland, a once-dormant ecosystem is buzzing with life. This scene, reminiscent of a nature preserve, is the unexpected result of an innovative approach to solar energy development.



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.anl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory</a> and National Renewable Energy Laboratory embarked on a mission to explore the ecological impact of PV solar energy sites, especially those restored with native grasses and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildflowers-are-self-fertilizing-to-deal-with-a-lack-of-pollinators/">wildflowers</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-restoration-nbsp">Habitat restoration&nbsp;</h2>



The focus of the five-year field study was two solar sites in southern Minnesota, operated by Enel Green Power North America, both established on retired agricultural land.



The findings were striking: in less than five years, insect abundance at these sites had tripled. This outcome underscores a critical message, as noted by Lee Walston, a landscape ecologist and environmental scientist.



“This research highlights the relatively rapid insect community responses to habitat restoration at solar energy sites. It demonstrates that, if properly sited, habitat-friendly solar energy can be a feasible way to safeguard insect populations and can improve the pollination services in adjacent agricultural fields,” said Walston.&nbsp;



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



The global decline in insect biodiversity, driven by habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change, presents a grim picture. However, the intersection of insect habitat restoration and renewable energy developments, like PV solar energy, offers new hope. 



With the DOE’s <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-futures-study">Solar Futures Study</a> indicating a need for approximately 10 million acres of land for solar development by 2050, targeting disturbed lands, such as former agricultural fields, becomes a strategic and ecologically sound choice.



Agrivoltaics, the co-location of solar energy production and agricultural practices, emerges as a promising solution. By integrating habitat enhancement for pollinators and wildlife, these sites can serve dual purposes, addressing both energy and biodiversity challenges. Despite its potential, this approach lacked substantial field data to back its efficacy, until now.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-biodiversity">Beyond biodiversity</h2>



The study, led by Heidi Hartmann and her team, involved planting native grasses and flowering plants at the two solar sites in early 2018. Over four years, they conducted 358 surveys, tracking the growth of plants and the response of insect communities.&nbsp;



“The effort to obtain these data was considerable, returning to each site four times per summer to record pollinator counts,” said Hartmann. ​“Over time we saw the numbers and types of flowering plants increase as the habitat matured. Measuring the corresponding positive impact for pollinators was very gratifying.”



An added advantage of these solar-pollinator habitats was observed in the adjacent crop fields. Pollinators from the solar sites were found visiting soybean flowers, enhancing pollination services. This finding is particularly significant, considering the high percentage of future solar developments expected on agricultural lands.



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



The implications of habitat-friendly solar energy are twofold. First, these sites can significantly contribute to biodiversity conservation. Second, they offer a solution to land-use conflicts, particularly in agricultural settings. By enhancing pollination services, these habitats could make prime farmland more productive.



However, the journey doesn’t end here. Further research is needed to evaluate the applicability of habitat-friendly solar across different regions and to meet varied ecological objectives, such as conserving specific insect or wildlife species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/1748-9326/ad0f72" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research</a>.



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Insects thrive in restored habitats near solar energy facilities

In the tranquil surroundings of southern Minnesota, a remarkable transformation...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

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