<p>Wildfires in the western U.S. have become a growing crisis. They’re lasting longer, burning hotter, and spreading into areas that rarely burned in the past. </p>



<p>But another danger is rising, beyond heatwaves and droughts. Lightning - sudden, fierce, and incredibly powerful - is becoming one of the biggest wildfire risks.</p>



<p>In the coming decades, scientists warn that lightning will become an increasingly dominant spark for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-making-wildfire-smoke-more-deadly/">wildfires</a>, adding to the already mounting risks across the West.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-is-fueling-more-wildfires">Lightning is fueling more wildfires</h2>



<p>Wildfires need a few things to get going: dry fuel, hot temperatures, low humidity, and a spark. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lightning-is-changing-the-atmosphere-in-surprising-ways/">Lightning</a> is one of the most powerful natural igniters.</p>



<p>In the western U.S., lightning already causes more than two-thirds of the area burned by wildfires. And now, new research shows that number is going to rise sharply due to climate change. </p>



<p>Warmer air holds more moisture, which means more unstable weather patterns. Those patterns, in turn, set the stage for more lightning.</p>



<p>A recent study has revealed that virtually all of the western U.S. - 98 percent of the region - will have more days with a greater likelihood of lightning-ignited wildfires starting as early as the 2030s. </p>



<p>For regions already accustomed to such fires, such as Oregon, Idaho, and Montana, the risk is even greater. As early as 2060, those states may have as many as 12 additional lightning-filled days per summer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-model-to-forecast-lightning">A model to forecast lightning</h2>



<p>Traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-models-underestimate-sea-ice-melt-and-global-warming/">climate models</a> don’t really track lightning. That’s why a team of researchers led by Dmitri Kalashnikov built their own system to fill in the gaps.</p>



<p>“The first step was to project lightning,” said Kalashnikov, a research scientist at the <a href="https://www.ucmerced.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Merced</a>. “The typical climate models don’t directly simulate lightning. It’s too small a process.”</p>



<p>The researchers applied machine learning to forecast where lightning would hit based on variables that we can quantify - such as temperature, humidity, and the level of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moisture-in-the-atmosphere-causes-extreme-weather-to-last-longer/">moisture in the air</a>. </p>



<p>The team merged those results with the Fire Weather Index (FWI), a mechanism that was developed back in 1968 to monitor how probable wildfire initiation and spread is from local weather.</p>



<p>The result is a forecast model tailored to the western U.S., designed to project conditions from 2030 to 2060 - decades earlier than most studies, which typically look only to the end of the century.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-lightning-in-the-northwest">More lightning in the Northwest</h2>



<p>The northwestern states of Idaho, Oregon, and Montana are projected to experience the greatest growth in lightning days. But strangely, they may not experience the most rapid expansion in wildfires. </p>



<p>Although lightning will grow, the conditions favoring fires (such as extreme heat or dryness) are not expected to worsen as quickly in the Northwest compared to other regions.</p>



<p>That doesn’t mean northwestern states are off the hook. Cloud-to-ground lightning, the kind that hits trees or grass directly, is still expected to rise significantly in those areas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-less-lightning-greater-wildfire-risk">Less lightning, greater wildfire risk</h2>



<p>In contrast, the Southwest - including Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, and New Mexico - won’t see as much of a jump in lightning strikes. But the fire risk will still climb. </p>



<p>This is because even a small spark becomes a big threat when the land is extra dry, the heat is intense, and there’s little rain to cool things off.</p>



<p>The researchers found that these southern states are likely to experience the biggest increases in wildfires caused by lightning, despite the smaller bump in lightning activity. That’s because climate change is pushing up the number of fire-prone days overall.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-and-wet-lightning">Dry and wet lightning</h2>



<p>Kalashnikov said the next steps could involve separating the kinds of lightning events. “You can’t help but wonder what the future will look like, especially if you dig in and you realize that there’s actually a lot that we don’t understand,” he said.</p>



<p>One key factor will be figuring out how to distinguish between "dry lightning" and "wet lightning." Dry lightning happens without much rain, making it a fire hazard. </p>



<p>Wet lightning brings <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-rainfall-poses-extreme-risks-in-the-western-us/">heavy rain</a>, which can reduce fire risk but increase flood danger. Understanding that difference could help emergency services respond more precisely to fire threats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfire-risks-are-rising-fast">Wildfire risks are rising fast</h2>



<p>As climate patterns shift, the West isn’t just getting warmer and drier - it’s getting stormier in a dangerous way. Lightning is expected to spark more fires, and fires are expected to find more dry fuel waiting. It’s a feedback loop that could reshape fire seasons in the U.S.</p>



<p>This isn’t about something that might happen a hundred years from now. The changes are coming within the next few decades - some may already be happening. </p>



<p>And for the people living in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/double-hazard-wildfire-zones-identified-in-the-american-west/">high-risk areas</a>, that means more heat, more smoke, and a greater need for preparation.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2025EF006108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's Future</a></em>.</p>



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Lightning will ignite even more wildfires as the climate heats up

Wildfires in the western U.S. have become a growing crisis. They’re lasting longer, burning hotter, and spreading into areas that rarely burned in the past. But another danger is rising, beyond heatwaves and droughts. Lightning - sudden, fierce, and incredibly powerful - is becoming one of the biggest wildfire risks. In the coming decades, scientists warn that lightning will become an increasingly dominant spark for wildfires, adding to the already mounting risks across the West. Lightning is fueling more wildfires Wildfires need a few things to get...

<p>A team of marine biologists led by the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en">University of Gothenburg</a> and the <a href="https://www.kth.se/en">KTH Royal Institute of Technology</a> has recently predicted that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/preparing-for-ocean-acidification-a-silent-killer-of-climate-change/">ocean acidification</a> will nearly triple by the end of this century.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This significant environmental shift could affect vital marine life such as fleshy seaweeds, which play a crucial role in promoting biodiversity across over a third of the world’s coastlines.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fate-of-seaweeds">Fate of seaweeds</h2>



<p>The experts investigated the potential fate of seaweeds in oceans that are undergoing rapid acidification. They exposed a common fleshy seaweed species to the acidification levels anticipated by 2100.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The analyses revealed that this increased acidification altered the seaweed’s chemical balance, weakened its structure and tissues, and decreased its likelihood of survival.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-changes">Unprecedented changes</h2>



<p>“Climate change is resulting in unprecedented changes in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems through the emission of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide,” the authors wrote. “Almost a third of that CO2 is taken up by the ocean, which has profound effects on seaweeds.”</p>



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



<p>To simulate the conditions of future ocean acidification, the researchers cultivated <em>Fucus vesiculosus</em>, a common brown fleshy algae, in water enriched with dissolved CO2 for a span of 90 days.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The concentration of carbon dioxide was adjusted to mirror the levels of acidification projected for the year 2100, which is almost threefold the current levels of acidification in the oceans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structural-changes-nbsp">Structural changes&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Throughout the experiment, both the visible growth and microscopic structural changes of the seaweed were closely observed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers measured how well the seaweed performed photosynthesis, analyzed its chemical composition, evaluated its thallus strength, and monitored its response to mechanical stress by mimicking waves to assess its vulnerability to damage or detachment in the ocean (a metric called “drag”).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixed-results">Mixed results</h2>



<p>Comparison of these findings with data from <em>F. vesiculosus</em> grown in non-acidified water led to mixed results.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The seaweed cultivated in acidified water surprisingly demonstrated greater growth, more efficient photosynthesis, and no significant rise in drag.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, such seaweed had reduced thallus strength, less compact tissues, a more porous overall structure, and diminished levels of calcium and magnesium - essential elements contributing to the strength and flexibility of a plant’s structure.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As a result, seaweeds in acidified water seemed to be more susceptible to breakage and had a higher mortality rate.</p>



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



<p>“Negative effects of ocean acidification on the tissue structure and breaking strength of seaweeds like <em>F. vesiculosus</em> could have drastic effects on coastal ecosystems,” the scientists explained.</p>



<p>“Such changes could lead to an overall decrease in seaweed coverage, with corresponding negative effects on organisms that depend on these habitats for food and shelter.”</p>



<p>Further studies are needed to explore whether the repercussions of ocean acidification are consistent across all fleshy seaweed species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“If this proves to be a general mechanism affecting fleshy seaweeds, the expectation is that ocean acidification will have critical structuring effects on rocky-shore ecosystems given how widely distributed and fundamental brown seaweeds are across one-third of the coastlines of the world,” the authors concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.07.056"><em>Current Biology</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Ocean acidification endangers ecologically important seaweed

A team of marine biologists led by the University of...

<p>The icy terrains of Antarctica are now experiencing an expanding population of plants, experiencing swift growth due to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-in-distress-the-escalating-consequences-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">altering climate</a>. A team of Italy-based researchers has discovered a surge in plant growth on the continent where there is normally ice and snow.</p>



<p>Scientists meticulously studied the evolution of Antarctica’s two indigenous plant species on various sites on Signy Island, located in the South Orkney Islands, spanning from 2009 to 2019. This investigation is foundational in understanding the ecological alterations occurring in this once predominantly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-levels-in-antarctica-have-reached-an-unprecedented-low/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frozen landscape</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stunning-plant-growth-patterns-in-antarctica">Stunning plant growth patterns in Antarctica</h2>



<p>The focal point of this research was the Antarctic hair grass and Antarctic Pearlwort, the two native flowering plant species inhabiting Antarctica. Results revealed a densification in the plant population at the studied sites, demonstrating an accelerated growth rate corresponding with the rising global temperatures over the decades.</p>



<p>The research compared data across the past 50 years, revealing that Antarctic Pearlwort exhibited significant growth, quintupling in the scrutinized period, whereas the Antarctic hair grass maintained consistent growth levels between 1950-2009 and 2009-2019.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underlying-causes-and-concerns">Underlying causes and concerns</h2>



<p>Climate change emerges as the principal catalyst for this accelerated plant growth. However, the researchers propose that a declining seal population might also be contributing to the surge in plant growth. </p>



<p>The elevating temperatures coupled with changing ecosystems pose considerable risks to the region’s biodiversity, with the introduction of invasive species threatening the existence of native plants, altering the ecological balance.</p>



<p>Experts express immense concern regarding these alterations, forewarning the swift changes in Antarctica’s biodiversity and landscapes. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Nicoletta-Cannone" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicoletta Cannone</a>, the principal author of the study, emphasized the potential widespread implications of the observed phenomena, stating, "If we extrapolate what we observed on Signy Island to other sites in Antarctica, a similar process can also occur. This means that the Antarctic landscape and biodiversity could change rapidly."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-biodiversity-shift">Potential biodiversity shift</h2>



<p>The extensive growth and densification of plants in Antarctica spotlight the tangible impacts of global warming on delicate ecosystems. If this trend persists, invasive species could overshadow indigenous plants, reshaping the biodiversity and landscape of the continent. </p>



<p>The transformations observed on Signy Island could potentially replicate across other locations in Antarctica, heralding substantial ecological shifts.</p>



<p>This pivotal study unravels the alarming pace at which climate change is modifying the ecosystems of Antarctica. The swift growth of native plants, such as Antarctic hair grass and Antarctic Pearlwort, potentially due to increasing temperatures and declining seal populations, is reshaping the ecological and biological fabric of the region. </p>



<p>The possible invasion of non-native species and the subsequent alterations in biodiversity represent an urgent call to address global warming and its multifaceted impacts on diverse ecosystems across the globe. The evidence emerging from Antarctica is a stark reminder of the swift and irreversible changes that climate anomalies can bring about in our world’s varied and delicate ecological landscapes.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/pdfExtended/S0960-9822(22)00136-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.</p>



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Antarctica is experiencing rapid plant growth, concerning scientists

The icy terrains of Antarctica are now experiencing an expanding...

<p>In an era where the emphasis on creating a nature-friendly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-butts-leak-thousands-of-deadly-toxins-into-the-environment/">environment</a> has never been greater, researchers are warning of the dangers posed by greenwashing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The concept of greenwashing has emerged as a significant barrier to achieving a ‘nature positive’ world, an aspirational vision of halting environmental degradation and protecting biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-positive-nbsp">Nature positive&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to World Economic Forum, nature positive means enhancing the resilience of our planet and societies to halt and reverse nature loss.</p>



<p>It represents an intent to go a step beyond the present measures, which largely orbit around damage control.</p>



<p>"Nature positive is a hot topic in conservation. Described as the biodiversity version of a ‘net zero’ climate goal, the desired outcome is an improvement in the state of nature and not merely the mitigation of impacts," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>The team was led by Professor Martine Maron from <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au/">The University of Queensland</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leaders-pledge-for-nature">Leaders’ Pledge for Nature</h2>



<p>Professor Maron stressed the indispensability of a nature positive approach, especially in the face of the ongoing mass extinction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Countries around the world are starting to back the concept – more than 90 world leaders have signed on to the Leaders’ Pledge for Nature calling for a nature positive future by 2030," said Professor Maron.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“And 11 of the global Fortune 100 companies already aspire to contribute to nature positive."</p>



<p>“This is fantastic news, but these laudable ambitions mustn’t be sidelined by a well-known enemy of the environmental movement: greenwash.”</p>



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



<p>Greenwashing is the tactic employed by organizations to project an inflated image of their environmental commitments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It involves dishing out misleading or deceptive information to appear more environmentally responsible than one truly is.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misleading-information-nbsp">Misleading information&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Professor E.J. Milner-Gulland from the University of Oxford said the team hopes that the public does not get the proverbial wool pulled over their eyes.</p>



<p>“Our message to the public is that it’s incredibly important to scrutinize these claims,” said Professor Milner-Gulland.</p>



<p>“As with the term ‘net zero,' you’ll soon start to see the businesses you buy from, and the governments you vote for, making claims that they are being, doing, or contributing to nature positive."</p>



<p>“But to be clear, such an achievement is only possible if we fundamentally change how we run our society and economy."</p>



<p>“What we really need are standards, so that it’s clear what constitutes misleading information, and transparency, so that consumers and voters can tell the greenwash from the genuine efforts for change.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-we-still-have-a-long-way-to-go">We still have a long way to go</h2>



<p>Australia is currently framing its national environmental law reforms around the concept of nature positive.</p>



<p>“For these initiatives to truly achieve that goal, they’ll need to be substantial and far-reaching, preventing the accumulation of further impacts, especially on our threatened biodiversity,” said Professor Maron.</p>



<p>“Hundreds of thousands of hectares of habitat are still being cleared in Australia every year, so we still have a long way to go before we can say we’re nature positive.”</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-023-02199-2"><em>Nature Ecology and Evolution</em></a>.</p>



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Greenwashing jeopardizes efforts for a "nature positive" world

In an era where the emphasis on creating a nature-friendly...

<p>In the global fight against climate change, a cutting-edge approach is emerging to specifically target methane, which is responsible for roughly 30 percent of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-endured-rapid-global-warming-300-million-years-ago/">global warming</a> since pre-industrial times</p>



<p>Experts from the <a href="https://www.sron.nl/">Netherlands Institute for Space Research</a> (SRON) have revolutionized methane detection by combining the power of Sentinel satellites and machine learning algorithms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This groundbreaking technology could provide a major boost to efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by identifying super-emitters and other large methane sources.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-methane-matters">Why methane matters</h2>



<p>Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, ranking second only to carbon dioxide in its contribution to global warming.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, its impact is more intense: a ton of methane can retain 30 times more heat than an equal amount of carbon dioxide over a century.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Importantly, the short lifespan of methane - about 10 years - makes it a prime target for rapid climate action.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-super-emitters">Methane super-emitters</h2>



<p>Methane emissions are not evenly distributed. Methane super-emitters, which are typically industrial facilities like oil and gas operations or coal mines, disproportionately contribute to the problem.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These sources often have equipment or infrastructure issues that lead to significant leaks. Identifying super-emitters has been a major challenge.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sentinel-satellites-nbsp">The Sentinel satellites&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Tropomi instrument aboard the Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellite creates a global map of methane concentrations every day, using shortwave infrared bands as unique fingerprints for methane detection.&nbsp;</p>



<p>SRON researchers have developed a new algorithm that uses machine learning to automatically identify methane super-emitters based on the satellite data.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-plumes">Methane plumes</h2>



<p>"Before, we manually identified the largest emitters, but it remains difficult to search through the millions of Tropomi pixels. A methane plume often only covers a few pixels. We now automatically get a list of detections from the machine learning model every day," explained Berend Schuit from SRON.</p>



<p>“We check those manually every week to make sure we are confident about the detections. What remains, dozens of methane plumes every week, we publish online. We communicate persistent leaks to other satellites with higher resolution so they can precisely identify the source.”</p>



<p>“This information is used by the United Nations' International Methane Emissions Observatory to find a solution together with the responsible companies or authorities.”</p>



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



<p>Study co-author Bram Maasakkers said that the dozens of methane plumes that are detected by Tropomi every week present a golden opportunity in the fight against global warming,</p>



<p>“If it’s visible from space, it is serious. For the first time, we now get a good global picture of these super-emitters. In our publication, we describe the 2974 plumes that we found in 2021; 45% originate from oil and gas facilities but we also see plumes from urban areas (35%) and coal mines (20%)," said Maasakkers.</p>



<p>“We detect human-made emissions with a climate impact that is significantly larger than total greenhouse gas emissions of The Netherlands. In many cases, those leaks are easy to fix.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-multi-tiered-approach">A multi-tiered approach</h2>



<p>The Sentinel-5P, Sentinel-2, and Sentinel-3 satellites are used in a tiered approach to methane detection.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While Sentinel-5P offers daily global coverage but lacks spatial resolution, Sentinel-2 can identify exact locations but doesn't offer daily coverage. Sentinel-3 sits at the sweet spot, providing both daily global coverage and remarkable resolution for methane detection.</p>



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



<p>This new approach of using machine learning and a multi-tiered satellite system opens up vast opportunities in the fight against climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Sudhanshu Pandey, lead author and now scientist at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, commented, “Who would have thought we can use three different Sentinel missions in a tiered approach to first spot methane super emitters from space globally with Tropomi on Sentinel-5P, then zooming in with Sentinel-3 and Sentinel-2, we’re able to identify the exact source responsible at facility level. This is the type of information we need to take swift action.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://acp.copernicus.org/articles/23/9071/2023/"><em>Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics</em></a>.</p>



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New methane detection method will expose super-emitters

In the global fight against climate change, a cutting-edge approach...

Hubble’s Crisp New Image of Jupiter and Europa

<p>At a glance, it seems rather perplexing: five months post-launch and the spacecraft named Juice has covered 370 million kilometers, which represents a mere 5% of its journey to Jupiter.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To explain the extended timeline, the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> breaks down the science of flight dynamics and orbital mechanics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-dance-of-planets">Complex dance of planets</h2>



<p>Every celestial body in our universe - planets, moons, stars, or galaxies - orbits another entity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Earth orbits the Sun at a 30 km/s. When a spacecraft is launched from our planet, it inherits this orbital energy, effectively placing it in a similar orbit around the Sun as Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-for-juice-nbsp">Challenges for Juice&nbsp;</h2>



<p>One might assume the most efficient route to Jupiter would be a straight line, but this approach has its challenges.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Not only would it require immense fuel to propel the spacecraft in such a direction, but an even greater fuel reserve would be essential to decelerate and orbit Jupiter upon arrival, lest the spacecraft overshoot its target.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-targets">Moving targets</h2>



<p>Earth and Jupiter, in their eternal celestial journey around the Sun, are constantly changing positions relative to each other.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their distance varies, reaching a maximum of 968 million kilometers and a minimum of just under 600 million.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Given this perpetual motion, aiming a spacecraft directly at Jupiter is not feasible.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Instead, flight engineers must anticipate where Jupiter will be when the spacecraft arrives.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The planets are all moving at different rates in their orbits around the Sun," said ESA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Imagine throwing a ball at a moving target from a moving vehicle. Engineers must calculate the ideal time to make the jump on a circular path from Earth’s orbit to where Jupiter will be when the spacecraft arrives, not where it is when the spacecraft leaves Earth."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flyby-missions">Flyby missions</h2>



<p>Historically, missions like Voyager, Pioneer, and New Horizons have managed to reach Jupiter in under two years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, these missions were mere flybys, using Jupiter as a gravitational slingshot to other destinations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-and-mass">Energy and mass</h2>



<p>To maintain an extended presence around Jupiter, the approach must be slower.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A spacecraft's mass plays a pivotal role here. More mass implies more fuel, which in turn affects the launch complexity. Juice, weighing in at over 6,000 kg, is one of the heaviest interplanetary probes to date.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even with the immense power of the Ariane 5 rocket, a direct two-year trajectory to Jupiter wasn't viable.</p>



<p>The solution lies in gravity-assist or flyby maneuvers. These maneuvers utilize the gravitational pull of celestial bodies to boost the spacecraft's speed, a cosmic dance that trades energy between the spacecraft and planets.</p>



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



<p>Juice's itinerary includes a series of flybys involving Earth, the Moon, and Venus. These maneuvers will position it for its grand rendezvous with the Jovian system in July 2031.</p>



<p>The journey, filled with an unprecedented 35 flybys of Jupiter's moons, will end with Juice entering the orbit of Ganymede, marking a historic first for humankind.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precise-maneuvers-nbsp">Precise maneuvers&nbsp;</h2>



<p>But such intricate space choreography is not without challenges. Every maneuver must be precise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even slight miscalculations could lead to the probe being lost in space or requiring extensive fuel to correct its course.</p>



<p>The overarching goal of Juice's mission is to study the potentially life-harboring oceans beneath the icy surfaces of Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Through this grand exploration, insights into the formation of planets and moons across the universe might be gleaned.</p>



<p>For updates, you can follow the mission's progress on Twitter via @ESAJuiceBar.</p>



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



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Why is our trip to Jupiter taking so long?

At a glance, it seems rather perplexing: five months post-launch...

<p>World Gorilla Day marks its 7th anniversary today, pushing for greater awareness and investment in gorilla conservation.</p>



<p>Since its inauguration in 2017, World Gorilla Day has served as a focal point for people worldwide to celebrate these magnificent creatures and commit to their protection. </p>



<p>While it is clear that collective action and awareness-raising have been making a difference, much more work remains to be done.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-legacy-of-dian-fossey">The legacy of Dian Fossey</h2>



<p>The celebration of World Gorilla Day coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Karisoke Research Center, founded by the late primatologist Dian Fossey.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As the longest-running gorilla field study site, Karisoke continues to focus on the research, conservation, and protection of gorillas in Africa. However, despite the dedication of numerous organizations and individuals, there is a need for increased investment and public awareness to bolster the survival chances for gorillas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-state-of-mountain-gorillas">Critical state of mountain gorillas</h2>



<p>The mountain gorilla, living in high-altitude mountain and bamboo forests, remains critically endangered. With just around 880 of them left in the wild, their habitat is constantly threatened by human activities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For example, mining for coltan, a mineral used in small electronic devices, has led to significant habitat destruction in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, displacing or even killing gorillas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recycle-old-cell-phones">Recycle old cell phones</h2>



<p>The annual “Gorillas on the Line…Answer the Call” campaign focuses on recycling small electronic devices to decrease the demand for coltan and preserve gorilla habitats.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Recycling old cell phones and other devices helps reduce the negative impact of coltan mining on gorilla habitats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-help-support-virunga-national-park">Help support Virunga National Park</h2>



<p>Protecting gorillas in conflict zones, particularly in Virunga National Park, is a monumental task that requires the tireless efforts of over 770 Rangers. Their unyielding spirit and determination are a testament to the significance of conserving this endangered species.</p>



<p>Over the past year, the security situation at Virunga National Park has become extremely dangerous, with rebel groups controlling the Park’s southern sector – an area which spans the endangered mountain gorilla habitat and Park headquarters. </p>



<p>"Tragically, ten of our brave Rangers have lost their lives in unprovoked attacks in 2023 alone," the park said on its <a href="https://virunga.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a>. "With the support of local communities, dedication of our Rangers and adoption of new technologies, we are persisting in our efforts to preserve the Park’s rich biodiversity."</p>



<p><a href="https://virunga.org/support-us/donate/#:~:text=Over%20the%20past%20year%2C%20the,unprovoked%20attacks%20in%202023%20alone." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Your donation</a> will help us stand strong in the midst of these challenging circumstance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adopt-a-gorilla">Adopt a gorilla</h2>



<p>World Wildlife Fund (WWF) provides us with the opportunity to symbolically <a href="https://gifts.worldwildlife.org/gift-center/gifts/Species-Adoptions/Gorilla.aspx?sc=AWY2204OQ19293A01785RX&amp;gad=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwvL-oBhCxARIsAHkOiu1Re3bdC-CalTNUixRz80rUioRz6FHZwKsfYJTd5pgGOe5egKnUikMaAgL6EALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adopt a gorilla</a> to support their conservation efforts. </p>



<p>"For more than 60 years, WWF has been protecting the future of nature. WWF works in nearly 100 countries and is supported by 1.3 million members in the United States and more than 5 million members globally," the organization says on its website.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Your donation provides general support and makes you a member. 83% of spending is directed to worldwide conservation activities."</p>



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



<p>Gorillas are the largest of the great apes and are divided mainly into two species: the Eastern gorilla and the Western gorilla. Each of these species has two subspecies.&nbsp;</p>



<ul>
<li>Eastern gorilla: The subspecies are the Mountain gorilla and the Eastern Lowland gorilla.&nbsp;</li>



<li>Western gorilla: The subspecies are the Western Lowland gorilla and the Cross River gorilla.</li>
</ul>



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



<p>Mountain gorillas are found in the cloud forests of Central Africa, specifically in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They live at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 13,000 feet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Western Lowland gorillas inhabit the rainforests of Central and West Africa, including countries like Gabon, Cameroon, and the Republic of the Congo.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-structure-and-behavior">Social structure and behavior</h3>



<p>Gorillas live in groups called troops, which typically consist of one dominant male, known as the silverback, along with multiple females and their offspring. The silverback serves as the protector and decision-maker of the troop.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Gorillas communicate through vocalizations, body postures, and facial expressions. Their social structure is remarkably intricate, built on strong family ties and relationships.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet">Diet</h3>



<p>Gorillas are primarily herbivorous, relying on leaves, shoots, and stems as their main food sources. They also eat fruits, small insects, and, occasionally, small vertebrates. Their diet varies by habitat and availability of food sources.</p>



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



<p>The survival of gorillas is increasingly threatened due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease. For instance, diseases transmitted by humans, such as respiratory infections, have become a significant concern. Illegal hunting for bushmeat and capture for the illegal pet trade also puts pressure on gorilla populations.</p>



<p>Efforts to conserve gorillas include establishing and maintaining national parks and reserves, implementing anti-poaching measures, and community engagement programs to encourage local populations to become stewards of gorilla conservation. Initiatives like World Gorilla Day play a crucial role in raising awareness and funds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystem-health">Ecosystem health</h3>



<p>Gorillas have a multifaceted role in maintaining the health and stability of their ecosystems. Their decline or extinction would have cascading effects, potentially leading to reduced biodiversity, compromised forest health, and weakened ecosystem services, emphasizing the importance of their conservation.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seed-dispersal">Seed dispersal</h4>



<p>Gorillas have a primarily vegetarian diet, which includes a variety of fruits. After consuming these fruits, they excrete the seeds in different locations. This seed dispersal is vital for forest regeneration and increasing plant diversity. Many of the plants they consume rely on gorillas to help their seeds spread and germinate.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrient-recycling">Nutrient recycling</h4>



<p>By feeding on vegetation and subsequently excreting waste, gorillas play a part in recycling vital nutrients in the forest ecosystem. Their waste enriches the soil, promoting plant growth.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-health-and-dynamics">Forest health and dynamics</h4>



<p>Gorillas, particularly the Western Lowland gorilla, are known to clear vegetation in areas where they nest each night. This seemingly small act has a cumulative effect, creating clearings in forests that allow new plants to grow and letting sunlight penetrate deeper into the forest. This dynamic action affects forest composition and structure over time.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-control-of-herbivore-populations">Control of herbivore populations</h4>



<p>While gorillas are herbivores, their presence can influence the density and behavior of other herbivorous animals in the ecosystem due to competition for food resources.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bioindicator-species">Bioindicator species</h4>



<p>Gorillas, being at the top of their food chain and reliant on a specific habitat, can serve as an indicator of the overall health of their ecosystem.&nbsp;</p>



<p>If gorilla populations are thriving, it often indicates that the lower levels of the food chain are in balance and that the habitat is healthy. Conversely, declining gorilla populations might indicate problems in the ecosystem.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-and-cultural-importance">Economic and cultural importance</h4>



<p>While not a direct ecological role, gorillas play a crucial role in the local economy and culture of regions where they inhabit.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Gorilla trekking and ecotourism attract thousands of visitors, providing significant revenue and jobs. These tourism activities often fund conservation projects which benefit not only the gorillas but the broader ecosystem.</p>



<p>As we celebrate World Gorilla Day, it is essential to recognize their intrinsic value as unique and complex creatures, as well as their significance to ecosystems. The plight of the gorilla is more than a conservation issue; it is a call to uphold the interconnectedness of life on Earth.</p>



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World Gorilla Day: Supporting the guardians of the forest

World Gorilla Day marks its 7th anniversary today, pushing for...

<p>In a recent opinion paper, a team of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fibonacci-spirals-an-unexpected-twist-in-plant-evolution/">plant</a> scientists has introduced a novel method to sequester carbon dioxide by "re-greening" arid regions, without competing with agriculture or food production.</p>



<p>This innovative solution was proposed by a research team led by Heribert Hirt from the <a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King Abdullah University of Science and Technology</a>.</p>



<p>Their report, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tplants.2023.08.009" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Trends in Plant Science</em></a>, suggests that deserts could be transformed into carbon sinks.</p>



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



<p>As carbon dioxide (CO2) levels rise, the race is on to find solutions beyond merely cutting emissions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"With greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations at the highest level for 2 million years, humanity is facing an unprecedented challenge from climate change," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>"Consequently, average temperature increases, ice sheet melting, ocean/sea level increases, and extreme weather patterns are becoming routine. These changes threaten the foundations of human civilization."</p>



<p>Capturing and storing vast amounts of CO2 already in the atmosphere has become crucial. Reforestation is considered to be an ideal approach, but often clashes with agricultural needs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-deserts-into-carbon-sinks">Turning deserts into carbon sinks</h2>



<p>The researchers propose that we could transform arid ecosystems into efficient carbon-capture systems with improved soil health, enhanced photosynthetic efficiency, and larger root biomass by engineering ideal combinations of plants, soil microbes, and soil type.</p>



<p>“Re-greening deserts by restoration of ecosystem functions, including carbon sequestration, should be the preferential approach,” wrote the researchers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The advantage of reclaiming arid regions for re-greening and carbon sequestration is that they do not compete with lands used in agriculture and food production.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arid-regions">Arid regions</h2>



<p>Arid regions cover approximately one-third of our planet's land surface. These areas typically support minimal vegetation due to water scarcity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Yet, certain plants, adapted to these harsh conditions, have evolved ways to survive.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Some use unique photosynthesis methods, others have special root systems, and a few even produce oxalates which can convert into water during droughts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-oxalate-carbonate-pathway">The oxalate-carbonate pathway</h2>



<p>Oxalates are ions made up of carbon and oxygen. Soil microbes consume these oxalates as their primary carbon source.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Upon doing so, they release carbonate molecules into the soil. These molecules can react with calcium in calcium-rich and alkaline soils, forming stable calcium carbonate deposits.</p>



<p>This biogeochemical process can be enhanced in arid lands to transform them from barren stretches into thriving carbon sinks, complete with healthy soils and plants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Overall, in this form of carbon sequestration, one out of every sixteen photosynthetically fixed carbon atoms might be sequestered into carbonates,” wrote the study authors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fertility-islands">Fertility islands</h2>



<p>To initiate this transformation, the authors propose the creation of "fertility islands."&nbsp;</p>



<p>These are small pockets of revived habitat where plants and microbes can flourish and eventually spread, creating a blanket of vegetation across the arid landscape.</p>



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



<p>Despite its promise, this method also has some challenges. Arid conditions naturally mean slower plant growth, which could limit the pace of carbon sequestration.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, the adoption and effectiveness of this technology rely heavily on the financial and political will of countries with arid regions.</p>



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



<p>As the global community searches for ways to tackle the impending climate crisis, re-greening arid lands could offer a solution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Not only could this method sequester vast amounts of carbon, but it could also restore ecosystems, bringing life back to some of the most barren places on Earth.</p>



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Deserts as carbon sinks? Study reveals potential for greening arid regions

In a recent opinion paper, a team of plant scientists...

Photovoltaics,And,Wind,Turbines,Generating,Electricity,In,Solar,Power,Station

<p>A new comprehensive assessment led by <a href="https://www.portlandrealestate.com/">Portland Real Estate</a> has recently revealed how states fare on their green initiatives.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The analysis considered various components such as emission types and amounts, accessibility to nature for residents, air and water quality, use of green transportation options, fossil fuel production, and overall energy usage.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Based on these parameters, an environmental impact score was derived for each state. Here are the top 10 least <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-foods-are-healthy-and-environmentally-friendly/">environmentally friendly</a> states:</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-mississippi-33-7-100-nbsp">1. Mississippi (33.7/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Mississippi struggles most with its green initiatives, securing the lowest spot. It faces serious challenges in transportation, evidenced by the lack of hybrid or electric vehicles.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Only 0.23 percent of its population uses public transport. Its water efficiency and sustainability score are dismal, at just 2/100, attributed to the high number of residents accessing contaminated water facilities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-louisiana-34-6-100-nbsp">2. Louisiana (34.6/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Louisiana, though slightly ahead of Mississippi, has the nation’s poorest nature score at 20.7 out of 100. The state has a mere 50 square miles dedicated to parks and is significantly lacking in hiking trails.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, its substantial contribution of 183.3 million tons to national CO2 emissions cannot be overlooked.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-new-mexico-35-2-100-nbsp">3. New Mexico (35.2/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>New Mexico’s lower ranking arises from concerns related to water quality, with 1.1 million residents depending on unreliable water sources.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The state also has the 13th poorest air quality and is a significant producer of coal, with an annual production close to 9,265 thousand short tons.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-alabama-35-8-100-nbsp">4. Alabama (35.8/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Alabama’s low score stems from transportation challenges, with just 1.53 percent of its vehicles being electric or hybrid.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The state’s score also lags due to a mere 75 square miles being covered by parks. Additionally, it ranks 13th in the country for CO2 emissions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-north-dakota-36-3-100-nbsp">5. North Dakota (36.3/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>North Dakota’s environmental challenges are accentuated by its high emissions rate, rising to 3.32kg of black carbon per person annually.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Its transportation metrics are also concerning, with a mere 0.19 percent of vehicles being green. Furthermore, the state is a significant producer of fossil fuels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-west-virginia-37-5-100-nbsp">6. West Virginia (37.5/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>West Virginia faces significant water quality challenges, with 934,993 residents depending on compromised water facilities. Its CO2 emissions also stand out, rising up to 76.9 million tons annually.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-oklahoma-38-8-100-nbsp">7. Oklahoma (38.8/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Oklahoma’s low score is due to transportation and nature-related challenges. The state has a limited number of electric or hybrid vehicles and lacks expansive green spaces, with only 88 square miles dedicated to parks. Additionally, its annual CO2 emission stands at 63.1 million tons.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-alaska-39-6-100-nbsp">8. Alaska (39.6/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Alaska, despite its vast natural landscapes, has the second-highest emissions score.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The state produces 36 million tons of CO2 yearly. Its fossil fuel production is also significant, and only a small percentage of its vehicles are green.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-9-texas-40-7-100-nbsp">9. Texas (40.7/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Texas, a significant contributor to CO2 emissions, produces a staggering 624 million tons annually. Its fossil fuel production is also substantial, and it ranks low in air quality metrics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-10-kentucky-41-6-100-nbsp">10. Kentucky (41.6/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Kentucky’s challenges revolve around water quality and transportation. It has a low percentage of green vehicles, and its annual CO2 emissions reach 101.9 million tons.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-highlight-oregon-51-6-100-nbsp">Highlight: Oregon (51.6/100)&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Oregon ranks as the 20th greenest state. Its transportation score is commendable, with 8.42 percent of vehicles being hybrid or electric. However, it struggles with emissions, producing 9.25 tons of CO2 per person annually.</p>



<p>“It is interesting to see how each state has scored in the various factors that contribute to a less green environment. When deciding where to live or buy a home, a greener environment is a deciding factor for many,” a spokesperson from Portland Real Estate concluded.&nbsp;</p>



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Going green: Which U.S. states are the least environmentally friendly?

A new comprehensive assessment led by Portland Real Estate has...

<p>A new study led by the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/">University of Oxford</a> is shedding light on a concerning issue that many may have overlooked. The researchers have determined that sewage pollution is more detrimental to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hypoxia-is-a-serious-problem-in-rivers-worldwide/">rivers</a> than agriculture.</p>



<p>The study was launched ahead of World Rivers Day, which is celebrated on September 24th.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that even when sewage undergoes treatment, its discharge into rivers affects water quality far more than runoff from surrounding land use.</p>



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



<p>The experts took into consideration three pollution sources: treated sewage discharge, agriculture, and urban run-off.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team tested four rivers in England both up- and downstream of sewage discharge points across three different months.</p>



<p>While water companies in the UK have the green light to release treated wastewater into rivers, untreated wastewater can also be released during heavy rainfalls, a phenomenon termed as storm overflow.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This not only leads to significant ecological ramifications but can also jeopardize human health if that water is utilized for drinking, recreational, or agricultural activities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-from-the-study">Key findings from the study</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sewage-is-a-primary-pollutant">Sewage is a primary pollutant</h3>



<p>Sewage, whether treated or untreated, is responsible for the spike in nutrients, algae, and sewage fungus in rivers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, it severely alters the ecosystem by changing the composition of plant, animal, and microbial communities in the water.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shift-in-river-communities">Shift in river communities</h3>



<p>Downstream of sewage input, rivers exhibited a noticeable shift in macroinvertebrate and algae communities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The surge in resilient groups like cyanobacteria and worms is especially alarming. Cyanobacteria are infamous for releasing toxic chemicals that can be lethal to many aquatic species.</p>



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



<p>Though sewage discharge is a dominant threat, agricultural run-off also contributes to the degradation of water quality, especially harming specific sensitive insect groups such as mayflies, stoneflies, and caddisflies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-issue">Addressing the issue</h2>



<p>“Our study highlights the disproportionate impact that sewage discharge has on river quality, presenting an urgent need for a comprehensive action plan targeting the sewage discharge problem," said study lead author Dr. Dania Albini.</p>



<p>"Improvements to waste water plants should be implemented along with more regulations. These efforts are crucial in safeguarding the integrity and safety of our rivers - fundamental elements of both ecosystems and human wellbeing.”</p>



<p>Ecological state of UK waterways</p>



<p>The revelations from the study are timely, especially considering the deteriorating state of the UK's waterways.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With over 90% of freshwater habitats in England's vital rivers being affected by various pollutants, a holistic strategy addressing pollution is imperative for the well-being of both the environment and its inhabitants.</p>



<p>“There is ongoing debate about the cause of the poor ecological state of many rivers in the UK because it is difficult to disentangle different pollution sources," said study senior author Dr. Michelle Jackson.</p>



<p>"Here, we show that even treated sewage appears to have a stronger influence on river communities than pollution from the surrounding land. This important information should be used to prioritize the management and conservation of our rivers moving forward.”</p>



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



<p>James Wallace, CEO of the UK-based charity River Action, said the research demonstrates yet again the damage from unregulated water companies and agriculture.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"In addition to the catastrophic impact on wildlife from nutrient pollution, the public should be aware that sewage systems do not remove dangerous bacteria such as E.coli and intestinal enterococci from treated sewage," said Wallace.</p>



<p>"For instance, recent citizen science on the River Thames found that Thames Water’s outflows often have four to five times the safe levels of bacteria, that has likely caused serious illness in swimmers and rowers."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"When will the government make water companies and farms clean up their act, especially in places where human lives and sensitive protected habitats are threatened?”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-detection-system">Early detection system</h2>



<p>The researchers have also developed a new method to detect potentially dangerous "sewage fungus" outbreaks.</p>



<p>This mix of fungus, algae, and bacteria causes unpleasant smells and severely reduces oxygen levels, which can cause mass fish mortality.</p>



<p>"Rapid identification of sewage fungus pollution events will allow early intervention which would help prevent any potential negative consequences for local wildlife," said Dr. Jackson.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/gcb.16934"><em>Global Change Biology</em></a>.</p>



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Sewage pollution is a greater threat to rivers than agriculture

A new study led by the University of Oxford is...

Mining.a,Large,Scale,Mining,Infrastructure,In,Australia,For,Gold,And

<p>Geographers from the University of Lincoln, UK, report that approximately 23 million people globally reside on floodplains tainted with dangerously elevated levels of toxic waste. </p>



<p>This alarming revelation stems from an extensive research effort involving the mapping of 22,609 active and 159,735 abandoned metal mines, and was published in the renowned journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adg6704" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerning-levels-of-toxic-waste-in-rivers">Concerning levels of toxic waste in rivers</h2>



<p>The research led by Mark Macklin focused on discerning the levels of pollution percolating into the waterways from harmful contaminants such as lead, copper, zinc, and arsenic. The meticulous analysis concluded that about 479,200 kilometers of river channels covering 164,000 square kilometers are contaminated by toxic waste from hazardous chemicals on a global scale.</p>



<p>Macklin elucidates that the innovative method devised for this study empowers governments, environmental regulators, the mining sector, and local communities to predict the diffusion of mine waste in river systems around the globe. This prediction tool is a first, enabling accurate assessment of the mining impacts on ecosystems and human health, both offsite and downstream.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-study-methodology">Innovative study methodology</h2>



<p>Macklin expressed his optimism that the new methodology would facilitate the mitigation of environmental ramifications stemming from both historical and contemporary mining practices. He stressed the importance of minimizing the impacts of future mining developments on communities. The focus should be on preserving food and water security amidst rising global demand for metals and minerals essential for transitional technologies.</p>



<p>This study is anticipated to have far-reaching impacts, aiding in the reduction of environmental damage induced by previous and current mining methodologies. Professor Chris Thomas, a key contributor to the research analysis, emphasized the urgency of global metal mining expansion to facilitate the transition to green energy. Thomas acknowledged the substantial global contamination mapped in the study as a legacy from the industrial era, advocating for modern mining to prioritize environmental sustainability.</p>



<p>He further explained, "Our methods, which also operate effectively at local scales, introduce a vital new strategy in this process." To implement this strategy, an applied unit of their research center, Water and Planetary Health Analytics, has been established to collaborate with the sector.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-mining-and-environmental-concerns">Modern mining and environmental concerns</h2>



<p>Experts believe this development is crucial, especially when transitional technologies are experiencing an exponential demand for metals and minerals. This study is not only a beacon of knowledge shedding light on the environmental impacts of mining but also a compass guiding modern mining towards environmental sustainability and human safety. </p>



<p>The approach proposed by the team serves as an invaluable asset for gauging and mitigating the repercussions of mining activities on ecological and human health.</p>



<p>This comprehensive research underscores the significance of refining mining practices and presents a new paradigm in environmental conservation. The goal is to enable a harmonious coexistence between mining endeavors and ecological well-being. </p>



<p>The implications of this study are pivotal, offering a road map for industries, regulators, and communities to navigate the complexities of environmental conservation in mining, all while aligning with the escalating need for metals in advancing green technologies.</p>



<p>---</p>



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23 million people are exposed to toxic waste from mining activities

Geographers from the University of Lincoln, UK, report that approximately...

Underwater,Gas,Pipelines,For,Gas,Transportation,In,Europe.,Underwater,View.

<p>Swedish researchers from Stockholm University and Linne University have unveiled a startling discovery of vast methane leaks erupting from the seabed of the Baltic Sea. This revelation has caused renewed scrutiny in environmental circles and prompted deeper investigation into the underlying causes and potential ramifications.</p>



<p>The scientists stumbled upon methane bubbles escalating up to 370 meters in a delimited area of 20 square kilometers off the southeastern coast of Sweden. This discovery illustrates a phenomenon unseen in the ongoing study of underwater ecosystems and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-find-a-new-way-to-locate-methane-leaks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane emissions</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-and-intact-bubbles">Intense and intact bubbles</h2>



<p>Christian Stranne, a notable member of the research team from <a href="https://www.su.se/cmlink/stockholm-university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stockholm University</a>, in an official statement, emphasized the uniqueness of the methane leak conditions. He noted that the oxygen-free waters of the Baltic Sea might facilitate the intact rise of the bubbles to the surface. </p>



<p>Stranne voiced his astonishment over witnessing intense bubbles originating from such unprecedented depths, stating, “We know that methane gas can bubble up from shallow seabeds near the Baltic Sea coast, but I’ve never seen such intense bubbles before – and definitely not from such a deep area."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-baltic-sea-methane-leaks-suspected">More Baltic Sea methane leaks suspected</h2>



<p>This discovery suggests the potential presence of similar methane leaks in different regions of the Baltic Sea, due to the atypical levels of methane discovered. The unusual conditions have spurred the team into further exploratory and analytical endeavors to unravel the mystery behind the high methane levels in the area.</p>



<p>Marcelo Ketzer, the project leader and a professor of environmental science at Linne University, echoed Stranne's concerns and insights. He underscored the current lack of comprehensive knowledge about the factors influencing methane production in deeper regions and the trajectory of the released methane. Ketzer also stressed the urgent need for understanding the dynamics at play in these deeper realms of the Baltic Sea.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-link-to-the-nord-stream-pipeline">Possible link to the Nord Stream Pipeline</h2>



<p>This instance of methane leak aligns temporally with the ruptures in the Nord Stream Pipeline under the Baltic Sea reported a year prior, considered by the <a href="https://www.unep.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Environment Programme</a> (UNEP) to be the largest single release of methane ever recorded.</p>



<p>Last September, the pipeline, pivotal for the transport of natural gas from Germany to Russia, suffered extensive damage due to sudden underwater explosions, leading to unanticipated and significant methane emissions.</p>



<p>This revelation fuels speculation and concerns over environmental safety and integrity, highlighting the necessity for meticulous analysis and research to comprehend the production, release, and impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> from the seabed. </p>



<p>The increased scrutiny and extensive research spurred by this discovery will be paramount in understanding the environmental and ecological implications of methane leaks, and in developing strategies to monitor and mitigate any detrimental impacts on marine ecosystems and climate.</p>



<p>The concerted efforts by the research teams at Stockholm and Linne Universities to probe deeper into this phenomenon will play a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the methane cycle in the Baltic Sea and potentially in other similar ecosystems globally. The revelations and insights gleaned from their ongoing research will be instrumental in advancing scientific knowledge and environmental conservation initiatives.</p>



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Large methane leaks discovered in the Baltic Sea

Swedish researchers from Stockholm University and Linne University have unveiled...

Macro,Image,Of,A,Dead,Bee,On,A,Leaf,From

<p>Recent research discovered that over 10% of English river sites contain hazardous levels of pesticides that are toxic to bees and also prohibited by the European Union (EU). </p>



<p>The alarming levels of neonicotinoids, particularly in rivers in the east of England, South East, and West Midlands, expose severe environmental concerns and potential risks to aquatic life and human health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-damaging-presence-of-neonicotinoids">Damaging presence of neonicotinoids</h2>



<p>Of the 283 river sites that underwent examination by the Environment Agency between 2020 and 2022, at least one of the five neonicotinoids was present in 29. It is distressing to note that 55% of these 29 sites exhibited one or more neonicotinoids above the <a href="https://echa.europa.eu/environmental-quality-standards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Quality Standard</a> (EQS) set by the EU, deemed safe for aquatic species. Furthermore, over four times the acceptable limit of one or more pesticides marked 21% of the sites.</p>



<p>The research brought to light the presence of clothianidin, imidacloprid, and thiamethoxam. These pesticides, banned in the UK since 2018 for outdoor crops, are notorious for their harmful impacts on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/omega-3-oil-may-help-protect-pollinators-from-pesticides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> and aquatic organisms. </p>



<p>Thiacloprid and Acetamiprid were also identified. The former was prohibited in 2020 due to potential detrimental effects on human health, while the latter, still allowed in the UK, is known to accumulate and damage various living organisms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-areas-with-highest-concentrations">Areas with highest concentrations</h2>



<p>The east of England, the West Midlands, and Yorkshire and Humber showcased the highest concentrations of neonicotinoids at single sites. The rivers Ivel, Nene, Ouse, Tame, and Waveney in these regions were the most prevalent for pesticide use.</p>



<p>Tessa Wardley, the Director of Communications and Advocacy at the <a href="https://theriverstrust.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rivers Trust</a>, emphasized the likely understatement of the actual extent of neonicotinoid pollution in English rivers due to infrequent and inadequate monitoring by the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/environment-agency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environment Agency</a>, especially during wet weather when the risk of rapid flushing of pesticides into rivers is heightened.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controversy-and-debate">Controversy and debate</h2>



<p>This revelation coincides with ongoing debates within the government regarding the renewal of the usage of thiamethoxam for the fourth consecutive year. This debate has sparked controversy due to previous emergency authorizations contradicting expert counsel. </p>



<p>The EU Court of Justice, in January 2023, deemed such emergency authorizations of seeds treated with banned neonicotinoids as violations of EU law.</p>



<p>Nick Mole, Policy Officer at Pesticide Action Network UK, termed the findings as “hugely concerning,” urging the UK government to put a halt to ‘emergency’ extensions for the use of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neonicotinoids-kill-bees-and-threaten-hundreds-of-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">banned pesticides</a> and to institute a robust and well-funded monitoring system for all UK water bodies urgently.</p>



<p>Barnaby Coupe, Land Use Policy Manager at The Wildlife Trusts, also criticized the UK government's ongoing approval of toxic pesticides, which he claims has ignored scientific findings and expert advice, resulting in a significant reduction in wildlife.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-government-actions">Government actions</h2>



<p>In response, a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) assured that their comprehensive Plan for Water is addressing every source of pollution through enhanced investment, stricter regulation, and tougher enforcement. </p>



<p>They further highlighted the government's commitment to minimizing the risks and impacts of pesticides and reducing the use of insecticides by farmers through increased funding and sustainable farming incentives.</p>



<p>In summary, the new research has sparked renewed urgency and concern regarding the hazardous levels of prohibited pesticides in English rivers, revealing the far-reaching impacts on wildlife, aquatic life, and potentially human health. </p>



<p>The government is under increased pressure to enhance monitoring, regulation, and enforcement to combat the rising levels of harmful pesticides and to reconsider the allowances and extensions granted for the use of such chemicals in the agriculture sector.</p>



<p>This study was conducted by the <a href="https://www.wcl.org.uk/rt.asp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rivers Trust and Wildlife and Countryside Link</a> (WCL) </p>



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Concerning levels of bee-harming pesticides discovered in English rivers

Recent research discovered that over 10% of English river sites...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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