<p>A mountain the size of a major Rocky Mountain peak is sitting under the Pacific Ocean north of Palau, and we finally have a map of it. The top rests about 800 feet below the surface, yet the whole <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-plastic-graveyard-uncovered-in-the-deep-mediterranean-sea/">structure</a> climbs roughly 2.6 miles from the deep seafloor.</p>



<p>The discovery comes from a NOAA Ocean Exploration cruise that focused on a rarely mapped stretch of ocean. The team put time on task, swept the area with high resolution acoustics, and confirmed the feature’s size and shape.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-ocean-mountain-discovered">Hidden ocean mountain discovered</h2>



<p>The first public look at this feature appeared in a field <a href="https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/expedition-feature/live-from-the-field-updates-from-garret/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">log</a> posted on September 2, 2025, which described the mountain about 250 miles north of Palau and noted its summit depth and scale. That early report also set the stage for future dives and sampling.</p>



<p>This account comes from <a href="https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/multimedia/garret-odonnell-with-noaa-ship-okeanos-explorer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Garret O’Donnell</a> of NOAA Ocean Exploration, a 2025 <a href="https://seagrant.noaa.gov/communities/students/graduate-fellows/knauss-fellowship-program/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John A. Knauss</a> fellow aboard NOAA Ship <a href="https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/okeanos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Okeanos</a> Explorer. He is part of the mapping team that turned raw sonar pings into a usable chart of the seamount.</p>



<p>“It’s funny to me that were we not actively mapping these features, we would have no idea that a mountain half the height of Mount Everest lies directly beneath us," O'Donnell enthused. </p>



<p>"Maybe one day the map we made of this behemoth will be used to navigate the feature with a remotely operated vehicle to get a closer look."</p>



<p>The numbers are straightforward and worth stating clearly. The peak sits about 800 feet down, and the full height from the abyssal plain to the summit is about 2.6 miles.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/seamount_ocean-mountain_palau_mapping_NOAA_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/seamount_ocean-mountain_palau_mapping_NOAA_1s.webp" alt="A map showing the depth extent of an unnamed seamount that was fully mapped as part of Beyond the Blue: Palau Mapping 2 expedition. Credit: NOAA Ocean Exploration, 2025 Beyond the Blue" class="wp-image-1986402"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>A map showing the depth extent of an unnamed seamount that was fully mapped as part of Beyond the Blue: Palau Mapping 2 expedition. Click image to enlarge. Credit: NOAA Ocean Exploration, 2025 Beyond the Blue</em></figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-seamounts-matter">Why seamounts matter</h2>



<p>A seamount is an <a href="https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/ocean-fact/seamounts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underwater mountain</a>, most often the remains of an extinct volcano that never broke the surface or later sank below the waves. </p>



<p>Less than one tenth of a percent of the world’s seamounts have been explored, a figure that captures how much frontier still exists in the deep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-turtle-day-2025-ancient-creatures-with-modern-challenges/">ocean</a>.</p>



<p>Scientists estimate there are more than 100,000 large seamounts on Earth when you count those taller than about 3,280 feet. That global count was formalized in a 2010 <a href="https://topex.ucsd.edu/sandwell/publications/127.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> that combined satellite and ship data to build a census.</p>



<p>Why do these mountains matter for life in the ocean? Their shape changes currents, concentrates food, and creates habitats that attract fish, corals, and marine mammals.</p>



<p>This point was underscored by NOAA’s national marine sanctuaries team in a 2025 <a href="https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/news/2025/reasons-seamounts-matter.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explainer</a> on why seamounts matter.</p>



<p>The new map north of Palau gives researchers a fixed target for future biological work. It also gives navigators and managers a better picture of the seafloor in a region where charts can still be sparse.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-new-ocean-mountain">Mapping the new ocean mountain</h2>



<p>The workhorse tool was <a href="https://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/technology/sonar-multibeam/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multibeam sonar</a>, an array that sends out many sound beams and times their echoes to build a detailed picture of the seafloor. </p>



<p>Each pass traces a swath under the ship, and careful overlapping tracks stitch those swaths into a complete map.</p>



<p>Teams call the survey <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unprecedented-collapse-panamas-ocean-upwelling-fails-for-the-first-time-in-40-years/">pattern</a> “mowing the lawn,” because it is an even, methodical sweep that favors coverage and consistency. </p>



<p>That approach is slow, but it is the way to find steep slopes, ledges, and summit shapes that single passes can miss.</p>



<p>Precision matters, so crews run regular checks to keep the data within tight error limits. When the seas cooperate, this produces clean coverage that captures the real outline of a feature rather than a guess based on sparse lines.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-palau-sanctuary-setting">Palau sanctuary setting</h2>



<p>The mountain rises inside waters tied to the <a href="https://marine-conservation.org/blue-sparks/projects/palau-nms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Palau National Marine Sanctuary</a>, a <a href="https://picrc.org/work/palau-national-marine-sanctuary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">policy</a> that closed about 80 percent of the nation’s exclusive economic zone to extractive activity on January 1, 2020. </p>



<p>This makes the area a natural lab for documenting geology and life with less pressure from fishing.</p>



<p>Palau’s sanctuary sits near deep water that drops quickly from the island shelf. That geography lets research ships reach study sites in hours rather than days, which helps when a weather window appears.</p>



<p>Protected status also changes the kinds of questions teams can ask. With a baseline in place, future work can track how untouched seamount habitats function over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explaining-the-size">Explaining the size</h2>



<p>The summit at roughly 800 feet makes this feature accessible to surface ship sensors and, with the right systems, to human tended or autonomous vehicles. </p>



<p>The full height of about 2.6 miles shows it is not a small bump, but a major structure that would not look out of place among prominent continental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-dolphin-day-2025-honoring-the-oceans-most-playful-minds/">peaks</a>.</p>



<p>For context, that height is in the same league as well known mountains on land. The comparison helps illustrate how much topography is hiding in plain sight beneath open water.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/seamount_ocean-mountain_palau_rov-tracks_NOAA_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/seamount_ocean-mountain_palau_rov-tracks_NOAA_1s.webp" alt="The location of the unnamed seamount mapped during the Beyond the Blue: Palau Mapping 2 expedition relative to the ship’s trackline shows the lawn mowing survey pattern and position north of Palau. Credit: NOAA Ocean Exploration, 2025 Beyond the Blue" class="wp-image-1986404"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>The location of the unnamed seamount mapped during the Beyond the Blue: Palau Mapping 2 expedition relative to the ship’s trackline shows the lawn mowing survey pattern and position north of Palau. Click image to enlarge. Credit: NOAA Ocean Exploration, 2025 Beyond the Blue</em></figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-mountain-maps-matter">Ocean mountain maps matter</h2>



<p>A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) can now be guided to interesting ledges and slopes rather than wandering. </p>



<p>Targeted transects can record sponge and coral communities, fish schools, and any signs of mineral crusts that often coat old volcanic rock.</p>



<p>Water sampling can pair with environmental DNA (<a href="http://edna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eDNA</a>) analysis to list species without seeing them directly. Those data can set a baseline for the site, which is essential for tracking change.</p>



<p>Good <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/bathymetry.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bathymetry</a> improves navigation by reducing the chance of surprise shallows or pinnacles near shipping routes. </p>



<p>It also makes tsunami and circulation models more accurate, since seafloor shape affects how waves and currents move energy.</p>



<p>For research planning, a complete map is the difference between blind searching and directed work. It saves days of ship time and compresses campaigns into focused operations.</p>



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



<p>The expedition that produced this map connects to a larger push to chart and understand Palau’s deeper waters. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.noaa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a> has outlined a multi-cruise <a href="https://www.aoml.noaa.gov/3-research-cruises-depart-to-improve-understanding-of-atlantic-and-southern-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plan</a> in the region, working with local partners to collect high resolution mapping data across the sanctuary.</p>



<p>Each new map reduces uncertainty and opens the door to more detailed work. It is a steady build toward a fuller view of the Pacific floor near Palau.</p>



<p>The global picture still frames the task. A widely cited census estimated more than 100,000 large seamounts worldwide, which shows how much there is left to find and study.</p>



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



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Massive underwater mountain discovered that is larger than some peaks in the Rockies

A mountain the size of a major Rocky Mountain peak is sitting under the Pacific Ocean north of Palau, and we finally have a map of it. The top rests about 800 feet below the surface, yet the whole structure climbs roughly 2.6 miles from the deep seafloor. The discovery comes from a NOAA Ocean Exploration cruise that focused on a rarely mapped stretch of ocean. The team put time on task, swept the area with high resolution acoustics, and confirmed the feature’s size and shape. Hidden...

Close-up,Of,Micro,Plastic,Particles,On,The,Fingers,Under,A

<p>New research has revealed that microplastics are pervasive in our lakes and freshwater environments, sometimes to an even higher degree than in the notorious oceanic "garbage patches."</p>



<p>In an era when approximately 14 million tons of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-sea-ice-algae-heavily-contaminated-with-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic waste</a> find their way into our oceans annually, it's easy to overlook the plastic problem lurking in our freshwater bodies. This disturbing international study, however, shows that our lakes, reservoirs and rivers are not immune to plastic pollution.</p>



<p>Ted Harris, associate research professor for the Kansas Biological Survey &amp; Center for Ecological Research at the University of Kansas, and a participant in the study, commented on the surprising findings.</p>



<p>“We found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-are-exposed-to-microplastics-before-theyre-even-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> in every lake we sampled. Some of these lakes you think of as clear, beautiful vacation spots. But we discovered such places to be perfect examples of the link between plastics and humans.”</p>



<p>Harris is a member of the international <a href="https://gleon.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Lake Ecological Observatory Network (GLEON)</a>, a group of 79 researchers devoted to studying processes and phenomena occurring in freshwater environments.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-scientists-studied-microplastics-in-lakes">How scientists studied microplastics in lakes</h2>



<p>The team's new paper, aptly titled “<a href="http://www.nature.com/articles/s4186-023-06168-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plastic debris in lakes and reservoirs</a>,” has been published in the renowned scientific journal Nature. It discloses that concentrations of plastic found in freshwater bodies can actually exceed those found in marine garbage patches.</p>



<p>For this research project, Harris collaborated with Rebecca Kessler. She is his former student and a recent graduate of KU. Together, they tested three water bodies in Kansas: Clinton Lake, Perry Lake, and the Cross Reservoir at the KU Field Station.</p>



<p>Kessler provided insight into their research methodology. She explained, “That entailed us going out, trawling a net with tiny little holes in it, dragging it for about two minutes, then collecting those samples of microplastics and sending them off to the lead researchers.”</p>



<p>The Inland Water Ecology and Management research group from the University of Milano-Bicocca in Italy orchestrated the study. Barbara Leoni and Veronica Nava spearheaded the study.</p>



<p>The Italian group sampled surface waters of 38 lakes and reservoirs. They focused on diverse geographical locations and limnological attributes and found plastic debris in every single one.</p>



<h2>Freshwater microplastics directly linked to human activity</h2>



<p>Harris points out that the study illustrates a clear correlation between human populations and the prevalence of plastics. Surprisingly, even seemingly pristine, scenic lakes can contain high levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-confirms-microplastics-have-entered-our-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>. This contamination often originates from unsuspected sources like clothing.</p>



<p>As Harris explained, “The simple act of people getting in swimming and having clothing that has microplastic fibers in it leads to microplastics getting everywhere.”</p>



<p>The study particularly highlights the vulnerability of two types of water bodies: those in densely populated and urbanized areas, and those with elevated deposition areas, long water retention times, and high levels of human influence.</p>



<h2>Using the word “micro” doesn’t minimize the problem</h2>



<p>Despite his knowledge of aquatic ecology, Harris admitted that this research was eye-opening for him.</p>



<p>“When we started the study, I didn’t know a lot about microplastics versus large plastics. When this paper says ‘concentrations as much or worse than the garbage patch,’ you always think of the big bottles and stuff, but you’re not thinking of all that smaller stuff."</p>



<p>Participating in the study was not just an academic pursuit for Harris and Kessler. Their motivation stemmed from a desire to highlight a region of the U.S. that large global studies often overlook.</p>



<p>In Harris' words, “In this study, there’s one dot in the middle of the country, and that’s our sample. So it was really important for me to put Kansas on the map to see and contextualize what these differences are in our lakes.”</p>



<p>Harris, who has been at KU since 2013, focuses his research on aquatic ecology, while Kessler graduated from KU in 2022 with a degree in ecology, evolutionary &amp; organismal biology.</p>



<p>Their work confirms an unsettling fact. "The biggest takeaway from our study is that microplastics can be found in all lakes," Kessler said.</p>



<p>"Obviously, there are different concentrations. But they are literally everywhere. And the biggest contributing factor to these microplastics is human interaction with the lakes.”</p>



<h2>More about microplastics</h2>



<p>Microplastics are tiny particles of plastic that measure less than 5mm in diameter, often too small to be seen by the naked eye.</p>



<p>They come from a variety of sources. These include larger plastic debris that breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces, as well as microbeads, a type of microplastic used in health and beauty products like exfoliants and toothpaste.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/understanding-the-effects-of-microplastics-on-our-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> also come from synthetic fibers shed by clothes, upholstery, and other textiles during washing. From there, they enter the environment via wastewater.</p>



<h3>Causing substantial harm to our ecosystems</h3>



<p>Microplastics have become a significant environmental issue due to their abundance, persistence, and potential to carry harmful substances. They are now ubiquitous in terrestrial and aquatic environments, from the deepest sea trenches to the highest mountains, and even in the air we breathe.</p>



<p>Once in the environment, microplastics can have a substantial impact on ecosystems. They can be mistaken for food by wildlife, leading to physical harm, such as blockages in the digestive tract, or starvation when animals consume too much plastic and too little food.</p>



<p>Plastics can also act as carriers for pollutants. These include heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-on-water-trapped-on-plant-leaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bioaccumulate in organisms</a> and potentially move up the food chain.</p>



<p>Research has shown that microplastics can be ingested by a wide range of species, from tiny zooplankton to birds, fish, and mammals. This has raised concerns about potential impacts on food chains and ecosystems, as well as on human health, although the exact risks are not yet fully understood.</p>



<h3>New plastic detection methods for freshwater</h3>



<p>The study of microplastics is a rapidly growing field. Researchers are developing new methods for detecting and quantifying these particles in the environment, studying their impacts on wildlife and ecosystems, and investigating ways to prevent their release into the environment.</p>



<p>Some governments and organizations have taken steps to address the problem. For instance, several countries have banned the use of microbeads in cosmetics and personal care products.</p>



<p>However, given the scale of plastic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-can-make-other-pollutants-more-toxic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> and the wide variety of sources, tackling the issue of microplastics will require a multi-faceted approach. Some ideas include reducing overall plastic consumption and improving waste management practices.</p>



<p>Despite ongoing research, there's still a lot we don't know about microplastics, including their long-term effects on health and the environment. However, it is clear that they represent a significant pollution issue and that reducing our reliance on plastic and improving waste management practices are crucial steps in addressing this problem.</p>

Microplastics contaminate all lakes and freshwater environments around the world

New research has revealed that microplastics are pervasive in our...

<p>New research on the reproductive behavior of the eastern wild turkey suggests that these birds may not significantly adjust the timing of their nesting cycles in response to changing <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=climate&amp;start=0">climate</a> patterns. A lack of flexibility could put wild turkeys at risk as shifts in climate threaten the availability of food resources and protective vegetation, among other factors.</p>



<p>Chris Moorman, a professor in <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/">North Carolina State University</a>’s Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology Program, underscored the implications of the findings. "There are implications here for turkey populations if individuals are inflexible in their ability to shift their reproductive activities, as resources are certainly going to change in the future."</p>



<p>This inflexibility could result in what scientists refer to as "phenological mismatch," which Professor Moorman described as the incongruity "where the timing of an animal’s natural history doesn’t match up with the food and cover resources that are critical for successful reproduction and survival.”</p>



<h2 id="h-past-challenges-for-wild-turkeys">Past challenges for wild turkeys</h2>



<p>Overhunting and habitat loss previously drove eastern wild turkeys to the brink of extinction, but the species has since rebounded and is now prevalent throughout North America. Nonetheless, a decline in the southeastern United States population since 2009 has prompted some concern.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While North Carolina maintains a stable population, measured by hunting harvests, other southern states have introduced hunting restrictions in an effort to halt or reverse the decline. Researchers continue to explore the role of various factors, such as weather, climate change, and emerging diseases, on turkey populations.</p>



<p>The resilience of turkeys, however, has allowed the species to recover from past challenges. “Turkeys are a highly adaptable species; this adaptability facilitated their ability to be restored,” said study lead author Wesley Boone, a postdoctoral research scholar at NC State.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Boone noted that they are conducting the research to understand if turkeys can persist in a future defined by a changing climate and altered landscapes.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-scientists-conducted-the-study">How scientists conducted the study</h2>



<p>To investigate the potential impact of climate change on turkey nesting, the researchers monitored the nesting patterns of eastern wild turkeys across five Southeastern states over a period of eight years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Employing GPS transmitters attached to captured female turkeys, the team could remotely track the birds' movements, providing insights into when the turkeys began incubating their nests.</p>



<p>The study incorporated weather data spanning 2014 to 2021 to determine whether variables like temperature, rainfall, and the timing of "spring green-up" (the time when vegetation begins to grow in the spring) had any bearing on when turkeys started incubation. They also projected whether turkey nest timing would shift by 2041-2060 under two climate change scenarios.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned</h2>



<p>Analyzing the data from 717 total nests and 186 "successful" nests that hatched at least one egg, the researchers found that temperature and rainfall were associated with only slight changes in nesting times. These changes were so minimal they could be measured in hours, not days.</p>



<p>Upon further analysis, the researchers discovered that climate change-related shifts in average precipitation and temperature changes could adjust the timing of successful nests by less than three hours. Surprisingly, they found no connection between turkey nest timing and spring green-up.</p>



<p>“We did find relationships between nest timing, rainfall, and temperature, but when we projected that into the future, there is no biological relevance in the shift in timing,” said Boone. Yet, he warned that this unresponsiveness to climate change could be problematic, as the crucial food and cover resources associated with spring green-up are likely to shift earlier in the future.</p>



<p>“We did not project drastic changes in the timing of when wild turkeys nest under climate change," said Moorman. "Turkeys seem relatively inflexible as to when they reproduce – nesting is initiated around the same time each year with only slight shifts in the timing, regardless of weather conditions.”</p>



<h2 id="h-future-studies-on-eastern-wild-turkeys">Future studies on eastern wild turkeys</h2>



<p>The research, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecochg.2023.100075"><em>Climate Change Ecology</em></a>, marks the first in a series of studies aiming to understand the impact of climate change on the reproduction of the eastern wild turkey.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Future studies will explore how temperature and precipitation affect the survival of turkey nests and the recently hatched young, called poults. The implications of these studies could influence long-term conservation strategies for turkeys, including the scheduling of hunting seasons.</p>



<p>“There could be a lot of factors interacting to cause declines, including timing of the hunting season, land-use change that impacts habitat, changes in predator populations, as well as weather, climate and diseases," said Boone. "We need to begin chipping away at the questions to build a comprehensive understanding of the current and future threats to wild turkey population sustainability.”</p>



<h2 id="h-eastern-wild-turkeys">Eastern wild turkeys</h2>



<p>The eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) is a subspecies of wild turkey that is native to the eastern half of North America. This includes regions from northern Florida to Canada.</p>



<h3 id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>The eastern wild turkey is the largest subspecies of wild turkey, with males (also known as "toms" or "gobblers") typically weighing between 18 to 30 pounds and females (hens) usually weighing between 8 to 12 pounds.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Adult males also have a "beard," which is a group of specialized feathers that protrude from the chest. This subspecies has dark metallic bronzing throughout its plumage, with a white-barred to chestnut-brown tail.</p>



<h3 id="h-habitat">Habitat</h3>



<p>Eastern wild turkeys can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and grasslands. They prefer hardwood and mixed conifer-hardwood forests with scattered openings such as pastures, fields, orchards, and seasonal marshes.</p>



<h3 id="h-diet">Diet</h3>



<p>Turkeys are omnivores. They feed on a diverse diet of plant and animal matter, including seeds, leaves, berries, insects, and small vertebrates.</p>



<h3 id="h-behavior-and-reproduction">Behavior and reproduction</h3>



<p>During the spring breeding season, males will display for females by puffing out their feathers, spreading their tails, and dragging their wings, also making a distinctive gobbling sound. Females then lay a clutch of 10-12 eggs, which they incubate for about 28 days.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Wild turkeys struggle to shift their behavior in response to climate change

New research on the reproductive behavior of the eastern wild...

<p>In the most comprehensive survey of plastic pollution on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pristine-coral-reefs-have-been-invaded-by-microplastics/">coral reefs</a> to date, an international team of scientists has found that - rather counter-intuitively - the amount of plastic debris increases with depth. </p>



<p>The researchers determined that coral reef plastic pollution largely stems from fishing activities, and is associated with proximity to marine protected areas. </p>



<p>Mapping the abundance, distribution, and drivers of plastic pollution at various depths could enable scientists to identify what conservation efforts should be prioritized – and where – to protect the Earth’s essential yet highly vulnerable coral reefs.</p>



<p>“Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing problems plaguing ocean ecosystems, and coral reefs are no exception,” said lead author Hudson Pinheiro, a marine biologist at the <a href="https://www5.usp.br/">University of São Paulo</a>, and a research fellow at the <a href="https://www.calacademy.org/">California Academy of Sciences</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“From macroplastics that spread coral diseases to fishing lines that entangle and damage the structural complexity of the reef, decreasing both fish abundance and diversity, pollution negatively impacts the entire coral reef ecosystem.”</p>



<h2 id="h-visual-surveys">Visual surveys</h2>



<p>The scientists conducted over 1,200 underwater visual surveys across 84 shallow and mesophotic coral reef ecosystems spanning more than two dozen locations across the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To survey hard-to-reach mesophotic reefs located between 100 and 500 feet (30 to 150 meters) deep, in the ocean’s so-called “twilight zone,” they relied on specialized diving gear which few scientists are currently trained to use safely.</p>



<p>The investigation revealed that coral reefs are more contaminated by plastics and other human-related debris than many other previously examined marine ecosystems, although they are less polluted than shoreline ecosystems such as beaches or wetlands.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-plastic-increased-with-depth">Plastic increased with depth</h2>



<p>Of the total debris that the researchers identified, 88 percent was macroplastics (particles larger than five centimeters). Surprisingly though, the amount of plastic was found to increase with depth, peaking in the mesophotic zone, and was mostly derived from fishing activities.</p>



<p>“It was surprising to find that debris increased with depth since deeper reefs in general are farther from sources of plastic pollution,” said senior author&nbsp;Luiz Rocha, a curator of Ichthyology and co-director of the Academy’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.calacademy.org/about-us/major-initiatives/hope-for-reefs-phase-ii"><em>Hope for Reefs</em></a>&nbsp;initiative.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We are almost always the first humans to set eyes on these deeper reefs, and yet we see human-produced trash on every dive. It really puts the effect we have had on the planet into perspective.”</p>



<p>According to the scientists, the there are many potential causes of plastic pollution reaching such depths. These include increased wave action and turbulence near the surface dislodging and carrying away plastic particles, recreational divers removing debris from more accessible shallow reefs, and shallow corals with higher growth rates overgrowing and hiding the trash from surveys.</p>



<h2 id="h-widespread-debris">Widespread debris</h2>



<p>Significant levels of plastic debris were found in nearly all locations, including some of the most remote and pristine reefs, such as those located near the central Pacific’s uninhabited islands. </p>



<p>While the lowest densities of pollution (about 580 items per square kilometers) were observed in the Marshall Islands, the highest were found near Comoros, a chain of islands off the southern coast of Africa (84,500 items per square kilometer). </p>



<p>Unfortunately, since mesophotic reefs are more difficult to access, they are rarely included in conservation efforts, despite harboring unique biodiversity rarely found on shallower reefs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our findings provide more evidence that the mesophotic is not a refuge for shallow reef species in a changing climate as we once thought,” said co-author Bart Shepherd, the director of the Academy’s <a href="https://www.calacademy.org/exhibits/steinhart-aquarium">Steinhart Aquarium</a> and co-director of <em>Hope for Reefs</em>. </p>



<p>“These reefs face many of the same pressures from human society as shallow reefs, and have a unique and poorly-studied fauna. We need to protect deeper reefs and make sure that they are included in the conservation conversation.”</p>



<h2 id="h-fishing-gear">Fishing gear</h2>



<p>Although the scientists found much consumer debris (such as food wrappers or water bottles, which are the main sources of plastic pollution in many ecosystems), almost three-quarters of the plastic items polluting coral reefs were related to fishing (including ropes, nets, and fishing lines).</p>



<p>“Fishing gear, which even as debris continues to catch marine life through what we call ghost fishing, appears to contribute a large proportion of the plastic seen on mesophotic reefs,” explained co-author Lucy Woodall, a principal scientist of Nekton and associate professor of Marine Conservation Biology and Policy at <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/">University of Exeter</a>. </p>



<p>“Unfortunately, fishing gear debris is often not reduced by general waste management interventions; therefore specific solutions related to the needs of fishers should be considered, such as no-charge disposing of damaged gear in ports or individually labelling gear to ensure fishers take responsibility for misplaced equipment.”</p>



<p>By examining how the abundance of human-derived plastic debris correlated with geographic and socioeconomic factors, the scientists found that reef pollution generally increases with proximity not only to densely populated cities and markets (as expected), but also – counterintuitively – to marine protected areas. </p>



<p>This phenomenon could be explained by the fact that, since most marine protected areas allow some fishing within or near their borders and are usually more productive due to their protected status, they are heavily frequented by fishers. </p>



<h2 id="h-complex-challenges">Complex challenges&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Our findings reveal some of the complex collective challenges we face when dealing with plastic pollution. As marine resources around the world dwindle, humans that rely on those resources are turning to deeper habitats and those closer to marine protected areas where fish remain abundant,” Pinheiro explained.</p>



<p>By clarifying the major drivers of plastic pollution and showing that it increases with depth, this study could help redirecting conservation efforts to better protect our planet’s reefs. </p>



<p>The findings highlight the need to expand the depth of marine protected areas to include mesophotic reefs, and update international agreements on combating plastic pollution to include fishing gear, while developing low-cost biodegradable alternatives to plastic fishing gears that would not impact the well-being of coastal communities relying on sustainable fishing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Despite the disturbing overall trend, there were some places where we found relatively little debris, which shows us that there are effective strategies for preventing plastic pollution. If we act fast and employ science-based solutions, there absolutely is hope for coral reefs,” Shepherd concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06113-5"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



<h2>More about ocean plastic pollution</h2>



<p>Every year, about eight million metric tons of plastic make their way into our oceans. This human-made disaster poses an escalating threat to marine life, human health, and our economies. Our oceans suffocate under this burden, their once-clear blue depths blurring into a murky haze of discarded plastic.</p>



<p>Plastic, by design, is incredibly durable and resistant to degradation. These attributes that once seemed beneficial now haunt our ecosystem. </p>



<p>A single plastic bottle may persist in the ocean for up to 450 years, fragmenting into minute particles, but never fully disappearing. These microscopic fragments, known as microplastics, permeate the oceans, sediments, and even the bodies of marine creatures.</p>



<h3>Plastic's impact on marine life</h3>



<p>Plastic pollution's environmental impact is both devastating and wide-ranging. About 700 species, including endangered ones like sea turtles and the Hawaiian monk seal, are known to ingest or get entangled in plastic debris. This exposure often leads to injury, malnutrition, and death. </p>



<p>Moreover, as plastic disintegrates into microplastics, it enters the food chain. Plankton, the base of this chain, inadvertently consume these particles, resulting in bioaccumulation and biomagnification as we move up the trophic levels.</p>



<h3>Plastic's impact on humans</h3>



<p>Humans are not exempt from the impact of plastic pollution. We rely on the oceans for food, jobs, and recreation. Alarmingly, studies indicate that people may consume up to 5 grams of microplastics each week - equivalent to a credit card's weight. </p>



<p>The long-term health consequences of this ingestion remain largely unknown. However, some research points to potential links between microplastics and a host of health issues, ranging from hormonal disruption to cancer.</p>



<p>Moreover, plastic pollution has significant economic implications. It directly affects industries reliant on clean oceans, including fishing, tourism, and shipping. The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) estimates that the economic loss due to ocean plastic pollution ranges from $1.26 billion to $2.5 billion per year.</p>



<h3>Immediate action is needed</h3>



<p>We cannot ignore the plastic pollution problem any longer. The implementation of effective waste management systems is crucial, especially in developing nations where much of the plastic waste originates. </p>



<p>Reducing our plastic usage, promoting recycling, and developing biodegradable alternatives are critical steps we can take immediately. Governments, industries, and consumers must join forces to battle this crisis.</p>



<p>Research plays a pivotal role in this fight. Scientists are investigating the feasibility of plastic-eating bacteria and exploring the extent of plastic pollution, even in remote areas. Such studies could lead to breakthroughs in our battle against this pervasive pollutant.</p>



<p>In conclusion, the issue of plastic pollution is an urgent global concern that threatens marine life, human health, and our economies. However, with concerted global effort, responsible practices, and scientific innovation, we can navigate our way toward cleaner, plastic-free oceans. </p>



<p>The future health of our planet depends on our actions today. We must confront the plastic pollution problem head-on, for the sake of our oceans, our health, and generations yet to come.</p>



<p>—-</p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com"><em>Andrei Ionescu</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>



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

Coral reef plastic pollution increases with depth and near protected areas

In the most comprehensive survey of plastic pollution on coral...

<p>In a startling revelation, a recent study conducted by scientists at <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/">Columbia University</a> suggests that even levels of air pollution considered "safe" under current guidelines could trigger heart attacks. </p>



<p>More concerning still, the onset of these heart attacks can occur within just an hour of exposure to polluted air. This alarming evidence has led to increasing calls from experts for stricter air quality standards.</p>



<h2 id="h-nitrogen-dioxide">Nitrogen dioxide&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study was focused on nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a harmful pollutant mainly emitted by cars. The researchers meticulously tracked NO2 levels across nine US cities over a span of 15 years. By comparing this data with hospitalization rates due to heart attacks in the same areas, the scientists were able to discern a worrying correlation.</p>



<p>As the concentration of NO2 in the air increased, so did the risk of heart attacks. Alarmingly, this increased risk manifested itself just 60 minutes after a spike in NO2 levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Notably, the risk of heart attacks increased even when NO2 levels were lower than the current US national standard of 100 parts per billion (ppb). This threshold signifies that out of every billion units of air, 100 units of NO2 are considered safe.</p>



<p>These standards align with those set by the <a href="https://www.who.int/">World Health Organization</a> and UK air standards, which state that the hourly concentration of NO2 should not exceed 200 micrograms per cubic meter of air (µg/m³).&nbsp;</p>



<p>A level of 100 ppb NO2 is equivalent to 191 µg/m³. As per UK regulations, the hourly levels of toxic NO2 should not breach this limit more than 18 times a year. Nonetheless, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-air-quality-linked-to-cognitive-problems-in-infants/">air quality</a> tracking tools reveal that this limit is consistently surpassed in certain areas of London.</p>



<h2 id="h-dire-consequences">Dire consequences&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In a paper published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/environment-international"><em>Environment International</em></a>, the researchers wrote: "Our findings suggest that current hourly standards may be insufficient to protect cardiovascular health.'" This statement underscores an alarming reality - despite being considered "safe," current air pollution levels could have dire consequences for public health.</p>



<p>Existing studies have repeatedly linked air pollution, particularly from traffic, to heart attacks. Tiny pollutants, so minuscule that they infiltrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, can constrict blood flow to the heart. This forces the heart to work harder than usual, thus increasing the risk of heart problems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the specific timeframe within which the risk of heart problems increases after exposure to pollution, and the duration of this elevated risk, remain unknown.</p>



<p>To investigate, the team analyzed data on the hourly NO2 concentrations for cities in New York state from 2000 to 2015. This data was coupled with hospitalization information for 8.9 million people, of whom 350,000 suffered a heart attack. It was discovered that the average hourly NO2 concentrations were around 23.3 ppb.</p>



<h2 id="h-millions-of-deaths-each-year">Millions of deaths each year</h2>



<p>Disturbingly, each 10 ppb increase in NO2 concentration corresponded to a 0.2 percent rise in the risk of heart attacks. Moreover, the risk of a heart attack was found to be highest within the first hour of exposure, when it increased by 0.21 per cent.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The elevated risk persisted for six hours following spikes in NO2 levels in all cities, and even lasted up to 24 hours in some cases.</p>



<p>With around 100,000 Britons and 800,000 Americans suffering heart attacks annually, the implications of these findings are vast. As evidence mounts regarding the health risks of air pollutants - which have been linked not only to heart disease but also to dementia and cancer - the World Health Organization is urging countries to implement more stringent measures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The stakes are incredibly high; the UN agency estimates that poor air quality leads to seven million deaths annually and slashes millions of healthy years off lives.</p>



<h2 id="h-safe-levels-of-air-pollution">"Safe" levels of air pollution</h2>



<p>Defining "safe" levels of air pollution is a complex task because it is increasingly apparent that even small amounts of pollutants can have negative impacts on health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the European Environment Agency (EEA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) set standards for what they consider safe levels of various pollutants. However, these levels are under constant review as new scientific data emerges.</p>



<p>In the case of NO2, exposure can exacerbate respiratory conditions and lead to increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. PM2.5 can be inhaled deep into the lungs, potentially causing severe health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, and premature death.</p>



<p>However, increasingly, studies such as the one from Columbia University mentioned in the previous article suggest that even these "safe^ levels may not be entirely safe. The study found that heart attack risk increases even below the current standards for NO2. These findings, along with similar research, may lead to calls for stricter air quality standards.</p>



<p>Air pollution can vary greatly from one location to another, and even from one hour to the next. In areas with heavy traffic or industrial activity, for example, levels of pollutants like NO2 can spike well above the 'safe' limits, posing immediate health risks to people in those areas. This variation in air quality can make it challenging for individuals and communities to protect themselves from pollution, particularly if they lack access to real-time air quality data.</p>



<p>Moreover, certain groups, including children, older people, and people with pre-existing health conditions, are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution. Therefore, even "safe" levels of pollution may pose significant risks for these individuals. As our understanding of the impacts of air pollution continues to evolve, so too must the standards that govern air quality.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

"Safe" air pollution levels can elevate heart attack risk within one hour

In a startling revelation, a recent study conducted by scientists...

Natural,Sea,Salt,Producing,In,Las,Coloradas,,Yucatan,,Mexico

<p>In the ceaseless blue expanses of the world's oceans and the unfathomed expanse of our coastal ecosystems and estuaries, an overlooked agent is shaping the lives of countless organisms – salt and ocean salinity.</p>



<p>This is the powerful message of an eye-opening study led by an international team of researchers. They argue that the role of ocean salinity - the salt content of the water - in a rapidly shifting oceanic and coastal environment is both critically important and dramatically understudied.</p>



<p>The study is titled "Human-induced salinity changes impact marine organisms and ecosystems" and was published in the globally recognized journal, <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/13652486" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.</p>



<p>At the helm of this influential research is biologist Till Röthig from the <a href="https://www.ime.fraunhofer.de/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology</a> in Giessen. Alongside him is co-author Christian Voolstra, a professor specializing in the genetics of adaptation in aquatic systems at the <a href="https://www.uni-konstanz.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Konstanz</a>.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-changes-in-ocean-salinity-impact-important-ecosystems">How changes in ocean salinity impact important ecosystems</h2>



<p>The focus of their research? The potentially devastating impacts of changes in ocean salinity on vital ecosystems and the repercussions for coastal communities.</p>



<p>According to Röthig, "Our work shows that salinity is the elephant in the room. While we know comparably well how changing temperatures, acidification, and nutrients affect ocean and coastal ecosystems, the effects of human-induced changes in salt content, or salinity, are severely understudied."</p>



<p>It turns out, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-wetlands-can-become-too-salty-for-some-resident-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salt exposure levels</a> are indispensable for a variety of organisms. Ranging from microscopic life forms to plants and larger animals, salt is an incredibly vital element.</p>



<p>Particularly vulnerable to the impacts of changes in ocean salinity are coastal and estuarine ecosystems. They are renowned for their high productivity.</p>



<p>Voolstra explains the importance of salinity, "Salinity is a central factor for many metabolic processes – marine organisms are built to live in salty environments. Salinity is also interacting with other physical and chemical properties, such as temperature and oxygen levels, and thereby shapes the physical environment of the ocean."</p>



<h2>How climate change impacts salinity</h2>



<p>However, the changing climate brings with it variations in rainfall. This leads to extreme flood and drought events that impact freshwater availability, thus disturbing these sensitive ecosystems. Local human activities like land-use changes, urbanization, river regulation, and terrestrial runoff further amplify these challenges.</p>



<p>Salinity changes, unfortunately, aren't just another isolated problem. The researchers warn that they are expected to increase along with ocean warming, deoxygenation, nutrient enrichment, and increased sediment loads brought on by climate change and human activity.</p>



<p>The team argues that the expansion caused by warming, freshwater addition, and salinity changes contribute to sea-level rise. This rise leads to more saltwater flowing into coastal and low-lying areas, shaking up the ecosystem structures and functions.</p>



<h2>Ocean salinity can no longer be taken for granted</h2>



<p>The study's authors underscore the urgency of addressing these salinity-related challenges to protect marine and coastal ecosystems and their biodiversity. They draw particular attention to the vulnerability of specific habitats and their crucial members. These include microorganisms, plankton, coral, mangroves, tidal marshes, macroalgae, and seagrass.</p>



<p>Professor Voolstra warns about the gravity of the situation, "Our data show that projected salinity changes alone can lead to ecosystem collapse. Unfortunately, salinity change will not happen in a bubble, and these sensitive ecosystems will also have to cope with changes in temperature, oxygen, acidification, and pollution."</p>



<p>The study serves as a wake-up call. It sheds light on the threats posed by human-induced salinity changes to marine and coastal ecosystems. It also sketches out potential consequences for the health and economy of local communities in these often densely populated regions, underlining the interconnectedness of humanity's fate and the health of our oceans and coasts.</p>



<h2>More about ocean salinity</h2>



<p>Ocean salinity refers to the concentration of dissolved salts in seawater, primarily made up of sodium and chloride ions. Salinity is vital for marine life as it influences the physical and biological properties of the oceans. </p>



<p>However, it's not only about the organisms living in the seas. Salinity also affects the global climate and has wide-ranging implications for human life. Let's delve into why salinity is so important and how it's affected by climate change.</p>



<h3>Biological Importance of Ocean Salinity</h3>



<p>Ocean salinity is critical for marine organisms. Different species have adapted to live in different salinity levels. For instance, most marine species can't survive in freshwater and vice versa due to the differences in salt concentrations. </p>



<p>Salinity affects the metabolism, growth, reproduction, and distribution of marine species. It can influence where organisms are found, and drastic changes can lead to mass die-offs or shifts in species distribution. Some organisms, like mangroves and estuarine species, have specialized adaptations to cope with changes in salinity.</p>



<h3>Physical Properties and Global Climate</h3>



<p>Ocean salinity plays a significant role in the global climate. The ocean's density is influenced by its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-ocean-heat-continues-with-no-signs-of-slowing-down/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a> and salinity. </p>



<p>Cold, salty water is denser and tends to sink, while warmer, less salty water tends to rise. This difference creates a global ocean circulation system, known as the "global conveyor belt," distributing heat around the world and influencing climate patterns.</p>



<p>Moreover, salinity plays a crucial role in the ocean's ability to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-absorbed-a-record-amount-of-heat-in-2020/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">store carbon</a>, which has implications for climate change. The ocean acts as a carbon sink, absorbing a substantial amount of the carbon dioxide humans release into the atmosphere. This absorption capacity is affected by the ocean's temperature and salinity.</p>



<h3>Impact of Climate Change on Ocean Salinity</h3>



<p>Climate change is altering the salinity of the world's oceans in several ways.</p>



<h4>Changes in Rainfall and Evaporation</h4>



<p>Changes in global weather patterns can lead to increased rainfall in some areas and increased evaporation in others. More rainfall dilutes the salt concentration in seawater, decreasing salinity. Conversely, higher evaporation rates increase salinity as the water vapor leaves behind its dissolved salts.</p>



<h4>Melting Glaciers and Ice Sheets</h4>



<p>Climate change is causing rapid melting of ice caps and glaciers. This influx of freshwater into the ocean dilutes the salt concentration, reducing the overall salinity in certain regions, particularly near the poles.</p>



<h4>Sea Level Rise</h4>



<p>Rising sea levels, caused by melting ice and thermal expansion of warming ocean water, can change salinity by causing more saltwater intrusion into freshwater systems like estuaries and aquifers.</p>



<h4>Changes in Ocean Circulation</h4>



<p>Changes in salinity can affect ocean currents because they're driven in part by differences in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-accelerating-the-water-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water density</a>, which is determined by salinity and temperature. Altering these currents can impact global climate patterns and disrupt marine ecosystems.</p>



<p>Increased salinity can be harmful to marine life, particularly species that are not adaptable to salinity changes. Furthermore, changes in ocean circulation can disrupt the ocean's ability to store carbon, exacerbating climate change. </p>



<p>It's a complex, interconnected system where shifts in one aspect can have far-reaching impacts, affecting biodiversity, food security, and the livelihoods of communities that rely on the ocean.</p>



<p>So, understanding the role of salinity in the ocean and the effects of climate change on it is crucial for predicting future climate scenarios and managing marine resources effectively.</p>

Human-induced changes in ocean salinity threaten biodiversity and marine ecosystems

In the ceaseless blue expanses of the world's oceans and...

<p>The colors of our oceans have undergone a significant transformation in the last two decades, indicating a likely global outcome of human-induced climate change.</p>



<p>Scientists from the <a href="https://www.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)</a>, the <a href="https://noc.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanography Center</a> in the U.K., and other institutions reported this alarming development. The researchers presented their findings today on ocean color changes in the scientific journal Nature.</p>



<p>The team emphasized that this is not just the product of natural fluctuations from year to year. They found that these color shifts, although subtle to human eyes, have affected more than half of the world's oceans. This covers a vast expanse larger than Earth's total land area.</p>



<h2 id="h-marine-ecosystems-are-changing-along-with-ocean-colors">Marine ecosystems are changing along with ocean colors</h2>



<p>The researchers noted a particularly interesting color shift. Tropical ocean regions near the equator have been becoming steadily greener.</p>



<p>They explained that the ocean's color is a reflection of its inhabitants and the materials present in its waters. As a consequence, this shift in color means the ecosystems within the ocean surface are undergoing changes as well.</p>



<p>At this point, the scientists can't identify exactly how the marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atmospheric-dust-plays-surprisingly-crucial-role-in-stabilizing-ocean-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> are changing in response to the shifting colors. However, they strongly suspect that human-induced climate change is the primary driver.</p>



<p>Study co-author Stephanie Dutkiewicz is a senior research scientist in MIT's Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences and the Center for Global Change Science. She says, “I’ve been running simulations that have been telling me for years that these changes in ocean color are going to happen. To actually see it happening for real is not surprising, but frightening. And these changes are consistent with man-induced changes to our climate.”</p>



<p>Supporting Dutkiewicz, B. B. Cael, PhD '19 of the National Oceanography Center in Southampton, U.K., and lead author of the study, adds, “This gives additional evidence of how human activities are affecting life on Earth over a huge spatial extent. It’s another way that humans are affecting the biosphere.”</p>



<h2>What impacts ocean color?</h2>



<p>Ocean color is affected by what lies in its upper layers. Deep blue waters generally indicate a scarcity of life. Greener waters suggest the presence of vibrant ecosystems, chiefly those of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-affect-the-timing-of-plankton-blooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a>.</p>



<p>These plant-like microbes are abundant in the upper ocean and contain green pigment chlorophyll, aiding them in harvesting sunlight. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into sugars.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-insights-into-the-day-night-cycle-of-the-global-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phytoplankton</a> are essential in the marine food web. They provide sustenance for progressively complex organisms such as krill, fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. Moreover, they play a critical role in the ocean's ability to capture and store carbon dioxide.</p>



<p>Thus, monitoring phytoplankton across the surface oceans and understanding their response to climate change is a priority for scientists. They have tracked changes in chlorophyll, gauged by the ratio of blue to green light reflected from the ocean surface.</p>



<p>However, according to Stephanie Henson of the National Oceanography Center, co-author of the current study, and her colleagues, tracking chlorophyll alone would take at least 30 years of continuous monitoring to detect any climate change-driven trend.</p>



<p>They argued that this was due to large natural variations in chlorophyll concentration. This would obscure any human-induced changes.</p>



<h2>How the study was conducted</h2>



<p>To address this challenge, Dutkiewicz and her colleagues published a paper in 2019, showcasing a new model. This model demonstrated that the natural variation in other ocean colors is much smaller compared to that of chlorophyll.</p>



<p>Therefore, any climate change-driven alterations would be easier to detect amid the smaller, normal variations of other ocean colors. They predicted that such changes would be noticeable within 20 years instead of 30.</p>



<p>Motivated by this, Cael decided to look at the whole spectrum of ocean colors instead of just chlorophyll. Using data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) aboard the Aqua satellite, Cael performed a statistical analysis.</p>



<h2>Clear trend identified across seven ocean colors</h2>



<p>He examined all seven colors measured by the satellite over the last two decades. His analysis revealed a clear trend that surpassed the normal year-to-year fluctuations.</p>



<p>Comparing his results with Dutkiewicz’s 2019 model, Cael found a remarkable match. The model predicted significant trends within 20 years due to the addition of greenhouse gases.</p>



<p>This will affect about 50% of the world's surface oceans. These findings aligned almost exactly with Cael's real-world satellite data analysis.</p>



<p>“This suggests that the trends we observe are not a random variation in the Earth system,” Cael explains. “This is consistent with anthropogenic climate change.”</p>



<p>The study’s conclusions indicate that monitoring a variety of ocean colors beyond chlorophyll could offer scientists a faster, clearer method to detect changes in marine ecosystems due to climate change.</p>



<p>“The color of the oceans has changed,” Dutkiewicz confirms. “And we can’t say how. But we can say that changes in color reflect changes in plankton communities, that will impact everything that feeds on plankton. It will also change how much the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-ancient-ocean-floor-surrounds-the-earths-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> will take up carbon, because different types of plankton have different abilities to do that. So, we hope people take this seriously. It’s not only models that are predicting these changes will happen. We can now see it happening, and the ocean is changing.”</p>



<h2>More about ocean color</h2>



<p>The color of the ocean is determined by the interaction of sunlight with the substances or particles present in the water. Sunlight contains all colors of light, but water absorbs colors at different rates. </p>



<p>In clean, pure water, longer wavelengths of light, such as red, orange, and yellow, are absorbed more strongly, and short-wavelength light like blue is absorbed less. This gives large bodies of water a blue appearance.</p>



<p>There are several factors that can affect the color of ocean water:</p>



<h3>Phytoplankton</h3>



<p>Phytoplankton are tiny marine plants that live near the surface of the ocean. They contain chlorophyll to perform photosynthesis, which gives them a green color. When there are a lot of phytoplankton in the water, the ocean can look greenish.</p>



<h3>Dissolved and Suspended Particles</h3>



<p>The ocean contains many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-making-the-ocean-more-acidic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suspended particles</a> such as sand, silt, and organic matter. When sunlight hits these particles, it can scatter in many directions and change the color of the water. </p>



<p>The ocean can appear murky or brown near the coast because of the large amounts of suspended particles. Dissolved substances like salts and chemicals can also affect the color of the water.</p>



<h3>Depth</h3>



<p>The color of the ocean can also change with depth. Near the surface, where sunlight can penetrate the water, the ocean appears lighter. As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-ocean-temperatures-are-steadily-rising/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depth increases</a> and sunlight diminishes, the water appears darker.</p>



<h3>Algal Blooms</h3>



<p>Sometimes, algal blooms can cause the water to turn red or brown. This is often referred to as "red tide".</p>



<h3>Temperature and Salinity</h3>



<p>Changes in water temperature and salinity can also affect its density, which can influence how light is absorbed and scattered.</p>



<h3>Angle of the Sun</h3>



<p>The position of the sun in the sky can affect how we perceive the color of the ocean. When the sun is high, the ocean may appear to be a deep blue. Near sunrise or sunset, when the sun is low in the sky, the water might look reddish or golden.</p>



<p>Scientists can learn a lot about the ocean by studying its color. For example, they can use satellite imagery to measure the color of the ocean surface and make inferences about the amount of phytoplankton, suspended particles, and dissolved organic matter. </p>



<p>This can give them valuable information about the health of marine ecosystems and the global carbon cycle. Changes in ocean color can also signal the effects of climate change. Warmer waters may contain less phytoplankton, which also alters the color of the ocean.</p>

Ocean color has changed significantly over the past 20 years

The colors of our oceans have undergone a significant transformation...

<p>The mysterious tale of the pygmy right whale has been a topic of heated scientific debate for decades. These elusive creatures, the smallest members of the baleen whale family, possess a tank-like skeleton, an aspect that sets them apart from other whales and has shrouded their evolutionary origins in mystery.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, an international team of researchers may have finally put this debate to rest by delving into the depths of the whale's genetics, morphology, and paleontology.</p>



<p>The pygmy right whale, scientifically known as Caperea marginata, has long been a source of contention among scientists due to its unique skeletal structure and the lack of comprehensive understanding regarding its ecological behaviors. However, a breakthrough study recently published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.13047"><em>Marine Mammal Science</em></a> has shed light on this ancient evolutionary puzzle.</p>



<h2 id="h-distinct-lineage">Distinct lineage&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Dr. Felix Marx, co-author of the study and curator of marine mammals at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, suggests that the skull shape of the pygmy right whale is likely adapted for skim-feeding. This feeding style involves the whale swimming with its mouth open at the water's surface, collecting food as it goes.</p>



<p>"This is very similar to the larger true right whale, leading some scientists to believe the two whales are closely related, hence their similar names. However, others believe the pygmy right whale is more closely related to species like the blue whale, which take big gulps of water to collect food instead of skimming," explained Dr. Marx.</p>



<p>"After 150 years of anatomical orthodoxy and decades of dispute, genomics now shows beyond reasonable doubt that Caperea is a distinct lineage and not related to right whales. Like river dolphins and sperm whales, Caperea is the sole guardian of a unique piece of evolutionary heritage. It’s not just another weird right whale – it truly is the last survivor of an otherwise lost family that once played a much bigger role in Earth’s history."</p>



<p>Dr. Kieren Mitchell, co-lead author of the study and a scientist at Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, emphasized how new genetic information often leads scientists to reevaluate why certain animals exhibit more or fewer similarities. "When DNA and anatomy seem to be at odds about the relationship between species, usually that means there's an even deeper and more interesting story to be discovered about their evolution," said Dr. Mitchell.</p>



<h2 id="h-convergent-evolution">Convergent evolution</h2>



<p>Dr. Nic Rawlence, Otago Palaeogenetics Laboratory Director, describes the case of the Caperea as a prime example of convergent evolution. This phenomenon is when two unrelated species begin to bear greater resemblance to each other as they adapt to similar environmental pressures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Caperea has historically been aligned with right whales because they look the same due to similar feeding strategies, when, in fact, it’s probable that Caperea is the last surviving member of an ancient group of whales called cetotheres," said Dr. Rawlence.</p>



<h2 id="h-future-research">Future research</h2>



<p>With the pygmy right whale's evolutionary position finally affirmed, scientists are eager to delve deeper into the specifics of this whale’s lineage. Dr. Ludo Dutoit, co-lead author and a scientist at Otago’s Department of Zoology, said researchers can now start to explore the lineage of Caperea and identify significant past events that shaped its evolution.</p>



<p>Dr. Marx noted that Caperea may serve as another example of how unique adaptations can ensure survival. "River dolphins likely survived the demise of their marine relatives because they invaded freshwater habitats; sperm whales persisted when their toothed relatives disappeared because they were deep-diving suction specialists; and Caperea survived because it adapted to be a skim filter feeder, when most of its relatives presumably didn’t.”</p>



<p>This groundbreaking study highlights the remarkable power of genomics in resolving long-standing evolutionary debates, unraveling the mysteries of nature's enigmatic creatures, and illuminating the extraordinary resilience of life in Earth’s diverse habitats.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-pygmy-right-whales">More about pygmy right whales</h2>



<p>The pygmy right whale (Caperea marginata) is a baleen whale, part of the cetacean species which also includes dolphins and porpoises. It is the smallest of the baleen whales, typically reaching lengths of 6-7 meters (approximately 20-23 feet).</p>



<p>Distinctively, it is the only member of its family, Neobalaenidae. The species was first described in 1846 and it's known to inhabit the Southern Hemisphere's temperate and subpolar waters, particularly around New Zealand, South Africa, and South America.</p>



<p>The pygmy right whale's physical appearance differs quite significantly from the other right whales. It has a dark gray or black color on top and a lighter underbelly, along with a curved, falcate dorsal fin located far down its back. One of its most distinguishing features is its narrow, arching rostrum (upper jaw).</p>



<p>Like other baleen whales, the pygmy right whale feeds by filtering small organisms such as zooplankton and krill from the water using its baleen plates.</p>



<p>Despite being known to science for nearly two centuries, the pygmy right whale is one of the least studied of all whale species, partly due to its elusive behavior and preference for open ocean habitats. Hence, details about its population, life cycle, behaviors, and threats are still somewhat unclear.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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The unique evolutionary journey of the pygmy right whale

The mysterious tale of the pygmy right whale has been...

<p>When electric vehicles are parked outside, their temperature can swing widely from day to night and season to season, which can lead to deterioration of the car’s battery. To mitigate such fluctuations and extend the battery’s lifespan, a team of researchers led by the <a href="https://en.sjtu.edu.cn/">Shanghai Jiao Tong University</a> (SJTU) in China has recently designed an all-season thermal cloak that can cool electric vehicles by 8°C on a hot day and warm it by 6.8°C on cold, winter nights.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This cloak, build mainly of silica and aluminum, can achieve this passively, without any outside energy inputs, while efficiently operating in both hot and cold <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-climate-change-affect-extreme-weather-events/">weather</a>.</p>



<p>“The thermal cloak is like clothes for vehicles, buildings, spacecrafts, or even extraterrestrial habitats to keep cool in summer and warm in winter,” said senior author Kehang Cui, a materials scientist at SJTU.</p>



<h2 id="h-janus-thermal-cloak">Janus thermal cloak</h2>



<p>In order to dampen natural variations in temperature, this so-called “Janus thermal cloak” (a name inspired by the two-faced Roman god Janus) can efficiently isolate cars or other objects from the surrounding environment due to its innovative two-component design, consisting of an outer layer that reflects sunlight and an inner one that traps heat inside. The heat the outer layer absorbs can be readily dissipated to outer space.</p>



<p>“The cloak works basically the same way the earth cools down, through radiative cooling,” Cui explained. “The earth is covered by the atmosphere, and the atmosphere is transparent to a certain range of electromagnetic energy we radiate.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, while this process is desirable in the summer, it would make the vehicles colder during winter months. As Cui puts it, “you have to develop something that can turn on and off by itself without external energy input, and that’s extremely difficult.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-photon-recycling">Photon recycling&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To automatically counteract the winter cooling effect, the experts made use of a phenomenon called “photon recycling,” in which any energy that is trapped under the cloak will bounce back between the car and cloak instead of escaping to the surroundings outside.</p>



<p>To assess the cloak’s performance, the researchers conducted a series of tests on electric vehicles parked outside in Shanghai. The experiments revealed that, while the cabin temperature of an uncovered car reached up to 50.5°C at mid-day during summer, the cabin of the cloak-covered car reached 22.8°C—27.7°C lower than the uncovered car and 7.8°C lower than the temperature outside. Moreover, during cold nights the covered car stayed 6.8°C higher than the temperature outside, and never dropped below 0°C.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This is the first time that we could achieve warming above the ambient temperature by almost 7°C during winter night. This is also kind of surprising to us - there’s no energy input or sunshine and we can still get warming,” Cui said.</p>



<h2 id="h-low-cost-materials">Low-cost materials&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The scientists purposefully designed the cloak to make scaling up production easier. Its outer component is made of thin fibers of silica, which are coated in flakes of hexagonal boron nitride, a ceramic material similar to graphite which increases the fibers’ solar reflectivity. These fibers are then braided and woven together into a fabric and adhered to the aluminum alloy-based inner layer.&nbsp;</p>



<p>All of these materials are low-cost and make the cloak durable, lightweight, and fire-retardant. Although using even thinner silica fibers would have increased solar reflectivity, they would be weaker and could not be made with the high-volume, industrial-level production methods already available.</p>



<p>An in-depth description of this revolutionary cloak can be found in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.device.2023.100008"><em>Device</em></a><em>.</em><em>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </em>&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-electric-cars">More about electric cars</h2>



<p>Electric cars, also known as electric vehicles or EVs, run at least partially on electricity. Unlike conventional vehicles that use a gasoline or diesel-powered engine, electric cars and trucks use an electric motor powered by electricity from batteries or a fuel cell. Here are a few points about them:</p>



<h3 id="h-types">Types</h3>



<p>There are three main types of electric vehicles (EVs), classified by the amount or extent of electricity they use as their energy source.</p>



<p>BEVs, or Battery Electric Vehicles, run entirely on electricity. Most have all-electric ranges of 60 to over 300 miles. When the battery is depleted, it can be recharged from an external source. Examples include the Tesla Model 3 and Nissan Leaf.</p>



<p>PHEVs, or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles, can recharge the battery through both regenerative braking and "plugging in" to an external source of electrical power. While they can run exclusively on electricity, they also have a gasoline engine for when the battery is depleted. Examples include the Chevrolet Volt and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.</p>



<p>HEVs, or Hybrid Electric Vehicles, are powered by both gasoline and electricity. The electric energy is generated by the car's own braking system to recharge the battery. This is called 'regenerative braking', a process where the electric motor helps to slow the vehicle and uses some of the energy normally converted to heat by the brakes. An example is the Toyota Prius.</p>



<h3 id="h-charging">Charging</h3>



<p>Electric vehicles can be charged at home using a standard outlet or a home electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), at a public charging station, or at a workplace charging station. The time it takes to charge depends on the size of the battery and the speed of the charging point.</p>



<h3 id="h-performance">Performance</h3>



<p>Electric vehicles are generally quieter than conventional vehicles. They also have faster acceleration but slower top speed compared to conventional vehicles. However, high-end electric cars like the Tesla Roadster have shown top speeds comparable to high-performance gasoline vehicles.</p>



<h3 id="h-environmental-impact">Environmental impact</h3>



<p>Electric vehicles produce less pollution than conventional vehicles. They can be zero-emission vehicles if the electric power they use comes from renewable sources (like wind or solar), but even when the power comes from fossil fuels, they are usually more efficient than conventional vehicles.</p>



<h3 id="h-economic-impact">Economic impact</h3>



<p>While the upfront cost of electric vehicles can be higher than traditional cars, they can be cheaper to maintain and fuel. Many countries offer incentives for electric car purchases to offset the initial cost.</p>



<h3 id="h-battery">Battery</h3>



<p>The battery in an electric vehicle is a significant part of the cost. Batteries for these vehicles are large, expensive, and may need to be replaced over the life of the vehicle. However, the technology and manufacturing processes are improving rapidly, resulting in lower costs and better performance.</p>



<p>&nbsp;—</p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com"><em>Andrei Ionescu</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>



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

Thermal cloak keeps electric vehicles cool in the summer, warm in winter

When electric vehicles are parked outside, their temperature can swing...

An,Adult,Eastern,Diamondback,Rattlesnake,(crotalus,Adamanteus),In,Mid-strike,,Revealing

<p>Climate change is turning up the heat in Georgia, and the state's snake population is responding with an uptick in venomous snake bites. A disturbing <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2022GH000781">study</a> reveals that for every degree Celsius rise in daily temperature, the rate of snake bites swells by roughly 6%.</p>



<p>This alarming correlation has recently been unveiled in <a href="https://connect.agu.org/geohealth/home">GeoHealth</a>, a leading journal that highlights studies exploring the interconnection between human and planetary health, aiming for a sustainable future.</p>



<p>Our globe's temperatures are creeping upward. As this happens, cold-blooded creatures such as snakes, which are more active in the warmer weather, are becoming more prevalent.</p>



<p>Noah Scovronick, a health and environmental scientist at <a href="https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html">Emory University</a>, spearheaded the study. He states, “Venomous snake bites are classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a high-priority neglected tropical disease.”</p>



<h2 id="h-venomous-snake-bites-are-a-global-concern">Venomous snake bites are a global concern</h2>



<p>It's no small issue. Every year, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exotic-snakebites-have-increased-over-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snakes bite</a> approximately 5 million people worldwide. These bites result in up to 138,000 deaths, according to WHO data.</p>



<p>The relationship between weather fluctuations and human-snake encounters remains largely unknown. This is partly due to a lack of reliable data on the causes of sickness and death in areas where snake bites are most deadly.</p>



<p>Scovronick further commented, “We don’t know much about how weather — meaning short term changes in meteorology — drive human-snake interactions.”</p>



<h2>Studying snake bite trends</h2>



<p>Georgia holds the unfortunate distinction of being a hotspot for snakes in the United States. Georgia has an abundance of snake species. These include 17 types of venomous snakes, seven of which are dangerous enough to be medically concerning. This fact makes it an ideal state to investigate the phenomenon.</p>



<p>Scovronick, alongside his team, sifted through statewide hospital records between 2014 to 2020. They discovered 3,908 visits to hospitals during this period were due to venomous snake bites.</p>



<p>By comparing these instances to daily weather reports, they found notable correlations between snake bite occurrences and maximum air temperatures. The study also considered variables like the month and day of the week.</p>



<h2>What scientists learned about venomous snakes</h2>



<p>The researchers made an interesting observation. While summers recorded the highest snake bite numbers, spring showed the strongest link between temperatures and snake bites.</p>



<p>It's speculated this might be due to snakes becoming more active and reproducing in spring, while the heat of summer could potentially slow them down. Still, Scovronick admits this hypothesis requires further research.</p>



<p>Scovronick emphasized that this study didn't make future predictions about snake bite rates. However, he stressed the importance of conducting similar studies in other states to get a comprehensive view of the risk on a national level.</p>



<p>Scovronick believes even with modest data and the use of established epidemiological methods, significant insights can be gleaned about snake bite patterns.</p>



<p>However, it's important to note that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rattlesnakes-may-benefit-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher temperatures</a> in Georgia don't automatically mean an increase in hospital admissions due to snake bites.</p>



<h2>More education is key</h2>



<p>Co-author of the study and Emory University herpetologist, Lawrence Wilson, explains that the pivotal factor in mitigating these unfortunate encounters is education. By being aware of the favored habitats of snakes, such as areas with dense ground cover, people can take precautions.</p>



<p>"Snakes and people can live compatibly, even venomous snakes, as long as we respect and understand their habitats and needs,” says Wilson.</p>



<p>Still, the odds of human-snake encounters are on the rise. This unfortunate fact is fueled by the dual forces of climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snake-bites-kill-dogs-much-faster-than-cats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban expansion</a>.</p>



<p>Wilson notes, “As human development in Georgia and especially the Atlanta area are expanding rapidly, human-snake encounters are going to continue to increase and already have.”</p>



<p>While the study's specific findings pertain to Georgia, it underscores an urgent need for similar research in other regions with different climatic conditions and snake species, asserts Scovronick.</p>



<h2>More about venomous snakes</h2>



<p>Venomous snakes inhabit environments worldwide. They belong to a few key families: Viperidae, Elapidae, Hydrophiidae, and Atractaspididae.</p>



<p>These snakes use venom to immobilize their prey. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-provides-a-new-understanding-of-snake-venom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">venom</a> is a mix of proteins and enzymes, varying by species. Some venoms are neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system and potentially causing paralysis. Other venoms are cytotoxic or hemotoxic, causing tissue damage or disrupting blood clotting.</p>



<h3>How snakes use their venom</h3>



<p>Venomous snakes deliver their venom through specialized fangs. Vipers have long, foldable fangs, while elapids have shorter, fixed fangs.</p>



<p>The impact of a snake's bite depends on its species and size, the bite's location and depth, and the amount of venom injected.</p>



<h3>Venomous snake bites occur all around the world</h3>



<p>These snakes live across the globe, but they most densely populate warm, tropical regions. Many sport vivid colors and patterns as a warning to predators.</p>



<p>Usually, venomous snakes only bite humans when threatened. Most bites occur when humans inadvertently step on a snake or come too close, or when humans try to handle or kill the snake. Globally, snake bites kill tens of thousands annually, and many more suffer injuries.</p>



<h3>Behavior of venomous snakes</h3>



<p>Venomous snakes display interesting behaviors. For example, female rattlesnakes care for their newborns, and king cobras, the world's longest venomous snake, build nests for their eggs.</p>



<p>Scientists find medical potential in snake venom, with some components used in drugs treating high blood pressure, heart conditions, and diabetes.</p>



<p>The conservation status of venomous snakes varies by species and region. Some are common, while others are endangered due to habitat loss and persecution. Despite public fear and misunderstanding, venomous snakes play crucial roles in their ecosystems and need our respect and understanding.</p>

Venomous snake bites are more likely to occur in warmer weather

Climate change is turning up the heat in Georgia, and...

<p>In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified a new extinct species of small penguins that lived in New Zealand three million years ago. These creatures, described as "ridiculously cute," are ancestors of little penguins that continue to thrive today along the coasts of Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand.</p>



<p>After careful examination of two fossilized skulls - one belonging to an adult, the other to a juvenile - the researchers named the new species Wilson's little penguin. The study was published last month in the <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-paleontology/article/pliocene-fossils-support-a-new-zealand-origin-for-the-smallest-extant-penguins/A722D072F8EE3B5FC194A33EF7DBC47F"><em>Journal of Paleontology</em></a>.</p>



<p>According to Bob Yirka of Phys.org, the newly discovered species represents the oldest-known extinct little penguin. Given that the researchers have only the skulls of the extinct animals at their disposal - not their entire skeletons - certain details about the Wilson's little penguins remain uncertain.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-evolution-of-little-penguins">Evolution of little penguins&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers speculate that the size of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diving-birds-face-a-greater-risk-of-extinction/">birds</a> may have paralleled that of contemporary little penguins, standing approximately 13.5 inches tall and weighing around two pounds. </p>



<p>Notably, the experts found that the extinct penguins had somewhat narrower skulls compared to their modern counterparts.</p>



<p>The discovery of this ancient species broadens our understanding of the lineage and evolution of little penguins. The data suggest that we can trace back the origins of this avian group to New Zealand, or Aotearoa.</p>



<p>The relatively static nature of this penguin lineage, which has remained virtually unchanged despite significant environmental shifts over millions of years, is particularly intriguing. </p>



<p>Paleontologist Daniel Ksepka, a co-author of the study, discussed this surprising constancy in a recent <a href="https://fossilpenguins.wordpress.com/2023/06/26/a-tiny-fellow-joins-the-march-of-the-fossil-penguins/">blog post</a>.</p>



<p>Study co-author Daniel Thomas, a zoologist at New Zealand’s Massey University, emphasized the importance of this research in understanding the biodiversity and evolution of Aotearoa. </p>



<p>"This is important when thinking about the origins of these penguins, the evolution of the seabird diversity of Aotearoa, and the dynamic environment in which they live,” he stated. </p>



<p>Thomas drew attention to the changing climate throughout the penguins' long history, emphasizing that "this lineage has been robust to those changes."</p>



<h2 id="h-climate-concerns">Climate concerns</h2>



<p>The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categorizes today's little penguins as a species of "least concern," estimating that around 470,000 of these birds are still in existence.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, there are indications that climate change may be beginning to impact these hardy creatures. Instances of mass mortality events, such as the discovery of hundreds of starved or hypothermic little penguins on northern New Zealand coasts last summer, hint at a shifting balance.</p>



<p>Scientists link these fatalities to rising ocean surface temperatures, which drive fish - the penguins' primary food source - into deeper, cooler waters. Little penguins, despite being competent swimmers, are limited by their diving depth of 100 feet. This unfortunate limitation leaves them at risk of starvation.</p>



<p>Concerned about the impact of escalating global warming, researchers are studying past climate change patterns to predict the potential consequences for Zealandia's flora and fauna. The skulls of Wilson's little penguins are set to play a vital role in this investigation.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-biodiversity-forecast">Biodiversity forecast&nbsp;</h2>



<p>A team led by Alan Tennyson, the vertebrate curator at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa and a study co-author, will examine these fossils to gather data on the species that existed in warmer climates in the region's distant past.</p>



<p>This analysis forms the foundation for what Thomas describes to NZ Herald's Jamie Morton as a "biodiversity forecast." The researchers plan to use this ancient data to project potential future changes to the ecosystem as temperatures continue to rise.</p>



<p>"With millions of years of environmental change now being compressed into just a few human lifetimes, rising temperatures are enabling tropical animals to expand their ranges, leading to potentially irrevocable changes in wildlife communities in Aotearoa and other higher latitude locations,” Thomas told the NZ Herald.</p>



<p>The same research team recently made another significant discovery: they unearthed evidence of the largest-known penguin species on Earth. These colossal birds, weighing in at 340 pounds, roamed New Zealand approximately 50 million years ago.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-little-penguins">More about little penguins</h2>



<p>Little penguins, also known as blue penguins or fairy penguins, are native to the coastlines of southern Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand. In New Zealand, they are also known by the Maori name kororā. They are particularly well-known residents of Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia, where a popular tourist attraction, the Penguin Parade, allows visitors to observe their nightly return to shore from the sea.</p>



<p>Little penguins are monogamous and usually mate for life. They build their nests in burrows, under shrubs, or in crevices on the coastal mainland and islands. In these nests, they typically raise one to two chicks at a time, feeding them a diet of small fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans.</p>



<p>As nocturnal creatures, little penguins spend their days at sea hunting for food, and they come ashore after sunset. Despite their small size, they are surprisingly good swimmers and can dive up to about 100 feet deep when foraging for food.</p>



<p>While the discovery of the Wilson's little penguin has provided scientists with an invaluable glimpse into the evolutionary history of these charming birds, it also underscores the need for ongoing research and conservation efforts to ensure their survival in a rapidly changing world.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

Little penguins that once lived in New Zealand were ridiculously cute

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified a new extinct...

Global,Warming,-,The,City,,Barren,Land,And,Green,Meadow,

<p>Our cities are facing a hidden peril – a danger that has gone unnoticed and unstudied until now. It’s called underground climate change. This phenomenon is literally causing the ground beneath our urban areas to shift and deform, leading to significant damage in our infrastructure.</p>



<p>An unsettling study from <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a> reveals the existence of this lurking, silent hazard. As the earth beneath our cities heats up, it morphs and transforms.</p>



<p>This leads to unexpected and excessive movements in building foundations and the surrounding ground. It can even result in cracking.</p>



<p>The implications of this are profound, affecting the long-term operational performance and durability of our structures. It's becoming increasingly clear that previous building damages may have been caused by such rising temperatures. </p>



<p>Worryingly, this is not a problem that's going away. These issues are expected to persist and possibly even worsen in the coming years.</p>



<p>But, the study suggests, there could be a silver lining. While these underground temperature changes pose a threat to our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-infrastructure-found-in-most-key-biodiversity-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban infrastructure</a>, they also present a potential opportunity.</p>



<p>Waste heat from below ground level, given off by transportation systems, parking garages, and basement facilities, could be harnessed. This could help mitigate the impacts of underground climate change and simultaneously provide an untapped resource of thermal energy.</p>



<p>This groundbreaking study will be published on July 11, in the <a href="https://www.nature.com/commseng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Portfolio journal Communications Engineering</a>. This is the first-ever research to quantify the ground deformations caused by subsurface heat islands and their effect on civil infrastructure.</p>



<p>Leading the study is <a href="https://sites.northwestern.edu/rottaloria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alessandro Rotta Loria</a>. He is an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at Northwestern's <a href="https://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McCormick School of Engineering</a>.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-is-underground-climate-change">What is underground climate change?</h2>



<p>Loria explains the significance of this discovery, saying, “Underground climate change is a silent hazard. The ground is deforming as a result of temperature variations, and no existing civil structure or infrastructure is designed to withstand these variations."</p>



<p>He further notes that many cities, including Chicago, are facing an unseen threat due to this phenomenon.</p>



<p>"As a result of temperature increases underground, many foundations downtown are undergoing unwanted settlement, slowly but continuously,” says Loria. “In other words, you don’t need to live in Venice to live in a city that is sinking — even if the causes for such phenomena are completely different.”</p>



<p>Urban areas worldwide are facing a heating issue. Heat diffuses from buildings and underground transportation, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humidity-increases-urban-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming the ground</a> at an increasingly fast rate. Previous researchers have found that the shallow subsurface beneath cities warms by 0.1 to 2.5 degrees Celsius per decade.</p>



<p>This phenomenon, known as “underground climate change” or “subsurface heat islands,” is not only an ecological issue but also a health concern. However, the impact of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-the-best-option-to-reduce-the-urban-heat-island-effect/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underground heating</a> on our civil infrastructure has, until now, been largely overlooked.</p>



<h2 id="h-using-chicago-to-study-underground-climate-change">Using Chicago to study underground climate change</h2>



<p>Over the past few years, Rotta Loria and his team have been collecting temperature data using a wireless network of more than 150 temperature sensors across <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Geological-layers-beneath-the-Chicago-Loop_Credit-Northwestern-University.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chicago's Loop</a>. They compared these findings to the temperatures beneath Grant Park, a green space located away from buildings and transportation systems.</p>



<p>The results were startling, with temperatures beneath the Loop often being 10 degrees warmer. This heat diffusion places enormous stress on materials, causing them to expand and contract with the changing temperatures.</p>



<p>Based on their data, the researchers built a 3D computer model to simulate how ground temperatures have evolved since 1951. The findings were consistent with the field measurements.</p>



<p>The simulation was also used to predict how temperatures might change by the year 2051. Ground deformations in response to increasing temperatures were also modelled. The results showed that while some materials contract when heated, others expand.</p>



<h2 id="h-our-buildings-are-slowly-sinking">Our buildings are slowly sinking</h2>



<p>The simulation revealed that warmer temperatures could cause the ground to swell upward by as much as 12 millimeters or sink downward by as much as 8 millimeters.</p>



<p>Rotta Loria warned of the implications of these changes: “It’s very likely that underground climate change has already caused cracks and excessive foundation settlements that we didn’t associate with this phenomenon because we weren’t aware of it.”</p>



<p>He also suggested potential strategies to combat this issue. "The most effective and rational approach is to isolate underground structures in a way that the amount of wasted heat is minimal,” Rotta Loria said. </p>



<p>“If this cannot be done, then geothermal technologies offer the opportunity to efficiently absorb and reuse heat in buildings."</p>



<p>The researchers' work shines a light on an issue that's been literally underground, but the impact on our infrastructure could be profound. This "silent hazard" is one we need to acknowledge and address as we continue to build and evolve our cities.</p>



<p>With careful planning and innovative strategies, the threats posed by underground climate change can be mitigated, potentially offering new opportunities for energy efficiency.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-underground-climate-change">More about underground climate change</h2>



<p>Underground climate change is also known as "subsurface heat islands." It is a relatively new field of study that focuses on the impact of human activities on the temperature of the ground beneath urban areas.</p>



<p>This term is an extension of the more commonly known phenomenon of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/urban-heat-island/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban heat islands</a>, where urban regions are significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities.</p>



<p>The ground underneath cities absorbs and retains heat from various sources, including buildings, transport systems, industrial processes.</p>



<p>It also includes waste heat from basements and other subterranean facilities. Over time, the accumulation of this heat can lead to an increase in subsurface temperatures.</p>



<p>Here's what we know so far about underground climate change:</p>



<h3 id="h-causes">Causes</h3>



<p>Urbanization and industrialization have increased the amount of heat that is introduced into the subsurface environment.</p>



<p>Heat is generated by human activities such as transportation, manufacturing, heating, and cooling systems, and even simple daily tasks like cooking. It's also a result of the thermal properties of common construction materials which can absorb, store, and gradually release heat into the ground.</p>



<h3 id="h-effects-on-the-environment-and-infrastructure">Effects on the environment and infrastructure</h3>



<p>As the ground heats up, it expands, causing ground deformations. This can lead to instability in building foundations, causing them to crack or move. Over time, these changes can significantly affect the durability and operational performance of buildings and infrastructure. </p>



<p>In addition, the heating can change the characteristics of the soil and rock. These can affect underground water resources and lead to other environmental issues.</p>



<h3 id="h-health-and-ecological-impacts">Health and ecological impacts</h3>



<p>Subsurface heat islands can contribute to the overall urban heat island effect, exacerbating heatwaves in cities which can have serious health implications, such as heat stroke and respiratory problems. </p>



<p>The increase in temperature can also lead to ecological issues. These include changing the conditions for subterranean ecosystems and possibly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-ways-to-prevent-flooding-caused-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contaminating groundwater sources</a>.</p>



<h3 id="h-potential-for-energy-harnessing">Potential for energy harnessing</h3>



<p>Despite its threats, underground climate change also presents an opportunity. The heat generated can be captured and used as a source of geothermal energy. By harnessing this waste heat, it's possible to reduce the impact of underground climate change while providing a sustainable source of energy.</p>



<h3 id="h-solutions">Solutions</h3>



<p>Strategies to mitigate the impact of underground climate change can include urban planning measures to minimize heat generation, using materials with lower thermal conductivity in urban construction, improving the insulation of buildings, and capturing and using the waste heat.</p>



<p>Research into underground climate change is still relatively new, and much is still being discovered about its full impacts and potential mitigation strategies.</p>

Underground climate change: Silent hazard is destroying our buildings from beneath

Our cities are facing a hidden peril – a danger...

<p>By balancing effort with the possibility of risks and rewards, honey <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-brains-size/">bees</a> make extremely rapid and accurate assessments of which flowers are most likely to provide them high-quality food – an amazing capacity that emerged after millions of years of evolution, according to a new study led by the <a href="https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/">University of Sheffield</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers created a model of decision-making in bees and outlined the neural pathways that enable this capacity. As a result, the experts hope to enhance our understanding of both insect brains and how our own brains have evolved, while opening new pathways toward designing better robots.</p>



<p>“Decision-making is at the core of cognition,” said study senior author Andrew Barron, a professor of Biological Sciences at the <a href="https://www.mq.edu.au/">Macquarie University</a> in Australia. “It’s the result of an evaluation of possible outcomes, and animal lives are full of decisions. A honey bee has a brain smaller than a sesame seed. And yet she can make decisions faster and more accurately than we can. A robot programmed to do a bee’s job would need the back up of a supercomputer.”</p>



<p>“Today’s autonomous robots largely work with the support of remote computing. Drones are relatively brainless, they have to be in wireless communication with a data center. This technology path will never allow a drone to truly explore Mars solo – NASA’s amazing rovers on Mars have travelled about 75 kilometers in years of exploration.”</p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



<p>In their daily lives, bees are forced to work quickly and efficiently, finding nectar and returning it to their hives, while avoiding a variety of predators. To accomplish this, they need to make fast decisions regarding which flowers have nectar and what are the possible risks of predation while landing on these flowers.</p>



<p>“We trained 20 bees to recognize five different-colored ‘flower disks.’ Blue flowers always had sugar syrup. Green flowers always had quinine [tonic water] with a bitter taste for bees. Other colors sometimes had glucose,” explained lead author HaDi MaBouDi, a research fellow in Complex Systems at Sheffield.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Then we introduced each bee to a ‘garden’ where the ‘flowers’ just had distilled water. We filmed each bee then watched more than 40 hours of video, tracking the path of the bees and timing how long it took them to make a decision.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned</h2>



<p>The investigation revealed that, if the bees were confident that a flower would have food, they would quickly decide to land on it, taking an average of 0.6 seconds. Similarly, if they were confident that a flower would not have food, they would just as quickly decide not to land on it. However, if they were unsure, they would take much more time – approximately 1.4 seconds – to reach a decision.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Afterwards, the scientists built a computer model aiming to replicate the bees’ decision-making processes, and discovered that the structure of this model turned out to be very similar to the physical layout of a bee’s brain.</p>



<p>“Our study has demonstrated complex autonomous decision-making with minimal neural circuitry. Now that we know how bees make such smart decisions, we are studying how they are so fast at gathering and sampling information. We think bees are using their flight movements to enhance their visual system to make them better at detecting the best flowers,” Marshall explained.</p>



<p>Since millions of years of evolution have led to highly efficient brains with very low power requirements, AI researchers have much to learn in devising robots from insects and other “simple” animals. Thus, the future of AI is likely to be inspired by biology, according to Marshall, who is also the co-founder of <a href="https://opteran.com/">Opteran</a>, a company devising algorithms inspired by insect brains to make autonomous machines as robust and efficient as nature.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.86176"><em>eLife</em></a>.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-bee-brains">More about bee brains</h2>



<p>Despite having relatively small brains, bees have remarkable cognitive abilities. A bee's brain is capable of complex tasks like navigation, memory, and learning. Here are some notable aspects about the bee brain:</p>



<h3 id="h-structure">Structure</h3>



<p>A bee's brain is divided into different sections, each of which has a specific role. The mushroom bodies are responsible for sensory integration and learning, the antennal lobes are involved in olfaction (the sense of smell), and the optic lobes are responsible for visual processing.</p>



<h3 id="h-memory-and-learning">Memory and learning</h3>



<p>Bees are capable of associative learning, meaning they can associate certain smells or visual cues with rewards such as nectar. This ability is useful for remembering the locations of flowers. Bees have both short-term (a few seconds to minutes) and long-term memory (days to weeks), allowing them to remember the locations of food sources.</p>



<h3 id="h-navigation">Navigation</h3>



<p>Bees use a combination of path integration, landmark recognition, and even the sun's position in the sky to navigate. They can remember the direction and distance of their hive from a food source and communicate this information to other bees using a "waggle dance".</p>



<h3 id="h-communication">Communication</h3>



<p>Bees are also capable of sophisticated forms of communication. The most famous example is the waggle dance, which they use to tell other bees the direction and distance to a food source. The angle of the dance relative to the vertical indicates the direction relative to the sun, and the duration of the waggle phase indicates the distance.</p>



<h3 id="h-number-sense">Number sense</h3>



<p>Recent studies suggest that bees even have a basic understanding of numerical concepts. They can be trained to recognize colors representing specific quantities, and to choose between different numbers of shapes or symbols.</p>



<h3 id="h-problem-solving">Problem solving</h3>



<p>Bees have shown the ability to solve complex problems. For example, some studies have shown that bees can learn to pull a string or push a ball to receive a reward, demonstrating an understanding of cause and effect.</p>



<p>It's important to note that while bees show these remarkable abilities, their brains are fundamentally different from human brains. They have evolved to be incredibly efficient at performing specific tasks necessary for their survival and reproduction, but they don't have the same general intelligence that humans do. The study of bee brains and behavior can provide fascinating insights into how complex cognitive processes can emerge from relatively simple neural structures.</p>



<p>—-</p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com"><em>Andrei Ionescu</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>



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

Bees make incredibly fast decisions - with a brain smaller than a sesame seed

By balancing effort with the possibility of risks and rewards,...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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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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