Natural,Environment,Climate-neutral,Long-term,Emissions,Strategy,Net,Zero,2050,Carbon

Balancing cleaner air with rising incomes is not a luxury question for developing countries. It is a real-world, and real-life, policy problem that shapes health, jobs, and the future of their cities.



A new <a href="https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/S0217590825500304" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> lays out when zero emissions can go hand in hand with steady <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-will-cut-world-gdp-by-a-staggering-40-percent-if-nothing-changes/">growth</a>, even when governments rely on foreign aid.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zero-emissions-and-economic-growth">Zero emissions and economic growth</h2>



The work comes from <a href="https://tus.elsevierpure.com/en/persons/hideo-noda" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hideo Noda</a> at the Tokyo University of Science (<a href="https://www.tus.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TUS</a>) with coauthor Fengqi Fang, a Ph.D. candidate in Business Administration from the Graduate School of Business Administration at TUS. 



The team builds a simple but testable way to check if a country can hit zero net <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-trade-is-fueling-a-dangerous-rise-in-methane-emissions/">emissions</a> while its economy keeps expanding.



They also verify the model numerically using real world style parameters so it is not just a chalkboard exercise. 



The paper connects theory to a specific United Nations target on decoupling growth from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/limiting-global-warming-to-1-5c-is-almost-certainly-out-of-reach/">environmental damage</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zero-emissions-models">Zero emissions models</h2>



First, the authors define a zero-emissions <a href="https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/net-zero-coalition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">policy</a> as keeping net pollution at zero at every point in time, by matching abatement to emissions. That requires money, technology, and clear rules to assign who pays.



They run two versions of the economy. 



One is a public goods <a href="https://scholar.harvard.edu/files/stantcheva/files/lecture8.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">model</a> where government services like roads or schools lift private production for everyone at once, a standard growth <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/261726" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">model</a> introduced by Robert Barro in 1990. 



The second adds <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-will-climate-change-hit-hardest-global-index-reveals-vulnerability/">congestion</a>, where more people share the same public services so the boost per person shrinks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimum-income-rule">Minimum income rule</h2>



The key test is whether gross domestic product (<a href="https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GDP.PCAP.CD" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GDP</a>) per capita rises above a minimum income threshold so a country can fully clean what it emits. 



The authors call this the kindergarten rule level of abatement, as in: “clean-up what you make dirty.”



"Following the Kindergarten rule means implementing zero emission technologies in either finite time or asymptotically," noted M. Scott Taylor and William Brock in their related <a href="https://www.nber.org/papers/w9597" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>. 



This frame anchors the new threshold concept for developing countries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aid-supports-clean-income-growth">Aid supports clean income growth</h2>



Many low income governments fund services with official development assistance (<a href="https://www.oecd.org/en/topics/policy-issues/official-development-assistance-oda.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ODA</a>), so the model lets outside aid pay for both cleaning and public services. 



That design reflects classic work showing how aid aimed at productive public services can shift long run growth.



In related <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304387806000290" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theory</a>, flexible labor and aid tied to public capital influence the path of output and welfare. The new paper extends this logic to pollution control that must be paid for every year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-income-threshold">Changing income threshold</h2>



The threshold depends on clean technology, population size, and how much aid is fixed to environmental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expanding-oil-and-gas-fields-threaten-global-climate-goals/">uses</a>. Better abatement technology lowers the income bar because each dollar of cleanup removes more pollution.



Population matters differently across the two models. In the public goods case, a larger labor force can raise growth because services scale with the economy, while in the congestion case that scale effect drops out as services get diluted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taxes-and-zero-emissions-targets">Taxes and zero emissions targets</h2>



The model also looks at tax policy, focusing on a labor income tax that finances services. 



There is a tax rate that maximizes the growth of income per person, and under both models governments can reach the needed income threshold in finite time if they choose that growth maximizing rate.



Public services that complement private capital are the link. When governments tax and spend on those services efficiently, private firms produce more and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-action-economies-can-grow-while-cutting-emissions/">economy climbs</a> to the income level that makes full abatement feasible.



"Both models indicate that implementing the zero-emissions policy is compatible with sustainable economic growth," wrote Noda. 



They also show the kindergarten rule threshold is higher with congestion than without it, so crowding of public services slows the crossing.



"We call this threshold the kindergarten rule level of pollution abatement in terms of GDP per capita," wrote Noda. The result gives policymakers a clear income target, not just a slogan about decoupling.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-income-growth-and-sdgs">Income growth and SDGs</h2>



Target 8.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals (<a href="https://www.undp.org/sustainable-development-goals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SDGs</a>) asks countries to decouple growth from environmental degradation. 



The authors argue their framework helps explain when that is possible in practice, and how policy levers change the timing.



The UN defines the <a href="https://metadata.un.org/sdg/8.4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">target</a> as improving resource efficiency and decoupling growth from environmental harm through 2030. The paper’s threshold view fits that mandate with a concrete yardstick.



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



Earlier <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652621009112" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work</a> in the same research stream focused on developed, innovation-driven economies and showed that zero emissions could be achieved alongside continued growth. 



That study examined whether sustained economic expansion could occur while also maintaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-net-zero-world-will-require-75-trillion-of-investment-and-1-billion-electric-cars/">zero net pollution emissions</a>.



The new paper shows the same compatibility can hold in aid dependent settings where innovation is not the main growth engine. 



That extension fills a real gap, because many low income countries face tighter fiscal and technological limits.



Build or buy cleaner technology so the threshold falls. Treat tied aid for environmental programs as a growth tool and not just a cost center.



Set tax policy to raise the growth rate of income per person, then sustain it long enough to pass the threshold. Guard against congestion by scaling services with population, so gains are not diluted.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/S0217590825500304" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Singapore Economic Review</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Net-zero emissions and rising income levels can both be achieved simultaneously

Balancing cleaner air with rising incomes is not a luxury question for developing countries. It is a real-world, and real-life, policy problem that shapes health, jobs, and the future of their cities. A new study lays out when zero emissions can go hand in hand with steady growth, even when governments rely on foreign aid. Zero emissions and economic growth The work comes from Hideo Noda at the Tokyo University of Science (TUS) with coauthor Fengqi Fang, a Ph.D. candidate in Business Administration from the Graduate School...

New data suggests that Earth's ability to store water on land is weakening. Researchers find that water stored in soil, lakes, rivers, and snow is not being replenished as it was in the past.



These findings link directly to the increasing heat of our planet. 



They point to urgent concerns about farmland productivity and hint at bigger changes for our global water cycle, says <a href="https://www.unimelb.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Melbourne</a> hydrology professor <a href="https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/profile/190536-dongryeol-ryu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dongryeol Ryu</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-earth-s-land-water-the-basics">Understanding Earth's land water - the basics</h2>



Earth’s land water storage is like nature’s own savings account for fresh water. It includes all the water stored in soil moisture, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-driven-climate-change-is-to-blame-for-sharp-snowpack-declines-since-1980/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowpack</a>, glaciers, wetlands, lakes, and underground aquifers. 



Unlike rivers that constantly move water, these sources act more like reservoirs - holding water in place until it either evaporates, gets absorbed by plants, or seeps deeper underground. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-water-day-2025-preserving-glaciers-protecting-our-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The water cycle</a> keeps everything in motion, but land storage helps balance the supply, especially during dry spells or droughts.



Over the years, human activity has been tipping that balance. 



We’re pumping groundwater faster than nature can refill it, draining wetlands for development, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glacier-melting-threatens-global-water-supplies-and-coastal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shrinking glaciers</a> through climate change. 



These changes hit hardest in places that rely on stored water for drinking, farming, and industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storms-no-longer-replenish-land-water">Storms no longer replenish land water</h2>



Scientists confirm that the land has lost elasticity. Even when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-floods-its-not-just-about-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">major storms strike</a>, groundwater reservoirs do not replenish to earlier levels.



Some of this shift traces back to rising global temperatures. The extra heat boosts <a href="https://www.carbonbrief.org/global-soil-moisture-in-permanent-decline-due-to-climate-change" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil moisture loss</a> as well as causing crops to demand more water.



<a href="https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/overview-greenhouse-gases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenhouse gases</a> continue to trap heat in the atmosphere, which intensifies drying. 



"Because greenhouse gases will continue to cause global warming well into the future, the rate of evaporation and transpiration is not likely to reduce any time soon," explained <a href="https://air.arizona.edu/person/katharine-jacobs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Katharine Jacobs</a>, a <a href="https://www.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a> professor of environmental science who was not part of the study. 



“At first we thought, ‘That's an error in the model,'” said Ryu. The research relies on multiple data sources for <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq6529" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">validation</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-soil-and-farmland">Impacts on soil and farmland</h2>



Agriculture faces a tightrope act. Farmers often rely on underground reserves that are not recharging, and officials have warned that new stressors on irrigation will hamper food production. 



Meanwhile, the researchers emphasize that too much water is being taken out of these hidden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-fueling-a-global-water-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reservoirs</a>.



Dry soil magnifies heat and reduces plant growth in a cycle that is hard to break. Even sudden deluges cannot fix a long-term groundwater deficit.



This imbalance ties to the broader climate situation. As Ryu and his team reveal, the system is shifting in ways that may not be reversed quickly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-water-loss-shifts-ocean-patterns">Land water loss shifts ocean patterns</h2>



Less water on land means more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fog-harvesting-could-ease-water-shortages-in-the-worlds-driest-places/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> in the ocean. This extra ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-appears-to-have-a-secret-liquid-phase/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> nudges sea levels ever upward. 



This means that coastal communities stand at greater risk of flooding. Many scientists see this as a sign that water management and carbon policies must adapt.



Changes in where water pools also lead to a different distribution of mass on Earth. That small shift has subtle consequences for global ocean currents.



Although climate records point to gradual warming since the time of the <a href="https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/climate-change-global-temperature" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Industrial Revolution</a>, the recent and more rapid warming amplifies the trend of land water loss and raises questions about safety for coastal populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-from-polar-shifts">Clues from polar shifts</h2>



Experts have detected a slight wobble in Earth's rotation. The new <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adw5851" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> verifies that declining land water drives this wobble.&nbsp;



“When I read this thing, I was very excited,” said <a href="https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=38094" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luis Samaniego</a>, a professor of hydrology and data science at the University of Potsdam. Such a wobble may seem small, but it points to sweeping changes in the distribution of mass.&nbsp;



He describes the findings as a wake-up call. This signal reveals a potential permanent shift in how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-might-have-formed-long-before-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> travels across the planet.



Land storage and polar motion are intertwined. Altering one can trigger a cascade of effects in atmospheric and oceanic systems.



Samaniego notes that ignoring these indicators is risky. He warns that deeper crises might unfold unless water consumption patterns change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-toward-solutions">Looking toward solutions</h2>



The research underscores the urgency to protect our water resources. Reducing greenhouse emissions is a central step in slowing this drying trend.



Better irrigation practices can ease the burden on underground reservoirs, but dry spells will keep escalating unless efforts to reduce overuse gain momentum. 



Some regions have started adopting water-smart agriculture to limit waste. Others are raising public awareness about the fragile balance between supply and demand.



Scientists believe that collaboration among policymakers, farmers, and communities could avert the worst outcomes. 



People are searching for ways to tap into technology and policy changes without straining natural ecosystems.



Ryu remains hopeful that actions taken now can mitigate further damage. The next steps depend on stricter water allocation rules and careful monitoring of weather extremes.



Tracking how water moves between land and ocean is critical for future resilience. Ongoing research will hopefully reveal fresh insights to guide the management of this precious resource.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adw5851" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Earth's land-based water storage has drastically diminished and it's not being replaced

New data suggests that Earth's ability to store water on...

The image of a cold Coca-Cola bottle on a summer day is iconic. But behind that image lies an escalating crisis. By 2030, Coca-Cola’s plastic waste could reach 1.33 billion pounds annually in oceans and waterways. 



That staggering figure comes from a new analysis by <a href="https://oceana.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oceana</a>, a nonprofit focused on marine protection. The weight is enough to fill the stomachs of 18 million whales. 



It’s not just a problem of pollution anymore. It’s a symptom of unchecked growth and a warning sign of deeper environmental neglect.



The report lands at a time when microplastics have become nearly impossible to ignore. These tiny particles now <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-currents-may-soon-clean-up-waste-thanks-to-space-tech/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infiltrate ecosystems</a>, drinking water, and even human organs. Their presence is no longer surprising. 



What shocks scientists now is how quickly they’ve become a global threat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-risks-hidden-in-every-sip">Health risks hidden in every sip</h2>



The spread of microplastics brings real health concerns. Researchers increasingly link <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-scientists-are-using-air-to-recycle-plastic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic particles</a> to cancer, infertility, and cardiovascular problems. 



As plastic breaks down in the ocean, it doesn’t disappear - it transforms into particles small enough to enter the human body. The food chain, starting from marine life, now carries traces of our packaging choices.



"<a href="https://www.coca-colacompany.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coca-Cola</a> is by far the largest manufacturer and seller of beverages in the world. Because of that, they really matter when it comes to the impact of all this on the ocean," said Matt Littlejohn, who leads Oceana's campaigns targeting corporate polluters.



That impact, as recent data show, is no longer hypothetical. It’s measurable, predictable, and expanding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coca-cola-leads-plastic-pollution-rankings">Coca-Cola leads plastic pollution rankings</h2>



Coca-Cola ranks first among the world’s top plastic polluters. This ranking comes from a 2024 study published in Science Advances. 



Following closely behind are other major players like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pepsico.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PepsiCo</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nestle.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nestlé</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.danone.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Danone</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.altria.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Altria</a>.&nbsp;Oceana&nbsp;used Coca-Cola’s own public data, from 2018 to 2023, and combined it with future sales projections. The picture it paints is not optimistic.



If current trends continue, Coca-Cola will exceed 4.13 million metric tonnes of plastic use per year by 2030. That translates to over 9.1 billion pounds of plastic annually. 



Using a peer-reviewed method published in the journal Science, researchers estimate that 1.33 billion of those pounds will end up in aquatic ecosystems. That equals nearly 220 billion half-liter plastic bottles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insufficient-efforts-by-coca-cola">Insufficient efforts by Coca-Cola </h2>



Reusable packaging once appeared to be Coca-Cola’s answer to this crisis. In 2022, the company declared that reusable packaging was "among the most effective ways to reduce waste." 



They even announced a target: 25% of all packaging would be reusable by 2030. But in December 2024, that pledge vanished from their sustainability roadmap.



Instead of reuse, Coca-Cola’s current strategy focuses on recycling and collection. While those efforts sound helpful, environmental experts see them as insufficient. 



Recycling, especially when dealing with thin single-use plastic, often costs more energy than it saves. And worse, it shifts the burden from corporations to consumers.



"Recycling is great, don't get me wrong," said Littlejohn. "But if you're going to use recycled <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-treaty-is-a-historic-opportunity-to-stop-a-human-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> to produce more single-use plastic, that's a problem."



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



The value of reusable packaging lies in its durability. A single glass bottle can be reused up to 50 times. Thicker PET plastic containers allow up to 25 uses before needing replacement. 



Each reuse reduces plastic waste, production emissions, and energy use. Despite this, major brands like Coca-Cola continue to push for recycling as the primary solution.



The company’s quiet withdrawal from its reuse goals weakens global efforts to reduce plastic output. Refillable systems demand infrastructure and planning, but they offer a long-term way out of the plastic loop. 



Recycling, in contrast, often serves as a short-term patch on a broken system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coca-cola-s-plastic-use-and-climate-change">Coca-Cola’s plastic use and climate change</h2>



Plastic is not just a litter issue. It’s a carbon issue. Nearly all plastic is made from fossil fuels. That means every bottle contributes to climate change - from its production to its disposal.



The connection between plastic waste and rising global temperatures grows stronger with each report. Companies that produce single-use plastic on a massive scale add to both crises: environmental and climatic.



Yet Coca-Cola has shown that change is possible. In several countries, they already operate large-scale refillable systems. Brazil, Germany, Nigeria, and even regions in the United States, like southern Texas, have adopted these models.



"They have the largest reusable infrastructure of any beverage company, and they have the ability to grow that and show the way for the rest of the industry," said Littlejohn.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-will-coca-cola-follow-through">Will Coca-Cola follow through?</h2>



Coca-Cola says it's still invested in refillable options. In a statement to AFP, a spokesperson shared: "We have been investing and remain committed to expand our refillable packaging options, and this work will continue as part of our consumer-centric strategy."



The words suggest hope, but critics remain skeptical. Without public targets or timelines, such promises risk becoming just another footnote in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/surprise-study-some-scientists-call-for-halting-ocean-plastic-cleanup-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">growing crisis</a>. 



Real progress demands transparency and follow-through. The oceans are already paying the price of delay.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convenience-vs-commitment">Convenience vs. commitment</h2>



Coca-Cola, with its vast global reach, has the tools to drive real change. The company’s influence over supply chains, consumer habits, and industry trends makes it a key player in solving the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-it-still-possible-to-save-the-ocean-from-plastic-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic crisis</a>. 



But leadership requires more than statements. It needs bold decisions that value long-term sustainability over short-term gain.



Recycling is not enough. The solution lies in reuse, reduction, and rethinking how beverage packaging works. As the world grapples with rising plastic levels and declining ocean health, Coca-Cola stands at a crossroads. 



What it chooses next could define its legacy - for better or worse.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Coca-Cola is on pace to dump 1.3 billion pounds of plastic into our oceans each year

The image of a cold Coca-Cola bottle on a summer...

Many researchers fear the world is on track to surpass the 1.5°C average temperature rise target of the <a href="https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paris Agreement</a> within the next ten years. The escalating concern has sparked heated debates about climate justice, responsibility, carbon debt, and what must happen once we cross that line.



“As we near the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C limit, the question is not just about when we will exceed it, but also how we collectively deal with the consequences in the subsequent period,” said <a href="https://iiasa.ac.at/staff/setu-pelz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Setu Pelz</a>, a researcher in the Transformative Institutional and Social Solutions Research Group (<a href="https://iiasa.ac.at/programs/ece/tiss" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TISS</a>).



Pelz is the lead author on a recent study that considers who will be held responsible once this threshold temperature is crossed, and how nations should act to restore temperatures to below the agreed-upon level. 



”To guide efforts that minimize overshoot and establish who should pay for harms caused during this period, we measure who is responsible and to what extent, under a range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scenarios</a> and approaches,” explained Pelz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-owes-carbon-debt-and-why">Who owes carbon debt and why</h2>



<a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2409316122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Net-zero carbon debt</a> focuses on the idea of shared but uneven responsibilities for historical and future emissions. It tracks how much a region’s cumulative emissions overshoot its fair share of the remaining global carbon budget.



Fair share <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166046220302817" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calculations</a> consider aspects like population size and past pollution levels. This approach highlights how some high-income regions have used far more of the planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon budget</a> than others over the decades. 



It suggests that when those regions finally reach <a href="https://netzeroclimate.org/what-is-net-zero-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">net-zero CO2</a>, any excess emissions become their debt.



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



<a href="https://www.overshootcommission.org/overshoot" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate overshoot</a> is what happens when global temperatures temporarily rise above a key threshold before returning below it. 



Researchers point out that even a short period of overshoot can intensify severe heatwaves, droughts, and other extreme events.



Communities with fewer resources are particularly vulnerable, as they often lack adequate funding for adaptation and recovery. 



That vulnerability compounds the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-constantly-reshuffling-earths-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">injustice</a> of overshoot, prompting discussions about financial support and technology transfers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-debt-responsibilities">Carbon debt responsibilities</h2>



Wealthy regions are under pressure to reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-climate-shift-sheds-light-on-future-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> quickly to prevent further burden on younger generations. 



Failure to achieve significant cuts raises the likelihood that future residents will pay for large-scale carbon removal <a href="https://climeworks.com/plant-orca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">projects</a>.



Those technological solutions, such as direct air capture, may still be expensive and underdeveloped. 



If wealthier regions do not act now, their own grandchildren could end up bearing both the physical risks of climate change and the enormous costs of repairing the damage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emerging-economies-risk-carbon-debt">Emerging economies risk carbon debt</h2>



Some emerging economies argue they should still be allowed to develop their industries and infrastructure using available energy sources. 



Many stress that older industrialized nations built their prosperity through decades of unchecked fossil fuel use.



Still, these newer economies also face the possibility of carbon debt if their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> exceed a fair slice of the remaining budget. 



That means efforts to maintain economic growth while minimizing emissions have become a critical challenge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-youth-and-the-cost-of-inaction">Youth and the cost of inaction</h2>



Young people in high-emitting countries often stand at the intersection of excess responsibility and increased climate hazards. 



They inherit a world that is already struggling with warming, yet they also face the potential duty of massive carbon removal initiatives later in life.



Communities in lower-emitting countries also harbor many young people. They may not be saddled with the same carbon debt, but they confront heightened exposure to heatwaves, floods, and storms made worse by overshoot.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooperation-and-climate-finance">Cooperation and climate finance</h2>



International collaboration is often viewed as an essential piece of closing the emissions gap. Some regions might find quick, cost-efficient ways to scale renewable energy, but others may need financial help.



Such support could come in the form of grants, debt relief, or technology transfer. Without it, developing nations that are low emitters could find themselves raising emissions just to meet basic needs, which prolongs temperature overshoot and spreads harm worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-carbon-removal-fix-damage">Can carbon removal fix damage?</h2>



A central question is whether future carbon removals can fully compensate for present emissions. 



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08020-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evidence</a> suggests net-negative emissions can help draw temperatures back down over time, but the scientific details are still being studied.



Some climate <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S221209632100108X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">models</a> assume large-scale carbon removal will happen toward the end of the century. That assumption creates moral and practical dilemmas, since it may place trust in expensive or unproven solutions. 



Meanwhile, people living today continue to emit carbon in ways that add to future debt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-domestic-feasibility-and-fairness">Domestic feasibility and fairness</h2>



Experts emphasize the importance of separating cost-neutral strategies from those that need extra funding. 



<a href="https://www.weforum.org/stories/2022/03/solar-wind-power-renewable-energy-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Measures</a> like energy efficiency or low-cost solar and wind projects can often pay for themselves quickly.



Other strategies, such as developing advanced carbon capture technologies, typically require heavy investment and international support. 



Regions expected to accumulate large carbon debts might need to ramp up these efforts much sooner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead">Looking ahead</h2>



<a href="https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/cop29" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Discussions</a> about net-zero carbon debt highlight a new level of transparency in climate negotiations. 



Instead of merely counting total emissions, stakeholders can monitor which countries and generations owe the most to keep global warming at a safe level.



Scientists and analysts propose that clearer guidelines on responsibility can spark solutions that bridge nations and generations. 



While it will not be easy, such coordination could speed up the timeline for bringing global temperatures back below critical thresholds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fair-recovery-must-address-carbon-debt">Fair recovery must address carbon debt</h2>



The carbon debt framework may offer a path to greater clarity on funding and technology sharing. It could guide how to distribute the burdens of overshoot so that the regions that contributed the most take on a fair share of the cost.



No matter the chosen approach, the evidence underscores a need for immediate, collective steps to limit further warming. 



Significant delays risk locking in more serious harm and piling up debts that future societies must confront.



A global drive toward higher ambition can still soften the worst impacts. Yet the longer we wait, the bigger the carbon debt becomes, and the tougher it will be to settle that bill.



Younger generations stand to lose the most in a warming world. If we want to prevent staggering climate costs down the road, deep cuts and bold collaboration must start now.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2409316122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

"Carbon debt" proposal assigns responsibility to countries that break climate pledges

Many researchers fear the world is on track to surpass...

Climate change is reshaping our planet, and lakes are not spared from its effects. Many people worry about vanishing ice caps or dying coral reefs, but shrinking oxygen levels in freshwater may be an equally serious concern.



In recent study led by Professor Shi Kun and Professor Zhang Yunlin from the <a href="http://english.niglas.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology</a>, a team of researchers set out to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming trends</a> affect more than 15,000 lakes across the world. 



The findings point to a steep drop in dissolved oxygen in over four-fifths of these lakes.



"A widespread decline in dissolved oxygen (DO) has been observed in rivers, temperate lakes, and oceans, yet the impacts of climatic warming on global lake deoxygenation remain unclear," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-changes-in-lake-oxygen">Understanding changes in lake oxygen</h2>



Lake water holds oxygen that fish, plants, and other organisms need. The oxygen usually comes from contact with the atmosphere or from photosynthesis. Warmer conditions reduce how much oxygen water can contain, and shorter winters mean less cold water mixing from top to bottom.



The researchers noticed that lake oxygen loss is occurring even faster than what’s been recorded in oceans or rivers. The results of the study suggest that around 55% of surface oxygen decline in lakes is tied to rising temperature, while nutrient overloads, also called <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26666217/">eutrophication</a>, explain about 10 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-heat-waves-raise-concerns">Why heat waves raise concerns</h2>



Short bursts of hot weather affect lakes differently than year-round warming. A recent <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adt5369">analysis</a> found that temperatures soaring above normal speed boost oxygen loss by about 7% to 8%. More frequent heat waves could intensify these patterns and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-waters-have-an-unexpected-impact-on-fish-size/">harm fish</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-waters-have-an-unexpected-impact-on-fish-size/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> </a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-waters-have-an-unexpected-impact-on-fish-size/">populations</a> in unexpected ways.



Some areas seem more vulnerable because they already deal with high nutrient levels and thick algae growth. In these places, sudden temperature spikes push oxygen even lower.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-on-aquatic-life-and-beyond">Impacts on aquatic life and beyond</h2>



Fish and other animals suffer when oxygen dips below critical levels. <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aam7240">Low-oxygen zones</a> reduce habitat space, affect breeding cycles, and sometimes kill entire populations of sensitive species. Large fish die-offs draw headlines, but even smaller organisms and plants feel the strain.



Local communities may see declines in water quality, too. Murky, low-oxygen water can encourage bacterial blooms and alter the taste and smell of drinking water. Economic repercussions often follow, especially in regions relying on tourism or commercial fishing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-twists-in-tropical-lakes">Surprising twists in tropical lakes</h2>



Scientists highlight that warming might boost the photosynthetic processes in some tropical lakes. Oxygen produced by algae in these warm spots can offset some of the losses that are tied to reduced <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg2/">solubility</a>. 



Still, conditions are unpredictable. Dense algae blooms can surge, then suddenly die off, leaving behind decomposing matter and driving oxygen levels down.



This seesaw effect keeps scientists on alert. In some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-climate-changes-have-drastic-effects-on-tropical-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical zones</a>, the balance temporarily tilts toward higher oxygen from heavy algae growth. Over time, these blooms can trigger more harm than good if they deplete oxygen once they begin to decay.



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



Experts point out that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-at-risk-climate-change-is-diminishing-global-water-quality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">declining oxygen</a> in freshwater could worsen greenhouse gas emissions. When lakes lack adequate oxygen, they can release more methane and nitrous oxide, gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. That creates a feedback loop, leading to more warming and further declines in oxygen.



Local economies also face pressures. Regions that depend on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fishing-communities-cooperate-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> might see less catch and more restrictions on harvests. If oxygen-starved waters become common, aquatic diversity could shrink, and entire food webs might shift.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-do-we-go-from-here">Where do we go from here</h2>



Researchers stress that reversing some trends might be challenging, but there is room for action. Better nutrient management is a top priority. <a href="https://krakensense.com/blog/agricultural-runoff">Agricultural runoff</a> can be minimized with smarter fertilizer use, and communities can invest in wastewater treatments.



Heat waves are expected to become more frequent in the coming decades, so improved forecasting could help local managers plan for temperature spikes that may affect oxygen levels. 



Protecting watersheds with efforts such as tree planting and wetland restoration can also buffer lakes against the hazards of warming.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adt5369">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to </a><a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/"> newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Climate shock: Lakes are losing oxygen faster than expected

Climate change is reshaping our planet, and lakes are not...

As climate change reshapes landscapes across the world, native species face growing challenges. 



Rising temperatures, altered water flows, and shifting ecosystems already disrupt many habitats. At the same time, biological invasions involving non-native species that move into new areas introduce added stress.



Until now, these two threats have mostly been studied in isolation. However, recent work by researchers at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> suggests that combining these forces reveals deeper risks.



Native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-plants-cant-outrun-climate-change-on-their-own/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> may lose more than just space - they may face extinction under the pressure of both climate and invaders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threat-to-native-species">Threat to native species</h2>



The study, published in the journal Global Change Biology, begins to close the gap between climate science and invasion biology.



“Climate change and biological invasions are increasingly affecting ecosystems globally,” said Ivan Arismendi, an associate professor in Oregon State’s Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences. 



“It’s critical to understand their combined impacts so that we can anticipate and adapt management strategies that account for shifting interactions between native and non-native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-places-are-prime-targets-for-invasive-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>.”



The team focused on freshwater fish species in the Pacific Northwest, where warming waters and shifting rivers have changed aquatic habitats. Arismendi and his colleagues, Guillermo Giannico and Arif Jan, developed ecological niche models.



These models use environmental data to predict where species might live under current and future conditions. Their goal was to understand how overlapping habitats could intensify threats to native fish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warming-forces-fish-to-higher-ground">Warming forces fish to higher ground</h2>



The researchers studied two invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/non-native-species-are-spreading-at-an-exponential-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>, namely smallmouth bass and northern pike, and two native species, the redband trout and bull trout.



These fish currently occupy different regions, but warming climates are pushing them all toward higher elevations, where colder water remains. Unfortunately, this movement may force them into closer contact, with serious consequences.



“Cold water refuges in upstream areas will serve as converging zones for native and non-native fishes,” said Jan, a doctoral student at Oregon State. 



“Past research has documented predatory interactions toward salmonids by smallmouth bass and northern pike, where their habitat overlaps. This means potential year-round predation and competition pressures during the early life stages of salmonids.”



The team found that future climate conditions will reduce suitable habitats for all four species. But more alarming was the increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-non-native-species-are-saving-themselves-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat</a> overlap. In these shared zones, invasive species may outcompete or prey upon native ones, pushing already vulnerable populations closer toward collapse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-native-species-disappear-invasives-take-over">Native species disappear, invasives take over</h2>



This situation is not hypothetical. Similar patterns have already emerged in places like southeastern Alaska, where native salmonids have disappeared from areas invaded by northern pike. 



The combination of climate-driven <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/freshwater-crisis-one-in-four-species-faces-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat</a> loss and biological pressure creates a dangerous feedback loop. As conditions worsen, natives lose the space and time they need to adapt or recover.



The implications of this research reach beyond the Pacific Northwest. As temperatures rise and weather patterns shift globally, many regions will experience similar overlaps between native and non-native species. 



The model developed by Oregon State researchers can help other scientists and managers assess risks elsewhere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planning-with-smarter-conservation-tools">Planning with smarter conservation tools</h2>



“This study highlights the need for integrated management strategies that address both direct and indirect effects of interactions among species,” said Giannico, a professor of fisheries at Oregon State. 



He emphasized that the framework used in this study is simple and cost-effective. It can help conservation teams prioritize areas for early detection of invasive species and focus resources where they are most needed.



Rather than reacting to individual threats, this new approach allows planners to anticipate problems before they escalate. It opens the door to broader ecological forecasting, where climate models and biological data work together. With better tools, conservation can become more proactive and efficient.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-challenges-and-an-uncertain-future">Growing challenges and an uncertain future</h2>



While the study deals with fish, its lessons apply across ecosystems. Forests, grasslands, and wetlands all face pressure from changing climates and invasive species. 



As these challenges grow, species will shift, compete, and in some cases, vanish. Understanding how these forces interact gives us a chance to intervene.



The Oregon State researchers offer a glimpse of a future that is both uncertain and urgent. Their work reminds us that climate change does not act alone. It invites disruption. When non-native species follow, the result can be devastating. 



But with clear science and thoughtful planning, we may still help native species survive the changes ahead.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.70040" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Native fish species are facing 'double trouble'

As climate change reshapes landscapes across the world, native species...

Snowpack in the Rocky Mountains acts like nature’s reservoir. It stores water during winter and supplies the American West through dry months. But snow now brings more than just water. 



A new study from <a href="https://www.dri.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Desert Research Institute</a> reveals that as storms deliver snow, they also transport mercury and other mining-related pollutants.



This work sheds light on how contaminants travel through the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rain-and-snow-are-difficult-to-forecast-at-near-freezing-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a>. It raises concerns about both snowpack quality and long-term environmental consequences from mining operations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toxic-metals-found-in-snow">Toxic metals found in snow</h2>



Published in Environmental Pollution, the study measured metal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-snow-complexity-can-improve-winter-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contaminants</a> at nearly 50 sites across the Rockies. Researchers found elevated levels of mercury, zinc, cadmium, and antimony. These metals appeared most concentrated in the northern Rockies.



The likely source? Storms that originated in the Pacific Northwest, Idaho, and Montana — regions with a long mining history. Using storm-tracking techniques, the team followed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-driven-climate-change-is-to-blame-for-sharp-snowpack-declines-since-1980/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a> to pinpoint these sources.



“Metal pollution in the Rockies is relatively understudied,” Arienzo said. “Other studies have focused on certain parts, so the fact that we have this transect from Montana to New Mexico makes this study unique.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-snow-and-the-power-to-melt">Dust, snow, and the power to melt</h2>



While the contamination remains below EPA limits, the concern isn’t just toxicity. Dust from mining regions reduces snow’s reflectivity, causing it to melt faster. This changes how much water communities get and when they get it.



Beyond snowmelt timing, the study’s value lies in understanding atmospheric pollutant distribution. Combining physical samples with long-term datasets allowed researchers to build a broader picture of contamination patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-range-pollution-patterns">Long-range pollution patterns</h2>



In 2018, scientists collected snow samples across 48 Rocky Mountain sites. They measured metal levels, including calcium from natural sources. By comparing metals tied to both dust and human activity, they could isolate industrial impacts.



To test the strength of their findings, they added another layer — mercury and calcium data from the <a href="https://nadp.slh.wisc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Atmospheric Deposition Program</a>, collected between 2009 and 2018. Patterns held steady.



“I was surprised by the amount of agreement we saw between all these different data sets we brought together,” Arienzo said. 



“The snow samples showed us that contamination is higher in the northern Rockies, and that was really interesting. Looking at mercury contamination over time helped us say that 2018 is not just a fluke." 



"When you start to see these trends that are consistent between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different records</a>, it makes you feel more confident that something’s really happening here.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mining-sites-in-the-path-of-snow-storms">Mining sites in the path of snow storms</h2>



Tracking storms gave the team another clue. Northern Rockies storms often came from the Pacific Northwest. Those in the southern Rockies mostly crossed the Mojave Desert.



By overlaying these paths with USGS maps of mining and smelting sites, they saw a clear link. Active and historical mines sat directly in the path of northern storms.



“Our idea is that the dust from current and historical mining sites gets carried up into the mountains and deposited across our study sites,” Arienzo said. 



“This study shows the importance of continued scientific monitoring efforts, like the long-term USGS datasets we used here, as well as mitigation of current and historical mining sites.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-mining-pollution-in-snow">Studying mining pollution in snow</h2>



This research is part of a larger initiative funded by the National Science Foundation. In addition to studying snow, Arienzo and her team are examining tree rings as a natural archive of environmental pollution. 



Trees, like snow, accumulate traces of mercury and other metals over time. By comparing the mercury levels found in snow to those recorded in tree rings, scientists aim to build a more complete picture of how contaminants move through ecosystems.



This comparison could reveal long-term trends in pollution levels, helping scientists understand not only where contamination is happening but how it changes over decades. These insights can inform environmental cleanup efforts, water management policies, and public health decisions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-how-pollutants-travel">Understanding how pollutants travel</h2>



As the climate shifts and industrial legacies resurface in unexpected ways, understanding how pollutants travel through the atmosphere becomes more urgent. 



The snow that once symbolized purity now carries a story of industrial history, scientific discovery, and environmental responsibility. 



With continued research, we may better understand these silent risks and work toward protecting the landscapes we depend on.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749125004671?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Pollution</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Rocky Mountain snow contains toxic metals from faraway mining

Snowpack in the Rocky Mountains acts like nature’s reservoir. It...

Tiny organisms in the sea provide about half of Earth’s oxygen, which shows how much life below the waves matters for everyone on the planet. These organisms often cluster in drifting currents and eddies that seem small compared to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/ocean-basin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean basins</a>, yet each swirling system teems with energetic chemistry and unexpected activity.



Eddies in the ocean can measure around six to 62 miles wide, spinning off from busy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-weather-is-affected-by-the-atmosphere-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal areas</a> and then journeying into quieter open waters. Kevin Becker from <a href="https://www.geomar.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GEOMAR</a> led a project that explored these twisting flows and tracked what they deliver to regions far from shore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-eddies-move-nutrients-offshore">Ocean eddies move nutrients offshore</h2>



Many people envision the ocean as calm on the surface and dark below. Scientists now know these waters are crisscrossed by powerful rotations that form near coastlines, including the <a href="https://meerwissen.org/news/mauritania-hot-earth-cold-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mauritanian upwelling system</a> off West Africa.



These persistent eddies can carry material that supports marine life in places where conditions might otherwise be meager. They become natural transport lines for valuable molecules and nutrients that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-currents-may-soon-clean-up-waste-thanks-to-space-tech/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> creatures need.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-eddies-carry-energy-rich-lipids">Ocean eddies carry energy-rich lipids</h2>



In recent work aboard the <a href="https://www.ebus-climate-change.de/reebus-m156" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">METEOR M156 Expedition</a>, researchers used high-resolution methods to identify nearly 1,000 different <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24425-lipids" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lipids</a> from the top layers of the Atlantic. 



These molecules make up a key fraction of phytoplankton bodies and provide energy for everything higher up the food chain.



“These eddies are basically the food trucks of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-trash-debris-now-found-in-deepest-parts-of-earths-seas-and-oceans-mediterranean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a>,” explained Dr. Kevin Becker, lead author of the study. Those words hint at the diversity and abundance of molecules that swirl along with the current, ready to nourish anything that ingests them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-energy-reserves">Surprising energy reserves</h2>



A fascinating discovery was the abundance of energy-packed <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/fatty-acid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fatty acids</a>. They showed up in forms that creatures like fish and zooplankton cannot make on their own, which means these compounds help sustain life wherever the eddy spins.



Scientists uncovered storage lipids in certain spots within the rotating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/southern-ocean-absorbs-more-co2-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waters</a>, pointing to thriving microscopic communities. This energy reservoir can be a jackpot for marine grazers that encounter it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eddies-transport-organic-carbon">Eddies transport organic carbon</h2>



The team found that up to 9.7 ± 2.0 gigagrams (about 10,000 tons) of organic carbon may hitch a ride each year on westward-moving eddies. 



These swirling blobs of seawater can journey hundreds of miles, distributing nutritious materials in areas that would otherwise see fewer life-sustaining resources.



Gaining a better handle on how much carbon these eddies export helps clarify the ocean’s big picture. It also helps scientists understand how changes in currents could affect wildlife far offshore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-this-matters-for-fish-and-people">Why this matters for fish and people</h2>



Marine organisms depend on carbon and nutrients to survive. Those lipids and fatty acids are building blocks for healthy fish stocks, which support <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/population-assessments" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">local fisheries</a> that put food on human tables.



Shifting ocean conditions under a warming climate could affect where and how these eddies form. That might change how nutrients flow across the sea, influencing the future of fisheries and coastal economies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-shifts-and-ocean-health">Community shifts and ocean health</h2>



The <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02152-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> showed that tiny phytoplankton play a starring role in shaping the chemistry within eddies. They thrive in upwelled waters before swirling along with the current.



Different species within these spinning waters can alter nutrient cycles in subtle ways. Researchers are examining how shifts in <a href="https://bio.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Microbiology/Microbiology_(Boundless)/16%3A_Microbial_Ecology/16.03%3A_Aquatic_Microbiology/16.3B%3A_Planktonic_Communities" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plankton communities</a> ripple up to affect the entire food web and the global carbon balance.



Mauritania’s coastal waters are a prime example of how wind, currents, and topography blend to form these eddies. Similar processes occur elsewhere, hinting that these spinning parcels of water are a widespread phenomenon worth watching.



Scientists will collect more data from other upwelling zones to see if eddies in those places function in the same way. Far-reaching comparisons may reveal broader lessons about nutrient transport and carbon flow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-may-reshape-ocean-eddies">Climate may reshape ocean eddies</h2>



<a href="https://www.gfdl.noaa.gov/ocean-mesoscale-eddies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesoscale eddies</a> may grow stronger or weaker as ocean temperatures change. Some climate <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2023.1157049/full">models</a> suggest patterns could shift in the coming years, yet the long-term consequences remain unclear.



More research is needed to figure out what will happen if these swirling waters become more or less common. Everything from the tiniest plankton to the largest fish might be affected.



The recent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02152-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> have shown that there is plenty to learn by exploring these spinning dynamics. Sophisticated techniques let experts pick apart complex chemical structures in water samples that were once a mystery.



“Our study highlights the central role of mesoscale eddies,” concluded Professor Dr. Anja Engel, lead scientist of the project and head of the Marine Biogeochemistry Research Division at GEOMAR.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02152-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Spinning ocean eddies feed marine life with rich nutrients

Tiny organisms in the sea provide about half of Earth’s...

Every summer feels hotter than the last. News reports cover deadly heatwaves, rising humidity, and collapsing infrastructure under soaring temperatures. But while climate models predict extreme weather, a deeper question lingers: how much heat can the human body actually tolerate?



A recent study from the University of Ottawa’s Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit (<a href="https://hepru.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HEPRU</a>) has provided fresh insights. 



The team, led by Dr. Robert D. Meade and Professor Glen Kenny, set out to measure the biological limits of thermoregulation - our body’s ability to control internal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-heat-is-pushing-parts-of-earth-beyond-human-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a> under conditions of environmental stress.



This research does more than update old data. It redefines our understanding of human survival in a warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-tolerance-is-lower-than-expected">Heat tolerance is lower than expected</h2>



Until recently, scientists assumed that humans could tolerate “wet bulb” temperatures - where humidity and heat combine - up to 35 °C. This threshold was widely cited as the maximum point for survival. However, new experiments have challenged that belief.



“The conditions under which humans can effectively regulate their body temperature are actually much lower than earlier models suggested,” said Professor Kenny.



This revelation comes from a series of precise laboratory experiments that exposed volunteers to controlled <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat</a> and humidity. 



The research team applied a method called thermal-step protocols, where air temperature or relative humidity is increased in steps to determine when the body loses control over its internal temperature. 



This point, called the “core temperature inflection,” was assumed to mark the edge of thermoregulation. Yet, until now, no study had tested this assumption directly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-human-thermoregulation-limits">Testing human thermoregulation limits</h2>



To validate the threshold, researchers subjected 12 healthy adults to extreme conditions in a climate-controlled chamber. First, each participant underwent a humidity-step protocol. 



They were gradually exposed to increasing levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-broke-records-for-450-straight-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat</a> or moisture to determine their personal inflection point - the moment when their core temperature started climbing sharply.



But the experiment didn’t stop there. Each participant returned for two additional 9-hour trials. In one session, they were exposed to a wet bulb temperature just below their individual limit (around 30.9 °C). 



In the other, they faced a temperature just above it (approximately 33.7 °C). The goal was to see whether the body could adapt and stabilize, or whether it would succumb to the heat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-the-body-fails-to-cool-itself">When the body fails to cool itself</h2>



The outcome was decisive. “The results were clear. The participants’ core <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a> streamed upwards unabated, and many participants were unable to finish the 9-hour exposure,” Dr. Meade explained.



These extended trials confirmed that even slightly exceeding the inflection point leads to dangerous, unmanageable rises in body temperature. Heat stroke levels (around 40.2 °C core temperature) could be reached in under 10 hours under “Tabove” conditions. 



Even in the “Tbelow” trials, where conditions were slightly milder, the body struggled. It would take more than 24 hours to reach heat stroke, but the trajectory was still upward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-heat-impacts-on-humans">Predicting heat impacts on humans</h2>



This research does more than confirm a theory - it validates a method.



Thermal-step protocols have been used for decades to estimate limits for thermoregulation, but they lacked direct validation. Now, with this study, scientists can confidently rely on these models when projecting future human risks.



“Our findings [are] especially timely, given estimated limits for thermoregulation are being increasingly incorporated into large scale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clouds-have-become-less-reflective-making-global-warming-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> modeling,” noted Dr. Meade.



By testing human physiology in real-world simulations, this study connects lab science with global climate data. It also provides detailed measurements of physiological strain during prolonged exposure.



Even when core temperature didn’t immediately reach lethal levels, participants showed signs of uncompensated heat stress - rapid heart rates, fatigue, and inability to finish the trial.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-climate-map">Global climate map</h2>



As climate models grow more detailed, they are beginning to include human physiological limits. This study adds confidence to those models by showing that the lab-based thermal-step method can predict real-life responses. 



It also shifts expectations: survivability thresholds now fall between 26 °C and 31 °C wet bulb temperature, which is much lower than the previously cited 35 °C mark.



“By integrating physiological data with climate models, we hope to better predict and prepare for heat-related health issues,” said Professor Kenny.



In other words, this isn’t just about lab numbers. It’s about how cities will respond to heat emergencies, how healthcare systems can adapt, and how urban planning must change. Policies can now draw on data that reflect the actual stress on human bodies under conditions of rising temperature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-exposure-may-exceed-human-capacity">Heat exposure may exceed human capacity</h2>



What makes this study urgent is the projection that large regions across the globe will soon experience these dangerous conditions. 



Some of these zones include densely populated areas where millions may face extended periods of wet bulb temperatures of above 32 °C. With each degree rise, the margin for survival shrinks.



These findings serve as both a warning and a guide. They remind us that biological systems - unlike machines - can only adapt so far. The limits are real, measurable, and fast approaching.



Human survival under climate stress will depend not only on environmental policy but on understanding and respecting the boundaries of our own physiology.



This research marks a turning point. It shows that the future of climate adaptation must start with the human body. It is not a matter of theory, but of the unmistakable rise of core temperatures, the lab data collected over nine sweltering hours, and the shared vulnerability of every person facing a hotter planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2421281122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Humans have a much lower heat tolerance than expected

Every summer feels hotter than the last. News reports cover...

Clothing rental has been pitched as a way to curb the fashion industry’s massive environmental impact. But so far, many of these ventures haven’t lasted long. 



What could make this idea work? It turns out that focusing on a specific market and building strong relationships with suppliers could be the key.



A recent study investigated whether clothing rental is a possible solution to the fashion industry's footprint. The research was led by <a href="https://www.chalmers.se/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chalmers University of Technology</a>, along with experts at the University of Borås and the research institute RISE.



The team explored what has and hasn’t worked for companies trying to make renting clothes a practical, long-term business.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rental-clothes-and-sustainable-consumption">Rental clothes and sustainable consumption </h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fashion-industrys-plastic-waste-is-a-major-environmental-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fashion industry</a> is one of the top contributors to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unprecedented-increase-in-global-ocean-plastic-pollution-since-2005/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global pollution</a>. In Sweden alone, over 90% of the climate impact from clothing comes from newly produced garments.



Renting instead of buying could keep clothes in circulation longer and reduce the need for constant production.



"Many people have clothes hanging in the closet that are rarely or never used. Renting clothes can extend the use of each garment and thus contribute to more sustainable consumption," said study co-author Professor Frida Lind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-fashion-rental-models">Types of fashion rental models</h2>



The researchers examined nine Swedish clothing rental companies. Some were still active, while others had shut down. Through this, they identified three common types of rental models.



The first model is membership-based. Customers sign up and borrow clothes for a set period of time, similar to how a library works. These companies were often founded by individuals who were driven by an interest in sustainability.



The second approach is subscription-based. In this model, customers pay a monthly fee and receive a rotating selection of garments to wear. Companies using this model usually aimed to expand quickly and attract investors.



The third model focuses on individual rentals. These businesses typically offered clothing for specific purposes - such as renting out ski jackets along with ski equipment - creating a bundled, purpose-driven experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-fashion-rental-companies-struggle">Why fashion rental companies struggle </h2>



Despite genuine interest from consumers, many of the businesses struggled to stay afloat.



"What struck us was that it seemed so difficult for them to make their business profitable. Several had had to end their investments for various reasons," said Professor Lind.



Running a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-were-already-making-clothing-120000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clothing</a> rental service involves multiple layers of effort. Every garment needs to be returned, cleaned, inspected, and prepared before it can be sent out again. This process is time-consuming and costly. 



Many companies also had high overhead expenses related to storage, transportation, and laundry. For those using a subscription model, raising early-stage investment proved difficult. 



The researchers found that most of these models simply require more time and support to take root in the market.



"Renting out <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-dark-side-of-donating-clothes-to-charity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clothes</a> involves many steps where each item of clothing needs to be handled and inspected before it can be rented out again, which takes time. Companies also struggled with high costs for warehousing, logistics and laundry, for example," said Professor Lind.



"Especially for the subscription models, there were also difficulties in obtaining venture capital to be able to survive financially through the first phase of building the company. All this shows that these business models need time to establish themselves in the market."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-niche-markets-are-more-promising">Niche markets are more promising</h2>



Not all of the business models fared poorly. Companies that targeted a narrow and specific market - such as outdoor gear - had better outcomes, especially when they operated near places where such clothing was needed.



"They seem to have found their niche and seen that there is a specific need that the customer is willing to pay for each time they need to use that type of clothing," said Professor Lind.



Companies that collaborated closely with clothing designers, manufacturers, and suppliers tended to do better as they gained useful insights that helped improve both product quality and customer satisfaction.



"Rental companies that worked closely with clothing manufacturers and suppliers, such as designers with a sustainability profile, benefited greatly from this as they were able to quickly get feedback on which types of clothing were most popular," said Professor Lind.



"They also gained valuable information about the quality of the garments, for example if there was something that often broke."



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



The researchers didn’t measure the environmental impact of each business model in this particular study. But earlier findings from Chalmers show that 70 percent of a garment’s climate impact comes from production, while 22 percent is linked to the shopping trips consumers make to buy them. 



In the U.S., an average person throws away about 81 pounds of clothing per year. In the EU, that number is about 26 pounds per person.



If people buy fewer new clothes and use existing garments for longer, that shift could bring major environmental benefits. And if those changes happen without extra travel emissions - even better.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-habits-one-attempt-at-a-time">Changing habits, one attempt at a time</h2>



While some of the companies examined for the study didn’t survive, Professor Lind believes the broader effort is still important. She noted that even failed attempts help shift public attitudes around how we view clothing ownership and consumption. They also provide useful lessons for future ventures.



"All initiatives that can contribute to the sustainability transition are important. Not least because they help to change attitudes about clothing consumption and increase knowledge about what can and cannot work," said Professor Lind.



"Our study can be an important contribution to the fashion industry's sustainability transition, as it shows the possibilities of new business models in this industry." 



"We hope that it can have an impact on decision-makers who need a basis for establishing incentives and financial motivation for a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wealthy-nations-are-making-more-progress-toward-sustainable-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable</a> fashion industry."



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/jbim-04-2024-0281/full/html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Business and Industrial Marketing</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Borrow clothes, save the planet? The reality of fashion rental

Clothing rental has been pitched as a way to curb...

Every year, humpback whales in the southeastern Pacific make a long and difficult journey. They travel up to 10,000 kilometers from Central and South America to their feeding grounds in Antarctica.



But how do they know when it's time to leave? According to new research, these whales rely on both real-time changes in their environment and long-term memories of past ocean conditions to time their migrations.



The study, led by scientists from <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a>, used eight years of satellite tracking data collected between 2009 and 2016. The team tracked 42 humpback whales tagged near Costa Rica, Panama, and Ecuador.



By following the whales' movements southward to Antarctica, the researchers hoped to understand what cues triggered their annual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noise-pollution-is-increasingly-disrupting-whale-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-use-memory-to-time-their-journey">Whales use memory to time their journey</h2>



The study revealed that whales respond to local cues such as sea surface temperature and food availability.



But they don’t rely solely on current conditions. They also seem to remember when food was most abundant in the Southern Ocean during previous years.



That memory, combined with what’s happening around them, helps them decide when to go.



“They seem to know that changes happening in their immediate environment are linked to conditions thousands of kilometers away,” said Professor Virginie Millien. “This allows them to fine-tune their migration, so they arrive just as their food supply peaks.”



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-reproduction-is-linked-to-krill-abundance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Krill</a>, a small crustacean, is the whales’ main food source in Antarctica. Each year, krill populations bloom during a specific seasonal window. 



For centuries, whales have timed their migration to match this pattern. But that rhythm is now being disrupted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-whales-keep-up-with-climate-change">Can whales keep up with climate change?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/krill-face-a-double-whammy-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warmer oceans</a> and changes in sea ice are beginning to shift the timing of the krill bloom. Even though whales are adjusting their departures, climate change may be moving too fast for them to keep up.



“We don't know how long they'll be able to keep up,” said Millien. “Every year since 2016 has been the warmest on record, and that pattern is speeding up. At some point, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-whales-memories-feeding-sites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory-based</a> strategy may no longer work.”



The study also revealed notable differences in how males and females migrate. Male humpbacks tend to travel more quickly and take direct paths. 



In contrast, females - especially those with calves - stick to the coast. Their route is slower but possibly safer, giving their young time to rest and stay away from predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-delicate-balance-of-marine-ecosystems">Delicate balance of marine ecosystems </h2>



These findings have important implications for conservation. As ship traffic increases along coastal routes, so do the dangers whales face.



Collisions with vessels and disturbances to their migration corridors can have serious effects on whale populations.



“This research provides the data needed to inform conservation efforts,” said Hector Guzman of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. “It's not just about protecting whales; it's about preserving the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.”



The researchers emphasize the need to safeguard migration routes and feeding zones, especially as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-a-warming-climate-will-change-the-humpback-whales-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate continues to shift</a>. Protecting these areas doesn’t just benefit whales - it supports the entire marine food web.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-whales-matter-more-than-ever">Why whales matter more than ever</h2>



Whales are amazing animals that help keep oceans and seas healthy. As they move, whales consume food and excrete waste - assisting with the distribution of nutrients in the water body.



This enables the growth of phytoplankton and other microscopic plants which take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen. Thus, whales make a direct contribution to the food webs of the ocean and the climate on land.



Their existence also boosts biodiversity, creating new feeding opportunities for other marine creatures that depend on nutrient-rich zones. 



If whale populations are decimated, the productivity of the ocean will decline. As waters undergo more drastic changes, the survival of humpback whales is crucial.



Observations of humpback whales provide researchers with insights into the limits of ecosystem resilience and the measures needed to prevent collapse. From this perspective, protecting whales becomes a priority, along with assessing the overall health and stability of the oceans.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-87489-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Whales in hot water: Will climate change disrupt their migration?

Every year, humpback whales in the southeastern Pacific make a...

The climate crisis no longer lies in the future. It is unfolding now, reshaping lives, ecosystems, and economies with each passing year. Extreme weather, deadly air, rising seas, and shrinking habitats are no longer predictions. They are our reality. 



Behind much of this damage stands a powerful engine: fossil fuels. From coal plants to gas flares, fossil fuel use drives the most pressing crises of our time.



A new review published in Oxford Open Climate Change delivers this message with renewed clarity. Scientists from leading institutions have reviewed extensive data and issued a unified warning.



Fossil fuels, they say, are not just damaging the climate. They are fueling health crises, destroying biodiversity, worsening <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental injustice</a>, and choking the planet with plastic and chemical waste.



The United States plays a major role in these challenges. As the largest oil and gas producer, the country drives much of the damage. The review calls for a full shift to clean, renewable energy. This shift must happen rapidly and fairly across all economic sectors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extensive-harm-from-burning-fossil-fuels">Extensive harm from burning fossil fuels</h2>



“The science can’t be any clearer that fossil fuels are killing us,” said Dr. Shaye Wolf, lead author of the review and climate science director at the <a href="https://www.biologicaldiversity.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Biological Diversity</a>.



“Oil, gas and coal will continue to condemn us to more deaths, wildlife extinctions and extreme weather disasters unless we make dirty fossil fuels a thing of the past. Clean, renewable energy is here, it’s affordable, and it will save millions of lives and trillions of dollars once we make it the centerpiece of our economy.”



Fossil fuels drive about 90% of human-caused carbon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>. These emissions warm the planet and acidify oceans. They also fuel deadly weather events. 



On top of this, fossil fuel pollution causes millions of premature deaths globally every year. In the U.S. alone, hundreds of thousands die early due to air pollution.



The review links climate change to worsening disease spread, food insecurity, and forced migration. These add new layers of suffering, especially in already vulnerable populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-call-for-immediate-action">A call for immediate action</h2>



Governments must act now. The scientists call for an end to fossil fuel expansion. Existing fossil fuel projects should be phased out. Only strong, immediate policy action can limit the mounting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-constantly-reshuffling-earths-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">damages</a>.



“Fossil fuel pollution impacts health at every stage of life, with elevated risks for conditions ranging from premature births to childhood leukemia and severe depression,” said Dr. David J.X. González, assistant professor at <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Berkeley</a>.



“We’ve got to work fast to end fossil fuel operations near our homes, schools and hospitals and trade fossil fuel infrastructure for healthy, clean energy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-injustice-due-to-fossil-fuels">Environmental injustice due to fossil fuels</h2>



The report also highlights racial and economic disparities. Communities of color and low-income neighborhoods bear the brunt of fossil fuel pollution. Historic policies like redlining have trapped many in toxic zones.



“Decades of discriminatory policies, such as redlining, have concentrated fossil fuel development in Black, Brown, Indigenous and poor white communities, resulting in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-shrinking-earths-atmosphere-and-thats-bad-for-satellites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devastating consequences</a>,” said Dr. Robin Saha from the <a href="https://www.umt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Montana</a>.



“For far too long, these fenceline communities have been treated as sacrifice zones by greedy, callous industries. The most polluted communities should be prioritized for clean energy investments and removal and cleanup of dirty fossil fuel infrastructure.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extinction-risks-and-plastic-pollution">Extinction risks and plastic pollution</h2>



Unchecked fossil fuel use could wipe out up to one-third of animal and plant species in the next 50 years. 



To protect ecosystems, renewable energy infrastructure must avoid damaging natural habitats. Instead, it should be placed in developed areas whenever possible.



The review also focuses on plastics. Fossil fuel companies ramp up plastic production, increasing pollution across air, water, and food systems. These pollutants harm wildlife and people alike.



The scientists urge bold targets to cut primary plastic production. They also push for alternatives to plastic and more sustainable farming methods. These shifts can reduce petrochemical pollution from pesticides and fertilizers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decades-of-disinformation">Decades of disinformation</h2>



A major barrier that stands in the way of progress is industry propaganda.



“The fossil fuel industry has spent decades misleading us about the harms of their products and working to prevent meaningful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ice-age-cycles-are-predictable-but-humans-may-change-that/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate action</a>,” said Naomi Oreskes, professor at <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>. 



“Perversely, our governments continue to give out hundreds of billions of dollars in subsidies to this damaging industry. It is past time that stops.”



The review ends with a clear message: We have the tools to change course. What’s needed now is political will.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/oocc/article/5/1/kgaf011/8099165" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford Open Climate Change</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Fossil fuel pollution is causing disease, disaster, and extinction

The climate crisis no longer lies in the future. It...

Butterflies have always captured human imagination. Their delicate wings, bright patterns, and graceful flight inspire poetry, art, and science. Beyond their beauty, butterflies play vital roles in ecosystems as pollinators and as part of complex food webs. But a new climate warning has emerged. 



A Yale-led global study suggests their mountain homes — long thought to be safe havens — are becoming death zones. Climate change, once a distant threat, is now closing in fast.



The study, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, provides the first global analysis of butterfly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterfly-genome-has-barely-changed-after-250-million-years-of-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a> and climate risk. It exposes a crisis unfolding in silence, high in the world’s mountain ranges. 



And it paints a troubling picture not only for butterflies but for insect life as a whole.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reverse-butterfly-effect">The reverse butterfly effect</h2>



The phrase “butterfly effect” describes how a small action, like a butterfly flapping its wings, can lead to large consequences — like a hurricane across the world. This study shows something more haunting: a global storm threatening <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterfly-mate-preferences-shift-with-slight-brain-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a> themselves.



According to the researchers, mountain habitats that once offered protection may now become population traps. These zones are warming fast. 



With nowhere higher to go, butterflies may run out of suitable conditions. Species adapted to cooler, narrow temperature bands will suffer most.



Even more concerning, the study points to a critical data gap. While scientists have long tracked changes in birds, mammals, and plants, insects - though far more numerous - have been overlooked in global biodiversity models.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-butterfly-data-reveals-climate-danger">Global butterfly data reveals climate danger</h2>



To understand how butterflies might respond to climate change, Yale ecologist Walter Jetz and entomologist Stefan Pinkert led a team of researchers. They compiled phylogenetic and geographic data for over 12,000 butterfly species around the globe. 



​Jetz directs the&nbsp;<a href="https://bgc.yale.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale Center for Biodiversity and Global Change</a>, while Pinkert, now at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uni-marburg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Marburg</a>&nbsp;in Germany, previously worked at Yale as a postdoctoral associate.​



Their work revealed that two-thirds of butterfly species live in tropical and subtropical mountains. These regions hold 3.5 times more butterfly hotspots than lowlands. 



But this concentration also increases risk. Mountains are warming quickly, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-country-without-butterflies-rapid-decline-in-u-s-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> that evolved in specific temperature zones may not adapt in time.



The study predicts that 64% of the thermal niche space used by tropical butterflies will disappear by 2070. As climate zones shift upward and shrink, many butterflies will lose their homes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-puts-butterflies-at-risk">Climate change puts butterflies at risk</h2>



Jetz explained the danger with both urgency and admiration.



“The diversity, elegance, and sheer beauty of butterflies impassion people worldwide. Co-evolved with host plants, butterflies form an integral part of an ecologically functioning web of life," said Jetz.



“Unfortunately, our first global assessment of butterfly diversity and threats finds that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterfly-migration-habits-are-not-determined-by-their-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a>’ fascinating diversification into higher-elevation environments might now spell their demise, with potentially thousands of species committed to extinction from global warming this century.”



Pinkert shares this concern, especially as someone who has spent years studying insects. 



“As an entomologist, I am committed to informing the public about the distribution of insect diversity and targeted ways to protect it. Our results are insightful from an ecological point of view but unfortunately also very alarming,” noted Pinkert.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterflies-expose-a-conservation-blind-spot">Butterflies expose a conservation blind spot</h2>



The findings reveal a sharp contrast between butterflies and other well-known animals. Conservation plans today often rely on patterns seen in birds or mammals. 



But insects show very different responses. Their diversity and rarity do not follow the same geographic rules. As a result, current protection strategies might miss critical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-learn-about-butterflies-day-an-enchanting-world-awaits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect</a> habitats.



The authors note that, until now, no global assessment of climate threats for any insect group existed. Butterflies offer the first test case — and the results demand a rethink. 



Butterflies are far more than pretty wings. They act as indicators of environmental health. Their decline signals deeper ecological instability.



Pinkert emphasized the scale of the project. “This research was made possible by many years of mobilizing various global data and newly developed integrative approaches, all aimed at filling this critical information gap for at least one insect taxon,” he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explore-climate-threat-to-butterflies">Explore climate threat to butterflies</h2>



While the results are stark, the researchers still see a path forward. Protection of key butterfly habitats, especially in the tropics, must become a priority. 



Connecting these areas with migratory corridors can help species survive shifting climates. This strategy will require better insect data, broader conservation planning, and faster emissions cuts.



Jetz points to a global tool already in use — the Map of Life, a database he directs that tracks species distributions worldwide.



“A reduction of carbon emissions, combined with proactive identification and preservation of key butterfly habitats and migratory corridors, will be key to ensuring that much of butterfly diversity survives to benefit future generations,” Jetz said.



The study’s co-authors include Nina Farwig of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uni-marburg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Marburg</a>&nbsp;and Akito Kawahara of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a>. Support came from the&nbsp;Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.moore.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a>, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://eowilsonfoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation</a>.



To view the findings and explore butterfly distributions in more depth, visit the <a href="https://mol.org">Map of Life</a>. As butterflies face mounting pressure, the need to act has never been clearer. 



Their quiet struggle on mountain peaks is not just a story about insects. It’s a signal to humanity that time is running out.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-025-02664-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Butterfly effect in reverse: Climate change turns havens into traps

Butterflies have always captured human imagination. Their delicate wings, bright...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



—–



Like what you saw and read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



—–



Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.



—–

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



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



-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



<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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



---



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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



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

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



---



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



---



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



---



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



---



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



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

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="fxH3eJHEkQ-2010196-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



---



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



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

Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="Ccjk8KEMzv-2550719-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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



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

Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

Closeup,Of,Fresh,Green,The,Napier,Bush,Grass,As,Animal

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6SdlLLbt0t-1988946-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="http://www.ntu.edu.sg/">NTU Singapore</a> reveals that some plants can remove toxic heavy metals from soil.&nbsp;



The researchers analyzed samples of various tropical plant species to test for levels of heavy metals and metalloids. The study showed that there are existing plants with high levels of these contaminants, which means that these species are great candidates for drawing pollutants out of the soil.&nbsp;



Among the plants examined in the study, 12 species had accumulated several types of heavy metals and metalloids. These plants are widely available, including species that are native to Singapore.



“In a small nation like Singapore, land may be repurposed to support new development plans, so it is important that we have a green and sustainable way to remediate land that is contaminated," said Professor Lam Yeng Ming.



"We set out to uncover how to better make use of tropical plants to do phytoremediation and through advanced characterization techniques, we showed how some of these tropical plant species can be an environmentally friendly and literally a 'green' way to remove contaminants in soil."&nbsp;



"Phytoremediation also has benefits of cost effectiveness, simplicity of management, aesthetic advantages, and long-term applicability and sustainability. The strategy prevents erosion and metal leaching by stabilizing or accumulating heavy metals, so that helps reduce the risk of contaminant spread.”



Video Credit: NTU Singapore



---



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



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

Plants help remove heavy metals from contaminated soil

[sendtonews key="6SdlLLbt0t-1988946-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NTU...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="gRpsplpwpe-2251464-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes why herbicides are not as effective in killing weeds anymore. In the 20th century, chemical companies developed thousands of herbicides. The most commonly used herbicide was glyphosate, which was introduced in 1974.



Over the past few decades, dozens of species of weeds have evolved resistance to glyphosate. Depending on the site of action, the part of the plant that an herbicide interacts with, weeds may even be resistant to herbicides that have not been developed yet.&nbsp;



With increasing resistance to glyphosate and other herbicides, weeds are - once again - becoming a major concern for farmers.&nbsp;



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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

Weeds are becoming increasingly resistant to herbicides

[sendtonews key="gRpsplpwpe-2251464-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="eAVLRk51oJ-1826888-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/">NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> (JPL) describes a dust storm on Mars that was nearly twice the size of the United States. As the storm covered the southern hemisphere of the planet, some of NASA’s explorers had to delay their normal activities.



NASA’s Insight lander put itself in a "safe mode" for 11 days to conserve battery power because solar power was disrupted by the dust. The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter postponed flights until conditions improved.



"A fleet of NASA orbiters monitor Martian dust storms like this one and serve as lifelines to Earth by relaying data from the rovers and lander on the ground back to the team. This includes the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, MAVEN, and Odyssey," reports JPL.



"Dust storms like this recent one start close to the ground and are spread by wind as they rise – warming the cold Martian atmosphere."



The images in the video were captured by NASA’s Curiosity as the dust rolled in. A fleet of orbiters monitored the dust storm from above, relaying data from Mars’ explorers back to scientists on Earth.



Video &amp; Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS



---



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



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

NASA monitors giant dust storms on Mars

[sendtonews key="eAVLRk51oJ-1826888-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

News coming your way