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>.



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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...

Global warming has already contributed to an alarming decline in plant species. By some estimates, around 600 plant species have vanished since 1750, which is twice the number of animal species lost in the same period.&nbsp;



Yet, questions persist: which plant species are most vulnerable to climate change, and how does changing biodiversity influence interactions between plants?&nbsp;



A research team from the <a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alfred Wegener Institute</a> (AWI) tackled these issues by analyzing centuries of plant genetic material preserved in lake sediments.



By focusing on the dramatic warming at the end of the last ice age - approximately 15,000 to 11,000 years ago - the experts gained novel insights into how flora reorganized during what they consider the last major mass extinction event prior to today. 



The findings, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-56176-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>, may help us gauge what could lie ahead in our current era of rapid climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-clues-from-ancient-plant-dna">Climate clues from ancient plant DNA</h2>



“Everyone knows that the woolly mammoth went extinct, but virtually no-one mentions the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-earths-most-endangered-plants-from-extinction-proving-difficult-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> that were lost at the end of the last ice age,” said Ulrike Herzschuh, a scientist at AWI. “Until recently, we lacked suitable methods for investigating the extinction of plant species in detail.”



Traditionally, scientists studied fossil pollen to learn about past vegetation, but pollen cannot reliably reveal extinct species or pinpoint which ones died out.



The AWI team employed advanced methods to scrutinize old DNA fragments deposited in lake sediments taken from Alaska and Siberia.&nbsp;



“Using cutting-edge methods, we analysed old DNA from sediment cores taken from lakes in Alaska and Siberia, which allowed us to reconstruct the changes in vegetation in these regions,” Herzschuh explained.&nbsp;



Those cores, containing up to 30,000-year-old plant DNA, were enriched, sequenced, and matched with existing genetic databases in specialized labs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-interactions-changed-with-the-climate">Plant interactions changed with the climate</h2>



The scientists used their data to chart where and when plant species emerged or disappeared across Siberia and Alaska, unlocking details about how plant communities evolved toward the end of the last ice age.&nbsp;



“We’ve now been able to determine in detail when and where species appeared and disappeared in Alaska and Siberia,” said Herzschuh. 



“Our research shows that the composition of plant species changed substantially at the end of the last ice age, and that this was accompanied by fundamental changes in the ecological conditions.”



Crucially, they found a link between temperature shifts and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climates-force-plants-to-compete-with-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-to-plant interactions</a>. During colder periods, plant species often supported one another, while in warmer periods, they primarily competed. 



“In the DNA from the lake sediments, we found e.g. many cushion plants, which most likely supported the expansion of other species by forming sheltered habitats,” Herzschuh noted.&nbsp;



In the modern Arctic, however, this helpful role might speed the cushion plants’ own decline.&nbsp;



“Since the warming of the Arctic has already progressed quite far, woody plants can survive even in the high latitudes. The cushion plants could facilitate their spreading, hastening their own extinction in the process,” explained Herzschuh.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-disappearance-of-entire-vegetation-types">The disappearance of entire vegetation types</h2>



The end of the last ice age triggered the loss of key types of vegetation, as the researchers confirmed using their new method. For instance, the mammoth steppe - a vast, grassy biome widespread during the ice age - vanished during the Earth’s transition to the current warm phase.&nbsp;



Identifying which species ceased to exist posed a particular challenge since modern DNA databases only catalog living plants.



“To identify the species that no longer existed, we had to use a trick,” Herzschuh said. They sifted through all DNA fragments in the sediment cores and systematically ruled out those resembling any species still alive. What remained were sequences likely belonging to extinct plants.&nbsp;



From this analysis, the experts concluded that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-perennial-grasses-could-help-curb-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grasses</a> and shrubs are among those most at risk in a warming climate, while woody plants typically expand under warmer conditions. A surprising discovery was the time lag. 



“That means the full impacts of today’s human activities might not become apparent until the distant future,” Herzschuh added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-today-s-arctic">Implications for today’s Arctic</h2>



The researchers emphasize that their findings offer essential reference data for assessing ongoing Arctic shifts, where the climate is changing more rapidly than almost anywhere else on Earth.&nbsp;



Their two new studies illustrate how warming influences not only individual species but also their ecological interactions - and how these changes may lead to permanent shifts in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-biodiversity-will-get-a-boost-from-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>.



“Our studies show how important it is to understand biodiversity and ecological interactions, also in the long term, in order to better predict the impacts of climate change,” Herzschuh said. “Using the information locked in old DNA from sediments, we can gain the fundamental knowledge needed to do so.”



By establishing extinction rates for ancient plants and examining how temperature-induced stressors remolded their communities, the research provides a valuable lens through which to view future risks.&nbsp;



The team hopes that comparing past extinctions with current conditions can guide policymakers and conservationists in predicting - and possibly mitigating - the fate of today’s Arctic and global ecosystems, which face many of the same pressures that once toppled the woolly mammoth and its lesser-known plant neighbors.



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Lessons from the ice age: How climate change reshapes plant life

Global warming has already contributed to an alarming decline in...

The Arabian Peninsula, known for its severe and arid climatic conditions, might have had a drastically different climate in the past.



A new study reveals that Arabia historically received higher levels of rainfall, shattering notions about the region’s long-term arid climate stability.



The research was conducted by experts from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science. 



The findings hold significant implications for urbanization trends in the Middle East, signaling a need for comprehensive planning to combat possible extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-increases-as-a-direct-result-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather risks</a>. 



The research emphasizes the importance of harnessing past data for predicting and preparing for the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arabia-once-had-abundant-rainfall">Arabia once had abundant rainfall</h2>



Contrary to the present barren desert, Arabia boasted of lush greenery thousands of years ago, sustained by consistent rainfall. 



The region, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and wolves, was far wetter than it is now in the last 2,000 years.



The researchers investigated the region's historical rainfall patterns. They found that rainfall was twice as much as it is today 200 years ago, and five times higher 400 years ago.



The results of the study indicate that the region has always been subjected to extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-summer-rainfall-events-have-increased-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather</a> fluctuations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-climate-variations">Consequences of climate variations</h2>



The swift pace of urbanization in the Middle East raises concerns about the potential aftermath of unexpected alterations in rainfall patterns. The infrastructure, shaped with the assumption of a stable climate, might not be equipped to withstand sudden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climatic changes</a>.



Sam Purkis, the study’s lead author, is a professor at the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School.



"As major development projects like <a href="https://www.neom.com/en-us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NEOM</a> in Saudi Arabia continue to reshape the landscape, these findings underscore the critical need for enhanced climate resilience and disaster preparedness to address the growing threat of extreme weather events in the region,” noted Professor Purkis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sea-sediments-reveal-arabia-s-rainfall-history">Deep-sea sediments reveal Arabia’s rainfall history</h2>



The researchers used deep-sea sediment from a brine pool in the Gulf of Aqaba, part of the northern Red Sea, to reconstruct past rainfall patterns. 



The unique chemistry of the brine splendidly preserved the sediment layers for centuries. These layers offer precise records of past rainfall patterns, enabling a more accurate understanding of long-term climate trends.



Recent trends have shown a rise in extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forecasting-the-floods-new-clues-about-extreme-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather</a> events in the Middle East, heightening the region's vulnerability to climate change. 



The winter of 2024 saw disastrous flooding across the Arabian Peninsula, emphasizing the need for climate adaptation to be prioritized by policymakers, urban planners, and scientists.



“This is a key record to fill in the history of the Middle Eastern climate. What it tells us is that the climate, both the average and the extremes, can change dramatically in this region, and the assumption of long-term climate stability in future development is not a good one,” noted Amy Clement, a professor at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-equipping-for-a-unpredictable-future">Equipping for a unpredictable future</h2>



The study accentuates the need for improved planning and adaptation, as human development in the region becomes increasingly exposed to extreme weather consequences. 



It also highlights the criticality of considering long-term climate patterns while designing new infrastructure and cities.



Scientific advancements have significantly bolstered climate research, permitting a more accurate understanding of historical climate patterns. 



“Utilizing the technology on OceanXplorer in combination with multidisciplinary experts in ocean and climate science we can further our understanding of the linkages between ocean systems and long-term weather and climate trends, to help at-risk areas be ready for the future,” noted Mattie Rodrigue, science program director at <a href="https://oceanx.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OceanX</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-arabia-s-rainfall-history">Learning from Arabia's rainfall history</h2>



The study, A 1,600-Year Record of Extreme Rainfall in Northern Arabia, is pivotal in understanding how the climate of the Arabian Peninsula has evolved over the centuries. 



While we might not have the power to control natural climate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes</a>, it is within our capacity to determine how effectively we adapt to these variations.



Therefore, it is imperative for governments, researchers, and urban planners to collaboratively create a future that effectively navigates the challenges posed by a rapidly changing climate, drawing valuable lessons from the past.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adq3173" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Arabia’s surprising rainfall history: Clues buried in the deep sea

The Arabian Peninsula, known for its severe and arid climatic...

Building collapses in one of the world’s oldest port cities have dramatically increased in recent years, and researchers are pointing to sea-level rise and seawater intrusion as key drivers. 



The alarming trend highlights the vulnerability of historic coastal hubs to even small changes in ocean levels.



In the port city of Alexandria, located on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast, the rate of building collapses has jumped from approximately one per year to around 40 per year.&nbsp;



Study co-author Essam Heggy is a water scientist at the <a href="https://www.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern California</a> (USC) Viterbi School of Engineering. 



“The true cost of this loss extends far beyond bricks and mortar. We are witnessing the gradual disappearance of historic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-coastal-cities-around-the-world-could-disappear-under-rising-seas-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal cities</a>, with Alexandria sounding the alarm. What once seemed like distant climate risks are now a present reality,” said Heggy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-seas-and-intensifying-storms-nbsp">Rising seas and intensifying storms&nbsp;</h2>



Alexandria has a history stretching back more than two millennia and has survived earthquakes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/20-years-later-remembering-the-worlds-deadliest-tsunami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tsunamis</a>, and conquests. Yet modern challenges appear to be outpacing the city’s traditional resilience. 



“For centuries, Alexandria’s structures stood as marvels of resilient engineering, enduring earthquakes, storm surges, tsunamis and more. But now, rising seas and intensifying storms - fueled by climate change - are undoing in decades what took millennia of human ingenuity to create,” said Sara Fouad, a landscape architect at the <a href="https://www.tum.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Technical University of Munich</a> (TUM) and the study’s first author.



Even slight sea-level increments - just a few centimeters - can prove destructive for coastal cities, weakening the ground beneath buildings and eroding essential infrastructure.&nbsp;



These dangers are not confined to Alexandria. Along many shorelines worldwide, scientists have identified the gradual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sinking-land-will-intensify-the-effects-of-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sinking</a> of coastal terrain, coupled with rising seas, which exacerbates the risk of flooding and saltwater infiltration into structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarm-bells-for-other-coastal-regions">Alarm bells for other coastal regions</h2>



The latest research on Alexandria parallels <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.ads8163" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a>, which have documented areas of California - such as the San Francisco Bay Area, Central Valley, and parts of Southern California - also sinking. 



Though these changes may be measured in mere centimeters, they heighten flood risks significantly when combined with coastal erosion.&nbsp;



“Our study challenges the common misconception that we’ll only need to worry when sea levels rise by a meter,” Heggy said.&nbsp;"However, what we’re showing here is that coastlines globally, especially Mediterranean coastlines similar to California’s, are already changing and causing building collapses at an unprecedented rate.”



Such phenomena demonstrate how cities on the Mediterranean - long admired for their coastal beauty - face problems that echo those now emerging in other shoreline communities, from Los Angeles to Naples.&nbsp;



Rising seas and shifting shorelines threaten everything from ancient monuments to modern housing developments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-collapse-of-alexandria-s-coastline">The collapse of Alexandria’s coastline</h2>



To quantify the growing crisis, the research team employed a comprehensive three-part strategy. First, they produced a detailed digital map of collapsed buildings in six districts of Alexandria’s historic core, among the most densely populated areas of the city.&nbsp;



The map includes location, size, construction materials, foundation depth, and floor count. Information was compiled via site visits, governmental records, news stories, and private company reports spanning 2001 to 2021.



Second, the group examined satellite images and historical maps from 1887, 1959, and 2001 to chart how parts of the city’s 50-mile shoreline have receded by tens of meters in recent decades.&nbsp;



By calculating the annual rate of coastal retreat, they found that the diminished coastline is raising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-depletion-is-accelerating-but-it-is-not-inevitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groundwater</a> levels, allowing saltwater to permeate deeper into the ground beneath buildings.



Third, they conducted a chemical isotope analysis of soil samples to pinpoint where seawater intrusion is undermining structural foundations.&nbsp;



“Our isotope analysis revealed that buildings are collapsing from the bottom up, as seawater intrusion erodes foundations and weakens the soil. It isn’t the buildings themselves, but the ground underneath them that’s being affected,” said Ibrahim H. Saleh, a soil radiation scientist at <a href="https://www.alexu.edu.eg/index.php/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alexandria University</a> and one of the study’s co-authors.



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



Among the proposed solutions is a nature-based coastal defense strategy, which involves creating sand dunes and planting vegetation along the shoreline.&nbsp;



This approach, the researchers argue, could help slow incoming seawater and keep groundwater levels from rising to the point where they compromise building footings. Such methods have proven effective in other regions where climate-driven <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fighting-coastal-erosion-electricity-turns-sand-into-a-sea-wall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal erosion</a> is intensifying.



“Preserving the diverse architectural attributes of Mediterranean historic cities is a powerful reminder of how landscape transformation has played a crucial role in creating climate-resilient societies,” noted Udo Weilacher, a landscape architect at TUM and study co-author.&nbsp;



The idea is not only to protect roads, infrastructure, and buildings, but also to maintain the cultural identity of heritage sites under siege from a rapidly changing environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-historic-cities-from-rising-seas">Protecting historic cities from rising seas</h2>



Alexandria has long been celebrated as a crossroads of civilizations, highlighted by iconic structures such as the Great Lighthouse (Pharos) in ancient times. Today’s unraveling coastline, however, represents a pressing threat to that cultural tapestry.&nbsp;



“Historic cities like Alexandria, which represent the cradle of cultural exchange, innovation and history, are crucial for safeguarding our shared human heritage,” Heggy said. “As climate change accelerates sea level rise and coastal erosion, protecting them isn’t just about saving buildings; it’s about preserving who we are.”



While the study’s authors urge immediate action in Alexandria, they also view the city as a bellwether for many other coastal urban centers. With targeted mitigation measures and renewed focus on nature-based solutions, it may still be possible to safeguard these locations - even as global warming ushers in an era of volatile seas.&nbsp;



The researchers hope that policy initiatives and international collaboration can help retain the architectural marvels of Alexandria and other ancient coastal sites for generations to come.



The study is published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2024EF004883" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s Future</a>, an American Geophysical Union (AGU) journal.



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Rising seas are already toppling coastal cities

Building collapses in one of the world’s oldest port cities...

The persistence of certain toxic chemicals in the environment has emerged as a modern threat. Among them, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pose a severe menace to wildlife and humans, infiltrating and accumulating in our systems over time. 



New research suggests a particularly high concentration of these chemicals in migratory birds, contributing to alarmingly high levels of these substances in our environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pfas-a-lasting-threat-to-birds">PFAS: A lasting threat to birds</h2>



PFAS, known as "forever chemicals" due to their resilience, are synthetic substances found in countless industrial and consumer products - from non-stick cookware to waterproof clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foams. 



Due to their non-degradable nature, these compounds persist in the environment and infiltrate living <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-navigate-using-clues-from-earths-magnetic-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organisms</a>.



These chemical contaminants not only exist in the air we breathe and the food we consume, but are also present in human blood. 



The accumulation of PFAS can lead to serious health implications such as liver damage, immune system suppression, endocrine disruption, reduced fertility, and various forms of cancer.



Despite increasing awareness, their pervasive use makes complete avoidance nearly impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pfas-pollution-spreading-in-birds">PFAS pollution spreading in birds</h2>



Recent studies have shown more alarming levels of PFAS in different ecosystems, particularly in birds migrating long distances. 



“The biggest increase is in the livers of wading birds. We found up to 180 times more PFAS than previously,” noted Junjie Zhang, a postdoctoral fellow formerly affiliated with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (<a href="https://www.ntnu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NTNU</a>).



This discovery indicates that our previous understanding of contamination levels significantly underestimated the actual situation.



Animals, particularly migratory birds, ingest PFAS through their diet and drinking water. As these birds rely on various habitats during their journeys, they are likely to consume polluted food sources, thereby ingesting these toxic substances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-bird-and-seafood-contamination">Analyzing bird and seafood contamination</h2>



Recently, Zhang's team analyzed samples from migratory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-extinctions-shatter-the-harmonious-balance-of-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> and the shellfish they consume. The goal was to learn more about how PFAS infiltrate the ecosystem.



The samples were collected from the East Asian-Australian Flyway, which is a critical migratory route for millions of shorebirds.



The results of the analysis indicated that shellfish living in polluted waters absorb these chemicals. Birds then ingest the shellfish, leading to an accumulation of toxins within their bodies, which they carry across continents, spreading contamination further.



A significant development in the recent study is the successful use of the Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) assay. This advanced detection method, developed by co-author Lara Cioni, allows scientists to identify PFAS compounds previously difficult to identify.



“The TOP results show a significant increase in several types of harmful substances in all of the samples,” noted Zhang.



With studies like these, we are gaining insights into the hidden sources of contamination and how they are impacting our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-birds-are-at-great-risk-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-further-research">Urgent need for further research</h2>



Given the unknown sources of contamination and the alarming rate at which these substances are infiltrating our ecosystems, further research is crucial. 



As these chemicals also find their way into seafood, humans, particularly those relying on seafood, could be at severe risk.



“We need to find out more about the sources, but also about the effects PFAS have on wading birds, other animals and humans,” said Professor Veerle Jaspers of NTNU’s Department of Biology.



The PFAS issue is not isolated to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-bird-species-face-extinction-risks-in-the-neotropics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>; it is a global human health crisis. The rising levels discovered in migratory birds emphasize the urgency for immediate action. The fact that birds carry these chemicals across the globe means that no region is immune to this threat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-declining-populations-of-shorebirds">Declining populations of shorebirds </h2>



The researchers noted that shorebirds are under threat worldwide and are particularly threatened in the East Asian Australian Flyway, where many species are declining by up to 8% per year.



"The causes for these population declines can be diverse including habitat loss, habitat alterations, climate change but also pollution along the East Asian Australian Flyway, especially in coastal China, has been suggested to play a role," wrote the experts.



"The coast of China is the most important replenishing area for shorebirds in the EAAF where they are feeding on the tidal mudflats on a diet of shellfish and other benthic invertebrates." 



"At the same time, this coastline is heavily impacted by mollusc aquaculture&nbsp;and industry, resulting in environmental contamination including PFAS."



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304389425001013?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Hazardous Materials</a>. 



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Migratory birds reveal alarming new clues about the spread of PFAS

The persistence of certain toxic chemicals in the environment has...

In many parts of the world, traditional landscapes once dominated by wild herbivores are undergoing dramatic changes.&nbsp;Livestock grazing has replaced native grazers, leading to shifts in soil composition, plant diversity, and the delicate balance of predator-prey interactions. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grazing-animals-have-an-unexpected-role-in-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transformations</a> are often subtle, unfolding over years, but their consequences can be far-reaching.



A long-term study in the Spiti valley of the Himalayas sheds light on how this shift is affecting ground-dwelling arthropods, including spiders, ticks, and mites. 



The findings reveal a concerning trend - spider populations are dwindling while disease-carrying organisms such as ticks and mites are thriving. 



These changes have direct implications for biodiversity, ecological stability, and even human health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-livestock-grazing-the-basics">Global livestock grazing - the basics</h2>



The expansion of livestock grazing areas has been reshaping landscapes around the world for decades. As global demand for meat and dairy products grows, ranchers and agribusinesses clear more land for cattle, sheep, and other grazing animals. 



In places like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon rainforest</a>, vast stretches of trees are cut down to create pastures, contributing to deforestation and habitat loss. 



Grasslands, savannas, and even arid regions are also being converted into grazing land, often at the cost of native ecosystems. 



Some regions are turning to regenerative grazing techniques, which involve rotating animals across different pastures to mimic natural grazing patterns and allow the land to recover. 



Others are exploring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-based-food-production-would-have-extremely-positive-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based</a> alternatives and lab-grown meat to reduce pressure on the planet. 



The challenge is balancing food production with environmental sustainability, and as global appetites grow, finding solutions becomes even more urgent.



While livestock farming plays a major role in feeding the world, its rapid expansion raises a multitude of concerns, many of which we will discuss in this article.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiders-in-livestock-grazed-areas">Spiders in livestock-grazed areas</h2>



The researchers found that livestock-grazed areas had fewer spiders but more grasshoppers, ticks, and mites. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rethinking-arachnid-evolution-the-surprising-history-of-spiders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiders</a> play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations.



Study co-author Sumanta Bagchi is an associate professor at the Centre for Ecological Sciences (<a href="https://ces.iisc.ac.in" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CES</a>), Indian Institute of Science (IISc).



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/save-a-spider-day-protecting-our-connection-with-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiders</a> are predators; their ecological roles are similar to wolves, lions, and tigers. A low abundance of spiders can release grasshoppers from predator control, and lead to many downstream changes in an ecosystem. Together, these effects alter material and energy flow,” explained Bagchi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-replacing-wild-herbivores-with-livestock">Replacing wild herbivores with livestock</h2>



Bagchi and his team have studied livestock’s impact on Spiti valley <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seaweed-supplements-reduce-methane-in-grazing-cattle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> for over 15 years. They note that wild herbivores like yak and ibex once thrived globally but are now confined to protected areas. Elsewhere, domesticated animals dominate.



For the study, the researchers tracked over 25,000 arthropods from 88 taxa, including spiders, ticks, mites, bees, wasps, and grasshoppers. 



They monitored fenced plots with either wild or domestic grazers and analyzed soil moisture, pH, and vegetation biomass.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupting-arthropod-habitats">Disrupting arthropod habitats</h2>



Shamik Roy, former PhD student at CES and co-first author, pointed out that arthropods have long-established ties with native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-grasslands-bring-more-peace-to-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grazers</a>.



“Vegetation and soil biotic and abiotic variables are intertwined in complex ways that we are still unravelling. Arthropods heavily depend on them for food and home, an association developed over centuries with native grazers in the ecosystem,” noted Roy.



Replacing these grazers disrupts arthropod populations. The study found that spiders declined in livestock-grazed areas, while ticks and mites flourished. 



The reasons behind spider declines are unclear, but reduced prey availability and vegetation changes may contribute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-disease-carrying-arthropods">Increasing disease-carrying arthropods</h2>



Pronoy Baidya, former PhD student at CES and co-first author, highlights a concerning trend. 



“One of the most surprising observations was the massive difference in tick and mite abundance between native grazers and livestock,” Baidya said.



Eighty percent of cattle worldwide carry ticks, which poses risks to both animals and humans. “This is a major concern for zoonotic diseases and One Health,” said Baidya.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-livestock-grazing-and-vegetation">Livestock grazing and vegetation</h2>



Livestock grazing affects vegetation structure and soil health in complex ways. The study revealed that areas with domestic grazers had different plant compositions compared to those with native herbivores. 



Changes in plant types influence arthropod diversity and alter food availability for different species.



Soil conditions, including moisture and pH levels, also shift under livestock grazing. These changes impact microbial communities, further influencing the ecosystem. 



Healthy soil supports diverse vegetation, which in turn sustains a balanced arthropod population.



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



To mitigate these effects, the researchers suggest reintroducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grazing-succession-animal-herbivore-mass-migration-serengeti/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">native</a> herbivores and monitoring vector-borne diseases. Conservation policies should focus on balancing livestock grazing and preserving ecosystems.



“Currently, most of the commons are rather mismanaged, allowing people from villages to unsustainably utilise these commons for their livelihoods, and in the process denying the local herbivores their grazing areas,” said Baidya.



“Our study will hopefully be an example which may nudge governments to take serious steps for freeing up the commons first and then starting proper ecological restoration of these lands.”



Restoring wild herbivores and managing grazing lands could help rebuild ecosystems and reduce disease risks. 



These changes require action to protect biodiversity and maintain ecological balance. Sustainable land-use practices and better management of grazing areas can prevent further ecological disruption.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/eap.3091" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecological Applications</a>.



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Livestock grazing is changing soil, plants, and insect populations

In many parts of the world, traditional landscapes once dominated...

Fog harvesting may provide a crucial water source for people living in some of the planet’s driest regions.&nbsp;



By <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-technology-can-purify-water-as-it-is-collected-from-fog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">capturing moisture</a> from passing fog, this technique gathers droplets and channels them into storage, potentially easing shortages for those who have little or no connection to traditional water infrastructures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-water-solutions">Urban water solutions</h2>



The study was carried out by researchers at Chile’s <a href="https://www.umayor.cl/santiago" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad Mayor</a>, who examined whether fog harvesting could meet the needs of residents in informal settlements in the Atacama Desert.&nbsp;



“This research represents a notable shift in the perception of fog water use - from a rural, rather small-scale solution to a practical water resource for cities,” said Virginia Carter Gamberini, an assistant professor at Universidad Mayor and first co-author of the paper.



“Our findings demonstrate that fog can serve as a complementary urban water supply in drylands where climate change exacerbates water shortages.”



Characterized by annual rainfall below one mm, Chile’s Atacama Desert has extremely limited water resources. Cities in the region often rely on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-has-a-vital-role-in-ecosystem-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groundwater</a> reserves that were last recharged between 17,000 and 10,000 years ago.&nbsp;



The goal of the research was to see if fog harvesting - a passive system that collects atmospheric moisture on mesh panels - could help alleviate the water needs of rapidly expanding urban areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capturing-moisture-from-the-air">Capturing moisture from the air</h2>



 Fog collectors usually feature a mesh stretched between two posts. As fog rolls in, tiny droplets attach to the mesh, then trickle down into a collection gutter and onward to storage tanks. Because this setup requires no external power, it offers an appealing option in remote or infrastructure-poor environments.&nbsp;



The research team conducted a year-long study in Alto Hospicio, a municipality in the hyper-arid Atacama with a fast-growing population. Approximately 10,000 people in Alto Hospicio reside in informal settlements, and most depend on truck deliveries for their daily water.



“The collection and use of water, especially from non-conventional sources such as fog water, represents a key opportunity to improve the quality of life of inhabitants,” Carter said.&nbsp;



In the surrounding 100-square-kilometer area at higher altitudes, the researchers estimated a daily harvest potential of 0.2 to 5 liters of fog water per square meter, although fog density peaks in certain seasons. At times - such as August and September 2024 - fog yields jumped up to 10 liters per square meter each day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-adoption-of-fog-harvesting">Broader adoption of fog harvesting </h2>



“By showcasing its potential in Alto Hospicio, one of Chile’s most stigmatized yet rapidly urbanizing cities, this study lays the groundwork for broader adoption in other water-scarce urban areas,” said researcher Nathalie Verbrugghe of <a href="https://www.ulb.be/en/ulb-homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Université libre de Bruxelles</a>, also a first co-author of the article.&nbsp;



While the team emphasizes that fog harvesting alone will not solve chronic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-the-worlds-climate-driven-water-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water shortages</a>, they believe it can become part of a larger strategy for sustainable urban water management.



The scientists envision multiple uses for harvested fog, including drinking water and irrigation for communal gardens. They estimate that installing 17,000 square meters of mesh - capable of generating an average of 2.5 liters of water per square meter per day - could meet the weekly water needs (about 300,000 liters) for urban slums.&nbsp;



For irrigating city green spaces, 110 square meters would cover an annual requirement of approximately 100,000 liters. Even small-scale food production is possible: according to the study, fog water could fuel soil-free agriculture, producing 15 to 20 kg of leafy vegetables a month.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prerequisites-for-fog-harvesting">Prerequisites for fog harvesting </h2>



Fog harvesting is dependent on specific geographical and climatic conditions. “Key prerequisites include fog density, suitable wind patterns, and well-oriented elevated landforms. Additionally, since fog is seasonal in many regions, this variability should be considered,” Verbrugghe said.&nbsp;



Storage tanks, piping infrastructure, and distribution systems are likewise necessary to deliver the collected water where it is needed.



For large settlements, scalability becomes a critical question. If successful, fog harvesting would require significant planning, funding, and collaboration among local communities, government authorities, and possibly private sector partners.&nbsp;



Yet the technique’s minimal energy demand and adaptability make it an appealing option, especially for regions forecast to face ever more severe water stresses under <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-now-the-driving-force-behind-droughts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fog-harvesting-and-resource-planning">Fog harvesting and resource planning </h2>



Encouraged by their findings, the researchers aim to integrate fog harvesting into broader, renewable water resource planning. 



“We hope to encourage policymakers to integrate this renewable source into national water strategies,” Carter concluded. “This could enhance urban resilience to climate change and rapid urbanization while improving access to clean water.”



In places like the Atacama Desert, where traditional water supplies are both ancient and limited, fog harvesting could serve as a practical complement to existing resources.&nbsp;



By combining multiple solutions - from groundwater to desalination to advanced conservation methods - communities may be better equipped to cope with the increasingly harsh realities of water scarcity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fenvs.2025.1537058" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Environmental Science</a>.&nbsp;



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Fog harvesting could ease water shortages in the world’s driest places

Fog harvesting may provide a crucial water source for people...

For centuries, sea turtles have followed the rhythms of the ocean, returning to the same shores where they were born for nesting and to lay their eggs. These ancient creatures, some of which have existed since the time of the dinosaurs, have always relied on nature’s consistency. 



But now, the climate is changing faster than ever, and the turtles must adapt - or risk losing entire generations.



New research offers a glimpse into how these resilient animals are responding. Scientists monitoring green and loggerhead turtles in <a href="https://cyprusturtles.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cyprus</a> have observed a remarkable shift. These turtles are nesting earlier each year, a subtle yet crucial adjustment that could determine the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-sea-turtles-swim-and-choose-their-paths-instead-of-drifting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future of their species.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shift-in-turtles-nesting-patterns">Shift in turtles nesting patterns</h2>



Temperature plays a crucial role in determining the survival and sex ratio of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-turtles-use-earths-magnetic-field-like-an-invisible-map/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea turtle</a> hatchlings. Unlike mammals, sea turtles do not have genetically predetermined sexes at birth. 



Instead, the temperature of the sand where the eggs are incubated decides whether more males or females will hatch. Warmer sand results in a higher number of female hatchlings, while cooler sand leads to more males. 



However, when temperatures rise too much, it can become too hot for the eggs to develop properly, leading to fewer hatchlings surviving.



Another important factor in turtle reproduction is "natal philopatry," a behavior where turtles return to the same beach where they hatched to lay their own eggs. This strong instinct means they may struggle to find new nesting sites even if their birthplace becomes too warm for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-turtles-show-signs-of-recovery-but-conservation-issues-remain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">successful hatching</a>.



A research team from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> and the Society for the Protection of Turtles studied nesting patterns over three decades. Their data suggests that if temperatures keep rising at the current rate, loggerhead turtles could face severe reproductive challenges by 2100. 



Without adapting their nesting schedule and laying eggs earlier in the season, they may struggle to produce enough viable offspring to sustain their population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-s-impact-on-turtle-nesting">Temperature’s impact on turtle nesting</h2>



Researchers placed temperature loggers in nests while females were laying eggs. They later retrieved them after the hatchlings emerged. The data indicated that turtles need to adjust their nesting by 0.5 days per year to maintain the current sex ratio and by 0.7 days per year to prevent egg failures.



Fortunately, loggerhead turtles seem to be adapting. The study shows they have already been nesting 0.78 days earlier per year since 1993. This shift has helped maintain hatching success, at least for now.



“This is a bit of good news, as we’ve shown that these turtles are responding to the elevated temperatures brought about by climate change by shifting to cooler months to nest," Professor Annette Broderick explained.



"There is no guarantee that they carry on doing this though – it’s very much dependent on how much the temperature rises, and also what they are eating. If the timing of production in terms of where their food's coming from shifts, then they could start to be disconnected ecologically between where they forage and where they breed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adjusting-the-nesting-schedule">Adjusting the nesting schedule </h2>



The research team also examined over 600 green <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-celebrating-100-million-years-of-majesty/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles</a> nesting at a beach in North Cyprus. Their study aimed to understand what determines when these turtles start laying eggs each year.



The findings revealed that individual turtles adjust their nesting schedule based on sea temperature. 



For every 1°C rise in ocean temperature, they nested 6.47 days earlier. Temperature alone accounted for about 30% of this advancement. More experienced females and those laying multiple clutches also nested earlier.



“To know if the advancement we see now will continue into the future, it is crucial to understand the combined effects of changes in, for example, the age structure of the population, and how individual turtles respond to environmental change,” noted lead author Mollie Rickwood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-challenges-for-turtle-populations">Future challenges for turtle populations</h2>



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-turtle-day-protecting-turtles-tortoises-and-their-vanishing-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles</a> are currently adapting to temperature changes, long-term survival remains uncertain. Cyprus may eventually become too warm for nesting, though cooler locations in the Mediterranean might provide alternative sites.



“Although our turtles appear to be coping with current rising temperatures, it is unclear how long they may be able to do this before conditions in Cyprus are no longer suitable, but cooler locations in the Mediterranean may become available for them to nest,” said Dr. Damla Beton from the Society for the Protection of Turtles.



The findings were published in Endangered Species Research and <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.1809" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>.



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Beating the heat: How sea turtles cope with warming waters

For centuries, sea turtles have followed the rhythms of the...

Global temperature records have soared to unsettling highs, sparking justifiable concerns among climate watchers. Observers note that these extreme readings may represent the start of a warmer era rather than an isolated spike.



The Paris Agreement set an average temperature increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels as a critical limit for controlling climate damage. 



Early signals hint that we may be inching toward this threshold, raising questions about whether we can protect ecosystems from escalating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate impacts</a>.



William Ripple, a professor at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, emphasized the human toll of creeping temperature increases.



“Every fraction of a degree beyond this level translates into more extreme weather, biodiversity loss, and human suffering,” said Ripple.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-1-5-degrees-is-a-big-deal">Why 1.5 degrees is a big deal</h2>



Crossing 1.5 °C above pre-industrial temperatures goes beyond a mere statistical marker. 



It reveals how anthropogenic warming can transform local and regional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-confirmed-as-earths-hottest-year-in-recorded-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climates</a> in ways that directly affect public health, food security, and infrastructure.



Researchers warn that floods, extreme storms, and prolonged heat waves become more frequent as greenhouse gases accumulate. 



Slow changes, such as sea level rise, can also endanger cities along vulnerable coastlines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mounting-economic-costs">Mounting economic costs</h2>



Climate-related hazards carry a steep financial toll for households, businesses, and government agencies. Reinsurance firm <a href="https://www.swissre.com/press-release/Hurricanes-severe-thunderstorms-and-floods-drive-insured-losses-above-USD-100-billion-for-5th-consecutive-year-says-Swiss-Re-Institute/f8424512-e46b-4db7-a1b1-ad6034306352" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swiss Re</a> estimated that natural disasters exceeded US$135 billion in damage around the world in 2024.



Such losses strain global supply chains, complicate insurance coverage, and threaten property values in high-risk zones. 



Some economists believe the costs of recovery will increase even further if greenhouse gas emissions continue unchecked.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-from-short-term-data">Signs from short-term data</h2>



One warm year on the thermometer does not necessarily confirm a long-term breach of the Paris Agreement. 



Weather oscillations, including strong El Niño events, can temporarily elevate global temperatures above the norm.



However, a study in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-025-02246-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a> indicates that once the first year hits a 1.5 °C increase, the planet is likely within a multi-decade window at that level. 



The authors of the study note that strong emission cuts could still slow or halt further <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-related-health-concerns">Heat-related health concerns</h2>



As temperatures rise, heat-related ailments become more common, and hospital visits spike during severe heat waves. 



The threat also extends to biodiversity, as many species cannot adapt quickly to shifting temperature and precipitation patterns.



Marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, are especially sensitive to even slight <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-the-world-is-on-track-for-a-catastrophic-level-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature changes</a>. 



Some reefs can recover from moderate bleaching events, but repeated stress often leads to permanent damage and loss of marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-temperature-risks">Global temperature risks</h2>



The <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a> highlights the importance of limiting temperature rise to a global average of 1.5 °C or slightly above. 



Even half a degree beyond this limit can trigger non-linear impacts that become increasingly difficult to reverse.



Policy analysts often stress that climate goals work best when governments adopt clear targets with tangible deadlines. 



If international cooperation lags, the pace of warming could outstrip efforts to adapt and mitigate.



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



“Unless rapid action is taken, 2024 will be remembered not as an anomaly, but as the beginning of a new climate era - one defined by escalating risks,” said Ripple.



Researchers note that the use of renewables, clean transportation, and sustainable agricultural practices can curb emissions swiftly.&nbsp;



Other experts caution that delayed efforts might lock in further warming, creating a loop of intensified disasters and greater economic strain. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-temperature-solutions-exist">Global temperature solutions exist</h2>



A second study published in Nature Climate Change supports the idea that once temperatures breach 1.5 °C, more permanent exceedance may occur sooner than expected.



Some policymakers advocate carbon pricing and stronger efficiency standards to drive down emissions. 



Civil society groups, meanwhile, emphasize grassroots initiatives that help communities adapt and reduce fossil fuel dependence.



Local governments in coastal regions are reinforcing sea walls and updating building codes. Inland areas face different trials, such as droughts, wildfires, and shifting agricultural zones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choices-today-will-shape-the-future">Choices today will shape the future</h2>



Experts agree that the next few years could determine whether 1.5 °C becomes our new normal. If <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-meltdown-is-accelerating-global-warming-already-changing-earth-in-unimaginable-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> continue to rise, adaptation costs will likely become a growing burden on national budgets.



Yet, optimism remains that targeted policies, technological breakthroughs, and public engagement can keep warming in check. 



Whether or not this happens depends on collective action and bold leadership at every level of society.



Signs of crossing the 1.5 °C threshold should not trigger despair, but they do demand urgency. Choices made today about energy, transportation, and resource use will shape conditions for decades.



Communities worldwide stand at a critical juncture between decisive intervention and escalating risk. The ultimate outcome rests on how quickly we act in the face of rising temperatures.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-025-02246-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.



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Have global temperatures breached the 1.5°C point of no return?

Global temperature records have soared to unsettling highs, sparking justifiable...

Glaciers have long been a crucial part of Earth's climate system, acting as reservoirs of freshwater and influencing global sea levels. However, recent studies reveal an alarming trend - glaciers are melting at an unprecedented rate and losing vast amounts of ice.



This loss not only threatens water supplies in many regions but also accelerates the rise of sea levels, putting coastal communities at risk.



A major international study involving 35 research teams has provided new insights into the extent of glacier loss over the past two decades. 



The findings paint a troubling picture of rapid ice depletion across the world, with significant consequences for both local and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-are-reshaping-landscapes-and-national-borders-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global environments</a>.



The scale and speed of this transformation demand urgent attention from scientists, policymakers, and the global community.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-pace-of-ice-loss">Growing pace of ice loss</h2>



Since the year 2000, glaciers outside of Greenland and Antarctica have collectively lost an average of 273 billion tons of ice per year. However, this loss has not remained constant.



Data shows a 36% increase in ice loss between 2012 and 2023 compared to the earlier period from 2000 to 2011. 



This acceleration suggests that glaciers are becoming more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-glacier-retreat-in-the-arctic-signals-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerable to climate change</a>, with rising temperatures pushing them past critical thresholds.



In the year 2000, glaciers spanned a total area of 705,221 square kilometers (272,287 square miles) and held approximately 121,728 billion tons of ice. 



Over the past two decades, they have lost around 5% of their total volume. Some regions have experienced even greater losses, with Central Europe seeing a staggering 39% reduction in its glacier volume.



In contrast, glaciers in the Antarctic and Subantarctic islands have lost only 2% of their volume, highlighting the uneven impact of warming on different parts of the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-glacier-and-ice-sheet-loss">Comparing glacier and ice sheet loss</h2>



While much attention has been given to the melting of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets, the new research shows that glaciers are losing ice at an even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-half-of-the-worlds-glaciers-could-disappear-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">faster rate</a>. 



The total glacier mass loss recorded during the study period was 18% higher than the loss from the Greenland Ice Sheet and more than double that of the Antarctic Ice Sheet. 



This data challenges previous assumptions that glaciers contribute less to rising sea levels than polar ice sheets.



The increased glacier melt has profound consequences. As ice disappears, it not only reduces freshwater availability in some regions but also releases vast amounts of water into the oceans. 



This process directly contributes to sea-level rise, intensifying the risks faced by low-lying coastal cities and island nations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glambie-glacier-monitoring">Glambie glacier monitoring</h2>



To track these rapid changes, scientists turned to an ambitious research initiative called the Glacier Mass Balance Intercomparison Exercise, or Glambie. 



This global effort, coordinated by the World Glacier Monitoring Service (<a href="https://wgms.ch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WGMS</a>) at the <a href="https://www.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Zurich</a>, brings together data from multiple sources to create a unified picture of glacier mass loss.



“We compiled 233 estimates of regional glacier mass change from about 450 data contributors organised in 35 research teams,” explained Michael Zemp, who co-led the study.



Glambie integrates information from field measurements as well as satellite data from missions such as the <a href="https://terra.nasa.gov/about/terra-instruments/aster" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Terra/ASTER</a>, <a href="https://icesat-2.gsfc.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICESat-2</a>, the US-German <a href="https://grace.jpl.nasa.gov/mission/grace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GRACE</a>, the German TanDEM-X, and ESA’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FutureEO/CryoSat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CryoSat</a>. 



By combining optical, radar, laser, and gravimetry observations, scientists have created the most detailed annual record of glacier mass changes between 2000 and 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-ice-melt-threatens-water-supplies">Glacier ice melt threatens water supplies</h2>



Glacier melt is not just an environmental concern - it is a direct threat to freshwater availability.



Many communities depend on glacier-fed rivers for drinking water, agriculture, and hydropower. As glaciers shrink, their ability to provide a stable water supply diminishes, leaving millions of people vulnerable to shortages.



“To put this in perspective, the 273 billion tons of ice lost annually amounts to what the entire global population consumes in 30 years, assuming three liters per person and day,” noted glaciologist Prof. Zemp.



The loss of glacier ice is particularly concerning in regions such as Central Asia and the Central Andes, where glaciers play a crucial role in seasonal water supply. 



During the warm and dry months, glacier runoff sustains river flows, ensuring communities and ecosystems receive enough water.



Without this natural reservoir, many regions could face severe drought conditions in the coming decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glaciers-ice-loss-and-rising-seas">Glaciers, ice loss and rising seas</h2>



Beyond regional water concerns, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomsday-glacier-may-collapse-sooner-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> melt is a significant driver of global sea-level rise. 



Between 2000 and 2023, glaciers lost a total of 6,542 billion tonnes of ice, contributing 18 millimeters to rising ocean levels. 



The rate of ice loss has surged from 231 billion tons per year in the early 2000s to 314 billion tons per year in the past decade.



Glaciers now rank as the second-largest contributor to rising sea levels, surpassed only by ocean warming. 



They contribute more to sea-level rise than both the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets combined. This growing contribution underscores the urgency of addressing glacier melt in climate policy discussions.



“Glaciers are vital freshwater resources, especially for local communities in Central Asia and the Central Andes, where glaciers dominate runoff during warm and dry seasons,” said glaciologist Inés Dussaillant.



“But when it comes to sea-level rise, the Arctic and Antarctic regions, with their much larger glacier areas, are the key players. However, almost one-quarter of the glacier contribution to sea-level rise originates from Alaska.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-satellite-monitoring-for-future-research">Advancing satellite monitoring for future research</h2>



The findings from this research demonstrate the value of long-term satellite monitoring. While satellites were not initially designed to track glacier loss, scientists have successfully adapted them to measure changes in ice volume over time.



“The research is the result of sustained efforts by the community and by space agencies over many years, to exploit a variety of satellites that were not initially specifically designed for the task of monitoring glaciers globally,” said Noel Gourmelen, who co-led the study.



Future missions such as Europe’s Copernicus <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/CRISTAL_prepares_to_sparkle#" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CRISTAL mission</a> will build on the work of ESA’s CryoSat, ensuring that glacier monitoring remains a top priority. 



By improving data collection, these missions will help researchers better understand ice loss trends and their implications for global water systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-immediate-action">Need for immediate action</h2>



The study was funded primarily through ESA’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FutureEO" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FutureEO programme</a>, with additional support from the International Association for <a href="https://cryosphericsciences.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cryospheric Sciences</a> and various research institutions. Stephen Plummer, ESA Earth Observation Applications scientist, highlighted the importance of the research:



“We take great pride in supporting this vital research through our ESA Science for Society programme element as it brings together, for the first time, multiple estimates of glacier mass loss from different satellites and in situ observations through a community-driven approach," stated Plummer.



“These findings are not only crucial for advancing our scientific understanding of global glacier changes, but also provide a valuable baseline to help regions address the challenges of managing scarce freshwater resources and contribute to developing effective mitigation strategies to combat rising sea level," Plummer concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-critical-moment-for-glaciers">A critical moment for glaciers</h2>



The release of this study is particularly timely as 2025 marks the United Nations’ International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. 



The coming decade, designated as the Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences, will be crucial for addressing glacier melt and its far-reaching consequences.



With continued scientific research, improved satellite monitoring, and decisive global action, there is still hope for mitigating the worst effects of glacier loss. 



However, time is running out. The fate of the world’s glaciers - and the millions who rely on them - depends on the choices made today.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08545-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Glacier ice melting continues to accelerate, causing huge global problems

Glaciers have long been a crucial part of Earth's climate...

Health is often thought to be written in our genes, but a new study suggests otherwise. Researchers from Oxford Population Health have uncovered compelling evidence that environment plays a far greater role in determining health and longevity than genetic predisposition. 



The experts analyzed data from nearly half a million UK Biobank participants to examine how environmental influences compare with genetic risk scores for major diseases.



The findings challenge the common belief that genetic makeup determines <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forming-healthy-habits-takes-much-longer-than-21-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health outcomes</a>. Instead, lifestyle choices, socioeconomic conditions, and early-life exposures appear to shape the risk of developing diseases and experiencing premature death. 



This research provides fresh insight into how our environment affects biological aging and highlights opportunities to improve public health through changes in policy and personal habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-affects-health-and-aging">What affects health and aging?</h2>



The study showed that environmental factors explained 17 percent of the variation in mortality risk, while genetic predisposition accounted for less than 2 percent.



The researchers assessed 164 environmental factors and their effects on 22 major diseases, revealing that lifestyle and living conditions have a much stronger influence on long-term health than previously thought.



Among the key environmental factors identified, smoking, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and living conditions played the most significant roles in mortality and biological aging. 



The research also showed that early-life exposures, such as childhood body weight and maternal smoking, have long-term consequences, affecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-say-this-is-the-best-fruit-to-eat-for-a-healthier-liver/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> and longevity decades later.



“Our research demonstrates the profound health impact of exposures that can be changed either by individuals or through policies to improve socioeconomic conditions, reduce smoking, or promote physical activity,” noted Professor Cornelia van Duijn, senior author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-lifestyle-in-health-and-aging">Role of lifestyle in health and aging</h2>



The study examined how various lifestyle choices contribute to disease risk. Smoking emerged as a major factor, being linked to 21 different diseases. 



Socioeconomic factors, including household income, home ownership, and employment status, influenced 19 diseases. Physical activity also played a critical role, with associations found in 17 diseases.



Importantly, the research indicated that 23 of the identified environmental factors are modifiable, meaning that changes in behavior or policy could significantly reduce the risk of age-related diseases and premature death. 



The study also revealed that environmental influences had a greater effect on diseases affecting the lungs, heart, and liver, whereas genetic factors played a more prominent role in conditions such as dementias and breast cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-biological-aging">Measuring biological aging</h2>



To assess how environmental exposures accelerate aging, the researchers used a novel measurement tool known as the “aging clock.” 



This method tracks biological aging by analyzing blood protein levels, providing a more precise way to determine how fast an individual is aging.



“Our exposome approach allowed us to quantify the relative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-less-could-extend-your-lifespan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contributions</a> of the environment and genetics to aging, providing the most comprehensive overview to date of the environmental and lifestyle factors driving aging and premature death,” noted Dr. Austin Argentieri, lead author of the study.



This technique had already been validated in studies involving large cohorts from China and Finland, demonstrating its reliability in detecting age-related changes. 



The findings reinforce the idea that aging is not solely dictated by genetics but is significantly influenced by external factors, many of which can be adjusted to improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-avocado-every-day-diet-quality-can-add-years-to-life-but-this-fruit-has-enemies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health outcomes</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poorer-environments-increase-health-risks">Poorer environments increase health risks</h2>



One of the most striking aspects of the research is the impact of socioeconomic conditions on health and longevity. People with lower incomes, insecure housing, or unstable employment faced significantly higher risks of developing chronic illnesses and dying prematurely.



Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the <a href="https://www.bhf.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Heart Foundation</a>, stressed the urgent need for systemic change. 



“Your income, postcode, and background shouldn’t determine your chances of living a long and healthy life. But this pioneering study reinforces that this is the reality for far too many people,” he stated.



The study highlights the need for stronger public health policies aimed at reducing socioeconomic disparities.



Addressing issues such as income inequality, access to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthcare</a>, and education could have a profound effect on overall health outcomes, giving more people the opportunity to lead longer, healthier lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-population-health">Improving population health</h2>



Although individual lifestyle factors and environmental exposures each contribute to disease risk, their combined impact is even greater. The study found that the cumulative effect of these influences over a lifetime plays a major role in determining health outcomes. 



This concept, known as the exposome, highlights how long-term exposure to multiple environmental factors collectively shapes aging and mortality.



This research paves the way for new strategies aimed at improving population health by identifying key environmental factors that contribute to common age-related diseases. 



By understanding how different exposures interact, scientists and policymakers can develop more targeted interventions to reduce health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-environment-to-major-health-risks">Linking environment to major health risks</h2>



Professor van Duijn emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to studying environmental health. 



“Studies on environmental health have tended to focus on individual exposures based on a specific hypothesis. While this approach has seen many successes, the method has not always yielded reproducible and reliable findings,” she noted.



Instead, the researchers used a broader approach, analyzing all available exposures without preconceived hypotheses. This method allowed them to uncover the most significant drivers of disease and mortality, offering a clearer picture of how different factors contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ditch-the-diet-trends-for-a-healthier-relationship-with-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health outcomes</a>.



“We have made a big leap forward in understanding how to provide accurate evidence on the causes and consequences of age-related diseases by combining novel computational methods with clinical and epidemiological knowledge to explore the interplay between multiple exposures," said Professor van Duijn.



"In an ever-changing environment, it is critical that we combine these techniques with novel advances in smart technology to monitor lifestyle and environment, as well as with biological data, to understand the impact of the environment over time.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-health-and-aging">Rethinking health and aging </h2>



The study’s findings provide a strong case for shifting focus toward environmental and lifestyle interventions to improve health outcomes. 



There is still much to learn about how factors like diet, exposure to pollutants, and emerging infectious diseases affect long-term health. Researchers must continue investigating how different populations are impacted by environmental and genetic interactions.



“There are a lot of questions still to be answered related to diet, lifestyle, and exposure to new pathogens (such as bird flu and COVID-19) and chemicals (think of pesticides and plastics), and the impact of environmental and genetic factors in different populations,” said Professor van Duijn.



By shedding light on the profound impact of environmental factors on aging and disease, this study presents an opportunity to rethink how health is managed on both personal and policy levels. 



With greater emphasis on reducing harmful exposures and improving living conditions, society has the potential to extend healthy lifespans and reduce premature mortality.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-024-03483-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Medicine</a>.



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Beyond genetics: The biggest factors that influence health and aging

Health is often thought to be written in our genes,...

The chemicals in sunscreens are increasingly present in the ocean, but much about their impact on marine life remains poorly understood. This is the conclusion of a new study from Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the University of Plymouth.&nbsp;



With sunscreen now integral not only to health care but also to various products - ranging from personal care to industrial materials - experts worry about the large-scale release of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-acid-in-our-skin-could-be-a-natural-sunscreen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compounds</a> into coastal waters and the long-term consequences for aquatic ecosystems.



“This review highlights the mindboggling range of sunscreen-derived chemicals that we know are released into coastal marine environments – and demonstrates that our understanding of the effects of these toxic compounds on marine organisms is surprisingly limited,” said co-author Frances Hopkins, a marine biogeochemist at the <a href="https://pml.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plymouth Marine Laboratory</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-sunscreen-pollution-enters-the-ocean">How sunscreen pollution enters the ocean</h2>



Sunscreens use UV filters - either organic (chemical-based) or inorganic (mineral-based) - to absorb or scatter ultraviolet rays. Beyond sunscreens, such filters are added to various items including shampoos, moisturizers, lipsticks, plastics, rubber, paint, and cement, helping protect them from solar damage.



Because of modern lifestyles, these compounds inevitably find their way into marine environments through direct and indirect exposure.&nbsp;



Direct exposure occurs when people swimming or diving carry sunscreen-laden water off their skin directly into the sea. Indirect exposure happens when residue is washed off during showers, laundering towels, and even through urine.&nbsp;



Additionally, recycled wastewater plays a role, as some agricultural practices use treated water or sludge, which can deposit UV filter contaminants into soil and eventually run off into rivers and coasts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enormous-scale-of-sunscreen-pollution">Enormous scale of sunscreen pollution</h2>



Traditional wastewater treatment cannot effectively remove many UV filter chemicals. Data show organic UV filters in 95% of wastewater effluents and 86% of surface waters worldwide.&nbsp;



They have been found not only in tourist-heavy beach areas but also in remote regions like Antarctica and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trace-amounts-of-sunscreen-found-at-the-north-pole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a>, highlighting their pervasive reach.



As global sunscreen sales are projected to reach $13.64 billion by 2026, researchers estimate 6,000-14,000 tons of UV filters wash into coral reef zones every year.&nbsp;



Many filters, especially benzophenones, have been deemed persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic. Benzophenone-3, in particular, is on the <a href="https://echa.europa.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Chemical Agency</a>’s watch list as a potential hormone disruptor.



“There are increasing amounts and varieties of sunscreens entering the environment, and contaminants occur in all possible combinations,” said Awadhesh Jha, a professor in genetic toxicology and ecotoxicology at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth </a>and the study’s senior author.&nbsp;



“It is therefore imperative that we understand their bioaccumulation potential across the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-twilight-zone-stabilizes-the-marine-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food chain</a>, and the mechanisms through which they act at molecular and cellular levels, alone and in combination with other stressors.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-chemistry-with-unknown-effects">Complex chemistry with unknown effects</h2>



A single sunscreen can contain three to eight UV filter compounds, adding up to 15% of the product’s mass. Organic filters - up to 55 different types exist - work by absorbing UV radiation, while inorganic filters like titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO) reflect it.&nbsp;



Each compound has different properties, toxicities, and solubilities, complicating efforts to understand how these chemicals behave once in the ocean.



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117627" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Pollution Bulletin</a>, involved a review of over 110 publications related to sunscreen, UV filters, and their ecological or toxicological impacts.&nbsp;



The researchers note that at least 25% of a sunscreen’s UV filters wash off during swimming, and a single busy beach can see up to 35 kilograms of sunscreen deposited into the water per day.



“We are essentially sitting on a ticking time bomb,” said study co-author Mahasweta Saha, a marine chemical ecologist at Plymouth Marine Laboratory. “It is crucial to exercise caution in introducing new substances, as they could exacerbate existing challenges.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-research-is-urgently-needed">More research is urgently needed</h2>



Despite broad commercial use, little is known about the long-term ecotoxicological effects of these compounds, especially regarding their potential to bioaccumulate in the food chain.&nbsp;



Marine ecosystems already face pressures such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-ocean-warming-in-2024-is-a-warning-for-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean warming</a>, acidification, marine heatwaves, and eutrophication. The addition of poorly understood chemicals could worsen the strain on marine organisms.



“It is therefore imperative that we understand their bioaccumulation potential across the food chain, and the mechanisms through which they act,” Jha emphasized. 



This includes gauging effects at the molecular level - understanding if they disrupt hormones, reproductive cycles, or growth - and how multiple stressors might interact to amplify harm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precautionary-measures-are-needed">Precautionary measures are needed</h2>



The scientists call for coordinated, science-based policy actions to address the threats of sunscreen pollution.



They recommend improved wastewater treatments to remove UV filters, the development of biodegradable sunscreens, and enhanced monitoring to track sunscreen-derived pollutants in global coastal areas.



The study further recommends adopting a precautionary approach, acknowledging that while sunscreens protect human health, they also risk harming fragile marine life including corals, fish, and other sea creatures vital to the ecosystem.



Thus, as oceans become repositories for countless chemical compounds, unraveling the complex interactions among UV filters is critical. Failing to act could intensify existing stresses on marine habitats, with possible ramifications for seafood safety and the broader health of our planet’s waters.



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Sunscreen pollution is invading the ocean - with unknown consequences 

The chemicals in sunscreens are increasingly present in the ocean,...

The natural world has long adapted to Earth’s changing climate, but there are limits to what living organisms can withstand. Plants, in particular, play a crucial role in maintaining the planet’s balance by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. 



However, new research suggests that rising temperatures may push <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-release-carbon-faster-than-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> beyond their limits, altering their ability to regulate the environment.



Scientists have traditionally believed that plants conserve water by closing their pores during extreme heat. 



But Dr. Sean Michaletz, a botany professor at the <a href="https://www.ubc.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a>, has uncovered a surprising reality.



His research suggests that plants lose more water than expected, potentially weakening their role in climate regulation. If these findings are accurate, they could reshape how we predict future warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-help-control-carbon-and-water-cycles">Plants help control carbon and water cycles</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a> are essential to life on Earth. Through photosynthesis, they take in carbon dioxide, convert it into energy, and release oxygen. 



This process allows them to function as a carbon sink, absorbing greenhouse gases that would otherwise contribute to global warming.



In addition to their role in carbon absorption, plants regulate the water cycle. They release water vapor into the atmosphere, which helps cool the planet and maintain humidity levels. 



However, as temperatures rise, this delicate balance may be shifting in unexpected ways.



Dr. Michaletz’s research suggests that rising heat forces plants to lose more water through their cuticle, a waxy layer on their leaves. 



Unlike their pores, which can close to prevent water loss, the cuticle remains open. The thinner the cuticle, the more water a plant loses.



This process could reduce photosynthesis, limit carbon absorption, and even turn plants into carbon sources under extreme conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-risk-of-plant-water-loss">Hidden risk of plant water loss</h2>



For decades, scientists assumed that plants primarily lost water through their pores, which could close during dry or hot conditions. 



This belief shaped climate models and water cycle predictions. However, new findings indicate that cuticle-based water loss may be more significant than previously thought.



“When temperatures rise, plants lose more water through their cuticle than through their pores,” explained Dr. Michaletz. “This limits their ability to absorb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-soils-release-more-carbon-than-plants-can-replace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> and reduces their role as a carbon sink.”



In extreme heat, plants may struggle to maintain photosynthesis, absorbing less carbon while continuing to release water. 



If temperatures climb too high, forests and other ecosystems could shift from storing carbon to emitting it. This shift would accelerate climate change and disrupt global ecosystems.



Dr. Michaletz estimates that a single medium-sized leaf exposed to 50°C could lose about one-third of a teaspoon of water per day through its cuticle. 



Scaled up to an entire forest, this effect could significantly alter global water and carbon cycles.



Current climate models may underestimate this impact, leading scientists to reassess predictions for future warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-heat-can-make-plants-stop-working">Extreme heat can make plants stop working</h2>



Not all plants respond to heat in the same way. Some species can tolerate extreme temperatures, while others begin to suffer as soon as conditions become too warm. 



A study conducted in Vancouver examined 200 plant species to determine their heat tolerance.



“Our research suggests that photosynthesis starts to break down between 40 and 51°C,” said Dr. Michaletz. “During the 2021 heat dome, temperatures soared to 49.6°C, pushing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-carbon-sinks-are-being-pushed-to-their-limits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> to their limits.”



If temperatures continue rising, plants could reach a critical breaking point. The research team estimates that 60°C may be the maximum temperature plants can survive. 



Beyond this threshold, proteins inside plant cells break down, leading to irreversible damage and eventual death.



While some desert and tropical plants have evolved to withstand extreme heat, most species do not have the same resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-may-turn-into-carbon-sources">Plants may turn into carbon sources</h2>



Understanding how heat affects plant life is essential for predicting climate change. If plants reach their temperature limits, they may stop <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-absorb-31-more-co2-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorbing carbon dioxide</a> and instead release it, contributing to warming rather than slowing it.



“Globally, researchers are working to determine the ‘tipping point’ where Earth’s vegetation releases more carbon dioxide than it absorbs, switching from a carbon sink to a carbon source,” said Dr. Michaletz.



“Our estimates suggest this could happen around 30°C, though key uncertainties remain - especially how microclimates and water availability affect photosynthesis under extreme heat.”



With Earth’s average temperature already at 16°C, this threshold may be closer than expected. If plant ecosystems begin releasing more carbon than they store, global temperatures could rise even faster than current models predict.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-biosphere-2">Lessons from Biosphere 2</h2>



The relationship between plants and the environment has long fascinated scientists, leading to experiments that test how vegetation responds to extreme conditions. 



One of the most ambitious projects in ecological research was <a href="https://biosphere2.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biosphere 2</a>, an enclosed facility designed to simulate an independent ecosystem.



As a postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Michaletz worked at Biosphere 2, which was originally created as a self-sustaining environment. 



Scientists, known as biospherians, were sealed inside to see if humans could survive without external oxygen or supplies.



“Biosphere 2 later transitioned into a research and public education center, where I studied how high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-climate-changes-have-drastic-effects-on-tropical-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures affect plants</a> in its experimental rainforest,” said Dr. Michaletz.



The original experiment revealed unexpected challenges. Carbon dioxide levels rose due to chemical reactions within the facility, and prolonged isolation caused psychological stress among participants. 



These unexpected results highlighted the complexities of maintaining an artificial environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-close-are-we-to-the-limit">How close are we to the limit?</h2>



Plants have survived shifts in climate for millions of years, but they are not invincible. 



They have upper limits, set by the physical laws governing their biological processes. While some plants have adapted to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-climates-force-plants-to-compete-with-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survive heat stress</a>, many others cannot withstand prolonged extreme temperatures.



Scientists are now working to pinpoint exactly when and where vegetation will begin to struggle under rising global temperatures. 



Some recent measurements suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-diverse-crops-traps-carbon-and-boosts-soil-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> may already be approaching dangerous heat thresholds.



If global warming continues unchecked, plants may lose their ability to regulate the carbon in the environment, triggering a chain reaction of climate feedback loops.



The question now is not whether plants will be affected by rising temperatures, but how soon the consequences will be felt. 



Understanding these limits is crucial for predicting the future of Earth’s ecosystems and the role plants will play in a rapidly warming world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.20346" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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Plants may stop absorbing carbon if temperatures continue to rise

The natural world has long adapted to Earth’s changing climate,...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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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

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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



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



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Plants help remove heavy metals from contaminated soil

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

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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;



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



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

Weeds are becoming increasingly resistant to herbicides

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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



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



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

NASA monitors giant dust storms on Mars

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