The benefits of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression reportedly endures for years, if not forever. 



In a new analysis of people who took part in a 2020 psilocybin clinical trial, 67 percent were still in full remission from depression an average of five years later - up from 58 percent at the one-year mark.



Study lead author Alan Davis is an associate professor and director of the <a href="https://www.cpdre.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education</a> at The Ohio State University.



“Across the board - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-microbes-have-an-unexpected-link-to-anxiety/">anxiety</a>, depression, global functioning, self-reported depression - we kept seeing the same signal of continued improvement," said Davis.



The follow-up results offer a rare long view of outcomes after psychedelic-assisted therapy, an area where long-term data are still sparse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-psilocybin-the-basics">Understanding psilocybin - the basics</h2>



Psilocybin is a natural compound found in certain mushrooms, often called “magic mushrooms.” When you ingest psilocybin, your body quickly converts it into psilocin, the active form that interacts with your brain. 



Psilocin closely resembles <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dopamine-and-serotonin-shape-behavior/">serotonin</a>, a key neurotransmitter, so it binds to serotonin receptors - especially the 5-HT2A receptor. 



This binding alters the way nerve cells communicate, which leads to changes in perception, mood, and thought patterns. 



From a scientific standpoint, psilocybin disrupts the brain’s usual patterns of activity and connectivity. 



Brain imaging studies show that it quiets the “default mode network,” a system linked to self-reflection and the inner voice we all carry. 



At the same time, it boosts communication between brain regions that don’t normally interact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-curing-depression-with-psilocybin">Curing depression with psilocybin</h2>



The peer-reviewed study, published in 2021, enrolled adults with major depressive disorder and compared two groups: one received psilocybin treatment immediately, and the other started after a wait-list period.



All the participants ultimately completed a standardized protocol: two dosing sessions with psilocybin paired with about 13 hours of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychotherapy-is-key-to-the-success-of-psychedelic-treatment/">psychotherapy</a> (including preparation, support during sessions, and integration).



The initial results showed large reductions in depression severity, with half of participants in remission up to one year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-patients-over-time">Tracking patients over time</h2>



Of the 24 people in the original trial, 18 took part in the five-year check-in. Online questionnaires were used to assess depression, anxiety, and functional impairment. 



The researchers also applied a clinician-rated depression scale and conducted qualitative interviews to capture changes the numbers might miss.



The team made a conservative assumption to avoid overstating success. They counted the six who did not return as having fully relapsed to pre-treatment levels.



Even under that assumption, depression scores remained “very large and significantly” reduced at five years, Davis noted, and the share of participants in complete remission nudged upward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-psilocybin">More than psilocybin</h2>



The lasting gains cannot be chalked up solely to the two psilocybin sessions. Only three people reported no additional depression-related treatment in the years since. 



Others used antidepressant medications, tried <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ketamine-treatment-may-now-last-months-instead-of-weeks/">ketamine</a> or other psychedelics, or engaged in psychotherapy.



Interviews helped explain that context. Many participants described life with depression as profoundly constricted before the trial - too little energy, too little hope to engage. 



Afterward, several said their depression felt more situational and manageable. They reported a greater capacity for positive emotion and motivation, and a different relationship to low moods when they returned.



A few who experimented with psychedelics on their own found the experiences less helpful without a clinical framework. This underscores a theme from other work by Davis and colleagues: the therapeutic container matters.



A strong alliance with trained therapists, structured preparation, and integration support may play as big a role as the drug itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-safety-over-time">Psilocybin safety over time</h2>



At the five-year mark, 11 of 18 participants reported no adverse effects since the trial. Looking back, three remembered feeling unprepared for the heightened emotional sensitivity that followed their dosing sessions. 



Two said tapering off <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cure-for-alcohol-addiction-was-discovered-by-accident/">medications</a> and waiting during the original trial was especially difficult, and two wished they’d had more formal integration therapy afterward.



The study is small, non-randomized at follow-up, and based on a motivated sample - limitations the authors emphasize.



With just 18 people contributing long-term data, it’s impossible to generalize broadly or disentangle psilocybin’s contribution from other treatments and life changes.



Larger, placebo-controlled trials with systematic follow-up will be needed to test durability, dosing strategies, and who benefits most.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-depression-and-healthcare">Psilocybin, depression, and healthcare</h2>



Even with the study's limitations, the pattern is encouraging. Many participants maintained remission or continued to function better. 



Several described a shift that outlasted symptom scores - more engagement with family, work, and meaningful activities, and fewer episodes of withdrawal and isolation, which are among depression’s most disabling features.



“Five years later, most people continued to view this treatment as safe, meaningful, and important - something that catalyzed an ongoing betterment of their life,” Davis said.



“Despite some symptoms coming back, they weren’t experiencing the same levels of impairment - suggesting this approach might, for some, kick-start lasting positive change.”



The bottom line: psilocybin-assisted therapy remains experimental, and it’s not a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-gut-bacteria-morganella-morganii-could-cause-depression-not-a-brain-disorder/">depression</a> cure-all. But in this small cohort, the combination of guided psychedelic sessions and psychotherapy was associated with durable relief - and in many cases, a different relationship to depression - years down the road.



The study is published in the <a href="https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/aop/article-10.1556-2054.2025.00461/article-10.1556-2054.2025.00461.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Psychedelic Studies</a>.



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Patients report no signs of depression five years after psilocybin treatment

The benefits of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression reportedly endures for years, if not forever. In a new analysis of people who took part in a 2020 psilocybin clinical trial, 67 percent were still in full remission from depression an average of five years later - up from 58 percent at the one-year mark. Study lead author Alan Davis is an associate professor and director of the Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education at The Ohio State University. “Across the board - anxiety, depression, global functioning,...

If you enjoy the vibrant colors of wildflowers,&nbsp;the sweet taste of honey,&nbsp;or the juicy crunch of an apple,&nbsp;you have pollinators to thank.&nbsp;These creatures,&nbsp;including bees,&nbsp;butterflies,&nbsp;wasps,&nbsp;and even some birds and bats, play a crucial role in our ecosystem and food production.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;these vital <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-twist-in-the-evolution-of-plant-pollinator-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> are facing an unprecedented crisis due to climate change.&nbsp;



Their populations are declining worldwide at an alarming rate. A new study,&nbsp;led by Dr.&nbsp;Johanne Brunet and Dr.&nbsp;Fabiana Fragoso,&nbsp;paints a grim picture of the multiple stressors impacting pollinators,&nbsp;many of which are a direct result of human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-impact-on-pollinators">Climate change impact on pollinators</h2>



"This review introduces the diversity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-pollinators-wild-bees-boosts-food-supply-income/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>,&nbsp;addresses the main drivers of pollinator decline,&nbsp;and presents strategies to reduce their negative impacts," said Dr.&nbsp;Brunet.&nbsp;



"We discuss how managed bees negatively affect wild bee species,&nbsp;and examine the impact of habitat loss,&nbsp;pesticide use,&nbsp;pests and pathogens,&nbsp;pollution,&nbsp;and climate change on pollinator decline.&nbsp;Connections between humans and pollinator decline are also addressed."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-loss-to-food-insecurity">Biodiversity loss to food insecurity</h2>



The decline of pollinators has far-reaching consequences. It not only threatens biodiversity but also jeopardizes crop yields and food security. 



According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (<a href="https://www.ipbes.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPBES</a>), a staggering 16% of vertebrate pollinators, such as birds and bats, and 40% of invertebrate pollinators, including bees and butterflies, are at risk of extinction. 



This alarming decline could lead to a significant reduction in the availability and variety of food sources, particularly fruits and vegetables that rely on pollination for reproduction.



Without these pollinators, plants would struggle to produce the seeds and fruits necessary for their survival and propagation. This decline would not only diminish our diets but also disrupt entire ecosystems that depend on these plants. The loss of pollinators could cause a ripple effect, impacting other species and leading to a less diverse and resilient environment.



"In the absence of pollinators,&nbsp;the human diet will shift towards a preponderance of wheat,&nbsp;rice,&nbsp;oat,&nbsp;and corn,&nbsp;as these are wind-pollinated crops," said Dr.&nbsp;Fragoso.&nbsp;"Crops that reproduce vegetatively,&nbsp;such as bananas,&nbsp;will be maintained."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-complex-threats-to-pollinators">Climate change and complex threats to pollinators</h2>



The decline of pollinators is not a simple issue with a single cause. It's a complex web of interconnected factors, each contributing to the overall crisis. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change">Climate change</h3>



Climate change, with its associated changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, disrupts the delicate balance of pollinator habitats and food sources. These changes can alter blooming periods of plants and the availability of nectar and pollen, which are critical for pollinators' survival.



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



The problem is further exacerbated by habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanization, leaving pollinators with fewer places to forage and reproduce. Concrete and asphalt replace natural habitats, reducing areas where pollinators can thrive. This habitat fragmentation isolates pollinator populations, making it difficult for them to find mates and maintain genetic diversity.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pesticides-and-herbicides">Pesticides and herbicides </h3>



The widespread use of pesticides and herbicides in agriculture also takes a toll on pollinators. Pesticides can be toxic to pollinators, killing them outright or impairing their ability to forage and reproduce. 



Herbicides reduce the availability of wildflowers and other plants that provide essential food sources. These chemicals create a hostile environment for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollution-prevents-nighttime-pollinators-from-finding-flowers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>, making it difficult for them to survive and thrive.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasive-species-and-disease">Invasive species and disease</h3>



Additionally, pollinator populations are impacted by the introduction of non-native species and diseases. Invasive species can outcompete native pollinators for resources, while new diseases can spread rapidly and decimate populations. 



This combination of factors creates a challenging environment for pollinators, contributing to their decline and threatening the ecosystems that depend on them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-practices-and-global-cooperation">Sustainable practices and global cooperation</h2>



While the situation is dire,&nbsp;there is still hope for pollinators.&nbsp;The researchers emphasize the importance of adopting sustainable agricultural practices that minimize the use of harmful chemicals and promote biodiversity.&nbsp;They also advocate for integrated pollinator management strategies that consider both wild and managed bee populations.



"Widespread use of sustainable practices in agriculture,&nbsp;and further development of integrated pollinator management strategies,&nbsp;eco-friendly strategies including reduction of pesticide use,&nbsp;will help preserve pollinators," said Dr.&nbsp;Fragoso.



"Potential adverse effects of managed bees on the local wild bee populations must be mitigated.&nbsp;Non-lethal collection methods should be developed and adopted globally in response to the increasing need for base-line pollinator data collection."



Addressing the threat of climate change is also crucial. Climate change affects pollinators by altering their habitats and the availability of food resources. It changes temperature and precipitation patterns, which can disrupt the life cycles of both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-that-90-of-flowering-plant-species-rely-on-animal-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> and the plants. This can lead to mismatches in timing, such as when plants bloom and when pollinators are active, reducing pollination.



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



The decline of pollinators is a global crisis that requires urgent action.&nbsp;We can all play a role in supporting these essential creatures.&nbsp;By planting pollinator-friendly gardens,&nbsp;supporting sustainable agriculture,&nbsp;and advocating for policies that protect pollinators and their habitats,&nbsp;we can help ensure a future where both pollinators and humans can thrive.



"Measures must keep being implemented to reduce climate change and prevent its serious negative impacts on pollinators.&nbsp;Climate change has the most diverse negative impacts on pollinators and is the threat most difficult to control.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;its consequences threaten food security and world stability,&nbsp;thus efforts to control it must be prioritized at a global scale," noted Dr.&nbsp;Brunet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/10.1079/cabireviews.2024.0016" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CABI Reviews</a>.



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Most pollinators face extinction risk due to climate change

If you enjoy the vibrant colors of wildflowers,&nbsp;the sweet taste...

Pillbug,Sow,Bug,Isopoda,Oniscus,Wood,Louse

Woodlice, often much smaller than the typical seed-dispersing fauna, play some of the most critical roles in the ecosystem. 



This concept was recently highlighted by researchers from Kobe University, who unveiled that these tiny creatures can effectively <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/competition-nutrients-faster-plant-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disperse seeds</a> after ingestion. 



Their studies set a new record for the smallest animals known to participate in this vital ecological process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intricacies-of-seed-dispersal">Intricacies of seed dispersal</h2>



Plants have evolved to produce fruits that attract animals, which consume and later deposit their seeds far from the original source. 



This dispersal strategy is crucial for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plants-disperse-their-seeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant reproduction</a> and diversity. 



The seeds must be appealing and accessible to potential dispersers, durable enough to withstand the digestive process, and appropriately sized to pass through the animal. 



Surprisingly, research has primarily focused on mammals and birds, overlooking the potential roles of smaller invertebrates like woodlice in this process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-mysteries-of-the-silver-dragon-plant">Exploring the mysteries of the "silver dragon" plant</h2>



The focus of the <a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> team was a unique plant known as the "silver dragon," which thrives across East Asia. 



This non-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesizing</a> plant depends on fungi and produces tiny, resilient seeds within its fleshy fruits. 



The research aimed to explore unknown methods of seed dispersal due to the minimal information available on how the silver dragon plant's seeds are spread. 



Through automated nighttime photography and controlled feeding experiments, the team observed that camel crickets were the primary consumers of the fruit. 



Remarkably, these crickets not only consumed over half of the fruits but also had the highest seed viability post-digestion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-woodlice-and-earwigs-unlikely-allies-in-seed-dispersal">Woodlice and earwigs: unlikely allies in seed dispersal</h2>



Unexpectedly, woodlice and earwigs also showed significant involvement in seed dispersal, with more than 30 percent of the ingested seeds surviving the process. 



This finding is particularly notable as it challenges the conventional view of these creatures solely as seed predators. 



Instead, it suggests a mutualistic relationship where these invertebrates help in seed dispersal, potentially increasing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-diversity-may-never-fully-recover-from-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant diversity</a> and ecological resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-conservation-the-impact-of-tiny-seed-dispersers">Rethinking conservation: the impact of tiny seed dispersers</h2>



Kenji Suetsugu of Kobe University emphasizes the broader significance of these findings. 



"The identification of novel seed dispersal agents among small invertebrates prompts a reevaluation of conservation strategies. It underscores the necessity to preserve diverse habitats that support a wide range of species, including those previously overlooked as ecologically insignificant," he explains. 



The team is optimistic about uncovering similar dispersal mechanisms in other plant species, which could reveal a previously unrecognized ecological phenomenon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Woodlice and the call for inclusive conservation strategies</h2>



This research spotlights the vital roles that even the smallest creatures like woodlice play in our ecosystems and underscores the need for a broader perspective in conservation strategies. 



Recognizing the contributions of all species, regardless of their size, this study, published in the journal 'Plants, People, Planet,' challenges the scientific community and conservationists to rethink how we perceive and protect biodiversity. 



Through such innovative studies, we continue to uncover the complex and often surprising interactions that sustain life on our planet.



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



Also known as pill bugs or roly-polies, woodlice are small, gray, or brown creatures that scurry around in gardens, forests, and even homes. 



Despite their appearance, these creatures are not insects but rather crustaceans, more closely related to shrimp and crabs than to bugs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Habitat and behavior</h3>



Woodlice thrive in damp, dark environments such as under rocks, logs, or leaf litter. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead plant material and recycling nutrients back into the soil. These creatures are nocturnal and often hide during the day to avoid predators and maintain moisture.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Unique defense mechanism</h3>



One fascinating feature of woodlice is their ability to roll up into a tight ball when threatened, hence the nickname "roly-poly." This defense mechanism protects their vulnerable underside and makes it difficult for predators to consume them.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Benefits to gardens</h3>



In addition to plant seed dispersal, as discussed above, gardeners appreciate woodlice for their role in decomposition and soil aeration. As they feed on dead plant matter, they contribute to the formation of nutrient-rich soil that supports plant growth. Additionally, their burrowing activity helps to improve soil structure and drainage.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Keeping woodlice in check</h3>



While woodlice are generally beneficial, an excessive population can occasionally damage young plants. To control their numbers, gardeners can reduce moisture levels in the garden, remove hiding places like debris, and maintain good soil drainage. However, in most cases, woodlice coexist peacefully with plants and contribute to a healthy garden ecosystem.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.10519" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants People Planet</a>.



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Tiny woodlice prove to be crucial players in plant seed dispersal

Woodlice, often much smaller than the typical seed-dispersing fauna, play...

Ever heard of plants <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bioluminescent-plants-gene-discovery-now-available-for-any-home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glowing</a>? No, it's not a scene from a sci-fi movie. Plants have a hidden talent – they emit a faint, invisible light known as solar-induced fluorescence (SIF). It's like a secret language, whispering tales of their health and activity. 



NASA scientists are eavesdropping from space, using satellites like the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (<a href="https://ocov2.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OCO-2</a>) to decode these luminous messages and predict flash droughts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flash-droughts">Flash droughts</h2>



Flash droughts, as their name suggests, strike with lightning speed. Unlike traditional droughts that develop over months, these stealthy adversaries can parch the land in mere weeks, leaving farmers and ecosystems scrambling. These sudden and intense droughts come without warning, rapidly drying out soil and vegetation.



Remember the devastating 2012 drought across the U.S.? That was a flash drought, causing widespread crop failure and resulting in a staggering $30 billion in agricultural losses. The rapid onset and severe impact of flash droughts make them particularly challenging to manage and predict.



Predicting these disasters has been a challenge, until now. Scientists have struggled to find reliable early warning signs for flash droughts, leaving farmers vulnerable to sudden and severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/computational-tools-may-improve-the-future-of-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water shortages</a>. However, recent advancements in technology and research have provided a breakthrough. 



By monitoring plant fluorescence and soil moisture from space, researchers can now detect early signs of flash droughts, offering valuable lead time for mitigation efforts. This innovation marks a significant step forward in our ability to combat this unpredictable threat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-glow-linked-to-flash-drought">Plant glow linked to flash drought</h2>



In a recent study, NASA researchers uncovered a surprising pattern. Before a flash drought strikes, plants go through a sudden and intense growth spurt. 



During this period, they absorb carbon dioxide at an accelerated rate, almost as if they are preparing for an impending shortage. 



This frantic feeding frenzy results in a significant increase in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-glow-co2-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar-induced fluorescence</a> (SIF) signal, which creates an unusual glow detectable by satellites from space.



This unexpected growth surge, however, is a double-edged sword. While the rapid growth indicates healthy and thriving plants, it also has a hidden cost. 



As plants vigorously absorb water to support their accelerated growth, they rapidly deplete the soil moisture. 



This depletion leaves the soil dry and vulnerable. When extreme heat strikes, the already diminished moisture levels plummet further, setting the stage for a flash drought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-plant-glow">Significance of plant glow</h2>



The rapid depletion of soil moisture due to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-leaves-send-signals-to-their-roots-on-dry-days-telling-them-to-keep-digging-deeper-for-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a>' growth spurt acts as a precursor to the flash drought. The plants' initial thriving phase, marked by the intense SIF signal, is followed by a sudden downturn as the drought takes hold. 



This pattern of initial growth followed by rapid drying highlights the complex and interconnected nature of flash droughts, making early detection and prediction crucial for mitigating their impacts.



"Plant fluorescence shows promise as a reliable early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-and-boreal-ecosystems-are-becoming-increasingly-unstable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warning indicator</a> of flash drought with enough lead time to take action," explains Nicholas Parazoo, NASA Earth Scientist.



This discovery is a game-changer.&nbsp;By monitoring the SIF signal,&nbsp;scientists can potentially predict flash droughts weeks or even months in advance,&nbsp;giving farmers and water managers a crucial head start in preparing for the dry spell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-sif-signal">Beyond SIF signal</h2>



The SIF signal is just one piece of the puzzle. To confirm their findings, the scientists turned to another NASA satellite, <a href="https://smap.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SMAP</a> (Soil Moisture Active Passive). 



SMAP measures soil moisture from space, and its data perfectly matched the pattern revealed by the glowing plants. 



When the SIF signal was high, SMAP showed a corresponding decrease in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drying-without-dying-desert-moss-holds-the-key-to-drought-tolerance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil moisture</a> in the weeks leading up to a flash drought. This correlation held true across diverse landscapes, from forests to grasslands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-cycle-and-flash-droughts">Carbon cycle and flash droughts</h2>



The study also shed light on how flash droughts impact the carbon cycle. Plants are natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-cleverly-adapt-their-photosynthesis-to-changes-in-light/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a>. This process is crucial in reducing atmospheric carbon levels. 



However, as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomato-plants-use-their-roots-to-ration-water-during-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought stress</a> sets in, plants' ability to capture carbon diminishes. The stress from drought conditions hampers their photosynthetic activity, leading to a reduced intake of carbon dioxide.



The researchers anticipated a noticeable spike in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels during flash droughts due to the decreased carbon uptake by stressed plants. Surprisingly, the study revealed a different outcome. 



They discovered a balance in the carbon cycle that they did not expect. The initial growth spurt of plants before the drought resulted in a higher than usual carbon uptake. 



This increased absorption of carbon dioxide before the drought effectively compensated for the subsequent decline in carbon uptake during the drought stress period.



As a result, the overall carbon balance remained stable despite the occurrence of the flash drought. This finding highlights the complex interactions within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/including-animals-carbon-cycle-models-boosts-ecosystem-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon cycle</a> and suggests that plants' response to pre-drought conditions plays a significant role in mitigating the potential increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels during flash droughts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oco-2-s-legacy">OCO-2's legacy</h2>



The OCO-2 satellite,&nbsp;celebrating its 10th anniversary in space,&nbsp;has been instrumental in this research.&nbsp;Its three high-precision spectrometers can detect the faint glow of SIF and measure carbon dioxide levels with remarkable accuracy.



This wealth of data has allowed scientists to unravel the intricate connection between plants,&nbsp;water,&nbsp;and carbon,&nbsp;and to develop new tools for predicting and mitigating the impacts of flash droughts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lesser-flash-droughts-using-plants">Lesser flash droughts using plants</h2>



The implications of this research are far-reaching. With early warning systems based on plant fluorescence and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-alter-roots-soil-moisture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil moisture</a> data, farmers can make informed decisions about irrigation, crop selection, and planting schedules. This could significantly reduce crop losses and ensure food security in the face of a changing climate.



"While early warning can’t eliminate the impacts of flash droughts, farmers and ranchers with advanced operations can better use water for irrigation to reduce crop impacts, avoid planting crops that are likely to fail, or plant a different type of crop to achieve the most ideal yield if they have weeks to months of lead time," notes Jordan Gerth, <a href="https://www.weather.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Weather Service</a> Scientist.



So,&nbsp;next time you gaze at a field of green,&nbsp;remember the secret glow hidden within those leaves.&nbsp;It's not just a sign of life, but a beacon of hope,&nbsp;guiding us towards a future where we can outsmart even the most elusive droughts.



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Plants emit a faint 'glow' when flash droughts are imminent

Ever heard of plants glowing? No, it's not a scene from a...

A recent study led by <a href="https://www.chapman.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chapman University</a> has found that some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bodybuilding-supplement-called-helps-prevent-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supplement</a> companies may mislead customers with unproven health claims and undeclared ingredients. The researchers focused on herbal supplements purported to treat or prevent COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. During the pandemic, the use of dietary supplements surged globally. 



“There was a big spike in purchase and use of these types of supplements during the pandemic,” said senior author Rosalee Hellberg, an associate professor of food science at Chapman. “Whenever there’s an increase in demand, there’s also an increased chance for fraud to occur.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ayurvedic-herbal-supplements-nbsp">Ayurvedic herbal supplements&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers collected 54 supplements containing Ayurvedic herbs, a type of alternative medicine from India, which were claimed to treat COVID-19.&nbsp;



These herbs included ashwagandha, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, tulsi, vacha, amla, guduchi, and tribulus. The products were sourced from online and local retailers in Orange and Los Angeles counties, CA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-barcoding-nbsp">DNA barcoding&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers employed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-in-nutrition-science-dna-barcoding-reveals-dietary-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA barcoding</a> techniques to verify the plant species in the supplements. DNA barcoding uses a short DNA sequence to identify an organism's species. 



The researchers noted several concerning results, indicating the need for increased scrutiny of these products. In 60% of the products, the expected ingredient was not detected.&nbsp;



However, Hellberg noted that this might not necessarily indicate fraud, as the novel use of DNA barcoding may struggle to detect degraded DNA, meaning a negative result does not confirm the absence of the species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-ingredients-in-herbal-supplements-nbsp">Hidden ingredients in herbal supplements&nbsp;</h2>



Another limitation of DNA barcoding is that it does not quantify the detected species' ingredients. Additional research is required to verify the amount of each ingredient, Hellberg said.&nbsp;



“If the ingredients were present at a higher amount, that is where the concerns can arise,” explained Hellberg. “Also, any time you're detecting things that aren't on the label, that can indicate some quality control issues. That could also suggest that there are other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/health-risks-of-ultra-processed-foods-revealed-in-30-year-study/%C3%B9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health risks</a> going on or maybe things aren't being handled properly.”



The scientists also found 19 products with undeclared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-extinction-threatens-the-future-of-medicine-and-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a> species. Common fillers such as rice and other materials were identified, along with other unlisted Ayurvedic herbs. 



“So these could be used in a fraudulent manner,” said Hellberg. “Instead of having 100% of the declared species on the label, some manufacturers might mix in filler because it’s cheaper.”



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



Undeclared species and ingredients in supplements pose risks to consumers, who could ingest substances causing allergic reactions and other health issues. However, the study did not determine the exact risk level, as it could not detect the amount of each ingredient.&nbsp;



This study - published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/pca.3320" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phytochemical Analysis</a> - highlights the importance of increased regulation and scrutiny of dietary supplements to ensure consumer safety and prevent misleading health claims.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-herbal-supplements-nbsp">More about herbal supplements&nbsp;</h2>



Herbal supplements are products made from plants for their therapeutic or medicinal properties. They are commonly used to improve health, boost immune function, and prevent or alleviate various ailments.&nbsp;



Herbal supplements can be found in various forms, such as pills, powders, teas, extracts, or capsules.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traditional-medicine">Traditional medicine</h3>



The use of herbal supplements dates back thousands of years as part of traditional medicine practices across the world, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine.&nbsp;



Commonly used herbs include echinacea, used to prevent colds; ginseng, used for energy and cognitive function; and St. John's wort, often used for depression.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-regulation-nbsp">Lack of regulation&nbsp;</h3>



While many find herbal supplements beneficial, their effectiveness can vary widely. In many countries, they are not strictly regulated like prescription drugs. This lack of regulation can lead to inconsistencies in potency and purity.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-side-effects">Side effects</h3>



Users should also be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Some of the general side effects and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbal-supplements-are-not-always-safe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risks</a> associated with herbal supplements include:



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-allergic-reactions">Allergic reactions</h4>



Some people may experience allergies to certain herbs, manifesting as rashes, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gastrointestinal-issues">Gastrointestinal issues</h4>



Many herbal supplements can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or upset stomach.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-disturbances">Sleep disturbances</h4>



Supplements such as ginseng and ginkgo can cause insomnia or restlessness.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bleeding-risks">Bleeding risks</h4>



Herbs like garlic, ginkgo, and ginseng have blood-thinning properties and can increase bleeding risk, particularly if taken with other blood thinners like warfarin.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-issues">Heart issues</h4>



Some herbs can interfere with heart medications and affect heart rhythms. For example, St. John's wort can interact with heart medications like digoxin.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-liver-damage">Liver damage</h4>



Supplements such as kava and comfrey have been linked to liver damage.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drug-interactions">Drug interactions</h4>



Many herbs can interact with prescription medications, either decreasing or increasing their effects, which can be dangerous. For instance, St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, antidepressants, and other medications.



It's crucial for individuals to discuss any herbal supplements they are considering with a healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate and safe, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.



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Herbal supplements often contain hidden ingredients

A recent study led by Chapman University has found that...

Utah's majestic mountain ranges and canyons,&nbsp;beloved by outdoor enthusiasts,&nbsp;are under siege by an unlikely adversary:&nbsp;a tiny,&nbsp;flightless <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/are-insects-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect</a> known as the balsam woolly adelgid (BWA).&nbsp;Introduced from Europe a century ago,&nbsp;this invasive pest has been wreaking havoc on subalpine fir trees across the American West.



While barely visible to the naked eye, the BWA's impact is anything but subtle. As it spreads through Utah's forests, it leaves behind a trail of weakened and dying trees. The widespread damage raise concerns about the future of these critical ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insect-with-a-voracious-fir-tree-appetite">Insect with a voracious fir tree appetite</h2>



Unlike the native bark beetles that have plagued Western forests in recent years,&nbsp;the BWA doesn't chew or burrow. Instead,&nbsp;this minuscule <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nighttime-buzz-insect-activity-increases-by-31-4-at-night/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect</a> feeds by sucking out the tree's fluids,&nbsp;leaving behind a toxic saliva that weakens the tree's defenses and disrupts nutrient flow.



"It inserts its stylet, which is like a feeding tube, between the cells of the bark, and eventually finds parenchyma cells and it feeds on the fluids and starches that are contained within those parenchyma cells," explains Justin Williams,&nbsp;an entomologist with the U.S.&nbsp;Forest Service.



The saliva injected by the BWA promotes abnormal cell growth. This leads to a characteristic swelling of branch nodes known as "gouting." These swollen nodes are a telltale sign of BWA infestation. They can ultimately contribute to the tree's demise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extent-of-insect-damage-to-fir-trees">Extent of insect damage to fir trees</h2>



A recent study from the <a href="https://www.utah.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah</a>,&nbsp;conducted in partnership with the U.S.&nbsp;Forest Service,&nbsp;has shed light on the BWA's spread and potential impact in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.



Researchers surveyed 58 plots across the Wasatch and Uinta mountains. They meticulously assessed the severity of BWA infestation on each subalpine fir tree. 



Their findings paint a sobering picture. The study revealed that climate exposure has already damaged 41% of the subalpine fir biomass in the area.



"We took that climate-to-severity relationship along with a series of climate projections and we were able to map current and future exposure to BWA damage at a high spatial resolution. The idea [is], in 2040, 2060, 2080, and 2100, based on these different climate projections, determining how exposed these areas are to the potential damaging effects of BWA," explains Lead author Mickey Campbell,&nbsp;a research assistant professor at the University of Utah.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warming-climate-worsens-the-outlook">Warming climate worsens the outlook</h2>



Unfortunately, climate change is poised to exacerbate the BWA problem. As temperatures rise, the insect's range and potential for damage are expected to increase. This means more trees will be at risk.



Campbell's research predicts a grim future. "And indeed, we find that for an insect that prefers warmer areas, a warming climate is going to provide it with more opportunity to cause damage," says Campbell. This indicates a direct link between rising temperatures and increased BWA activity.



By 2100, even under moderate climate projections, a staggering 79% of the study area's subalpine fir biomass could be exposed to BWA damage. This projection highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to protect Utah's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-white-fir-tree-resistance-to-tiny-insect">White fir tree resistance to tiny insect</h2>



While the BWA poses a significant threat to subalpine fir, there is a glimmer of hope. The experts found that white fir trees seem resistant to the insect's attacks. Despite the presence of BWA, white fir shows no signs of damage.



This resistance could be a crucial factor in the forest's ability to adapt to the BWA infestation. If white fir can thrive despite BWA, it could help maintain the forest's biodiversity. 



This resilience ensures that essential ecological functions continue. White fir's ability to withstand BWA could play a significant role in preserving the health and diversity of these forests.



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



The University of Utah research team has developed an online interactive dashboard. This tool helps land managers and the public visualize the potential spread of BWA damage in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. 



It could be invaluable for developing targeted mitigation strategies to protect vulnerable areas. By showing current and future projections, the dashboard aids in planning and response efforts.



However, the fight against the BWA is far from over. Ongoing research and monitoring are crucial. These efforts help understand the complex interactions between this invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pest-control-product-nemaslug-could-harm-beneficial-snails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pest</a>, its host trees, and the changing climate. 



Continued studies will provide essential data to inform and improve management strategies, ensuring better protection for the forests.



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



Clearly, the BWA is a small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-thrive-in-restored-habitats-near-solar-energy-facilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect</a> with a big impact.&nbsp;Its presence in Utah is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of our ecosystems.&nbsp;



Introducing non-native species can have far-reaching consequences.&nbsp;The BWA's success in warmer temperatures is a sign of the growing threat of climate change.



Rising temperatures enable pests to thrive and expand their range.&nbsp;Addressing climate change is crucial for protecting vulnerable ecosystems.&nbsp;We can all play a role in conservation.&nbsp;



Support scientific research and contribute to conservation efforts.&nbsp;Stay informed about invasive species and make choices to reduce our environmental impact.



By combining scientific knowledge with individual action,&nbsp;we can protect Utah's forests and other vulnerable ecosystems.



The BWA infestation is a call to action.&nbsp;We must prioritize the preservation of our natural world for future generations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378112724001646#" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Fir trees are severely threatened by an unwelcome insect guest

Utah's majestic mountain ranges and canyons,&nbsp;beloved by outdoor enthusiasts,&nbsp;are under...

In recent years, avocados have become synonymous with modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-one-avocado-each-day-can-add-years-to-your-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating habits</a>, especially popular among millennials who frequent trendy cafés. However, this beloved fruit faces an imminent threat due to the worsening <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-our-way-out-of-the-climate-crisis-with-farm-free-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a>. 



Recent research predicts a significant decline in the world’s prime avocado-growing regions, with projections showing up to a 41% reduction by 2050. 



The culprit? An increasingly hotter, drier climate, which poses a serious challenge to avocado cultivation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-vulnerability-of-avocados">The vulnerability of avocados</h2>



Avocados, often hailed as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-avocado-debate-understanding-the-impacts-of-our-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superfood</a>, require substantial amounts of water to thrive. This characteristic renders them particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. 



According to the report titled "Getting Smashed: The climate danger facing avocados" released by <a href="https://www.christianaid.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C</a><a href="https://www.christianaid.org.uk/news/what-we-do/avocados-are-getting-smashed-climate-change" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hristian Aid</a>, if global warming continues unchecked, the suitable areas for growing this fruit could decrease dramatically. 



"Avocados might be a superfood but their kryptonite is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-crop-growing-regions-are-shifting-as-the-climate-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. They are thirsty plants that are ill-suited to a hotter, drought-prone planet," said Mariana Paoli, Global Advocacy Lead at Christian Aid.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-impact-of-declining-avocado-production">Global impact of declining avocado production</h2>



The decline in avocado production extends beyond just affecting enthusiasts of guacamole or avocado toast; it has significant global implications. As the seventh-largest importer of avocado crops, the UK exemplifies the fruit's importance on an international scale. 



Avocados, rich in nutrients and healthy fats, form an essential component of diets worldwide. Moreover, ongoing research points to potential health benefits, including avocados' properties against diseases such as cancer. 



Yet, the anticipated conditions of extreme heat and prolonged drought threaten the ability of avocado trees to thrive and produce fruit effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-regions-will-be-hit-harder-than-others">Some regions will be hit harder than others</h2>



Specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-crop-growing-regions-are-shifting-as-the-climate-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regions</a> are expected to suffer more than others. For example, Michoacán, a pivotal avocado-growing area in Mexico, might see its production capacity plummet by 59% by 2050, even if global temperature increases stay below 2°Celsius. 



This region, like others, has experienced significant land clearance to meet the soaring demand, primarily from the US. Currently, Mexico leads the global avocado market, but the future seems uncertain with these climatic challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-response-and-the-call-for-action">The response and the call for action</h2>



The report not only highlights the challenges faced due to climate change but also urges actionable responses. It calls for stronger support for farmers and emphasizes the urgency of reducing emissions. 



Transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources is identified as a critical step in mitigating these adverse effects.



Beyond their environmental impact, avocados have also sparked significant cultural debate. In Australia, they became a symbol of generational economic discussions after millionaire Tim Gurner controversially linked millennials' penchant for avocado toast with their struggles in achieving home ownership in 2017.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-avocado-farming">The future of avocado farming</h2>



As the situation evolves, it's clear that both producers and consumers face a challenging future. With prices likely to rise due to scarcity, significant shifts in the global market are anticipated. 



Accordingly, the report urges wealthier nations to take robust actions to reduce their emissions and transition to cleaner energy solutions. These measures are crucial not just for those who enjoy this fruit, but for the global community reliant on such vital crops. 



Ultimately, the steps we take now could determine their availability and affordability for generations to come.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-plight-of-avocado-farmers">The plight of avocado farmers</h2>



Jolis Bigirimana, who leads Farmer’s Pride in Burundi, described the dire circumstances faced by avocado farmers.



‘We are experiencing hot temperatures, heavy rain, and erosion which is having a terrible impact on farmers' productivity and their income. We only have a very short period of rainfall here in Burundi and during that period avocado growers used to water their plants,” said Bigirimana.



“But because of climate change the weather is now more extreme and this has affected our productivity. It now costs us a lot of money to water our crops which has affected our income and is a threat to our livelihoods.”



"We need to see richer, polluting countries to cut their carbon emissions which is driving this extreme weather and also provide climate finance to help us adapt to the changing climate.”



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Avocados are threatened by extreme climate conditions

In recent years, avocados have become synonymous with modern eating...

Recent findings from a global scientific review have cast a shadow over the effectiveness of market-based approaches to forest conservation. 



Initiatives such as carbon offsets and deforestation-free certification schemes, while popular, appear to have made only limited progress in protecting forests and alleviating poverty. In some cases, these strategies have even exacerbated economic inequalities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Comprehensive forest conservation study</h2>



The review, conducted by the <a href="https://www.iufro.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Union of Forest Research Organizations</a> (IUFRO), represents the most comprehensive examination of its kind in conservation. 



The study draws on extensive academic research and fieldwork, encompassing the insights of 15,000 scientists across 120 countries. 



The findings, presented at a high-level UN forum, underscore the urgent need for a reassessment of current conservation policies.



Maria Brockhaus, a contributing author from the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a>, emphasized the inadequacy of these market mechanisms. 



"The evidence does not support the claim of win-wins or triple wins for environment, economy, and people," said Brockhaus. She noted that in regions where market-based policies have been prevalent for decades, poverty and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/declaring-an-area-protected-is-not-enough-to-prevent-forest-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest loss</a> remain persistent challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenges in market-based conservation</h2>



The report underscores a concerning trend of complex and overlapping market schemes where financial actors and shareholders prioritize short-term profits over sustainable forest governance. 



Constance McDermott, the lead author from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, pointed out the generally disappointing success rate. 



Specific cases, such as a $120 million project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, benefited entrenched interests without addressing significant issues like logging by powerful businesses. 



Similarly, in Malaysia, indigenous groups saw no benefits from a plantation venture promised to improve their livelihoods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unintended-consequences-and-global-policies">Unintended consequences and global policies</h2>



The study also critiques green trade policies from affluent nations, such as the EU’s ban on imports linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-brands-fail-to-fight-against-deforestation-and-human-rights-violations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a>, intended as conservation measures. 



While these policies may appear beneficial from a distance, they often fail to consider the adverse effects on local communities. 



McDermott illustrated this by discussing the plight of farmers in Ghana, where - despite numerous sustainable and conservation initiatives - deforestation rates have increased, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/paying-farmers-conservation-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farmers</a>' earnings have decreased.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-carbon-markets">The future of carbon markets</h2>



Despite the turbulence in current strategies, carbon markets are poised to expand into a multi-billion-dollar industry as corporations aim to meet net-zero climate targets through purchasing credits. 



These credits often originate from projects in developing countries aimed at reducing emissions. However, there is growing concern about the actual benefits reaching the poor communities involved.



Kenya’s President William Ruto has even touted Africa's carbon sinks as an "unparalleled economic goldmine," though the distribution of these potential billions remains uncertain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Radical rethink of market-based conservation </h2>



The review from IUFRO and the insights of scientists like Brockhaus and McDermott call for a "radical rethink" of how market-based approaches are employed. 



Without addressing the broader economic and governance challenges associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protected-forests-offset-a-years-worth-of-global-fossil-fuel-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest management</a>, these market mechanisms alone cannot solve the intricate problems of deforestation and poverty. 



As the evidence mounts, the global community may need to pivot towards more integrated and holistic approaches to conservation and economic development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Market-based approaches to forest conservation&nbsp;</h2>



Market-based approaches to forest conservation involve economic strategies that incentivize the protection and sustainable management of forests. 



These methods aim to align financial incentives with conservation goals, making it economically advantageous for stakeholders to preserve forest ecosystems rather than deplete them.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Carbon credits</h3>



One common approach is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-carbon-credits-are-not-tied-to-forest-preservation-as-claimed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon credits</a>, where companies or governments pay for projects that reduce carbon emissions, such as reforestation or forest preservation, effectively turning carbon storage into a commodity.&nbsp;



This not only provides financial support for conservation efforts but also helps combat climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ecosystem services&nbsp;</h3>



Another method is payment for ecosystem services, which compensates landowners for managing their land in ways that maintain its ecological benefits. These services might include clean water, biodiversity, and carbon storage.&nbsp;



This approach gives economic value to the ecological functions of forests, encouraging landowners to maintain these landscapes rather than convert them for more destructive uses like agriculture or logging.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Eco-tourism&nbsp;</h3>



Eco-tourism is also a significant market-driven conservation strategy, where revenue is generated by people visiting natural areas. 



This revenue can provide a sustainable source of income for local communities and fund conservation efforts, making it financially viable for communities to keep forests intact rather than clear them for other types of development.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Certified forest products&nbsp;</h3>



Trade in certified timber and non-timber forest products is another avenue. Certification schemes like the Forest Stewardship Council promote the responsible management of forests. 



Products from certified forests are sold at premium prices, which can drive more sustainable practices in the forestry sector.



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Market-based strategies fall short on forest conservation

Recent findings from a global scientific review have cast a...

Sleep, that elusive yet essential state, continues to fascinate scientists and the general public alike. With research underscoring its crucial role in everything from heart health to cognitive function, the pursuit of quality sleep has never been more pressing. Enter an unlikely hero: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-is-beneficial-for-physical-and-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gardening</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-deprivation-epidemic">Sleep deprivation epidemic</h2>



In our modern, hyper-connected world, the relentless pace of life and constant barrage of digital stimuli have created an environment where quality sleep is often sacrificed. 



Smartphones, tablets, and laptops beckon us with endless entertainment, social media updates, and work emails, making it difficult to disconnect and wind down before bed. 



The blue light emitted by these devices further disrupts our natural sleep-wake cycle by suppressing the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep.



Studies have consistently shown that a significant proportion of adults, particularly those in industrialized nations, regularly fail to meet the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep per night. This chronic sleep deprivation, accumulating over time, has dire consequences for both physical and mental well-being. 



Research has linked insufficient sleep to a heightened risk of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even certain types of cancer. 



Additionally, sleep deprivation impairs cognitive function, hindering memory, attention span, decision-making abilities, and creativity. It can also lead to mood swings, irritability, and an increased risk of developing mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-therapeutic-power-of-gardening-for-sleep">Therapeutic power of gardening for sleep</h2>



While pharmaceuticals and sleep aids offer temporary relief for some, an emerging body of research suggests that a more natural solution might be found in the soil. 



A recent study has revealed a compelling association between gardening and improved sleep quality.



“According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://sph.fudan.edu.cn/employee/158" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Activity Guideline for Americans</a>&nbsp;(2nd edition), gardening is a muscle-strengthening and multicomponent physical activity with one of the lowest injury risks, which is appropriate and recommended for older adults,” said study author&nbsp;<a href="https://sph.fudan.edu.cn/employee/158">Xiang Gao</a>, a dean and distinguished professor at <a href="https://www.fudan.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fudan University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-between-gardening-and-sleep">Connection between gardening and sleep</h2>



In their quest to understand the potential connection between gardening and sleep, the researchers turned to the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a comprehensive health survey conducted annually across the United States. 



This vast dataset provided them with a unique opportunity to analyze responses from over 62,000 adults, offering a wide range of demographic, lifestyle, and health information.



By meticulously comparing individuals who engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-can-improve-your-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gardening</a> activities to those who did not exercise at all (non-exercisers) and those who participated in other forms of exercise, the researchers were able to isolate the specific impact of gardening on sleep patterns. 



This approach allowed them to account for potential confounding factors and determine whether gardening had a unique association with sleep quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-benefits-for-sleep">Unique benefits for sleep</h2>



The results of this analysis were striking. Gardeners consistently reported significantly fewer sleep complaints compared to both non-exercisers and individuals engaged in other forms of exercise. 



This finding suggests that gardening may offer unique benefits for sleep that go beyond the general positive effects associated with physical activity.



Furthermore, the researchers observed a dose-dependent relationship between gardening and sleep quality. Individuals who spent more time gardening reported even fewer sleep complaints, indicating that the benefits of gardening for sleep may increase with greater engagement in this activity. 



This observation opens up intriguing possibilities for using gardening as a potential therapeutic intervention for sleep disorders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-blooming-field-of-possibilities">A blooming field of possibilities</h2>



While this study offers tantalizing clues, it's just the tip of the iceberg. Scientists are eager to uncover the precise mechanisms behind gardening's sleep-enhancing effects. Several potential factors are under investigation:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Physical activity</h3>



Gardening is not just a leisure activity; it's a form of exercise that involves various physical movements. Activities like digging, weeding, planting, and harvesting require the use of multiple muscle groups, from arms to legs, contributing to overall physical fitness. 



Regular physical activity, such as gardening, enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves flexibility. These physical benefits are crucial as they are directly linked to better sleep quality. 



Engaging in such activities helps tire the body in a healthy way, leading to more restful and deeper sleep cycles.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sunlight exposure</h3>



Gardening typically requires spending significant time outdoors, which naturally increases exposure to sunlight. This exposure is essential for regulating our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural clock that dictates sleep patterns. 



Sunlight helps maintain a healthy circadian rhythm by influencing the production of melatonin, a hormone that induces sleep. The more aligned our circadian rhythm is, the better our chances of falling asleep at the right time and enjoying uninterrupted sleep.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stress reduction</h3>



The tranquil nature of gardening activities, from tending to plants to touching the soil, can significantly reduce levels of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone. 



High cortisol levels can interfere with sleep by keeping the body in a heightened state of alertness or anxiety. Gardening helps mitigate this by fostering a calming environment, allowing individuals to relax both physically and mentally. 



This reduction in stress creates a more conducive atmosphere for sleep, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mindfulness and connection with nature</h3>



Gardening offers a unique opportunity to engage in mindfulness through close interaction with the natural environment. The focus required in nurturing plants, observing their growth, and connecting with the earth can significantly reduce mental clutter and daily worries. 



The practice of mindfulness and increased connection with nature can lead to a decrease in rumination - the repetitive, often negative, thinking that can disrupt sleep - and promote a more peaceful mind that is ready for sleep.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sense of accomplishment</h3>



Gardening produces visible and tangible results, whether it's the growth of new plants, the blossoming of flowers, or the harvest of fruits and vegetables. These outcomes provide a significant sense of accomplishment and can boost self-esteem. 



Achieving goals and witnessing the fruits of one's labor can offer emotional satisfaction and joy, which contribute to a positive state of mind at bedtime. Feeling good about one's achievements during the day can ease the transition into sleep, making it more likely to enjoy a restful night.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-gardener-s-guide-to-nurturing-your-sleep">A gardener's guide to nurturing your sleep</h2>



Eager to cultivate your own sleep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-hacks-social-media/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">garden</a>? Here are a few tips to get you started:



<ul>
<li>Choose the right plants:&nbsp;Opt for fragrant herbs like lavender,&nbsp;chamomile,&nbsp;or jasmine,&nbsp;known for their calming properties.</li>



<li>Create a sensory haven:&nbsp;Incorporate elements that engage all the senses,&nbsp;such as wind chimes,&nbsp;soft lighting,&nbsp;and comfortable seating.</li>



<li>Garden mindfully:&nbsp;Focus on the present moment,&nbsp;noticing the feel of the soil,&nbsp;the scent of the flowers,&nbsp;and the sounds of nature.</li>



<li>Keep a garden journal:&nbsp;Record your observations,&nbsp;thoughts,&nbsp;and feelings,&nbsp;allowing yourself to reflect and de-stress.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-sleep-the-bountiful-harvest-of-gardening">Beyond sleep: The bountiful harvest of gardening</h2>



The potential benefits of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gardening-got-a-major-boost-from-the-covid-19-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gardening</a> don't stop at sleep. Ongoing research by Gao and his team suggests that gardening may also protect against cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. 



This underscores the interconnectedness of our physical, mental, and emotional health and the profound impact that simple activities like gardening can have.



As scientists continue to delve into the multifaceted relationship between gardening and well-being, we can expect to see even more evidence supporting its therapeutic potential. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most effective remedies are not found in a bottle, but in the natural world around us.



Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice with a budding interest, consider adding this fulfilling activity to your routine. Not only will you reap the rewards of fresh produce and a beautiful landscape, but you might also cultivate a healthier mind, body, and, most importantly, a more restful night's sleep.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032724005263" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Affective Disorders</a>.



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Gardening significantly improves sleep quality in adults

Sleep, that elusive yet essential state, continues to fascinate scientists...

Cyanobacteria,,Also,Known,As,Cyanophyta,On,Water,Surface.,Can,Produce

The world is abuzz with talk of carbon capture and climate change, but did you know that nature has its own tiny superheroes doing just that? Scientists have recently unlocked a secret hidden in the blueprint of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyanobacteria-may-shed-new-light-on-the-history-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blue-green algae</a>, also known as cyanobacteria, that could revolutionize agriculture and our fight against climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cyanobacteria-s-carbon-concentrating-mechanism">Cyanobacteria's carbon concentrating mechanism</h2>



Cyanobacteria, notorious for their sometimes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-cyanobacteria-uk-ponds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxic blooms</a> in lakes and rivers, are actually powerhouses when it comes to capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 



Their secret weapon? A carbon dioxide concentrating mechanism (CCM) that enables them to fix carbon at an astonishing rate, far surpassing ordinary plants and crops.



At the heart of this CCM lies a large protein compartment called a carboxysome, where two key enzymes, CsoSCA and Rubisco, work in perfect harmony. 



CsoSCA creates a high concentration of carbon dioxide within the carboxysome, while Rubisco eagerly gobbles it up, transforming it into sugars that the cell uses for energy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-role-of-csosca-and-rubp">Unexpected role of CsoSCA and RuBP</h2>



While scientists have long understood the role of Rubisco in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a>, the regulation of CsoSCA remained a mystery. 



However, recent research has revealed an unexpected connection between CsoSCA and a molecule called RuBP, which acts as a switch, activating CsoSCA only when enough RuBP is available.



"Think of photosynthesis like making a sandwich. Carbon dioxide from the air is the filling, but a photosynthetic cell needs to provide the bread. That's RuBP," Dr. Ben Long, lead author of the study, explains.



"Just like you need bread to make a sandwich, the rate of turning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-oxygen-boring-billion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> dioxide into sugar depends on how fast RuBP is supplied," he concluded.



This intricate dance between CsoSCA and RuBP ensures that the carbon fixation process is highly efficient, only occurring when the necessary resources are available. This discovery has significant implications for agriculture and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survey-mother-nature-is-more-likely-to-solve-climate-change-than-geoengineering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change mitigation</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engineering-super-crops-for-a-sustainable-future">Engineering super crops for a sustainable future</h2>



Imagine crops that can capture and utilize carbon dioxide as efficiently as cyanobacteria.&nbsp;This could lead to vastly improved crop yields,&nbsp;reduced demand for nitrogen fertilizer and irrigation,&nbsp;and increased resilience to climate change.&nbsp;It's a win-win scenario for both farmers and the environment.



"Understanding how the CCM works not only enriches our knowledge of natural processes fundamental to Earth's biogeochemistry but may also guide us in creating sustainable solutions to some of the biggest environmental challenges the world is facing," says Sacha Pulsford,&nbsp;first author of the study from <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Australian National University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-super-crops-to-fight-climate-change">Creating super crops to fight climate change</h2>



While the concept of creating super crops might sound like a plot from a futuristic novel, it is inching closer to reality with each scientific breakthrough involving cyanobacteria. 



Known as tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-algae-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon superheroes</a>, these microorganisms are proving instrumental in our quest for sustainable agricultural practices and enhanced food security. 



This shift toward engineering advanced crops capable of more efficiently processing atmospheric carbon could drastically change how we approach food production and environmental conservation.



Continued research into the complex mechanisms of nature is revealing new methods to address some of the most critical challenges facing our planet today. 



A prime example of such innovation is the discovery of the interaction between the CsoSCA enzyme and RuBP, a relationship that significantly enhances the process of carbon fixation. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brighter-future-with-cyanobacteria-s-carbon-processing-0">Brighter future with Cyanobacteria's carbon processing</h2>



This discovery highlights the intricate and dynamic nature of biological processes and underscores the immense value of scientific exploration.



Understanding how these small yet <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyanobacteria-may-shed-new-light-on-the-history-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">powerful organisms</a> function opens the door to potentially game-changing applications in agriculture and ecology. 



By leveraging the mechanisms cyanobacteria use to capture carbon, scientists are poised to develop new technologies and crops that not only improve yield but also contribute to a more carbon-efficient environment. 



These advancements could lead to substantial improvements in how we manage agricultural sustainability and respond to climate change, providing a dual benefit to both humanity and the natural world. 



Through diligent study and innovative thinking, we are on the cusp of harnessing the full potential of these microscopic powerhouses to foster a healthier and more resilient planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adk7283" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Turning plants into carbon capture machines with cyanobacteria

The world is abuzz with talk of carbon capture and...

Over 80 million Americans battle the effects of allergies caused by airborne pollen. That's the size of Germany's population sneezing and sniffling as these tiny particles wreak havoc on our immune systems. 



The financial toll is even more staggering, exceeding $3 billion annually, with nearly half linked to prescription medication. Pollen isn't just an annoyance, it's a financial burden too.



But what if pollen is more than just an allergy trigger? Emerging research from NOAA's Global Systems Laboratory (<a href="https://gsl.noaa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GSL</a>) has unearthed a fascinating connection: pollen can actually influence the weather.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-forecasting">Pollen forecasting</h2>



Imagine a world where pollen forecasts are as commonplace as weather forecasts, a world where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollen-allergies-will-be-intensified-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">allergy</a> sufferers can plan their days around pollen levels just as they might on high ozone days. This vision is becoming a reality thanks to an experimental model developed by GSL.



This cutting-edge model, operational since summer 2022, is the first of its kind in the U.S., offering real-time predictions of both the impact of weather on pollen concentrations and the inverse – how pollen loads influence the weather.



"Pollen and its associated allergies are important components to people's everyday lives," said CIRES scientist Jordan Schnell, working at GSL. "With real-time predictions of pollen and where it is transported, people can adjust their outdoor activities, medications and take precautions to ensure their well-being."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rap-chem-weather-model">RAP-Chem weather model </h2>



This pollen prediction module is a key component of the Rapid-Refresh Chemistry (<a href="https://rapidrefresh.noaa.gov/RAPchem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RAP-Chem</a>) system, an advanced forecasting tool developed by NOAA. RAP-Chem represents a new generation of weather and air quality models, designed to provide detailed forecasts for a variety of atmospheric conditions. 



Each day, RAP-Chem produces a forecast spanning 48 hours, covering a range of air quality parameters including the concentration and dispersion of ozone, smoke, dust, and crucially, pollen. This integration allows for a comprehensive understanding of how pollen interacts with other atmospheric elements, providing valuable insights for both allergy sufferers and meteorologists alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-and-weather">Pollen and weather</h2>



RAP-Chem's analysis demonstrates the intricate relationship between pollen and meteorological conditions. Wind patterns significantly influence the daily fluctuation of pollen levels in the atmosphere. During daylight hours, winds facilitate the release and dispersal of pollen from plants, leading to elevated concentrations in the air. Conversely, as winds subside at night, pollen tends to settle back onto the ground, resulting in decreased airborne levels.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spring-rainfall-is-an-unexpected-source-of-pollen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rainfall</a> acts as a natural cleansing mechanism, washing pollen out of the air and reducing its concentration. However, thunderstorms introduce a complex dynamic. While rain generally lowers pollen levels, the cold downdrafts associated with thunderstorms can concentrate pollen particles near the ground. This localized increase in pollen concentration can exacerbate allergy symptoms for individuals in those areas.



Humidity and lightning also contribute to the complexity of pollen behavior. High humidity can cause pollen grains to rupture into smaller fragments, making them easier to inhale and potentially increasing their allergenic impact. Similarly, lightning discharges can fracture pollen grains, altering their size and distribution in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-pollen-may-help-clouds-form-impacting-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollen-a-weather-influencer">Pollen: A weather influencer</h2>



A unique aspect of RAP-Chem is its ability to go beyond examining the influence of weather conditions on pollen concentrations. The model also investigates the reciprocal relationship, exploring how pollen, similar to other airborne particles like dust and smoke, can actively modify weather patterns. 



These microscopic particles interact with sunlight, scattering its rays and potentially influencing the amount of solar radiation that reaches the Earth's surface. Additionally, pollen particles can act as condensation nuclei, facilitating the formation of clouds. 



Consequently, the presence and concentration of pollen in the atmosphere can impact various meteorological factors, including temperature fluctuations, visibility, and the occurrence and intensity of precipitation.



"Pollen grains, like other suspended particles, can scatter sunlight, serve as seeds to form clouds, and affect temperature, visibility and precipitation," explained the GSL team.



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



The research doesn't stop there. NOAA is working with the CDC and other health groups. They're examining if RAP-Chem's pollen forecasts match up with more allergy clinic visits. 



The implications of this research are profound. Accurate pollen forecasts could revolutionize allergy management, allowing individuals to proactively plan their activities and medication use. It's a testament to the interconnectedness of our world, where even the tiniest particles can influence something as vast as the weather.



"With real-time predictions of pollen and where it is transported, people can adjust their outdoor activities, medications and take precautions to ensure their well-being," noted Jordan Schnell.



So the next time you sneeze, remember, that pollen grain might be doing more than just irritating your nose. It could be changing the weather too.



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Pollen can actually change the weather

Over 80 million Americans battle the effects of allergies caused...

Two,Women,Sisters,Or,Friends,Sharing,A,Smoke,Or,Joint

As cannabis gains popularity and acceptance, a growing concern arises for breastfeeding mothers who use the drug. A recent study has shed light on the presence of THC, the psychoactive component of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>, in the breast milk produced by these mothers. 



The findings raise important questions about the potential effects on infants and the need for further research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-milk-moms-and-marijuana-a-delicate-balance">Milk, moms, and marijuana: A delicate balance</h2>



Courtney Meehan, a biological anthropologist at <a href="https://wsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington State University</a>, led a groundbreaking study published in the journal Breastfeeding Medicine. 



The research team analyzed breast milk donated by 20 breastfeeding mothers who used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-smokers-not-lazy-unmotivated-despite-stereotypes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>, aiming to uncover how long cannabinoids, like THC, persisted in breast milk.



"Breastfeeding parents need to be aware that if they use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smoking-cannabis-significantly-increases-the-risk-of-heart-attack/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>, their infants are likely consuming cannabinoids via the milk they produce, and we do not know whether this has any effect on the developing infant," said Meehan, the study's corresponding author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thc-levels-found-in-breast-milk">THC levels found in breast milk</h2>



The researchers discovered that the amount of THC detected in the breast milk was low, with an estimated average of 0.07 mg of THC per day consumed by infants. 



To put this into perspective, a common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-plans-to-reclassify-marijuana-and-ease-restrictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low-dose edible</a> contains 2 mg of THC. However, the research team stressed that it is unknown whether this amount has any impact on the infant.



"Human milk has compounds called lipids, and cannabinoids are lipophilic, meaning they dissolve in those lipids. This may mean that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-legalization-does-not-increase-youth-substance-abuse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabinoids</a> like THC tend to accumulate in breast milk -- and potentially in infants who drink it," explained Meehan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-knowns-and-unknowns-of-cannabis-and-breast-milk">Knowns and unknowns of cannabis and breast milk</h2>



The study revealed that, unlike alcohol, when THC was detected in breast milk, there was no consistent time when its concentration peaked and started to decline. This makes it difficult for breastfeeding mothers to avoid feeding their infants when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-potency-linked-to-dramatic-rise-in-psychiatric-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">THC levels</a> are at their highest.



"There was such a range. If you're trying to avoid breastfeeding when the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-impairment-is-difficult-to-determine-using-police-field-sobriety-tests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concentration of THC</a> peaks, you're not going to know when THC is at its peak in the breast milk," said lead author Elizabeth Holdsworth, who worked on this study while a WSU post-doctoral researcher and is now on the faculty of <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>.



Furthermore, scientists know almost nothing about how many commonly used drugs may impact breastfeeding babies, partly because women, especially those who are breastfeeding, have historically been left out of clinical trials on medicines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thoughtful-decisions-and-therapeutic-use">Thoughtful decisions and therapeutic use</h2>



A related qualitative study by the research team revealed that many breastfeeding moms are using cannabis for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-found-in-cannabis-plants-can-actually-reduce-cannabis-induced-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapeutic purposes</a> -- to manage anxiety, other mental health issues, or chronic pain. The mothers often chose cannabis over using other medications because they felt it was safer.



"Our results suggest that mothers who use cannabis are being thoughtful in their decisions," said co-author Shelley McGuire, a <a href="https://www.uidaho.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Idaho</a> professor who studies maternal-infant nutrition. "These women were mindful about their choices. This is far from a random lifestyle choice."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-substantial-rigorous-research-needed-on-thc-and-breast-milk">Substantial, rigorous research needed on THC and breast milk</h2>



While some research has been done regarding alcohol, with guidelines for new mothers to wait at least two hours after consuming alcohol before breastfeeding, nothing similar has been developed for cannabis.



"This is an area that needs substantial, rigorous research for moms to know what's best," McGuire said.



The collaborative research team is currently working to address some of that knowledge gap with further research on cannabis use in breastfeeding moms, holistic composition of the milk they produce, and its effects on infant development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-cannabis-use-as-a-breastfeeding-mother">Navigating cannabis use as a breastfeeding mother</h2>



In summary, as the landscape of cannabis use continues to evolve, breastfeeding mothers face a unique set of challenges and uncertainties. 



The Washington State University-led study has taken the first steps in unraveling the complex relationship between cannabis use and breastmilk, but it has also highlighted the urgent need for further research. 



Only through rigorous scientific inquiry can we provide breastfeeding mothers with the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions about their health and the well-being of their infants. 



By prioritizing this area of study, we can work towards creating a safer, more informed environment for mothers and their babies, ensuring that the choices they make are grounded in evidence and understanding.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/bfm.2024.0021" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Breastfeeding Medicine</a>.



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THC from cannabis use lingers in breast milk of new mothers

As cannabis gains popularity and acceptance, a growing concern arises...

The northeastern United States is witnessing a growing environmental challenge as a notorious aquatic weed, known as northern hydrilla, expands its reach. 



Initially confined to the Connecticut River, recent studies have shown this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disease-that-kills-bald-eagles-linked-to-invasive-plant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive species</a> is now populating multiple waterbodies across Connecticut and even reaching into Massachusetts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ecological-threat-of-northern-hydrilla">The ecological threat of northern hydrilla</h2>



Northern hydrilla is known for its rapid growth, which can form dense canopies that hinder recreational activities like boating and fishing. More critically, its unchecked spread poses a significant threat to native plant and animal species. 



This subspecies also carries a bacterium that produces a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/algae-blooms-can-release-neurotoxins-into-the-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurotoxin</a> linked to fatalities in bald eagles and waterfowl, highlighting its dangerous ecological impact.



Study lead author Jeremiah Foley, an assistant agricultural scientist with the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Statio, expressed significant concern about the expansion of northern hydrilla.



"The spread and establishment of yet another hydrilla subspecies in the United States is alarming. Especially alarming is the negative impacts that this invasive aquatic weed can have on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-aquatic-plants-could-help-clean-coastal-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">native aquatic</a> and non-aquatic plant and animal species, and how quickly it’s spreading," said Foley.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recent-discoveries-and-the-need-for-vigilance">Recent discoveries and the need for vigilance</h2>



Northern hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata subspecies lithuanica) remained undocumented outside the Connecticut River until 2022. However, by the end of 2023, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-chorus-invasive-plants-change-the-soundscape/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive weed</a> had been detected in six additional locations. 



These sites are frequently near boat-launch ramps, indicating a potential route for the spread of northern hydrilla.



“Significant costs are already associated with the impact and maintenance of the prior two subspecies established in the U.S. since the 1960s and 1980s," said Foley.



"The discovery of Hydrilla verticillata and its subspecies lithuanica in the Connecticut River and the breadth of the current infestation represent a significant ecological invasion event with potentially far-reaching implications.”



Popular fishing spots such as East Twin Lakes, Amos Lake, and Congamond Lakes, which regularly host fishing tournaments, are particularly at risk.



Moreover, the movement of boats from infested waters to uninfected areas during these tournaments poses a high risk of spreading northern hydrilla.



Foley highlighted the specific dangers associated with these movements: “Of particular concern are tournaments that involve travel from infested waterbodies to non-infested ones.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-crucial-fight-against-northern-hydrilla">The crucial fight against northern hydrilla</h2>



Given the situation, Foley emphasized the importance of research into how angling tournaments might contribute to the spread of hydrilla. 



“Management efforts should prioritize early detection and prevention strategies, such as increased monitoring at boat-launch ramps and enhanced education for boaters to mitigate the spread of this invasive species.”



The battle against the spread of northern hydrilla is crucial for preserving our aquatic ecosystems. 



The detailed findings and recommendations from this study are available in an article published by <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambridge University Press</a> in a journal of the Weed Science Society of America. 



The publication not only raises awareness but also serves as a call to action for all stakeholders involved in the health of our water bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about northern hydrilla&nbsp;</h2>



Northern hydrilla, also known as Hydrilla verticillata, is a submersed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-bombs-invasive-plants-can-lie-dormant-for-centuries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aquatic plant</a> that has garnered attention due to its invasive nature and rapid growth in freshwater environments. Originally native to Asia, it has spread across various regions including North America and Europe, thriving in lakes, rivers, and canals.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Characteristics</h3>



This plant is characterized by its dense, mat-like growth which can dominate water bodies, blocking sunlight and depleting oxygen levels, thus outcompeting native species and altering aquatic ecosystems.&nbsp;



Hydrilla has slender stems that can grow up to 25 feet long, depending on water depth, and it features small, pointed leaves that grow in whorls of four to eight around the stem. It also reproduces prolifically not only through seeds but also vegetatively through fragments, tubers, and turions, making it particularly difficult to control once established.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Management of northern hydrilla&nbsp;</h3>



Due to its aggressive growth and resilience, managing hydrilla often involves a combination of mechanical harvesting, chemical herbicides, and biological control, such as introducing specific fish species that feed on it. Despite control efforts, hydrilla remains a challenging and costly invasive species to manage in affected water bodies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/invasive-plant-science-and-management/article/abs/northern-hydrilla-hydrilla-verticillata-ssp-lithuanica-discovery-and-establishment-outside-the-connecticut-river/00B45505BAB20976FE34BCCF12E75E69" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Invasive Plant Science and Management</a>.



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Invasive aquatic weed  is spreading rapidly in the northeastern U.S.

The northeastern United States is witnessing a growing environmental challenge...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



—–



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

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<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=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



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



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



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



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



-----



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



-----



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

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 the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" 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.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image 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.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" 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> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" 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.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



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.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" 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.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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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.

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" 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> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&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.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" 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> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



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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.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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