We hear a lot about how climate change affects animals - but what if the reverse is also true?



New research suggests that when animals disappear from forests, the forests lose one of their key tools for fighting climate change. That connection between animals and climate may be even stronger than we thought.



Scientists at the <a href="https://www.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts Institute of Technology</a> have found that tropical forests regrow much more effectively when they still have healthy populations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-plants-wont-survive-the-loss-of-seed-dispersing-animals/">seed-dispersing animals</a>. 



In fact, they can absorb up to four times more carbon than similar forests where those animals are missing or declining.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forests-need-wildlife-to-function">Forests need wildlife to function</h2>



Tropical forests are the planet’s biggest land-based carbon sinks. That means they absorb and store more carbon than any other type of ecosystem. 



So, understanding what keeps those forests functioning isn’t just an ecological question - it’s a climate question.



Evan Fricke, a research scientist in the MIT Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, is the lead author of the new study.



“The results underscore the importance of animals in maintaining healthy, carbon-rich tropical forests,” said Fricke. “When seed-dispersing animals decline, we risk weakening the climate-mitigating power of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-forests-are-struggling-to-keep-pace-with-climate-change/">tropical forests</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-are-nature-s-forest-planters">Animals are nature’s forest planters</h2>



If you’ve ever watched a monkey munch on fruit or a bird fly off with a berry, you’ve seen nature’s version of forest management in action.



When these animals eat fruit and later defecate the seeds elsewhere, they help forests regenerate. In tropical regions, over 75 percent of tree species depend on animals to disperse their seeds.



Without those animals, seeds don’t travel far, germinate less often, and forests grow back more slowly - if at all.



Fricke has spent nearly 15 years studying this process. He’s shown in past work that animal seed dispersal helps <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-have-unique-fungi-partnerships-that-help-them-survive/">trees survive</a> and adapt. Now, his team is thinking more broadly about what that means for the planet.



“We’re now thinking more about the roles that animals might play in affecting the climate through seed dispersal,” Fricke said. 



“We know that in tropical forests, where more than three-quarters of trees rely on animals for seed dispersal, the decline of seed dispersal could affect not just the biodiversity of forests, but how they bounce back from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/">deforestation</a>. We also know that all around the world, animal populations are declining.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-impact-of-missing-animals">The impact of missing animals</h2>



To find out just how big an impact this has, the MIT researchers pulled together massive datasets - on biodiversity, animal movement, seed dispersal, and carbon storage. They studied 17,000 plots, tracking animals’ locations, movements, and the seeds they dispersed.



The team also factored in human pressures. In areas with heavy human activity, animals didn’t travel as far or scatter seeds as widely. The team built an index to measure how much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-play-a-much-bigger-role-in-seed-dispersal-than-we-thought/">seed dispersal</a> had been disrupted and compared that to how much carbon forests in those areas could store.



“It was a big task to bring data from thousands of field studies together into a map of the disruption of seed dispersal,” Fricke said. “But it lets us go beyond just asking what animals are there to actually quantifying the ecological roles those animals are playing and understanding how human pressures affect them.”



What they found was striking. Forests lost 1.8 metric tons of carbon per hectare yearly where seed-dispersing animals had declined. That’s a 57 percent drop in regrowth potential.



The finding that disrupted seed dispersal leads to a fourfold drop in carbon absorption highlights seed dispersers as a key driver of tropical forest carbon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-make-climate-solutions-work">Animals make climate solutions work</h2>



Not all forests are equally positioned for regrowth. The team found that some landscapes are more promising than others - especially those near intact forests or with lots of tree cover. 



In these places, animal populations are more stable, which helps forests bounce back naturally.



“In the discussion around planting trees versus allowing trees to regrow naturally, regrowth is basically free, whereas planting trees costs money, and it also leads to less diverse forests,” said Professor César Terrer.



“With these results… we can understand where natural regrowth can happen effectively because there are animals planting the seeds for free.”



This research adds a new layer to climate modeling. If seed-dispersing animals are missing, regrowth estimates may be too optimistic. If animals are thriving, some areas may have more regrowth potential than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-forests-means-saving-animals">Saving forests means saving animals</h2>



The researchers suggest several ways to support seed-dispersing animals. These include restoring habitats, building wildlife corridors, and limiting activities like wildlife trade. 



In some cases, reintroducing missing species or planting trees that attract them could help restore these lost relationships.



It’s also about getting the science right. Future studies may examine whether the decline in tropical forests’ carbon-absorbing power is linked more to extreme weather or to the loss of these animal-plant partnerships.



“Forests provide a huge climate subsidy by sequestering about a third of all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-faces-hidden-mechanical-stress-from-carbon-emissions/">human carbon emissions</a>,” Terrer said. “Tropical forests are by far the most important carbon sink globally, but in the last few decades, their ability to sequester carbon has been declining."



The team will next investigate whether the decline is driven more by extreme droughts and fires or by reduced animal seed dispersal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-losing-wildlife-worsens-warming">Losing wildlife worsens warming</h2>



Ultimately, the findings point to a deeper truth. Climate and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diverse-forests-are-more-resilient-and-productive/">biodiversity</a> aren't separate problems - they're intertwined.



“It’s been clear that climate change threatens biodiversity, and now this study shows how biodiversity losses can exacerbate climate change,” said Fricke. “These are challenges we need to tackle in tandem."



“When we lose our animals, we’re losing the ecological infrastructure that keeps our tropical forests healthy and resilient."



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2500951122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Forests rely on animals to help fight climate change

We hear a lot about how climate change affects animals - but what if the reverse is also true? New research suggests that when animals disappear from forests, the forests lose one of their key tools for fighting climate change. That connection between animals and climate may be even stronger than we thought. Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have found that tropical forests regrow much more effectively when they still have healthy populations of seed-dispersing animals. In fact, they can absorb up to four times...

New research provides the latest evidence that money doesn't buy happiness. The study reveals that many Indigenous peoples and local communities across the globe experience high levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brief-conversations-with-strangers-boost-life-satisfaction/">life satisfaction</a> despite possessing minimal monetary income.&nbsp;



The study was conducted by experts at the <a href="https://www.iest.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Environmental Science and Technology</a> of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (ICTA-UAB), in collaboration with researchers McGill University in Canada. The findings shed light on the complexities of human happiness and suggest the need to reevaluate what is considered essential for a fulfilling life.



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



"It is often said that money can’t buy happiness, yet many surveys have shown that richer people tend to report being more satisfied with their lives. This tendency could be taken to indicate that high material wealth - as measured in monetary terms - is a necessary ingredient for happiness," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"Here, we show survey results from people living in small-scale societies outside the globalized mainstream, many of whom identify as Indigenous. Despite having little monetary income, the respondents frequently report being very satisfied with their lives, and some communities report satisfaction scores similar to the wealthiest countries."&nbsp;



"These results imply greater flexibility in the means to achieve happiness than are apparent from surveys that examine only industrialized societies."



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



The pursuit of economic growth has long been considered a key strategy for enhancing the well-being of populations in low-income countries. This approach has been supported by global surveys over the past few decades, which indicate that residents of high-income nations generally report greater life satisfaction compared to those in poorer countries.&nbsp;



The research was focused on individuals from small-scale societies at the margins of the global economy, where monetary transactions are less central to daily life and where people's livelihoods are intimately connected with nature.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-satisfaction-levels">Life satisfaction levels</h2>



By surveying 2,966 individuals from Indigenous and local communities across 19 globally distributed sites, the experts found that a significant portion of these populations, despite low levels of monetary income, reported life satisfaction levels on par with those found in affluent countries.



"Surprisingly, many populations with very low monetary incomes report very high average levels of life satisfaction, with scores similar to those in wealthy countries," said study lead author Eric Galbraith.



While not all communities reported high satisfaction levels, with some averages dipping to 5.1, four of the sites boasted scores exceeding 8, a figure comparable to the satisfaction levels of wealthy Scandinavian countries known for their high quality of life.&nbsp;



Remarkably, these high levels of satisfaction were reported even though many of these communities have endured histories of marginalization and oppression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspectives-on-happiness-nbsp">New perspectives on happiness&nbsp;</h2>



The results suggest that human societies can cultivate highly satisfying lives for their members without the need for substantial material wealth.&nbsp;



"The strong correlation frequently observed between income and life satisfaction is not universal and proves that wealth - as generated by industrialized economies - is not fundamentally required for humans to lead happy lives," said study senior author Victoria Reyes-Garcia.



The research opens up new perspectives on happiness and well-being, suggesting that the wealth generated by industrialized economies is not a fundamental requirement for leading a fulfilling life.



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



The implications of these findings are significant, particularly in the context of sustainability and the pursuit of human happiness. They provide strong evidence that pursuing resource-intensive economic growth is not necessary for achieving high levels of subjective well-being.&nbsp;



The researchers noted that, although they now know that people in many Indigenous and local communities report high levels of life satisfaction, they do not know why. Prior studies suggest that family and social support and relationships, spirituality, and connections to nature are among the important factors on which this happiness is based.&nbsp;



"But it is possible that the important factors differ significantly between societies or, conversely, that a small subset of factors dominate everywhere," said Galbraith.



"I would hope that, by learning more about what makes life satisfying in these diverse communities, it might help many others to lead more satisfying lives while addressing the sustainability crisis."



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Happiness beyond wealth: Some communities find joy in simplicity

New research provides the latest evidence that money doesn't buy...

A new study from the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> sheds light on the complex defensive mechanisms employed by nature. The researchers have unraveled the mystery behind the ultrasonic warning sounds produced by ermine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-moths-use-an-aphrodisiac-during-mating-to-feel-macho/">moths</a>, a species known as Yponomeuta. 



This discovery not only provides fascinating insights into the natural world but also holds potential implications for the fields of engineering and technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ermine-moths-nbsp">Ermine moths&nbsp;</h2>



Ermine moths, which lack hearing organs and are unaware of the sounds they produce, have developed an ingenious acoustic defense mechanism to deter their predators, primarily echolocating bats.&nbsp;



The researchers found that these moths generate ultrasonic clicking sounds at an astonishing rate of twice per wingbeat cycle. This sound production is facilitated by a minute corrugated membrane located in their hindwings, known as an "aeroelastic tymbal."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-defense-strategy-nbsp">Natural defense strategy&nbsp;</h2>



The study reveals that the unique sound production mechanism is a result of the snap-through buckling of individual ridges on the corrugated patch in the moth's hindwings during flight. The buckling causes a sudden vibration of an adjacent membrane, significantly amplifying the sound's strength and direction.&nbsp;



This process occurs passively, without any muscular action from the moth, highlighting the efficiency and elegance of this natural defense strategy.&nbsp;



“Our goal in this research was to understand how the corrugations in these tymbals can buckle and snap through in a choreographed way to produce a chain of broadband clicks," explained Professor Marc Holderied. "With this study, we unfolded the biomechanics that trigger the buckling sequence and shed light on how the clicking sounds are emitted through tymbal resonance.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ultrasonic-sound-production-nbsp">Ultrasonic sound production&nbsp;</h2>



Study first author Hernaldo Mendoza Nava investigated the mechanics of the aeroelastic tymbal as a PhD student at the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Advanced Composites for Innovation and Science of the Bristol Composites Institute (BCI).



"Sound production and radiation is linked to mechanical vibration, for example in the skin of a drum or a loudspeaker," said Mendoza.&nbsp;



“In ermine moths, the snap-through buckling events act like drumbeats at the edge of a tymbal drum, exciting a much larger portion of the wing to vibrate and radiate sound. As a result, these millimeter-sized tymbals can produce ultrasounds at the equivalent level of a lively human conversation."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interdisciplinary-research-nbsp">Interdisciplinary research&nbsp;</h2>



The team used advanced techniques from both biology and engineering mechanics to achieve their findings. Detailed computer simulations, along with biological characterization of the wing's morphology and material properties, enabled the researchers to accurately model the snap-through response and sound production, closely matching recorded moth signals.



“The integration of various methods across the sciences with a consistent information flow across discipline boundaries in the spirit of ‘team science’ is what made this study unique and a success," said co-author Rainer Groh. "In addition, without the amazing modern capabilities in imaging, data analysis and computation, uncovering the mechanics of this complex biological phenomenon would not have been possible."



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



The study not only contributes to our understanding of insect defense mechanisms against predators but also has broader implications for engineering and technology.&nbsp;



The phenomenon of structural buckling and sound production, though rarely studied together, presents exciting opportunities for developing morphing structures with enhanced functionality or efficiency, particularly in fields such as aerospace.



“In the realm of engineering design, nonlinear elastic responses, such as buckling and snap-through instabilities, have traditionally been perceived as failure modes to be avoided," said Professor Alberto Pirrera.&nbsp;



"In our research, we have been advocating a paradigm shift and have demonstrated that buckling events can be strategically leveraged to imbue structures with smart functionality or enhanced mass-efficiency. Yponomeuta’s aeroelastic tymbal embodies the concept of beneficial nonlinearity. The natural world, once again, serves as a source of inspiration.”



The study is published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.&nbsp;



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How ermine moths effortlessly produce ultrasonic warning sounds 

A new study from the University of Bristol sheds light...

Sad,Girl,Viewing,Negative,Reactions,And,Comments,On,Social,Media,

Recent research spearheaded by the University of Tokyo has unveiled a significant connection between bullied kids and the early stages of psychotic episodes. 



This disturbing study reveals that kids who are bullied by their peers have an increased risk of experiencing these early psychotic symptoms, while also exhibit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bullying-shrinks-brain-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lower levels</a> of a crucial neurotransmitter in the brain region responsible for emotion regulation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurotransmitters-bullying-and-kids-brains">Neurotransmitters, bullying, and kids' brains</h2>



The neurotransmitter in question plays a pivotal role in transmitting nerve impulses for communication by nerve cells. 



This discovery suggests that it could be a potential target for pharmaceutical treatments designed to mitigate the risk of developing psychotic disorders. 



Psychosis, characterized by a disconnection from reality, incoherent speech and behavior, and often accompanied by hallucinations and delusions, is a hallmark of severe psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glutamate-levels-and-mental-health">Glutamate levels and mental health</h2>



Delving into the neurological and psychiatric aspects of such disorders, researchers have noted that individuals facing their first psychotic episode or those with treatable schizophrenia show diminished levels of glutamate. 



This neurotransmitter, found in abundance in the brain's anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), is integral to a host of functions including learning, memory, and mood regulation. The ACC itself is crucial for managing emotions, making decisions, and cognitive control.



Alterations in glutamate levels have been linked to various psychiatric disorders, indicating that monitoring these levels can offer insights into the underlying mechanisms of these conditions and their potential treatments. 



However, the connection between altered glutamate levels in individuals at high risk of psychosis and the impact of bullying during adolescence has been less clear until now.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bullied-kids-and-psychotic-behavior">Bullied kids and psychotic behavior</h2>



To explore this, researchers employed magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to measure glutamate levels in the ACC region of Japanese adolescents. 



By assessing changes in these levels over time and correlating them with experiences of bullying or its absence, the study aimed to shed light on the relationship between brain chemistry and the psychological impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bullying-mental-health-overcome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bullying</a>.



The methodology involved tracking bullying victimization through questionnaires and using psychiatric measurements to evaluate these experiences, focusing on the frequency, nature, and overall mental health impact of physical or verbal aggression.



The findings were revealing: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infants-identify-bully/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bullying</a> was linked to higher levels of subclinical psychotic experiences in early adolescence. 



These symptoms, though not meeting the full criteria for a clinical diagnosis, include hallucinations, paranoia, or significant changes in thinking or behavior, impacting well-being and functionality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-to-combat-effects-of-bullying">Strategies to combat effects of bullying</h2>



Naohiro Okada, the lead author of the study and a project associate professor at the <a href="https://ircn.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a>’s International Research Center for Neurointelligence, emphasized the importance of studying these subclinical experiences. 



"Studying these subclinical psychotic experiences is important for us to understand the early stages of psychotic disorders and for identifying individuals who may be at increased risk for developing a clinical psychotic illness later on," Okada stated.



The study found a notable association between higher levels of subclinical psychotic experiences and lower levels of anterior cingulate glutamate in early adolescence. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-bullied-kids-a-call-to-action">Protecting bullied kids: A call to action</h2>



This link underscores the importance of addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bullying-race-sexual-orientation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bullying</a> in schools through anti-bullying programs that promote positive social interactions and reduce aggression, as Okada suggested. 



Such initiatives can foster a safe, supportive environment, potentially reducing the incidence of bullying and its adverse effects.



Moreover, Okada highlighted the need for supporting bullied adolescents through counseling, peer support, and other mental health resources to help them cope and build resilience. 



While pharmaceutical interventions targeting the identified neurotransmitter imbalance are a possibility, Okada also pointed to the potential of nonpharmacological approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy or mindfulness-based interventions.



In summary, this research illuminates the biochemical underpinnings of bullying's impact on mental health suggests options for both pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions to support at-risk adolescents. 



By addressing the root causes and effects of bullying, we can hope to mitigate the risk of psychosis and improve the well-being of young individuals facing these challenges.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-023-02382-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Molecular Psychology</a>.



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Bullied kids suffer chemical changes in their brains that cause lifelong harm

Recent research spearheaded by the University of Tokyo has unveiled...

Food availability may be a catalyst for cultural transmission among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orangutans-are-starving-from-fruit-shortages/">orangutans</a>, according to the results of a new study. Based on 18 years of observations of wild orangutans in Borneo and Sumatra, the researchers identified a relationship between an animal's ecological environment, resource availability, and social learning behaviors.



The study was a collaborative effort by experts at the <a href="https://www.eva.mpg.de/index/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology</a> (MPI-EVA), the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior (MPI-AB), and the University of Leipzig. 



"Social learning includes any learning that is influenced by the observation of or interaction with another individual," wrote the researchers.



"Culture, hence, at its most basic definition can be described as 'socially transmitted innovations,' and more specifically as the sum of 'all behaviors and knowledge that are acquired and passed on within and between generations through social learning.'"&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunities-for-social-learning-nbsp">Opportunities for social learning&nbsp;</h2>



While investigating how male orangutans learn from others, the experts found that individuals who grew up in habitats with an abundance of food were more likely to pay attention to social information.&nbsp;



This finding indicates that an animal's ecological surroundings directly influence its opportunities for social learning, thereby affecting the likelihood of new behaviors becoming cultural innovations.&nbsp;



“We’ve shown that animal’s ecological environment and respective resource availability has knock-on effects on an individual’s social learning opportunities, but also on their propensity for social learning over evolutionary time,” said study first author Julia Mörchen, a doctoral student at the University of Leipzig.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nomadic-lifestyle">Nomadic lifestyle</h2>



The research was focused on adult male orangutans, a demographic chosen for their unique life history traits. Once reaching maturity, male orangutans leave their birthplaces to lead nomadic lives, constantly learning to adapt to new environments. This migrant lifestyle makes them reliant on social learning to survive.



“This means that males are like perpetual tourists, so they have to constantly learn crucial behaviors, like what food is safe to eat, from experienced locals,” explained Mörchen. To learn new skills, the migrant males watch resident orangutans in a behavior known as “peering."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-insights-nbsp">Critical insights&nbsp;</h2>



In both Borneo and Sumatra, instances of migrant males peering at local residents were closely monitored.&nbsp;



The researchers discovered that males were more inclined to spend time near others and engage in peering when food was abundant. This provides evidence that an animal’s environment can modulate social learning, noted the researchers.&nbsp;



“When times are good, orangutans spend more time in close contact, and so there are more opportunities for social learning,” said Mörchen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stable-food-resources-nbsp">Stable food resources&nbsp;</h2>



A comparison between the Sumatran and Bornean populations further underscored the study's findings. Sumatran orangutans, living in areas with a high food supply, exhibited a higher rate of peering compared to their Bornean counterparts, who contend with less stable food resources.&nbsp;



This difference persisted even after accounting for the variations in food availability, indicating a deeper, possibly inherent propensity for social learning among Sumatran males.



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



The researchers pointed out that the study cannot disentangle the mechanisms driving the difference in the propensities to attend to social information.&nbsp;



“It could be the result of developmental effects, of Bornean and Sumatran orangutans growing up under different ecological conditions,” said Mörchen. “Or, it could be the result of genetic differences between the species that split approximately 674 thousand years ago, or a combination of both.”



“Our study provides a glimpse into how ecology may affect cultural transmission," said study senior author Caroline Schuppli. "We show that availability of food modulates social learning opportunities and thus how likely new behaviors are to become cultural,"&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2024.108940" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>. 



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Food availability influences social learning in orangutans

Food availability may be a catalyst for cultural transmission among...

The global carbon market's fastest-growing offset, which promotes the distribution of efficient cookstoves in developing nations to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, significantly overstates the stoves' carbon savings - by a tenfold margin, a recent investigation has revealed.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confidence-in-the-carbon-market-nbsp">Confidence in the carbon market&nbsp;</h2>



This discrepancy poses a significant challenge to combating climate change by enabling companies to claim climate goals and market “carbon neutral” products without actual reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. It also erodes confidence in the carbon market, thereby affecting the market’s capability to sustainably fund efficient stoves.



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



The study, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41893-023-01259-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Sustainability</a>, represents the first thorough, quantitative evaluation of any offset project type. Researchers at the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Berkeley</a> scrutinized five methodologies used to assess cookstove emission reductions against published studies and independent analyses. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clean-cooking-and-social-justice-nbsp">Clean cooking and social justice&nbsp;</h2>



Daniel Kammen, the James and Katherine Lau Distinguished Professor of Sustainability at UC Berkeley, emphasized the critical link between clean cooking and global strategies for social justice and climate, noting the significant attention the pre-published study has garnered.&nbsp;



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clean-cooking-could-save-half-a-million-lives-each-year/">Clean cooking</a> now figures very centrally on national decarbonization and sustainable development goal strategies, global funding cycles, and the political agenda of national leaders," said Kammen. "Integrating the science, human rights, and economics of clean cooking is now critically linked to both social justice and climate strategies around the planet.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-offset-credits">Carbon offset credits</h2>



The popularity of cookstove offsets stems from the global reliance on solid fuels or kerosene by approximately 2.4 billion people, contributing to millions of premature deaths and around 2% of global greenhouse gas emissions annually. In the first ten months of 2023, efficient cookstoves constituted the voluntary carbon market's fastest-growing project type and the second-largest share of issued credits.



Annelise Gill-Wiehl, a UC Berkeley Ph.D. candidate and the study’s first author, highlighted the potential of accurately estimated carbon offsets to support the distribution of efficient stoves, reducing fuel costs and potentially saving lives.&nbsp;



“Estimated correctly, carbon offsets have the potential to support the free or subsidized distribution of efficient stoves that reduce time spent collecting firewood or the cost of purchasing fuel,” she said.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-substantial-over-crediting">Substantial over-crediting</h2>



However, the study revealed substantial over-crediting, suggesting that many projects exaggerate stove usage and underestimate the continued use of traditional stoves, among other issues.



The Berkeley team’s recommendations for aligning cookstove methodologies with current science include prioritizing stoves that meet <a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a> health standards, as most market stoves do not. They developed a method for assessing offset quality, which can guide buyers, developers, and regulators towards high-quality credits that genuinely benefit health and climate goals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-nbsp">Key findings &nbsp;</h2>



In the sample covering 40% of cookstove credits, the team found that cookstoves were over-credited by a factor of 9.2 times. Across all cookstove offset credits from the studied methodologies, cookstoves were over-credited by approximately 10.6 times.&nbsp;



The Gold Standard’s Metered methodology, which directly monitors fuel use and credits the cleanest stoves, was found to be the most aligned with the study's estimates, overvalued by only a factor of 1.5. This methodology shows the greatest potential for emissions abatement and health benefits.



This investigation not only documents quality issues in the offset market but also provides actionable recommendations for trading in quality credits that align with Sustainable Development Goal progress, offering a paradigm shift towards clean fuels and stoves that can significantly support health and climate benefits.



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Cookstove emissions are underestimated by a factor of 10

The global carbon market's fastest-growing offset, which promotes the distribution...

Human,Brain,With,Nerve,Cells.,3d,Illustration

In our exploration of age-related dementia throughout history, a common belief is that this affliction is as old as humanity itself. 



However, research led by the University of Southern California (<a href="https://www.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC</a>) suggests a different history behind this disease.



This study delves into classical Greek and Roman medical texts, revealing that severe memory loss, now almost epidemic, was surprisingly rare around 2,000 to 2,500 years ago.



This finding strengthens the theory that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diet-plays-a-major-role-in-preventing-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer’s</a> and related dementias are largely products of modern lifestyles and environments. 



Factors like sedentary behavior and air pollution are significant contributors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-dementia-throughout-history">Tracking dementia throughout history</h2>



<a href="https://gero.usc.edu/faculty/finch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Caleb Finch</a>, the study's first author and a University Professor at the USC <a href="https://gero.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leonard Davis School of Gerontology</a>, sheds light on the ancient Greeks' understanding of memory issues. 



“The ancient Greeks had very, very few — but we found them — mentions of something that would be like mild cognitive impairment,” said Finch.



They acknowledged mild cognitive impairments, akin to what we identify today, but nothing on the scale of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medical-breakthrough-new-vaccine-may-prevent-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer’s</a>, which involves substantial loss of memory, speech, and reasoning.



The study's journey through ancient medical literature, including works by Hippocrates and his disciples, reveals intriguing insights. 



These texts extensively catalog ailments common in older people, such as deafness and dizziness, yet surprisingly omit significant memory loss. However, as we shift to ancient Rome, the narrative changes slightly. 



Notable figures like Galen and Pliny the Elder begin to document instances of memory decline in older populations. 



For example, Galen observed learning difficulties in some 80-year-olds, while Pliny the Elder recounted a senator who forgot his own name. Cicero, too, noted a kind of "elder silliness," though he didn't associate it with all older men.



“When we got to the Romans, and we uncovered at least four statements that suggest rare cases of advanced dementia -- we can’t tell if it’s Alzheimer’s. So, there was a progression going from the ancient Greeks to the Romans," Finch explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-factors-and-cognitive-decline">Environmental factors and cognitive decline</h2>



Finch, alongside co-author Stanley Burstein, a historian at <a href="https://www.calstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California State University</a>, Los Angeles, postulates that the denser Roman cities and increased pollution might have escalated cognitive decline cases. 



The use of lead in cooking vessels, water pipes, and even wine sweetening by Roman aristocrats likely exacerbated the issue, given lead's neurotoxic properties.



To further their understanding, Finch didn't limit his research to the ancient Western world. Lacking demographic data for ancient Greece and Rome, he turned to a modern comparison: the Tsimane Amerindians of the Bolivian Amazon. 



The Tsimane's preindustrial, physically active lifestyle mirrors that of the ancient civilizations, and significantly, they exhibit extremely low <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-abdominal-fat-linked-to-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a> rates. 



An international team, including Margaret Gatz, a professor at the USC Leonard Davis School, found that only about 1% of older Tsimane people suffer from dementia, a stark contrast to the 11% incidence in the United States' elder population.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-dementia-in-the-light-of-history">Rethinking dementia in the light of history</h2>



In summary, this comprehensive study, bridging ancient texts and contemporary groups, underscores the profound impact of environmental factors on dementia risk throughout history. 



The Tsimane community offers a valuable model for understanding how lifestyle choices influence cognitive health. 



As Finch notes, their minimal dementia rates provide a template for asking critical questions about the environment's role in this modern-day health challenge. 



“The Tsimane data, which is quite deep, is very valuable,” Finch said. “This is the best-documented large population of older people that have minimal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loss-of-smell-may-be-the-earliest-warning-of-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a>, all of which indicates that the environment is a huge determinant on dementia risk. They give us a template for asking these questions.”



This research revisits our historical understanding of dementia while providing suggestions for future studies, potentially reshaping our approach to preventing and managing this condition in the modern world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-history-of-dementia">More about the history of dementia</h2>



As discussed above, dementia describes a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily functioning. 



Dementia is not a single disease but rather a general term that encompasses various specific medical conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, observed throughout history.



This horrible infliction results from damage to brain cells, which affects their ability to communicate with each other, thereby affecting behavior, feelings, and thoughts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Causes and risk factors</h3>



Several factors contribute to the development of dementia. Age is the most significant risk factor, with most cases occurring in people 65 years or older. 



However, dementia can also affect younger people. Genetic factors play a role, as certain types of dementia run in families. 



Other risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychoactive-drug-relieves-symptoms-of-traumatic-brain-injury/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Traumatic brain injury</a> may also increase the risk of developing certain types of dementia.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Symptoms of dementia</h3>



The symptoms of dementia vary widely, depending on the cause and the area of the brain that's affected. 



Common signs include memory loss, difficulty in planning or solving problems, confusion with time or place, challenges in understanding visual images and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-spatial-awareness-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spatial relationships</a>, problems with speaking or writing, and changes in mood or personality. 



As dementia progresses, individuals may have difficulty performing everyday tasks and may become more dependent on others for care.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Diagnosis and treatment</h3>



Diagnosing dementia involves a thorough medical evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and sometimes brain imaging studies. 



While there is no cure for most types of dementia, treatment can help manage symptoms. Medications may be prescribed to improve symptoms related to memory, thinking, sleep disturbances, and behavior changes. 



Non-pharmacological therapies, such as cognitive stimulation, exercise, and activities tailored to the individual's interests and abilities, can also be beneficial.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Living with dementia</h3>



Living with dementia poses significant challenges for individuals and their families. It requires adjustments to living arrangements, daily routines, and communication methods. 



Support from healthcare professionals, social workers, and support groups can be invaluable in managing the disease. 



Creating a safe, supportive environment and maintaining a routine can help individuals with dementia feel more secure and less confused.



In summary, dementia is a complex condition that affects millions of individuals and their families worldwide. 



While it has been anecdotally present throughout human history, it has become increasingly common in the modern age. 



Early diagnosis and appropriate care strategies can help improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and provide support for their caregivers.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-alzheimers-disease/jad230993" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease</a>.



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Dementia was extremely rare in ancient times, so why is it now so prevalent?

In our exploration of age-related dementia throughout history, a common...

The frequency of unprovoked shark attacks around the globe saw an increase in 2023, marking a rise in both the number of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shark-attacks-decreased-in-2022-but-spiked-in-local-hotspots/">incidents</a> and fatalities from the previous year.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/shark-attacks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Shark Attack File</a> (ISAF) at the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/">University of Florida</a>, a comprehensive database tracking attacks worldwide, reported 69 unprovoked shark encounters for the year. This figure stands above the average of 63 shark attacks noted over the past five years, yet it aligns with the historical trend observed over the long term.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rise-in-fatalities-nbsp">Rise in fatalities&nbsp;</h2>



The year witnessed a notable rise in fatal unprovoked shark attacks, with ten recorded instances, a significant jump from the five fatalities documented in the prior year. Australia was particularly affected, where a large portion of these tragic events took place.&nbsp;



Despite accounting for only 22% of global attacks, Australia was the location for 40% of the fatal incidents. Additionally, the United States, the Bahamas, Egypt, Mexico, and New Caledonia each reported fatal attacks.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-encounters-nbsp">Widespread encounters&nbsp;</h2>



Non-fatal encounters were recorded in various locations, including Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, New Zealand, Seychelles, Turks and Caicos, Ecuador (specifically in The Galápagos Islands), and South Africa.



“This is within the range of the normal number of bites, though the fatalities are a bit unnerving this year,” said Gavin Naylor, who heads the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>’s shark research program.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprovoked-attacks-nbsp">Unprovoked attacks&nbsp;</h2>



In the United States alone, there were 36 unprovoked shark attacks, making up over half of the worldwide incidents. Among these, one fatal attack occurred in California and another in Hawaii. Consistently, Florida reported the highest number of shark encounters, with 16 documented cases.



The ISAF's annual report primarily focuses on unprovoked attacks, defined as incidents where a shark bites a human in its natural habitat without provocation. This distinction is crucial for understanding the inherent behavior of these marine predators.



“We’re biologists, and we want to understand the natural behavior of the animals - not the unnatural behavior,” explained Naylor.



Additionally, the ISAF recorded 22 provoked attacks within the same period, with spearfishing emerging as the most frequent activity during these encounters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-risk-for-surfers">Significant risk for surfers</h2>



The report highlighted a significant risk for surfers and those in Australia, noting three fatalities in 2023 at the Eyre Peninsula, a renowned surfing destination in Southern Australia known for its seal colonies and high concentration of white sharks.



“If a white shark is going after a seal and the seal knows it, the white shark hasn’t got a chance,” Naylor said. “Seals are really agile, so the only ones that get caught are the ones that are goofing off and flopping around on the surface minding their own business. And that’s kind of what a surfer looks like.”



Surfers constituted 42% of global shark bite victims, closely followed by swimmers and waders at 39%. The study also acknowledged the presence of bull sharks in Australian rivers, attributing one early 2023 fatality to this species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beach-safety-nbsp">Beach safety&nbsp;</h2>



Joe Miguez, a doctoral student in the Florida Program for Shark Research, emphasized the importance of beach safety, particularly in remote regions lacking established safety measures.



The majority of unprovoked shark attacks are believed to be "test bites," where sharks mistake humans for their usual prey. Despite the increase in attacks, the overall numbers remain consistent with the decade's average, underscoring the low probability of such incidents compared to other risks.



ISAF suggests several precautions for reducing the risk of shark bites, including staying close to shore and avoiding swimming at dawn or dusk. Further details and the complete 2023 report are available on the International Shark Attack File's website.



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Unprovoked shark attacks and fatalities increased in 2023

The frequency of unprovoked shark attacks around the globe saw...

Colorful,Painted,Bunting,(passerina,Ciris),On,A,Log

North America's bird populations have experienced a drastic decline, with an alarming loss of approximately 2.9 billion <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-feeding-benefits-people-as-much-as-birds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>, or more than one in four, since 1970. 



This decline signals an urgent need for change in our daily behaviors and environmental policies to halt and reverse this trend. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-root-causes-of-bird-population-decline">Root causes of bird population decline</h2>



<a href="https://fishwild.vt.edu/faculty/dayer.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ashley Dayer</a>, an associate professor at <a href="https://www.vt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a> and an expert in wildlife conservation, emphasizes the critical threats facing birds today.



These include habitat loss due to agricultural intensification and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/as-urban-heat-continues-to-rise-birds-are-moving-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urbanization</a>, climate change, window collisions, and predation by cats.



Dayer, whose research focuses on applying social science to wildlife conservation, highlights the vital role <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/body-sizes-and-shapes-of-birds-are-shrinking-as-the-earth-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> play in our ecosystems. 



They are not only indicators of environmental health but also contribute significantly by controlling pests and diseases. 



Furthermore, Dayer's research underlines the positive impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-traits-help-birds-thrive-in-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> have on human well-being through their sounds and the joy of observing them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mobilization-and-conservation-initiatives">Mobilization and conservation initiatives</h2>



To combat the decline, ecological and social scientists, along with conservationists, are intensifying their efforts. 



Initiatives like the "<a href="https://r2rbirds.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Road to Recovery: Saving Our Shared Birds</a>," spearheaded by Virginia Tech and <a href="https://www.georgetown.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgetown University</a>, aim to revamp conservation strategies. 



This initiative brought together nearly 200 leaders in bird conservation to focus on reversing the population declines of over 100 "tipping point species."



Dayer stresses the importance of collective action in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-interest-in-bird-feeding-was-unprecedented-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>, from researchers to the general public. 



The loss of the Po’ouli bird species in Maui, an event that profoundly affected Dayer early in her career, serves as a poignant reminder of what is at stake if we fail to act.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-we-can-help-bird-populations-rebound">How we can help bird populations rebound</h2>



To support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-is-luring-birds-to-their-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird conservation</a>, Dayer offers several practical recommendations for the public.



Keep Cats Indoors: Domestic and feral cats are natural predators of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rebellious-birds-use-anti-bird-spikes-to-build-their-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>. By keeping cats indoors, we can significantly reduce bird fatalities.



Make Windows Safer for Birds: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-do-migrating-birds-stop-to-rest-and-refuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birds</a> often cannot distinguish reflections from real habitats, leading to fatal collisions with windows. Simple measures like installing screens or using films to disrupt reflections can save lives.



Cultivate Native Plants: Enhancing our yards and gardens with native plants provides essential habitats for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diving-birds-face-a-greater-risk-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>, supporting their survival and well-being.



Support Bird-Friendly Coffee: Choosing coffee that is certified organic and grown in a manner that preserves <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/city-birds-are-developing-smaller-eyes-due-to-light-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird habitats</a> can help prevent the loss of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-plantations-limit-native-birds-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crucial tropical habitats</a>.



Participate in Citizen Science Projects: Engaging with projects such as <a href="https://feederwatch.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Project Feederwatch</a> and eBird allows individuals to contribute to important conservation science and help track bird populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unified-effort-for-bird-conservation">Unified effort for bird conservation</h2>



In summary, this disturbing research highlights the urgent need for concerted efforts to reverse the alarming decline in North America's bird populations, emphasizing practical steps individuals and communities can take to make a difference. 



By spotlighting the work of dedicated scientists like Ashley Dayer and mobilizing public support for initiatives like "Road to Recovery: Saving Our Shared Birds," it calls on everyone to play a role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-birds-are-struggling-to-adapt-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird conservation</a>. 



From keeping cats indoors to supporting bird-friendly agriculture, the team's research lays out a blueprint for action that aims to save bird species on the brink of extinction while underscoring the broader significance of birds to ecological health and human well-being. 



This rallying cry for avian conservation underscores a collective responsibility to preserve our planet's biodiversity for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-climate-change-on-bird-populations">Impact of climate change on bird populations</h2>



As discussed above, bird populations across the globe are facing significant challenges as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-climate-change-happening-too-fast-for-birds-to-keep-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> disrupts their habitats, food sources, and migratory patterns. 



Rising temperatures and shifting ecosystems are forcing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physical-changes-in-birds-linked-to-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds to adapt</a>, migrate, or face the risk of extinction. 



This urgent situation calls for immediate action to understand and mitigate the effects of a warming planet on avian life.



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



Climate change is transforming the landscapes birds have called home for ages. As their environments evolve, birds are finding it increasingly difficult to find suitable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-startling-impacts-of-artificial-light-on-backyard-birds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nesting sites</a> and reliable food sources. 



The timing of natural events, crucial for breeding and feeding, is no longer in sync with bird life cycles, causing a ripple effect on reproduction and survival rates.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Migration and extreme weather</h3>



The annual journeys of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-birds-have-new-strategy-to-cope-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a> are becoming more perilous with altered weather patterns and increased frequency of extreme weather events. 



These changes pose significant risks, from loss of navigational cues to heightened exposure to storms and droughts, threatening the very existence of these incredible travelers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Conservation efforts</h3>



In response to these challenges, a concerted effort is underway to protect bird populations. 



By creating adaptive habitats, safeguarding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/geomagnetic-disturbances-throw-nocturnal-birds-off-course/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration routes</a>, and advocating for climate-aware conservation policies, there is a growing movement aimed at securing a future for birds in a changing climate. 



Public involvement and global cooperation are key to turning the tide, highlighting the critical role everyone plays in conservation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Taking action</h3>



The fight to protect bird populations from climate change is a call to action for all. Reducing carbon emissions, supporting sustainable practices, and pushing for effective environmental policies are steps we can all take to make a difference. 



Together, we can ensure that birds, and the ecosystems they support, remain vibrant and resilient in the face of climate change, preserving the beauty and balance of nature for future generations.



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Bird population in North America has plummeted by 3 billion birds

North America's bird populations have experienced a drastic decline, with...

A new study is challenging the conventional approach to conservation that often leads to killing the non-native animals in a particular area in order to protect plant species. 



This practice, which costs millions of dollars and results in the death of millions of healthy wild animals, is based on the assumption that introduced large herbivores, or megafauna, harm ecosystems by damaging sensitive plants, reducing native plant diversity, and supporting invasive plant species. 



However, this new research from <a href="https://international.au.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>, Denmark, and the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, UK, suggests that the distinction between native and non-native large herbivores may not be as clear-cut as previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-practices-of-killing-non-native-animals">Challenging practices of killing non-native animals</h2>



The researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis comparing the effects of native and introduced large mammal species on plant abundance and diversity across 221 studies worldwide. 



Their findings revealed that both groups have similar impacts on native plant communities. 



Dr. Jeppe Kristensen from the University of Oxford's Environmental Change Institute shared his thoughts. 



"We do not find evidence to support the claim that native large herbivores have different impacts on ecosystems, specifically plant communities in this case, than their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/economic-time-bomb-costs-of-invasive-species-are-greatly-underestimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-native</a> counterparts," said Dr. Kristensen.



"Therefore, we should study the ecological roles these animals - native or not - play in ecosystems rather than judge them based on their belonging."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trait-based-effects-on-ecosystems">Trait-based effects on ecosystems</h2>



Interestingly, the study found that the ecological effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/free-ranging-cats-are-one-of-the-most-problematic-invasive-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive animals</a> are more closely related to their traits than their nativeness. 



For example, small-bodied selective feeders like deer tend to reduce plant diversity, whereas larger, non-selective feeders such as buffalo are more likely to enhance it. 



This is attributed to the inability of large animals to selectively feed, which prevents the dominance of certain plant species and promotes biodiversity.



Moreover, the study notes the unique impact of individual animal body mass over the collective weight of animals in an area, underscoring the distinct roles large animals play in shaping ecosystems. 



Dr Kristensen explained, "While one elephant can push over a mid-sized tree, 50 red deer cannot. You can’t total the body mass to understand the effect of animal presence on the landscape, you have to consider the effect of each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-american-mink-has-spread-throughout-europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal species</a> present."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paradox-of-culling-rethinking-conservation">Paradox of culling: Rethinking conservation</h2>



This research also addresses the broader implications of eradicating non-native animals, many of which are endangered in their native habitats. 



The paradox of spending millions to remove these animals from areas where they are considered invasive, while their populations decline elsewhere, raises questions about current conservation priorities. 



Professor Jens-Christian Svenning from Aarhus University suggests, "This interpretation suggests that functional niches vacated by extinctions and extirpations in recent prehistory, often due to humans, are better refilled with animals with similar functional traits as the ones that were lost even if these new species are non-native or feral."



The study emphasizes the need to reassess how we perceive native and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unseen-crisis-37000-alien-species-have-been-introduced-by-human-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-native species</a> and their roles in ecosystems. 



Rather than focusing solely on the concept of belonging, conservation strategies should prioritize re-establishing essential ecosystem functions, potentially through the adaptive introduction of non-native species. 



Lead author Dr Erick Lundgren (Aarhus University) concluded, ‘"Our findings suggest it is time to start using the same standards to understand the effects of native and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-red-fire-ants-have-made-their-way-to-europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">introduced organisms</a> alike and to consider seriously the implications of eradication and culling programs that are based on cultural notions of “belonging.” Instead, introduced animals should be studied in the same way as any native wildlife, through the lens of functional ecology."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-include-non-native-animals-instead-of-killing-them">Include non-native animals instead of killing them</h2>



In summary, this transformative study urges the conservation community to reconsider long-held beliefs about the role of native and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urgent-need-to-protect-earths-forests-from-non-native-pests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-native species</a> within ecosystems. 



By demonstrating that the impact of large herbivores on plant diversity and abundance is more a matter of individual traits than origin, it challenges the costly and often counterproductive practice of killing non-native animal species solely based on their non-native status. 



Instead, the findings advocate for an adaptive conservation approach that prioritizes ecological function and embraces the potential of non-native species to fill crucial roles left vacant by extinct species. 



This paradigm shift could not only enhance biodiversity conservation efforts but also encourage a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of species' contributions to ecosystem health and resilience.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adh2616" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Killing animals that "don't belong" in an ecosystem is a harmful strategy

A new study is challenging the conventional approach to conservation...

Picturesque,Village,On,Coast,Of,Greenland,-,Colorful,Houses,In

In an era where rising sea levels present a global concern, Greenland's unique situation provides a contrasting narrative. 



Recent research conducted by the Technical University of Denmark (<a href="https://www.dtu.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DTU</a>) has unveiled a remarkable phenomenon. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-shelves-have-lost-over-35-percent-of-their-volume/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a>'s bedrock is not only rising, it's doing so at an accelerated pace, with an increase of up to 20 cm over the last decade (2013-2023). 



This translates to an estimated uplift of 2 meters per century, a rate that far exceeds Greenland's current sea level rise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-sea-levels-and-greenland-s-uplift">Science, sea levels, and Greenland's uplift</h2>



This significant land uplift, as observed by the research team led by Danjal Longfors Berg, a Ph.D. student at DTU Space, is driven by the melting of Greenland's ice sheet. 



As the ice melts, it alleviates the pressure on the bedrock beneath, allowing the land to rise. 



Berg explains, "These are quite significant land uplifts that we can now demonstrate. They indicate that local changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-absorbs-more-methane-than-it-emits-surprising-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a> are happening very rapidly, impacting life in Greenland." 



This uplift not only influences the local ecosystem but also alters Greenland's physical map, leading to the emergence of new landforms such as small islands and skerries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">GNET: Precisely monitoring Greenland sea levels</h2>



The study leverages data from <a href="https://go-gnet.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GNET</a> -- a network of 61 measurement stations scattered along Greenland's coasts. 



GNET serves as a critical infrastructure for monitoring ice melt and land uplift with millimeter precision, thanks to GNSS technology, including the GPS system. 



Morten Hvidberg, the Vice Director of the Agency for Data Supply and Infrastructure, highlights GNET's role. 



"GNET is a fundamental geodetic infrastructure, providing data to measure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-is-melting-faster-in-greenland-and-slower-in-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice melting</a> and land uplift. GNET enables researchers, including those at DTU Space, to precisely monitor climate changes," explained Hvidberg.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-warming-s-role-in-this-phenomenon">Global warming's role in this phenomenon</h2>



The phenomenon of land uplift in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-greenland-ice-sheet-is-teeming-with-microorganisms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a> is not solely a consequence of the post-ice age recovery process. 



The landmass was compressed under the weight of a thick ice sheet during the last ice age, and although the ice age concluded approximately 12,000 years ago, the land continues to rise as it rebounds from the loss of ice. 



However, the recent acceleration in uplift rates along <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/mysterious-arc-joins-ice-on-a-fjord-in-western-greenland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland's coast</a> over the past two decades is attributed to the increased melting of the ice sheet, a direct impact of global warming.



"The land uplift we observe in Greenland these years cannot be solely explained by the natural post-ice age development," emphasized Professor Shfaqat Abbas Khan, a co-author of the study.



"Greenland is rising significantly more. With our data from GNET, we can precisely isolate the part of land <a href="https://phys.org/tags/uplift/">uplift</a> caused by the current global climate changes," he concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humbling-reminder-of-climate-change-complexity">Humbling reminder of climate change complexity</h2>



This fascinating research conducted by DTU uncovered surprising data on Greenland's unique geological response to climate change, documenting a significant uplift of the bedrock attributed to the melting of the ice sheet. 



This phenomenon, which contrasts with the global trend of rising sea levels, underscores the intricate and localized impacts of climate change, challenging our understanding of its global effects. 



By leveraging precise data from the GNET network, the study provides invaluable insights into the rapid changes occurring in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-of-a-greener-greenland-reveals-shocking-reality-of-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland</a>, while emphasizing the critical role of advanced monitoring technologies in deciphering the multifaceted nature of environmental changes. 



As Greenland continues uplifting above rising sea levels, this research serves as a crucial reminder of the need for continued observation and study to fully grasp the complex dynamics of our changing planet.



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



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Greenland no longer has to worry about rising sea levels

In an era where rising sea levels present a global...

A team of researchers from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> has developed a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/squishy-robot-designed-for-space-now-assists-emergency-workers-on-earth/">robot</a> equipped with a sensor capable of reading braille at speeds nearly double that of the average human reader. 



This innovative robot can interpret braille text at a remarkable 315 words per minute with close to 90% accuracy, showcasing a significant leap forward in the field of tactile sensing technology.



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



The research was not initially aimed at creating assistive technology for the visually impaired. Instead, its primary goal was to explore the possibilities of enhancing robotic sensitivity to mimic the touch of human fingertips.&nbsp;



This sensitivity is crucial for tasks that require a delicate touch, such as differentiating textures or applying the correct amount of force to grasp objects without causing damage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-replicating-fingertip-sensitivity">Replicating fingertip sensitivity</h2>



Human fingertips are extraordinarily sensitive, allowing us to perform complex tasks with ease, from picking up fragile items like eggs without breaking them to handling heavier objects such as bowling balls securely. Replicating this level of sensitivity in robots has been a challenging task, especially in a manner that is energy efficient.&nbsp;



However, the research team, led by Professor Fumiya Iida of Cambridge’s Department of Engineering, is making strides in overcoming these challenges by developing robotic capabilities that mimic human skills.



“The softness of human fingertips is one of the reasons we’re able to grip things with the right amount of pressure,” said study first author Parth Potdar. “For robotics, softness is a useful characteristic, but you also need lots of sensor information, and it’s tricky to have both at once, especially when dealing with flexible or deformable surfaces.”



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



The robot’s ability to read braille with such high efficiency is due in part to its innovative design, which incorporates a camera within its "fingertip" to read the text.&nbsp;



This design allows the robot to glide over braille lines smoothly, mimicking the more natural reading behavior of humans, unlike previous robotic readers that read braille one letter at a time in a more static and less efficient manner.



“There are existing robotic braille readers, but they only read one letter at a time, which is not how humans read,” explained study co-author David Hardman. “Existing robotic braille readers work in a static way: they touch one letter pattern, read it, pull up from the surface, move over, lower onto the next letter pattern, and so on. We want something that’s more realistic and far more efficient.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-machine-learning-algorithms-nbsp">Machine learning algorithms&nbsp;</h2>



To tackle the challenges of motion blur and the need for precise image processing, the team employed machine learning algorithms. These algorithms were trained on a dataset of sharp braille images with artificially applied blur, enabling the robot to "deblur" images before attempting character recognition.&nbsp;



Once the algorithms were incorporated, the researchers tested their reader by sliding it quickly along rows of braille characters. The robotic braille reader could read at 315 words per minute at 87% accuracy, which is twice as fast and about as accurate as a human Braille reader.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-accuracy-nbsp">Surprising accuracy&nbsp;</h2>



“Considering that we used fake blur the train the algorithm, it was surprising how accurate it was at reading braille,” said Hardman. “We found a nice trade-off between speed and accuracy, which is also the case with human readers.”



“Braille reading speed is a great way to measure the dynamic performance of tactile sensing systems, so our findings could be applicable beyond braille, for applications like detecting surface textures or slippage in robotic manipulation,” said Potdar.



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



The implications of this research extend beyond the immediate ability to read braille at unprecedented speeds. The study represents a significant step forward in the quest to create robots with a sense of touch that rivals human capabilities, which could revolutionize how robots interact with the world around them.



Looking ahead, the experts aim to scale this technology to be applicable for use in humanoid hands or synthetic skin, potentially opening up new avenues for robotic applications in various fields.&nbsp;



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Robot trained to read braille with remarkable speed

A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge has...

The quest to understand the universe beyond our solar system has taken a significant leap forward thanks to the pioneering research into Neptune-like exoplanets, a term that seems borrowed from science fiction but refers to planets orbiting stars outside our solar system. 



The ExoLab at the <a href="https://www.ku.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kansas</a> stands at the forefront of this exploration, utilizing data from space telescopes like the Hubble and Webb to peer into the cosmic beyond.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-like-allure-of-distant-worlds">Earth-like allure of distant worlds</h2>



Exoplanets, especially those within our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> that tantalize us with their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-exoplanet-k2-18-have-the-right-conditions-to-support-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth-like</a> qualities or potential to harbor life, have captured the public's imagination. 



Yet, it's the work of researchers like Jonathan Brande, a doctoral candidate at the ExoLab, that deepens our understanding of these distant worlds. 



Brande's recent research has unveiled new atmospheric details of 15 Neptune-like exoplanets, offering insights into their composition and behavior.



Brandes explains the core of his research revolves around a technique known as transmission spectroscopy. This method involves observing the light from a star as it passes through the atmosphere of a planet in transit. 



By analyzing the spectrum of light, researchers can detect the presence of various gases in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifting-the-veil-on-alien-exoplanets-with-hazy-atmospheres/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet's atmosphere</a>, unveiling the secrets it holds. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-neptune-size-exoplanets">New perspective on Neptune-size exoplanets</h2>



This meticulous process has led to Brande's significant discovery of water vapor in the atmosphere of the exoplanet <a href="https://exoplanets.nasa.gov/exoplanet-catalog/7898/toi-674-b/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TOI-674 b</a>, a "warm Neptune," shedding light on the atmospheric conditions of such distant worlds.



Under the guidance of <a href="https://crossfield.ku.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ian Crossfield</a>, associate professor of physics &amp; astronomy at KU, Brande's work is part of a broader initiative to explore the atmospheres of Neptune-sized exoplanets. 



Their recent paper builds on this foundation, incorporating additional observations to discern why some exoplanets exhibit cloudy atmospheres while others appear clear. 



The study seeks to understand the physical phenomena behind these atmospheric differences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-aerosols-in-atmospheric-observation">Role of aerosols in atmospheric observation</h2>



A fascinating aspect of Brande's research is the attention given to atmospheric aerosols, such as clouds or hazes, and their impact on the transmission of light through the planet's atmosphere. 



Brande notes that when clouds or hazes form high in the atmosphere, they can significantly block or alter the light passing through, affecting the spectrum observed by researchers. 



“With Hubble, the single gas we're most sensitive to is water vapor. If we observe water vapor in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-weather-exoplanet-wasp-121-b-has-a-dynamic-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet's atmosphere</a>, that's a good indication that there are no clouds high enough to block its absorption," Brande said. 



"Conversely, if water vapor is not observed and only a flat spectrum is seen, despite knowing that the planet should have an extended atmosphere, it suggests the likely presence of clouds or hazes at higher altitudes.”



This understanding is crucial for interpreting the data collected from space telescopes and offers a window into the atmospheric conditions of these distant worlds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-techniques-for-hunting-neptune-like-exoplanets">Techniques for hunting Neptune-like exoplanets</h2>



This research was a collaborative effort involving experts from around the globe, including Laura Kreidberg's team at the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/institutes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> in Heidelberg, Germany, and Caroline Morley's group at the <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas</a>, Austin. 



Together, they adopted a novel approach to analyzing the atmospheres of small Neptune-like exoplanets, moving beyond the traditional method of fitting observational data to a single model spectrum.



Instead, Brande utilized a technique called "atmospheric retrieval," which involves simulating various atmospheric conditions -- ranging from water vapor levels to cloud locations -- and iterating through thousands of simulations to identify the most accurate representation of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-telescopes-can-directly-detect-signs-of-alien-life-in-exoplanet-atmospheres/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet's atmosphere</a>. 



"Our retrievals gave us a best-fit model spectrum for each planet," Brande states, enabling the team to assess the clarity of the planet's atmosphere. 



This method not only provided a clearer understanding of the atmospheric composition but also allowed for a comparison with separate models by Caroline Morley, affirming the team's findings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peeling-back-the-layers-of-exoplanetary-clouds">Peeling back the layers of exoplanetary clouds</h2>



The analysis revealed that clouds, rather than hazes, were more consistent with the observed data, characterized by low sedimentation efficiencies that resulted in "fluffy" clouds. 



These clouds, composed of particles like water droplets, remained suspended in the atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the dynamic processes governing these distant worlds.



The implications of Brande's research extend beyond academic curiosity, sparking "substantial interest" at a recent meeting of the <a href="https://aas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Astronomical Society</a>. 



Moreover, the team's work is part of a broader international observation program led by Crossfield, which recently announced the discovery of water vapor on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-finds-a-water-rich-planet-with-a-steamy-atmosphere-named-gj-9827d/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GJ 9827d</a> -- a planet 97 light-years away in the constellation Pisces, with temperatures akin to those of Venus.



These findings, part of a concerted effort to detect water vapor on sub-Neptune-type planets, underscore the potential diversity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-17-exoplanets-that-have-oceans-and-possibly-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water-rich planets</a> within the Milky Way. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-the-frontier-of-exoplanetary-science">Advancing the frontier of exoplanetary science</h2>



The collaboration with Pierre-Alexis Roy of the Trottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets at <a href="https://exoplanetes.umontreal.ca/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Université de Montréal</a>, who led the observations on GJ 9827d, highlights the interconnected nature of exoplanetary research. 



Brande's inclusion of Roy's data in his analysis strengthens the collective understanding of these planets' atmospheres, demonstrating the value of collaboration in uncovering the secrets of the cosmos.



In summary, this diverse group of scientists has made significant advancements in the understanding of exoplanet atmospheres. 



By employing innovative techniques, such as atmospheric retrieval and collaborating across borders, they have unveiled the composition and behavior of Neptune-like exoplanets while sparking considerable interest within the scientific community. 



Their findings, particularly regarding the presence of water vapor and the nature of atmospheric clouds, underscore the complexity and diversity of planets beyond our solar system. 



This work represents a crucial step forward in exoplanetary science, offering new insights and paving the way for future discoveries in the quest to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos.



The full study was published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad1b5c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



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Neptune-like exoplanets are often more interesting than their Earth-size neighbors

The quest to understand the universe beyond our solar system...

<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.

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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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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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.

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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