Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy.



This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-aspens-and-elk">Yellowstone, aspens, and elk</h2>



In the 1920s, people <a href="https://www.yellowstone.org/wolf-project/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eliminated wolves in Yellowstone</a>. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right thing to do.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/">Without wolves</a>, elk herds grew very large. Elk love to eat aspen shoots - the tender young growth is highly palatable to them.



For roughly 70 years, elk browsed aspen sprouts down to stub height, and the trees couldn't grow. 



If you had walked through Yellowstone in the 1980s, you would have seen many tiny aspen shoots covering the ground, but almost no young trees gaining height. 



The forest's regeneration was stalled. Old trees died, and no new ones replaced them.



In 1995 and 1996, park managers reintroduced wolves into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/">Yellowstone Park ecosystem</a>. Scientists hoped and wondered whether this would change anything for the trees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-aspen-matter-to-yellowstone">Why aspen matter to Yellowstone</h2>



Aspen groves provide habitat for many species. Birds nest in them. Beavers eat the bark and use the wood for dams. Butterflies and moths lay eggs on the leaves. 



Their canopy admits enough light for wildflowers and shrubs to grow beneath. When it rains, aspen groves hold water in the soil better than some other forest types.



In short, when aspen return, dozens of other species benefit. More trees support more insects, which in turn support more birds, enriching the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-checking-the-trees-three-decades-later">Checking the trees three decades later</h2>



<a href="https://fwcs.oregonstate.edu/users/luke-painter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke Painter</a>, an ecologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, sought clear answers. His team returned to 87 aspen stands across Yellowstone that scientists had previously surveyed. 



They measured thousands of young trees, looked for bite marks, and counted how many stems were tall enough that elk could no longer reach the tips.



About a third of these stands now have many tall young aspens pushing toward the canopy. 



"About 26 of the 87 aspen stands we examined had large numbers of tall saplings throughout, a remarkable change from the 1990s when surveys found none at all," Painter said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolves-matter-to-yellowstone-aspens">Why wolves matter to Yellowstone aspens</h2>



Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-move-pups-across-mountains-to-adapt-to-climate-pressure/">Wolves hunt elk</a>. When wolves came back, two things happened. First, elk numbers declined from unusually high levels. Second, elk changed their behavior. They spent less time in the same areas feeding.



With fewer elk and shorter feeding bouts, more aspen shoots survived long enough to exceed the browsing zone - about six to seven feet high. 



Once a sapling reaches that height, elk cannot easily reach the growing tip. The tree continues to grow.



"The reintroduction of large carnivores has initiated a recovery process that had been shut down for decades," Painter explained.



Scientists call this a <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/trophic-cascades-across-diverse-plant-ecosystems-80060347/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic cascade</a> - when adding or removing one species causes changes that ripple through the whole system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-places-recover-others-don-t">Some places recover, others don't</h2>



Unfortunately, not every aspen stand has recovered yet. Some valleys still have many short, heavily browsed shoots, because it's not only elk eating them anymore. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-iconic-bison-have-merged-into-a-single-herd/">Bison herds have grown</a>, and bison browse on aspen as well. They are strong enough to break young trees. 



"Increasing numbers of bison may be emerging as a new constraint to aspen in some areas," Painter confirmed.



Additionally, winter snow depth varies; droughts stress trees; bears and mountain lions also hunt elk; and hunting outside the park influences elk distribution. 



All of these factors interact, which is why some sites show strong recovery, others show moderate recovery, and a few have changed very little.



The key pattern is that places with many tall saplings experience little browsing, and aspen groves that remain popular eating grounds today stay short. 



This fact is the strongest indication that tree recovery is linked directly to wolf presence, not solely to weather or soil conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-in-the-measurements">Proof in the measurements</h2>



Painter's team did not rely on casual observation. They used the same methods as earlier researchers, measuring the same plots. 



They counted recruitment - when young trees surpass browsing height and begin progressing toward maturity. This measure is crucial. Sprouts are insufficient if they never grow; without recruitment, the forest cannot replace itself.



The results are robust. After being stalled for most of a century, Yellowstone's aspens are increasing in height. In recovering stands today, you will see saplings - six, eight, or ten feet tall - that were not present in the 1990s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-yellowstone-s-aspens">The future of Yellowstone's aspens</h2>



"This is a remarkable case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-may-be-near-the-root-of-all-life-on-earth/">ecological restoration</a>," Painter concluded. "Wolf reintroduction is yielding long-term ecological changes contributing to increased biodiversity and habitat diversity."



Trees grow slowly, so even with wolves restored, it will take decades for these young aspens to form a full-grown forest. 



Some areas might never fully recover if bison numbers continue to rise or if the climate becomes too hot and dry.



Thanks to the work of Painter and his team, scientists are now certain that restoring the Yellowstone predator has restarted aspen forest regeneration. Not everywhere and not perfectly, but enough to be measured, creating hope for the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112725004499?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Yellowstone's aspen trees are growing again thanks to the reintroduction of wolves

Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy. This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns. Yellowstone, aspens, and elk In the 1920s, people eliminated wolves in Yellowstone. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right...

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...

Power,Plant,With,Tree.,Green,Industry,Eco,Power,For,Sustainable

Scientists have discovered that removing harmful emissions from the atmosphere by decarbonizing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">industrial sector</a> worldwide could potentially be reduced by up to 85%. 



The industrial sector, encompassing the production of iron, steel, chemicals, cement, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food and beverages</a>, is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for about a quarter of the total. 



These emissions are a driving force behind climate change and the resulting extreme weather conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technologies-that-can-turn-the-tide">Technologies that can turn the tide</h2>



Spearheaded by the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a>, the research, a collaborative effort within the UK Energy Research Centre (<a href="https://ukerc.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UKERC</a>), indicates that decarbonizing the industrial sector is not only possible but feasible with a combination of existing and emerging technologies. 



<a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemical-engineering/staff/9021/ahmed-gailani" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ahmed Gailani</a> is the study's lead author and Research Fellow in Industrial Decarbonization at Leeds’ School of Chemical and Process Engineering. 



“Decarbonization is a global priority for governments, companies, and society at large, because it plays such a vital role in limiting global warming," Gailani said.  



The findings of this research are a testament to the potential for significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-plan-to-reduce-auto-emissions-received-with-skepticism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emission reductions</a> through the adoption of both "high and low-maturity" technologies. 



These include proven solutions like carbon capture and storage, as well as innovative approaches such as fuel switching to hydrogen or biomass. 



Gailani celebrated their research, saying, “Our findings represent a major step forward in helping to design industrial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cooling-sector-emissions-could-be-drastically-reduced-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decarbonization strategies</a> and that is a really encouraging prospect when it comes to the future health of the planet.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-carbon-capture-to-electric-steam-crackers">From carbon capture to electric steam crackers</h2>



Additionally, the study highlights the potential of low-maturity electric technologies, like electric steam crackers, to decarbonize up to 100% of direct emissions in some sectors.



<a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemical-engineering/staff/559/professor-peter-taylor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Taylor</a>, is a co-author of the study and Professor of Sustainable Energy Systems. He underlines the necessity for evidence-based strategies to foster new technologies, incentivize investment in infrastructure, and overcome barriers preventing companies from taking action. 



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-chief-fossil-fuel-era-must-end-for-humanitys-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Industrial decarbonization</a> is challenging compared to other sectors but can be achieved if evidence-based strategies are designed to enable the development of new technologies, encourage investment in related infrastructure, and reduce other barriers that make it difficult for companies to take action," Taylor explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-national-policy-implications-and-action">National policy implications and action</h2>



Taylor warns that failure to decarbonize the industry could lead to the UK missing its climate change targets and risk the future viability of its industrial sector.



“For the UK, if we don't decarbonize industry, we won't meet our climate change targets and ultimately industry will move elsewhere because, in the long term, people will be looking for products made in a clean, green way and if our industry can’t produce these then it will become the industry of the past, not the industry of the future," Taylor implored.



The implications of this research are far-reaching. The UK has committed to achieving net zero <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-finalizes-ambitious-rule-to-slash-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> by 2050, a goal that requires balancing emitted gases with an equivalent amount of removals from the atmosphere. 



The insights from this study are already influencing policy, having been incorporated into a consultation on enabling industrial electrification by the UK’s <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-energy-security-and-net-zero" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Energy Security and Net Zero</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tech-solutions-can-remove-industrial-emissions">Tech solutions can remove industrial emissions</h2>



As the global economy continues to grow, so does the demand for industrial products like steel, chemicals, and cement. This growth leads to increased energy consumption and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-expected-to-reach-a-new-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a>. 



However, meeting the <a href="https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paris Agreement</a> targets on climate change necessitates a near-total elimination of global industrial emissions.



This research highlights the technical feasibility of cutting down emissions by up to 85% across various sectors, including iron and steel, chemicals, cement and lime, and more. 



“We wanted to be explicit about the fact that our focus was the technical side of industrial decarbonization. There are of course many other barriers to overcome," Dr. Gailani emphasized.



"For example, if carbon capture and storage technologies are needed but the means to transport CO2 are not yet in place, this lack of infrastructure will delay the emissions reduction process. There is still a great amount of work to be done.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-hurdle-of-decarbonization">Economic hurdle of decarbonization</h2>



The study also sheds light on the economic challenges inherent in adopting decarbonization technologies. 



High capital and operational costs, especially for electrification technologies, present significant hurdles due to the higher electricity costs in many markets. 



This economic factor is crucial for understanding the pace at which these technologies can be adopted.



The collaborative effort among leading universities assessed the technical potential for emission and energy savings from key <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biofuels-may-eliminate-90-of-black-smoke-emissions-from-cars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emission-reducing technologies</a>. 



By reviewing published research and data, the team identified the most promising technologies for each sector, calculating an average emission abatement potential of 85%.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-industrial-emissions-requires-policymakers">Reducing industrial emissions requires policymakers</h2>



Professor Rob Gross, Director of UKERC, highlighted the importance of a whole systems approach to industrial decarbonization. 



“Industrial decarbonization is an important research priority for UKERC as finding the most appropriate solutions requires a whole systems approach," Gross explained.



"Many of the most promising industrial abatement options rely on having access to supporting infrastructure whether that is hydrogen and CO2 pipelines, or upgraded electricity connections.” 



Dr. Gailani views this research as a crucial first step in helping policymakers understand the diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/game-changing-invention-converts-both-co2-and-plastic-waste-into-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technological potentials</a> for reducing emissions in each industrial sector. 



This understanding is vital for making informed decisions on the best paths forward for decarbonization.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-industrial-emissions-policies-need-further-planning">Industrial emissions policies need further planning</h2>



In summary, this study illuminates the complex yet feasible path toward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-control-u-s-will-invest-1-2b-in-direct-air-capture-initiatives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decarbonizing industries</a>, underscoring the vital role of cutting-edge research in identifying technical solutions capable of significantly reducing emissions across key industrial sectors.



By highlighting the necessity of overcoming economic, infrastructural, and social barriers, the team calls for a collaborative, multi-faceted approach. 



Policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the global community must work together to implement these technologies, addressing the challenges of high costs and the need for supportive infrastructure. 



The study emphasizes the crucial need for a whole systems approach to achieve a sustainable, low-carbon industrial future. 



While the technical potential for decarbonization is significant, realizing this potential will require comprehensive strategies that go beyond technology alone.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2542435124000266">Joule</a>.



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Decarbonizing the world’s industries is now possible with current technology

Scientists have discovered that removing harmful emissions from the atmosphere...

Researchers at <a href="https://en.nagoya-u.ac.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nagoya University</a> in Japan have investigated how global warming affects the intensity of typhoons. The study revealed that compact, fast-moving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hurricane-related-deaths-on-the-rise-especially-in-vulnerable-communities/">storms</a> are becoming more powerful as temperatures rise.



Tropical cyclones pose a significant threat to East Asia with their capacity for widespread disruption, damage, and loss of life.



"Intense tropical cyclones (TCs) often cause extreme destruction. Therefore, to prevent future disasters, it is essential to understand how warmer environmental conditions will affect intense TCs," wrote the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-cyclone-intensity-nbsp">Tropical cyclone intensity&nbsp;</h2>



Tropical cyclone intensity is closely linked to the sea surface temperatures, which are on the rise due to global warming. The increase in sea surface temperature (SST) has a varied impact on typhoons, depending on their size and speed.&nbsp;



As the size of a cyclone increases, the sea surface temperature decreases, limiting its intensity. However, under global warming, the sea surface temperature is higher. As a result, typhoons may last longer.&nbsp;



“The rise in sea temperatures is concerning because a typical compact, fast-moving storm, for example Typhoon Faxai in 2019, caused severe damage to eastern Japan,” noted study lead author Sachie Kanada. “Our findings show the intensity of such typhoons can strengthen under global warming conditions.”&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-simulations">Advanced simulations</h2>



The researchers delved into the dynamics of the relationship between global warming and tropical cyclone intensity using the advanced CReSS-NHOES simulator.



The simulator combines the cloud simulation model CReSS from Nagoya University with the oceanographic model NHOES from the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology. This provides a sophisticated tool to assess the interaction between the atmosphere and the ocean, and its effect on typhoon intensity.



The research was focused on four typhoons - Trami (2018), Faxai (2019), Hagibis (2019), and Haishen (2020) - each varying in size and demonstrating the grave impact typhoons can have through extensive damage and loss of life.&nbsp;



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



By evaluating scenarios across different sea surface temperature increases (from preindustrial levels to rises of 2°C and 4°C), the experts observed significant variations in how typhoons strengthen with each degree Celsius increase in sea surface temperature.&nbsp;



“We found that the degree to which typhoons strengthened per 1°C rise in SST varies significantly from typhoon to typhoon,” said Kanada.&nbsp;



The researchers were surprised by the change in hPa, a unit of pressure used in meteorology to measure atmospheric pressure and which represents the strength and intensity of a storm. “A typhoon, such as Trami, strengthens by only 3.1 hPa, while Faxai strengthens by as much as 16.2 hPa with a 1°C rise in SST.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-atmosphere-coupling-effect">Ocean-atmosphere coupling effect</h2>



The results underscore the importance of considering the ocean-atmosphere coupling effect, which acts to buffer changes in storm intensity due to global warming.&nbsp;



The study revealed that large, slow-moving typhoons tend to cool the sea surface temperature around their centers, thereby limiting their intensity. Compact, fast-moving typhoons, such as Faxai, avoid this cooling effect, maintaining a constant heat source at their centers that can fuel their intensification under warmer conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-typhoon-intensity-forecasts-nbsp">Typhoon intensity forecasts&nbsp;</h2>



Building on these insights, the researchers developed a new model using a simple parameter called the non-dimensional storm speed (S0) to differentiate between typhoons likely to intensify under global warming and those more resilient to its effects.&nbsp;



This model, thanks to its high-resolution and the coupled regional atmosphere-ocean approach, could significantly enhance the accuracy of typhoon intensity projections under climate change scenarios, as well as improve current forecasting methods.



“Currently, climate change projection research on typhoon intensity is conducted using models with coarse horizontal resolution or atmosphere-only models, which have difficulty reproducing the intensity and structure of strong typhoons,” explained Kanada.&nbsp;



“This research using a high-resolution coupled regional atmosphere-ocean model can reproduce the intensity and structure of strong typhoons and the response of the ocean with high accuracy, so is expected to contribute not only to the quantitative projection of typhoon intensity under a warming climate, but also to the improvement of the accuracy of current typhoon intensity forecasts.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2023GL105659" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>. 



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Fast-moving tropical cyclones are becoming more powerful

Researchers at Nagoya University in Japan have investigated how global...

Orchid,Flower,In,Tropical,Garden.phalaenopsis,Growing,On,Tenerife,canary,Islands.orchids.floral,Background

Researchers have unveiled a fascinating connection between asparagus and vanilla orchids, very different plants in every way, highlighting the unexpected similarities in the composition of their cell walls.



This discovery, shared in a new study from the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a>, forms part of a larger endeavor that has culminated in the creation of a comprehensive "reference catalog" of plant cell wall compositions, covering 287 species across the plant kingdom. 



The research, led by botanist Louise Isager Ahl of the <a href="https://snm.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum of Denmark</a> and Professor Peter Ulvskov from the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, sheds new light on the intricate world of plant biology. 



The findings have profound implications for agriculture, environmental conservation, and our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fibonacci-spirals-an-unexpected-twist-in-plant-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant evolution</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-plant-cell-walls">Importance of plant cell walls</h2>



The focus of this research was the plant cell wall, a crucial structure that provides mechanical support and facilitates water transport within plants, much like skeletons do for humans.&nbsp;



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-true-survivors-flowering-plants-lived-through-the-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flowering plants</a> have succeeded in adapting to the most unwelcoming and harshest environments in the world, in part due to the construction of their cell walls. They provide the plants with both mechanical structure and ensure the internal transport of water. Plant cell walls are composed of many different carbohydrates, that each have a unique structure and function -- you can think of them like toy building blocks." said Isager Ahl.



"Although humans rely heavily on plants and their carbohydrates for food, building materials, clothing and medicine, our knowledge of their fine structure is still quite limited. We know that carbohydrates are some of the most complex chemical structures in nature, but how they are assembled, how they work and how they have evolved over the past several million years is still largely unknown."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-genetics-nbsp">The role of genetics&nbsp;</h2>



To investigate, the researchers analyzed leaf and stem tissues from 287 different plant species. The goal was to gain a better understanding of the relationship between the ultra-complex carbohydrates in plant cell walls and the plants' evolutionary trajectories, growth forms, and habitats.



Contrary to the researchers' initial hypothesis, which suggested that environmental factors might influence cell wall structure, the study revealed that genetic heritage plays a more significant role. 



"As an example, in a typical Danish beech forest, you will find beech trees, anemones, various grasses, and other plants. Since they share the same habitat, it would be easy to think that their construction is also similar," explained Isager Ahl.



"However, our analyses show that the carbohydrate compositions of their cell walls are vastly different. And when we compare carbohydrate compositions with the plants' family history, habitat and growth form, we can see that it is primarily their family history that determines their individual structures."



"The carbohydrate composition of a plant is thereby more closely related to where it is placed in a family tree than to its habitat and growth form. Here, heritage plays a more important role than environment," noted Professor Peter Ulvskov.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeted-breeding-programs-nbsp">Targeted breeding programs&nbsp;</h2>



This revelation has far-reaching implications, particularly in the realm of plant breeding. The comprehensive catalog of cell wall compositions developed by the team could serve as a vital resource for targeted breeding programs aimed at enhancing the quality and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-agave-and-bats-face-a-sustainability-crisis-in-mexico/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainability</a> of crops. 



"Even though the cell walls of plants are an important component in our food, animal feed, textiles and other materials, we have yet to target our breeding of cultivated plants to improve their cell wall properties," said Professor Ulvskov.



"For example, cell walls determine to a large extent the digestibility of plant material. Targeted breeding of cell walls could increase both the quality and sustainability of animal feed. Now there is a catalogue to start from."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-cell-walls-and-climate-resilience">Plant cell walls and climate resilience </h2>



According to the researchers, their dataset is ideal for research into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-cope-with-cold-mornings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate-resilient plants</a>.



"Our data can be used as an encyclopedia or reference database for researchers when they, for example, want to plan a study on a plant group they have not previously worked on," said Isager Ahl. 



"For example if you want to study how plant species in the rainforest, desert or on the heath react to environmental influences such as drought, high CO2 levels or floods - the dataset can be used as a benchmark."



This type of knowledge is increasingly relevant as climate change alters plant habitats.



"All of the climatic and environmental changes that we are now facing are challenging the planet's plants, and thus humans as well. Because we are deeply dependent on how plants function," said Professor Ulvskov.



"If we are going to develop more resilient plants, it is important that we understand the mechanisms by which they survive or succumb. Here, understanding their building blocks, in the form of cell walls and carbohydrates plays a key role."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/pce.14785" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant Cell &amp; Environment</a>.



-----



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-----

Asparagus and orchids share surprising similarities

Researchers have unveiled a fascinating connection between asparagus and vanilla...

Atomic,Structure.,Scientific,Breakthrough.,Modern,Scientific,Research,On,Nuclear,Fusion.

NASA's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/tdm/fission-surface-power/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fission Surface Power Project</a>, a nuclear fission reactor that generates electricity, has successfully completed its initial phase, marking a significant step towards powering future <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/fission-surface-power_moon_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon and Mars missions</a>.



This futuristic project aims to develop a compact nuclear fission reactor capable of generating power for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-spacesuits-will-keep-astronauts-clean-on-the-moon-and-beyond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a>, a critical resource for long-term space exploration.



In 2022, NASA awarded $5 million contracts to three commercial partners. 



Each partner was tasked with creating a comprehensive initial design, encompassing the reactor, power conversion, heat rejection, power management, distribution systems, cost estimates, and a development timeline. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nuclear-fission-reactor-vs-solar-power">Nuclear fission reactor vs. solar power</h2>



This initiative is crucial for establishing a sustainable human presence on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-spacecraft-captures-stunning-photo-of-earth-and-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> for at least a decade.



Trudy Kortes, the program director of Technology Demonstration Missions within NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate, emphasizes the importance of this endeavor. 



"A demonstration of a nuclear power source on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-plans-to-build-house-on-the-moon-by-2040/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> is required to show that it is a safe, clean, reliable option," Kortes stated. 



She highlighted the technical challenges posed by the lunar night and the necessity of a Sun-independent power source like this reactor for long-term exploration and scientific efforts on the Moon.



The limitations of solar power systems on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toyota-lunar-cruiser-could-drive-astronauts-across-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> are well-known, particularly in permanently shadowed regions and during the lengthy lunar nights, which last about 14-and-a-half Earth days. 



In contrast, a nuclear reactor could offer continuous power in these challenging conditions, potentially unlocking new scientific and exploration possibilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-project-requirements-and-flexibility">Project requirements and flexibility</h2>



NASA's approach to this project has been notably open and flexible, allowing commercial partners to employ creative solutions. 



“There was a healthy variety of approaches; they were all very unique from each other,” said Lindsay Kaldon, Fission Surface Power project manager at NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/glenn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glenn Research Center</a> in Cleveland. “We didn’t give them a lot of requirements on purpose because we wanted them to think outside the box.”



Despite this flexibility, NASA established critical specifications for the reactor: it must weigh under six metric tons, produce 40 kilowatts (kW) of electrical power -- enough for various lunar operations, and operate autonomously for a decade. 



To put this in perspective, 40 kW can power an average of 33 households in the U.S.



Safety, particularly regarding radiation dose and shielding, remains a top priority. Beyond these stipulations, the partners also explored remote activation and control of the reactor, fault identification, and various fuels and configurations. 



Collaborations between terrestrial nuclear companies and space experts led to a broad spectrum of innovative ideas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-towards-a-nuclear-fission-reactor">Next steps towards a nuclear fission reactor</h2>



The next step involves extending the Phase 1 contracts to refine these concepts before launching Phase 2. This phase will involve selecting a final reactor design for lunar demonstration. 



"We're gathering a wealth of information from our partners," Kaldon noted. "This will guide us in setting realistic, risk-averse requirements for Phase 2."



NASA plans to open solicitation for Phase 2 in 2025. The goal is to have a reactor ready for a lunar launch in the early 2030s. 



The reactor will undergo a one-year demonstration on the Moon, followed by nine operational years. If successful, this technology could be adapted for use on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-a-nuclear-powered-spacecraft-shorten-the-trip-to-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>.



Parallel to this, NASA has recently awarded contracts to Rolls Royce North American Technologies, Brayton Energy, and General Electric for developing Brayton power converters. 



These converters are essential for transforming the thermal power from nuclear fission into electricity. However, current models are inefficient, losing much heat. 



NASA's challenge to these companies is to enhance the efficiency of Brayton converters, a crucial step towards optimizing nuclear power usage in space.



This ambitious project represents a significant leap forward in space exploration. By harnessing nuclear power, NASA aims to overcome the challenges of sustaining human life in space, paving the way for prolonged lunar stays and, eventually, human missions to Mars.



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Nuclear fission reactor from NASA will provide electricity on the Moon and Mars

NASA's Fission Surface Power Project, a nuclear fission reactor that...

In the realm of cosmic discoveries, a recent addition stands out for its unique and elusive nature. The "Nube" galaxy, a name charmingly suggested by a five-year-old, has captured the attention of astronomers for its almost ghostly presence in the universe. 



This discovery, led by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias <a href="https://www.iac.es/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(IAC</a>) in collaboration with the University of La Laguna (<a href="https://www.ull.es/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ULL</a>) and other institutions, marks a significant leap in our understanding of the cosmos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-whisper-of-the-nube-galaxy">Cosmic whisper of the Nube galaxy</h2>



Nube, Spanish for "Cloud," is an apt descriptor for this enigmatic <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/a-ghostly-assemblage-of-stars-make-up-the-galaxy-eso-300-16/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dwarf galaxy</a>. Its surface brightness is so faint that it evaded detection in previous sky surveys. 



The galaxy's stars are dispersed across a vast area, making Nube appear as a mere wisp in the cosmic landscape.



What sets Nube apart are its extraordinary properties. This galaxy is ten times fainter and more extended than other known dwarf galaxies with a comparable number of stars.



To put it in perspective, Nube is a third of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>'s size but has a mass akin to the Small Magellanic Cloud.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nube-s-mysteries-defying-astronomical-norms">Nube's mysteries: Defying astronomical norms</h2>



Such extreme characteristics baffle astronomers, as Mireia Montes, the first author of the article and a researcher at the IAC and the ULL, admits. 



"With our present knowledge, we do not understand how a galaxy with such extreme characteristics can exist," said Montes.



The discovery of Nube was serendipitous. Ignacio Trujillo, the second author, was analyzing images from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (<a href="https://www.sdss.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SDSS</a>) when he noticed an intriguing faint patch. 



This led to a focused study using ultra-deep multicolor images from the Gran Telescopio Canarias (<a href="https://www.gtc.iac.es/gtc/gtc.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GTC</a>), confirming that the patch was not an error but an extremely diffuse object.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bringing-the-nube-galaxy-into-focus">Bringing the Nube galaxy into focus</h2>



Determining Nube's exact distance has been challenging due to its faintness. Observations from the Green Bank Telescope (GBT) in the United States place Nube approximately 300 million light years away. 



Upcoming observations with the Very Large Array (VLA) radio telescope and the optical William Herschel Telescope (<a href="https://www.ing.iac.es/Astronomy/telescopes/wht/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHT</a>) at the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, La Palma, are anticipated to refine this estimate. 



Trujillo notes, "If the galaxy turns out to be nearer, it will still be a very strange object and offer major challenges to astrophysics."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rewriting-the-rules-of-the-cosmos">Rewriting the rules of the cosmos</h2>



Nube defies the general rule of galaxies having a higher density of stars in their inner regions. 



Montes explains that in Nube, "the density of stars varies very little throughout the object, which is why it is so faint, and we have not been able to observe it well until we had the ultra-deep images from the GTC."



The galaxy's peculiar nature has left astronomers puzzled. Current cosmological simulations, based on the cold dark matter model, fail to replicate Nube's extreme characteristics. 



This discrepancy suggests that there might be fundamental aspects of the universe that we have yet to understand. 



Montes expresses the intriguing possibility that, "We are left without a viable explanation within the currently accepted cosmological model, that of cold <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter</a>."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nube-s-implications-and-future-research">Nube's implications and future research</h2>



The study of Nube could potentially revolutionize our understanding of the universe. Trujillo speculates on an exciting hypothesis: the unusual properties of Nube could indicate that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter</a> particles have an extremely small mass. 



This could align the worlds of quantum physics with cosmic phenomena, potentially offering a new window into the understanding of the universe. 



Trujillo concludes, "If this hypothesis is confirmed, it would be one of the most beautiful demonstrations of nature, unifying the world of the smallest with that of the largest."



In summary, the discovery of the Nube galaxy opens a new chapter in astronomy, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity to deepen our cosmic knowledge. 



Its unique properties are unique curiosity that could be key to unlocking new cosmic mysteries, possibly reshaping our understanding of the universe itself.



The full study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/01/aa47667-23/aa47667-23.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics</a>.



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Galaxy named "Nube" is almost invisible, leaving astronomers baffled

In the realm of cosmic discoveries, a recent addition stands...

Glacier,Stream,In,Greenland,-,East,Greenland,Has,Many,Glaciers

Researchers made a surprising discovery regarding Greenland's impact on the global methane budget, challenging the long-held notion of the Arctic as a potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-seas-release-more-methane-from-wetlands-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> bomb due to climate change. 



The study from the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a>, conducted by the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, reveals that Greenland's dry landscapes absorb more methane than its wet areas emit, making it a net methane sink rather than a source.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncovering-the-methane-dynamics-of-greenland">Uncovering the methane dynamics of Greenland</h2>



Greenland's unique position in the methane cycle comes from its dry, ice-free landscapes, which, since 2000, have been absorbing over 65,000 tons of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> annually, in stark contrast to the 9,000 tons released by its wet areas. 



This discovery is attributed to the island's sparse dry landscapes and relatively recent ice-free status post the last ice age, which left it with minimal carbon deposits that could turn into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-finalizes-ambitious-rule-to-slash-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane emissions</a>.



"This is partly due to Greenland’s widespread dry landscapes, where methane from the atmosphere is consumed into the upper layers of soil, and partly because the ice-free parts of Greenland have only been without ice since the last ice age, meaning that they never stored much carbon, which could lead to large methane emissions, as can be measured elsewhere in the Arctic," says Professor Bo Elberling, who led the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outsized-role-played-by-microbes">Outsized role played by microbes</h2>



The key players in this process are specialized microorganisms residing in the upper soil layers of Arctic terrains. 



These microbes convert atmospheric methane into carbon dioxide -- a greenhouse gas with a significantly lesser warming effect -- thereby contributing positively to climate dynamics. 



This microbial action not only highlights the crucial role of biological factors in the methane cycle but also underlines the importance of soil conditions such as nutrient availability, acidity, and the presence of copper for optimal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-massive-amounts-of-methane-gas-spews-from-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> uptake.



First author Ludovica D'Imperio emphasizes the study's contribution to understanding the delicate balance of methane emissions and absorptions in polar regions. 



"Our work also sheds light on the conditions that, in addition to the climate, are crucial for methane uptake in Greenland. Based on our statistical model, we can conclude that it depends on the presence of the right microorganisms, soil acidity and copper -- knowledge that we were previously uncertain about," D'Imperio explains.



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



The team's findings point to a potential increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-methane-leaks-discovered-in-the-baltic-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> uptake as Greenland's climate continues to evolve, offering a silver lining amidst the broader challenges of global climate change.



However, the researchers caution against overestimating Greenland's role in the global methane budget. 



"Our research and that of others in the field helps to increase our understanding of the complex processes that are critical for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-fire-ice-unleashes-deep-methane-from-beneath-the-seafloor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global methane</a> budget," Elberling says. 



"The budgets will be used both now and in the future to develop models that can provide a more accurate picture of the significance of global methane uptake," he explained further.



Despite its contribution to reducing atmospheric methane, Greenland's impact is relatively small compared to the vast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-lakes-produce-less-methane-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane sources</a> in other parts of the Arctic and globally, particularly in Siberian wetlands.



"We had just managed to demonstrate that methane uptake occurs in dry Siberian soils as well, but more studies will be needed in Siberia to provide a methane budget similar to what we now have for Greenland," says Elberling.



"Still, we have advanced considerably with similar studies in cold regions in Tibet, for example, where measurements indicate a similar conclusion as for Greenland. But the work has only just begun to understand the variation in this uptake of methane and its significance for the global methane budget," Elberling concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-greenland-s-methane-discovery">Implications of Greenland's methane discovery</h2>



The significance of these findings extends beyond Greenland, prompting further research into similar phenomena in other cold regions like Tibet. 



Such studies are vital for developing accurate models to predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-methane-detection-method-will-expose-super-emitters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global methane</a> dynamics, a crucial factor in climate change mitigation strategies.



In summary, while yielded surprising insights into Greenland's unexpected role in mitigating methane emissions, it also underscores the ongoing need to reduce human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. 



By providing a more nuanced understanding of natural methane budgets, research such as this enhances our ability to model and predict the complex processes affecting the global climate system, reaffirming the importance of continuous scientific inquiry into Earth's changing environment.



The research is published in the scientific journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-023-01143-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Greenland absorbs more methane than it emits, surprising scientists

Researchers made a surprising discovery regarding Greenland's impact on the...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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

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







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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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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

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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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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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

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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

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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?

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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

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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

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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"

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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"

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