Western wildfires send smoke across the country, so it sounds obvious that they always make air quality worse everywhere. New research shows that is not the whole story.



During severe fire seasons in the West, the intense heat from those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-thinning-cuts-wildfire-severity-and-saves-carbon/">fires</a> can change weather patterns and rainfall in ways that actually lower fine particle pollution in the eastern United States. That result surprised even seasoned atmospheric scientists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfire-heat-and-air-quality">Wildfire heat and air quality </h2>



Qihan Ma of <a href="https://www.tsinghua.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tsinghua University</a> and colleagues analyzed observations and climate simulations that account for the daily heat released by fires. The researchers found that strong fire heat can reduce fine particle levels in the East during the fire season.



Scientists track fine particle pollution called PM2.5, which refers to particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers across. PM2.5 gets deep into the lungs and bloodstream, and its <a href="https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/health-and-environmental-effects-particulate-matter-pm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects</a> include higher risks of heart and lung disease and premature death.



The results did not just point to smoke. The team showed how fire-driven <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wildfire-exposure-rises-worldwide-despite-less-land-burning/">heat</a> boosts convection, the upward movement of warm air. This suppresses eastward smoke transport and increases rain that washes particles out of the air, a process called wet deposition. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-quality-in-the-east-and-west">Air quality in the East and West</h2>



Observations from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-seasons-are-now-overlapping-worldwide/">air</a> monitors revealed a dipole pattern during extreme western fire events, with PM2.5 rising in the West and falling in the East by a comparable amount. 



Model simulations for the full fire season showed similar contrasts of about 1.71 micrograms per cubic meter in the West and minus 1.21 micrograms per cubic meter in the East.



Satellite analysts also mapped smoke plumes over long distances during these events. NOAA confirmed that smoke often spread across parts of the East, yet many eastern monitors still recorded lower PM2.5.



To represent fire inputs day by day, the researchers used the <a href="https://www.globalfiredata.org/data.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GFED4.1s</a> dataset, which estimates burned area, emissions, and heat release. The data helped quantify how much energy the fires pumped into the atmosphere.



The air quality and weather responses were simulated with the Community Earth System Model (<a href="https://www.cesm.ucar.edu/models" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CESM</a>). To separate the drivers, the team ran simulations with smoke alone, heat alone, and with both.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-shift-weather-across-the-country">Wildfires shift weather across the country</h2>



Heat from large western fires increased convective available potential energy (CAPE) over the West, which favors stronger thunderstorms. It also nudged broader circulation patterns that reshaped wind and moisture across the country.



As the central United States dried and warmed near the surface, low level pressure dropped and winds shifted toward anomalous easterlies over the eastern half of the country.



The East grew more humid and unstable, and convective rain increased, which removed more particles from the air. These heat-driven shifts can modulate long range smoke impacts.



“Heat produced by wildfires, a commonly neglected effect, can reduce fine particle concentrations in the eastern United States,” wrote Ma.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-health-and-policy">Lessons for health and policy</h2>



The results do not suggest that wildfires are harmless. The West still sees higher PM2.5 during fire season, and people there bear the brunt of smoke exposure and related health burdens.



The research shows that ignoring fire heat in national assessments can skew results. The authors report that leaving heat out of models overestimates health and economic losses by about 1,200 premature deaths and 3.3 billion dollars nationwide for the fire season. 



Those numbers are driven by the East’s large population and the modeled reductions in PM2.5 when heat effects are included.



Public health guidance should still emphasize reducing exposure wherever smoke raises risk. Strategies include wearing masks during high pollution days and targeted help for sensitive groups like children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with heart or lung disease.



For modeling and policy, the message is straightforward. Future national air quality planning and wildfire risk assessments need to incorporate fire heat, not just smoke emissions, to capture regional differences accurately.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-and-open-questions">Limitations and open questions</h2>



The researchers emphasize that no model is perfect. In global models with coarse grids, convection is parameterized, meaning certain local storm processes are simplified.



The team validated a subset of cases with a superparameterized model that more explicitly resolves clouds. The results showed the same overall pattern, though the heat effects were weaker in magnitude - providing a useful constraint for future research.



Better heat estimates at subdaily timescales will also help. Averaging heat over a day can smooth out fire bursts that may drive the strongest convective responses.



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



People in the West should continue to prepare for smoke season and protect their lungs, because local pollution still rises during major fires. 



Communities in the East should not assume they are safe, since many days still exceed health guidelines and smoke episodes remain disruptive.



The broader lesson is about getting the physics right. Accounting for heat shows how the same fires can worsen air in one region and temporarily ease it in another, and that nuance matters for equitable investments in health and resilience.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ads1957" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Wildfires in the West can actually improve air quality in the East

Western wildfires send smoke across the country, so it sounds obvious that they always make air quality worse everywhere. New research shows that is not the whole story. During severe fire seasons in the West, the intense heat from those fires can change weather patterns and rainfall in ways that actually lower fine particle pollution in the eastern United States. That result surprised even seasoned atmospheric scientists. Wildfire heat and air quality Qihan Ma of Tsinghua University and colleagues analyzed observations and climate simulations that account for...

Imagine having a crystal ball that could predict the next volcanic eruption. For millions of people living near active volcanoes, such a tool would be invaluable. 



Interestingly, some crystals formed deep within the Earth can indeed help forecast volcanic activity. These crystals, which are created as molten rock travels from beneath the Earth's surface, hold vital clues about past eruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crystals-hold-a-record-of-eruptions-nbsp">Crystals hold a record of eruptions&nbsp;</h2>



By employing advanced scientific methods, researchers can extract a hidden record from these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-turning-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crystals</a>, uncovering the reasons, locations, and timings of previous eruptions. This historical information can help interpret early signs of volcanic unrest, such as earthquakes, which often signal magma moving toward the surface.&nbsp;



In a new column in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01509-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>, Teresa Ubide, a geoscientist at the <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Queensland</a>, discusses how we are getting closer to having crystal balls - at least for volcanoes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crystals-formed-by-cooling-magma">Crystals formed by cooling magma</h2>



When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-magma-traced-to-melting-in-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a>, the extremely hot molten rock that powers eruptions, forms tens of kilometers below Earth's surface in the mantle, it begins a complex journey upward.&nbsp;



During this trip, magma may pause in reservoirs and travel through a winding path before eventually erupting. As magma ascends, it cools, forming small crystals that can be carried to the surface during eruptions.



Once magma reaches the surface, it can either flow as lava or explode into fragmented particles known as pyroclasts. As these materials cool, they solidify into volcanic rocks, which preserve the crystals formed deep within the Earth. These crystals serve as “crystal balls,” preserving the memory of everything they experienced inside the volcano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-appearance-of-volcanic-crystals">Distinct appearance of volcanic crystals</h2>



The appearance of these crystals depends on their mineral composition. For instance, the green olivine found in Hawaiian lavas and the white plagioclase crystals in the Tweed volcano's lavas on the Queensland-New South Wales border are distinct examples.&nbsp;



However, one of the most critical minerals for studying volcanoes is clinopyroxene. This mineral produces shiny black crystals that hold essential information about the inner workings of volcanoes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-changes-within-the-crystals-nbsp">Chemical changes within the crystals&nbsp;</h2>



Clinopyroxene crystals may be as tiny as a grain of sand, but under a microscope, they reveal extraordinary details about volcanic activity. They grow in concentric zones, similar to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-largest-ever-solar-storm-discovered-through-tree-rings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree rings</a>, with each zone documenting changes in the magma environment within the volcano.&nbsp;



The outermost growth zone is particularly important, as it can indicate if an eruption was triggered by fresh magma rising from deep within the Earth.&nbsp;



By analyzing the chemical changes within these crystals, scientists can estimate how long it took for magma to reach the surface - information that could help predict future eruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indications-of-potential-volcanic-eruptions">Indications of potential volcanic eruptions</h2>



These crystals sometimes grow with different compositions in various directions, a phenomenon called sector zoning, which resembles an hourglass inside the crystal.&nbsp;



Sector zoning provides further clues, suggesting that the magma underwent complex processes such as mixing with other magma, releasing gas, or rising quickly before an eruption.&nbsp;



By identifying these processes in the crystals, volcanologists can watch for similar signs at the surface, offering early indications of potential volcanic activity.



It’s also critical to identify where within the volcano these eruption triggers occur. This information can help determine if certain depths, where earthquakes or ground deformations occur, are particularly significant for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicting an eruption</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pressure-conditions-during-crystal-formation-nbsp">Pressure conditions during crystal formation&nbsp;</h2>



The chemical makeup of clinopyroxene crystals also provides clues about the pressure conditions during their formation, which can be translated into the depth of magma storage below the surface.&nbsp;



Analyzing these chemical variations requires cutting-edge laboratory techniques, such as using lasers the width of a human hair or focusing intense synchrotron light from particle accelerators like the one in Melbourne, Australia.&nbsp;



These tools enable scientists to extract detailed information about the magma’s journey from the microscopic structures of the crystals.



Next time you hike near a volcano, whether it's in Hawai'i, Iceland, or the Glass House Mountains in Australia, look closely at the rocks for colorful specks. These tiny crystals are the keys to unlocking the history of the volcano - and they might also offer insights into its future.



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Crystals can help predict volcanic eruptions

Imagine having a crystal ball that could predict the next...

The world is racing against time, rapidly devouring resources that sustain life, and if we continue on our current trajectory, even basic living standards might become a luxury. But, there's hope for the Earth and its resources. 



A recent report suggests that we have the power to change the tide, provided we transform our economic systems and technologies, and adopt a more equitable resource management approach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-light-for-cities-and-businesses">Green light for cities and businesses</h2>



The research, conducted by an international team of scientists including those from The Australian National University (<a href="https://www.anu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANU</a>), makes a compelling case for cities and businesses to step up. 



The report, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, urges them to adopt the mantle of “stewards” of Earth’s critical resources. 



By demonstrating how to reduce their environmental impact, cities and businesses could play a vital role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-day-2024-the-tide-may-finally-be-turning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protecting the planet</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-earth-s-resources">Protecting Earth's resources</h2>



The research, a product of the Earth Commission's first phase, involved more than 40 researchers from various disciplines worldwide. 



<a href="https://earthcommission.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Earth Commission</a>, founded in 2019, includes 18 globally respected scholars who provide interdisciplinary insights.



The report leans heavily on the findings of the Safe and Just Earth System Boundaries report published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06083-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> last year. 



This report unveiled a disturbing fact -- humanity has overstepped most of the crucial boundaries within which people and the planet can flourish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-driving-change-in-earth-s-resources">Driving change in Earth's resources</h2>



Distinguished Professor Xuemei Bai from ANU, one of the three lead authors who led the working group on Translation, emphasized the pivotal role of companies and cities. 



According to her, these entities possess the necessary resources to effect sweeping changes and significantly lessen the strains on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-2024-a-call-for-land-restoration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our planet</a>.



"Companies and cities have a huge potential to make a difference, especially if they work towards the same goal, which is to ensure the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-records-shatter-2024-set-to-be-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a> can provide for everyone long-term," Professor Bai points out. 



She added that they are more adaptable than states and can set science-based goals that align with the research findings.



Her colleague, Professor Stuart Bunn from <a href="https://www.griffith.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Griffith University</a>, echoed her sentiments. He co-led a working group focusing on freshwater and nutrient pollution boundaries, another critical aspect of Earth's sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenge-of-our-lifetime">Challenge of our lifetime</h2>



The research confirmed that our planet's resilience is under immense strain. However, it emphasized that it's still possible for humans to avoid the adverse effects of Earth's system change if we act urgently.



The way forward? Reducing inequalities in accessing and using critical resources like freshwater and nutrients. 



Alongside this, there needs to be fair sharing of responsibilities such as carbon emission reduction, combined with an economic and technological overhaul.



Without urgent transformations, the report warns that by 2050, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-just-experienced-its-hottest-day-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's climate</a> could deteriorate so much that there would be no "safe and just space" left.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-and-earth-s-resources">Sustainability and Earth's resources</h2>



Innovation stands as a cornerstone in the pursuit of sustainability, offering solutions that can bridge the gap between consumption and conservation. 



By harnessing advancements in technology, such as renewable energy, smart agriculture, and sustainable manufacturing practices, we can significantly reduce our ecological footprint. 



Universities, research institutions, and private companies are increasingly collaborating to develop cutting-edge solutions that not only address immediate environmental concerns but also create systems that can adapt to future challenges. 



This interconnected web of innovation empowers communities and industries to meet their needs while safeguarding our planet's resources for generations to come.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-to-a-safe-and-just-space">Path to a "safe and just space"</h2>



To prevent this potential catastrophe, the researchers recommend a series of critical actions to save the Earth's resources. 



Primarily, policymakers, businesses, civil society, and communities need to collaborate to transform our economic system with policies and funding mechanisms that address inequality while reducing pressure on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-days-getting-longer-rotation-slows-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature and climate</a>.



Secondly, efficient and effective management, sharing, and usage of resources at all societal levels are fundamental. 



This includes tackling excessive consumption in some communities, which denies access to vital resources for the most needy.



Thirdly, investing in sustainable and affordable technologies that allow us to reduce resource usage is paramount in reopening the "safe and just space."



Here's the bottom line: sure, we're in deep water, but we're not drowning yet. This report is a lifeline, a blueprint for change, and a call to action. 



As daunting as the challenge might seem, we have the resources, the knowledge, and yes, the responsibility, to turn things around.



The report is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(24)00042-1/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet Planetary Health</a>.



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How cities and businesses can help save Earth and its resources

The world is racing against time, rapidly devouring resources that...

Air samples collected at altitudes up to 2,000 miles above Japan held an astonishing variety of living microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, many of which are toxic to humans.



Not just the homegrown ones either. Some of these microbial stowaways traveled over 1,000 miles with the help of aerosols, originating from regions lush with fertilizers and pesticides.



This has launched the scientific world into a wave of questions about the journey of human, animal, and plant pathogens across vast geographical terrains, invisible to the naked eye. 



Leading this microbial exploration was the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (<a href="https://www.isglobal.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISGlobal</a>) with support from the Daniel Bravo Andreu Private Foundation (<a href="https://www.fundaciodanielbravo.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FPDBA</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-travel-in-the-air">Microbes travel in the air</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-laid-the-foundation-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pathogens</a> hitching a ride on the wind isn’t unheard of. But the diversity of microbes that can survive at high altitudes, where conditions could give even an Everest mountaineer pause, is a fresh revelation.



“We know that above a certain point in the troposphere (called the planetary boundary layer), certain materials can be transported over long distances because the air in that region is isolated from the surface and there is less friction. But we did not suspect that viable microorganisms could be there also,” says&nbsp;Xavier Rodó, ICREA researcher at ISGlobal.



Rodó and his team carried out ten tropospheric flights to examine microbial diversity at high altitudes -- a significant jump from studies usually executed just a few meters above the ground or the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-microbial-travel-path">Tracing the microbial travel path</h2>



Rodó and his international team boarded a Cessna aircraft and conducted air surveys above Japan, tracing wind currents from mainland Asia. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-deadly-microbes-travel-around-the-world-so-quickly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transcontinental airways</a>, known as tropospheric bridges, connect air from distant parts of the world.



For context, think about air that lifts in mainland China and then descends over Tokyo, courtesy of typical winter weather conditions. 



A total of 22 aerosol filter samples were gathered during two periods (in February and April 2014), methodically analyzed for their chemical and biological composition.



Sequencing DNA from the samples, the team identified over 266 fungal and 305 bacterial genera associated with the aerosols. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-microbes-in-the-air">Types of microbes in the air</h2>



This microbial soup included potential pathogens for humans, animals, and plants -- familiar names like Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Haemophillus parainfluenzae, and several Staphylococcus species were among the bacterial mix.



The fungal factions included genera like Candida and Cladosporium, to name a couple.



“Surprisingly, the Micrococcus luteus strain isolated was resistant to multiple drugs, including carbapenems, glycopeptides, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole," says Sofya Podzniakova, co-first author of the study.



"Our findings suggest that antimicrobial resistance could spread over long distances via this previously unrecognized route", 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropospheric-travel-tunnel-of-air-microbes">Tropospheric travel tunnel of air microbes</h2>



If you're curious about the origin of these airborne pathogens, the answer could be right underneath our noses -- or rather, our feet.



The presence of elements such as zinc sulfate and potassium, usually found in fertilizers and pesticides, implies an agricultural source. A scenario quite consistent with the extensively farmed croplands in northeast China.



The high-altitude and ground samples from the days examined showed a striking similarity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-microbes-can-tell-us-about-global-changes-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial diversity</a>. A consequence of air descending from altitudes to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-activities-underground-revealed-by-new-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ground</a>, perhaps? 



The particle transport models simulated by Roger Curcoll, currently a researcher at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya -- BarcelonaTech (<a href="https://www.upc.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UPC</a>), would certainly support this theory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-in-microbe-transport-study">New chapter in microbe transport study</h2>



The implications of this study are profoundly impactful. “Our findings uncover a rich and unprecedented diversity of microbes that are dispersed by wind currents thousands of kilometers away from their sources by intense tunnels of wind that form high in the troposphere,” Rodó emphasized.



“They represent a paradigm shift in our understanding of how human health can be affected by pathogens thriving in the environment, particularly in the air."



Though there's no direct trace yet linking the presence of known human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-pandemic-looms-as-pathogens-move-from-wild-plants-to-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogens</a> in aerosols and health effects, the study affirms the pressing need for further exploration of air microbes and microbial pathogens' long-distance travel.



So, the next time you feel the wind against your face, remember, it has stories to tell -- tales of microbial hitchhikers scaling the heights of the troposphere and crossing continents. Globe-trotting pathogens show us how interconnected our world truly is, even in ways we can't see.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2404191121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Toxic microbes can travel thousands of miles through the air

Air samples collected at altitudes up to 2,000 miles above...

Earth's evolution has been shaped by a series of severe environmental crises that occurred millions of years ago, profoundly impacting both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. 



These events triggered mass extinctions, disrupted chemical cycles, and paved the way for new forms of life to emerge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-evolution-and-catastrophes">Earth's evolution and catastrophes</h2>



New research has revealed that a catastrophic "tag-team" between continents and oceans devastated marine life, depleted oxygen levels, and dramatically altered the course of evolution on our planet. The events left a lasting legacy on Earth's biodiversity.



The study was led by a team of scientists from the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a>. The findings uncover new explanations for oceanic anoxic events -- periods when the seas were critically depleted of dissolved oxygen -- occurring between 185 and 85 million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-oxygen-depletion-in-the-mesozoic-era">Ocean oxygen depletion in the Mesozoic era</h2>



The focus of the research was on several significant oceanic anoxic events, spanning from 185 to 85 million years ago, during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-were-not-the-only-animals-that-grew-fast-during-the-mesozoic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesozoic</a> era. 



Study lead author Professor Tom Gernon of the University of Southampton described these events as the planet's “reset button.” 



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-caused-marine-mass-extinctions-millions-of-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oceanic anoxic events</a> were like hitting the reset button on the planet’s ecosystems. The challenge was understanding which geological forces hit the button," said Professor Gernon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakup-of-gondwana">Breakup of Gondwana</h2>



Through complex statistical analyses and advanced computer modeling, the team explored how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/supercontinents-101-pannotia-gondwana-and-pangea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breakup of Gondwana</a>, a supercontinent once inhabited by dinosaurs, could have affected chemical cycles in the ocean.



“The Mesozoic era witnessed the breakup of this landmass, in turn bringing intense volcanic activity worldwide,” noted Professor Gernon.



As tectonic plates shifted and new seafloors formed, large amounts of phosphorus were released into the oceans from volcanic rocks, which acted as a natural fertilizer supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-impacting-marine-life-more-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a> growth.



"We show that enhanced weathering of mafic lithologies during continental breakup and nascent seafloor spreading can plausibly drive a succession of anoxic events," wrote the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-profound-impacts-on-marine-ecosystems">Profound impacts on marine ecosystems </h2>



Professor Benjamin Mills, an Earth system evolution specialist at the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a>, elaborated on the consequences of these fertilization episodes.



“The increase in biological activity led to huge amounts of organic matter sinking to the ocean floor, where it consumed large quantities of oxygen," said Professor Mills. This process created marine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/excess-nutrients-are-creating-ocean-dead-zones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dead zones</a> where most marine life perished.



“These anoxic events typically lasted around one to two million years and had profound impacts on marine ecosystems. The rocks rich in organic matter that accumulated during these events are by far the largest source of commercial oil and gas reserves globally," Mills concluded.



The researchers emphasized that today’s human activities, such as pollution, deforestation, and the overuse of fertilizers in agriculture, are reducing mean oceanic oxygen levels by about two percent. 



The decline is accelerating the expansion of anoxic water masses, creating larger dead zones in the oceans where marine life struggles to survive. This further threatens global biodiversity and the stability of marine ecosystems.



“Studying geological events offers valuable insights that can help us grasp how the Earth may respond to future climatic and environmental stresses,” said Professor Gernon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-earth-s-interior-to-its-exterior">Linking Earth's interior to its exterior</h2>



The study highlights the often underestimated connection between Earth's interior and surface environments, showing how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-lost-mega-plate-pontus-resurfaces-after-160-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tectonic activity</a> deep within the planet can dramatically influence surface conditions.



These interactions drive processes such as volcanic eruptions, nutrient cycles, and shifts in ocean chemistry, all of which play a crucial role in shaping ecosystems and evolutionary pathways over millions of years.



"It’s remarkable how a chain of events within the Earth can impact the surface, often with devastating effects. Tearing continents apart can have profound repercussions for the course of evolution," said Professor Gernon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-earth-s-evolution">Lessons from Earth's evolution</h2>



The study not only illuminates key moments in Earth's evolution but also offers valuable perspectives on current environmental issues.



By analyzing the geological and biological processes that triggered ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammals-that-survive-mass-extinctions-arent-always-boring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mass extinctions</a>, researchers can draw parallels with modern climate challenges. 



This understanding could be instrumental in developing strategies to address the ongoing impacts of climate change and the degradation of marine ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01496-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Cataclysmic events caused mass extinctions during Earth's early evolution

Earth's evolution has been shaped by a series of severe...

The world is constantly facing the impacts of climate change. PREFIRE, a new NASA mission, advances our understanding of polar heat emissions by studying far-infrared radiation (FIR) in Earth's heating and cooling dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-polar-heat-emissions">Tracking polar heat emissions</h2>



The <a href="https://prefire.ssec.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-Infrared Experiment</a> (PREFIRE) is a key NASA mission aimed at deepening our understanding of how polar regions radiate heat into space. 



By studying the far-infrared radiation emitted by the Arctic and Antarctica, PREFIRE is providing critical data that will improve our ability to predict how climate change impacts Earth's ice, oceans, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-influences-us-weather-patterns-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a>.&nbsp;



Launched with two CubeSats in late May and early June, this mission has already begun transmitting valuable insights that will help scientists better comprehend the dynamics of heat exchange in these regions.



The mission’s primary objective is to map the far-infrared radiation -- wavelengths exceeding 15 micrometers -- emitted by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-polar-regions-changing-fundamental-alarming-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar regions</a>. 



Understanding how atmospheric elements, like clouds and water vapor, trap this heat close to Earth's surface is essential to grasp the full scope of the greenhouse effect, where gases such as carbon dioxide and methane act as heat insulators, amplifying global warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-knowledge-gaps-with-prefire">Bridging knowledge gaps with PREFIRE</h2>



"We are constantly looking for new ways to observe the planet and fill in critical gaps in our knowledge. With CubeSats like PREFIRE, we are doing both," said Karen St. Germain, director of the Earth Science Division at NASA Headquarters.&nbsp;



PREFIRE is an exciting partnership between <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, universities, and various industries, showcasing what can be achieved when talented individuals collaborate. 



The mission focuses on how the tropics absorb substantial solar energy, emphasizing the beauty and power of our planet.



This heat is then transported towards the Arctic and Antarctica, regions that receive less sunlight, by weather and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-ocean-currents-slowing-as-water-temperature-rises/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean currents</a>.&nbsp;



Yet, these Polar Regions, with their unique environments of ice, snow and clouds, emit a substantial amount of this heat back into space, predominantly in the form of far-infrared radiation.&nbsp;



This cyclic process had never been systematically studied -- until PREFIRE.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revealing-polar-heat-emissions">Revealing polar heat emissions</h2>



"It's so exciting to see the data coming in," said Tristan L’Ecuyer, PREFIRE’s principal investigator and a climate scientist at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin, Madison</a>.&nbsp;



The visualization of PREFIRE data shows varying intensities of radiation emitted from Earth at numerous wavelengths, including the far-infrared.&nbsp;



For the first time, we are witnessing the full energy spectrum that Earth radiates into space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prefire-in-action-a-closer-look">PREFIRE in action: a closer look</h2>



The two PREFIRE CubeSats are in asynchronous, near-polar orbits, passing over the same polar spots within hours of each other.&nbsp;



This enables the collection of the same type of data, providing a time series that facilitates the study of relatively short-lived phenomena like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-new-tipping-point-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet melting</a> or cloud formation and how they affect far-infrared emissions over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prefire-s-potential-impact">PREFIRE’s potential impact</h2>



As PREFIRE continues to send back critical data, the mission's long-term implications extend far beyond understanding polar heat emissions.&nbsp;



The insights gathered from this mission could help refine climate models, leading to more accurate predictions of global temperature changes, sea-level rise, and extreme weather patterns.&nbsp;



This information is crucial for policymakers and environmental organizations working to develop adaptive strategies in the face of a rapidly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changing climate</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-space-based-climate-research">Future of space-based climate research</h2>



Beyond the immediate scientific advancements, PREFIRE also represents a shift in how space-based climate research is conducted.&nbsp;



By using small, cost-effective CubeSats, NASA is pioneering a new era of efficient and targeted missions that can deliver impactful data without the need for large, expensive satellites.&nbsp;



This approach could pave the way for more agile, frequent launches to monitor other critical climate variables, enhancing our ability to respond swiftly to environmental challenges.



Ultimately, PREFIRE is not just about solving the mysteries of polar heat dynamics but also about equipping humanity with the tools and knowledge needed to mitigate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-polar-regions-changing-fundamental-alarming-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects of climate change</a> for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-driving-force-behind-prefire">Driving force behind PREFIRE</h2>



The PREFIRE mission was jointly developed by NASA and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.&nbsp;



A division of Caltech in Pasadena, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory manages the mission, with the CubeSats built and operated by Blue Canyon Technologies.&nbsp;



The University of Wisconsin-Madison plays a crucial role in processing and analyzing the data collected by the instruments.



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NASA's PREFIRE satellites monitor polar heat emissions from space

The world is constantly facing the impacts of climate change....

Desert regions may seem synonymous with drought - where dry, parched landscapes dominate the narrative of environmental challenges. However, new research reveals that these arid areas face a far more unpredictable and devastating threat from flooding.



While drought has long been considered the primary concern in deserts, the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events are proving to be equally, if not more, destructive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desertification-and-catastrophic-flooding">Desertification and catastrophic flooding</h2>



A new study from the <a href="https://viterbischool.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Viterbi School of Engineering</a> and the Institute de Physique du Globe de Paris at the <a href="https://u-paris.fr/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Paris Cité</a> has uncovered a worrying trend. The experts found that desertification is escalating the severity of flood impacts on port cities in the Middle East and North Africa.



The research was focused on the deadly 2023 floods in Derna, Libya, which claimed more than 11,300 lives. The experts noted that soil erosion, intensified by desertification, played a significant role in the catastrophe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drought-and-intense-rainfall-can-turn-deadly">Drought and intense rainfall can turn deadly </h2>



Study co-author Essam Heggy is a research scientist at the USC Microwave Systems, Sensors, and Imaging Lab (MiXIL). He pointed out that these increasingly arid conditions, interrupted by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-floods-what-turns-a-rainstorm-into-a-catastrophe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intense rainstorms</a>, are generating lethal mudflows that the region's aging dams struggle to control.



"Together, these two extreme conditions - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-crisis-un-warns-of-unprecedented-emergency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> and intense rainfall - are enhancing soil erosion, creating deadly floods," said Heggy. "The evidence is clear in our paper, 'Assessing flash flood erosion following <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/catastrophic-flooding-has-killed-up-to-20000-people-in-derna-libya/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Storm Daniel in Libya</a>.'"



In autumn 2023, Storm Daniel (also known as "Medicane Daniel") struck Libya's eastern coast, resulting in unprecedented flash floods. Researchers estimate this was Africa’s deadliest flood in over a century. Yale Climate Connections noted that such floods have not been observed in over 100 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangerous-combination-of-desert-conditions">Dangerous combination of desert conditions</h2>



The researchers noted that a mix of factors contributed to this devastating flood: unusually high rainfall, the collapse of two dams, and the failure of the region’s water infrastructure.



Jonathan Normand is a visiting graduate student at the USC AWARE Center and first author of the study. 



"Sediment loading from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-erosion-rates-have-exploded-in-the-midwestern-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil erosion</a> increased the water’s density, amplifying the flood’s destructive power. This led to widespread infrastructure failure in Derna, where 66% of the city’s urban area sustained moderate-to-high damage," explained Normand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-case-study-the-fallout-of-storm-daniel">Case study: the fallout of storm Daniel</h2>



Using advanced radar technology, the research team analyzed the changes in surface texture before and after the storm. This data allowed them to map erosion and assess the extent of the damage. 



"The flow was heavily loaded with eroded soil, which increased the destructive nature of the floods and contributed to the collapse of the dams," said Heggy.



"Current runoff models fail to account for the full impact of surface erosion in deserts. But radar satellites overcome this limitation. Improving the monitoring of arid watersheds using these technologies will be critical to mitigating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/as-flood-risks-increase-worldwide-who-is-prepared/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood risks</a> across the Sahara, the Arabian Peninsula, and other desert regions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-desert-disasters">Preventing desert disasters</h2>



Normand emphasized the need for better technological resources to study desert dynamics.



"You can post on social media from the middle of a desert thanks to hundreds of communication satellites, but we still don’t have enough satellites to fully understand Earth’s surface processes in deserts," said Normand. 



The research team warned that the situation seen in Libya could easily happen again in other populous areas of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.



"The deadliest enemy is our own belief that these extreme events are rare and won’t repeat," said Heggy. "Climate models tell us they will come back stronger. Policymakers in the region need to listen to the science before it's too late."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-implications-of-desert-flooding">Global implications of desert flooding</h2>



While the Middle East and North Africa face the immediate threat of desert floods, the implications of these extreme weather events extend far beyond the region. 



Climate scientists warn that similar patterns of desertification, soil erosion, and unpredictable rainstorms are becoming more prevalent in other arid regions across the globe, from the southwestern United States to parts of Central Asia. 



As these regions become more vulnerable, the risks to human life, infrastructure, and agriculture grow exponentially. In particular, the combination of desertification and flooding could have a profound impact on global food security.



Arid regions often rely on limited but crucial agricultural zones that are susceptible to erosion and flood damage. 



As storms intensify and soil stability decreases, these agricultural areas could become less productive, exacerbating existing challenges related to water scarcity and food supply.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-re-evaluating-the-flood-potential-of-deserts">Re-evaluating the flood potential of deserts </h2>



Understanding the mechanisms behind desert floods is not just a local concern but a global priority. 



Desert environments worldwide must be re-evaluated for their flood risk potential, and proactive measures should be taken to safeguard vulnerable communities and ecosystems.



The tragic floods in Libya serve as a stark reminder that these extreme weather events are no longer isolated incidents, but part of a growing pattern of climate-related disasters that could affect arid regions globally.



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Floods are becoming more deadly in the desert

Desert regions may seem synonymous with drought - where dry,...

Islands, with their limited resources yet reduced competition, create a milieu of unique survival challenges. Isolated from their mainland brethren, island-dwelling animals adapt in fascinating ways to squeeze out a living.&nbsp;



These evolutionary adaptations can range from changes in physical size, termed as island dwarfism or gigantism, to alterations in behaviors and metabolic rates. 



But what happens when these slow-paced island inhabitants encounter rapid, human-induced changes?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-island-vs-mainland-animals">Island vs mainland animals</h2>



The scientific community, till now, didn't have much clarity about how the metabolic rates of island <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/island-bird-communities-are-changing-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> differ from those on the mainland.



Dr. Roberto Rozzi of <a href="https://www.uni-halle.de/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg</a>, along with his team of researchers from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> and the <a href="https://ic.sicau.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sichuan Agricultural University</a>, aimed to fill this knowledge gap. 



Through a comprehensive analysis of data from 2,813 vertebrate species, encompassing both warm-blooded creatures like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> and mammals and cold-blooded ones such as reptiles and amphibians, they made some intriguing observations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slow-pace-of-island-life">Slow pace of island life</h2>



After sifting through the data, it appeared that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-life-on-islands-loses-diversity-when-humans-arrive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> and mammals living on islands tend to have slower metabolism than their counterparts on the mainland.&nbsp;



This slow pace extends to their reproductive cycles too, with these animals producing offspring at a later stage.&nbsp;



According to Rozzi, these adaptations are all about maximizing chances of survival and reproduction in island environments, where resources can be limited.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-achilles-heel-of-island-animals">Achilles heel of island animals</h2>



This slow pace of life, while beneficial in untouched island <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-birds-are-at-great-risk-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>, becomes a vulnerability when faced with rapid changes -- mainly those induced by human activities. 



Island dwellers already stand out due to their unique sizes, but their slow metabolism and delayed reproduction make them particularly susceptible to external threats.&nbsp;



They become easy targets for non-native predators, including humans, and struggle to recover swiftly from environmental disturbances such as invasive species introduction or habitat loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-island-species">Saving island species</h2>



The findings from this study are crucial in identifying and protecting vulnerable island <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-birds-use-sophisticated-thermoregulation-strategies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>.&nbsp;



Taking cue from Rozzi's conclusion, conservation efforts should consider the unique physiological differences between these animals and their mainland counterparts, and not just their peculiar sizes.&nbsp;



The secret to their survival lies in understanding their slower pace of life and factoring that into their protection measures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-climate-change">Role of climate change</h2>



Climate change poses an additional layer of threat to island ecosystems, exacerbating the challenges faced by their inhabitants.&nbsp;



Rising sea levels, shifting weather patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events can drastically alter the delicate balance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-100-bird-species-have-been-lost-for-over-a-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">isolated environments</a>.&nbsp;



For instance, saltwater intrusion into freshwater habitats can lead to profound ecological shifts, while changes in temperature may disrupt breeding and feeding patterns of native species.&nbsp;



The interplay between these climate-driven changes and the unique adaptations of island fauna must be closely examined to better forecast potential impacts and devise effective conservation strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-research-on-island-animal-conservation">Bridging research on island animal conservation</h2>



Turning scientific discoveries into effective conservation strategies is all about teamwork. It takes researchers, policymakers, and local communities working hand in hand. 



When we engage island communities in these efforts, we not only create a sense of ownership but also weave in their traditional ecological knowledge with modern practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-funding-insights">Funding insights</h2>



By bringing together experts from various fields like ecology, climate science, and social science, we can tackle the tough challenges that island ecosystems face. 



Bridging the gap between research and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-birds-can-handle-climate-variability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> allows us to develop thoughtful, culturally sensitive ways to protect these unique wildlife populations and their habitats for future generations. Let's work together to make a difference.



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



"In order to better protect the remaining island species, conservation efforts would benefit from taking into account the unique morphological and physiological differences between these animals and their mainland counterparts," concludes Rozzi.



In a nutshell, the slow pace of island life, once an evolutionary advantage, is now a vulnerability in the face of rapid, human-induced changes.



-----



This important research was facilitated by funds from the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation), the Scientific Research Foundation, and National Natural Science Foundation in China.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adm8240" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Slower pace of 'island life' is as true for animals as it is for humans

Islands, with their limited resources yet reduced competition, create a...

Environmental scientists have stumbled upon a concerning pattern. They have observed that grey reef sharks, typically the loyal residents of coral reefs, are skipping town more frequently and for longer periods. The culprit? Our steadily warming oceans.



The study starts with the ingenious pairing of acoustic receivers on the seabed and satellite remote sensing. 



This dynamic duo has opened up new vistas to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shark-diversity-hits-66-million-year-low/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understand shark behavior</a>, particularly during times of high environmental stress. And the sharks are giving us a run for our money as they move from their warm reef habitats to cooler, deeper waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-el-nino-effect">El Niño effect</h2>



The shockwaves of El Niño 2015-2016 are still reverberating, with our grey reef sharks showing behavioral shifts, including lower residency on the reefs up to 16 months after periods of extreme warming.



With forecast models predicting annual bleaching events by 2043, the sharks' decision to seek a retreat spells trouble.



The international team of scientists from <a href="https://www.lancaster.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lancaster University</a> and ZSL monitored shark movements in the Indian Ocean from 2013 to 2020.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-movement-of-reef-sharks-in-a-warming-world">Movement of reef sharks in a warming world</h2>



Dr. David Jacoby, the principal investigator on the project, elaborated on the findings and their implications for the reef <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-sharks-survived-a-drastic-spike-in-global-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a>.



“These results provide some of the first evidence of how reefs change in response to environmental stress, something that is becoming both more extreme and more frequent, is affecting the movement of sharks,” said Dr. Jacoby. 



“Grey reef sharks are a common, resident predator to the reefs of the Indo-Pacific, venturing away from the reef to feed, but many are having to decide whether to escape the stressed reefs.



Faced with a trade-off, sharks must decide whether to leave the relative safety of the reef and expend greater energy to remain cool or stay on a reef in suboptimal conditions but conserve energy, noted Dr. Jacoby.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-of-grey-reef-sharks">Ecological role of grey reef sharks</h2>



According to Dr. Michael Williamson from ZSL's Institute of Zoology, grey reef sharks are not just inhabitants but vital cogs in the reef ecosystems.



Their movements encode a complex dance between food, safety, and environmental conditions. Absent their nutrient influx from deeper waters, the reef's resilience to environmental stress may be at stake.



But it’s not all doom and gloom. Interestingly, not all the monitored locations saw a decline in habitat use. In fact, certain reefs showed increased shark residency, suggesting that some reefs are more resilient to stress. 



This raises intriguing questions about the factors influencing shark movement decisions, and the specific characteristics of resilient reefs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-domino-effect-of-climate-change">Domino effect of climate change </h2>



The conclusion? As climate change flings us into an era of increasing uncertainty and extreme stress events, the ecological role of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepwater-desperation-the-race-to-save-sharks-and-rays/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> on coral reefs is likely to change. 



The ripple effects of their absence will extend further than we can predict, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of species and trophic interactions that occur on coral reefs.



Climate change is a Pandora’s box, and we’ve only just lifted the lid. As we brace for an unpredictable future, characterized by more frequent and extreme stress events, research like this becomes paramount. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-grey-reef-sharks">Conservation of grey reef sharks</h2>



Conserving grey reef sharks and their habitats requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses science, policy, and community engagement. 



Marine protected areas (MPAs) represent one of the most effective strategies to safeguard these critical habitats, allowing shark populations to thrive amidst the pressures of climate change. 



Collaborative efforts among governments, local communities, and NGOs can foster sustainable fishing practices that minimize bycatch and enhance reef health. 



Furthermore, public awareness campaigns are essential in educating communities about the ecological significance of sharks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-a-connected-web-of-life">Protecting a connected web of life</h2>



“Recent research in the Chagos Archipelago, where we conducted our study, has shown that those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-barrier-reef-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reefs</a> that have greater nutrient flows from seabirds have significantly enhanced fish biomass and therefore a higher likelihood to be resilient to multiple stressors,” said Dr Wiliamson. 



“Some of our receivers that were seeing a greater number of sharks residing were also near islands with seabird populations.” As the environmental stress equation becomes increasingly complex, so does our understanding and approach to protecting the invisibly connected web of life below the ocean surface. Grey reef sharks are changing their rhythm, and offering us a chance to change ours.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-06707-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a>.



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Reef sharks are abandoning their homes due to ocean warming

Environmental scientists have stumbled upon a concerning pattern. They have...

As humans, we often find ourselves navigating through the concrete jungles of our cities, an ecosystem teeming with life and, sadly, litter. 



Among the cans, wrappers, and discarded masks, one particular item stands out, swirling in the urban breeze or ensnared in the skeletal grip of a leafless tree - the ubiquitous plastic bag, now banned in many states.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battle-against-plastic">Battle against plastic</h2>



For many of us, plastic bags have become so ingrained in our daily routines that their environmental impact often slips our conscious thought. 



However, the scene is changing, and it's not by chance. Across the United States, a joint effort is underway to reduce - and hopefully eradicate - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-production-increases-create-identical-plastic-pollution-increase/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">these pesky pollutants</a>.



This is not just about cleaner streets but healthier beaches, waterways teeming with life, and brighter prospects for marine ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-statewide-plastic-bans-make-their-mark">Statewide plastic bans make their mark</h2>



Statewide bans on plastic bags are helping curb <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-win-the-battle-of-planet-vs-plastic-drastic-changes-are-needed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental destruction</a>, according to a recent scientific analysis. These bans are, quite literally, paying off, and the evidence lies in the numbers.



The tale begins in the tumultuous period of the COVID-19 pandemic, when plastic bags were making an unwelcome comeback. 



Temporary suspensions of the bans led to a doubling of grocery bags collected in <a href="https://oceanconservancy.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ocean Conservancy</a>'s International Coastal Cleanup (ICC). Not our proudest moment, indeed. However, like the resilient human spirit, the situation took a turn for the better in 2020.



Today, with approximately one-quarter of the US population under statewide bans, there's been a marked decrease - 29 percent, to be precise - in the number of bags collected per volunteer. These stats date from 2022-23, compared to the pre-pandemic era (2013-2019).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-california-takes-the-lead-in-banning-plastic">California takes the lead in banning plastic</h2>



But who kickstarted this chain reaction? California was the pioneer, being the first of eleven states to implement a plastic bag ban back in 2015.



"Plastic bags are well-known to be one of the most deadly types of plastic pollution in our oceans," said Anja Brandon, Ocean Conservancy's director of plastics policy.



Brandon, an environmental engineer, has been instrumental in drafting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/norways-battle-against-plastic-pollution-represents-a-global-plague/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">state</a> and national legislation on plastic pollution. 



"We were really excited to see that with the increase in percentage of Americans who are covered by a strong plastic bag ban, we see less plastic bag pollution within our ICC dataset," she added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treasure-trove-of-data">Treasure trove of data</h2>



The dataset Brandon refers to comes from the ICC, an event that began in 1986. It's supplemented by voluntary cleanup efforts documented via the Clean Swell app or data sheets, all feeding into Ocean Conservancy's marine litter database. 



This is the largest of its kind, a treasure trove of information influencing scientists, conservationists, and policymakers. In fact, it's played a role in shaping legislation in states like California and Florida.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-states-are-dependent-on-a-clean-coast">Many states are dependent on a clean coast</h2>



Christy Leavitt, plastics campaign director at <a href="https://oceana.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oceana</a>. said that California’s move to ban thick single-use plastic bags at grocery store checkouts is a win for our coasts and communities.



“Plastic bags are one of the deadliest types of plastic to ocean wildlife. Not only is plastic tarnishing California’s beaches, but it’s in our food, air, water, and even our bodies.”&nbsp;



Levitt noted that, with an ocean-based economy valued at $45 billion annually, California is dependent on a clean coast.&nbsp;



“California has been a leader in tackling the plastic pollution crisis and strengthening the state’s plastic bag ban is another important step forward. Governor Newsom should swiftly sign this bill into law, and the state legislature should continue to act on plastic,” added Levitt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-price-tag-of-convenience">Hidden price tag of convenience</h2>



Why is a plastic bag such a big concern? Let's consider a turtle in the wild. This peaceful creature may mistake a drifting plastic bag for a tasty jellyfish treat. 



"Once they're ingested, they can bunch up and coil inside the stomach or intestines on an animal," explained Brandon. This leads to a myriad of health problems, including inability to feed, blockages, and even changes to buoyancy, impairing the turtle's ability to dive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-need-to-ban-plastic">Global need to ban plastic</h2>



It is essential to understand that this isn't a regional problem. We're grappling with a global quandary. "Every year, 11 million metric tons of plastic enter our oceans - that's over a&nbsp;garbage truck&nbsp;of plastic every single minute," said Brandon.



"I think it's a great reminder that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">systemic challenges of&nbsp;plastic&nbsp;pollutio</a>n are not going to solve themselves - we need strong, effective policy interventions, we know what those are, we have the data to support them, we just need more of them."



The upcoming UN plastic treaty talks in South Korea offer a platform to escalate this dialogue towards global solutions and commitments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promoting-plastic-bans">Promoting plastic bans</h2>



We all have a stake in this narrative. The ICC encourages us to play our part in reducing plastic pollution. By participating, we contribute not just to a cleaner environment, but also help gather data that informs vital policies.



So, next time you're about to reach for a plastic bag at your local store, hold back. This small act can make a tangible difference in the health of our oceans and the vibrant life they sustain.



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Plastic bag bans have drastically reduced ocean pollution

As humans, we often find ourselves navigating through the concrete...

The impact of urbanization on temperature is well-documented. Cities tend to be warmer than surrounding rural areas, a phenomenon known as the urban heat island effect.&nbsp;



However, fewer people are aware that urbanization also influences rainfall patterns, creating what is called the urban precipitation anomaly, where urban development significantly alters the amount of rain an area receives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainfall-in-cities-worldwide-nbsp">Rainfall in cities worldwide&nbsp;</h2>



In a new study published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2311496121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, researchers from the <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas at Austin</a> examined rainfall patterns in 1,056 cities worldwide and discovered that over 60% of these cities receive more rainfall than their surrounding rural regions.&nbsp;



In some instances, the difference is substantial. For example, Houston typically gets nearly five inches more rain annually than the surrounding rural areas.



These findings could have serious consequences, particularly with regard to worsening flash <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-ways-to-prevent-flooding-caused-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a> in densely urbanized regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-rainfall-anomalies-on-a-global-scale">Urban rainfall anomalies on a global scale</h2>



Scientists have known about variations in urban rainfall for decades, but this study is the first to examine the phenomenon on a global scale. Previous research primarily focused on specific cities or isolated storm events, according to study author Xinxin Sui, a PhD student at the Cockrell School of Engineering.&nbsp;



In this study, Sui and her colleagues analyzed satellite and radar precipitation datasets, examining daily rainfall anomalies in these 1,056 cities from 2001 to 2020.



“In general, we found that over 60% of these global cities have more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> (than the surrounding countryside),” Sui said. “Then we compared with different climate zones and found that if the local climate is hotter, if it’s wetter, then it may have a larger rainfall anomaly compared to the cities in cooler and dryer places.”



In addition to Houston, other major cities with significant precipitation anomalies include Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Lagos in Nigeria, and the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metro area in the U.S.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cities-redistribute-water-like-sponges">Cities redistribute water like sponges</h2>



Study co-author Dev Niyogi, a professor at the Jackson School of Geosciences and the Cockrell School of Engineering, explained that urban environments act like sponges, redistributing rain from one area to another.&nbsp;



Niyogi compared this to squeezing a sponge: “If you were to pinch one part of the sponge, you would have water coming down more forcefully from one side,” he said.&nbsp;



“The amount of water you have in the sponge is the same, but because now you have that dynamic sort of squeezing the atmosphere, you have more ability to take the water out from that location.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cities-located-in-valleys-get-less-rainfall">Cities located in valleys get less rainfall</h2>



Interestingly, while most cities receive more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> than rural areas, a few urban regions receive less. This tends to occur in cities located in valleys or lowlands where nearby mountains influence precipitation patterns. 



Cities like Seattle in Washington, Kyoto in Japan, and Jakarta in Indonesia experience this effect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-contributing-to-urban-rainfall0">Factors contributing to urban rainfall0</h2>



Several factors contribute to why most cities see increased rainfall. According to study co-author Liang Yang, a professor at the Jackson School, one key factor is the presence of tall buildings, which can block or slow <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-method-developed-to-measure-the-wind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wind</a> speeds, causing air to converge toward the city center.&nbsp;



“The buildings further enhance this convergence by slowing the winds, resulting in a stronger upward motion of air. This upward motion promotes the condensation of water vapor and cloud formation, which are critical conditions for producing rainfall and precipitation,” Yang explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-larger-populations-drive-urban-rainfall">Larger populations drive urban rainfall</h2>



The study also found that population size had the strongest correlation with urban rainfall anomalies compared to other factors related to the environment or urbanization.&nbsp;



Larger populations typically result in denser, taller cities, which generate more greenhouse gas emissions and heat, further intensifying the precipitation anomaly, according to Niyogi.



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



As climate change accelerates, these findings have important implications for urban areas. Yang highlighted how the combination of increased rainfall in cities and the impervious surfaces characteristic of urban environments - such as concrete and asphalt - can create conditions ripe for flash flooding.



“Combining these two factors means we must develop innovative ways to prepare for flash flooding,” Yang said.



In light of the increasing risks, urban planners and policymakers will need to address the growing likelihood of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a>, ensuring that cities are better prepared to handle both excess rainfall and the infrastructure challenges it presents.



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Cities experience more rainfall than surrounding areas

The impact of urbanization on temperature is well-documented. Cities tend...

A new study reveals that it may be possible to detect major earthquakes several days, or even months, before they strike. The research could ultimately revolutionize earthquake preparedness and response strategies.



A team of researchers led by Professor Társilo Girona of the <a href="https://www.gi.alaska.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UAF Geophysical Institute</a> has developed an innovative approach to earthquake prediction. The detection method utilizes advanced technology to monitor subtle seismic shifts that often precede significant tremors.



"Unraveling the precursory signals of potentially destructive earthquakes is crucial to understand the Earth’s crust dynamics and to provide reliable seismic warnings," noted the researchers.



"Earthquake precursors are ambiguous, but recent experimental studies suggest that robust warning signs may precede large seismic events in the short (day-to-months) term."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-machine-learning-can-detect-earthquake-precursors">Machine learning can detect earthquake precursors</h2>



By detecting low-level tectonic unrest over large areas, the scientists aim to provide earlier and more accurate predictions of when and where major earthquakes might occur.



The research is a convergence of seismic activity studies and machine learning, specifically focusing on earthquake precursors. The UAF team collaborated with geologist Kyriaki Drymoni from <a href="https://www.lmu.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität</a> in Munich, Germany.



"Our paper demonstrates that advanced statistical techniques, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-may-help-with-earlier-tsunami-detection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">machine learning</a>, have the potential to identify precursors to large-magnitude earthquakes by analyzing datasets derived from earthquake catalogs," said Professor Girona.



The researchers developed a computer algorithm to scan data for abnormal seismic activity, identifying meaningful patterns that could indicate an impending earthquake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-case-studies-from-alaska-and-california">Case studies from Alaska and California</h2>



Girona and Drymoni focused on two major earthquakes: the 2018 Anchorage earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 and the 2019 earthquake sequence in Ridgecrest, California, which ranged from magnitudes 6.4 to 7.1.



The experts discovered that both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-map-shows-75-percent-of-the-u-s-at-risk-of-damaging-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic</a> shocks were preceded by approximately three months of unusual, low-magnitude regional seismicity. This activity spanned about 15 to 25 percent of Southcentral Alaska and Southern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-1000-shallow-earthquakes-detected-in-california/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California</a> leading up to each earthquake.



The Anchorage earthquake, which struck on November 30, 2018 at 8:29 a.m., caused significant damage to roads, highways, and buildings.



The researchers found that the probability of a major earthquake occurring within 30 days increased sharply to about 80 percent around three months before the quake.



This likelihood rose to approximately 85 percent just a few days before the event. Similar patterns were observed for the Ridgecrest earthquake sequence, beginning about 40 days before the first quake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precursor-activity-and-geological-causes">Precursor activity and geological causes</h2>



Much of the unrest preceding these major earthquakes was detected as seismic activity with magnitudes lower than 1.5. 



Girona and Drymoni propose that the low-magnitude precursor activity could be due to a significant increase in pore fluid pressure within a fault.



"Increased pore fluid pressure in faults that lead to major earthquakes changes the faults' mechanical properties, which in turn leads to uneven variations in the regional stress field," explained Drymoni. "We propose that these uneven variations control the abnormal, precursory low-magnitude seismicity."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advances-in-earthquake-research">Advances in earthquake research</h2>



The study demonstrates that machine learning is enabling significant advances in earthquake research. "Modern seismic networks produce enormous datasets that, when properly analyzed, can offer valuable insights into the precursors of seismic events," noted Professor Girona.



"This is where advancements in machine learning and high-performance computing can play a transformative role, enabling researchers to identify meaningful patterns that could signal an impending earthquake."



However, the researchers caution against immediately deploying their algorithm in a new region without adequate training grounded in the historical seismicity of the area. 



The experts emphasize the importance of testing the method in near-real-time scenarios to identify and address potential forecasting challenges.



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



The ability to produce dependable earthquake <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-tremors-can-now-be-detected-to-forecast-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forecasts</a> carries profound implications for public safety, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-disasters-are-on-the-rise-but-hazard-plans-are-inadequate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disaster preparedness</a>, and economic stability.



"Accurate forecasting has the potential to save lives and reduce economic losses by providing early warnings that allow for timely evacuations and preparation," said Girona. "However, the uncertainty inherent in earthquake forecasting also raises significant ethical and practical questions." 



"False alarms can lead to unnecessary panic, economic disruption, and a loss of public trust, while missed predictions can have catastrophic consequences."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51596-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Can we detect major earthquakes months in advance?

A new study reveals that it may be possible to...

It's time we tackle the elephant in the room - greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Sure, we've heard these terms tossed around in the news, environmental forums, and even in our daily conversations, but have we ever taken a moment to ponder over its association with something as common as the food on our plates, specifically beef?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emissions-from-the-beef-industry">Emissions from the beef industry</h2>



A significant chunk of the blame for increasing greenhouse gas emissions since the mid-20th century falls on human activities, with agriculture being a major contributor. 



In fact, did you know just the US beef industry is responsible for a startling 3.3% of the nation's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-records-shatter-2024-set-to-be-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">total emissions</a>? 



Although there have been noteworthy reduction efforts and advancements over the last half-century, the intricately-woven supply chain poses a monumental hurdle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-beef-emissions">Impact of beef emissions</h2>



In a fresh wave of research detailed in the journal Nature Food, scientists from the University of Minnesota's Institute on the Environment (<a href="https://environment.umn.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IonE</a>) and The Nature Conservancy have proposed effective measures that the U.S. beef industry could take to cut down greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> by a whopping 30 percent.



Study lead author Rylie Pelton and her team conducted the first-ever county-level, location-specific assessment of the environmental impact of the beef industry.



This meticulous approach has unveiled geographic emission hotspots scattered along the supply chain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-down-the-beefy-facts">Breaking down the beefy facts</h2>



Take a look at the staggering findings:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The US beef industry alone propels approximately 258 million metric tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere annually.</li>



<li>Emissions from feed production - specifically beef sourcing and confinement like feedlots - are primarily concentrated in the Midwest and the Great Plains. On the other hand, emissions from grazing seem to be quite evenly scattered across the West.</li>



<li>The silver lining? Nearly one-third of these emissions could be controlled through the integration of alternative practices in grazing, feed production, confinement, and processing. The researchers investigated 42 such alternative strategies, which include innovative methods like cover cropping, feed additives, and energy management.</li>
</ul>



"The beef supply chain is one of the country's most intricate food production systems, making it difficult for beef processors to identify opportunities for reducing their emissions," said Pelton. 



"Our highly-tailored assessment offers distinct recommendations for different parts of the country, including concrete steps the beef industry can take to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and increase the carbon sequestration in soils and working lands."



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



As we navigate the complex web of the beef supply chain, it becomes essential to not only identify solutions but also to map out clear pathways for implementation.



Stakeholder engagement is crucial; from farmers and ranchers to industry leaders and policymakers, collective action can drive meaningful change. Educational initiatives and workshops can empower producers with the knowledge and tools needed to embrace these sustainable practices. 



Furthermore, financial incentives can act as a catalyst, encouraging the adoption of alternative practices that are both environmentally beneficial and economically viable. In this way, we can leverage both the scientific findings and the long-standing traditions of farming to forge a more sustainable future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-charting-a-sustainable-course">Charting a sustainable course</h2>



Identifying immediate, feasible actions that the beef industry can take to start reducing their emissions is crucial. 



For instance, Pelton and her team have found a significant opportunity to store more carbon in grazing areas by adding trees to pasturelands in the Southeast. In contrast, mending degraded wetland areas in the Northern Great Plains could yield similar results.



"Sustainability needs to be business-as-usual in the U.S. beef industry to ensure stable, long-term food production and economic security for ranchers and their communities as well as a healthy environment for us all," said Kris Johnson, director of The Nature Conservancy's North America Agriculture program.



"This research helps the industry and other decisionmakers identify actionable steps to achieve climate targets while delivering a product that meets consumer expectations."



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



The study isn't just a road map for the beef industry emissions; it's a call-to-action for everyone involved in the decision-making process, helping them identify <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frankenfood-beef-grown-inside-rice-cells-that-is-tasty-healthy-and-affordable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">actionable steps</a> to hit their climate targets while delivering a product that aligns with consumer expectations.



"These are our first published results that feature location-specific data on emissions in the animal stage of the supply chain," said study co-author Jennifer Schmitt.



"We are excited to share how our model can bring increased transparency to U.S. agricultural supply chains and identify steps companies and industry can take <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/python-meat-is-a-more-sustainable-food-than-chicken-or-beef/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">to reduce their carbon footprint</a>."



The next time you bite into your favorite steak, remember that we all have a role to play in steering our planet towards a healthier future. It's not about giving up on beef entirely, but about recognizing the impact of our choices and making more informed, conscious decisions. So, are you ready to chew on these food-for-thought facts and be part of the change?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-024-01031-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Food</a>.



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Beef industry can cut emissions by 30% with sustainable practices

It's time we tackle the elephant in the room -...

<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=lHHxOej4QfE
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic pollution.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invisible-threat-in-urban-air">Invisible threat in urban air</h2>



City dwellers face an unseen danger with every breath. New findings from Emory University researchers suggest that fine particulate matter from <a href="http://earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-might-increase-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicle emissions may significantly elevate the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease</a>. The study examined brain tissue samples from 224 individuals who had confirmed diagnoses and volunteered their brains for scientific research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disturbing-connections-emerge">Disturbing connections emerge</h2>



Scientists analyzed neuritic plaques — protein clusters that characterize Alzheimer's — while mapping each participant's exposure to PM2.5 particles based on residential location and surrounding traffic density. The correlation proved more alarming than anticipated. Individuals experiencing higher pollution exposure showed nearly double the likelihood of elevated plaque accumulation in brain tissue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-matters">Timing matters</h2>



The research team discovered that pollution exposure during the final year before death demonstrated the strongest association with brain changes. This timeline suggests relatively rapid impacts from environmental toxins on neural health. The connection remained robust even after accounting for various demographic and health factors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-vulnerability-patterns">Genetic vulnerability patterns</h2>



Perhaps most concerning, people lacking the APOE gene—which naturally predisposes individuals to Alzheimer's — exhibited more than twice the susceptibility to pollution-related brain damage. Study author Dr. Anke Huels noted this indicates environmental elements like air contamination could trigger the disease in cases where hereditary factors don't explain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-implications">Public health implications</h2>



These findings, published in <a href="https://www.neurology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a>, underscore the critical importance of air quality regulations in urban planning. The research suggests that implementing stricter emission controls and promoting alternative transportation could serve as powerful tools in Alzheimer's prevention.



As cities worldwide grapple with growing traffic congestion and aging populations, this study highlights an urgent need for comprehensive approaches to environmental health that protect both our lungs and our minds.



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHHxOej4QfE Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic...

<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=K0DuSr87SHY
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-earth-became-a-frozen-wasteland">When Earth became a frozen wasteland</h2>



Imagine Earth as a giant snowball, frozen solid from the North Pole to the equator. This wasn't the plot of a science fiction movie – it was our planet's reality 700 million years ago during an extreme ice age that has puzzled scientists for decades.



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



Australian researchers from the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a> have finally cracked one of geology's greatest mysteries: what caused the Sturtian glaciation and why it persisted for an unprecedented 57 million years. This period occurred long before dinosaurs roamed the Earth, when no complex plants or multicellular animals existed.



Dr. Adriana Dutkiewicz, the study's lead author, describes a world completely unlike today's climate. "Imagine the Earth almost completely frozen over," she explained. "The planet was blanketed in ice from poles to equator, and temperatures plunged."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-combination-of-climate-factors">The combination of climate factors</h2>



The research team discovered that this massive freeze resulted from a "double whammy" of geological events. First, plate tectonic activity reduced volcanic carbon dioxide emissions to historically low levels. Volcanic activity typically releases CO2 into the atmosphere, creating a greenhouse effect that keeps Earth warm.



Simultaneously, weathering of volcanic rocks in what is now Canada actively absorbed atmospheric CO2, further reducing greenhouse gas concentrations. When atmospheric carbon dioxide levels dropped below 200 parts per million – less than half of today's levels – glaciation engulfed the entire planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-climate-implications">Modern climate implications</h2>



Published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/geology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a>, this research provides crucial insights into Earth's climate system. While geological climate changes occur over millions of years, the study emphasizes that human-induced climate change is happening at a pace ten times faster than previously observed natural changes, highlighting the urgent need to understand our planet's delicate climate balance.



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0DuSr87SHY 57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists....

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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...

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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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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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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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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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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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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Tracking changes in Earth's water cycle

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Mysterious "spoke season" captured on Saturn

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

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